Road Trip! From (Old) Ottawa to Oneonta, New York
Are you ready for a fun-filled weekend trip from (Old) Ottawa, Ontario to Oneonta, New York? This charming city, nestled in the northern foothills of the Catskill Mountains, is just a few hours' drive from Ottawa. But with so many routes to choose from, which one is the best? Fear not, intrepid traveler – we've got you covered.
The Fastest Route
If you're in a hurry and want to get to Oneonta fast, take the route through Syracuse. From (Old) Ottawa, drive south on Highway 416 until you reach the Thousand Islands Bridge. Once you cross into the United States, take I-81 south to Syracuse, then switch to I-88 east to Oneonta. This route is about 435 km (270 miles) and should take you about 5 hours in regular traffic.
At peak traffic times, it can take longer to make your way through Syracuse, but you can still expect to complete the journey in about 6 hours. Leave early in the morning to avoid the worst of the traffic, and you'll have plenty of time to explore Oneonta when you arrive.
The Scenic Route
If you have some extra time and want to enjoy the scenery along the way, take the route through the Adirondack Mountains. From (Old) Ottawa, take Highway 417 east until you reach the Quebec border. Continue on Highway 40 east to Montreal, then take Highway 15 south to the U.S. border. After crossing into New York, take I-87 south to Albany, then switch to I-88 west to Oneonta. This route is about 575 km (357 miles) and should take you about 7 hours in regular traffic.
At peak traffic times, especially around Albany, you may need to add an extra hour to your travel time. However, the beautiful scenery of the Adirondacks more than makes up for the slightly longer journey.
The Slowest Route
If you prefer to take your time and explore some small towns along the way, consider the route through the Finger Lakes region. From (Old) Ottawa, take Highway 416 south to Highway 401. Follow 401 east to Kingston, then switch to Highway 2 east. Continue on Highway 2 until you reach Oswego, then head south on Highway 104. After passing through Auburn, take Highway 20 east to Oneonta. This route is about 620 km (385 miles) and should take you about 8 hours in regular traffic.
At peak traffic times, especially around Kingston and Syracuse, this route can take even longer. But if you're in the mood for a leisurely drive through some charming small towns, it's worth the extra time.
Final Thoughts
No matter which route you choose, remember to pack some snacks, fill up your tank, and bring some good music for the journey. And if you're planning to make any stops along the way, be sure to check out the local attractions, restaurants, and shops in each town you pass through. Happy travels!