Driving NYC to Boston with kids?
A little planning goes a long way… especially when your road trip could include animal encounters, retro arcades, themed dining, and a peek inside a candy factory.
Whether you’re headed north to Boston or south to New York City, these family-friendly places to stop along I-95 make the ride smoother (and way more fun).
Where to Stop to Burn Off Energy Along I-95 in Southern Connecticut
Just when everyone’s settled into the drive (or melting down 45 minutes in), this stretch of I-95 in Connecticut delivers some solid family stops.
From interactive aquariums to bowling alleys that feel like a theme park, here is where to stop when you need a real break… not just a gas station run.
Stepping Stones Children’s Museum
Where tiny hands meet big adventures.
Stepping Stones Children’s Museum Location: 303 West Ave, Norwalk, CT 06850
Exit 14 (Northbound) or Exit 15 (Southbound) on I-95 CT
Website: Stepping Stones Children’s Museum
Why Stepping Stones Children’s Museum is a Great Stop Along I-95:
This museum is perfect for kids under 10, with a “Toddler Town,” sensory-friendly exhibits, water play, and indoor/outdoor space to burn off some energy.
Bonus: Don’t have enough time for a full stop but still need to stretch your legs?
There is an amazing all-abilities, free playground located at the back of Stepping Stones’ parking lot.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
1 to 1.5 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Ages: Best for ages 1–8
✔️ Open daily, 9 am – 5 pm
✔️ Ticket Prices: $20/ per person ages 1 and up
✔️ Features an energy lab, toddler zone, and outdoor courtyard
✔️ On-site cafe + clean restrooms
✔️ Free parking in the attached lot
The Maritime Aquarium
Floating through a world of wonder.
The Maritime Aquarium Location: 10 North Water Street, Norwalk, CT 06854
Exit 14 (Northbound) or Exit 15 (Southbound) on I-95 CT
Website: The Maritime Aquarium
Why The Maritime Aquarium is a Great Stop Along I-95:
This mid-size aquarium is easy to navigate and packed with hands-on marine fun—touch tanks, sharks, seals, otters and more.
It’s a fun indoor stop if the weather isn’t cooperating or you want something with a little wow factor.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
1 to 1.5 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Open daily, 10 am – 5 pm
✔️ Ticket Prices: $33.95/adults $24.95/ children 3-12
✔️ Features include river otters, a seal exhibit, jellyfish, and a 4D movie
✔️ Paid parking garage across the street
✔️ Great for all ages, especially ages 3–12
Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill
Strike out… but make it under the sea.
Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl and Grill Location: 1 Bass Pro Drive, Bridgeport, CT 06608
Exit 28 (Northbound) or Exit 29 (Southbound) on I-95 CT
Website: Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl and Grill
Why Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl and Grill is a Great Stop Along I-95:
If you’re wondering where to stop for a fun break, this spot has it all…an aquarium-themed bowling alley, an arcade, and a fish-themed restaurant all rolled into one.
Plus, it’s connected to a giant Bass Pro Shops, giving kids even more to explore.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
1 to 1.5 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Hours: Monday to Saturday, 11 am – 9 pm; Friday to Sunday, 11 am – 7 pm
✔️ Bowling is $38/hour Monday to Thursday and $42/hour Friday to Sunday
✔️ Plenty to do without committing to bowling: Full arcade plus themed underwater restaurant with a kids’ menu
✔️ Connected to Bass Pro Shops…another fun walk-through stop
Love a little weird in your life?
These weird and wonderful roadside stops are worth stretching your itinerary for…
Sweet Stops and Big Fun in Central Connecticut
By the time you’re halfway through the NYC to Boston drive, it’s no longer just about grabbing a snack…it’s about figuring out where to stop for a fun change of pace.
Luckily, this stretch of I-95 has a couple of standout pit stops that deliver big fun.
From zip-lining inside a furniture store to exploring a retro candy haven, these roadside stops will break up the drive and keep everyone happy.
PEZ Visitor Center
Sweet detours are the best detours.
Pez Visitor’s Center Location: 35 Prindle Hill Rd., Orange, CT 06477
Exit 41 (Northbound) or Exit 41 (Southbound) on I-95
Website: Pez Visitor’s Center
Why PEZ Visitor Center is a Great Stop Along I-95:
This is the kind of road trip detour that feels totally unexpected…in the best way.
Rows of colorful PEZ dispensers, a peek at how they’re packaged, and a dash of nostalgia make this stop a sweet addition to your NYC to Boston drive.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
30 to 45 minutes
Good to Know:
✔️ Open daily, 10 am – 5 pm
✔️ Ticket Prices: $5/adults $4/children age 3-12
✔️ Your ticket includes a PEZ lanyard and a $2 store credit!
