Originally Posted by Analise
You must count yourself in the "nuts" category because you recommended that
mymiles2go stay on the NJ Turnpike until the last exit before the GWB to get on the Palisades to go north to the Tappan Zee which also can be a disaster. If you are so against the Turnpike after Exit 14, why would you recommend it?
I know you continue to
think you know everything, but -
I think these people are "nuts" to imply that this trip will be no big deal. There's no way anyone's getting from Philly to Westchester on Thanksgiving in 2.5 hours. I'm not against the NJT at all (except for the strange, long-standing law that you're not allowed to take pictures of it, and the crappy Vince Lombardi service area), but
mymiles2go should know how insanely long the trip might take.
My view is that the Tappan Zee will take much less time than the GWB
mymiles2go is free to take or not take that advice. Another good variation of this route would be NJT-> GSP -> NY Thruway -> Tappan Zee. I still think the Staten Island route, while violating the "avoid long island at all costs" rule, may still be the sleeper.
I think the best advice is to leave early. This trip is more than 300 miles. On Thanksgiving Day, I would plan 6.5 - 7 hours.