What is the best way to travel through Metro D.C. area to avoid traffic on Friday evening [going to So. Va]

Question

The family is heading to Florida...I expect to be in Baltimore around 5:30 or so on a Friday and then heading south to southern Virginia...DC traffic, like NYC traffic, is legendary, so what is the best way to get through the area. Any good traffic reports? I will be in an HOV. Who is the traffic guru to give me the best advice?!?!

Answer 1

You have a choice out of Baltimore - I-95 or the Baltimore Washington Parkway.  It depends where your starting point is, but I prefer the BW Parkway as you avoid the Beltway.  I would take the BW Parkway to DC 295 which would bring you right to the Wilson Bridge and should only take an hour or so. Then, over the bridge your only choice is I-95 unless you are going to SW Virginia.  Before you take off, check out MD DOT's CHART website for traffic conditions and to help with the I-95 or BW Parkway choice. Along the way, listen to WTOP (103.5 FM and 820 AM) as they have the best DC traffic info.  In VA, you can call 511 as well to hear what is happening.