Commute time Arlington to Herndon (Vienna, Falls Church: apartments, condos, home)

[jjanke]

Hi guys,

Trying to get some updated information on this route that has been discussed here but all the way back in 2007. I really have no experience driving in VA. Specifically I am thinking Ballston to Herndon off Sunrise Valley Dr. I have been checking Google maps often in the mornings and afternoons and am seeing anywhere from 25-35 minutes each way using 66/toll road. Is that a realistic estimate? I'm also assuming that is the best way to get there, as well. My hours would likely be 8:30-5:30.

Just some background, moving from downtown DC into VA for a job in Herndon. I know going DC to Arlington is only moving me partially closer to Herndon, but it helps. My girlfriend and I are in our early/mid 20's and are trying to preserve some of the fun & nightlife we currently have and I know Arlington has a nice scene. Also must be near a metro so I figure the only present options are Arlington, maybe Dunn Loring, or wait for the silver line, but that's not really that feasible.

Thanks for any insight provided.

[Carlingtonian]

I would guess that at rush hour, using I-66, Arl to Herndon would take about 45 minutes, if there are no accidents. I can tell you that Arlington (near I-66) to IAD on the airport-only road is 20 minutes, so add another 10 for traffic and another 10 for the extra distance. And that's in ideal conditions.

Have you considered Vienna near the Metro? Much closer to Herndon, and still not far from Arlington. And way cheaper. But no nightlife near there, I don't think. Dunn-Loring is not a bad idea; that Mosaic center is really great--but it's a mile from the Metro. If Vienna is too quiet for you, East Falls Church has restaurants nearby, and apartments/condos there are probably still cheaper than those near any of the stops east of there (Ballston-Rosslyn).

[Badger21]

25-35 minutes may be a realistic time in the morning, but coming home you'll be hitting lots of traffic on 66. Pretty soul crushing, especially on a Friday.

[jjanke]

Hmm. I just spoke to someone else who mentioned that while the morning ride out would be pretty easy, coming back and hitting that turn into 66 is real nasty. Price worth paying I suppose. I've considered Vienna, but as my girlfriend has to metro all the way into metro center, and the already touched upon issue of no nightlife...just don't know about that.

Thanks for the input.