All You Need to Know About I-91

I-91 runs north to south along western New England, connecting cities like New Haven, Hartford, and Springfield.
Written by Sarah Williams
Reviewed by Jessica Barrett
The Interstate 91 highway (I-91) covers 290 miles and runs from
New Haven, Connecticut
, up to Derby Line,
Vermont
.
Providing a backbone route for western New England, I-91 begins tracking the Connecticut River just south of
Hartford
. It continues to do so through
Massachusetts
and into Vermont until parting ways with the river near the Comerford Dam Bridge, where the river forks east and I-91 travels north to Canada. 
There are many fun stops to make along this beautiful stretch of road, including great restaurants and fun activities. To help you plan your trip, we're here with a guide on everything you need to know about I-91.
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What is an interstate highway?

As you can probably tell from the name, an interstate highway typically travels through multiple states, connecting major metropolitan areas across America. 
Many people don’t realize that the numbering system for interstate highways is anything but random. Odd numbers represent north-south routes (like I-91), and even numbers represent east-west routes. Generally, one or two-digit numbers reference an interstate highway, the most important of which often end in a zero or five.  

What states does I-91 run through?

Running through western New England from New Haven, Connecticut to the Canadian border, Interstate 91 is one of the shorter interstate highways. Here are the states that I-91 passes through:
  • Connecticut: 58 miles
  • Massachusetts: 55 miles
  • Vermont: 177 miles
Interestingly, the stretch from the Massachusetts state line up to
Brattleboro, Vermont
, was the first route with controlled access completed in Vermont. It opened in late 1958. 

Major interchanges on I-91

Knowing the I-91 exits to look out for is key if you plan to make stops on your journey. Here are some of the major connections and interchanges to be aware of:

Best places to eat along I-91

If you’re looking to stop for a bite to eat along I-91, there are some great choices! Here are a few options worth considering:
  • Tikkaway Grill
    (New Haven, CT): This casual Indian grill offers build-your-own wraps, rice bowls, and salads. And for all you vegans out there, they also provide vegan options. The Tikkaway Grill is open on weekdays between 11 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. and from noon until 8 p.m. on weekends. 
  • Abate Restaurant
    ( New Haven, CT): Enjoy thin-crust pies and a large assortment of everyday Italian dishes in a down-to-earth setting. The Abate Restaurant is open Sunday to Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. 
  • Soul de Cuba Cafe
    (New Haven, CT): Decorated with family photos and religious art, this locally owned cafe serves homestyle Cuban cuisine. The cafe is open Tuesday through Thursday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 8:30 p.m. 
  • Dusit Thai Cuisine
    (Newport, VT):Enjoy some delicious Thai food or sushi in Newport at Dusit Thai Cuisine. They are open every day except Tuesday and Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.  
  • Coyote Flaco
    (Hartford, CT): This family-owned eatery offers homemade Mexican food and margaritas. You can also enjoy outdoor seating when the weather is nice. Coyote Flaco is open Tuesday through Thursday from noon to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.
Pro Tip When planning your trip on I-91, check the restaurant hours in advance. Hours vary depending on the day of the week and may change without notice—and you don’t want to pull up hungry only to be disappointed. 
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What is there to do on I-91?

There is no shortage of things to see and do along Interstate 91. Plan ahead to hit all the best spots. 
Here are a few examples of sites to check out along I-91:

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Whether you’re tracing the steps of the Gilmore Girls or commuting to work on I-91, good
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