trip ideas east coast

20 East Coast Road Trips (with Maps & 1-Week Itineraries)

The family road trip has made a comeback and with it, families are looking for even more road trip ideas. While plenty of East Coasters have made the road trip down 95 to Florida over the years, now families want to take time to stop and explore along the way. With so much to see, we have divided this part of the country up into 20 different East Coast road trips, each of which could be done in a one-week vacation.

Each of these mini East Coast road trip itineraries will give you ideas for new ways to explore sections of the East Coast of the U.S.A. Check off one at a time or string a few together for a longer vacation.

Not sure where to start? Here are my top picks:

• Best for nature fans: White & Green Mountains in NH and VT
• Best for history buffs : Colonial History Philadelphia to Williamsburg
• Best for beach lovers: Coastal Islands: Wilmington NC to Jacksonville FL
• Best for national park stampers: Blue Ridge Mountains
• Best for theme park fans: Daytona to Tampa
• Best iconic views: Florida Keys road trip

20 East Coast Road Trips

Each of these East Coast road trip ideas should take approximately 7 to 10 days to complete as outlined. My goal is to only require one week of vacation time from work, since that is the typical family vacation. I’ve linked to some more detailed road trip itineraries and included maps to give you an overview of the route.

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

New England Coast: Boston to Bar Harbor, ME

The drive from Boston, Massachusetts up to Bar Harbor, Maine can be done in about four hours on the highway, but it is better to take the scenic route and explore Vacationland’s scenic coast along the way. One of the best East Coast road trips, this one is full of Maine foods like lobster rolls, blueberry soda, and whoopie pies; as well as lighthouses, rocky coasts, quaint small towns, and Acadia National Park .

Portland: spend 2 nights in Portland exploring the Old Port, maybe taking a lobster boat tour, climbing on the rocks by Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, or spending a day shopping at the L.L. Bean outlet up in Freeport. You could also visit some local breweries or take a day trip to Maine Wildlife Park in Gray to see some moose.

Where to stay: The Press Hotel , Inn by the Sea , or the Courtyard Marriott Waterfront

Boothbay Harbor: spend 1-2 nights in Boothbay Harbor . On your way, stop and enjoy the coastal towns, Giant’s Stairs in Harpswell, spend an afternoon soaking up the sun on Popham Beach, a rare sandy stretch of sand, and be sure to line up for lobster rolls at Red Eats.

The next day, get out on the water with one of Boothbay Harbor’s many sightseeing cruises to see puffins or whales, or rent a sea kayak to explore Muscongus Bay. Leave time to browse at the many boutiques in town.

Where to stay: Tugboat Inn , Fisherman’s Wharf Inn

Rockland: spend 1 night enjoying the artistic town of Rockland . Pop into the Center for Maine Contemporary Art or the Farnsworth Art Museum. If the outdoors holds more appeal, hop aboard a traditional Maine Windjammer for a short sail, walk along the Rockland Breakwater, or explore the trails at Camden Hills State Park. This arts city of Maine is such a delightful surprise!

Where to stay: 250 Main Hotel

Bar Harbor: finish up your road trip at the scenic town of Bar Harbor, just outside of Acadia National Park . You will want to spend 2 to 3 nights exploring the park. Try to catch a sunrise or sunset from the top of Cadillac Mountain, drive the Park Loop Road, relax on Sand Beach, stop to see the natural phenomenon at Thunder Hole, take in the view from Otter Cliffs, bike the Carriage Roads, and check out some of the popular hikes. Don’t forget to enjoy an authentic lobster pound before you take the fast route back to Portland. (See more things to do near Acadia National Park .)

Where to stay: Bar Harbor Grand Hotel , Hampton by Hilton Bar Harbor , or go glamping at the Terramor Outdoor Resort

Read more: Check out my full coastal Maine road trip itinerary

White & Green Mountains: Boston, MA to Burlington, VT

The drive from Boston to Burlington takes only about 4 hours, but use this New England road trip to spend time enjoying the beautiful scenery of the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the Green Mountains of Vermont along the way, especially during fall foliage season.

Boston: if you haven’t been to Boston , plan on spending 2 nights enjoying this historic city. Don’t miss the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum , walk the Freedom Trail, enjoy a swan boat tour in Boston’s Public Garden, and taste your way through Boston’s Little Italy in the North End.

Where to stay: Fairmont Copley Plaza , Boston Harbor Hotel

Lincoln, NH: Lincoln can make a nice home base for 1-2 nights of exploring the White Mountains . Hike through the Flume Gorge, zip line, or hike at Loon Mountain, ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway, or drive the Mount Washington Auto Road. There are also plenty of hikes to try, rock climbing, a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway , and splashing in the waterfalls at Diana’s Baths.

Where to stay: Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain , Lumen Nature Retreat , Alpine Garden Glamping , or Huttopia

Stowe, VT: spend a couple of nights enjoying the Green Mountains from a home base in Stowe. On your drive from New Hampshire, you may want to stop at the Cabot cheese factory, Ben & Jerry’s Factory, and the Cold Hollow Cider Mill. In Stowe, you can enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and other resort activities.

Where to stay: TopNotch Resort , Stowe Mountain Resort

Burlington, VT: Finish your road trip with a night in the hip waterfront city of Burlington. There are so many things to do in Burlington, VT and you can check out nearby Shelburne Farm, and the ECHO museum. Or if you prefer lake life, finish with a few days on Lake Champlain at the Basin Harbor Hotel .

On your drive back to Boston, be sure to stop and stroll through the charming downtown of Woodstock.

Where to stay: Hotel Vermont , Courtyard Burlington Harbor

Read more: Vermont Route 100 road trip stops , things to do in the White Mountains

Southern New England COast: New York, NY to Provincetown, MA

You should be able to make the trip from New York to Provincetown at the tip of Cape Cod in 5 to 6 hours, but the traffic can be horrendous on summer weekends so try to travel midweek for this east coast road trip if you can.

Mystic, CT: Break up the trip with a night in Mystic. You will want to visit the historic Mystic Seaport, stroll through downtown, and maybe stop in at the Mystic Aquarium. You will find plenty of things to do in Mystic with kids.

Where to stay: Mystic KOA , Inn at Mystic

Newport, RI: spend a night in the yachting capital of the world . You can walk the Cliff Walk, fly a kite at Brenton Point State Park, visit some of the Newport Mansions, shop along Thames, and take a sail in the harbor.

Where to stay: Newport Marriott , The Vanderbilt

Providence, RI: instead of skipping over Rhode Island’s Creative Capital, spend a night to discover this little gem. Take a Rhode Island food tour, visit the RISD Museum, take a gondola or river boat ride, bike along the East Bay bike path, and, if you are lucky, take in Providence’s famous Waterfire .

Where to stay: The Graduate Providence , Aloft Providence Downtown

Falmouth, MA: stay the next 2 nights on the elbow of Cape Cod in Falmouth. Take time to relax on the beach and then hop the ferry over to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket for a day. You can also ride the Cape Cod bike trail or visit the Woods Hole Science Aquarium.

Where to stay: Sea Crest Beach Hotel or Autocamp Cape Cod

Provincetown, MA: finish your road trip with a couple of nights in the unique and vibrant town of Provincetown. You can shop, dine, take a tour of the sand dunes , go on a whale-watching tour, climb the lighthouse, or visit the Pirate Museum. The best part is searching the tide pools at low tide and watching the sunset.

Where to stay: Surfside Hotel & Suites

Read more: New York to Boston road trip itinerary, things to do in Providence

New York to Niagara Falls, NY

The drive from New York City to Niagara Falls can take 6 to 7 hours, but turn it into a road trip with a few days in the Finger Lakes region on the way and plenty of stops along the Western New York Upstate Eats Trail .

Watkins Glen: spend 2 nights in Watkins Glen, at the southern point of Seneca Lake. For fans of The Office, you may want to stop in Scranton, PA on your way for a self-driving tour of filming spots. Enjoy time on the lake, hike to the waterfalls in Watkins Glen State Park, or take a glider ride in Elmira, the Soaring Capital of the World.

Where to stay: Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel

Hammondsport: move over to Keuka Lake and spend a couple of nights in Hammondsport. You can enjoy water sports, wine tasting, and a day at the fascinating Corning Museum of Glass.

Where to stay: Keuka Lakeside Inn

Niagara Falls: you will want to spend 2 to 3 nights in Niagara to explore all the attractions including the Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist, Old Fort Niagara, jet boat tours, and hiking trails in Niagara Falls State Park.

Where to stay: Sheraton Niagara Falls , Hyatt Place Niagara Falls

Buffalo: on your return to New York, stop in for some food, history, and fun in Buffalo . This city is going through a renaissance and plenty of fun activities along the waterfront (in summer or winter). Make sure you try some of these must-eat foods in Buffalo too!

Where to stay: Buffalo Marriott LECOM Harborcenter

Cooperstown: on your return trip, be sure to stop in Seneca Falls and visit the Women’s Rights National Historical Park and the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Then spend a night in Cooperstown and visit the National Baseball Hall of Fame.

Where to stay: Otesaga Resort , Inn at Cooperstown

Read more: Things to do in Hammondsport, NY , New York road trips

PA Pitstops: Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, PA

Driving from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh takes about five hours, but going straight through means you will miss out on some many historic, scenic, and family-fun spots along the way.

Lancaster: start your trip with a night in Lancaster’s Pennsylvania Dutch Country. You will want to take a buggy ride, indulge at an Amish feast, or take in some of the historic sites. You can also take a tour of the Turkey Hill Ice Cream Experience.

Where to stay: Residence Inn by Marriott Lancaster

Hershey: next stop is the sweetest place on earth, Hershey . You can spend the day at Hersheypark, visit Hershey’s Chocolate World, or the Hershey Experience. History buffs will enjoy the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, a good introduction before you head to Gettysburg.

Where to stay: Hershey Lodge

Gettysburg: next up is the historic town of Gettysburg . I would highly recommend a guided tour of the Battlefield, but there are many other things to do in town as well.

Where to stay: Hilton Garden Inn Gettysburg , Gettysburg Hotel

Laurel Highlands: the Laurel Highlands is a scenic mountainous region east of Pittsburgh offering spectacular natural scenery and outdoor recreation. You will want to spend 2 days rafting down the Ohiopyle, climbing through Pennsylvania’s largest cave at Laurel Caverns, and enjoying mountain resort activities including zip lining, rock climbing, summer tubing, and more.

Where to stay: Nemacolin Woodlands Resort

Pittsburgh: you can fit a lot into 1 day in Pittsburgh , but spend 2 nights if you can spare it. See the view from Mount Washington from the Duquesne Incline, visit the Heinz History Center, explore the Carnegie Science Center, and don’t miss the Tribute to Children statue of Fred Rogers near the Allegheny River. There is also the Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and the Andy Warhol Museum. And if the Pirates are in town, try to catch a baseball game.

Where to stay: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh , Omni William Penn Hotel

COlonial History: Philadelphia, PA to Williamsburg, VA

The drive from Philadelphia to Williamsburg takes about five hours but why not turn it into a learning experience with an American history road trip?

Valley Forge, PA: if you have already explored the historical sites of Philadelphia like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, you may want to venture out of the city for a visit to the Valley Forge National Historical Park .

Baltimore, MD: spend 2 nights in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, where you can easily visit Fort McHenry, visit the National Aquarium, stroll through the cobblestone streets of Fells Point, and enjoy the other Inner Harbor attractions.

Where to stay: Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor , Pier 5 Hotel Baltimore

Washington D.C.: you will want to spend at least 2 to 3 days exploring the nation’s capital. There are so many museums and monuments to explore, you may want to use our DC itinerary. Just remember if you want to visit the White House, you will need to make reservations in advance.

Where to stay: Embassy Suites by Hilton Washington DC Georgetown

Williamsburg, VA : finish your road trip in Colonial Williamsburg. You will need 2 to 3 days to enjoy the sites, including a full day in Colonial Williamsburg , a visit to Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown, and Busch Gardens or Water Country USA .

Where to stay: Kingsmill Resort , Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg

Read more: Northeast road trip for history lovers

Mid-atlantic Gems: Cape May, NJ to Chincoteague, VA

If you want to stick to the Mid-Atlantic coast, this road trip will bring you through cute Victorian towns, beautiful beaches, and nature preserves.

Cape May, NJ: start off your journey in Cape May. This quaint town isn’t like the rest of the Jersey Shore. Enjoy the gourmet restaurants, charming boutiques, and gingerbread-style Victorian homes.

Where to stay : Congress Hall

Lewes, DE: take the ferry across to Lewes, Delaware, another Victorian town full of history, cute cafes, and shops. You must stay a night so that you can take a sunset cruise past the lighthouse and if you get lucky, you may see some dolphins on the way.

Where to stay : Inn at Canal Square

Bethany Beach, DE: as you continue down to the beaches of Southern Delaware, you may also want to stop and check out some of the local breweries and wineries in this region. If you are seeking a boardwalk, combined with bike trails, and great restaurants, you may prefer Rehoboth Beach . Dewey Beach is full of seaside hotels and beach bars, along with gorgeous state beaches. But if you are seeking quiet for a few days at the beach, I would recommend Bethany Beach.

Where to stay: Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn by Marriott

Chincoteague, VA: on your way to Assateague Island National Seashore to see the wild ponies , stop in the cute small town of Berlin, MD or for a stroll on the Ocean City boardwalk. To get up close to the wild horses, I would recommend taking a boat tour with Captain Dan from Chincoteague. Afterward, get some marsh mud ice cream at Island Creamery.

Where to stay: Hampton Inn and Suites Chincoteague Waterfront

Eastern Shore: Baltimore, MD to Virginia Beach, VA

Swing through Maryland and Virginia’s Eastern Shore on your way down to Virginia Beach. You can then take the highway back to Baltimore, with a stop in Norfolk or Williamsburg on your return trip.

Annapolis, MD: start off with a night in Annapolis. Spend the day exploring some of Annapolis’ historic sites, including the State House and the U.S. Naval Academy, as well as the boutiques and galleries downtown. Don’t leave town without enjoying some crab cakes!

Where to stay: Graduate Annapolis

St. Michaels, MD: spend a night enjoying the Chesapeake side of the Eastern Shore. The charming town of St. Michaels offers up plenty of retail therapy options, but also cultural attractions like the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Nearby you can go tasting at local wineries and breweries, or get out on the water with a kayak or paddle board.

Where to stay: St. Michaels Harbour Inn

Chincoteague, VA : the kids will then enjoy a night on the other side of the peninsula, finding the wild ponies at Chincoteague or exploring the Assateague National Seashore. Be sure to stop for ice cream at the Island Creamery!

Virginia Beach, VA: there are so many things to do in Virginia Beach that you will want to spend a few days enjoying the wide sand beaches and exploring. Also, check out my friend Brianna’s guide to where to eat in Virginia Beach . If you want to take a day trip, pop over to Hampton to explore some early history or visit the Virginia Air and Space Museum.

