Explore The Best Of I-95: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Are you planning a trip along the iconic I-95 highway in the US? From Maine to Florida, this 1,900-mile stretch offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences for travelers of all ages and interests. Whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or a culture vulture, there’s something for everyone on this scenic route. To help you make the most of your journey, we’ve put together a comprehensive travel guide that covers the top destinations, hidden gems, and insider tips along the way.

Top Attractions

No matter where you start or end your journey on I-95, there are some must-see attractions that you simply can’t miss. Some of the most popular include:

Washington D.C.

The nation’s capital is home to iconic landmarks like the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian museums. Spend a few days exploring the city’s rich history and vibrant cultural scene.

Savannah, Georgia

This charming southern city is known for its beautiful architecture, historic landmarks, and delicious food. Take a stroll along the cobblestone streets of the Historic District and soak up the city’s unique charm.

Boston, Massachusetts

The birthplace of American independence, Boston is a must-visit destination for history buffs. From the Freedom Trail to the USS Constitution Museum, there’s no shortage of fascinating sites to explore in this historic city.

Hidden Gems

While the top attractions along I-95 are certainly worth visiting, there are also plenty of hidden gems that are off the beaten path. Some of our favorites include:

The Outer Banks, North Carolina

This string of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina is a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With miles of pristine beaches, hiking trails, and water sports, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy.

St. Augustine, Florida

This historic city is often overlooked in favor of more popular Florida destinations, but it’s well worth a visit. From the Castillo de San Marcos to the St. Augustine Lighthouse, there’s plenty of history to explore in this charming town.

Providence, Rhode Island

This small but vibrant city is home to a thriving arts and culinary scene. Don’t miss the chance to visit the RISD Museum, sample some of the city’s famous seafood, or take a stroll along the picturesque Riverwalk.

Food Scene

One of the best things about traveling along I-95 is the chance to sample some of the country’s best cuisine. From seafood shacks to farm-to-table restaurants, there’s no shortage of delicious dining options. Some of our favorites include:

Crab cakes in Baltimore, Maryland

No trip to Baltimore is complete without sampling the city’s famous crab cakes. Head to Faidley Seafood in Lexington Market for some of the best in town.

Barbecue in North Carolina

North Carolina is famous for its barbecue, and there are plenty of places along I-95 to sample this southern delicacy. Check out Allen & Son in Chapel Hill for some of the best pulled pork in the state.

Lobster rolls in Maine

If you’re traveling to Maine, you can’t leave without trying a lobster roll. Head to The Lobster Shack at Two Lights for some of the freshest and most delicious lobster in the state.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Traveling along I-95 can be expensive, but there are plenty of ways to save money without sacrificing fun. Some of our top budget-friendly tips include:

Camping instead of hotels

There are plenty of campgrounds along I-95 where you can pitch a tent or park an RV for a fraction of the cost of a hotel room. Plus, camping allows you to get closer to nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

Using apps for deals

Apps like Groupon and LivingSocial offer discounts on everything from restaurants to attractions along I-95. Check them out before you hit the road to see what deals are available in your destination.

Visiting state parks

Many state parks along I-95 offer free admission or low-cost activities like hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Check out the state park system in each state you visit to see what budget-friendly options are available.

Outdoor Adventures

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll love the range of activities available along I-95. From kayaking to hiking to fishing, there’s something for everyone. Some of our top picks include:

The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail stretches from Georgia to Maine, passing through many of the states along I-95. Even if you’re not up for a thru-hike, there are plenty of day hikes and scenic vistas to enjoy.

Kayaking in the Everglades

The Everglades National Park in Florida offers some of the best kayaking in the country. Paddle through mangrove forests, spot wildlife like manatees and alligators, and soak up the unique beauty of this iconic park.

Fishing in the Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay is a paradise for anglers, with a variety of fish species to catch and stunning views to enjoy. Whether you prefer fly fishing or deep sea fishing, there are plenty of options to choose from along the bay.

Historical Landmarks

For history buffs, I-95 is a treasure trove of landmarks and sites that tell the story of America’s past. Some of our top picks include:

The Freedom Trail in Boston

This 2.5-mile trail takes visitors through some of Boston’s most important historical sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the site of the Boston Massacre.

The National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis

This powerful museum tells the story of America’s civil rights movement and the struggle for equality. Don’t miss the chance to see the balcony where Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated.

The Castillo de San Marcos in St. Augustine

This 17th-century fortress is the oldest masonry fort in the US and a National Monument. Explore the grounds, learn about the fort’s history, and take in stunning views of the city.

Family-Friendly Activities

If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of attractions and activities along I-95 that are fun for the whole family. Some of our top picks include:

The National Aquarium in Baltimore

This world-class aquarium is home to thousands of marine animals, including sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles. Kids will love the interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences.

The Children’s Museum of Richmond

This museum offers a range of interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages, from a giant kaleidoscope to a treehouse village. There’s even a toddler zone for the little ones.

Disney World in Orlando

No family trip to Florida is complete without a visit to Disney World. From the Magic Kingdom to Epcot to Animal Kingdom, there’s something for everyone at this iconic theme park.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

If you’re looking for unique and unusual experiences along I-95, you’re in luck. Some of our top picks include:

The Mystery Hole in West Virginia

This roadside attraction is a must-see for anyone passing through West Virginia. Visitors enter a small cabin and experience strange optical illusions that defy logic and reason.

The World’s Largest Ball of Twine in Kansas

This quirky attraction in Cawker City, Kansas, is exactly what it sounds like: a giant ball of twine that weighs over 20,000 pounds. Take a photo with the ball and add your own piece of twine to the collection.

The UFO Museum in Roswell, New Mexico

Whether you believe in aliens or not, the UFO Museum in Roswell is a fascinating and entertaining destination. Learn about the infamous Roswell Incident and explore exhibits on extraterrestrial life.

Natural Wonders

From mountains to beaches to national parks, I-95 is home to some of the country’s most stunning natural wonders. Some of our top picks include:

The Great Smoky Mountains

Straddling the border between Tennessee and North Carolina, the Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. With over 800 miles of trails and diverse wildlife, there’s plenty to explore in this iconic park.

The Florida Keys

This chain of islands off the coast of Florida offers a unique and beautiful landscape, with crystal-clear waters and colorful coral reefs. Go snorkeling, kayaking, or fishing, or simply relax on one of the many beaches.