All You Need to Know About I-97

Planning to commute between Baltimore and Annapolis? Here's all you need to know about I-97.
Written by Brenna Swanston
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
background
Interstate 97 runs 17.62 miles through the state of
Maryland
. It is the country's second-shortest primary interstate highway.
The north end of I-97 is located in Brooklyn Park, just south of
Baltimore
. The southern terminus is in Parole, a suburb of
Annapolis
. Baltimore and Annapolis are the biggest metro areas in Maryland, and I-97 connects them.
Here with all you need to know about Interstate 97—including places to see and things to do—is
Jerry
, the car insurance comparison
super app
.
icon
Make safe driving pay
Get rewarded for safe driving. Earn points and unlock benefits. Totally free.
Start earning now

What is an interstate highway?

Interstate highways connect large U.S. cities and typically run through more than one state. However, I-97 is not only confined to one state but also one county: Anne Arundel County in Maryland.
In most cases, interstates are numbered with one or two digits. Routes that run north to south are typically odd numbers (e.g., I-97), whereas those running east to west are even numbers. And if an interstate ends in zero or five, this usually indicates it’s a major highway.

What states does I-97 run through?

Most interstates run through multiple states, but I-97—which is less than 18 miles long total—is an exception.
A relatively unusual case, Interstate 97 only exists within Anne Arundel County in Maryland. Of primary interstate highways, only North Carolina's I-87 is shorter than I-97. 

Major interchanges on I-97

Seeing as I-97 connects Maryland's two largest cities, it’s helpful for commuters to be aware of which important exits they'll run into along the way. Major interchanges and connections along Interstate 97 include:
  • I-695, which runs through Baltimore, Towson, Key Bridge, and Dundalk
  • I-895 North (Baltimore Harbor Tunnel Thruway)
  • Highway 648, which runs through the Port of Baltimore and Ferndale
rating reverse-full
"I’m earning
awesome rewards
every week, just for driving safe!”

Best places to eat along I-97

If you're making the commute between Annapolis and Baltimore, you might want to stop for a bite to eat. Thankfully, there's no shortage of great restaurants just a short trip from I-97. Consider the following options:
  • Illusions Bar and Theater (Baltimore, MD): Looking for ambiance, entertainment, and maybe a drink? This bar and event space has a supremely sophisticated vibe. It also features a theater, with magic shows running on the weekends. Illusions is open from 7 p.m. to midnight on Fridays and 2 to 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. to midnight on Saturdays.
  • Ruben's Tacos and Burritos (Baltimore, MD): If you're in the mood for something a bit more casual, this taqueria might be the right move. Enjoy some authentic Mexican food from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. 
  • Hook and Reel Cajun Seafood (Glen Burnie, MD): This restaurant offers a diverse menu that’s heavy on seafood. Reviews praise the attentive service and high-quality food. Hook and Reel is open from noon to 10 p.m.
  • Cooper's Hawk Winery and Restaurants (Annapolis, MD): Craving something a bit more contemporary? Enjoy house-label wines and New American cuisine at this upscale spot. Cooper’s is open from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
  • Stoney River Steakhouse and Grill (Annapolis, MD): This is a chain restaurant featuring a lodge-like theme. It offers a large menu including steaks, seafood, and a creative wine list. Stop by between 11:30 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Pro Tip If you have any dietary preferences or restrictions, do your homework ahead of the commute. Check out the various restaurant menus, and make sure you choose a spot that offers dishes you can eat without worry.

What is there to do on I-97?

Interstate 97 might be short, but you can still take advantage of a few activities along the way:

Find affordable car insurance with Jerry

If you're a commuter on I-97, chances are you'll hit some city traffic. Traffic brings increased risks to your vehicle, and increased risks call for good car insurance. That's where
Jerry
comes in.
Jerry is an app and a licensed insurance broker. In under a minute, Jerry will scan quotes from over 50 top-rated insurers and deliver the best deals straight to you. All you have to do is download the app for free and input a bit of information, and you’ll immediately have a list of affordable quotes to choose from—all tailored to your coverage needs!
Jerry users save over $800 per year on car insurance.
“I would 11/10 recommend
Jerry
. I was originally quoted $700+ for insurance for my new car, but by using Jerry I got my payments down to $320 a month. They also have a great support team ready to answer any questions!” —Tobias F.
Are you overpaying for your car insurance?
Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.
No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms
No spam or unwanted phone calls · No long forms · No fees
icon4.717k Ratings
5M+Drivers Joined
7M+Cars Garaged
Are you overpaying for car insurance?
Compare quotes and find out in 45 seconds.
Try Jerry

Easiest way to compare and buy car insurance

√
No long forms
√
No spam or unwanted phone calls
√
Quotes from top insurance companies
Find insurance savings