Where to stay: Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Wi lliamsburg, VA: finish your road trip in Colonial Williamsburg. Plan on a full day in Colonial Williamsburg , and if you have more time, include a visit to Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown, Busch Gardens, or Water Country USA .

Skyline Drive: Washington DC to Charlottesville, VA

This road trip will bring you through Shenandoah National Park for a mix of outdoor adventures and historic landmarks. We covered this ground during part of a more extensive Virginia road trip a few years back.

Woodstock, VA : spend 2 nights in Woodstock, exploring nearby Shenandoah Caverns, climbing the Woodstock Tower, tubing on the Shenandoah River, enjoying summer sports at Bryce Resort, and hiking in Shenandoah National Park.

Where to stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Woodstock

Harrisonburg, VA: spend the day exploring Shenandoah National Park and driving the Skyline Drive before arriving in Harrisonburg for the night. This is a great road trip for a college tour because James Madison University is also located here. Be sure to also stop at Kline’s Dairy Bar for its famous custard-style ice cream.

Where to stay: Residence Inn Harrisonburg

Charlottesville, VA: plan on spending 2 nights in Charlottesville . Stroll and shop downtown and then enjoy a traditional, Colonial-style luncheon at the historic Michie Tavern, followed by a visit to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello estate.

In the evening, head up to Carter Mountain Orchard to catch a sunset and some live music. On your second day, you can either explore more history at President James Monroe’s home, do some local wine tasting, tour the campus of the University of Virginia, or kayak along the James River.

Where to stay: Graduate Charlottesville

Richmond, VA: finish up your road trip with a couple of days in Richmond . While it was once the capital of the Confederate South, today the state capital is finding a new identity with plenty of street art, craft beer, and fun dining options. You may want to check out the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, or the Institute of Contemporary Art before heading back to DC.

Where to stay: Graduate Richmond

Carolina Coast: Washington DC to Wilmington, NC

If you are ready to escape the city for the coast, it is time for a road trip down to Wilmington , North Carolina and Wrightsville Beach. The six-hour drive is long but then there is plenty to do on the Carolina coast once you arrive and this road trip gives you a chance to figure out your favorite beach.

Emerald Isle, NC: Emerald Isle is on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, or the “southern” Outer Banks. This area attracts visitors who have returned for decades for the simple beach pleasures of a family vacation. Emerald Isle offers 12 miles of pristine shoreline and incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Inlet. Spend a few days enjoying watersports, fishing, or simply sitting on the sand and enjoying the sound of the waves rolling in.

Where to stay: Inn at Pine Knoll Shores , Islander Hotel & Resort

Surf City, NC: stay a couple of days in Surf City, the center of Topsail Island. The relaxing and uncrowded beaches are what some call “the way the beach used to be.” You can also enjoy kayaking, fishing, and boating on the Intercoastal.

Wrightsville Beach, NC: once you have arrived in Wrightsville Beach set up your home base for the next few days to explore. You will want to spend some time in the historic downtown of Wilmington, take a food tour in Kure Beach, stroll the grounds of Airlie Gardens, take a hike in Carolina State Park, or enjoy some beach time. Don’t miss a stop at Britt’s Donuts — the best on the east coast!

Where to stay : Blockade Runner Beach Resort

Low Country: Raleigh, NC to Savannah, GA

You can make the drive from Raleigh to Savannah in about five hours, but it pays to take the coastal route and make some stops along the way.

Myrtle Beach, SC : how long you spend in Myrtle Beach depends on the vibe of a beach town that you enjoy. If you enjoy a boardwalk, arcades, family attractions, and plenty of kitsch — then you will enjoy a classic family vacation to Myrtle Beach. But you can also get away from the crowds by kayaking through the salt marshes, strolling through Brookgreen Gardens, or paddle boarding.

Where to stay: Island Vista

Charleston, SC: for a complete change of pace, spend a night or two in the historic city of Charleston. Start off with a carriage tour through the downtown, visit some of the historic homes and gardens, and discover why Charleston is a foodie destination.

Where to stay: The Mills House Wyndham Grand

Beaufort, SC: spend a day exploring Beaufort, the upcoming-and-coming “next” Charleston or Savannah. Explore its antebellum mansions and downtown historic district. You can also enjoy the low country marshlands and waterways.

Where to stay: Anchorage 1770 Inn

Savannah, GA: finish up this east coast road trip in Savannah. Wander through the city’s many squares lined with oaks dripping in Spanish moss in Savannah’s historic district . Check out the Prohibition Museum, and then enjoy Savannah’s vibrant dining and craft cocktail scene. Stroll down touristy river street, take a ghost tour, visit some of the historic homes, or spend a day out on the beach at Tybee Island. See my friend Rob’s (who has an Airbnb there) favorite things to do in Savannah and my friend Karen has great suggestions on the best family restaurants in Savannah .

Where to stay: Perry Lane Hotel

Blue Ridge Mountains: Charlotte, NC to Gatlinburg, TN

If lakes and mountains are calling you, head towards the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains National Park — with a few stops along the way.

Lake Lure, NC: the backdrop to Dirty Dancing, Lake Lure is a favorite family vacation destination. You will need a couple of days to explore Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, Chimney Rock State Park, and Chimney Rock Village which has plenty of shops and dining options, along with a scenic riverwalk next to the creek that kids will enjoy playing in on a warm sunny day. Plus you have to leave time to enjoy the lake, by boat or beach.

Where to stay: Lake Lure Inn & Spa

Asheville, NC: located on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville has many fun things to do with kids . Take the Blue Ridge Highway to Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, and other hiking trails. Swing from the treetops at the Adventure Center of Asheville, play some games at the Asheville Pinball Museum, visit the Biltmore Estate , one of the most popular things to do in North Carolina , or sample some local craft brews. If you have more time to road trip, be sure to explore these Blue Ridge Parkway stops .

Where to stay: Aloft Asheville Downtown

Gatlinburg, NC: use Gatlinburg as your base for exploring parts of Great Smoky Mountains National Park (don’t miss Cades Cove Loop ) and Pigeon Forge as well. You can go hiking, bike through the park, spend a day at Dollywood, go zip lining, see the view from Clingmans Dome, go horseback riding, or see a show.

Where to stay: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg

Coastal Islands: Wilmington, NC to Jacksonville, FL

Another coastal road trip, this one bypasses the cities in favor of luxury beach destinations and brings you from Wilmington, NC all the way down to Jacksonville, Florida. A 6.5-hour drive by highway, you can spend a week or more exploring the coast. This trip brings you to some of the best beaches in the USA .

Kiawah Island: start off your road trip in luxury at the Kiawah Resort. This private residential island and resort is famous for its acclaimed golf course, but families can also enjoy 5-Star accommodations and 10 miles of private sandy shoreline.

Where to stay: The Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island Resort

Hilton Head Island: spend a couple of days enjoying the beaches of Hilton Head Island. You can also golf, take a guided dolphin or kayak tour, or enjoy some low-country cuisine. You won’t find tacky souvenir shops or neon signs. HHI has a quieter, more relaxed way of life.

Where to stay: Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort

Amelia Island: finish this luxe road trip at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Relax and enjoy the resort, search for shark teeth, star gaze from the beach, go shopping in downtown Fernandina Beach, take a kayaking tour, or hop a ferry for a day trip to Cumberland Island to see the wild horses.

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island

Civil Rights Trail: Atlanta, GA to Memphis, TN

It is a six-hour drive from Atlanta to Memphis, and I recommend turning it into a Civil Rights road trip .

Atlanta: starting off in Atlanta , if you haven’t already visited I would recommend spending a couple of days visiting some of the important Civil Rights sites including the Center for Civil and Human Rights and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Another fun way of exploring some history is through a food tour with Atlanta Food Walks.

Where to stay: Loews Atlanta Hotel

Montgomery, AL: plan on spending a full day in Montgomery visiting the Rosa Parks Museum, the Freedom Rides Museum, and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, which honors victims of lynchings. On your way to Birmingham, you can make a detour to Selma to walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge and visit other Civil Rights sites.

Where to stay : Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa

Birmingham, AL: if you stop in Selma, you may want to plan on spending 2 nights in Birmingham so you don’t have to rush. Be sure to visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Kelly Ingram Park, and the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. Take some time to enjoy Birmingham’s up-and-coming neighborhoods and food scene too.

Where to stay: Westin Birmingham

Memphis, TN: it is easy to spend at least 3 days in Memphis , more if you want to do a day trip to Graceland. You will need a half-day to take in the sobering exhibits at the National Civil Rights Museum at the Lorraine Motel (the place where MLK Jr. was assassinated.) Also visit Slave Haven, Sun Studios and STAX Museum of American Soul Museum. Just leave time to enjoy some great BBQ and soul food .

Where to stay: The Peabody Memphis

Read more: Plan a civil rights road trip

Golden Isles: Savannah, GA to St. Augustine, FL

This coastal road trip from Savannah to St. Augustine, Florida stops at many of Georgia’s Islands along the way.

Little St. Simons Island: spend a few days on this private island nature preserve with just 32 other guests and 7 miles of pristine beach to explore. Take advantage of twice-daily naturalist-led expeditions, kayak through the marshes to go bird watching, bike to the beach, or track some of the property’s resident armadillos.

Where to stay: Little St. Simons Resort

Jekyll Island: plan on spending at least 2-3 days on Jekyll Island, another of Georgia’s Golden Isles. You will want to visit Driftwood Beach, check out the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, picnic at South Dunes Beach Park, relax on one of the many Jekyll Island beaches or even enjoy a day at the waterpark.

Where to stay: Jekyll Island Club Resort

St. Augustine, FL: finish your road trip with a visit to historic St. Augustine — the country’s oldest continuously occupied city. You can stay on the beach or in town but be sure to check out both. You can visit the Fountain of Youth, walk the ramparts at Castillo St. Marcos, take a trolley tour, take a food tour to discover some of the town’s best places to eat , take a ghost tour, climb a lighthouse, or explore these other fun things to do with kids .

Where to stay: Embassy Suites St. Augustine Beach

Florida Coast: St. Augustine to Miami, FL

Driving the east coast of Florida from Jacksonville to Miami can be done in five hours, but why miss all the great beaches, history, and fun attractions on the way?

Jacksonville / St. Augustine: you can fly into Jacksonville or start off in St. Augustine. In addition to all the historic town of St. Augustine has to offer (see above), Jacksonville offers plenty for kids too with the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Museum of Science and History, Sweet Pete’s Candy Shop, TopGolf, and more.

Where to stay: The Lodge & Club at Ponte Vedra Beach

Cocoa Beach, FL: spend 2 to 3 days enjoying the area near Cocoa Beach, including a full day at Kennedy Space Center . You can also kayak past the giraffes at nearby Brevard Zoo in nearby Melbourne or learn to surf at Cocoa Beach, the East Coast surf capital.

Where to stay: Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach

Hollywood, FL: next you can stay a couple of nights in Hollywood, between Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Enjoy strolling along the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, ArtsPark at Young Circle, the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood, and the Anne Kolb Nature Center, with mangrove trails and an aquarium.

Where to stay: Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort

Miami, FL: if you have had enough beach time, you can focus on Miami’s neighborhoods and cultural attractions including Wynwood Walls, Little Haiti, Little Havana, and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Even plan a day trip to the Everglades for an alligator airboat tour! Of course, you can’t leave town without at least checking out Miami Beach.

Where to stay: Eden Roc Beach Hotel or The Diplomat Beach Resort

Florida Keys: Miami to Key West, FL

Driving from Miami to Key West is a classic American road trip. The trip can take a good five hours, but you need to leave plenty of time depending on traffic. It gives you the time to get into “island mode.”

Key Largo: it is best to break up the trip by staying a few days in the upper keys, since every key has its own personality. From here you can explore most of what Key Largo and Islamorada have to offer including John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, snorkeling or other watersports at Robbie’s, or glass-bottom boat tours of the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary.

Where to stay: Baker’s Cay Resort

Duck Key: Hawk’s Cay at Duck Key is a great spot for families to stop and relax for a few days, enjoying all the activities on this family-friendly resort.

Where to stay: Hawks Cay Resort

Key West: on your way to Key West , you will want to stop at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon and Bahia Honda State Park. Once in town, don’t miss out on the famous Sunset Celebration. You may also want to take a snorkel cruise or sunset catamaran. You can explore Key West’s vibrant food scene with a food tour — plus find out where to get the best Key Lime pie . Don’t forget to take a picture at the Southernmost Point.

Where to stay : Margaritaville Key West

Read more: Plan a Florida Keys road trip

Southwest Florida: Miami to Tampa, FL

Cross Alligator Alley from Miami to Southwest Florida to explore the beauty of the Paradise Coast. Each town has its own personality so you will want to do a little beach hopping on your way up Florida’s Gulf Coast .

Marco Island: the wide, white sand beaches of Marco Island will entice you to stay for a few days. On the way, you should stop at Everglades National Park and take one of the many airboat tours available. You may also enjoy a dolphin watch tour, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, parasailing, and even jet skiing. A nature walk in Big Cypress Nature Preserve will introduce you to the area’s plant and wildlife.

Where to stay: JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort

Captiva Island: shelling fans will find their paradise on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. With much of the islands kept as a nature preserve, you are bound to spot dolphins, manatees, and abundant birdlife.

Where to stay: Seven Seas Island Resort

Clearwater Beach: just west of Tampa, the sugar-soft white sand of Clearwater has long been recognized as one of the best beaches in the U.S. In addition to beach time and water sports, families enjoy visiting the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. You can also explore the cultural attractions and family attractions of Tampa, including Busch Gardens, ZooTampa, the Museum of Science and Industry, and more.

Where to stay: Hyatt Regency Clearwater

Central Florida: Daytona to Clearwater, FL

The shortest road trip may be across Florida from Daytona Beach to Clearwater. Yet there is so much to do in Orlando and Central Florida that you can easily spend a week or more getting the best of all worlds from the beach to the theme park.

Orlando: before leaving Daytona Beach, make sure you spend a day at the Kennedy Space Center , especially if you are lucky enough to be around to launch day. Of course in Orlando you can spend weeks in Disney , Universal , Legoland , and SeaWorld, plus all the water parks like Volcano Bay and H2O Live. But there are so many off-the-beaten-path Orlando attractions too from kayaking through the wetlands to visiting nearby natural springs.

Where to stay: Margaritaville Orlando

Clearwater Beach: before arriving in Clearwater Beach , you may want to hit up some of the attractions in Tampa, like Busch Gardens or ZooTampa. Then take time to relax on the sugar-soft white sand beaches of Clearwater. Take a pirate cruise, enjoy movies in the park, and visit Winter the Dolphin (famous from the movie A Dolphin’s Tale) and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.

