15 Best Places to Stop on I-95 on the Way to Florida

Bad coffee, cramped legs, and a blur of pine trees from Virginia to Georgia is how many describe their experience through the I-95 . But some of the best places to stop on I-95 on the way to Florida are hiding in plain sight, right off the exits you keep blowing past.

This is one of the most-traveled road trip corridors in the country. And it's full of incredible food, jaw-dropping history, and little detours that can turn a boring drive into a trip you actually remember. From the cobblestone streets of Savannah to the weird and wonderful roadside landmarks in the Carolinas, you've got options — and lots of them.

We put together 15 stops worth pulling off for, listed in order from north to south. Some are quick pit stops. Others are worth an overnight. All of them beat eating gas station pizza in a parking lot.

Key Takeaways

The best stops along I-95 headed to Florida include major cities like Baltimore, DC, Richmond, and Charleston, plus hidden gems like the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, South of the Border in SC, and St. Augustine once you cross into FL. You can break the drive into easy chunks and actually enjoy the ride.

Quick Picker:

• Best for families: Colonial Williamsburg, Kennedy Space Center, Daytona Beach

• Best for charm and history: Savannah, St. Augustine, Charleston

• Best budget-friendly: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, National Mall, Fredericksburg

• Best food stop: Baltimore Inner Harbor, Savannah, Charleston

• Best quirky detour: South of the Border

• Best beach break: Jacksonville Beach, Daytona Beach

Planning a road trip down I-95? Wayback Tours helps you save stops, build your own route, and keep track of every place you want to visit along the way.

What Makes I-95 Such a Great Road Trip Route?

Most people think of I-95 as a means to an end — a long, gray ribbon of asphalt connecting the Northeast to Florida. But if you zoom out, this highway actually passes through some of the most interesting cities, coastlines, and cultural pockets on the East Coast.

You'll drive through (or near) major metro areas like Baltimore, Washington DC, Richmond, and Jacksonville. In between, you've got small towns with killer barbecue, oddball roadside stops with decades of history, and nature that ranges from the Chesapeake Bay marshlands to the live oaks dripping with Spanish moss in coastal Georgia.

The key is knowing where to pull off. That's what this guide is for.

How to Break Up the Drive

If you're coming from the mid-Atlantic or the Northeast, you're looking at anywhere from 12 to 20 hours of driving depending on where you start. Trying to do that in one shot is a recipe for misery.

Here's a rough plan that works well for most people:

• Day 1: Start in the Northeast, aim for somewhere in Virginia or NC for the night. Fredericksburg and Richmond are both good place options for an overnight.

• Day 2: Push through the Carolinas and stop in Savannah, GA, or Brunswick. Both have great hotel options close to I-95.

• Day 3: Cruise into Florida and hit St. Augustine, Daytona, or wherever your final destination is — whether that's Orlando, the Space Coast, or points further south.

Breaking it into three days gives you time to actually see things. Two days works too, but you'll be spending more time behind the wheel.

For more help planning overnight stays, check out these best overnight stops on I-95.

The 15 Best Places to Stop on I-95 on the Way to Florida

Here are the best stops along I-95, listed from north to south so you can follow along as you go.

Baltimore Inner Harbor

You can see the water from the highway. That's how close the Inner Harbor is to I-95. And if you've never stopped in Baltimore, you're missing one of the best food-and-waterfront combos on the entire East Coast.

Don't skip this if you like… fresh seafood and walkable waterfronts. The Inner Harbor is packed with restaurant options — crab cakes are the obvious move, but you'll find everything from wood-fired pizza to Korean street food. The National Aquarium sits right on the water, and there are enough shops and street performers to keep you busy for an hour or an afternoon.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 53 off I-95 (follow signs to Inner Harbor)

• Time needed: 1–3 hours (more if you visit the Aquarium)

• Cost: Free to walk around; Aquarium tickets vary

• Parking: Paid garages and lots nearby

Worth it or skip it? Worth it, especially if you're starting your trip from the mid-Atlantic and want a memorable first stop.

