NYC to Pittsburgh. Cheapest Route?

[ahasan105]

Hi everybody. I am trying to budget my trip from NYC to Pittsburgh, PA. I would like to hit the least amount of toll roads as possible.

Using Google Maps, and using the "Avoid Tolls" function, I was able to find these 3 routes.

Can an experienced traveler please review the routes VIA I-80 and provide some insight?

Are there indeed tolls that will have to be paid using this route?

If so, would you happen to know how much they would be?



Best,
Ahasan105

[AZBuck]

Welcome aboard the RoadTrip America Forums!

Your drive from Long Island to Pittsburgh will incur no tolls but that is not true for your return, even if you took the same route back. The Holland Tunnel collects its toll ($15) only from eastbound traffic. Using US-1 from the tunnel to Newark Airport saves paying tolls that would be charged if you were to use either of the Jersey Turnpike alternatives (I-95 or I-78). You can also head more directly to I-80 by using NJ-7/NJ-508, the so-called Newark Jersey City Turnpike (but free), to I-280 and I-80 at Pine Brook. And at the western end of the trip I would use US-220//I-99/US-22 from Bellefonte PA through Altoona to Pittsburgh.

AZBuck

[ahasan105]

Very Good, thanks for the insight.

I was doubtful with this new technology that google is using, as it is not always 100% accurate.

To clarify, the direction proposed by google Map(the ones in my link) incur NO tolls, however, the return trip will be a different story?

I am generally terrible with directions, and do rely heavily on printed instructions, so I would be following the Google Maps Directions by the book. That's why it is so important to me, that THOSE directions are accurate.

Best,
Ahasan105

[glc]

Welcome to RTA!

I see you are leaving from out on Long Island - take the LIE to the BQE, take the Williamsburg Bridge, go across lower Manhattan to the Holland Tunnel. There is no toll going this way, but on your return trip there's a $15 cash toll for the Holland Tunnel. Take the Pulaski Skyway (US-1&9) to I-78. Take that to NJ-24 to I-287 to I-80. The Delaware Water Gap bridge toll is $1.00, westbound only, EZ-Pass accepted. Take I-80 to I-99 to Altoona, then US-22 to I-376 into Pittsburgh.

Total tolls: Westbound $1, Eastbound $15 unless you have an EZ-Pass.

If you prefer to use different routing through NYC, that's fine, just get to I-80 somehow. However, off the top of my head I can't think of any other routing that would be toll-free going west or any cheaper going east without getting into a real traffic mess.

I would avoid NJ-7/508/I-280 - NJ-24 is a much better road.

[ahasan105]

Welcome to RTA!

I see you are leaving from out on Long Island - take the LIE to the BQE, take the Williamsburg Bridge, go across lower Manhattan to the Holland Tunnel. There is no toll going this way, but on your return trip there's a $15 cash toll for the Holland Tunnel. Take the Pulaski Skyway (US-1&9) to I-78. Take that to NJ-24 to I-287 to I-80. The Delaware Water Gap bridge toll is $1.00, westbound only, EZ-Pass accepted. Take I-80 to I-99 to Altoona, then US-22 to I-376 into Pittsburgh.

Total tolls: Westbound $1, Eastbound $15 unless you have an EZ-Pass.

If you prefer to use different routing through NYC, that's fine, just get to I-80 somehow. However, off the top of my head I can't think of any other routing that would be toll-free going west or any cheaper going east without getting into a real traffic mess.

I would avoid NJ-7/508/I-280 - NJ-24 is a much better road.

Excellent, seems like those direction coincide with Google Maps, quite nicely. Although your route does appear to be a bit easier to follow.

Thanks, you guys are so helpful.
I've been pulling out my hair trying to find a definitive answer; came to the forum and no more stress!

Best,
Ahasan105

[Lifemagician]

I am generally terrible with directions, and do rely heavily on printed instructions, so I would be following the Google Maps Directions by the book. That's why it is so important to me, that THOSE directions are accurate. 5

Head to AAA and get yourself a good detailed map of NYC and State maps of NJ and PA. If you are a member these will be free. A good detailed map of Pittsburgh could also be handy.

Study the maps carefully, and highlight the route you choose with a contrasting colour. This will give you the BIG picture. Should you be detoured, or such, anywghere, there won't be any confusion, as the map (together with the gps) will show you where you are, and which routes will take you back to the highlighted. These maps will also show you all your rest areas, towns along the way, and what attractions there are.... should you have the time to enjoy any of them.

Besides those benefits, good maps are essential when on the road. Don't be tempted to rely solely on your electronics. Many have at their peril - some fatal.

Lifey