How Far is Scranton from Philadelphia?
The distance between Scranton and Philadelphia is roughly 120 miles (193 kilometers) as the crow flies. However, the driving distance is usually a bit longer, typically around 120-130 miles, depending on the specific route taken.
Planning a trip between these two Pennsylvania cities? Here’s what you need to know about the distance and travel time.
Driving Distance and Routes
When driving, the most common route from Scranton to Philadelphia involves traveling south on Interstate 476 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension) and then connecting to Interstate 76 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike Mainline). This route is usually the fastest and most direct, with an average driving time of about 2 to 2.5 hours, traffic permitting.
Alternative routes exist, such as taking Interstate 81 south to Interstate 78 east, but these are generally longer and may involve more local roads, increasing travel time.
Other Transportation Options
Besides driving, there aren’t many readily available public transportation options for traveling directly between Scranton and Philadelphia. Greyhound used to operate bus routes, but these are no longer available at the time of writing. While Amtrak offers train service in Pennsylvania, it doesn’t provide a direct route between these two cities.
Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft could be an option, but the cost for such a long trip would be significant.
Factors Affecting Travel Time
Several factors can influence your travel time between Scranton and Philadelphia:
- Traffic: Congestion, especially during peak hours or on weekends, can significantly increase travel time on the Pennsylvania Turnpike.
- Weather: Snow, ice, or heavy rain can slow down traffic and make driving more hazardous.
- Construction: Road work and construction projects can cause delays, especially during the summer months.
- Route Choice: Selecting a less congested, though potentially longer, route might sometimes be faster than sticking to the main highways.
For more detailed information on the cities themselves, you can refer to Philadelphia’s Wikipedia page.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there a train from Scranton to Philadelphia?
No, there is no direct Amtrak train route between Scranton and Philadelphia.
How long does it take to drive from Scranton to Philadelphia?
The drive typically takes 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
What is the best route to take from Scranton to Philadelphia?
The most common and usually fastest route is via Interstate 476 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike Northeast Extension) and Interstate 76 (the Pennsylvania Turnpike Mainline).
Are there any buses that go from Scranton to Philadelphia?
Currently, Greyhound no longer operates bus routes between the two cities.
How much would a rideshare cost from Scranton to Philadelphia?
Rideshare costs (Uber/Lyft) can vary greatly but expect to pay a significant amount (possibly hundreds of dollars) for a trip of that distance.
Summary
Traveling from Scranton to Philadelphia is a common journey, most easily made by car via the Pennsylvania Turnpike. The distance is around 120-130 miles, with a driving time of approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. While alternative transportation options are limited, careful planning and awareness of potential delays can ensure a smooth trip.
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