Where to stay: Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach

Panhandle: Orlando, FL to Orange Beach, AL

When you are ready to escape Central Florida for the gorgeous beaches of the Panhandle, head north on this Florida road trip.

Tallahassee: the drive from Orlando to Tallahassee takes about 4 hours, but there are plenty of natural springs, like Crystal River or Rainbow Springs, to stop at along the way. Or, turn it into a college trip and visit the University of Florida in Gainesville. In Tallahassee, you will find trees lined with trees dripping in moss instead of the palm trees of South Florida. Kids will also enjoy the Tallahassee Museum, Challenger Learning Center, Mission San Luis, and the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab.

Where to stay: aLoft Tallahassee Downtown

Destin: get ready for a few days of beach life in Destin on the Panhandle’s Emerald Coast. There are a ton of things to do with kids including the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, Indian Mound Museum, Big Kahuna’s water park, banana boat rides, parasailing, and more.

Where to stay: Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort

Orange Beach, AL: one of our favorite beaches, you can compare the Florida versus Alabama Gulf coast experience. In addition to relaxing on the sugar-soft sands of Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, there is so much else to do from biking in Gulf State Park, zip lining at The Wharf, sunset cruises with Sail Wildhearts, dolphin cruises, and of course, chowing down on amazing food !

Where to stay: Turquoise Place

Time to grab your road trip essentials and hit the road! If you don’t find what you are looking for, you can also take a New York to Florida road trip .

I hope this East Coast road trip planner was helpful. If you still need more inspiration, see more East Coast vacation ideas or things to do in New England .

Save this on Pinterest

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

Find this useful? Share it!

Publish Date: November 19, 2023

Comments are closed.

SIGN UP FOR OUR NEWSLETTER & RECEIVE A FAMILY VACATION PLANNING KIT!

We3Travel.com will use the information you provide on this form to send you newsletters. You can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of any email you receive from us, or by contacting [email protected] . By clicking below, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.

Start typing and press enter to search

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » North America » USA » East Coast

EPIC East Coast Road Trip Guide (2024)

If you want to explore America’s past and sample some of its splendor, then you can’t go wrong with an East Coast road trip!

On the East Coast, you’ll discover some of the most significant historical sites in the entire nation, not to mention a huge array of landscapes and an even greater diversity of people. While the West Coast gets most of the attention for its weather, natural beauty, and upbeat residents, the East Coast is usually considered the foundation of the nation.

But planning a road trip alongside the Atlantic Ocean can be stressful. With so many states and so many places to stop, it can be hard to know what NOT to miss and what you’d be better off skipping.

And that’s exactly why I wrote this East Coast Road Trip insider guide : so YOU know exactly what to do and where to stay along the USA’s Eastern Seaboard.  We’ll cover a wide range of topics over the course of this article including some East Coast road trip itineraries, food, lodgings, and sticking to a budget during your vehicular adventure.

Now without further ado, here’s everything you need to know to have an EPIC East Coast Road Trip!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

A note on the format of this guide: Because the East Coast is massive and we have already written separate guides on New England, New York City, and Florida, this article will often refer you to other sources too. In order to best understand the East Coast, it’s very advisable to read these separate articles alongside this guide.

East Coast USA Road Trips Costs

Renting a car for your east coast road trip, where to stay on your east coast road trip, best east coast road trips, places to visit on the east coast, east coast road trip tips, apartments and hotels on the east coast, renting a car or campervan on the east coast, final thoughts on an east coast road trip.

It’s hard to say how much the average cost of a road trip up the East Coast will be because there are so many routes one could take, not to mention each state is more or less expensive.

Almost every expense associated with going on an East Coast driving trip, including gas, lodging, food, drink, and whatnot, will vary depending on the state which, again, makes costs difficult to gauge.

I can say with certainty, however, that going on a road trip along the East Coast–like traveling in the USA as a whole– will not be cheap. All of the aforementioned costs add up very quickly and can be a substantial burden on your wallet. This is especially true if you’re the type of traveler who doesn’t pay attention to their spending…

Luckily you have us; we’re always looking for ways to travel cheap and love sharing the best tricks with you, the readers. Even if we are unable to travel on $10/day like in our favorite countries, we can at least help you minimize expenses. Plus, there are plenty of East Coast budget adventures to be had.

A ballpark estimate for an East Coast road trip budget would be around $175-$225 . This covers food, lodging, a rental car, gas, and entertainment.

There are a couple of things that you need to be mindful of while driving in the USA :

• Gas will be your biggest expense as you’ll be traveling a lot; more than you’re probably expecting.
• Hotels and lodging will be very expensive in popular destinations e.g. New York City, Florida beach resorts, the national parks, etc.
• Food will cost more or less depending on how often you eat out and how much you cook for yourself.

Average Costs of an East Coast Road Trip

This breaks down exactly how much you can expect to spend while traversing the East Coast.

Rental Car: $30 – $100/day

RV Rental: $100 – $300/day

Gallon of Gas: $3.50 +

Cheap Airbnb: $80 – $100

Hotel room: $130 – $150

Hostel: $15 – $35

Campground: $0 – $50

Sandwich: $4 – $9

Beer at a bar : $4 – $8

Coffee: $2-$5

Attractions : $0-$20

Dinner for two: $25 – $75

If you are a resident of the US then you probably have a vehicle to drive across the Eastern seaboard. If you are coming from elsewhere though, then you will need to rent a car for your trip (unless of course, you can fit it in your suitcase…).

The US remains the land of the motor-vehicle and getting hold of one is pretty easy as long as your the licence and the money. I personally used Booking.com to find a car rental last time I was in the US and can recommend it. It is the best car rental aggregator I have tried and scours a LOT of rental options. I also find it easier to use an app and company I am already familiar with rather than sign up with a random site that I will never use again.

Looking for specific accommodation recommendations? Here are some of the top places to stay on an East Coast road trip:

Best East Coast Mountain Getaway: Bear Ridge Lodge

The Bear Ridge Lodge in New Hampshire is the absolute PERFECT East Coast road trip stop. The beautiful, secluded log cabin has been featured in several magazines and boasts epic mountain views without any neighbors in sight. You can relax on the beautiful porch, use the stone fireplace as a nightcap, or start a hike anytime as miles of trails are right outside the door. The lodge can sleep up to 8 guests and is a 15-20 minute drive from restaurants and stores.

Best East Coast Oceanside Cottage: Island Beach Living

Located on Pass a Grille beach alongside Florida’s West Coast, this idyllic oceanside cottage is the perfect beach stop on your East Coast road trip. Peaceful, secluded and free from the perils of mass tourism that plague most of Florida’s beaches, this cottage is literally steps from the ocean, and comes with a cycle! You can also utilize the full kitchen, or if not, several restaurants and shops are also within walking distance. This beach cottage can host two guests, and also has an outdoor shower to wash off after a sandy day!

Best Airbnb in Boston: Historic Beacon Hill Apartment

This Boston Airbnb is the best in the city for several reasons. First off, it’s located in a historic brownstone and is just minutes from the T and just a bit longer to some of Boston’s most iconic attractions. The booking gives you the entire apartment, which was recently renovated and can accommodate up to 3 guests. The picturesque space is well maintained and even has a fully functioning kitchen if you want to save money on meals!

• Boston to Washington D.C – 7 days
• East Coast Historical Road Trip – 14 days
• Ultimate East Coast Road Trip – 21 days

Below is a list of suggested itineraries for driving the East Coast of America. Varying from 7 days to 21 days in length, they cover many of the East Coast’s top attractions.

Each itinerary provides day-by-day highlights, which are meant to give you some good East Coast road trip ideas.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

Boston to Washington D.C – 1-Week East Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary

This is a great East Coast road trip if you only have 7 days, and you want to explore some of the USA’s best and most historic cities: Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C.

With 7 days you can see each of these cities’ highlights and best cultural attractions, and camp one night in Shenandoah National Park.

• Boston’s Freedom Trail
• Fenway Park Walking Tour and Game
• Exploring Manhattan and Brooklyn
• Philly’s Liberty Bell
• The Lincoln Memorial
• White House
• Shenandoah NP and the Blue Mountains

Hyatt Regency Boston

Freehand New York

Hotel Baron (D.C.)

• Boston – Sam Adams Brewery
• Brooklyn – Brooklyn Brewery, Smorgasburg
• Philadelphia – Monk’s Cafe, Evil Genius, Yards, Love City, and Crime and Punishment for a good brew. Northern Liberties neighborhood, and Steve’s Prince of Steaks for… cheesesteak.
• Washington D.C. – Adams Morgan and The Shaw for nightlife.

Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park

• Governor’s Ball (June in NY)
• Tribeca Film Festival (NY)
• Philly Beer Festival (February)
• By the People Art Festival (Washington D.C in June)

Things to Do in 7 Days on the East Coast

• See the highlights of Boston
• Watch a game at Fenway Park
• Walk along the Freedom Trail
• Explore the Boston Commons
• Go on a Little Italy food tour
• Hit the food markets in NY
• Eat and go out in SoHo and Chelsea
• Walk the Highline
• Cycle in Central Park
• Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Get some views from the top of the Empire State Building
• Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
• Explore Brooklyn’s nightlife
• Eat some NY pizza .
• Walk around historic Philadelphia including Liberty Bell and Independence Hall
• The Betsy Ross House
• Visit the Museum of the American Revolution .

Explore the historical sites of Washington D.C.:

• Lincoln Memorial
• Washington Monument
• Capitol Hill
• The Smithsonian Museum
• The White House

PLUS take a scenic drive in the beautiful Shenandoah National Park and camp in the woods.

Many of the activities on this itinerary are great for history buffs and learning about the East Coast’s culture.

Historical Route from Boston to Savannah – 2-Week East Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary

With an extra week, you can really explore the East Coast’s most significant historical and cultural attractions. Any history buffs will love this East Coast itinerary as it will start with you exploring Boston and end all the way down to Savannah, Georgia, exploring some of the country’s most significant attractions along the way.

Along the way, you’ll pass through NYC, New Jersey, Philadelphia and the Gettysburg, D.C, Williamsburg + Fort Raleigh, and the must-visit Charleston.

• Plymoth Plantation
• Fort Raleigh
• Roanoke Island
• Myrtle Beach
• Apple Hostels of Philadelphia
• ARC THE HOTEL Washington DC
• Charleston – The Obstinate Daughter, Lewis Barbecue, and Bangkok Lounge for drinks and karaoke.
• Savannah – The Grey and Fox and Fig
• Scenic route on the Carolina coast to Savannah
• The entire Blue Ridge Parkway
• Savannah Music Festival (March)
• MOJA Arts Festival (Charleston)

Things to Do in 14 Days on the East Coast

Here are some of the best things to do in 2 weeks on the East Coast!

• Visit Bunker Hill
• Spend a day at Plimoth Plantation
• Visit the New-York Historical Society
• And the 9/11 Memorial and Museum
• Spend a day at Battery Park
• Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
• National Museum for African American History
• National Gallery of Art

Visit Colonial Williamsburg and the first English settlement

PLUS stop by Wilmington or Myrtle Beach, visit the plantations outside Charleston, and walk the cobblestone streets of Savannah.

Ultimate East Coast USA Road Trip – 3-Week Itinerary

This is the  ultimate 3 week East Coast itinerary. While the previous itinerary focuses on cities and historical sites, this itinerary also leaves plenty of room to discover this side of the coast’s best beaches, hikes, and parks.

Unlike the previous routes, we’ll be starting in Maine, one of the United States’ gems. If you like good seafood and great beer, you’re going to love Maine.

Next, you’ll continue down the East Coast in a similar fashion as itinerary #2, but will also visit Acadia National Park (in Maine) Shenandoah National Park, Asheville, and the Smoky Mountains.

This is the best itinerary for you if you want to explore some of the country’s most beautiful forests and beaches as well as the most eccentric concrete jungles. Make sure to check out some awesome bed and breakfasts in Maine along the way.

• Acadia National Park
• Aloft Miami Brickell (Miami)
• Generator Hostel (Miami)
• Scenic route on the Carolina Coast to Savannah
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Florida Keys highway
• Asheville Wine & Food Festival (August),
• Brewgrass in Asheville (October)
• Daytona 500 (February)
• Ultra Miami Music Festival (March)

Things to Do in 21 Days on the East Coast

• Grab a lobster roll in Portland Maine and explore the craft brew scene.
• Watch the sunrise in Acadia National Park before anyone else in the US.
• Stop by Camden Hills State Park on your way to Boston to gawk at some quintessential New England coastline.
• Explore some of the country’s most famous campuses like MIT and Harvard in Cambridge.
• Outside of Boston, visit Walden Pond where Henry David Thoreau lived.
• Visit NYC’s best landmarks and neighborhoods.
• Eat yourself full in Queens.
• Visit all of Philadelphia’s historical landmarks.
• Explore Washington D.C’s National Mall.
• Visit some of the country’s best museums like the Smithsonian.
• Drive along the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah.
• Camp in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Visit the hipster town of Asheville and Biltmore Estate.
• Explore the Charleston plantations and Carolina coastline
• Check out the Savannah Historical Center.
• Driving through Florida: Amelia Island, Castillo de San Marcos, Daytona Beach, and every beach in between.
• Hang out at on the beaches of Clearwater.
• Explore the historic city of St. Augustine.
• Take a boat ride in the Everglades.
• Explore Wynwood, stay on Miami Beach, and admire Brickell’s galleries.
• Shopping in Miami.
• Hit the town at night too; this is one of the best places to party in the USA..

PLUS, for more nature, visit Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and take a  Key West road trip to the Florida Keys, where you can check out places like Bahia Honda State Park, Key Largo, the southernmost point of the US and, of course, the legendary Key West itself.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Below is a list of the best road trip destinations on the East Coast. Study them well and decide which ones you like the most.

New England Road Trip

New England is often considered the cradle of American society because of its role in the early colonial days. Many of America’s original colonies were founded here but much of their remnants still remain. It’s one of the most quaint places to visit in the United States .

Those on a road trip on the Northeast Coast of the USA will find a treasure trove of historical sites, not to mention amazing coastal scenery, hearty food, and memorable locals too.

New England is a large region that is composed of 6 different states: Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, so in this section, we’re only going to be able to highlight the best of New England.

Staying in Boston is guaranteed to be a good time. It’s one of the best cities on the East Coast and it’s a truly awesome place to explore.

When in Boston, be sure to check popular local attractions like Fenway Park, Boston Commons, Trinity Church, and Uptown. Try attending a sports match, which is like church for Bostonians, and be sure to grab a drink in a local New England pub. I also HIGHLY recommend staying in Cape Cod for a few days if you get the chance.

The rest of New England is defined by pastoral villages, rugged coastline, and expansive woods. A bed and breakfast in Vermont is the perfect place to unwind in lush, mountainous greenery while famous coastal destinations like Acadia National Park, and the Connecticut Coastline are unlike any other beaches in the USA.

