Locals: Any I-95 / I-4 driving advice?

[DisneyMarg]

We'll be driving in from SC on Sat. We have gone through Atlanta and taken 75 in the past, but are planning to take the "easy" route - I/95 to I/4. For those of you familiar with the current conditions of those roads, everything OK? Do you foresee us having any problems doing this on Saturday (Dec 22)?

 

[echoscot]

We'll be driving in from SC on Sat. We have gone through Atlanta and taken 75 in the past, but are planning to take the "easy" route - I/95 to I/4. For those of you familiar with the current conditions of those roads, everything OK? Do you foresee us having any problems doing this on Saturday (Dec 22)?

It could be crowded with Christmas tourists coming in. But I think you will find that on all the major roadways into Orlando. When i was stationed in Charleston in the navy, we found that route to be the best to visit family back in Orlando. About a 6 hour drive going the speed limit (not that I would EVER go above the speed limit)

 

[makeupagoodbye]

Depending on what time you arrive in Orlando. It usually backs up on I-4 around 5 o'clock with everyone going home from the day, if you are traveling Westbound which im sure you will if you are heading towards Disney. But for a Saturday during the day - you should be OK - its usually pretty smooth. hope you have a great time!! :wave:

 

[AllStarGuard]

Just take I-75 to the Florida Turnpike towards Orlando. For a 2 axle vehicle to travel 49.07 miles toll with Cash is $3.00. I have never been backed up on I-75 or the turnpike. The only issue you may have is traveling I-4 from the pike to WDW. This route will definitely keep you off I-4 through downtown Orlando. It also depends what time of day you go through there. Keep it late morning/early afternoon.

 

[krankenstein]

I just drove I-95/I-4 from Savannah, GA last week. Expect some construction in Georgia on I-95 (it starts south of Savannah). They were also doing some construction on I-4. Just watch yourself in those areas, b/c they had several lane shifts plus the normal stuff that comes with that type of construction.

 

[DisneyMarg]

Thanks, all! Great feedback! We're on the way!

 

[crazydaveh]

You will find some construction that makes it a pain driving around mile marker 112 on Interstate 4.

You shouldn't have too many rush hour problems since it's Saturday, but as others have said, many others will use Saturday to get to their Christmas destination, so it could be busy out there.

Have a safe trip.

 

[twilight mitsuk]

watch for speed traps!!!!

 

[ttasuperskyway]

If you decide to take I-75 to the Turnpike take the 429 west, i think its exit 267. It will provide a clear trip to Disney bypassing I-4

 

[TTATraveler]

If you decide to take I-75 to the Turnpike take the 429 west, i think its exit 267. It will provide a clear trip to Disney bypassing I-4

I second that. There is hardly anyone on the 429 and it provides a nice entry into Disney by Coronado Springs. I believe the exit for Disney off the 429 is Exit 8.

 

[reptar77]

DO NOT TAKE I-95 it is horrible. I would follow the above advise of toll rodes. Have a safe and fun trip.

 

[Master Yoda]

Not too sure of the road conditions north of Florida but there are 2 areas of 95 that will be slightly tricky once you hit the sunshine state. The first will be shortly after you pass 295 in Jacksonville. There is some major construction going on between 295 and the Fuller Warren bridge with almost daily traffic pattern changes. Traffic on a Saturday should not be bad but it is a holiday weekend so the earlier you can hit J-ville the better. Back of the gas pedal and pay attention to the signs and you should be fine. You will also run into the same level of construction around Ormond beach. Again back off the throttle a little and you will be fine. There is also some construction on I-4 but it should not be too much of a factor.

 

[Hidden Mikey]

I agree I -95/ I-4 can be a real challenge depending on what time of day you travel.

i travel to Florida frequently and have found Sunday to be one of the best day to travel southbound(I-95) and westbound (i-4) towards Disney.

Coming from Georgia I have found that the key is to be in the Jacksonville no later than 10:00 am (despite the construction it should be smooth sailing through that area)

I-4 on the other hand can at times be like a thrill ride at Disney (cars have cut me off in traffic as well as a lot of un-necessary lane switching going on.
Once you get near downtown orlando it get get "white knuckle driving" at times. but as long as you pay attention you will be fine.

I chose Sunday because i noticed it to be another big "travel home day" for tourists.
But the bottom line is it is all about timing. if you are willing to get up real early, travel conditions will be fine.
I don`t like traveling late at night because constuction crews mostly work late night and close off travel lanes.

Anyhow.....good luck

 

[crazydaveh]

Just a quick note, gas is about 12-17 cents cheaper here in Orlando than it is up along I 95, so plan to try and fill up in GA (usually has good prices) and if you can, make it to Otown on a tank. If your car will let you do this, it will help!