Center Point, AL to St. Augustine, FL: How Long Will It Take?

Have you been dreaming of a beach getaway to St. Augustine, Florida? If you live in Center Point, Alabama, the drive can be less than 10 hours. However, the time it takes can vary depending on which route you take and the traffic patterns. So, buckle up and let's dive into the details!

The Fastest Route

If the goal is to get to St. Augustine as fast as possible, the I-85 and I-95 route is the way to go. According to Google Maps, the distance from Center Point to St. Augustine via this route is approximately 610 miles. On average, it takes about 8 hours and 30 minutes to complete the drive without stopping.

Keep in mind that traffic can impact the driving time. Rush hour in Atlanta and Jacksonville can cause delays. In addition, the stretch of I-95 that passes through South Carolina can be congested with tourist traffic during peak season. So, aiming for an early morning departure or avoiding popular tourist days can help you avoid these time-consuming backups.

The Scenic Route

If you prefer a more scenic drive, taking the I-20 and US-231 route might be more up your alley. The distance is slightly longer at approximately 670 miles, and it takes about 10 hours without stops. However, this route offers beautiful views of the Alabama countryside, as well as a chance to pass through historic towns like Montgomery and Dothan.

You should plan some extra wiggle room into your trip if you take this route, especially if you plan on stopping for photo-ops or lunch in one of the charming Southern towns along the way.

Avoiding Toll Roads

The I-85 and I-95 route has tolls along the way, which can add to the driving time and expense. If you want to avoid tolls altogether, take the I-20 and I-95 route. This route has no tolls, but it is the longest at approximately 753 miles and takes about 10 hours 30 minutes to complete.

Traffic in Jacksonville

When driving to St. Augustine, traffic in Jacksonville can be a major factor. If you plan to arrive in St. Augustine during weekday rush hour, it might be faster to take the longer I-20 and US-231 route instead of the shorter I-85 and I-95 route. Rush hour can add up to an hour or more to the drive, so plan accordingly!

Making the Most of the Trip

With a drive of over 8 hours, it's important to make the most of your trip to St. Augustine. Once you arrive, you can enjoy the historic city's many attractions, like the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum, and the beautiful beaches.

Don't forget that you can take breaks along the way, too. Why not stop by Auburn, Alabama to see the university's gorgeous campus? Or visit one of the many seafood restaurants in Jacksonville for a mid-trip meal.

Conclusion

The time it takes to drive from Center Point, Alabama to St. Augustine, Florida can vary depending on the route you take and the traffic patterns. The fastest route is the I-85 and I-95, while the more scenic route is the I-20 and US-231. If you want to avoid tolls, take the I-20 and I-95, but keep in mind it is the longest. Rush hour traffic in Jacksonville can also delay your trip, so plan accordingly. No matter which route you take, you can make the most of your trip by taking breaks along the way and enjoying all that St. Augustine has to offer.