Driving Time between Austin, Texas and New York City, New York

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Road Trip! How Long Does it Actually Take to Drive From Austin to New York City?

Are you planning a road trip from Austin, Texas to New York City, New York? Well, let me tell you, it's a long haul! But, with proper planning, you can make the trip with ease. Let's break down the quickest routes and some things to consider before hitting the open road.

The Quickest Routes

There are a few different routes to take when driving from Austin to New York City, but the two most popular options are:

  1. Taking I-40 East through Tennessee and North Carolina.
  2. Taking I-30 East through Arkansas and then moving onto I-40 through Tennessee and North Carolina.

If you're determined to arrive in the Big Apple as quickly as possible, option 1 is your best bet. The distance between Austin and New York City is approximately 1,550 miles and it takes about 24 hours of driving time.

However, if you have some time to spare and are looking to experience some scenic detours along the way, option 2 is worth considering. This will bring you through the Ouachita Mountains, past Hot Springs National Park, and into the Great Smoky Mountains. While this route is longer - approximately 1,750 miles - it only adds about two hours to total trip time.

Traffic Patterns

When planning your drive, it's important to keep traffic patterns in mind. The most congested areas are likely going to be around major cities, such as Dallas, Memphis, and Washington D.C. If you can time your drive to avoid rush hour in these areas, you'll have a much smoother drive.

According to AAA, the busiest travel times are during Memorial Day weekend, Fourth of July weekend, and Labor Day weekend. If you can avoid traveling during these times, you'll likely experience less traffic and faster drive times.

At peak traffic times, you should expect the drive to take about 27 hours, while during low traffic times, you can make the drive in around 22 hours.

Final Thoughts

Whether you're taking a leisurely drive or in a rush to reach your destination, there are a variety of routes to take when traveling from Austin to New York City. Just remember to plan ahead, keep an eye on traffic patterns, and stay safe on the road. Happy travels!