Lexingtonians wasted 57 hours in traffic in 2024, according to a recent report from Texas A&M Transportation Institute. To put it in perspective, that's like watching "The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King" (Extended Edition) 13 times.

By the numbers

According to the report, a trip that would take 20 minutes without traffic takes...

24 minutes with traffic
25 minutes in the peak direction
25 minutes to plan for a punctual arrival

When is the worst time to drive in Lexington?

Traffic is at its worst between 4 and 6 p.m. on weekdays. In the morning, 7:30-9 a.m. can also be dicey.

But the hands-down worst time to commute? Before or after major community events. Budget plenty of extra travel time or take alternate routes during any University of Kentucky sporting events.

When is the best time to drive in Lexington?

If you want to skip the gridlock, plan to drive between 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. or after 7 p.m. on weekdays.

Weekend mornings are also a safe bet, especially before noon. Midday traffic tends to stay light — just steer clear of the lunch rush around 12:30, when popular spots and nearby intersections can get backed up.

Traffic is calmer now that Keeneland season has wrapped up, but expect conditions to change as holiday travel ramps up in the coming weeks.

What about public transit?

Route one, two, or 15 — pick your ride. At least you aren’t footing the gas bill.

Bicycling is also a great option. Good for traffic congestion... and your calves.