✔️ Interactive displays, factory viewing area, and the World’s Largest PEZ dispenser.
✔️ Free parking lot on site.
✔️ Store-wide scavenger hunt to win a free PEZ dispenser.
It Adventure Ropes Course
A high-flying break from the road.
It Adventure Ropes Course Location: 40 Sargent Dr., New Haven, CT 06511
Exit 46 (Northbound) or Exit 46 (Southbound) on I-95 CT
Website: It Adventure Ropes Course
Why It Adventure Ropes Course is a Great Stop Along I-95:
Claiming to be the largest indoor ropes course in the world, It Adventure Ropes Course delivers big thrills with zip lines, rope bridges, and even indoor “liquid fireworks.”
It’s way more exciting than any road trip detour has a right to be.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
1 – 2 hours, depending on age and course type
Good to Know:
✔️ Great for all ages! Dedicated climbing courses for kids under 48”
✔️ Located inside Jordan’s Furniture (weird, right?!?) … free parking, bathrooms, and snack bar available
✔️ Ticket Prices: 1-hour full course + ziplines $25.20/per person (online) 1-hour under 48” course $10.80/ per person (online) 1 hour of the climbing wall is $10.80/ per person online.
✔️ Liquid fireworks show runs on a loop inside the store
✔️ Great energy burner during the long stretch of driving from NYC to Boston.
For more details on what to expect at IT Adventure Ropes Course…
Kid Friendly New England shared their fun experience with kids here.
New Haven is more than just a pit stop on a road trip… It’s a solid overnight option if you need to break up the drive.
We’ve covered where to stay, what to do and where to eat so you won’t be disappointed in New Haven.
Where to Stop on I-95 for a Mystic Mini Adventure
If your road trip could use a little fresh air, a snack break, or a chance to stare at beluga whales, Mystic’s got you covered.
This walkable cluster of family-friendly attractions is right off the highway and makes it easy to turn your drive into something that feels like a mini vacation.
Mystic Aquarium
Wave hello to some underwater friends.
Mystic Aquarium Location: 55 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355
Exit 90 (Northbound) or Exit 90 (Southbound) on I-95
Website: Mystic Aquarium
Why Mystic Aquarium is a Great Stop Along I-95:
If you need a stop that keeps the kids engaged and moving, Mystic Aquarium is a win.
With up-close animal encounters and plenty of hands-on fun, it’s an easy way to break up the drive and let everyone burn off some energy before getting back on the road.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
1.5 to 3 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Open daily, 9 am – 5 pm (last entry at 4 pm)
✔️ General admission: $42.99 adults, $32.99 ages 3–17
✔️ The Beluga whales, sea lion shows, and Shark Touch Habitat are top attractions.
✔️ There’s an indoor play space for younger kids when they need a reset
✔️ On-site café with kid-friendly meals and plenty of seating
If you’re passing through Mystic in the morning and need a quick, kid-friendly bite that isn’t fast food, check out these best breakfast spots in Mystic, CT.
Olde Mistick Village
A stroll that feels like stepping back in time.
Olde Mistick Village Location: 27 Coogan Blvd., Mystic, CT 06355
Exit 90 (Northbound) or Exit 90 (Southbound) on I-95 CT
Website: Olde Mistick Village
Why Olde Mistick Village is a Great Stop Along I-95:
This walkable outdoor shopping village has a pond full of ducks, a toy store with demos, a small playground, and plenty of snack stops.
You can stretch your legs and browse…or just grab chocolates at Munson’s and hit the road.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
30 minutes to 1.5 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Free to enter and park
✔️ Open daily year-round (individual shops have varying hours)
✔️ Toy Soldier store is a hit with kids
✔️ Plenty of kid-friendly food options, coffee, and restrooms
✔️ Pet-friendly, stroller-friendly, and easy to access from the highway.
Thinking about turning your road trip into a longer getaway?
These summer vacation ideas are family-tested, fun-filled and way more affordable than you think.
Mystic Seaport Museum
Setting sail for family adventure.
Mystic Seaport Museum Location: 75 Greenmanville Ave., Mystic, CT 06355
Exit 90 (Northbound) or Exit 90 (Southbound) on I-95 CT
Website: Mystic Seaport Museum
Why Mystic Seaport Museum is a Great Stop Along I-95:
More than a museum…Mystic Seaport Museum is an outdoor historic seaport village with tall ships, hands-on exhibits, and a waterfront play area.
