Road Trip from central New Jersey to Pittsburg

[JahanNJ]

Hi,

I am planning a Road Trip from central New Jersey to Pittsburgh, PA. I am leaving Sunday early morning and hope to be there by the afternoon. Can anyone suggest the best route?

I live near Interstate 287, so I am guessing I should start by talking that to 78 West.

Thanks,
Jahan

[AZBuck]

Welcome aboard the RoadTrip America Forums!

From the intersection of I-287 and I-78 (and anywhere nearby) the quickest way to Pittsburgh is just to take I-78 to I-81 to the far side of Harrisburg where you'd get on the Pennsylvania Turnpike and follow that to the Pittsburgh area. It's about 5 hours driving time (plus stops) to Pittsburgh, so you should certainly be able to get there by the afternoon.

AZBuck

[glc]

5 hours would be pushing it - it's 333 miles from the 287/78 junction to downtown Pittsburgh and my software says 5.5 hours. To allow for stops and possible delays, I'd allow 7 hours. Bring your EZ-Pass, you are looking at about $15 in tolls.

[JahanNJ]

Does 81 connect directly with Penn Turnpike, the directions from Google puts me on US-11 south for 2 miles in between these two? Is this correct?

[Midwest Michael]

That is correct, there's isn't a direct interchange - you do have to take a short connection to get on the turnpike.

It's actually not that uncommon with the turnpike system - where they limit the access points more than a typical freeway and thus limit toll booths. It should be very well signed, however, and you shouldn't have any significant issues.

[glc]

You cannot miss it, it's VERY well marked. Google lies, it's only 1 mile. Take advantage of it and take a break - US-11 for that mile is lined with gas stations, restaurants, and hotels.