There are a ton of awesome bed and breakfasts in Connecticut where you can stay in a historical building and enjoy that welcoming East Coast hospitality.

Also consider driving through the New England countryside, particularly around the Litchfield Hills, Mohawk Trail, and the White Mountains. If you’re on an East Coast road trip during the autumn, you’ll be treated with the magnificent fall foliage that New England is so famous for.

New York Road Trip

New York, New York. It is the very symbol of the USA and probably its most well-known city. It is a bewildering busy place with an insane amount of people, who bounce around the city like atoms in a nuclear reactor. New Yorkers like to say that if they can make it in this city, then they can make it anywhere because where else could they feel so alive?

Traveling in New York City shouldn’t be taken lightly–the city is an absolutely enormous place that has more districts than one can count. It would take a lifetime to explore all of NYC’s neighborhoods – and I’m about to explain New York in the course of around 300 words. If you think this is a vastly underwhelming number, then we agree.

NYC is one of those places that’s absolutely worth spending some time in– staying in NYC is quite the experience!

New York is one of the greatest economic engines on the entire planet. This city churns out more money than most countries. Its skyline, which is one of the most recognizable in the world, is a representative of the city’s financial success. At the same time, New Yorkers, reaping the benefits of the economy, like to celebrate after a paycheck, often.

Hotels and Airbnbs are often expensive in and around the Big Apple, but elsewhere in the state you can look at staying in New York motels which are designed for road trippers!

As for gastronomy, people love to eat and drink in NYC. This city hosts one of the craziest nightlives in the world and more world-class restaurants than I can bother to imagine. Meeting up with friends after a hard day’s work or just visiting a local attraction like the MET, One World Trade Center or Central Park , is undoubtedly the top thing to do in New York.

There’s more to New York than just the city. Be sure to visit the oft-forgotten Upstate New York. Niagara Falls , the Hudson Valley , Catskills , and the picturesque stays in the Adirondacks should all be included on a road trip from New York.

New Jersey Road Trip

New Jersey is often seen as the butt-end of New York City – a state that only serves as a giant suburb for New Yorkers who want to settle down but still be close to the city. While its close proximity to the top places in NYC is certainly a boon – you can literally see Manhattan across the Hudson in New Jersey – it’s much more than New York’s backyard.

New Jersey has a lot to offer those on a road trip down the East Coast USA, including mountains, some of the best beaches in the Northeast, and lots of agrotourism opportunities. In fact, a bed and breakfast in New Jersey is so much cheaper than staying in the Big Apple, that many tourists visiting New York opt to stay in Jersey City/Newark and commute in.

The greatest density of people in New Jersey is in Jersey City/Newark , which, to little surprise, is right next to New York City. These places are often used as a cheaper base for exploring the city but are worthy of seeing as well.

As for what to do in Jersey City , you can eat and drink just as well as in NYC and, best of all, enjoy the best views of skyline without having to deal with the massive crowds. Newark has an excellent selection of museums and art galleries.

Most who visit New Jersey head straight for the beaches, which are very fine. Atlantic City , infamous for its gangsters and casinos, is the most visited coastal city in New Jersey and arguably the most famous resort town on the East Coast. Though many come here for more carnal reasons, Atlantic City still benefits from some gorgeous beaches and surfing opportunities.

Other popular beach getaways include Belmar, Asbury Park , the Wildwoods , and Sandy Hook . You can also opt to stay on Cape May for a truly spectacular Jersey seaside experience.

Few people realize that New Jersey has mountains! The Kittatinny Mountains , a subsection of the Appalachians, run along the western edge of the state and offers many hiking trails. Further south is the expansive Pine Barrens , which is great for camping and berry picking.

Pennsylvania Road Trip

Pennsylvania is one of the most historically significant states in the entire USA. The state has been the theater for many of America’s most important revolutionary events and has also been the birthplace of many of its greatest industries.

Coal, steel, mining, and even Amish woodworking are among Pennsylvania’s proudest exports and each of these paint a clear picture of what the state is today. A road trip through Pennsylvania will be an excellent insight into middle American life, both old and new.

You can’t pass through the state without visiting Philadelphia , which is one of the most historical cities in the USA. Philadelphia’s most important landmarks include the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall , the latter of which is where the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Philadelphia also hosts a wide variety of museums and historic sites that are some of the finest on the East Coast. Most famous is the Philadelphia Museum of Art , which, aside from having an excellent collection, also hosts the steps that Rocky Balboa trained on.

The rest of Pennsylvania is mostly rural. Much of Pennsylvania’s natural splendor is found here, and it’s particularly beautiful if you stay around the Poconos , Lake Eerie, and the Laurel Highlands . Famously, the Amish also live in the Pennsylvania countryside, mostly around Lancaster .

If you make it as far as Pittsburgh in the western portion of Pennsylvania, you’ll be rewarded. Pittsburgh was once the steel capital of the USA and, though it had a couple of rough years, is now becoming one of the coolest East Coast cities. There are plenty of great places to stay in Pittsburgh too.

Maryland and Delaware Road Trip

Maryland and Delaware are two of more historically significant states in the country. Much of their two histories are defined by the vital Chesapeake Bay , which served as an extremely important waterway during colonial days.

Nowadays, Maryland and Delaware are pretty quiet and mostly act as residences for rich folk from DC. The states still benefit from being located next to the Chesapeake – the seafood here is some of the best on the East Coast and there are lots of little coastal haunts worth checking out. These, in addition to the many historical attractions, make both states worth seeing.

Baltimore , Maryland is the largest city in the region and hosts the densest collection of attractions. Staying in Baltimore , made famous for its criminal elements thanks to The Wire , is not nearly as dangerous as it used to be and is actually one of the most desirable cities on the East Coast.

It has several interesting neighborhoods -like eclectic Fell’s Point , vibrant Hampden , and the artsy, somewhat ritzy Midtown – that make Baltimore worth visiting. Visit these areas and be sure to grab a famous Blue Crab around the Inner Harbor .

East of Baltimore is the Chesapeake Bay and the Delmarva Peninsula, which is where you’ll find most the region’s coastal charm. The Delmarva is shared by both Maryland and Delaware. Interestingly, the peninsula is culturally unique from the rest of the Atlantic states in that it identifies more with the South for both historical and geographic reasons. You’ll find many awesome cabins in Maryland to make a pit stop in these coastal towns.

Delaware is a very small state situated almost entirely on the Delmarva Peninsula . Almost all of the state’s attractions are found in Wilmington and on the coast.

Although it’s the largest city in Delaware, there isn’t a whole lot to do in Wilmington aside from maybe visiting nearby Brandywine Country . The Delaware Coast at least has some nice beaches. Noteworthy Delaware beaches include Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach .

You can also check out some of the cool best bed and breakfasts in Delaware , many of which are ideally located close to the beach!

Washington DC Road Trip

Washington DC is the glorious yet under-privileged nation’s capitol. It’s a perfect example of American exceptionalism and, at the same time, economic stratification. At the end of the day, staying in Washington DC is one of the best cities on the East Coast to visit, if not for its sheer beauty then for its relevant social dynamics.

Few can argue against how gorgeous the city of Washington DC is. The city itself is the product of a city planning movement that was meant to represent a new age in America. As such, Washington DC is designed to be a very modern metropolis with perfect gridwork and several large areas designated for monuments.

Most of DC’s top things to do monuments are located in or near the Mall District – a 2-mile long park that runs through the center of the city.

Most of the city’s greatest landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument , the Smithsonian Museum , and the White House are located in this park. The Mall District is certainly one of the must-see places on any East Coast road trip route and makes for a very lovely day of walking.

On the edges of the Mall are the rest of Washington DC’s most iconic places . North is Adams Morgan and The Shaw , which is where you’ll find much of the city’s surprisingly active nightlife.

East is Capitol Hill where most of the United States’ politics are done. South is the gorgeous Jefferson Memorial and, across the Potomac River, the hallowed Arlington Cemetery .

One should definitely add the outskirts of the city to their Washington DC itinerary to experience a “realer” side of the capital, where gentrification is in full effect. Much of DC’s satellite neighborhoods, where most natural-born residents are from, were socially neglected in the 90s.

Nowadays, these districts are being renovated aggressively and, in the process, are losing their identity. Visit H Street, Columbia Heights , and the Near Northeast for a taste of the new DC, both the good and bad of it.

Virginia Road Trip

Virginia is a transition state where Southern culture begins to take hold. As the former capital of the US Confederacy during the Civil War, the state is certainly not lacking its historical landmarks.

Virginia also has some of the finest scenery in the Eastern United States–you’ll even find cool wonders like the Natural Bridge State Park. Those on a road trip down the East Coast will be both delighted and captured by Virginia’s beautiful cabins that give a full dose of nature.

Richmond is the capital of Virginia. It’s a very old and historically significant city that has been around since the Colonial days. Much of its original architecture was destroyed in a great fire that occurred after the Confederates fled the city but, regardless, Richmond is still full of history and pride.

Virginia Airbnbs are plentiful in Richmond and beyond–do try them out for a more local, residential feel.

Richmond is a fairly spread-out urban area with several neighborhoods. Strewn sparsely among them are several museums dedicated to everything from poetry to historic landmarks. Aside from these, Richmond is also an arc for art and music and there are several clubs spread throughout the city.

The Virginia Coastline is where you’ll find the largest population in Virginia in addition to the usual beachside resorts. Here you’ll find Virginia Beach, Chesapeake , and Norfolk , which sort of combine to form their own metropolitan area. This part of Virginia has lots of excellent beaches to lay on but most of them are family-oriented. Staying in Virginia Beach is a great choice if you want to relax for a bit.

The interior of Virginia is mountainous and is home to a couple of beautiful national parks, like Shenandoah . Many people visit Virginia to see these parks and make road trips on the gorgeous Skyline Drive .

There are many quaint bed and breakfasts in Virginia that offer an authentic experience and are usually in renovated historical buildings. I highly recommend checking one out and experiencing that warming East Coast hospitality.

You can navigate this route all the way to the Great Smoky Mountains if you want, and can take a break at any time to go on hikes or to visit local landmarks. The Natural Bridge and the town of Winchester are good stops.

Consider taking part in the Brew Ridge Trail , which is one of the best East Coast brewery road trips!

North Carolina Road Trip

If there were one Mid-Atlantic state that offered the most, then it would probably be North Carolina . North Carolina has beaches, interesting cities, awesome mountains, and, of course, plenty of southern charm.

There are several urban centers in North Carolina. Charlotte is the largest city in the state and is becoming increasingly hip each and every day with more and more things to do . There are many cool Charlotte Airbnbs to choose from for your stay.

It’s a working man’s city with a booming economy and growing entertainment district that will soon be the next Southern jewel. It is, admittedly at the moment, still a bit dull compared to some other East Coast cities though. But you can find some cool and trendy North Carolina Airbnbs to enjoy your road trip stop at–for a much better rate than New England, that’s for sure.

Raleigh and the surrounding communes of Chapel Hill and Durham are much more fun. These cities are home to several universities, including the popular North Carolin State University and Duke , which means that there are lots of young people looking to have a good time.

The cities themselves are often ranked as being some of the most livable in the country and so make for great East Coast road trip stops.

The North Carolina Coast is awesome, filled with white sandy beaches and some of the best destinations for an East Coast road trip. Here you’ll find the extremely historical Roanoke Island as well as Kitty Hawk aka the birthplace of modern aviation. Some of the best beaches in North Carolina are Holden, Carova, Carolina, and Corolla .

North Carolina’s greatest treasure may be the fabled Great Smoky Mountains , which is home to some fantastic hiking trails. Cloaked in mist and legends of bootleggers, the Smokies are one of the most storied parts of the USA and, consequently, the most visited national park as well.

Be sure to stay in Asheville while in the Smokies, which is hands down one of the best East Coast cities to visit. Asheville has an amazing art and beer scene, and is often compared to eccentric places like Austin, Texas and Portland, Oregon. The grand Biltmore Estate is also near Asheville.

Charleston to Savannah Road Trip

Charleston (South Carolina) and Savannah (Georgia) are two cities that are fighting for your attention! Like squabbling children who want mommy to listen to them, these two cities have been in a fierce competition for generations. Visiting both of these cities will definitely be a highlight on your East Coast USA road trip.

Charleston is often considered to be the quainter and more intimate alternative to Savannah. It’s a small city that hosts some of the most well-preserved Southern architecture in the region. The French Quarter, Magnolia Plantation, Rainbow Row , and Boone Hall are all wonderful examples. A night in Charleston should definitely be prioritized, as should the epic Charleston City Market.

Savannah, on the other hand, is often seen as the larger and more charged of the two cities. As the birthplace of Georgia and a vital economic center for the South, a stay in Savannah has become much grander and, some locals would argue, more fun than Charleston.

Though Savannah lacks some of the singularly amazing landmarks that Charleston has, it still has that classy Antebellum style that we love about the South.

Savannah’s Historic Quarter is one of the largest in the USA and is most well-known for its gorgeous cobblestone streets and large public squares. Forsyth Park is a fantastic place to spend some time in, and there are also a lot of historic Georgia vacation rentals you can spend your trip in. Taking a walking tour in Savannah is arguably one of the best things to do on an East Coast road trip.

In the end, there are too many intangibles when it comes to Charleston and Savannah. The best way to experience these cities is just to visit them and compare the two yourself. Note how each prepares local Southern food and how each has worked to preserve their respective images.

Both the states of South Carolina and Georgia are much bigger than Charleston and Savannah. There are also lots of things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids. Consider visiting this beach resort town in South Carolina for your family getaway. Alternatively, head to Kiawah Island for an ocean escape.

A ways inland is Atlanta , which is the largest city in Georgia and arguably the cultural capital of the Deep South.

Florida Road Trip

Welcome to Florida ! Home to amazing tropical beaches, abundant sunshine, and most of the East Coast’s retirees. If you’ve been craving some Vitamin C and some delicious Latin food, you should be very excited to visit Florida.

If you’ve made the arduous road trip from Maine to Florida, congratulations – your beach chair and pina colada are waiting for you.

Florida is a gorgeous state with a shit ton of attractions and cities to visit. Staying in Florida is sure to be one hell of an experience. There isn’t another state quite like it, for better or for worse.

In order to better understand the Sunshine state, we highly recommend you read it.

The first place most people think when they hear Florida is Miami. (Cue corny Will Smith song.) Though much of what you hear about Miami is true – it’s glamorous, full of amazing beaches, and sometimes a shitshow – there’s a lot more to it.

Visiting Miami also means getting to experience an amazing art scene, which is best experienced in the Design District, Wynwood , and Midtown neighborhoods.

Thanks to its enormous immigrant population, Miami also has some most authentic Latin and Caribbean communes outside of their respective regions. Be sure to visit Little Havana and Little Haiti for the amazing cultures and food.

