Philadelphia burbs to Providence
 

I'm traveling this route in a couple of weeks and want to find out if there are any faster/better alternatives than taking I-95 through northern Jersey and around NYC. Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

I hate this drive, but when we have had to do it, we use the Garden State Pkwy to 287 to the Tappan Zee and up the Merrit Parkway.

I'll second Sukie's plan. Over the years, this just seems to be the best route.
Connect with Rt. 95 in Ct. at Stratford, when you get off the Merrit. It will be the fastest route to Providence, and once past New Haven, not bad at all.

Time of day makes all the difference. I95 gets heavily congested at New Haven.
An alternative to Suki is NJTpk to GW bridge. I87 (Major Deegan) to Cross County to Hutchinson Pkwy which becomes Merrit Parkway then over to I95.
Unfortunately, no way to avoid New Haven. If you get there before 3pm, would be better.

Just FYI, Southwest now flies from Philly to Providence and you might get a cheap flight - check it out! Might be less hassle than I-95 if you have to go during rush hour.

Andrew

Suki's route is what I do as well. But the Merritt can also have serious tie-ups during busy travel times. Getting to the Merritt from 287 can be a bit tricky so watch the signs -- crossing lanes and a quick turnoff. Alternatively: after crossing the Tappan Zee 684 near Brewster to 84 will take you through Connecticut, and then beyond Hartford Rt. 6 goes to Providence (a bit "scenic" since it's not a freeway).