? for DC area people

[dejr_8]

I have to drive to Philly (from NC) and google maps has me take 295 through DC as opposed to staying on the beltway. Is that a good idea?

Thanks

 

[lovemygoofy]

Does it have you taking 295 Parkway to the turnpike?

I love 295 personally. I prefer that since it's the outskirts of the city.

 

[disney1990]

Personally, I would direct you to take the Beltway around the city. Washington DC is a pretty confusing city to outsiders to drive through.

 

[lovemygoofy]

I'm still really new so maybe the 295 isn't the baltimore washington parkway that I'm thinking of.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

I used to commute between Northern Virginia and New Carrollton. Going up 295 tended to be faster in good weather. In bad weather (rain or snow) the Beltway was much faster and safer.

 

[Christine]

I live in Northern VA and when I want to head over to Maryland (like going to OC, Maryland), I definitely take 295 through town versus going around the beltway. That said, it *can* be a tad bit confusing in one area and I probably wouldn't recommend this route to a novice DC driver.