All You Need to Know About I-78

I-78 is a major trucking corridor spanning 146.28 miles that connects Manhattan and New Jersey to Central Pennsylvania.
Written by Andrea Barrett
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
Interstate 78 (I-78) begins in Lickdale, Pennsylvania, and ends in Manhatten, New York, spanning 146.28 miles. 
As one of the major trucking corridors, Interstate 78 (I-78) is an east-west highway in the Northeast U.S. that connects to I-81 in Harrisburg,
Pennsylvania
and runs to
New Jersey
and Lower Manhattan. More than four million trucks drive I-78 annually, representing roughly 24% of all truck traffic. 
I-78 spans more than 146 miles, and there’s no shortage of things to do and places to eat along the way. Whether you’re into museums, balloon adventures, or the best eats in the nation, you’ll find some sweet stops along this interstate.
Here's the scoop on driving on the I-78.
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What is an interstate highway?

You’ll hear people use interstate and highway synonymously, but they’re not quite the same thing. The main difference between highways and interstates is access—highways have controlled access, while interstates have restricted access roadways connecting states. They stretch across the United States, covering more than 47,000 miles
But unlike highways that are named, interstates have a unique numbering system, whereby interstates that run north-south are odd-numbered, and interstates that run east-west are even-numbered. Those with the lowest numbers are generally found in the south and west, while beltways and loops on the outer borders of cities are given a three-digit number to differentiate them.

What states does I-78 run through?

Interstate 78 is one of the major east-west highways in the Northeast U.S. and a significant corridor for truckers. It interchanges with I-81 in Bordnersville, Pennsylvania and
I-95
in Newark, New Jersey. But along the way, you’ll also pass through: 
  • Pennsylvania
    : 77.95 miles
  • New Jersey: 67.83 miles
  • New York: 0.50 miles
I-78 is also a major connection point to several airports, including Newark, JFK, and LaGuardia. 

Major interchanges on I-78

If you’re heading down I-78, there are a few exits you’ll want to watch out for, precisely two major interchanges coming off of I-78: 
  • I-81 in Bordnersville, PA
  • I-95 in
    Newark
    , NJ
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Best places to eat along I-78

Driving can be tiring, and your stomach’s sure to get grumbly. Whether you’re craving all-American classics or Southern-style comfort food, there are plenty of great places to check out along I-78. Here are some of the places you must stop. 
  • Stoney Brook Grille
    (North Branch, NJ): Offering a new take on classic American cuisine, Stoney Brooke Grille offers a relaxing environment for a drink with a friend or dinner with the family. Opens Monday to Saturday at 11:30 a.m. and Sunday at 10 a.m. 
  • Westy Bar & Grill
    (Hamburg, PA): Pennsylvania’s best place for delicious food, great drinks, and quality entertainment. With a killer menu offering a rotating selection of draft beer and some of the best wings in Berks County, stop by for great food and a great time. And if you’re looking for cheap drinks, happy hour runs Tuesday to Friday from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Melt
    (Center Valley, PA): If you’re craving a modern take on the classic Italian panini, Melt is the place to be. Enjoy a bite on their rooftop bar, featuring upscale Italian fare with a modern twist. Opens daily at 11 a.m. 
  • Union Plaza Diner
    (Union, NJ): With an eclectic vibe, Union Plaza Diner offers a modern take on classic diner food. There’s something for everyone, with a large selection of sandwiches, salads, paninis, and burgers. Open daily from 8 a.m. to late. 
  • The Bayou
    (Bethlehem, PA): If you’re looking for New Orleans-inspired Southern comfort food and local craft brews, the Bayou is your place. The rustic-chic vibe is suited to the unique, creative dishes lining their menu. Whether you’re craving hush puppies or Lousiana-style gumbo, The Bayou opens daily at noon.
Pro Tip If you’re looking to hit up one of these must-visit spots along I-78, check the hours to avoid closures. 

What is there to do on I-78?

Whether you’re hopping on I-78 for a quick commute or heading to Manhattan for shopping, there’s plenty to see along the interstate. 
Here are some of the best stops along I-78:

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