Interstate 369: Southbound in Texarkana – Texas

Interstate 369 might be one of Texas’ shorter stretches of interstate, but it packs a punch when it comes to connectivity and convenience for drivers moving through the Texarkana region. On this drive, we travel four miles southbound on I-369, a route that plays double duty by also carrying the U.S. Highway 59 designation for its entire length. The journey kicks off at the northern terminus where I-369 meets Interstate 30—an interchange that serves as a major junction for cross-country travelers heading east or west along I-30, and marks the gateway into Texarkana from the north and west.

Setting out from the I-30 interchange, we head south on a modern, well-maintained stretch of highway that bypasses much of Texarkana’s city traffic. The first major intersection we pass is with U.S. Highway 67, which provides access to Texarkana’s business district, area hotels, and several local attractions. If you’re in the mood for a detour, this interchange is your best bet for exploring some of Texarkana’s quirky claims to fame—like the city’s iconic State Line Avenue, where you can stand in both Texas and Arkansas at the same time, or the Photographers Island in front of the only U.S. Post Office to straddle two states.

Sticking with I-369 southbound, we continue on toward the highway’s current southern endpoint at an interchange with U.S. Highway 59, just south of the city. Here, the route transitions smoothly for drivers heading further south toward Carthage or Houston, or east onto Texas Highway 151, which forms a loop around the southwest side of Texarkana. While I-369 is still being developed for eventual extension, its existing segment makes for a quick, efficient bypass—ideal for long-haul drivers, freight, or anyone simply looking to dodge city traffic.

Although the route itself is primarily utilitarian, there are a few points of interest nearby worth noting. To the east, just a few miles from the Interstate 30 split, you’ll find Spring Lake Park—Texarkana’s largest green space, complete with walking trails, playgrounds, and a picturesque lake. If you’re continuing your travels beyond I-369, the adjacent interstates and highways put you within easy reach of local dining, shopping, and the historic downtown area. And for road buffs, I-369 is also part of the future Interstate 69 corridor, which will eventually link the Mexican border with the Great Lakes—so in a way, you’re driving a piece of the future!