Planning a road trip down the East Coast? I-95 is packed with exciting, educational, and relaxing stops that are perfect for families traveling with kids. From hands-on museums to quirky roadside attractions and natural wonders, each stop offers a break from the drive and a chance to make meaningful memories together.
Traveling down I-95 is one of the easiest ways to explore the East Coast, and it’s especially convenient for families looking to experience a blend of history, nature, entertainment, and relaxation. Whether you’re starting in Maine or heading south to Florida, there are plenty of places along the way that are ideal for kids of all ages—and their parents too.
Here are some of the best family-friendly stops along I-95 that are worth taking a little time for.
Boston Children’s Museum
308 Congress Street, Boston, MA 02210
Located along the Fort Point Channel in Boston’s Seaport District, the Boston Children’s Museum is a paradise for young explorers. Children can climb a three-story New Balance Climb, play with bubbles, explore a Japanese house, or create art in the Kid Power exhibit. Everything is designed with fun, discovery, and age-appropriate learning in mind. The museum is stroller-friendly, and there’s a waterfront park outside for post-visit downtime.
Hours:
Wed–Sun, 9 AM–4 PM (opens 10 AM first Saturday/month)
Admission:
Adults & children (1–15): $22; infants under 12 mo.: free; $1 Sunday afternoons 1–4 PM.
Time to Visit:
Plan 2–3 hours.
Website:
https://bostonchildrensmuseum.org/
The Dinosaur Place at Nature’s Art Village
1650 Hartford-New London Turnpike, Oakdale, CT 06370
This 60-acre outdoor adventure park in southeastern Connecticut brings dinosaurs to life with more than 40 life-sized models set along nature trails. There’s a splash pad, maze, and multiple playgrounds—including the massive T-Rex Tower for climbing and sliding fun. It’s ideal for kids 3–10 and includes shaded picnic areas, so bring a lunch or grab snacks from the gift shop. Allow at least 2–3 hours to enjoy everything.
Hours:
Daily 10 AM–6 PM (last entry 5 PM); T‑Rex Tower & Splash Pad 10:30 AM–5 PM
Admission (peak season):
Toddlers (2–5): $29.95; Kids (6–17): $32.95; Adults (18–59): $29.95; Seniors (60+): $28.99
Time to Visit:
Allow at least 2–3 hours to enjoy everything.
Website:
https://naturesartvillage.com/
Liberty Science Center
222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07305
Just across the river from Manhattan in Liberty State Park, Liberty Science Center offers four floors of immersive exhibits. Families can explore live animal habitats, a suspended climbing maze, a live touch tank, and the enormous Jennifer Chalsty Planetarium. There’s also a dedicated space for younger children called the I Explore Gallery. On-site parking is available, and the center has a full café for a midday break.
Hours:
Generally 10 AM–4 PM/5 PM depending on day—but check calendar for current times
Admission:
Around $30 adult; $25 child (6–12); membership or free for kids under 2
Time to Visit:
3-4 hours to enjoy everything
Website:
http://www.lsc.org/
Smithsonian Museums & National Zoo
National Mall, Washington, D.C. | National Zoo: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
A brief detour off I-95 via I-495 leads to the heart of American history, science, and culture. The National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History are two top picks for families, offering dinosaurs, space shuttles, and hands-on discovery centers—all with free admission. The National Zoo is another free stop, home to pandas, elephants, and wide shaded walkways. Allow a half or full day to explore.
Hours:
Generally 10 AM–5:30 PM (varies); Zoo: 8 AM–4 PM; check specific sites.
Admission:
All free
Time to Visit:
Allow a half or full day to explore.
Website:
https://nationalzoo.si.edu/
Kings Dominion
16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, VA 23047
Located just north of Richmond, Kings Dominion offers more than 60 rides and attractions for all ages, including Planet Snoopy for younger children and Soak City water park during the summer. Families can enjoy thrill rides or slow things down with a float along the lazy river. Plenty of dining options and family rest areas make this a comfortable stop for a half or full day.
