A drive from Atlanta to Washington, D.C. is a classic American road trip, taking you through some of the most historic and beautiful scenery in the country. The journey is approximately 550 miles and can be completed in about 9 hours without stops. However, with so much to see and do along the way, you’ll want to allow yourself plenty of time to explore.
Planning Your Trip
Before you hit the road, there are a few things you’ll want to take care of:
- Choose the right time to go. The best time to drive from Atlanta to DC is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the roads are less crowded.
- Book your accommodations in advance. If you’re planning on staying overnight along the way, it’s a good idea to book your hotel or motel room in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season.
- Map out your route. There are a few different routes you can take from Atlanta to DC, so it’s a good idea to map out your route in advance. You can use a GPS device, a map app, or an online mapping service like Google Maps.
- Allow yourself plenty of time. The drive from Atlanta to DC is a long one, so it’s important to allow yourself plenty of time to complete the journey. If you’re planning on making any stops along the way, be sure to factor in the extra time it will take.
What to See and Do Along the Way
There are many things to see and do along the drive from Atlanta to DC. Here are a few of the most popular attractions:
- Stone Mountain Park. Just outside of Atlanta, Stone Mountain Park is a popular tourist destination with a variety of attractions, including a giant carving of the Confederate generals Robert E. Lee, Stonewall Jackson, and Jefferson Davis.
- Andersonville National Historic Site. This site commemorates the Andersonville Prison, which was the largest Confederate prison camp during the Civil War.
- Chattanooga. This city is home to a number of attractions, including the Tennessee Aquarium, the Hunter Museum of American Art, and the Lookout Mountain Incline Railway.
- Knoxville. This city is home to the University of Tennessee, the Knoxville Zoo, and the Sunsphere Tower.
- Bristol Motor Speedway. This race track is one of the most popular NASCAR tracks in the country.
- Roanoke. This city is home to the Virginia Museum of Transportation, the Roanoke Star, and the Mill Mountain Zoo.
- Fredericksburg. This city is home to the Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, which commemorates the Battle of Fredericksburg and the Battle of Chancellorsville.
- Arlington National Cemetery. This cemetery is the final resting place for over 400,000 American veterans.
- The White House. The official residence of the President of the United States, the White House is one of the most iconic buildings in the world.
Tips for Driving from Atlanta to DC
Here are a few tips for driving from Atlanta to DC:
- Be prepared for traffic. The drive from Atlanta to DC can be congested during peak hours, so it’s important to be prepared for traffic. Allow yourself extra time for your journey, and be patient if you encounter delays.
- Take breaks. It’s important to take breaks while driving, especially if you’re driving for long periods of time. Get out of your car and stretch your legs every few hours, and stop for a meal or a snack.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to the road and your surroundings while you’re driving. Be aware of other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists.
- Follow the rules of the road. Obey the speed limit and all other traffic laws. Be courteous to other drivers, and yield the right of way when necessary.
Cost of Driving from Atlanta to DC
The cost of driving from Atlanta to DC will vary depending on a number of factors, including the type of vehicle you drive, the price of gas, and the number of stops you make along the way. However, you can expect to pay around $100-$150 for gas and tolls.
Conclusion
Driving from Atlanta to DC is a great way to see some of the most beautiful and historic scenery in the country. With so much to see and do along the way, you’ll want to allow yourself plenty of time to explore. By following these tips, you can make your drive from Atlanta to DC a safe and enjoyable experience.