The Ultimate Guide to Driving from Buffalo to Amherst

Buffalo, New York is a vibrant and historical city known for its delicious chicken wings and charming neighborhoods. However, sometimes you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a drive to a nearby town like Amherst. In this guide, we'll explore the different routes you can take and give you a rough estimate of how long it'll take you to get there.

The Fastest Route

If speed is your top priority, then you should take the I-290 E. This route is only 8.2 miles and should take you about 15 minutes to complete under normal traffic conditions. This route is perfect if you're in a hurry or if you're running late for an appointment. However, be aware that the I-290 E can get pretty congested during peak traffic hours, so it's best to avoid this route during rush hour.

The Scenic Route

If you're looking for something picturesque and a little more leisurely, then the NY-5 E is the route for you. This route is about 10.2 miles and should take you about 20 minutes to complete under normal traffic conditions. This is a great route to take if you want to enjoy some beautiful scenery while taking your time getting to Amherst.

The Long Route

If you don't mind a long drive, then you can take the Kensington Avenue route. This route is approximately 11.1 miles and should take you about 25-30 minutes to complete under normal traffic conditions. This route is usually the least congested and is perfect if you want to avoid the highway and enjoy some peaceful scenery.

Traffic Patterns

If you want to time your drive to avoid traffic, then it's best to avoid peak rush-hour times. Morning traffic usually starts around 7:30 and lasts until about 9:00. Evening traffic starts around 4:30 and lasts until 6:00. During peak traffic times, the I-290 E route can take up to 30 minutes to complete, while the NY-5 E and Kensington Avenue routes can take up to 40 minutes. During off-peak times, the I-290 E route should only take about 10-15 minutes, while the NY-5 E and Kensington Avenue routes should only take about 20-25 minutes.

Driving from Buffalo to Amherst is a fast and easy trip that should take you no more than 30 minutes under normal traffic conditions. However, it's always best to plan your trip ahead of time and choose the best route based on your priorities and traffic patterns. Safe travels!