The Drive from Cary to Wilmington: How Long Does It Take?

If you're planning a road trip from Cary, North Carolina to Wilmington, North Carolina, you are in for an adventure. From picturesque countryside to stunning beaches, the drive has it all. But before you hit the road, there's one thing you need to know: how long does it actually take to get there?

The Fastest Route

If you're in a hurry, take the I-40 E route. This is the fastest way to get to Wilmington, and it's only about 136 miles. Without traffic, you can get there in as little as two hours. However, it's important to remember that you're likely to hit some traffic along the way. Even during "off" hours, you could run into delays, especially around Raleigh.

At peak traffic times, such as rush hour, you can expect the drive to take a lot longer. If you're leaving around 5 pm on a weekday, for example, you could be in the car for three or even four hours. Be sure to check traffic updates before you hit the road so you can plan your route accordingly.

The Scenic Route

While the I-40 E route is the quickest, it's not the most scenic. If you have a little more time to spare, consider taking the US-421 S route. This will add a few more miles to your journey—about 155 miles total—but it's worth it for the beautiful views along the way.

The US-421 S route will take you through the charming town of Sanford and past the stunning Jordan Lake. You'll see rolling hills and fields of farmland, and maybe even spot a few cows or horses along the way. It's a peaceful and picturesque drive that can take you around three hours, traffic permitting.

The Slowest Route

If you have no particular timeline and want to take your time enjoying the scenery, take the NC-50 S route. This route is just over 160 miles and will take you down through small town after small town. While it's not the most direct route, it's the perfect way to enjoy North Carolina's countryside and local flavor.

This route can be especially slow during peak tourist season when everyone else is also out on the road. At those times, the drive can take upwards of four hours. But if you're looking to kick back, take it slow, and enjoy the ride, this route is definitely for you.

Conclusion

In the end, how long it takes to get from Cary to Wilmington depends on a few factors. The fastest route is the I-40 E, which can take about two hours without traffic. The scenic US-421 S route takes about three hours while the slower NC-50 S route takes around four hours. Make sure you check traffic and plan your route accordingly to make the most of your road trip.