Hello. Flying into BWI in August and staying with a friend. She lives in Mechanicsville, MD. She just moved so I am not familiar with where she lives and it's the first time flying into BWI as I usually fly into National. I will be renting a car and would like to know approx. drive time (fly in at 6:30 p.m.). I know it's south of BWI and the District. I would also like any advice on getting a car rental at BWI (good, bad, suggested agencies, etc.). Thank you in advance.

Tia

Hi again, Tia. Mapquest says the trip is about an hour and a half, which sounds right. Take 95 south, then clockwise around the Capital Beltway (95/495) to exit 7A, Maryland route 5 south. About 30 miles south from the beltway. The metro stop that you are looking for is in the area around that exit of the beltway.

Hi Tia

The easiest way to get from bWI to Mechanicsville is to get on I-97 outside BWI and follow that until you come to Rt 3 which then becomes Rt 301. I know this sounds messy but you really won't be leaving the first highway as you head south I-97 veers off toward Annapolis then Rt 3 becomes US 301 and if you stay on Rt 301 until you get to Waldorf you can then take a left onto Rt 5 and go directly to Mechanicsville.

If your friend works, she could drop you at the subway station - or you could try to get there early enough to head downtown. Most area subway parking lots fill up pretty early but there is one area you could try (works for me) "Kiss and Ride" If it's available at Branch Ave then you can generally find an hourly meter (very reasonable) and have your cake and eat it too!!

Good luck - anything else - just ask!!

Also - if you don't need the car for your entire stay -- many of the companies will allow you to drop off at DCA even if u did rent at BWI, with no drop-off charges. Check on it if that would be helpful for you.

LN directions hits it right on the spot and its about a good hour drive.