Hours:
Varies seasonally—typically 10 AM–10 PM; check calendar.
Admission:
Online adult ticket starts around $65; at gate around $80; discount options available.
Time to Visit:
You’ll need a full day to visit this park
Website:
https://www.kingsdominion.com/
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
11 West Jones Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
Easily accessible from I-95 via I-40 and I-440, this museum provides a peaceful and engaging environment with four floors of educational exhibits. Visitors can view real dinosaur fossils, explore the life sciences through interactive labs, and visit the Living Conservatory filled with butterflies and tropical animals. Admission is free, and the attached Nature Research Center adds even more for curious kids to discover.
Hours:
Tue–Sun 10 AM–5 PM (closed Mondays)
Admission:
Free (donations accepted); extra shows/exhibits may cost (e.g., 3D theater)
Time to Visit:
3-4 hours
Website:
https://naturalsciences.org/
South of the Border
3346 US-301, Hamer, SC 29547
An unmistakable roadside stop just off the highway at the SC/NC border, South of the Border is famous for its colorful signs, oversized statues, and old-school Americana charm. While quirky and a bit kitschy, kids will love the photo ops, reptile lagoon, playground, and arcade. There are several quick food options and large restrooms, making this a fun place to take a 30-60 minute break.
Hours:
Shops and attractions around 9 AM–7 PM (verify on travel day)
Admission:
Free; pay per activity (arcade, mini golf, reptile lagoon)
Time to Visit:
1-2 hours
Website:
https://www.sobpedro.com/
Savannah Historic District
📍 301 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Savannah, GA 31401 (Visitor Center)
This walkable, oak-draped city offers a peaceful yet engaging experience for families. Stroll through Forsyth Park, complete with fountains and a playground, then grab a scoop at Leopold’s Ice Cream. River Street offers shops and views of container ships, while horse-drawn carriages and historic squares give kids space to roam. It’s a wonderful destination to slow the pace, stretch your legs, and enjoy a meal together.
Hours:
Public greenspaces 24/7; Visitor Center 9 AM–5 PM
Admission:
Free to walk; attractions vary (e.g., riverboat $20+)
Time to Visit:
Plan 2–4 hours or more to visit Savannah’s Historic District
Website:
https://visitsavannah.com/
St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park
999 Anastasia Boulevard, St. Augustine, FL 32080
Just minutes from downtown St. Augustine and a short detour off I-95, this zoological park is home to every species of crocodilian on Earth. In addition to gators, families will see birds, monkeys, and even giant tortoises. Kids can feed animals, watch live shows, and walk the elevated boardwalks. The park is shady and compact enough to be enjoyed in 1–2 hours.
Hours:
Open daily 9 AM–5 PM
Admission:
Adults (12+): $35.99; Children (3–11): $20.99; under 3 free. Wheelchair discounts apply.
Time to Visit:
A well-shaded 1–2 hour visit
Website:
https://www.alligatorfarm.com/
Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
📍 Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953
Located east of I-95 near Titusville, the Kennedy Space Center is the crown jewel for space-loving families. From the Space Shuttle Atlantis to interactive astronaut simulators and a real Saturn V rocket, this destination inspires wonder. Kids can explore Mars exhibits, touch a moon rock, or even meet an astronaut. Launch schedule permitting, you might witness a rocket takeoff. Plan at least 4–5 hours to fully explore the complex.
Hours:
Daily 9 AM–5 PM; last entry 4 PM
Admission:
1-day adult ticket: ~$75 gate, $69–75 online
2-day adult ticket: ~$89 gate
Parking: cars $15; RVs $20
Time to Visit:
Plan on 4-6 hours to take in all the exhibits
Website:
https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/
Planning Tips
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Check official websites | Hours/prices may change seasonally or for events |
| Reserve ahead | Museums & big attractions often require timed-entry |
| Time allocation | Spend realistic time: 1–2 hrs for smaller stops, 3–6 hrs for bigger ones |
| Snacks & breaks | Travel-ready snacks are lifesavers between stops |
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