If your kids are into pirates, boats, history or anything nautical, this stop is a win.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
2 to 3 hours (or longer if your kids really love boats)
Good to Know:
✔️ Open daily, 10 am – 4 pm (hours may extend in peak seasons)
✔️ Tickets: $28 adults, $20 ages 4–12, free for under 4
✔️ Features tall ships, a working shipyard, hands-on exhibits, and historic village buildings.
✔️ Plenty of outdoor space to explore—great for strollers and little legs
✔️ On-site cafe plus a designated picnic area if you bring your own lunch.
Fun Things to Do Along I-95 in Rhode Island
Rhode Island may be small, but this stretch of I-95 delivers when it comes to family-friendly pit stops.
From themed restaurants to roaming zoo animals and pinball machines you can play all day; these stops pack big fun into a tiny state.
Tree House Tavern
You’ll know you’re in the right place when you see the treehouse out front!
Tree House Tavern Location: 1094 Centerville Rd., Warwick, RI 02886
Exit 24B (Northbound) or Exit 27B (Southbound) on I-95 RI
Website: Tree House Tavern
Why Tree House Tavern is a Great Stop Along I-95:
This isn’t your typical roadside meal—it’s more like stepping into the pages of a storybook.
With treehouse-inspired dining spaces, whimsical decor around every corner, and a garden straight out of a fairytale, this stop transforms a quick bite into a full-blown family memory.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
45 minutes to 1.5 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Open Daily for lunch and dinner (Closed Mondays)
✔️ Outdoor seating is available in warm months
✔️ Kid-friendly menu with big portions
✔️ Indoor spaces are themed and eclectic—kids will love it
✔️ Parking lot onsite but can fill during peak hours
Launch Family Entertainment
Burn energy, not daylight.
Launch Family Entertainment Location: 920 Bald Hill Rd, Warwick, RI 02886
Exit 27 (Northbound) or Exit 28C (Southbound) on I-95
Website: Launch Family Entertainment
Why Launch Family Entertainment is a Great Stop Along I-95:
Need to get the wiggles out in Rhode Island? Launch Family Entertainment goes way beyond bouncing, with laser tag, ninja courses, bowling, VR experiences, an epic arcade, and a cafe for parents to regroup.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
1 to 2 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Very large space with a large variety of activities.
✔️ Bundle your activities: Choose 2 for $29, 3 for $35 or 5 for $45. Activities to choose from include: 2-hour Trampoline Action Pass, 1 VR Experience, 1 XP Arena Experience, 1 game of Laser Tag, 40 Arcade Tokens, 1 hour of bowling, 1 signature drink and 1 Krazy Krave Milkshake.
✔️ Great for kids 4+; toddlers can play in designated areas
✔️ Socks required (you can buy them on-site)
✔️ On-site cafe with snacks and drinks
✔️ Reservations are recommended on weekends and holidays
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Meet the locals with feathers.
Roger Williams Park Zoo Location: 1000 Elmwood Ave., Providence, RI 02907
Exit 33 (Northbound) or Exit 34 (Southbound) on I-95
Website: Roger Williams Park Zoo
Why Roger Williams Park Zoo is a Great Stop Along I-95:
This walkable zoo is set in the wonderful Roger Williams Park in downtown Providence and has everything from red pandas and giraffes to a nature play area and carousel.
It’s a longer stop…but totally worth it if you want to stretch your legs in a big way.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
1.5 to 3 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Open daily, year-round (hours vary by season)
✔️ Ticket Prices: $22/adults $16/children ages 2-12
✔️ Family-friendly amenities: stroller rentals, clean restrooms, on-site food
✔️ Free parking in the large lot
✔️ You can add time with a visit to the nearby carousel, botanical center, or playgrounds.
Want to turn your Providence pit stop into something more exciting? This Retro-Inspired Day Trip Itinerary gives you a fun and easy plan.
Ogie’s Trailer Park
Grab a bite and soak up the retro vibes.
Ogie’s Trailer Park Location: 1155 Westminster St, Providence, RI 02909
Exit 36B (Northbound) or Exit 37A (Southbound) on I-95 RI
Website: Ogie’s Trailer Park
Why Ogie’s Trailer Park is a Great Stop Along I-95:
This retro-themed restaurant has vintage trailer vibes, outdoor picnic tables, and a totally relaxed atmosphere.
It’s fun, funky, and a great pick for families who appreciate a little weird with their waffles.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
45 to 90 minutes
Good to Know:
✔️ Open for lunch and dinner (closed Mondays)
✔️ Outdoor space is great for kids to move around.
✔️ Known for creative burgers and tots; has a kids’ menu.
✔️ Can be busy during weekend brunch.
✔️ Don’t sleep on the tots.
Providence Children’s Museum
Where play and learning collide.
