Flight
Driving
Ellicott City to Houston
Updated: 30 May 2026
Traveling from Ellicott City to Houston covers approximately 1,500 miles. The most efficient route is flying from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport to George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Driving involves taking I-95 South to I-85, then transitioning to I-10 West through the Gulf Coast states. Expect a 22-hour drive time excluding stops. This journey transitions you from the historic hills of Maryland to the sprawling urban landscape of the Texas Gulf Coast.
Total Distance: 2,415 km driving distance; 1,980 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Flying from BWI to IAH takes approximately 3 hours 15 minutes of air time.
Cheapest Way
Driving is generally cheaper for groups of three or more, costing roughly $350 in fuel.
Compare Ellicott City to Houston Routes
|
Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3 hours 15 mins | 22 hours |
| Avg Price | $250 - $500 | $300 - $450 in fuel |
| Operator | United Airlines | Personal Vehicle |
| Route | BWI to IAH | I-95 S to I-85 S to I-10 W |
| Tip | Book at least three weeks in advance to secure lower fares on non-stop routes. | Plan for an overnight stop in Birmingham, Alabama, to break up the long drive. |
Travel Tips
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Airport ChoiceUse IAH for international or major domestic flights. Use Hobby (HOU) for Southwest Airlines flights.
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Traffic AwarenessAvoid Houston highways during rush hours from 7 AM to 9 AM and 4 PM to 6 PM.
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HydrationHouston is extremely humid; carry water at all times when walking outdoors.
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Toll RoadsHouston has many toll roads; ensure your rental car has an EZ TAG or similar transponder.
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DiningTry the Tex-Mex cuisine in the Heights neighborhood for an authentic local experience.
Safety Tips
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Weather AlertsMonitor local news for tropical storm warnings during hurricane season.
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Vehicle SecurityNever leave valuables in your car, especially in downtown parking garages.
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Pedestrian SafetyHouston is car-centric; use designated crosswalks as drivers may not expect pedestrians.
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Emergency PrepKeep a physical map in your car in case of GPS failure in rural stretches of I-10.
People Also Ask
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Is there a train to Houston?Amtrak's Sunset Limited serves Houston, but it is not a practical daily commuter option from Maryland.
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What is the best airport in Houston?George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) is the primary hub for major carriers.
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How long is the drive to Houston?It takes approximately 22 hours of pure driving time from Ellicott City.
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Do I need a car in Houston?Yes, Houston is a sprawling city with limited public transit coverage outside the downtown core.
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What is the weather like in Houston?Expect hot, humid summers and mild, short winters.
Quick Info
- From Ellicott City, Maryland, United States
- To Houston, Texas, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
October to April, as the humidity and heat in Houston are significantly lower during these months.
Things to Do in Houston
1
Space Center Houston
Explore the official visitor center of NASA Johnson Space Center. See the Saturn V rocket and touch a moon rock.
2
Museum District
Visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It features a massive paleontology hall and a butterfly center.
3
Buffalo Bayou Park
Walk or bike along the 160-acre park. It offers stunning skyline views and access to the Cistern.
4
The Galleria
Shop at the largest mall in Texas. It features an indoor ice rink and high-end luxury retailers.
Tags
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