Fast and Slow Routes: Driving from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Bettendorf, Iowa

Are you planning a trip from Cedar Rapids, Iowa to Bettendorf, Iowa? Then, you must be wondering how long it will take you to get there, especially if you’re on a schedule. Luckily, there are several routes available to take for this journey, each with its own pros and cons. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the fastest and slowest routes, the distance of that route, the time it takes based on traffic patterns, and more!

The Fastest Route

The quickest route from Cedar Rapids to Bettendorf is through I-80 E. This route covers about 92 miles and takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes with average traffic. During the off-hours, this route could take you just 1 hour and 10 minutes!

The interstate 80 E route is the fastest because it usually has little to no traffic during off-peak hours. This route also passes through Iowa City, Muscatine, and the Quad Cities -- so if you need to stop for anything, be prepared to add more time to your trip.

The Slowest Route

The slowest route possible is by taking the US-30 E route. While this route only covers around 115 miles, it can take up to 2 hours and 20 minutes with medium traffic. It is slow because you will be passing through many small towns before finally getting to Bettendorf.

But the US-30 E route also has its advantages. If you're not in a hurry and you want to enjoy the scenery, take this route. It passes through towns like Tama, Marshalltown, Ames, and Nevada. Each of these towns has its unique charm, local restaurants, and tourist attractions, which you could explore if you're not in a rush.

The Best of Both Worlds

If you’re looking for a route that combines the best of both worlds (time-saving and sightseeing), then taking the I-80 E + County Road F58/Forest Grove Drive route (which is about 105 miles) could be the perfect choice. This route takes around 2 hours and 5 minutes with average traffic.

This route starts with the faster interstate road, but after passing through Walcott, you switch to county roads that pass through the rural countryside. This leads to some spot-worthy views before hitting the urban towns again before finally reaching Bettendorf.

In Conclusion

While taking the I-80 E route is generally the fastest and most direct route from Cedar Rapids to Bettendorf, it's not the only option. Depending on your unique preferences, schedule, and traveling mood, you could choose to take a different route or make use of a combination of the routes we have discussed.

If you're heading out for Bettendorf and you’re pressed for time, I-80 E is your best bet. However, if you're more of a leisure traveler, you could opt for a scenic route like US-30 E. Whatever your choice, make sure to consider your schedule and plan accordingly to avoid any unforeseen traffic or delays.