Providence Children’s Museum Location: 100 South St, Providence, RI 02903
Exit 36B (Northbound) or Exit 36B (Southbound) on I-95 RI
Visiting Info: Providence Children’s Museum
Why Providence Children’s Museum is a Great Stop Along I-95:
This colorful, hands-on museum is packed with creative ways for little ones to play.
From a pretend New England town with dress-up zones to water tables, climbing structures, and STEM exhibits built for curious little minds.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
1 to 1.5 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Open Daily, 9:30 am – 4:30 pm
✔️ Ticket Prices: $17/ per person (over 12 months)
✔️ Best for toddlers through early elementary ages
✔️ Water play area…bring a change of clothes for littles
✔️ On-site parking lot (can fill up); nearby street parking
Electromagnetic Pinball Museum
Game on! Time to flip out.
Electromagnetic Pinball Museum Location: 881 Main St. Pawtucket, RI 02860
Exit 40 (Northbound) or Exit 41 (Southbound) on I-95 RI
Website: Electromagnetic Pinball Museum
Why Electromagnetic Pinball Museum is a Great Stop Along I-95:
It’s part retro arcade, part hidden gem, and 100% one of the coolest surprises on I-95.
With over 100 playable pinball machines and vintage games (all included with admission), this offbeat stop is pure joy—for kids, parents, and anyone who loves a little weird with their road trip.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
45 minutes to 1.5 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Open Tuesday–Sunday, 10 am – 9 pm
✔️ The $10/per person flat fee covers unlimited play.
✔️ Machines from every decade, plus collectibles and pinball history.
✔️ No food on site
✔️ Best for ages 5+ (but younger ones can still enjoy with help)
Where to Stop on I-95 Near the Boston Area
Whether you’re heading into Boston or making your way out, this stretch of I-95 has spots where kids can burn off energy, and you can hit pause without veering far from the highway.
XtremeCraze
Ready to bounce off some road trip energy?
XtremeCraze Location: 30 Commercial St unit a, Foxborough, MA 02035
Exit 13B (Northbound) or Exit 13B (Southbound) on I-95
Website: XtremeCraze
Why XtremeCraze is a Great Stop Along I-95:
With laser tag, arcade games, a massive indoor inflatable Airpark, and snacks on-site, this place is basically a reward for good car behavior…or a guaranteed way to reset the mood.
Time You’ll Want to Spend:
1 to 1.5 hours
Good to Know:
✔️ Open daily; hours vary by day (Closed Mondays)
✔️ Airpark Ticket Prices: $21/pp for ages 5+
✔️ Airpark Sessions are 55 minutes
✔️ Children 4 and under must be accompanied by an adult in the Airpark. Tickets are $14/pp
✔️ Laser Tag Tickets: $21/pp for ages 7+
✔️ Laser Tag takes 45 minutes total.
✔️ Snack bar on site.
✔️ Can get crowded—check hours and availability before stopping.
If you’re road trip doesn’t end in Boston and you’re continuing up the coast, here’s a family-friendly guide to the best places to stop on your way to Maine.
Still Wondering Where to Stop on I-95? Let’s Recap…
✔️ Want a classic kid-friendly museum in coastal Connecticut? → Stepping Stones Children’s Museum (Indoor/outdoor play with a New England twist, perfect for kids 8 and under)
✔️ Looking for something quirky and unexpected? → PEZ Visitor Center (Yes, it’s a wall of PEZ—and it’s somehow a huge hit)
✔️ Need a high-energy indoor adventure? → It Adventure Ropes Course (Zip lines, ropes, and a giant arcade—all inside a furniture store)
✔️ Want a charming place to stretch your legs? → Olde Mistick Village (Walkable, snackable, and full of ducks—what more do you need?)
✔️ Planning a longer stop with some history and tall ships? → Mystic Seaport Museum (Hands-on history with space to roam)
✔️ Craving an air-conditioned kid-pleaser? → Mystic Aquarium (Beluga whales, sea lions, and splashy fun for all ages)
✔️ Looking for a whimsical lunch break? → Tree House Tavern (Fairytale vibes and food worth sitting down for)
✔️ Want to sneak in a bit of playtime that doesn’t feel like learning? → Providence Children’s Museum (Pretend play + STEM + climbing = happy chaos)
✔️ Need a little arcade-meets-blast-from-the-past energy? → Electromagnetic Pinball Museum (Over 100 playable machines and pure retro fun)
✔️ Looking to get the wiggles out near Boston? → XtremeCraze (Laser tag, inflatables, and an epic indoor airpark that’s worth the stop)
Wherever you pause along I-95, remember: the best road trips aren’t about getting there fast…they’re about making the stops that make the drive memorable.
Happy Travels…
