The Drive from Buffalo, New York to City of Lockport, New York: What You Need To Know

If you are planning a road trip in Western New York, you might be wondering what is the best way to get from Buffalo to Lockport. Both cities are just over 20 miles apart, but depending on the time of day and traffic patterns, the drive could take anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour or more. Below, we will explore the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each route, and the estimated driving time based on traffic conditions.

The Fastest Route

The fastest route to get from Buffalo to Lockport is via I-990 N and NY-93 N. The distance between the two cities is approximately 23.7 miles, and under normal conditions, the drive should take between 25 and 30 minutes. This route is usually the best option during rush hour since it avoids some of the busiest parts of the Buffalo area, like downtown and the I-190. However, keep in mind that morning and evening traffic patterns can vary, and delays may occur due to accidents or construction.

The Scenic Route

If you have the time for a leisurely drive, you may want to consider taking the scenic route to Lockport, which will give you a chance to see some of Western New York's beautiful countryside. To get from Buffalo to Lockport via scenic route, take US-20 E. This 28-mile drive will take you through charming small towns and past historic landmarks like the Mill District and the Erie Canal. However, keep in mind that this route is not necessarily the fastest and may take 45 minutes or more to complete.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route from Buffalo to Lockport is via NY-33 W and NY-78 N. This 29.4 miles drive can take over an hour during rush hour due to traffic congestion. If possible, avoid this route during peak driving times, as it travels through some of Buffalo's busiest areas.

The Best Time To Drive

If you want to avoid traffic, it's best to time your drive from Buffalo to Lockport during non-rush hours. For example, early morning weekdays, like before 7:00 a.m. or on weekends between 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., are typically less busy and will result in quicker drive times. During rush hour, the drive between two cities can take twice as long or even longer, depending on traffic conditions and road construction.

Conclusion

In summary, the drive from Buffalo to Lockport can take anywhere between 25 minutes to over an hour, depending on the route and traffic patterns. If you want to get to Lockport as quickly as possible, the fastest route is via I-990 N and NY-93 N. If you have more time to spend on the road, the scenic route via US-20 E is an excellent option. To avoid busy roads and potential delays, plan your drive during off-peak times. In any case, remember to take your time and enjoy the scenery as you drive from Buffalo to the City of Lockport.