Selma, North Carolina is a great overnight stop! Why? Consider this… you’ve traveled all day, you’re tired, hungry, the kids are wired… you get the picture. What you really need right about then is that perfect overnight stop… an exit where you feel safe and comfortable… an exit with a good mix of accommodations and a variety of eating places… not just fast food. And, maybe a little shopping later before you get back to the motel. The next morning you can gas up nearby and head out. Everything you need conveniently located right off the exit! That’s what makes this Selma, North Carolina exit a great overnight stop!
About Selma, North Carolina…
Selma is a charming small town conveniently located right off I-95 at Exit 97, making it an ideal overnight stop for travelers heading up and down the East Coast. This historic railroad town offers easy access to essential amenities including numerous hotels, gas stations, and restaurants—all just minutes from the highway. You’ll find everything from fast food to sit-down dining options, plus the town’s proximity to Smithfield (just 3 miles west) gives you even more choices for meals and shopping.
What makes Selma special is that it offers more than just highway convenience. The town provides a peaceful, safe atmosphere away from the interstate hustle, with friendly locals and affordable accommodations. If you have time in the morning, you can grab breakfast at one of the local diners or stretch your legs at nearby parks. The area also offers quick access to outlets and shopping centers if you need to pick up supplies, and you’re only about 30 minutes from Raleigh if you want to explore North Carolina’s capital city before continuing your journey.
Places to Stay in Selma…
Selma has two I-95 exits that make great overnight stops. This exit (97) is a bit quieter than the other (95), but some like it that way. None-the-less this exit may have just what you’re looking for. You’ll find Days Inn, EconoLodge, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham, Masters Inn, Night Inn by Hotel O, Quality Inn, and Royal Extended Stay Hotel conveniently located less than a mile from exiting I-95.
Our best bet is La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham – They have Free Wifi, family rooms and a convenience store. Restaurants are within walking distance too!
More lodging in Selma, NC – Book Your Room Now!
Places to Eat in Selma…
National chain restaurants as well as local favorites have locations right off this exit including Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits, Cook Out, Denny’s, Don Beto’s Tacos, Dunkin Donuts, Fry Daddy’s, Hardee’s, KFC, McDonald’s, Old North State Food Hall, Popeye’s Louisiana Kitchen, Robbins Nest, Waffle House, Wendy’s.
Check out the Old North State Food Hall. It’s the nation’s first roadside food hall. Food vendors in the hall currently include:
Aroma de Cuba (Cuban cuisine), Spice Me Up (Moroccan cuisine), Longleaf Tavern, Mr. Outrageous (burgers and sides), Pat Thai (Asian), White Swan Bar-B-Q and Fried Chicken, Wingy’s (Chicken wings)
Places to Shop in Selma…
While you won’t find much in the way of shopping options at this exit you will find Carolina Apparel, JR Cigar Outlet and Red River Western Wear. If you don’t mind traveling a mile or two, additional services are available west of this exit and then left at the 2nd traffic light.
Fuel Up and Head Out…
This exit includes BP, Citgo, Exxon (2), and Shell
More…
- 2 more miles south is Selma, NC, another recommended stopover exit.
- 24 more miles north is Wilson, NC, another recommended stopover exit.
- 48 more miles south is Fayetteville, NC, another recommended stopover exit.
In a Nutshell…
Selma, North Carolina (I‑95 Exit 97) is an easy, convenient overnight stop for travelers who want to break up a long drive without straying far from the interstate. With a solid mix of well-known hotels, plenty of dining choices, fuel and travel services close by, and quick access back onto I‑95, it’s a practical place to rest and recharge before getting back on the road. Whether you’re looking for a simple one-night stay or a comfortable stop with a few extra amenities, Exit 97 offers the essentials for a smooth, stress-free overnight in the heart of eastern North Carolina.
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