While Miami is safe for tourists, avoiding the neighborhoods of Overtown, Liberty City, and Opa Locka are musts. Luckily, there’s nothing for travelers to do in those places anyway.

The rest of Florida is defined mostly by endless stretches of beach, swamps, and Southern hospitality. The Everglades are one of the most important wetlands in the nation and are an impressive natural wonder.

Stunning beaches are a dime a dozen in Florida though the ones around the Emerald Coast, Tampa Bay, Florida Keys, and Atlantic Coast are particularly great (and yes, that’s just about everywhere.)

The only thing more numerous than beaches in Florida is Southern folk. Contrary to popular belief, only the area around Miami is predominately Latin – Central and Northern Florida are more similar to the Deep South. Expect lots of BBQ, fried gator, and charm. Places to stay in St. Augustine still have much of their Spanish colonial history and make great places to stay for a rest stop.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Off The Beaten Path East Coast Road Trip Ideas

Want to expand your road trip on the East Coast? Try connecting it with one of these other regions! They’re a bit off the beaten path but are worth visiting.

Why not just continue all the way into the Great White North for some good Canadian fun, eh?! With lovely people, hugely fun cities, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in North America, it’s no surprise that visiting Canada tops many’s bucketlist.

Visit the likes of Montreal , Toronto , Nova Scotia , and Newfoundland to experience some of the best of Canada.

2. Appalachia

The Appalachian Mountains are the greatest mountain chain on the East Coast, which separates it from the Midwestern and Great Plains regions. It is a relatively isolated place that, over the years, has developed its own distinct culture and identity. Renting a cabin in West Virginia will give you a real look into Appalachian life, which is notably different from most other US states.

Tennessee and Kentucky, though Southern leaning, are arguably a part of this region. There is no better way to experience the Appalachians than the epic Appalachian Trail, which traverses a staggering 2,200 miles and takes over 6 months to complete.

Perhaps you’re the type who likes frigid weather and lots of dairy products? Make a detour to the Midwest then for a chance to experience some of the warmest hospitality in the country.

Surrounding the Great Lakes are welcoming states like Michigan and its up-and-coming capital Detroit, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Illinois that have been the subject of much love and ridicule (because of those funny accents). The Midwest hosts a number of cool cities–you cant go wrong with a visit to Chicago or Minneapolis.

4. Deep South

If you’re looking for pleasant winter weather and a chance to experience more Southern comfort, why not head further inland into the Deep South to Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. If you drive through Alabama, check out some of the cool and unusual hotels in Birmingham and stay for a few extra days to sample some of the real staples of Southern living.

Larger cities are quite cosmopolitan–you can’t drive through the region without visiting New Orleans ! On the other hand, states like Mississippi and Alabama are where things just get plain weird.

Historical East Coast Road Trip Attractions

Want to travel through America’s history? Then stop by one of these many historical East Coast road trip attractions to learn more about how the US was made!

• Bunker Hill (Charlestown, Massachusetts) – Site of one of the earliest and most important battles in the American Revolutionary War. A granite obelisk now stands at this location. One of the first monuments erected in the USA.
• Plimoth Plantation (Plymouth, Massachusetts) – An open-air museum located on grounds of the former Plymouth Colony. Attempts to recreate life as the settling English pilgrims experienced it.
• Gettysburg (Pennsylvania) – Battleground for the largest battle of the American Civil War. Gettysburg was a decisive victory for the Union and it proved to be a turning point in the conflict. A sobering cemetery and military park are the only remains of the fight.
• Mt Vernon (Alexandria, Virginia) – Former home and plantation of the USA’s first president, George Washington. Open 365 days per year as ordained by the president himself.
• Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia) – A section of modern Williamsburg that was preserved in order to appear like an original colonial settlement. Includes American colonial buildings, educational tours, and actors dressed in anachronistic apparel.
• Biltmore Estate (North Carolina) – An enormous mansion built by the Vanderbilts, one of the foremost tycoon families of the American Gilded Age. Still owned by the Vanderbilts and still the largest private dwelling in the USA.
• Fort Raleigh (North Carolina) – The preserved remains of the Roanoke Colony, the first-ever English settlement in the USA. Shrouded in mystery as the residents famously disappeared after they lost contact with the crown.
• St. Augustine (Florida) – A modern-day city that actually has some of the most significant Spanish colonial architecture in the country. The impressive Castillo de San Marcos is the grandest and most popular attraction in the town.

National Parks on the East Coast

The national parks are among the must see places on the East Coast as they offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the region. Consider stopping by one of the following parks…

• Acadia (Maine) – A jewel of the Northeastern coastline. Features some of the best and most rugged coastal scenery in the United States. Great beaches, great fall foliage, and great attractions for a road trip up the East Coast. For easy access to the national park, we recommend staying in Bar Harbor as it’s one of the nearest towns.
• Shenandoah (Virginia) – A slim national park that is mostly visited by those making the superlative Skyline Drive. Mountainous scenery that bursts into color during the autumn. Lots of hidden vistas and waterfalls available to hikers.
• Great Smoky Mountains (North Carolina) – One of the best places on the East Coast, though it’s actually a bit far from the ocean. Spending time in the Great Smoky Range means visiting the highest mountain chain in the entire Eastern USA. One of the most ecologically diverse places in the USA and officially the most visited national park in the country. The “smokey” title comes from the frequent fog that likes to hang around the mountains.
• Congaree (South Carolina) – A very large and well-preserved tract of hardwood forest that hosts some of the largest trees on the East Coast of the USA. It floods regularly, which brings in huge amounts of nutrients for local ecosystems. Overall, a very ecologically diverse park.
• Everglades (Florida) – Massive wetlands that are one of the most important natural habitats in the USA make Everglades National Park a must see. Features endless groves, glades, and inlets that hide several threatened species including the Florida panther, manatee, and the American crocodile. Usually explored by airboat or on foot via several trails.
• Dry Tortugas (Florida) – A small chain of keys that hosts the astounding Fort Jefferson, which is the largest brick masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere. Being a part of the iconic Florida Keys , Dry Tortugas also has excellent diving opportunities and that beautiful Caribbean water. Can only be reached by boat.
• Biscayne (Florida) – A offshore park that shelters an enormous amount of aquatic life. A very popular place among divers and fishers. 90% of the park is located in the ocean so camping and hiking opportunities are pretty limited.

East Coast Scenic Drives

Choose any one of these scenic routes listed below to gain more East Coast road trip ideas! Each one features more of the best places on the East Coast to visit.

• Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia/North Carolina) – The most scenic road trip on the East Coast. A very long road that traverses the Blue Ridge Mountains and connects Shenandoah with the Great Smoky Mountains.
• Skyline Drive (Virginia) – A road that runs the length of Shenandoah National Park, which is arguably the most popular destination in the park. Offers breathtaking views of the mountains and also provides access to several hiking trails, including the ACT. Connects with the Blue Ridge Parkway in the south.
• Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire) – A spectacular East Coast road trip route through the White Mountains. Most popular during the fall when the mountains explode with autumn color. Several campgrounds and viewpoints are found along the 35-mile stretch.
• Florida A1A (Florida) – A highway that runs the entire length of Florida’s Atlantic Coast. The route hugs the entire coastline to Miami and affords amazing views of the ocean. Also includes the Florida Keys Scenic Byway, which is arguably one of the most beautiful roads in the USA.
• Acadia National Byway (Maine) – Ring road that offers the best sights of Acadia National Park . Most of the park’s top attractions can be reached via the byway including Sandy Beach and Jordan Ponds. Popular in fall when the trees are changing colors as well.
• Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad (Maryland) – A historical East Coast road trip route that follows the trail of the Underground Railroad – one of the most important escape routes for African slaves during the Civil War. Along the way, you’ll visit many museums, churches, and former residences that educate you about the railroad. Not very scenic but very humbling. Baltimore is a very cool city if you fancy hanging out a few days.

A few insider tips to help your East Coast Road trip go just a lil’ bit smoother!

Getting Insured

Do you need Travel Insurance for your trip? Even if you’re only going for a few days, that’s more than enough time to get smote by wrathful angels. Have fun on your road trip, but take it from us, overseas medical care and canceled flights can be seriously expensive – insurance can, therefore, be a life-saver.

Travel mishaps can and do happen and it is well worth thinking about insurance before you leave home.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Top Tips for Broke Backpackers

Below is a list of East Coast road trip ideas for saving money. Try and practice these as much as possible.

• Use vehicle relocation services: These brilliant services offer huge discounts to people on the condition they get a vehicle to a certain place at a certain time. No joke, you can rent a car sometimes for as low as $1/day! Availability is very limited though, so keep a watchful eye on the sites. Check immova and Cruise America to start with.
• Rent an economy car: Prices can be as low as $25/day depending on the time of year and how far in advance you reserve. Economy cars are also more fuel-efficient so you’ll save on fuel.
• Camp: Unless you want to fork out big bucks for a lodge, you have to camp. Campgrounds are way less expensive and sometimes even free. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking .  If you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
• Sleep overnight in an empty lot: Though not technically legal, people sleep in parking lots all the time. Make sure the lot is safe by asking around. Walmarts are reportedly good places to park overnight as they allow overnight parking.
• Buy an America the Beautiful Pass : Seriously, if you’re visiting more than two national parks, you’d be a fool not to buy this.
• Cook your own food: Eating out can be very expensive. Cook your own food as much as possible to save – I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove . Otherwise, have a fancy night out at a food cart.
• Do free shit: There are lots of free activities on the East Coast! From hiking to laying on the beach to going to the local monuments; all of these things cost you nill. Be sure to keep your ear to the ground for all things free in the East.
• Pack a filtered water bottle : It’s good for your wallet and the environment. Purified water is easy to come by in the States versus other countries.

Feeling a little gross after hanging out in the Great Smoky Mountains ? Got sand in every crack and corner of your body after laying on the beach too long? Maybe it’s time to take a break from your camping road trip on the East Coast and to check into a hotel.

Thankfully, hotels are everywhere in the USA and come in all shapes and sizes–there’s even quite the selection of USA budget hotel chains . You could perch yourself in a high-rise condo in the middle of the city or perhaps laze away in a small inn on the countryside.

If you’re on a budget East Coast road trip and need to cut costs, you’ll most likely have to settle for cheaper guesthouses and motels . These types of accommodation are fairly generic, drab, and offer a pretty limited amount of amenities. If you’re using hotels in more expensive states, than you’ll still end up paying $80/night minimum.

No matter what you end up choosing though, one thing is for certain – hotels on the East coast are expensive. Airbnbs in the US are a much better option than chain hotels most of time, and you can see plethora of reviews beforehand.

If you needed to save the most money on your East Coast road trip, then you should take advantage of hostels and campgrounds .

They are by far the most affordable type of accommodation on the East Coast, and are actually quite fun to stay at. Though hostels in the USA can be a little weird (we know: we’ve stayed at several), most are perfectly decent even if they’re not as rad as the ones in Europe or Asia.

Best Places to Stay on the East Coast

Here are some of the absolute best places to stay on your East Coast road trip:

East Coast Camping Road Trip

Spread across the entire Eastern seaboard is an endless variety of campgrounds set amongst dozens of landscapes. An East Coast camping trip is a fantastic way of seeing everything that the region has to offer, and you should rarely be left uninspired by the amazing selection.

There are all kinds of campgrounds in the East that offer a wide range of amenities and rates. Generally speaking, there are four types: private, public, dispersed , and backcountry . Below is a brief explanation of each.

• Private – Larger campgrounds that offer the most amenities including communal kitchens, showers, and maybe onsite restaurants. Most appropriate for demanding campers. Most expensive as well. Payment is made through the office of the owners.
• Public – More basic campgrounds that offer limited but crucial amenities. Running water, electricity, and bathrooms should be but are not always present. Good prices. Payment is made to a public organization either online or via a drop box at the camp.
• Dispersed – aka wild camping, primitive camping . Camping in an area that is not an official campground but is still legal. Little to no amenities. Almost always free.
• Backcountry – Camps located in the wilderness areas. Almost always require a hike to reach. Often no facilities so campers must bring food, cooking gear, camp supplies, etc. Permits are usually required and can be arranged at a nearby ranger station.

A lot of campgrounds, especially those at the national parks, can fill up very quickly. Consider booking a campground ahead of time to ensure that you have a spot.

If there are no campgrounds left at a specific place, there may be walk-up sites available, which you’ll need to arrive early to claim. If you strike out on the walk-up sites as well, there may be overflow camping nearby.

You can definitely camp for free while on a road trip down the East Coast! Most of these campgrounds are pretty remote or located on some sort of specially mandated land.

Each state offers different types of free backcountry camping so you will need to research each. To get started, check this website for a compendium of free camping on the East Coast.

Camping on the East Coast – Gear Checklist

The East Coast has some of the finest camping in the whole country. You could sleep in your car or an RV while traveling on the East Coast but sleeping outside under the stars is way more fun. Having a good tent will keep you comfortable on those chilly nights and give you lots of flexibility when it comes to finding a place to sleep.

Here are some other essentials that we recommend adding ton your road trip packing list …

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Don’t forget the insect repellent either!

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Renting a car is the most popular way of getting around the Eastern USA. There are a myriad of car rental agencies here that offer varying deals and varying models.

To find the best rental car deal in the USA, use search engines that compare the prices of individual companies. I personally like using rentalcars.com as they’ve never failed to give us a great price.

You can also rent an RV or campervan, which means you don’t have to worry about packing camping gear. You will have to empty and refill the various water tanks though, which will require a visit to the proper facilities. RVs also cost more to rent, use more gas, and demand higher prices at campgrounds.

You can drive your own campervan around the country, but this is only practical if you already own one and are importing it into the country, or have a long enough US visa to make the most out of your wheeled home.

I suggest booking a campervan with Outdoorsy as they usually have a good selection and good prices. Better yet, Broke Backpackers also get a $40 discount with Outdoorsy! Just use the coupon code “BACKPACKER” when checking out.

The roads are generally very good and a sedan or economy car should deliver you to most of the East Coast’s top destinations. Only in the most remote portions of the Appalachia and the swamplands will you need to be concerned about having 4-wheel drive.

If you need any extra motivation to book that trip, here is the perfect mix of cheesy and inspirational road trip quotes . I’m sure they’ll give you the nudge you need.

Tips for Saving Money on Car Rentals in the US

• Reach out to vehicle relocation services, like Imoova and Cruise America , as a way of saving heaps of cash on rentals.
• Car insurance isn’t always mandatory in the USA but is highly encouraged. This being said, you don’t necessarily have to buy car insurance from the company you’re renting from. Purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as tires, windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.
• Many credit card companies offer free car insurance if you book the car with the proper card. Call your credit card company for more information regarding terms and conditions.

Best Time to Visit the East Coast

The East Coast is a massive region that is subject to more than a dozen different climates. While on a road trip along the East Coast, USA, you could potentially experience rain, sunshine, snow, and tropical storms – all in the course of a few weeks!