⭐ What is a Bucket List? Save places you want to visit and come back to later. Your Wayback Tours bucket list keeps track of stops you don't want to forget — perfect for planning future trips.

Washington, D.C. — National Mall

I-95 skirts right past the nation's capital, and even if you've been before, the National Mall deserves another look. The Smithsonian museums alone could fill a week — and they're all free.

Why this one stands out: You don't have to pay a dime to see some of the best museums in the world. The National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, and the Museum of Natural History are all clustered along the Mall. Between museum visits, you can walk past the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Capitol Building.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Take I-395 from I-95 into DC (follow signs to the Mall)

• Time needed: 2–5 hours (easily a full day if you want)

• Cost: Free (museums and monuments are all free)

• Parking: Street parking is limited; Metro is easier

Worth it or skip it? Absolutely worth it if you have the time. Best for history buffs, families, and anyone who wants a free, world-class experience.

Fun Fact:

 The Smithsonian Institution is widely considered the world's largest museum complex, with dozens of museums and galleries — and general admission to all of them is free.

Fredericksburg, Virginia

Fredericksburg is one of those places that surprises people. It's about an hour south of DC, right off I-95, and the walkable downtown is full of independent shops, cafes, and a deep layer of Civil War history.

The quick pitch: If you want to stretch your legs somewhere that feels like a real town (not a highway rest stop), Fredericksburg delivers. The old town district has brick sidewalks, local restaurants, and a handful of battlefields within a few minutes' drive. It's also a solid overnight stop if you're breaking up the drive early.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 130 off I-95

• Time needed: 1–2 hours (or overnight)

• Cost: Free to explore downtown; battlefields have small fees

• Parking: Free and metered street parking in town

Worth it or skip it? Worth it for a lunch stop or an early overnight. Great for history fans and anyone who wants a quiet break from the highway.

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts — Richmond

Here's a stop most I-95 drivers don't know about, and it might be the best-kept secret on this list. The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Richmond is a world-class art museum — and it's free. Every day. All year.

What makes this stop different: This is one of the largest comprehensive art museums in the country, with a collection spanning thousands of years. They've got one of the biggest public collections of Fabergé outside of Russia, plus impressive galleries covering everything from ancient Egyptian artifacts to modern American sculpture. There's also a beautiful outdoor garden with glass installations, and two on-site restaurants if you want to sit down for a real meal.

The museum is less than 10 minutes off I-95 at the Boulevard exit in Richmond.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 78 (Boulevard/Arthur Ashe Blvd), Richmond, VA

• Hours: Open 365 days a year. Sat–Tue: 10am–5pm, Wed–Fri: 10am–9pm

• Time needed: 1–3 hours

• Cost: Free general admission (special exhibitions may have a fee)

• Parking: Free garage parking for members; paid for visitors

Worth it or skip it? Absolutely worth it. One of the best free cultural stops on the entire I-95 corridor. Great for art lovers, families, and anyone who wants a break that feeds the mind.

Fun Fact:

 The VMFA is said to be the only major art museum in the United States that's open 365 days a year with free general admission.

Colonial Williamsburg

It's about a 45-minute detour east from I-95 via I-64, but Colonial Williamsburg is one of those places that's hard to forget — especially if you're traveling with kids.

Don't skip this if you like… living history. The restored colonial district takes you back to the 1700s with costumed interpreters, working tradespeople, and original buildings. You can watch a blacksmith at work, sit in on a colonial trial, or just stroll the shady streets and soak it in. The surrounding area also has plenty of dining and hotel options if you want to make it an overnight stop.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Take I-64 East from I-95 (about 45 minutes)

• Time needed: 3 hours to a full day

• Cost: Walking the streets is free; ticketed areas vary

• Parking: Visitor center has free parking with shuttle service

Worth it or skip it? Worth the detour, especially for families. If you've got kids or a love for American history, this is one of the top attraction options near I-95.

