I-95 is one of America’s busiest and most iconic highways, a road trip stretching over 1,900 miles from the rocky coast of Maine to the sunny shores of Florida. Along the way, millions of travelers zoom past landscapes that blend into one another—cities, exits, rest stops, and familiar fast food signs. But just off the Interstate lie some of the country’s most charming, quiet, and overlooked small towns. These hidden gems offer a chance to slow down, reconnect, and savor the beauty of local life.
If you’re planning an I-95 road trip, consider pausing your drive to explore some of these delightful small towns. From historic main streets to cozy cafes, picturesque parks to quirky museums, these destinations may be small in size but are rich in personality. To make your adventure even more enjoyable, we’ve included a few helpful insider tips and transitions to guide your journey from state to state.
From New England to the Mid-Atlantic: Colonial Roots and Coastal Charm
INSIDER TIP…
“A road trip through the northern section of I-95 is most pleasant in late spring and early fall, when you can enjoy smaller crowds and vibrant foliage. Bring comfortable walking shoes—many towns feature cobblestone streets and scenic trails. Don’t forget to check local calendars for farmers markets and art festivals that often occur on weekends.”
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Exit 7 off I-95
This colonial port city thrives on character and creativity. Begin your visit at the Strawbery Banke Museum, a 10-acre living history site with costumed interpreters and restored homes. The Prescott Park Arts Festival offers live performances in a waterfront garden setting. For a taste of local culture, try Portsmouth Brewery or grab a maple bacon donut from local favorite, Donut Love. Take a sunset cruise or simply meander the Market Square area, full of music, murals, and maritime soul.
Stonington, Connecticut
Exit 91 off I-95
This seaside village, founded in 1649, retains its old-world charm with narrow streets, stone walls, and 18th-century architecture. Wander through Stonington Borough, a quiet enclave dotted with boutiques, historic homes, and harbor views. Visit the Old Lighthouse Museum, perched on the point with sweeping vistas of Fishers Island Sound. For lunch, Dog Watch Café offers waterfront seating and local favorites like clam chowder and lobster rolls. Just offshore, you might spot sailboats drifting by as you enjoy the ocean breeze.
New Castle, Delaware
Exit 5A off I-295/I-95 split
Founded by the Dutch in 1651, New Castle is like walking through a living museum. Cobblestone streets, colonial homes, and public squares create a tranquil yet vibrant atmosphere. Stop by the New Castle Court House Museum to learn about Delaware’s push for independence. Jessop’s Tavern, located in a 300-year-old building, offers hearty fare and historical ambiance. The town green frequently hosts art fairs and seasonal events, while Battery Park along the Delaware River is perfect for a quiet riverside stroll.
Havre de Grace, Maryland
Exit 89 off I-95
Named by General Lafayette after the French port city, Havre de Grace combines history with maritime charm. The town’s crown jewel is the scenic Promenade, a wooden boardwalk that hugs the shoreline of the Susquehanna River. Concord Point Lighthouse, built in 1827, marks the entrance to the Chesapeake Bay. The Decoy Museum pays tribute to the region’s waterfowling heritage. In town, antique shops and local galleries create a relaxed, artsy vibe. Don’t leave without sampling crab cakes from a riverside eatery.
Into the Carolinas: Southern Hospitality and Riverfront Beauty
INSIDER TIP:
“If you’re I-95 road trip takes you through the Carolinas in summer, start your day early to avoid the afternoon heat. Local diners serve excellent Southern breakfasts—grits, biscuits, and all. Many small towns host free live music events in the park during summer evenings.”
Smithfield, North Carolina
Exit 95 off I-95
Nestled along the Neuse River, Smithfield offers a warm welcome and rich cultural roots. Visit the Ava Gardner Museum to celebrate the life of the silver screen legend who called this town home. Stroll along the Neuse Riverwalk, a peaceful, tree-lined path popular with locals. The historic downtown boasts brick storefronts, boutique shops, and locally-owned restaurants like Simple Twist, known for its creative Southern cuisine. Each spring, the Ham & Yam Festival fills the streets with live music and food vendors.