Depending on what you want to do, you could visit the East Coast at any time of the year. Summers generally have the most reliable weather though you might get dumped on in Florida.

On the other hand, if you were on an East Coast road trip in the winter, you could totally go skiing in New England and then surfing in Florida! Just don’t forget a high-quality ski jacket .

I have broken the East Coast into three different climate categories. These are broad generalizations and, in reality, each state has much more complex weather patterns. These categories are relevant enough for you to understand how the weather works on the East Coast.

Northeastern States (New England -> Pennsylvania) – These states are subject to 4 distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters and warm, semi-humid summers. Winters in these states can be frigid as the Canadian winds wreak havoc. Summers are mostly mild but heat waves are still common.

Central Atlantic States (Maryland -> Georgia) – These states receive more regular rainfall throughout the year and less dramatic temperature swings. Winters are still relatively cold and summers are the hottest time of the year, which means that these states are still classified as having 4 seasons. Though rare, Georgia and the Carolinas can actually receive snow in the winter.

Tropical States (Florida) – While the climate of Northern Florida is more similar to Georgia’s, Southern Florida is textbook tropical. Rain comes in bucket loads during the summer, sometimes dangerously in the form of hurricanes. Winters are mild and clear.

Food on the East Coast

A road trip on the East Coast will afford endless opportunities for you to try different foods. The food of this region is so diverse and so different that it’s not possible to put all of it into one category (except, of course, a delicious category).

Each state has its own local delicacies. You could make a culinary road trip from Maine to Florida in pursuit of these dishes and it would certainly take up a lot of your time and attention!

But let’s briefly talk about what you’ll find on each part of the East Coast…

New England is famous for its seafood , which is often baked, stewed or steamed to divine results. Chowder is perhaps the most famous dish here, though you can’t go wrong with a good ol’ clambake or lobster roll. On that note, Maine lobster is highly regarded. Food in Boston is particularly famous for its clam chowder, Boston baked beans, and being a legendary baseball city, hot dogs.

New York City has just about every type of food imaginable because of its enormous immigrant population. You can seriously eat some of the best food from around the globe in one city. If there was one or two foods that could be called true New York food, it might be bagels and pizza . As pizza in the city is often priced at backpacker-friendly rates, just pair it with a cheap NYC hostel for an affordable adventure.

Pizza and, for that matter, Italian food is fairly common in the Atlantic states. Some places, like New Haven (Connecticut) and Scranton (Pennsylvania) even claim to have the best in the world.

The sandwich is also a staple of the East Coast and comes in many varieties. New Jersey is famous for inventing “the sub” while you can’t say you’ve visited Philadelphia’s tourist attractions without savoring its very well-known Philly cheesesteak.

As we drive further south the food begins to change. Southern cooking becomes the dominant trend and BBQ and fried foods are heavily featured. The Carolinas are particularly famous for their version of BBQ, though the Georgian variety is no slouch either.

Finally, Southern Florida has some of the best Caribbean and Latin food that you’ll eat in the USA. Cuban, Jamaican, Dominican, South American – all of these culinary styles are represented very well in Miami and the surrounding area.

Get your Buzz On

The East Coast is called the Beast Coast for a reason – people get wild on a regular basis and throw some of the best parties in the USA! You can party in a myriad of ways while on a road trip up the East Coast – you could go to a speakeasy in New York City, drink with rowdy Southies in a Boston dive, rub shoulders with politicians in Washington DC or dance all night in Miami. The possibilities are limitless.

Just make sure you know your personal limits (and that of your wallet) before dabbling in drug tourism, that’s all!

Drinking on the East Coast, particularly in the bigger cities, is by no means cheap though. Cover charges, exorbitant drink prices, and taxi fees add up very quickly; you could easily drop more than $100 in a single night.

I advise drinking at local dive bars for the cheapest drinks and taking advantage of the ubiquitous happy hour. You can get a beer for as low as $1 in some bars.

Beer is probably the most popular drink on the East Coast and is found in abundance at nearly every bar. No matter which bar you end up in, you’ll usually have a huge selection of domestic, craft, and imported choices. Best of all, it’s usually the cheapest drink!

One idea is to go on a brewery tour of the East Coast! There are hundreds of breweries on the East Coast making everything from shitty lagers to divine ales. I suggest visiting Brooklyn Brewing, Wicked Weed in Asheville, Ommegang in upstate New York, and Creature Comforts in Athens, Georgia.

Marijuana is legal for recreational use in several New England states! While on a Northeast coast road trip, you can drop by a dispensary and pick up a dime bag. All you need to buy weed is an ID proving that you’re over 21 and cash.

Be sure to brush up on local laws and don’t bring marijuana across state borders (especially into illegal states).

Being a Responsible Backpacker

Remember to be a respectful camper while on your East Coast road trip. Depart from the grounds at a decent hour, follow leave no trace principles , and be very, very aware of fire bans.

Reduce your plastic footprint: Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in a landfill or in the ocean.

I know it can be hard, but do your best to use the least amount of plastic water bottles that you can. Refill the ones that you do buy! Use a GRAYL GEOPRESS . Refill at your hostel/guest house! There are plenty of ways to reduce plastic!!!

Pack a tough and cool travel water bottle. You’ll use it every single day whether you are traveling or not! Be a responsible traveler , and grab a Grayl!

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

I hope this epic East Coast road trip guide has prepared you for your overland journey along the Atlantic Ocean. This region of the country is filled with unique landscapes, plenty of history, and some truly delicious food.

Traveling here will help you get to know the US, and give you a look at the diversity within it. Just look at the differences between Miami and Maine!

This is a lot to take in, but remember that road trips can be spontaneous. That’s half the fun! On the other hand, if you just can’t quite decide where to start, you can’t go wrong with the Ultimate East Coast Road trip, which truly hits all the best stops on this side of the United States.

So make those last-minute van repairs or secure your rental.

An East Coast road trip awaits !

Updated April 2023 by Samantha Shea from Intentional Detours .

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Share or save this post

Great! very informative article. Keep it up.

I noticed a typo. The South Carolina State University is not located in Raleigh, NC. It should read North Carolin Satate University.

Awesome high level ideas for the ultimate East Coast road trip! As a Florida local, I’d recommend travelers check out some of the smaller, lesser-known FL West Coast areas like Anna Maria Island just south of Tampa or Sanibel if you’re heading even further south. All said and done, your guide did Florida justice — from visiting the Dry Tortugas to trying our BBQ and fried gator.

Wow, really long and informative article! Don’t have much to add but two tips that fall under the category general (obvious) advice:

– Don’t set the stops in stone and don’t try to keep a timeline. Take your time to explore places and stay flexible. Your trip will benefit greatly. – Keep a track of gas stations on your route. Because obviously there’s nothing worse but to run out of gas on a rainy day in the middle of nowhere…

Totally agree! You should really check out that ViaMichelin app for gas stations and what not. It’s brilliant.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best East Coast Road Trips for Every Season

People talk a big game about driving up and down the West Coast , and that’s all well and good—and perfectly deserved. However, the East Coast's road trip opportunities are ready and waiting to be explored, and are a bit underrated, if you ask me. Sure, it lacks the sprawl of the middle and west of the country with its large plains and arid Southwest, but with 14 states, four distinct seasons (beyond Florida’s endless summer, that is), and an incredibly diverse range of cultures and landscapes, the East Coast really is the coast with the most—and the only possible way to sample its infinite variety is on the road . Here are 12 of the best East Coast road trip itineraries, including where to stop, where to stay, and what to eat along the drive.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Small but mighty: New Haven to Newport

Hit the highlights of two of America’s smallest states, Connecticut (#3) and Rhode Island (#1) with the 100-mile drive along US-1 from New Haven, Connecticut, to Newport, Rhode Island. This journey is a cinch for Bostonians and New Yorkers alike, and is chock-full of underrated pizza spots, scenic cliffs, and, of course, historic mansions. Anticipate the best views along oceanfront Scenic Route 1A in Rhode Island from Westerly to Wickford (At 39.6 miles, that’s a long distance in Rhode Island terms.)

Where to stop: When you stop in Newport, head to the cliff walk, a light and breezy 3.5-mile hike with panoramic bay views and sights of the Vanderbilt estate known as the Breakers, among other Gilded Age mansions. Experience a different side of the Breakers on a “ Servant Life Tour ,” which exposes the back-of-house operations that fueled socialite events at the 65,000 square-foot mansion designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt.

Where to eat: Fuel up at the start of your journey in New Haven with the famed clam pie at Frank Pepe’s pizzeria (as featured on Ugly Delicious among many other hit shows). The accolade-racking pie is well worth the wait.

Where to stay: If you’re itching to splash out, look no further than The Chanler at Cliff Walk in Newport, which has landed on our Readers' Choice Awards a whopping seven times. We’re partial to the Martha’s Vineyard villa, with its ocean view and canopied four-poster king bed.

Tropical temptations: Miami to Key West

Florida’s Overseas Highway is a 107-mile highway that connects the southernmost reaches of Miami , near Everglades National Park, to the southernmost point of the continental United States in Key West . It’s about a four-hour drive across countless coral and limestone islets on a two-lane highway, so use the slow-moving traffic as an excuse to stop to sightsee, eat, snorkel, or swim. After crossing the long and narrow seven-mile bridge, look forward to the most beautiful—and famous—parts of the Florida Keys, including Bahia Honda State Park and the self-proclaimed Conch Republic (aka Key West).

Where to stop: Swim among Technicolor tropical fish at either John Pennekamp State Park in Key Largo or Sombrero Reef off Marathon in the Middle Keys. Organized snorkeling tours are available at both. Also get some beach time at Bahia Honda State Park. Sitting at the confluence of the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico at mile marker 37 of US-1/Overseas Highway, this 524-acre beach park has some of the finest stretches of sand in the Florida Keys . There are both secluded and more trafficked spots for sunbathing and excellent photo opps of the largest intact section of Henry Flagler’s elevated overseas railroad.

Where to eat: Where Miami ends and the Overseas Highway begins, there’s an option for taking a secondary road, Card Sound Road, to initially reach the Upper Keys (you’ll then connect to the Overseas Highway). Take the Card Sound detour, and stop for lunch at Alabama Jacks , a waterfront dive bar and eatery with the best conch fritters and mahi mahi sandwiches in the Keys. If opting for the entirety of the Overseas Highway, stop for lunch at Mrs. Mac’s Kitchen , ordering the catch of the day (usually snapper) and an obligatory slice of key lime pie (note: they have whole pies available to-go).

Where to stay: Spend the night relaxing at The Reach Key West, Curio Collection by Hilton , located on a quiet stretch of beach but just a short walk from the bustle of central Key West .

An urban adventure: Boston to NYC to Washington, DC

For first-timers visiting the northeast from elsewhere in the country, or even from outside of it, experiencing these three iconic and historic cities is a necessity. This classic itinerary hugs the coast, breezing through Rhode Island and Connecticut past harbors, marshes, and the Atlantic Ocean before you skate past the Big Apple skyline. The beauty of this journey is that you can ditch your car and travel by train—all three cities are on Amtrak’s Northeast Regional and Acela Express routes. It’s one of America’s few urban pipelines that’s nearly as well-serviced by trains as Europe. Tack more cities onto the journey, or make a swap if you’d like—the Northeast Regional also makes stops in Providence , Rhode Island; Philadelphia ; and Baltimore ; among many others.

Where to stop: If you have limited time in each of these cities, you can’t go wrong with the following classic activities. In Boston, attend a Red Sox game at vibrant and energetic Fenway Park (or another sporting event, as seasons dictate). In New York, enjoy the Upper East Side with a visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, followed by a stroll in Central Park next door, capping the evening off with a drink at the Carlyle’s Bemelmans Bar . In DC, stroll the National Mall and visit the Air and Space Museum. These cities are universes unto themselves, and these are just a few ideas to get your itinerary started. To do more research on what they each have to offer, check out our official Boston , NYC , and Washington, DC , travel guides.

Where to eat: In Boston, where you’ll find some of the freshest seafood around, you can’t go wrong with a lobster roll from Neptune Oyster , which won Boston magazine’s 2023 best lobster roll award. While you’re in the North End, snatch up some cannolis from Mike’s Pastry. In New York, where the culinary options are almost more overwhelming than anywhere else on Earth, consider getting lost in Chinatown , where you can opt for something affordable yet delicious—like dim sum at Nom Wah Tea Parlor —or something elevated and special, like family dinner at Hwa Yuan Szechuan. In DC, Ben’s Chili Bowl is a must-visit stop, a landmark institution famous for its half-smokes, a local delicacy involving half-beef, half-pork smoked sausage covered in chili. For more ideas, explore our Boston , NYC , and Washington, DC, restaurant guides.

Where to stay: Kick off the trip with a stay at Boston’s timeless Fairmont Copley Plaza . The historic hotel, a repeat- Readers’ Choice Awards winner , has stood next to Boston Public Library since 1912, and has the elegance of old-time Boston, but with all of the modern amenities you'll need. For detailed, on-the-ground hotel intel, read Condé Nast Traveler’s Boston , NYC , and Washington, DC , guides to the best hotels.

Mass magic: Salem to Provincetown

Massachusetts is rife with personality-filled towns and cities, the best of which lie off the 135 miles of highway connecting spooky Salem and the colorful tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown. On the mainland, expect plenty of historical sites, important monuments, and major universities while the curling bicep of Cape Cod via U.S. Route 6 promises riveting marine experiences and a restorative salty breeze, ending in the impossibly fun LGBTQ+ Mecca of Provincetown.

Where to stop: Let Salem cast a spell on you. The city’s prolific 18 th century facades now house the likes of cool coffee shops, pop-up shops, galleries, and boutique hotels. Next, experience a different side of Cape Cod through a once-in-a-lifetime research expedition with Atlantic White Shark Conservancy (AWSC), conducting great white shark research off the southern cape near Chatham. Just south of Provincetown, pop into Truro Vineyards + South Hollow Spirits , which is both a winery and a distillery that makes gin and rum. Once in Provincetown, explore the uninhabited sand dunes of the northern Cape with Art’s Dune Tours or set sail on a highly rewarding whale watch with eco-conscious company Dolphin Fleet .

Where to eat: Experience Boston ’s foodie renaissance at restaurants like Coquette , Wood Hills Pier 4 , and Fox & The Knife . For a fancy Cape classic, dine at the Chatham Bars Inn restaurant. The waterfront dining is on Chatham Harbor, offering those much-needed views and the premium quality seafood to match. The New England clam chowder is legendary.

Where to stay: In Provincetown , settle into AWOL , a seasonal 30-key inn by Lark Hotels, located within walking distance of both Herring Cove Beach and the town’s principal thoroughfare.

