I-95 ?

[reldridge]

We are driving down to St. Augustine from NC next Thur., 9-25, then taking our time going to WL @ WDW on 9-26- probably taking A1A down the coast to Daytona, then I-4. Tell me about I-95 or I-295 at Jacksonviile. I've been told about construction causing delays in this area. Should we take I-295 around Jacksonville or stay straight through on I-95 South? We should arrive in the Jacksonville area around 2:00 - 3:00 PM. My blood pressure does not cope with gridlock very well anymore (LOL).

Any area residents or recent travelers have suggestions. What about any "must see" things along A1A? I have not driven any farther south on I-95 than St. Simon's Island, GA in several years.

Thanks!!!!

 

[Sanchez]

I feel that as long as you hit Jax by 3:30 pm you should be o.k. I have never had a problem staying on I-95.

Nevertheless, 295 does not add significant miles and I am in the minority in "risking" it every time. It is your best bet.

If you do not deal well with traffic, A1A may not suit you. The numerous stop lights and slow speed zones are maddening. The view, however is much better. There is nothing to see on I-95 in FL (perhaps why I always go through JAX)

Tourist trap that it is, I love St. Augustine. Not much between it and Daytona. I have not been in years, but I understand that Marineland has fallen into disrepair.

 

[billybaruch1]

reldridge, you NC Oldtimer, I'm guessing your wife didn't shoot you! Did the Brita bottle "fit in her fancy bottle holder on her brand new fanny pack?" (Budget board 09-03-2003)

I have no info. re: your drive next week, but I hope y'all have a great time at WDW!

 

[thedisneymom]

It has been suggested that our overnight stay be at South of the Border Motor hotel during our trip. How is this hotel? Anyone ever stayed there? Rm types etc. Thank you!

 

[reldridge]

billybaruch1- Thanks for your concern, but no I did not get shot!!
The britta bottle fits just fine (not perfect mind you, but close enough), so my wife is happy. She is now just worrying about what we will forget to pack. I keep telling her that that's what Wal-Mart is for!!

Time is getting close, so we are really excited.

Sanchez- I know A1A is a slow journey, but I'm looking forward to the scenic aspect of the ride. Slow going does not bother me so much. It's the "dead standstill" gridlock kind of situations that drive me up the wall. Any well known "speed traps" to watch for on A1A??

Thanks for the help!!

 

[holcomb-mania]

We're looking at arriving in Jax around 8pm, staying at the Laquinta off of 95 south of the 10/95 intersection. How long does rush hour last in Jax? And are there currently any big-time construction delays between Savannah and Jax? Thanks.

 

[Sanchez]

In June there was a 20-30 mile construction stretch on I-95 in Georgia. Didn't slow us down much. There is also construction south of JAX.

Can't help with any speed traps on A1A though I would guess that many of the small towns seek to bolster the coffers by ticketing those passing through.

Finally, there should be very little problems getting into JAX at 8:00 pm.

Have a good trip!

 

[Miss Jasmine]

For most beachside communities, speeding tickets are the only reason their police departments exist.. Seriously. You would be surprised at the number of small beachside agencies when it would be easier (and more cost effective) for a bigger police department or the Sheriff's office to cover the same area. Keep to the posted speed limit.