Traffic around DC
 

I regularly travel from New Jersey to North Carolina and the traffic jams on I-95 in the Washington,DC area can add up to 3 hours to the trip.

Does anyone have any tips for either the best time of day to miss this traffic or for alternate routes around DC.

Thanks.

After crossing Delaware Memorial Bridge, I often take US-301, rejoining I-95 down near Fredericksburg VA.

Thanks. I had seen that on the map.

What kind of road is that in comparison to I-95.

Most of it is 55mph. There will be some towns with lower speed limits and traffic lights ... especially around Waldorf MD ... but I'd rather put up with that than "multi-lane parking lots" and all the aggravation of things like the jerks who try to pass all the stopped traffic on the shoulder then merge back in. I also enjoy the nostalgic feel of using the primary NS route prior to the Interstate age.

I make 3 r/t a year from s.jersey to fla and i never take 95 due to the traffic around balt,and wash.i take the cape may lewis ferry to g=rt 13 south across the bay bridge,then hook up on rt 17 s. this is a wonderful drive through eastern maryland,and va. the bay bridge/tunnel all 18 miles is fantastic taking you into the norfolk little creek area. once on 17s you get to drive through the "dismil swamp" section of northern n.carolina. parts of this area reminds me of how the rural south looked back in the late 50s..anyhow think about taking this route and soak up some of the most beautiful scenery in that part of the U.S.A.

Rt. 301 is your best bet, although the Eastern Shore route is much longer and is more pleasant if you have plenty of time (but I'm assuming you want the quickest way).

You'll want to avoid the stretch of 301 in MD where it joins with Rt. 5 down to Walforf during weekday rush hour. Specifically 6:30-9am northbound and 4-7pm southbound.

Rt. 301 mostly moves at 55MPH, though there are traffic lights (especially in Waldorf). Still quicker than the Beltway.

Take the Baltimore Beltway, Route 695, toward the Key Bridge and Glen Burnie. After the Key Bridge, take Route 97 South towards Annapolis and Route 50. When you hit Route 50, take it west towards Bowie. Near Bowie, take Route 301 South. Twenty-five miles south of Bowie you'll have about ten lights to go through in one of the ugliest cities in exurbia, Waldorf, but it is better than inching through Washington Metro traffic. If you love fast food or chain restaurants, you'll be in second heaven in Waldrof.

Thanks to all of you. I feel a little less like a hostage to I-95.

Sydney