Giving it 100: Vermont Route 100

Spanning more than 200 miles of idyllic New England countryside and almost the entire length of Vermont, this route takes you through countless Norman Rockwell-esque towns. Pass country stores and farm stands and explore the well-traversed stops of Wilmington, Ludlow, Killington, Warren, and Stowe.

Where to stop: In Weston, browse around the Vermont Country Store (est. 1946) where you’ll find everything from old-fashioned fudge to seersucker pajamas. In Brookfield, stock up traditional goat milk’s caramel sauce at the family-run Fat Toad Farm and watch the crew making the good stuff on this working farm (There are no tours per se but you can observe the process during daylight hours most Mondays-Thursdays). Take the time to drive slowly—and stop often—to take in the natural splendor between the mountain ridges of Stowe and Waterbury on the 14-mile Green Mountain Byway (a jazzed-up name for this highly scenic stretch of VT Route 100).

Where to eat: You can get casual authentic Mexican eats at an outpost of the no-frills, Vermont favorite Mad Taco in Waitsfield. In Stowe, dine at Plate , a small and stylish family-owned restaurant that showcases the best of Vermont’s farm-to-table riches and offers incredible vegetarian and vegan options (the veggie burger and vegan “crab cakes” are equally epic).

Where to stay: In Stowe, take in New England’s all seasons outdoor pursuits at the family-friendly (four-legged members included) Lodge at Spruce Peak . Depending on the time of year, pursuits such as hiking, skiing, mountain biking, ice climbing, and canoeing may be on offer. There are also concert series, specialty dining events, movies under the stars and seasonal installations (such as an ice-skating rink in winter), all taking place in the Spruce Peak Village next to the lodge.

Just magical: Savannah, Georgia, to Orlando, Florida

Head from one dreamy southern city to another with a 280-mile road trip between Savannah and Orlando . From Savannah’s charming Spanish moss and pastel mansions to Orlando’s joyful amusement parks, this trip feels like a ream of pages torn from a storybook.

Where to stop: Stop along the way in Spanish-influenced St. Augustine, Florida—founded in 1565, it’s one of America’s oldest cities—and pay a visit to the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, a 17th-century Spanish fortress on the waterfront. Enjoy a drink with sunset views at the Reef . If you’re a theme park person, it’s worth checking out Orlando’s many amusement parks, like Walt Disney World or Universal Studios . In Savannah, spend your time taking in the impressive architecture, walking through the historic district, and enjoying the picturesque parks.

Where to eat: In Savannah, first-time visitors should dine at the Olde Pink House Restaurant , a classic. The restaurant and tavern serves food in a 1771 mansion, and is known for the piano bar downstairs. Must-orders include the flounder and shrimp and grits.

Where to stay: Culminate the journey with a stay at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando , a 2023 Readers’ Choice Awards winner. The resort combines luxury with a cozy, kid-friendly design. Highlights include a waterpark for the kids, an adult-only pool for everyone else, and a Michelin-starred rooftop steakhouse restaurant with fireworks views. For Savannah picks, take a look at our favorite hotels in the area.

City lights to big falls: New York City to Niagara Falls

The East Coast as a whole is a marvel, but New York State is worthy of its own dedicated exploration. New York is sprawling and expansive in its qualities—from one of the world’s best cities, to the Hudson River Valley , to the Adirondacks, to the sparkling Finger Lakes , to Niagara Falls . To drive top to bottom through this diverse state, we recommend starting in NYC and ending at the falls.

Where to stop: The scenic route travels up I-87 through the Hudson River Valley, veering west through Cooperstown, before you make your way to I-90 and ride it the remainder of the way to the falls.

Ideal stops along the way include Catskill, New York; the baseball hall of fame in Cooperstown; and a detour from Syracuse to one of the Finger Lakes, such as Skaneateles.

Where to eat: In the hamlet of Catskill’s Leeds, New York, of all places, dine at one of the best Mexican restaurants in the state, Casa Susanna , which has earned accolades from the critics at Eater and Esquire . Helmed by chef Efrén Hernández and serving the interior Mexican cuisine with a focus on the flavors of Jalisco, the restaurant makes all of its own tortillas in-house and the wine list features rare low-intervention wines from Mexico. Casa Susanna is on-site at the new hotel-cabin concept, Camptown . For NYC eats, check out some of our top restaurants in the city.

Where to stay: In Catskill , stay at aforementioned Camptown, a property full of gussied-up, colorful cabins that guests get all to themselves—there are working fireplaces and everything—as well as a motor lodge with additional accommodations. (Read a full review of the property here.) Once you make your way further upstate, book a stay at Otesaga Resort Hotel in Cooperstown—a five-time Readers’ Choice Awards winner since 2017—a sumptuous and historic hotel that feels out of the past, located on a gorgeous, isolated lake.

Quintessential coastal charm: Portsmouth, New Hampshire to Bar Harbor, Maine

There’s nothing like an extended northern New England coastal drive , dotted with impossibly quaint seaside villages. From Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and all the way up the coast of Maine , roll past endless beaches and fishing harbors, artists’ colonies and historic districts.

Where to stop: Plan to spend a few mealtimes in Portland . Though Maine's is the smaller and lesser-hyped Portland, it’s become a hot foodie city where lots of young chefs—alumni of bold restaurants in New York—have gone to open their own first spots. Further north near Bar Harbor, plan a day in Acadia National Park. Take the 27-mile Park Loop Road, which curves along the boulder-strewn coastline, through dense deciduous forest, and passes sights like the iconic Cadillac Mountain. For more intimate experiences with Acadia, detour on to unpaved roads; or better yet, park the car for a bit and cycle, hike, or venture on horseback on the myriad, carless “carriage roads” that zigzag through the heart of the park. Also, make sure to hit Sand Beach, the only non-rocky beach in the park and arguably Maine’s most stunning swathe.

Where to eat: Besides all the great restaurants in Portland, treat yourself to briny local oysters and local seafood delights at Row 34 Portsmouth. In Camden, indulge in a creative, five-course, wine-paired lobster-tasting menu at award-winning Natalie’s Restaurant .

Where to stay: At one end, check into the cozy Hotel Portsmouth , which screams Americana by design and is within walking distance to the town’s prolific craft breweries and awesome restaurants. At the other, go luxe at the Camden Harbour Inn , a boutique property of Relais & Chateaux pedigree with an enviable location near the harbor action.

Florida beach bliss: Miami Beach to New Smyrna

With scenes that are both cocktail- and kid-friendly, Florida has beautiful beaches to suit every personality. Experience some of the Sunshine State’s superlative spots with a road trip that covers most of 339-mile highway A1A, starting in the flash of South Beach and ending in the unexpected surf town of New Smyrna Beach. After your fill of Art Deco, beautiful people, and parties in Miami Beach, inch up to the wide, sparkling beaches of Fort Lauderdale. Gawk at the mansions of tony Palm Beach and later cross over to the nature-steeped environs of Vero Beach, Melbourne Beach, and Merritt Island, where manatees, sea turtles, and seabirds rule.

Where to stop: Participate in naturalist-led turtle walks during nesting and hatching seasons (June-September annually) at Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge . Located between Melbourne Beach and Wabasso Beach, the Refuge is the world’s most significant area for loggerhead sea turtle nesting and North America’s most significant area for green turtle nesting. In New Smyrna Beach, hang ten or simply immerse yourself in the surf culture of this small stretch of Florida, which often receives accolades as one of the top surf towns in the U.S.

Where to eat: Experience the Miami trend of restaurant-club hybrids that promise fine dining early evening but all-out throwdowns until the wee hours. Check out downtown’s Sexy Fish , an ocean-themed, seafood-centric, Asian restaurant that dazzles by design, with over-the-top, aquatic-imbued glass mosaics and sculptures plus works by the likes of Damien Hirst and Frank Gehry. On the beach, dress to impress at MILA , a vibe-heavy rooftop Mediterrasian restaurant that attracts Miami’s style set.

Where to stay: To truly take in the pulse of South Beach, consider staying at The Betsy - South Beach , 1 Hotel South Beach , or The Setai Miami Beach —all 2021 Readers’ Choice Award winners. Upon reaching the quieter shores of A1A, settle into a room at the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel & Spa , located on Central Florida's Treasure Coast.

Brooklyn goes bucolic: A trip up the Hudson Valley

Many New Yorkers will tell you that the Hudson Valley makes for a great trip no matter how much time you have to spend—a day trip , short and sweet overnight, or a weekend getaway road trip from the city , you name it. Zip upstate on I-87 and meander through Beacon, Kingston, and Hudson, each with its own country-cool “over the city thing” vibe (think: Brooklyn in the woods). These destinations can be a road trip on tracks, too. Just hop aboard the Metro North.

Where to stop: A favorite Hudson Valley attraction is Storm King , a 500-acre sprawling lawn where you’ll find sculptures galore and more in an outdoor museum. If you don’t bring your own, rent a bike for the downhill adventure at Windham Mountain Bike Park , the longest jump trail on the East Coast, located about 30 miles west of Hudson.

Where to eat: Backbar may look like an antique garden shop, but it’s actually a bar. The creation of Zak Pelaccio (formerly of Manhattan’s Fatty Crab) is worth driving two hours to Hudson just for the dumplings and tequila-spiked-slushies. In Beacon, sample chef Brian Arnoff’s multi-course menu at his wildly popular Kitchen Sink Supper Club . The menu changes every four weeks based on what’s in season and available and is offered exclusively on Fridays and Saturday evenings.

Where to stay: Make a home base in Kingston at Hotel Kinsley , which is housed in a former State of New York bank building and offers high design in a low-key environment. Alternatively, book Hutton Brickyards , located on a 73-acre riverfront campus that was once home to a brick factory.

Northern exposure: The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

Okay, this one's going to mean crossing a border, but the minor inconvenience is well worth it. Head north—way north—to the tip of Atlantic Canada for the 185-mile Cabot Trail , a highly rewarding loop through the wilds of northeastern Nova Scotia, hugging the craggy coastline of Cape Breton Island and traversing the canyons and valleys of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The well-marked trail is dotted with small towns, fishermen villages, lighthouses, and pubs as colorful as the locals.

Where to stop: Stop in Chéticamp for a riveting zodiac whale watching experience and the chance to see some 10 species in their natural environs (Charismatic pilot whales are most often sighted). Captain Zodiac leads tours during the migratory season (June to September) to marvel at these highly intelligent creatures.

Where to eat: Grab a seat on the oceanfront terrace, and feast on fresh lobster rolls or grilled haddock and scallops at no-frills, Nova Scotian mom-and-pop Seagull Restaurant in Ingonish.

Where to stay: Unpack at the 72-room, waterfront Cabot Cape Breton . Golf enthusiasts will appreciate its world-renowned courses, but non-golfers can simply enjoy the views and comforts of the most modern accommodation in all of Cape Breton and a home base from which to explore the far reaches of the Cabot Trail.

Historic southeast: St. Augustine, Florida to Charleston, South Carolina

Journey through coastal American history —and the southern spaces that fully embrace their historic allure—starting at the nation’s oldest city (c. 1565), Spanish-influenced St. Augustine. Then, head to the South’s two most iconic cities, Savannah and Charleston , linked by US-17, where horse farms and churches mix with war relics and towering oak trees. After taking in all the southern charms of Charleston, continue to the tranquil beaches of Sullivan Island.

Where to stop: In St. Augustine, visit the famed yet kitsch “Fountain of Youth” (yes, that Fountain of Youth.) Between Savannah and Charleston on US-17, stop at lesser-known historic site Sheldon Church Ruins, the remains of a circa-1753 church set ablaze first by the British during the Revolutionary War and then by the Union Army during the Civil War.

Where to eat: Savor the cuisine of Charleston's it chef, James Beard winner Mike Lata, at his two institutions, The Ordinary and FIG (which stands for Food is Good). Experience the apex of low country fare at Circa 1886 , where Executive Chef Marc Collins uses regional ingredients and reinterprets recipes and dishes of decades past to create thoughtful dishes that keep culinary history in style (Don’t miss the “Southern Grilled Cheese” a pillow of grilled brioche stuffed with pimento cheese mousse, Surryano ham, and paddlefish caviar).

Where to stay: Stay in the center of Charleston’s historic district at The Charleston Place . Formerly part of the Belmond collection, this iconic hotel has gone independent under the direction of new ownership, which is infusing some $200 million into the storied property.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

• Destinations
• Hotels & All-Inclusives
• Theme Parks

10 best family vacations on the East Coast

Whether you're coming from near or far, the best family vacations on the east coast offer something for all ages, all year long..

• I’m an East Coast resident, a seasoned family traveler, and a former early childhood educator who has spent years searching for and trying out the best family vacations on the East Coast with my own kids.
• The East Coast is tailor-made for many different types of family vacations. I’ve curated this list to include a variety of vacation modes, personality types, and seasonal activities.

As a lifelong East Coaster who’s vacationed in spots up and down the coast with my kids, I can say with certainty that this region of the country is absolutely brimming with some of the top family vacation spots in the whole United States. And the best family vacations on the East Coast are an especially great choice for trips built around kid-friendly activities, outdoor attractions, and the natural splendor of mountains and coastline.

Whether you’re coming from near or far, the East Coast has something to offer everyone in the family. For history buffs, baseball fans, and everyone in between, here are my personal recommendations for East Coast vacations your family can enjoy any time of year.

1. The Adirondacks, New York

A region of towering mountains, old-growth forest, and pristine lakes just four hours from New York City or Boston, the Adirondacks is one of best family vacations on the East Coast all year along, and each season offers something unique to do.

The summer months were built for fishing, swimming, biking, hiking, and paddling. In winter, snowshoeing, downhill skiing, and ice skating on frozen lakes (or on Olympic ice in Lake Placid) take center stage. Fall is a family favorite thanks to a spectacular display of crimson, amber, and orange leaves igniting the landscape, and spring brings beautiful blooms to meadows of wildflowers.

Small towns like Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, and Bolton Landing dot the region, and each sit on or near idyllic lakes. There’s a yesteryear quality to these resort areas, with lakefront dining and old-fashioned mom-and-pop shops around every corner. In Tupper Lake,  The Wild Center connects guests to the Adirondacks in a thoughtful way with multimedia exhibits and 31 acres of marked trails, plus a network of treetop bridges called the Wild Walk that’s a hit with kids and parents alike.

If hiking appeals to you, try out one of the “46ers,” the 46 highest peaks in the Adirondack range; locals aspire to all, and shops like Imagination Station in Lake Placid offer wall hangings on which hikers can highlight their peaks.

Where to stay in the Adirondacks 

For families, Saranac Waterfront Lodge in scenic Lake Saranac is ideal. Situated right on the water, this kid-friendly hotel is centrally located for activities like hiking (easy to moderate trails abound), biking (rentals are available on site), and water sports including fishing, kayaking, and chartered boat rides (boats depart from the hotel’s private dock). Dine inside or al fresco at the lodge’s in-house restaurant, The Boathouse, then take a s’mores pack outside to roast marshmallows at one of the many fire pits for guests.

