Avoiding I4 Early Rush Hour?

[PSUGuy]

We've rarely had to deal with local traffic, usually staying onsite and using WDW transport, but in March we'll be driving in from St Augustine on the morning of Tues., March 6. It appears to be a 2 hr drive and I'm wondering when we should plan to leave. We want to go right to a park, Epcot is EE that day, and I'm wondering how morning traffic will make us alter our plans. Any advice on traffic conditions in the 7 to 9 am window or alternate approach routes would be appreciated.

Bill From PA

 

[CR Resort Fan 4 Life]

Before my family and I statrted to take RT429, on the mornings we would start our drive home from WDW we use to go along I-4 to the Florida Turnpike. Well we would start driving just after 7:00 AM and there was never any problems with traffic at that time.

 

[jimmytammy]

I suggest avoiding I-4 at that time of day in the Orlando area. As you approach Sanford FL, take 417. Its a toll rd. but cost far outweighs congestion and possible wrecks(which are frequent). It is about 5 mins longer than perfect conditions on I-4, costs about 6.50(keep $1 bills and quarters handy) and it will be a breeze.
Exit 6 and 3 will put you on property. 6 is more congested as it puts you on International Dr., then takes you towards DTD area. We take 3, less traffic, more direct approach onto property.

 

[PSUGuy]

I suggest avoiding I-4 at that time of day in the Orlando area. As you approach Sanford FL, take 417. Its a toll rd. but cost far outweighs congestion and possible wrecks(which are frequent). It is about 5 mins longer than perfect conditions on I-4, costs about 6.50(keep $1 bills and quarters handy) and it will be a breeze.
Exit 6 and 3 will put you on property. 6 is more congested as it puts you on International Dr., then takes you towards DTD area. We take 3, less traffic, more direct approach onto property.

Thanks, I'm checking this on MapQuest right now and I see the logic, $6.50 is a small price to pay to keep on schedule. I appreciate the advice.

Bill From PA