Building a road trip bucket list? Wayback Tours makes it easy to save your favorite stops and plan the perfect route — all in one place.

South of the Border — Dillon, South Carolina

You'll see the billboards long before you see the place. For hundreds of miles, signs featuring a giant sombrero-wearing character named Pedro count down the distance to South of the Border, one of the most famous roadside stops on the East Coast.

Why this one stands out: Love it or laugh at it, South of the Border has been pulling in road-trippers since 1949. It's a massive, colorful complex with souvenir shops, restaurants, an arcade, a reptile exhibit, and a 200-foot observation tower shaped like a sombrero. Is it cheesy? Absolutely. Is it a genuine piece of American road trip history? Also yes.

It sits right at the NC/SC border, at I-95 Exit 1 in South Carolina.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 1, I-95, Hamer, SC (just south of the NC border)

• Time needed: 30 minutes to 1 hour

• Cost: Free to walk around; Sombrero Tower is a couple of dollars

• Hours: Open 24 hours (individual shops/attractions vary)

Worth it or skip it? Worth a quick stop for the experience, especially if you're traveling with kids or love quirky roadside attractions along I-95. Don't expect luxury — expect fun.

Fun Fact:

 South of the Border got its name because it sits just south of the North Carolina–South Carolina border. It opened in 1949 as a small beer stand and has grown into a sprawling roadside complex that has been a landmark for decades.

Florence, South Carolina

Florence might not be glamorous, but it's one of the most practical stops on I-95 through the Carolinas. It's roughly halfway between DC and Florida, which makes it a natural overnight stop — and a great place to fuel up (both the car and yourself).

The quick pitch: You'll find plenty of chain hotels, gas stations, and fast food right off the highway. But if you go a few minutes into town, there's a solid restaurant scene with local barbecue joints and Southern cooking that puts any drive-through to shame. Florence also has a surprisingly good civic center area if you want to stretch your legs.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 164 off I-95

• Time needed: Quick fuel stop or overnight

• Cost: Budget-friendly food and lodging

• Good to know: Gas tends to be cheaper in South Carolina than in neighboring states

Worth it or skip it? Worth it as a practical overnight stop. Not a tourist destination, but a smart one.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston is about an hour east of I-95 via I-26, and it's worth every minute of the detour. This city is widely considered one of the most beautiful in the country — and the food scene might be even better than the architecture.

What makes this stop different: Charleston has a way of making you slow down. The pastel-colored row houses of Rainbow Row, the historic City Market, and the waterfront parks all feel like they belong in a postcard. The restaurant scene here rivals much bigger cities — think fresh Lowcountry seafood, shrimp and grits, and James Beard Award-winning chefs tucked into historic buildings.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Take I-26 East from I-95 (about 1 hour)

• Time needed: Half a day to a full day (or an overnight)

• Cost: Free to walk around; restaurants and tours vary

• Parking: Metered and garage parking in the historic district

Worth it or skip it? Worth every minute. If you can only add one detour to your trip, make it Charleston. Best for couples, food lovers, and anyone who appreciates a beautiful city.

For more ideas for kid-friendly stops along I-95, we've got a separate guide for that too.

Hardeeville — Savannah Gateway

Right at the South Carolina–Georgia border, you'll hit Hardeeville. This is Buc-ee's territory — and if you haven't stopped at one yet, now's the time.

Don't skip this if you like… snacks, clean restrooms, and absurdly large gas stations. The Buc-ee's in this area has become a road trip destination in its own right — think walls of beef jerky, fresh-baked goods, and more drink options than most grocery stores. Even if you skip Buc-ee's, this exit cluster has plenty of gas, food, and lodging options to recharge before heading into Georgia.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 5 off I-95 in SC (near the GA border)

• Time needed: 20–45 minutes

• Cost: Whatever you spend on snacks (warning: it adds up)

Worth it or skip it? Worth it for the experience and the practical stop. Great for families and snack enthusiasts.

Savannah Historic District

If there's one stop on this list that gets people to actually extend their trip, it's Savannah. The historic district is one of the most walkable and photogenic neighborhoods in the entire South — and it's only about 15 minutes off I-95.

