Washington DC to Block Island RI Road Trip Guide

Block Island sits 12 miles off the Rhode Island coast, accessible only by ferry. The drive from Washington, DC covers roughly 400 miles, crossing the Chesapeake Bay, the New Jersey Pine Barrens, and the Long Island Sound.

This route blends urban corridors with quiet coastal highways. The final approach via the Block Island Ferry from New London, CT or Montauk, NY adds a maritime layer to the journey.

For tips on uncovering hidden gems along any route, see how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Fuel costs along I-95 fluctuate. Expect prices near $3.50/gallon in Maryland and lower in New Jersey due to state taxes.

• Best fuel stops: Wawa in Delaware (I-95 exit 1) and Love's in Connecticut (I-95 exit 63).
• Tolls: Several on I-95 in Delaware, New Jersey, and New York. E-ZPass recommended.
• Ferry fare: Round-trip for car + driver ~$100; reservations essential in summer.

Road quality is excellent on interstates but deteriorates on local roads near Block Island. The final stretch to the ferry in New London is well-paved.

Rest areas are frequent on I-95 in Maryland and Delaware. The Delaware Welcome Center offers clean facilities and a tourist info desk.

I-95 between Baltimore and New York has heavy traffic. Plan for delays near Philadelphia and New Haven. Use rest areas every 2 hours.

• Family-friendly stops: Adventure Park USA (Maryland), Liberty Science Center (New Jersey), Mystic Aquarium (Connecticut).
• Pet-friendly: Assateague Island National Seashore (leashed) and Hammonasset Beach State Park (pet area).
• Fatigue management: Coffee stops at Sheetz (Delaware) or Dunkin' (Massachusetts).

Hidden off-route spots: The abandoned town of Bombay Hook, DE and the ghost village of East Haven, CT. These detours add less than 30 minutes.

Infrastructure safety is high; roadside assistance is plentiful. The ferry ride can be rough in bad weather – check forecasts.

Crossing the Chesapeake Bay Bridge provides panoramic views of the bay. The New Jersey Pine Barrens offer a flat, forested landscape with rare flora.

• Cape May wetlands: birdwatching for migrating shorebirds.
• Montauk Point: glacial moraine cliffs and the iconic lighthouse.
• Block Island bluffs: dramatic clay cliffs at Mohegan Bluffs.

Local commerce thrives on seafood. Clam shacks dot the Connecticut coast. In Mystic, the Mystic Seaport Museum combines maritime history with shipbuilding.

Farm stands in Delaware sell sweet corn and peaches seasonally. Block Island's small harbor has boutique shops and lobster rolls at The Oar.