Michiganders that drive to FL east coast route advice?

[Alice Sr.]

I have driven to FL many times but that was from IL. My iPhone navigation is giving me two route options. One picks up Rt 75 through Toledo, OH, continuing through VA, NC and SC, to Rt 95 through FL but switches interstate and highways quite a bit throughout the route. The other is basically Rt 80 to Rt 75 the majority of the way (runs west of the 1st route). On paper I prefer the more easterly route but a little concerned it may include more local/state highways vs all interstate. Do you have a preference or warning about either of these? Thanks!!

 

[OKW Lover]

You don't say where in MI you are but assuming its the Detroit area the estimated time difference is minimal at about 45 minutes. I'd be tempted to do one on the way down and the other on the way back just for the variation. There will be some spectacular scenery on the more easterly route as you go through the mountains.

 

[Simba]

We’ve always taken the western route from Grand Rapids. (69 to 65 eventually getting to 75) We have rarely ran into problems. Typical takes us less than 20 hours as we drive straight through. Quickest we have done it is just shy of 18 hours and longest was about 22 hours. We always time it so we make sure to hit Atlanta during non rush hour.

 

[sam_gordon]

To me, simpler is better when driving. So I75 all the way for me. If you ask people for directions, make sure you ask for INTERSTATE 75/95, not ROUTE 75/95. Route would be a different kind of road and you may confuse who you're asking for help.
US Route 75
Interstate 75
Route 95
Interstate 95

 

[Alice Sr.]

To me, simpler is better when driving. So I75 all the way for me. If you ask people for directions, make sure you ask for INTERSTATE 75/95, not ROUTE 75/95. Route would be a different kind of road and you may confuse who you're asking for help.
US Route 75
Interstate 75
Route 95
Interstate 95

Good point on using the correct terminology. Thanks

 

[jcvalenti]

In all things navigation , I go for simpler and faster. No doubt the Eastern path is more scenic, though.

However you drive, just follow the golden rule - never be heading near Atlanta during rush hour.

 

[sdoll]

I have done both routes a few times. I live in Toledo to give you an idea. We actually prefer the eastern route. It is a bit longer but we prefer the drive. Truthfully, we travel 75 often and I think we like the change of scenery.