Plan Your New York to Florida Road Trip With Kids
The New York to Florida road trip along I-95 is one of America's most traveled family routes. This 1,100-mile journey passes through historic cities, amazing playgrounds, and beautiful coastal scenery. SmartStops helps you find the perfect stops to make this East Coast adventure enjoyable for the whole family.
Route Stats
1,100 miles (to Orlando)
Total Distance
16-18 hours driving
Drive Time
5-6 stops
Recommended Stops
2-3 days recommended
Total Trip Time
Spring or Fall
Best Season
Recommended Stops with Playgrounds
Stop 1: Philadelphia, PA
95 miles from NYC • 2 hours from start
Smith Memorial Playground - Historic adventure playground
Wawa, Sunoco along I-95
La Colombe, Starbucks
First major stop with an incredible playground. Smith Memorial is worth the detour - kids can spend hours here.
Stop 2: Baltimore, MD
190 miles from NYC • 3.5 hours from start
Patterson Park - Large playground with pagoda views
Royal Farms, Wawa nearby
Ceremony Coffee, Starbucks
Great lunch stop. Inner Harbor has family attractions, or head to Patterson Park for outdoor play.
Stop 3: Washington, DC
230 miles from NYC • 4-5 hours from start
Constitution Gardens - Near the National Mall
Shell, BP in surrounding areas
Compass Coffee, Starbucks
Consider an overnight here. Free museums, monuments, and plenty of green space for kids to run.
Stop 4: Richmond, VA
340 miles from NYC • 5.5-6 hours from start
Maymont Park - Victorian estate with nature center and playground
Wawa, Sheetz along I-95
Lamplighter Coffee, Starbucks
Underrated stop with a fantastic free nature park. Kids love the animals and playground.
Stop 5: Raleigh-Durham, NC
490 miles from NYC • 8-9 hours from start
Pullen Park - America's 5th oldest amusement park with playground
Sheetz, BP along I-40/I-95
Jubala Coffee, Starbucks
Perfect overnight stop. Pullen Park has a carousel, train, and paddle boats plus great playground.
Tips for This Route
Best Time to Leave NYC
Leave very early (5 AM) or wait until after 10 AM to avoid NY/NJ traffic. The Delaware Memorial Bridge can back up on weekends.
Weather Considerations
Weather changes significantly as you head south. Pack layers and expect warmer temperatures after Virginia. Hurricane season is June-November.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
I-95 through DC is brutal - consider the I-95/301 bypass. Don't skip Richmond - it's a hidden gem. Budget extra time for tolls.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does New York to Florida take with kids?
We recommend 2-3 days for this 1,100-mile trip. Driving time is 16-18 hours, but with kids and stops, plan for overnight stays in DC or Richmond and then Savannah or Jacksonville.
Where should I stop between New York and Florida?
Best stops are Philadelphia (2 hrs), Baltimore (3.5 hrs), DC (4-5 hrs), Richmond (5.5-6 hrs), and Raleigh (8-9 hrs). Each has excellent playgrounds and family amenities.
Is I-95 the best route from NYC to Florida with kids?
I-95 is the most direct but has heavy traffic near major cities. Consider the I-81 route through Virginia for less traffic but slightly longer drive. Both have good family stop options.
Plan This Route in SmartStops
Get turn-by-turn directions to every playground and family stop along your NYC to Florida journey.