Newark, Delaware: Rest Stop of the Future

The Rest Stop of the Future stands in the median of I-95 at one of its busiest spots (it anticipates 4.5 million visitors a year).

Definitely a great place to stop to break up a drive down I-95, with easy access from and to the highway that won't add much time to the trip. As the other tips say, there's some interesting things to see while you stretch your legs, but it is mostly about the clean, bright environment and many food and shopping options before you head to the next roadside stop that may actually be worth a detour!

On September 17, 2018, this service area on the John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway was renamed after the Biden family in honor of its longtime service to Delaware and the nation. Members in attendance at the rededication ceremony included Dr. Jill Biden and her husband, former Vice President Joe Biden, who called the gesture "one of the most meaningful things that has happened to our family."

Inside, a display touts another Washington connection. Eight days before his assassination in 1963, John F. Kennedy stood a few hundred yards away at the Delaware-Maryland border to dedicate the stretch of I-95 that later came to bear his name. The memorial includes a bust of the fallen president, framed photos from his visit, and excerpts from his speech. Travelers interested in listening to audio of the entire oration are welcomed to inquire with a customer service agent.

I recently stopped at the Delaware I-95 stop. It is incredible. It's like walking into an airport concourse. Natural light comes in through a large row of windows near the roof. They sell Delaware fresh farm products as you walk in the southbound entrance. I counted at least four stores and 10 types of food menus. The direct opposite of the past facility.