Why this one stands out: Savannah's charm hits you the moment you step under the live oaks draped in Spanish moss. The city was built around a series of public squares, each one shaded and peaceful. Forsyth Park is the crown jewel, with its famous fountain and wide paths perfect for a stroll. The food here is outstanding — from classic Southern staples to creative, modern takes on Lowcountry flavors. And the riverfront area has shops, restaurants, and views of cargo ships gliding by.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 99 off I-95, then follow signs to the Historic District

• Time needed: 3 hours to a full day (or overnight)

• Cost: Free to walk around; tours, food, and parking vary

• Parking: Paid lots and metered street parking

Worth it or skip it? One of the top stops on the entire I-95 corridor. Worth an overnight if your schedule allows it. Best for couples, photographers, and anyone who loves Southern food and history.

Love saving road trip stops? Wayback Tours lets you build your dream route one stop at a time — and your bucket list travels with you.

Brunswick and the Golden Isles

Brunswick is an underrated gem about an hour south of Savannah on I-95. It's the gateway to the Golden Isles — St. Simons Island, Jekyll Island, and Sea Island — and the town itself has a laid-back, coastal vibe that feels worlds away from the interstate.

The quick pitch: If you want a beach or nature break without fighting tourist crowds, Brunswick delivers. The historic downtown is small but interesting, and a quick drive across the causeway puts you on St. Simons Island, where you'll find a lighthouse, bike-friendly paths, and some of the freshest seafood on the Georgia coast. Jekyll Island, once a retreat for America's wealthiest families, has a park-like feel with gorgeous beaches and historic buildings.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 38 off I-95

• Time needed: 1–3 hours (or overnight)

• Cost: Jekyll Island has a small parking fee; St. Simons is free

• Good to know: Excellent seafood restaurants in both Brunswick and on the islands

Worth it or skip it? Worth it if you want a slower pace and coastal scenery. A great overnight option that most I-95 drivers skip.

Jacksonville Beach

You made it to Florida. And what better way to celebrate than putting your feet in the sand? Jacksonville Beach is one of the first beach-accessible stops once you cross into the Sunshine State, and it's a quick detour east from I-95.

What makes this stop different: Unlike some of Florida's more developed beach towns, Jacksonville Beach still has a laid-back, locals-first feel. The playground areas near the pier are great for families, and the beachside restaurants serve up solid fish tacos, burgers, and cold drinks. It's a perfect place to decompress after a long stretch through Georgia and northern FL.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 341 off I-95, then east toward the coast

• Time needed: 1–3 hours

• Cost: Free beach access; metered parking

• Good to know: The pier area is walkable with plenty of casual dining

Worth it or skip it? Worth it if you've been driving all day and need a real break. Especially great for families and beach lovers.

St. Augustine

St. Augustine is widely considered the oldest European-established settlement in the United States, and walking through its streets, you can feel that history everywhere. It's also one of the most popular stops on I-95 in Florida — and for good reason.

Don't skip this if you like… cobblestone streets, old forts, lighthouses, and a downtown that feels more European than American. Castillo de San Marcos, the massive stone fortress on the waterfront, is the big draw — but the rest of the historic district is packed with shops, galleries, restaurant options, and ghost tours after dark. The St. Augustine Lighthouse offers panoramic views from the top if you're up for the climb.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 311 off I-95

• Time needed: 3 hours to a full day (worth an overnight)

• Cost: Fort admission varies; walking the district is free

• Parking: Paid lots near the historic district

Worth it or skip it? One of the must-do stops on this list. Worth an overnight if you can swing it. Best for history lovers, couples, and families.

If you're looking for even more ideas in this part of the country, we've also rounded up some great roadside attractions along I-95.

Daytona Beach

Daytona is one of those places where the name says it all. Famous for motorsports, spring break, and miles of wide, hard-packed sand — you can even drive on parts of the beach here, which is a uniquely Florida experience.

