Road Trip from Buffalo, NY to Sims, NC: A Quick Guide

Are you looking to take a road trip from Buffalo, NY to Sims, NC? If so, you might be curious about the time it takes to drive this distance. Depending on the route you choose and the traffic patterns you encounter, the driving time can vary quite a bit. In this post, we'll break down some of the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of each, and how long you can expect the drive to take based on different traffic scenarios.

The Fastest Route: Interstates 90, 79, and 95

If you're looking to get from Buffalo to Sims as quickly as possible, your best bet is to take a route that uses the interstate highway system. Start by taking I-90 east to Syracuse, then head south on I-81 to Scranton, PA. From there, take I-84 east to Wilkes-Barre, then pick up I-81 again and continue south into Virginia. Finally, connect with I-95 and head down into North Carolina until you reach Sims.

This route covers a distance of approximately 800 miles and, under ideal conditions, can be completed in as little as 12 hours and 45 minutes. Of course, traffic patterns and road conditions can impact your driving time. During peak traffic times (such as weekday rush hours), you can expect the trip to take closer to 15 or 16 hours. However, if you can travel during off-peak times (like weekends), you may be able to shave an hour or two off your driving time.

The Scenic Route: US-15 and US-1

While the interstate route is the quickest option, it might not be the most interesting for those who want to take in the scenery along the way. If that describes you, consider taking a more meandering route that follows US-15 and US-1 through Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and North Carolina. This route will take you past charming small towns, historic landmarks, and beautiful natural attractions.

However, it's important to note that the scenic route is also a bit longer. Covering a distance of around 900 miles, it can take between 14 and 17 hours to drive. That said, the extra time might be worth it if you're looking for a more unique and memorable experience.

The Slow Road: Avoiding Highways

If you don't mind taking your time getting to Sims and want to avoid highways as much as possible, you can take a back roads route that will take you through small towns and rural areas. Starting in Buffalo, head south on NY-16 until you reach Olean. From there, take NY-417 east to I-86 (also known as the Southern Tier Expressway) and continue east until you reach Binghamton. Then, turn south on US-11 and follow it until you reach Martinsville, VA. Finally, connect with US-58 and head east until you reach Sims.

This route covers a distance of around 900 miles and, under good conditions, can take between 16 and 18 hours. However, it's important to note that this route may not be as well-maintained as highways, and it may take longer if you encounter road closures or detours.

Conclusion

Regardless of the route you choose, the drive from Buffalo to Sims can be a long one. However, with some careful planning and consideration of traffic patterns, you can make the trip as smooth and efficient as possible. If you're looking to get there quickly, stick to the interstates and try to avoid peak travel times if possible. But if you're more interested in enjoying the journey, consider taking a slower but more scenic route. Whatever you choose, happy travels!