Driving from Pittsburgh

[POOHLUV69]

So we've decided to drive to WDW this coming August, made the trip many times, could probably do with our eyes closed. Our normal route is 79-19-77. Last time we drove 19 just seemed so congested and worrying about the speed traps makes me crazy. So here's my question, has anyone just stayed on 79 to Charleston and then picked up 77? I know it's further in the mileage, but what about time? Did it end up being the same as if you had taken 19? We may make a dry run in the summer just to see what we come up with, but thought if anyone had any experience they could share that would be great. TIA.

 

[haley's mom]

Never drove, but considering driving from Pittsburgh in November to save money. I have no answers, but would love to hear suggestions from others.

 

[vicki_c]

We used to do that, but once we found out about 19, we took that way because it was always faster (I don't travel thru Pgh any longer to go to WDW, but I used to for years). Speed traps are a problem, but we just don't speed through there. Taking 19 was definitely faster and when we traveled FL to WNY while living in Florida, we still went that way.

 

[scottmel]

I live in Pgh and joined this thread to see what others say. I mentioned driving to WDW to DH a few weeks ago and he laughed....I think it would be fun and no rental car fees and no worrying about airfare but we are only a party of 3 so the airfare savings isn't so hot.....But still I will like to see what others say....thanks!

 

[chartle]

So we've decided to drive to WDW this coming August, made the trip many times, could probably do with our eyes closed. Our normal route is 79-19-77. Last time we drove 19 just seemed so congested and worrying about the speed traps makes me crazy. So here's my question, has anyone just stayed on 79 to Charleston and then picked up 77? I know it's further in the mileage, but what about time? Did it end up being the same as if you had taken 19? We may make a dry run in the summer just to see what we come up with, but thought if anyone had any experience they could share that would be great. TIA.

Well Google maps says its going to take 40 minutes longer.

When we had to drive back once because our Auto Train return was cancelled, we didn't see the 19 shortcut.

I do remember hitting traffic around Charlestown, of no where near parkway east but it was strange to hit traffic on a Sunday afternoon.

My only problem that I have ever had on that stretch of 19 was when I was coming back from a high school band trip early march last year. It was snowing and had about 4 inches on the road. The only patch of concrete that was shoveled was the sidewalk around the big rest stop there.

We never saw a snow plow or any cleared road on the entire stretch. Not something you would expect on a toll road.

No worries about speed traps as we were only going 25 mph.

Oh and we will be travelling that route in May.

 

[keishashadow]

So we've decided to drive to WDW this coming August, made the trip many times, could probably do with our eyes closed. Our normal route is 79-19-77. Last time we drove 19 just seemed so congested and worrying about the speed traps makes me crazy. So here's my question, has anyone just stayed on 79 to Charleston and then picked up 77? I know it's further in the mileage, but what about time? Did it end up being the same as if you had taken 19? We may make a dry run in the summer just to see what we come up with, but thought if anyone had any experience they could share that would be great. TIA.

i won't drive to WDW (if i can help it) but do take portion of this route to Myrtle Beach.

Traffic on the 19 stretch seemed much thinner on a weekday. When we must drive thru on weekends we try to reach the area pre 7 am on way down and avoid it during late afternoon/early evening on the return leg.

 

[POOHLUV69]

I'd much rather fly, but DH just hates to fly, in the end whatever it takes to get to Disney. More than likely we aren't going to be able to hit 19 pre 7am. We check into Disney Aug 19, so I'm not sure if we are leaving the 17 or 18 which might make a difference, not really sure. I think the best thing is just to make a practice drive and let everyone know what we find out. Thanks everyone!

 

[avw1295]

I've never driven to WDW from Pittsburgh, but my husband spent 11 months working in Columbia, SC several years ago. I am familiar with the route that you are referring to. I accidentally stayed on 79 once on my way to Columbia. If I recall correctly, it added about 50 minutes to the trip.