Air Travel
- Transport Mode: Air Travel (with connecting flights)
- Companies: Southwest Airlines, American Airlines
- Duration: Approximately 8 hours (including layovers)
- Distance: 1,250 miles
- Costs:$350 - $500 (based on booking time and class)
- Roads/Routes: Not applicable for air travel; major layovers typically include Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Philadelphia (PHL).
Pro Tip: Utilize flight comparison sites such as Google Flights or Skyscanner to find the best prices and timing for your trip, and book early for the best rates.
Consider purchasing your tickets during off-peak seasons (Tuesday to Thursday) for better deals.
Road Travel
- Transport Mode: Car (Road Trip)
- Companies: Enterprise Rent-A-Car, Hertz
- Duration: Approximately 21 hours (without significant stops)
- Distance: 1,400 miles
- Costs:$200 (car rental for 3 days) + $150 (gas estimate) + $150 (meals) = $500 total
- Roads/Routes: Primarily I-40 E and I-81 N; passing through major cities like Albuquerque, Oklahoma City, St. Louis, and Harrisburg.
Pro Tip: Plan your stops in advance to explore attractions along the way (e.g., the Gateway Arch in St. Louis), and download an offline map for better navigation in rural areas.
If you enjoy scenery, consider taking the scenic byways when possible to enhance your travel experience.
Comprehensive Recommendation
For those seeking a quick and efficient journey, air travel is recommended, as it significantly reduces travel time, although it features connections. Airlines such as Southwest and American offer the most reliable services with reasonable pricing. On the other hand, if you prefer a more immersive experience and the adventure of a road trip (also incorporating sightseeing), consider driving. Renting a car gives you flexibility in travel times and the opportunity to explore various attractions along the way.