Fast and Fun: the Drive from Buffalo to New Rochelle

Ready for a road trip? Buffalo to New Rochelle is a classic drive through the major cities and quaint towns of Upstate New York. Whether you're looking to get there as quickly as possible or want to take in some of the beautiful scenery along the way, there are several routes to choose from. Here's what you need to know about driving from Buffalo to New Rochelle.

Route 1: I-90 E and I-87 S

The fastest way to get from Buffalo to New Rochelle is on Interstate 90 East and Interstate 87 South. This route covers a distance of approximately 330 miles and takes around five hours to drive without any stops or traffic.

If you're looking to make time, this is the way to go. The drive takes you through Rochester, Syracuse, and Albany before you hit the New York City metro area. But beware: the traffic can vary depending on the time you hit the city, so plan accordingly.

Route 2: NY-17 E and I-87 S

Another option is to take NY-17 East and then hop on to I-87 South. This route is slightly longer, at around 350 miles, but can be a more scenic drive. Along the way, you'll pass through some of the quaint towns and villages of Upstate New York such as Owego, Binghamton, and Newburgh.

While you'll encounter some traffic in the Hudson Valley and as you approach the New York City metro area, this route is usually less congested than the I-90/I-87 route.

Route 3: NY-5 E and I-87 S

If you have some extra time, NY-5 East and I-87 South might be the way to go. This route spans around 400 miles and takes around seven hours without any stops or traffic.

The drive along NY-5 takes you through the charming towns of western New York such as Batavia, Canandaigua, Geneva, and Auburn. Once you hit Albany, you can join I-87 South to complete your drive.

Stops along the Way

No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of places to stop along the way. Rochester and Syracuse are both vibrant cities with plenty of dining and entertainment options. Geneva and Canandaigua both offer picturesque Finger Lakes scenery and award-winning wineries.

As you approach the Hudson Valley, consider stopping in the charming towns of Rhinebeck or Hudson. If you're looking for a more active stop, Bear Mountain State Park offers incredible hiking trails and breathtaking views.

No matter which route or stops you choose, driving from Buffalo to New Rochelle is a great way to explore the beauty of Upstate New York while also experiencing the exciting hustle and bustle of the New York City area. Happy travels!