Flight
Driving
Annapolis to Los Angeles
Updated: 28 May 2026
Traveling from Annapolis to Los Angeles covers approximately 2,700 miles across the United States. Most travelers fly from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Driving requires navigating I-70 West through the Midwest and connecting to I-15 South. The journey spans multiple time zones and diverse landscapes including the Appalachian Mountains and the Mojave Desert. Expect a flight duration of roughly 6 hours, while driving takes about 40 hours of active road time.
Total Distance: Driving distance 4,350 km; straight-line air distance 3,700 km.
Fastest Way
A direct flight from BWI to LAX takes approximately 6 hours of air time.
Cheapest Way
Flying from BWI on a budget carrier like Southwest is often cheaper than the fuel and lodging costs of a 5-day drive.
Compare Annapolis to Los Angeles Routes
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Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 6 hours | 42 hours |
| Avg Price | $300 - $600 | $600 - $900 in fuel |
| Operator | Southwest Airlines | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | BWI to LAX | I-70 W to I-15 S |
| Tip | Book at least three weeks in advance for the best fares. | Check your tire pressure before crossing the high-altitude passes in Colorado. |
Travel Tips
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Airport ChoiceUse BWI instead of DCA for easier access from Annapolis.
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Time ZonesPrepare for a three-hour time difference when heading west.
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HydrationDrink extra water during the flight to combat cabin dryness.
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Car RentalRent a car at LAX to navigate the sprawling city effectively.
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PackingLayer your clothing as temperatures fluctuate between the coast and inland areas.
Safety Tips
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Road SafetyAvoid driving through the Rockies during winter snowstorms.
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Urban AwarenessStay alert in crowded tourist areas like Hollywood Boulevard.
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Vehicle PrepCarry a spare tire and emergency kit for desert stretches.
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NavigationDownload offline maps for remote areas in Utah and Nevada.
People Also Ask
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Is there a direct train to LA?No, you must transfer in Chicago to the Southwest Chief line.
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How long is the drive?It takes roughly 40 to 45 hours of pure driving time.
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What is the best airport in Maryland?BWI is the most convenient airport for Annapolis residents.
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Do I need a car in LA?Yes, public transit is limited and a car is highly recommended.
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Are there tolls on I-70?Yes, expect tolls in Kansas and parts of the East Coast.
Quick Info
- From Annapolis, Maryland, United States
- To Los Angeles, California, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
September to October for mild weather across the entire route.
Things to Do in Los Angeles
1
Santa Monica Pier
Visit the iconic end of Route 66. Enjoy the amusement park rides and Pacific Ocean views.
2
Griffith Observatory
View the Hollywood Sign and the entire Los Angeles basin. It offers free public telescopes for stargazing.
3
Getty Center
Explore world-class art collections and stunning architecture. Admission is free, but parking requires a reservation.
4
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Walk along the historic sidewalk featuring stars of entertainment legends. It is located in the heart of Hollywood.
Tags
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