Just passing through

Question

We will be driving through Atlanta next week as part of a longer road trip. I am not looking for routes to avoid Atlanta, just the best way to get through it. We will be leaving from just south of Nashville that morning so we will get into the Atlanta area late morning or noonish next Thursday. Final destination is Jacksonville, Florida.

Google maps is showing the route staying on 75 right through downtown. I would think the bypass would be better. Of course I will check traffic online the day of, but in general is the best route through to stay on 75?

Answer

When driving through Atlanta on your way to Jacksonville, Florida, the route you take can depend on several factors, such as traffic conditions, time of day, and your comfort level with driving through the city. Here's a breakdown of the options:

Option 1: Staying on I-75 through Downtown Atlanta

Taking I-75 straight through downtown Atlanta is a common route, but it can be prone to heavy traffic, especially around the noon hour when you'll be passing through. However, the interstate itself is a direct and well-marked route to continue south toward Florida.
If you don't mind dealing with some potential slowdowns and are comfortable with navigating through city traffic, this can be a simple option. Google Maps often recommends this route unless there's a significant backup or road closure.
Make sure to check live traffic updates on the day of your travel, as Atlanta's downtown traffic can vary depending on accidents, construction, or events happening in the area.

Option 2: Taking the I-285 Bypass

If you want to avoid downtown Atlanta and reduce the risk of sitting in traffic, taking the I-285 bypass around the city is a good alternative. The bypass loops around the perimeter of Atlanta, and while it adds a little extra time, it tends to be less congested than driving through the city center.
The I-285 bypass is especially useful if you are driving around the noon hour, as traffic inside the city can be dense. While there may still be traffic on I-285, it's generally more manageable, especially during non-rush hours.
Keep in mind that some sections of I-285 can be congested, especially near major interchanges or if there are accidents on the route, so it's always a good idea to check traffic conditions before heading out.

What to Do:

Check Traffic Beforehand: No matter which route you choose, it’s a great idea to check live traffic conditions on Google Maps or Waze before you enter Atlanta. These apps will often suggest alternate routes if there’s a significant backup or traffic incident.
Consider Your Timing: If you hit Atlanta at noon, traffic will likely be lighter than during peak rush hour (around 4:30–6:30 PM). That said, if you're passing through later in the day or closer to rush hour, you may experience heavier congestion even on I-285.
Know Your Preferences: If you're in a hurry and prefer staying on a direct route, I-75 through downtown may be your best bet, provided you’re prepared for potential slowdowns. If you want to avoid the heart of the city altogether, I-285 is a more scenic and less stressful option.

Final Thoughts: Both routes are viable options depending on your preferences and the traffic on the day. While I-75 through downtown is more direct, I-285 is a safer choice if you prefer avoiding city traffic. Either way, it's always best to stay informed about live conditions and adjust as needed.

Just passing through

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