Dillon, South Carolina
Exit 193 off I-95
Though often bypassed for its kitschy South of the Border attraction, Dillon rewards those who venture beyond the billboards. The Dillon County Museum offers insight into the town’s agricultural heritage. Stroll through Harmon Park or paddle the serene waters of Little Pee Dee State Park. serves up locally inspired dishes in a casual setting. Saturday mornings bring the town to life with a small farmers market, perfect for picking up homemade treats and chatting with residents.
Darien, Georgia
Exit 49 off I-95
Established in 1736 by Scottish Highlanders, Darien is one of Georgia’s oldest towns. Spanish moss hangs lazily from centuries-old oaks, and the waterfront teems with shrimp boats and coastal birds. Explore the tabby ruins of Fort King George, where colonial soldiers once stood guard. Grab a bite at Skipper’s Fish Camp, then take a walk along the waterfront boardwalk. If time permits, book a boat tour to Sapelo Island for a glimpse into one of the last remaining Gullah-Geechee communities.
Coastal Retreats: From Georgia to the Sunshine State
INSIDER TIP:
“Have insect repellent handy if you’re road trip take you through the south during humid months, especially near marshes or waterfront areas. Many of these towns have free or low-cost public parking, but weekends can fill up fast. Book dining reservations in advance if you’re arriving on a Friday or Saturday.”
Brunswick, Georgia
Exit 36B off I-95
Tucked between Savannah and Jacksonville, Brunswick’s Victorian-era downtown and coastal vistas make it a rewarding stop. Historic Newcastle Street is lined with colorful buildings, antique stores, and inviting bistros like Indigo Coastal Shanty, which fuses Southern, Caribbean, and international flavors. Take a stroll along the Marshes of Glynn Boardwalk for a tranquil view of Georgia’s low country wetlands. Ferries to the Golden Isles—Jekyll, St. Simons, and Sea Island—depart nearby, making Brunswick a perfect base for coastal exploration.
Fernandina Beach, Florida
Exit 373 off I-95
Located on Amelia Island, this Victorian-era town blends coastal beauty with historic charm. Fernandina’s downtown is a grid of pastel-painted storefronts, antique shops, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Palace Saloon, Florida’s oldest bar. Fort Clinch State Park offers trails through maritime forests and cannon demonstrations at a Civil War-era fortress. On the first weekend of May, the town hosts the Isle of Eight Flags Shrimp Festival, a celebration of its seafaring roots.
Detours Worth the Drive: History, Nature, and Culture
INSIDER TIP:
“A slight detour from I-95 can lead to a fuller, richer road trip. Keep snacks and water in your car, and download offline maps for areas with limited cell service. Local welcome centers often provide free walking tour maps and tips for things to do.”
Kennebunkport, Maine
Exit 25 off I-95, then a short drive east
With its postcard-perfect harbor and presidential history, Kennebunkport radiates coastal charm. Visit Dock Square to browse art galleries and handmade crafts, or dine on fresh lobster at The Clam Shack, an iconic roadside stop. Explore the historic district with its white-steepled churches and sea captain’s homes, or take a scenic drive along Ocean Avenue for sweeping Atlantic views. Nearby beaches like Goose Rocks and Colony Beach offer quiet respites for sunbathing and tide pooling.
Camden, South Carolina
Exit 98 off I-20, a brief detour from I-95
As South Carolina’s oldest inland city, Camden offers a graceful blend of antebellum architecture and equestrian legacy. Tour the Camden Archives and Museum to explore Revolutionary War artifacts, or walk the tree-lined streets past historic homes. If you’re in town during March, don’t miss the Carolina Cup steeplechase—a festive mix of horse racing and Southern socializing. Downtown, browse antiques, sip coffee at Books on Broad, and enjoy the town’s refined but welcoming pace.
Petersburg, Virginia
Exit 52 off I-95
A city steeped in Civil War history, Petersburg invites travelers to step back in time. The Petersburg National Battlefield preserves the story of the nine-month siege that led to the fall of Richmond. Wander Old Towne Petersburg, where restored 18th- and 19th-century buildings now house artisan shops, galleries, and cafés. Grab lunch at Trapezium Brewing, known for wood-fired pizzas and craft brews served in a historic ice and coal warehouse. If you’re visiting on the first Friday of the month, join the lively art crawl featuring local musicians and street performers.
