Locals: what is the drive like from Richmond to Outer Banks? (Chesapeake: to eat, business)

[Alicia64]

I've been invited to visit friends in Outer Banks, but suffice it to say: I'm not a long distance driver. I hate driving.

How long will it take me to drive from Glen Allen to the Outer Banks and what is the drive like? Funny enough, I actually appreciate some traffic because I hate to drive super fast. So traffic tends to slow everyone down a little. (I know, I'm nuts.)

Also, I'd be leaving Richmond on a Sunday and returning on a Thursday in mid July.

I'm new to VA -- what do you think of this idea??

Thanks,

Alley

[onevthoki]

Richmond to OBX is a piece of cake!

I go 460, which you will find is full of 35 and 45mph speed zones, as you go through the small towns. And I highly recommend you follow them!

Also, the toll on the Chesapeake Expressway recently increased. The $6.00 one way toll (on the weekends) is highway robbery, so you might want to take 168 Business to avoid the toll. Plus, taking the business route gives you some places to stop if you need to take a rest break or grab a bite to eat.

Once you hit the NC border, the driving is pretty easy. 158 is a four-lane road that presents no trouble at all. Plus, with your travel days, you shouldn't have any backup as you go over the sound to actually cross over into the Outer Banks. Time-wise, following all of the speed limits, I can do it in 3 hours from Chester with no stops.

Enjoy your trip!

[ellieb128]

Just going to second 460 - and as PP said, watch your speed. A little longer but a nice easy ride.