Driving from Brooklyn, NY to Adams, NY: Distance & Directions

The drive from Brooklyn to Adams (in Jefferson County, near Watertown) covers approximately 148 miles (238 km) and takes about 2 hours 35 minutes under normal conditions.

Route Overview

1. Start on I-278 East (Brooklyn-Queens Expressway) toward Queens.
2. Merge onto I-495 East (Long Island Expressway) toward Riverhead.
3. Continue on I-495 to Exit 70 (I-81 North / Watertown).
4. Take I-81 North for ~100 miles to Adams, NY.

Tips

• Traffic on the LIE (I-495) can be heavy—avoid rush hours if possible.
• I-81 North is straightforward but watch for winter weather near the Tug Hill Plateau (heavy lake-effect snow).
• Fuel up before leaving the NYC metro area; prices are lower upstate.

Adams is a small town (pop. ~1,700) known for its historic district and proximity to the Adirondacks and Thousand Islands region.