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Best drive time(s) between LA & Disneyland on Th & Fri

What is the best time(s) of day to leave Los Angeles to go to Disneyland on a Thursday? And what is the best time(s) of day to leave Disneyland to return to LA on a Friday? Thanx Mark

When planning a trip between Los Angeles and Disneyland, timing your drive can help you avoid the notorious LA traffic. Here’s a general guide on the best times to leave:

Leaving Los Angeles for Disneyland on Thursday:

  • Best Time: The best time to leave is early in the morning, ideally between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM. This way, you can avoid the peak rush hour traffic that usually starts around 7:30 AM and lasts until 9:00 AM. If you're able to hit the road early, you'll have a smoother and faster ride, with travel times typically around 35 to 45 minutes (depending on traffic conditions).
  • Avoid: If you leave after 9:00 AM, you’ll likely encounter heavy traffic, especially on the 5 Freeway or 405 Freeway, which can lead to delays of up to an hour or more.

Leaving Disneyland to return to Los Angeles on Friday:

  • Best Time: The best time to head back is in the late morning or early afternoon, between 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM. During these hours, traffic tends to be lighter as it’s after the morning rush and before the evening rush. This will help you avoid the worst of the congestion, and you can usually expect travel times of around 40 to 50 minutes.
  • Avoid: If you leave later in the afternoon, especially between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM, you’ll be caught in heavy traffic as people leave work and head toward home. This can add significant delays to your trip.

Ultimately, leaving early or around midday will save you time and help avoid the worst traffic. Make sure to check live traffic updates before you depart, as conditions can vary depending on accidents, construction, or special events in the area!

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