Driving Time between Atlanta, Georgia and New Orleans, Louisiana

A picture depicting driving

Road trip from Atlanta to New Orleans: How long does it take?

Are you planning a road trip from Atlanta to New Orleans? Well, pack your bags and get ready for an exciting adventure! Before you hit the road, it’s important to know the travel time and route options. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fastest and slowest driving routes and the time it takes to drive them, based on different traffic patterns.

Fastest Driving Route

The fastest driving route from Atlanta to New Orleans is via I-85 S and I-65S. This route covers a distance of around 440 miles and takes approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes with normal traffic conditions. However, during peak hours, especially during holidays, weekends, or rush hours, the driving time might increase up to 7 hours.

Scenic Driving Route

If you’d like to enjoy a scenic drive and have some extra time, the slowest but most beautiful route is via US-278 W and US-61 S. This route is approximately 35 miles longer and covers a distance of approximately 475 miles. It usually takes around 8 hours of driving time, but you’ll enjoy the stunning views of the Mississippi River, small towns, and forests along the way!

Realistic Driving Route

If you want to balance between the fastest and most scenic routes, we recommend taking I-20 W and I-59S. This route covers a distance of around 530 miles and takes around 8 hours of driving time, on average. However, this time is subject to traffic conditions, accidents, construction on the way. Make sure to check traffic conditions through Google Maps or other traffic apps before you hit the road.

Tips for a Smooth Road Trip

  • Plan ahead: Calculate your drive time and plan accordingly. Pack enough food, snacks, and drinks for the road, and make sure your car is in good condition.
  • Take breaks: Driving for eight hours or even more can be exhausting, so plan some breaks to stretch your legs, rest, eat, or visit some attractions on the way.
  • Avoid rush hours: Make sure to avoid peak hours and rush hours whenever possible. Leaving early in the morning or late in the night, or even planning your trip on mid-weekdays can save you precious time and reduce the traffic jams.

In conclusion, there are several driving routes available from Atlanta to New Orleans, depending on your time, preferences, and traffic conditions. Whether you’re looking for a fast, scenic, or balanced trip, the journey from Atlanta to New Orleans can be exciting and memorable!