Block Island to Solomons: A Coastal Road Trip Guide

The drive from Block Island, RI to Solomons, MD covers roughly 400 miles, typically taking 7–8 hours without stops. A quirky detail: Block Island was once a haven for rumrunners during Prohibition, and its Southeast Light guided ships to shore—now a museum. The route blends coastal highways and Chesapeake Bay views.

This guide answers: how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities. We break down logistics, landscapes, food, and family-friendly spots to make the journey worthwhile.

Start on Block Island by taking the Block Island Ferry to Point Judith, RI (55 min). From there, follow US-1 South to I-95 South through Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York. Around New Haven, you can switch to the scenic Merritt Parkway (CT-15) to avoid I-95 traffic. Merge back to I-95 near the New York state line. Continue south through New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland. Near Washington, DC, take MD-4 South to Solomons, MD.

• Ferry: Block Island Ferry (car ferry operates seasonally; reservations recommended).
• Alternate route: I-95 via Baltimore for faster time, but more traffic.
• Tolls: Expect tolls on I-95 in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and Delaware (EZ-Pass recommended).

Fuel stops: Gas stations are frequent along I-95, but prices vary. Fill up in Delaware (no sales tax on fuel) to save money. The average fuel cost for the trip is about $50–$70 depending on vehicle. Rest stops every 30–50 miles offer restrooms and vending.

Road quality is generally excellent on interstates, but watch for congestion near New York City (especially around the George Washington Bridge). Use rest areas every 2 hours to combat fatigue. Top family stops include:

• Mystic Aquarium (Mystic, CT) – off I-95, exit 90. Features beluga whales and a penguin exhibit.
• Children's Museum of Indianapolis (IN) – too far; better: American Visionary Art Museum in Baltimore (MD-2).
• Sandy Hook Beach (NJ) – a detour to the Jersey Shore, with a historic lighthouse.

Pet-friendly framework: Most rest stops allow pets on leash, but not all. Many hotels along the route are pet-friendly (e.g., La Quinta). Carry water and waste bags. Hidden off-route spot: Cape May County Park & Zoo (NJ) – free admission, 15 min off the Garden State Parkway.

The route passes through diverse landscapes: the rocky coast of Rhode Island, the rolling hills of Connecticut, the Pine Barrens of New Jersey, and the Chesapeake Bay estuary. A highlight is the Chesapeake Bay Bridge (US-50/301) near Annapolis, offering sweeping bay views. In Solomons, the Calvert Marine Museum showcases local maritime history and fossilized Miocene sharks' teeth.

• Block Island: Mohegan Bluffs (clay cliffs) and the North Light lighthouse.
• New Jersey: Delaware Water Gap (scenic drive) near the border.
• Maryland: Calvert Cliffs State Park for fossil hunting and hiking.

Local commerce varies: In Rhode Island, roadside clam shacks sell clam cakes and chowder. In New Jersey, farm stands offer fresh produce and saltwater taffy. Solomons' boardwalk features seafood restaurants and boutique shops selling art from local painters.