Forked River
Forked River
Providence
Providence
Train Driving

Forked River to Providence

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Forked River to Providence covers approximately 230 miles through the dense Northeast Corridor. Driving involves taking the Garden State Parkway north to the New Jersey Turnpike, then navigating I-95 through New York City and Connecticut. Alternatively, you can drive to Newark Penn Station and board an Amtrak Northeast Regional train for a seamless ride into Providence Station. Traffic congestion is common near the George Washington Bridge and throughout the I-95 corridor in Connecticut. This route transitions from the Pine Barrens of New Jersey to the historic coastal landscape of New England.

Total Distance: 370 km driving distance; 310 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving during off-peak hours (late night) is the fastest, taking approximately 4 hours.
Cheapest Way
Driving is the cheapest option if traveling with more than one person, costing roughly $60 including tolls.
Compare Forked River to Providence Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 5 hours 15 mins 4 hours 30 mins
Avg Price $80-$180 $45-$60 in fuel and tolls
Operator Amtrak Personal Vehicle
Route NJ Transit to Newark Penn Station, then Amtrak Northeast Regional to Providence. Garden State Parkway to I-95 North via I-287 or I-95 through NYC.
Tip Book your Amtrak ticket at least two weeks in advance to secure the lowest fare bucket. Use the E-ZPass transponder to save on tolls at the Delaware Memorial and New Jersey Turnpike plazas.
Travel Tips
  • Avoid NYC Traffic
    If driving, consider taking the Tappan Zee Bridge (Mario Cuomo Bridge) route to bypass the George Washington Bridge.
  • Train Station Access
    Providence Station is centrally located, allowing you to walk to most downtown hotels and restaurants.
  • Toll Awareness
    The route involves multiple toll roads; ensure your E-ZPass is mounted correctly to avoid fines.
  • Parking in Providence
    Use the parking garages near the Convention Center for secure, long-term vehicle storage.
  • Weather Prep
    New England weather changes rapidly; pack layers regardless of the season.
Safety Tips
  • I-95 Vigilance
    The I-95 corridor through Connecticut is prone to sudden traffic stops; maintain a safe following distance.
  • Night Driving
    Avoid driving through the New York City metropolitan area late at night if you are unfamiliar with the complex interchanges.
  • Emergency Kit
    Keep a basic roadside emergency kit in your trunk, including jumper cables and a flashlight.
  • Stay Alert
    The drive is long; take breaks at designated rest areas like the ones on the Connecticut Turnpike.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a direct bus to Providence?
    Yes, Peter Pan Bus Lines offers service from New York City to Providence.
  • How long is the train ride?
    The Amtrak ride from Newark to Providence typically takes about 3 hours and 45 minutes.
  • Are there tolls on this route?
    Yes, you will encounter tolls on the Garden State Parkway, NJ Turnpike, and potentially bridges in NY.
  • Can I fly to Providence?
    Yes, you can fly from Newark (EWR) to T.F. Green Airport (PVD) in about 1 hour.
  • Is Providence walkable?
    The downtown area is very walkable, though public transit is available via RIPTA buses.
Quick Info
  • From Forked River, New Jersey, United States
  • To Providence, Rhode Island, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

May through June or September through October to avoid peak summer beach traffic and winter snowstorms.

Things to Do in Providence
1
Waterplace Park
Located in downtown Providence, this park features a riverwalk and hosts the famous WaterFire art installation.
2
RISD Museum
Explore an extensive collection of fine arts and design housed within the Rhode Island School of Design campus.
3
Benefit Street
Walk along this historic street to view one of the highest concentrations of restored colonial homes in the country.
4
Roger Williams Park Zoo
Visit one of the oldest zoos in the nation, featuring diverse animal exhibits and beautiful botanical gardens.
Tags
Forked River to Providence travel driving NJ to RI Amtrak Newark to Providence Garden State Parkway route I-95 travel tips New Jersey to Rhode Island transport best way to Providence from NJ traveling to Providence RI