Scenic Stops for Nature Lovers and Foodies Alike
INSIDER TIP:
“Look for farmers’ markets or roadside stands along the way. Many small towns offer seasonal produce, homemade jams, and artisan crafts. Local visitor centers often list nearby hiking trails and birdwatching hotspots.”
Santee, South Carolina
Exit 98 off I-95
This lakeside town is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Lake Marion, the largest lake in South Carolina, offers world-class bass fishing, kayaking, and birding. Visit Santee State Park for hiking trails that wind through cypress swamps and longleaf pine forests. Clark’s Inn and Restaurant, a family-run institution since 1946, serves hearty Southern meals with a side of charm. Don’t miss the elevated boardwalk near the park’s entrance—it offers stunning sunset views over the water.
Dunn, North Carolina
Exit 73 off I-95
Dunn’s rich military history and small-town atmosphere make it worth a detour. The General William C. Lee Airborne Museum honors the father of the U.S. Airborne with immersive exhibits housed in his former home. Downtown Dunn features locally owned shops, a mural trail, and the restored Stewart Theater, which hosts community plays and concerts. Grab a sandwich at Broad Street Deli and check out the town’s vibrant fall festival, which draws visitors with live music, food trucks, and crafts.
Belfast, Maine
Exit 113, then Route 3 East
This picturesque coastal town blends New England tradition with a funky, creative vibe. Located at the mouth of the Passagassawakeag River, Belfast is known for its working waterfront and red-brick downtown. Chase’s Daily, a vegetarian restaurant and art gallery, is a local treasure inside a restored department store. Wander the Belfast Rail Trail or rent a kayak to explore the harbor. On Fridays in summer, the Art Walk showcases the town’s thriving community of painters, sculptors, and potters.
Why These Small Towns Matter
In a world that often prioritizes speed and efficiency, these towns offer something rare and valuable: a chance to pause. Whether you’re gazing at a harbor, chatting with a shopkeeper, or savoring a slice of homemade pie, these moments help us remember why we travel in the first place.
An I-95 road trip doesn’t have to be a blur of gas stations and rest areas. With a bit of curiosity and a willingness to explore, the highway becomes a gateway to experiences you can’t get from a guidebook or an app. These towns, each with its own character and cadence, invite you to step off the beaten path and into a slower, more meaningful journey.
So next time you find yourself traveling down I-95, keep your eyes open for the signs pointing to something smaller, quieter, and possibly unforgettable. Hidden treasures await—all you have to do is take the exit.
I-95 Road Trip Travel Checklist
Before You Go:
- Check your vehicle’s oil, brakes, and tire pressure
- Update GPS apps and download offline maps
- Print or save a list of exit numbers for featured towns
- Pack sunscreen, insect repellent, and reusable water bottles
- Reserve accommodations in advance for popular areas
Road Trip Essentials:
- Sunglasses and comfortable driving shoes
- Power bank and phone charger
- Cooler with snacks and drinks
- Travel journal or notepad
- Printed itinerary with addresses and hours of key stops
For Exploring Small Towns:
- Walking shoes for historic downtowns and nature trails
- Cash for farmers markets and roadside stands
- Local guides or brochures from visitor centers
- Camera for capturing scenic spots
- Extra tote bag for souvenirs, crafts, and local goodies
Bonus Tips:
- Call ahead for museum hours and seasonal events
- Take advantage of visitor center restrooms and free maps
- Stay flexible—some of the best stops aren’t on any map
Now you’re ready to explore the hidden heart of the East Coast. Safe travels and happy detouring!
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Traveling another route? Visit our growing family of exit guides: I-4 Exit Guide, I-5 Exit Guide, I-10 Exit Guide, I-75 Exit Guide, I-80 Exit Guide and I-95 Exit Guide. Detailed exit service listings… discount lodging, camping, food, gas and more for every exit along the way!
