What Is The Best Time To Drive Through Atlanta?
So what is the best time to drive through Atlanta? When I was planning a trip across the country, one of the routes I was considering took me south on I-85.
One thing Atlanta, Georgia is notorious for is it’s bad rush hour traffic. A study noted that Atlanta drivers were stuck in traffic for more than 70 hours in 2022.
While I ended up driving through Tennessee in the end, before that, I researched a lot about taking this route. Here’s what I discovered about when to drive through Atlanta.
What is the best time to drive through Atlanta?
The best time to drive through Atlanta is between 10 AM – 3 PM. Avoid rush hour, which is said to be the worst time to drive through Atlanta.
It is typically between 7 AM – 10 AM and 3 PM to 7 PM, according to most sources.
Though having said that, it’s been mentioned that it can start as early as 4 or 5 AM. A local on reddit noted it was best to arrive at the outer edges of Atlanta around 9:30 AM, near the tail end of rush hour.
While weekends may not be not so bad, Sundays are said to be less traffic than Saturdays. Avoid driving through holidays as well.
A recent news story noted traffic would be heavy during Memorial Day Weekend.
Local Conditions, 511ga, and Google Maps all provide updated traffic information.
How to Drive in Atlanta?
One surprising tip you may not be used to hearing is avoiding the far right lane.
These lanes are typically exits, and you’ll want to avoid having to waste time getting back on the highway again.
Another tip to keep in mind is to of course avoid driving during rush hour. Do your best to get in the city during late morning or early afternoon.
Otherwise it’ll be like the words of one local who said, “Atlanta is an hour drive from Atlanta.”
Takeaways
Remember, with any trip, it’s always good to plan ahead. Take a look at the highway on Google Maps to get a visual of what you’ll be seeing.
Be mindful of the exits you’ll be taking, make sure your car is filled up with gas, and drive safe.