Why this one stands out: Beyond the beach itself, Daytona has a fun boardwalk area with rides, games, and snack shops that feel like a throwback to classic American beach towns. The Daytona International Speedway is nearby if you're a motorsports fan. And the Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse, one of the tallest in the state, is worth the short drive for the views alone.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 261 off I-95

• Time needed: 2–4 hours

• Cost: Beach driving requires a small fee in some areas; boardwalk is free to walk

• Good to know: The beach is wide and family-friendly with lifeguards in season

Worth it or skip it? Worth it, especially for families and motorsports fans. A classic Florida beach town with plenty to do.

Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

If you're headed to Orlando or anywhere in central Florida, the Kennedy Space Center is a short detour that will leave you speechless — especially if you've never seen a real rocket up close.

What makes this stop different: This is where NASA launches missions into space. The visitor complex lets you get up close to actual rockets, see launch pads, and walk through exhibits that trace the entire history of American space exploration. The Atlantis shuttle exhibit is a jaw-dropper. And if your timing is right, you might even catch a live rocket launch from a viewing area.

What you need to know before you go:

• Location/Exit: Exit 215 off I-95, then east on SR-407/SR-405

• Time needed: 4–6 hours (full day recommended)

• Cost: Tickets are around $75 for adults (check the website for current pricing)

• Good to know: Arrive early to beat the crowds and get the most out of your visit

Worth it or skip it? Worth every penny. One of the top family-friendly stops in all of Florida. Also fantastic for solo travelers, science fans, and anyone who's ever looked up at the stars and wondered.

Tips for Making the Most of Your I-95 Drive

A few things that can make or break your trip:

Fill up in South Carolina. Gas tends to be cheaper in SC than in most neighboring states. Top off before you cross into Georgia or North Carolina.

Avoid rush hours near cities. DC, Baltimore, Jacksonville — all of these can add hours to your drive if you hit them at the wrong time. Early morning or after 7pm is your friend.

Download offline maps. Cell service can get spotty through parts of the Carolinas and rural Georgia. Having your route downloaded ahead of time saves headaches.

Pack snacks, but plan real meals. Some of the best meals of your trip will happen at stops along the way. Don't fill up on gas station food when there's fresh Lowcountry seafood 10 minutes off the highway.

For even more stop ideas — especially if you're traveling with kids — check out these kid-friendly stops along I-95.

Conclusion

There's no rule that says a drive down I-95 has to be boring. The best places to stop on I-95 on the way to Florida are spread across eight states — from the crab cakes in Baltimore to the rockets at Kennedy Space Center. Each one gives you a reason to slow down, get off the highway, and make the drive part of the trip instead of something you just survive.

Whether you're planning a quick two-day dash or a slow week-long adventure, the stops are there. You just have to take the exit.

Save these stops, build your own road trip bucket list, and keep track of every place you want to visit — all in one place with Wayback Tours.

FAQs

What is the best halfway point on I-95 between New York and Florida?

Florence, South Carolina, and Fayetteville, North Carolina, are both popular midway stops with plenty of hotel and restaurant options right off the interstate.

How many days should I plan for driving I-95 to Florida?

Most people find that two to three days is ideal. Two days works if you want to minimize stops, but three days gives you time to explore places like Savannah, Charleston, or St. Augustine.

Are there good rest areas along I-95?

Yes, every state along I-95 has official rest areas and welcome centers. Virginia and Florida tend to have some of the nicest facilities, but plan on stopping at real towns when you can for better food and more to do.

What is the most scenic section of I-95 headed south?

The stretch through coastal Georgia — between Savannah and Jacksonville — is one of the most pleasant, with flat terrain, live oaks, and marsh views. The approach into St. Augustine also has a distinctly Florida feel once you see the palm trees.

Is it cheaper to drive I-95 to Florida or fly?

For a solo traveler, flying is often comparable or cheaper. But for families of three or more, driving usually wins — especially when you factor in luggage, car rental, and the freedom to stop wherever you want along the way.