Anyone ever driven from WDW on thanksgiving day to NJ?

[JMLBrats]

We are leaving WDW on thanksgiving day and taking the auto train. Im trying to talk DW into driving to save the money(we are driving all the way back to maine and will still have to drive from lorton va, although we are stopping in NJ for a night.) She's convinced the traffic will be horrible Im thinking it shouldnt be bad at all. Any input would be much appreciated.

DW wanted to add: Keep in mind that we'll have DS 6, DD4 and DD 22 months w/us and we were able to book a family sleeper for $650 on Amtrak (that's the total price w/the van) and we are suppossed to be in NJ on Friday afternoon to see family.

 

[Buckimion]

Did it in '04. Things were busy, but not NYC bumper-to-bumper. Just watch for the bozo who realizes he's (Or she) in the wrong lane especially on I-4 or 192. (Happens year round. )

 

[bopper]

keep in mind that most people eat T-giving dinner sometime in the after noon. So leave early and avoid being around a city in the late morning peak travel time. Also, avoid cities in the early evening travel back home time.

 

[JMLBrats]

Anyone else?

 

[CPT Tripss]

My two cents
"Black Friday" will be worse than Thanksgiving. But it looks like you will be "parked" in the Garden State then. Saturday is likely to be hectic from anywhere in NJ all the way up to Portland with all the shopping malls etc. near the interstates.
That said, at least you aren't on the road either Wed or Sun

 

[JMLBrats]

That's the main reason we're only staying in NJ for 1 night-to avoid driving on Sunday. We did that one Thanksgiving weekend and it took us literally twice as long to get home.

 

[CPT Tripss]

You made good time