How Long Does It Take to Drive from Austin, Texas to St. Louis, Missouri?

If you're looking for an exciting road trip that takes you from the heart of Texas to the gateway of the Midwest, then you're in for an adventure. The drive from Austin, Texas, to St. Louis, Missouri, has its ups and downs, but you're in for some fabulous views along the way. However, you might be wondering how long it takes to drive from Austin to St. Louis. Well, buckle up and keep reading because we've got you covered.

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's take a look at the routes you can take. Interstate 35 (I-35) is the most direct route from Austin to St. Louis, but it's not the fastest. You can travel north on I-35, take I-44, and continue on I-70 East towards St. Louis. This particular route takes approximately 13 hours and 30 minutes, covering nearly 900 miles.

The alternative route is to travel on I-10 East towards Houston, then take I-45 North towards Dallas and Fort Worth. From there, drive on I-30 East towards Little Rock, and then take I-40 East all the way to St. Louis. This route takes around 14 hours and 45 minutes, covering over 1,000 miles. It's the longer of the two routes, but it offers more scenic views and interesting stops along the way.

Travel Time Based on Traffic

Now that you know the routes, it's essential to understand that travel time depends on traffic conditions. If you're traveling during peak hours, it'll take longer than if you were traveling during off-peak hours.

Assuming you're driving on the faster route, if you set out in the morning or late afternoon, you're more likely to clock in a lower travel time due to light traffic, and it'll be approximately 12 hours and 45 minutes. However, if you're driving during rush hour, it's best to add an extra hour to your travel time, making it around 14 hours.

On the slower but longer route, off-peak travel time would be about 14 hours, while peak travel time can be upwards of 16 hours.

Convenient Stops Along The Way

Both routes offer perfect stops where you can take a break, stretch your legs, and grab a bite to eat. Within the faster route, you can stop at Dallas or Little Rock for a meal and to explore some attractions.

If you're taking the slower but longer route, there are several places you can stop including Houston, Dallas, and Memphis. All of these cities offer several attractions ranging from music scenes, museums, and even zoos.

In Conclusion

Driving from Austin to St. Louis may take some time, but it doesn't have to be tedious. With a perfect mix of scenic views and exciting stops along the way, you'll surely have an unforgettable adventure. Plus, if you plan according to off-peak traffic schedules, you can arrive in under 13 hours. Not bad at all!