On
Jun 14, 2012
Lora from PA
Asked
Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.
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“
Andrea, how long does it take to drive from PA to WDW? We were are able to split it into 3 days for theway down @ least since I'm doing much of the driving.”
Hello, Lora!
Depending on traffic, how often you stop (and how long each stop is) you could drive to Walt Disney World from the Mideastern region of PA in about 18 hours. We, however, have never done that! We liked to stop overnight when driving to and from WDW, and, since you have three days to do so, this will be no problem for you, too.
We have stopped either to or from FL in the following towns: Williamsburg, VA, Florence, SC and Hilton Head Island, SC. On our way to WDW, we drove for about 10 hours (plus stops for gas, once per state, on average) right down I-95 before stopping for dinner and an overnight in Florence, SC. From that point, WDW should be another 8 hour drive, again, not including stops.
On the way home, just for variety, we drove from WDW to Disney's Hilton Head Island. That drive was only about 6 hours, so if you don't plan to stay and take advantage of the really beautiful beaches, dolphin encounters, restaurants and shops nearby, this stop may not work for you. If you have the time, though, this added a very leisurely two days to the end of our otherwise hectic park vacation. From HHI to PA, though, would be a long 13 hour drive, which is why we chose to spend a day and a night in historic Williamsburg. The distance between HHI and Williamsburg is only 8 hours, which leaves you plenty of time to enjoy a nice dinner upon arrival, and explore the area the next day, prior to your departure. From WIlliamsburg to PA is about a 6 hour drive, depending on where in the state you'll be heading, of course.
Because most of your trip will be right down I-95, just be careful to schedule your departure in such a way as to avoid the cities of Phila., Baltimore, DC and even Richmond, if you can, around both the a.m. and p.m. rush hours.
Send more questions as you think of them! I'd love to help your trip to Walt Disney World the most magical it can be!