Connecting major cities like Houston and Dallas, I-45 sees its fair share of road trippers and commuters alike. Although it does not go beyond the state of Texas, this interstate offers a good amount of food options and entertainment pit stops.

Jerry

is here with all you need to know about I-45, including major interchanges, places to eat, and things to do.

MORE:

Find savings on Texas car insurance costs

Make safe driving pay

Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.

Start earning now

What is an interstate highway?

An interstate is a long highway that connects major cities and usually runs through multiple states in the U.S. A numbering system is used to indicate important information about each interstate.

For example, when a number ends in a zero or five, this usually means that the interstate is a more significant, heavily traveled roadway. If the number is odd (like I-45), that means it is a north-south route. Even-numbered interstates represent east-west routes.

What states does I-45 run through?

Interstate 45 stretches just under 285 miles across Texas—but it does not continue into other states, which is somewhat unusual for this type of roadway. The north end is in

Dallas

and the south end is in

Galveston

I-45 has been around since the 1960s and was built for the purpose of connecting

Houston

and the Texas Gulf Shores with the Dallas-Ft. Worth Metroplex.

MORE:

Everything you need to know about driving in Houston

Major interchanges on I-45

There are only a few major interchanges along Interstate 45, but it’s important to get a sense of where they are if you’re concerned about traffic. Look out for:

I-10 in Houston, TX

I-20 in Dallas, TX

I-30 in Dallas, TX

"I’m earning

awesome rewards

every week, just for driving safe!”

Best places to eat along I-45

While you’re on your Texas road trip, you’ll probably need a place to get a bite to eat—and you might as well make it worthwhile! Check out these popular food options:

I-45 Diner

(Spring, TX): This cute diner has a range of options from all-day breakfast to Mexican dishes. It’s open every day from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. with a convenient location right off I-45.

Rudy’s Country Store and Barbecue

(Spring, TX): This unique restaurant serves its famous down South cuisine cafeteria-style. You can get brisket, ribs, and tasty sides and get comfy at one of the indoor picnic tables.

Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen

(Spring, TX): For American classic food with a Texas twist, Cheddar’s is the place to go—you can even grab a cocktail. It’s open until 10 p.m. every day except Friday and Saturday when it stays open until 11 p.m.

Pappasito’s Cantina

(Shenandoah, TX): Tex-Mex dishes and margaritas are the go-to items at Pappasito’s. This colorful, festive restaurant is sure to satisfy your hunger and provide a great atmosphere.

Pappas Seafood House

(Houston, TX): Pappas has been serving the freshest seafood since 1981. If you enjoy fish, crab, or clams, consider taking a break at this laid-back restaurant.

Pro Tip Before you decide where to eat, check the hours of operation. You wouldn’t want to show up hungry just to find out that the restaurant is about to close.

What is there to do on I-45?

Although I-45 doesn’t go beyond the borders of Texas, it does go through some major cities like Houston and Dallas. Here are some places to check out while traveling on I-45:

Galaxy Drive-In Theater

in Garrett, TX

Space Center Houston

in Houston, TX

Dallas Farmers Market

in Dallas, TX

Galveston Seawall

in Galveston, TX

Huntsville State Park

in Huntsville, TX

MORE:

9 best road trip destinations for music lovers in the US

Find affordable car insurance with Jerry

No matter how many miles you spend on I-45, having a great car insurance policy is a must! With

Jerry

, finding the right coverage at an affordable rate is quick and easy.

If you’re hesitant to switch plans or insurance providers because you’re worried about the work involved, don’t be. Jerry does all the paperwork for you and can even help cancel your old policy!

“I love this app! This is my first car, so looking for insurance was stressful. Until I found
Jerry
! They got me great insurance coverage at an even better price. This is an amazing app!” —Kelly T.