For those looking for a little more action, the historic Sagamore Hotel on Lake George offers year-round activities on-site including and ice bar and s’mores in winter and ice cream hour and boat tours in summer.

2. Boston, Massachusetts

I love Boston’s historic attractions, interactive museums, and ample green space. Really, it’s catnip for any family seeking an East Coast vacation with an urban feel. Compact and walkable, the city is easy to explore without a car, yet close enough to all corners of the region to serve as a launching point for other New England getaways , including seaside villages and fall foliage vacations .

There are hundreds of interactive exhibits at the Museum of Science and   more than 800 different sea species at the New England Aquarium. The Boston Children’s Museum is a great place for hands-on discovery and play, and it has a history of celebrating diversity with exhibits like “Boston Black” and the new “You, Me, We,” both with the goal to encourage dialogue around race and identity.

A visit to the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum is   an interactive way to examine this seminal event, and the Freedom Trail is a walkable path through notable destinations in America’s fight for independence. For fresh-air fun, check out the Make Way for Ducklings sculpture or ride a swan boat at the Boston Public Garden (the ducks’ favorite) in warmer weather. Or, go for a spin on the ice at the Frog Pond on Boston Common in winter. 

Where to stay in Boston 

With sweeping views of Boston Harbor and personalized service, the swanky  Boston Harbor Hotel  is always a hit with families. For rock n’ roll lovers or baseball fans, The Verb Hotel showcases authentic music memorabilia in every room and is just s stone’s throw away from Fenway.

3. Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Unplug from the 21st century for a while with a visit to Colonial Williamsburg, the largest living history museum in the United States and one of the best family vacations on the East Coast for history buffs. Roam cobblestone streets filled with horse-drawn carriages while surrounded by well-preserved 18th century buildings that capture the spirit of the times.

Kids love meeting the authentically costumed re-enactors as they go about daily chores, demonstrating crafts such as bookbinding, blacksmithing, wig-making, open-hearth cooking and more. Questions are encouraged. For foodie families, historic taverns serve menus inspired by Colonial-era recipes. 

To more deeply understand the experience of all inhabitants of Williamsburg, families should be sure to check out the Slavery and Remembrance guide , created in partnership between The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation and UNESCO’s Slave Route Project.

Where to stay in Colonial Williamsburg 

With a giant indoor waterpark and themed-rooms,  Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg  isn’t just a kid-pleaser, it’s also one of the best Great Wolf Lodge locations in the country.

4. The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Situated in the northeast corner of Pennsylvania, the Poconos Mountain Region feels like a remote East Coast vacation spot, yet it’s only a two-hour drive from both New York City and Philadelphia. Natural beauty and a wealth of outdoor activities have made these mountains a time-tested panacea for the hectic pace of urban life. Charming villages, freshwater lakes, and mighty mountains are all found here. 

In summer, hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating are popular pastimes. In winter, there’s downhill skiing at Camelback, Shawnee, and Jack Frost, as well as opportunities to snowshoe and ice-skate on frozen lakes. Spring brings high waters on the Delaware River for paddling a canoe or kayak.

Late in the year, fall vacation ideas abound when apple picking, pumpkin patches, and vibrant foliage weave a patchwork of color. And if the weather doesn’t cooperate, there are numerous indoor water parks , such as Kalahari and Aquatopia. 

Where to stay in the Poconos

One of the best all-inclusive family resorts in the U.S., homespun  Woodloch Resort has been owned and operated by the same family since 1958. With scores of activities for family members of all ages, the sparkling lake, swimming pools, ice skating, go-carts, and bedtime-friendly evening entertainment, will be a hit with all of your family members. Woodloch is an ideal multigenerational travel destination, as the variety of scheduled and unscheduled activities—including family games and evening entertainment—will bring everyone together.

5. Cooperstown, New York

While Cooperstown is best known as the home of the Baseball Hall of Fame, this all-American village on the shores of pretty Otsego Lake is so much more than just a shrine to America’s favorite pastime. With costumed guides demonstrating venerable traditions, Cooperstown’s Farmers’ Museum offers a window into rural 19th century life. Ramble about the cottages and watch a newspaper being printed or horseshoes being made.

Top it off with a ride on the museum’s Empire State Carousel (open April through October), with its 24 carved animals indigenous to New York State. The Fenimore Art Museum is another worthy stop. Built on the grounds of James Fenimore Cooper’s former estate, the approach here is please-touch and family-focused.

Where to stay in Cooperstown

Claim a rocking chair on the verandah and soak in the lake view and small-town scenery at The Otesaga Resort Hotel , a family-friendly hotel filled with history and charm.

6. Washington, D.C.

Of all the East Coast vacation spots, our nation’s capital tops the bucket list places to go with kids. You’ll find some of the most famous museums and monuments in the U.S. here, and many of them (like the Smithsonian museums) don’t cost a dime to visit. Additionally, for just $1 (50 cents for kids and seniors), go from monument to museum to metro on the low-cost, ubiquitous DC Circulator—no need for a car in this great city.

From watching the pandas romp at the National Zoo to listening to the rhythmic beat of drums at the Sunday Drum Circle at Meridian Hill Park (also called Malcolm X Park in honor of the famed activist), free options abound. Don’t skip the sparkling Hope Diamond at the National Museum of Natural History, Dorothy’s ruby slippers at the National Museum of American History, and the life-size tipi at the National Museum of the American Indian. The absorbing collection at the National Museum of African American History and Culture is another must-see.

When the hunger pangs set in, iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl offers hot dogs slathered in savory homemade chili sauce. Grab extra napkins and enjoy. Just a few Metro stops off the National Mall, families will delight in the food offerings at Eastern Market; with stalls for many kinds of foods, everyone will be happy.

Where to stay in Washington, D.C.

Swimming in history, the  Willard InterContinental Washington  is the spot where Abraham Lincoln took up residence for 10 days prior to his inauguration, and Martin Luther King Jr. edited his “I Have a Dream” speech in the lobby. The Children’s Library highlights various individuals and events that shaped the nation’s history and played a role in the hotel’s past. 

For a slightly less expensive option, consider the magnificent Kimpton Hotel Monaco . This former General Post Office is in and of itself a destination, with magnificent modern and period decor and grand spaces fit for the nation’s visitors (and 18th century mail). As Harper’s New Monthly Magazine said of it in December 1859, “We doubt there is a building in the world more chaste and architecturally perfect than the General Post Office.”

7. Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

The scenic Shenandoah Valley has many family attractions. It’s home to Shenandoah National Park, a natural wonderland with miles of hiking trails, wildlife, and stunning views along the 105-mile, two-lane Skyline Drive that’s widely considered one of the best family road trip ideas in the entire country.

For some serious subterranean fun, head down into one of the valley’s numerous caverns filled with otherworldly stalagmites. Shenandoah Caverns is the only Virginia cavern with an elevator, allowing for an easy descent for families with travel strollers in tow. And dino-lovers will enjoy a stop at Dinosaur Land, a roadside attraction in White Post with 50 giant fiberglass dinosaur statues that the kids are encouraged to climb on. 

Where to stay in the Shenandoah Valley 

Situated on more 6,000 acres in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley,  Massanutten Resort  is a huge property featuring an indoor-outdoor waterpark, golf, skiing, dining, and much more. If you are keen to center your trip around the National Park, the Shenandoah River Cabins are an ideal spot for families; located at the park’s west entrance, these well-appointed cabins have everything a family needs after a day of hitting the great outdoors.

8. Clearwater Beach, Florida

At Clearwater Beach, the sand is as soft as a cloud and the Gulf waters as deep a shade of blue as you’ll find on any of the best family vacations on the East Coast. The old-fashioned pier and palm-lined Beach Walk Promenade beg for a breezy stroll too.

After some quality beach time, shake off the sand and explore the community’s other attractions. Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a working marine hospital that rehabilitates rescued animals from sickness or injury with the goal of releasing them back into their natural habitat as soon as they’re ready. Animals who cannot be released remain for visitors to see and enjoy. The aquarium’s most illustrious former resident is Winter, the dolphin without a tail who starred in the popular  Dolphin Tale  movie.

Active families should head to the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail, a multi-use paved urban trail linking parks, coastal landscapes, and residential areas. The 37-mile trail spans St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs and cuts right through Clearwater. It attracts bikers, skateboarders, joggers, and walkers of all ages. 

Where to stay in Clearwater Beach 

One of the best Florida beach resorts and situated right on the water, Sandpearl Resort ‘s rooms and suites put their location to good effect with sweeping views of the Gulf, Bay, and coast. Décor is attuned to the natural elements, so expect soothing earth tones. The gorgeous lagoon-style swimming pool is just right for a family plunge. 

9. Burlington, Vermont

With its cute pedestrian-only cobblestone shopping district, university town feel, and lake and mountain activities, Burlington is practically bursting at the seams with New England charm and breathtaking natural beauty. But that’s not the only reason why I’ve picked it as one of the best family vacations on the East Coast. Burlington is also a remarkably versatile destination with four-season charm.

The transit lovers in your family won’t want to miss a trip to the Shelburne Museum just south of town to see the Steamship Ticonderoga. This National Historic Landmark is the last walking beam side-wheel passenger steamer in existence. While firmly on shore to see the ship, make your way back downtown to Church Street Marketplace where shoppers can stroll in a picturesque New England setting without concern for cars. Of course, reward yourselves with a visit to the original Ben & Jerry’s; die-hard ice cream fans can also book a Factory Tour, about a 30-minute drive from Burlington.

Many come to Burlington for the varied outdoor activities; visitors can bike the former rail trail that is now the Burlington Greenway along the water, take a boat ride, or hit the slopes at any number of nearby ski resorts including Smugglers’ Notch and Mad River Glen.

Where to stay in Burlington

New England is synonymous with B&Bs, and the Made INN Vermont does not disappoint for families. At this dog-friendly hotel with artistic and whimsical decor, guests won’t be disappointed with their friendly hosts and delicious food. With breakfast included, you’ll be ready to start your day and can return home to warm hospitality.

10. Savannah, Georgia

This East Coast city is sometimes overlooked in favor of its beach-y counterparts, but Savannah is absolutely one of the best family vacations on the East Coast. With its Gothic-Revival St. John the Baptist Church and antebellum architecture throughout the city, I love how Savannah absolutely oozes Southern charm.

Rail enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Georgia State Railroad Museum, which boasts historic rail cars set in the former Central of Georgia Railway Roundhouse. The Tybee Island Marine Science Center and Savannah’s Children’s Museum will keep little ones engaged in interactive learning and play.

To understand Savannah and its complicated past, the whole family can take in the balanced presentation of the city’s history at the Owens-Thomas House and Slave Quarters. Appreciate the majestic architecture and learn from deeply informed guides about the disparities in experience of the city’s least and most powerful people.

Where to stay in Savannah

With tons of family-friendly hotel options in Savannah, how do you choose? The Hotel Bardo Savannah (formerly called Mansion on Forsyth Park) will give you a quiet spot just off the park. Still walking distance from all of the hustle and bustle, Hotel Bardo also boasts a pool and bicycles for family fun.

More from FamilyVacationist:

• 12 best hotel booking sites for cheap prices
• 7 family vacations everyone will love
• 13 cheap family vacations that are super fun

Frightful fun awaits at Disneyland’s Oogie Boogie Bash Halloween party. Our guide for maximizing time and fun

8 off-the-beaten-path destinations great for family travel on a budget

Cold outside? These 7 family resorts have indoor lazy rivers you can float on all winter long

11 all-inclusive family resorts with jaw-dropping swim-up rooms

familyvacationist

Halloween is nearly here, and these regional theme parks have big plans for frightful fun this fall

Tricks and treats abound at these regional theme parks' Halloween festivities.

Major expansions announced for Disney World, Disneyland, and Disney Cruise Line

Details on the biggest expansion ever at Magic Kingdom, and more!

10 family resorts with nonstop activities for kids with nonstop energy

These hotels go way beyond simply providing a place to spend the night.

11 of the Most Epic East Coast Road Trips

03/04/2021 by Emily Becker 5 Comments

Thinking of heading out on your next road trip adventure, but not sure where to go? We’ve got you covered. Whether you reside on the East Coast or are looking for a trip out of a bigger city, this list is sure to inspire an epic journey, no matter which one you choose:

Table of Contents

11. Outer Banks, North Carolina

You may have heard of Outer Banks from the hit Netflix tv show by the same name and if so, it’s probably been on your mind to travel there! Following the Outer Banks Scenic Byway from north to south takes you through a series of islands on the coast of North Carolina with plenty of wildlife and beaches along the way.

• Corolla : This small town is known for its wild horses. Rent a bike and spend the day riding around and exploring.
• Currituck National Wildlife Refuge: A relatively undeveloped area, the refuge is a great place to get off the beaten path and explore .
• Kitty Hawk Pier : Full of historic landmarks and beach activities, this is a classic North Carolina adventure.
• Wright Brothers National Memorial: This quick stop is the site of the first controlled, powered flight which took off in 1903. Here you can even find a full-sized replica of the powered 1903 Wright Flyer by the Wright brothers.
• Bodie Island Lighthouse: A local must-see, this landmark has been around since 1847 and has an interesting history attached to it.
• Hatteras Village: This is where you can find Outer Banks’ most pristine beaches and adorable small town vibe–a great place to wrap up your trip.

10. Portland to Bar Harbor, Maine

The scenic drive from Portland to Bar Harbor is like a fantasy – quaint fishing towns, lobster, rocky coastal cliffs, and of course, lighthouses. This route takes you right through Acadia National Park, too!

• Portland: There’s plenty to do in Portland to kick off this epic trip. Take a lobster boat tour, visit a local brewery, or spend some time on the rocky beach taking in the sights.
• Boothbay Harbor: This is where you can find a rare sandy stretch of beach. Kayak to explore Muscongus Bay or catch a cruise to see whales or puffins nearby.
• Rockland: Known for its artsy vibe, this small town is home to the Center for Maine Contemporary Art. Want to get out on the water? Hop on a Maine Windjammer for a quick sail.
• Bar Harbor: A great way to wrap up the trip, Bar Harbor lies right outside Acadia National Park, which is full of sites to see. Climb to the top of Cadillac Mountain and take advantage of everything the park has to offer.

From Bar Harbor, you can take the highway back to Portland which is just a 3-hour drive.

9. Boston, MA to Burlington, VT

This is your classic New England road trip if there ever was one. With plenty of mountain views to enjoy and quaint small towns to explore, the drive between Boston and Burlington can be as long or as short as you want it to be.

• Boston: Boston is full of history and iconic architecture. Whether you want to check out the many museums around the city or explore the landmarks along the Freedom Trail, there is plenty to do here.
• Lincoln, NH: Nestled in New Hampshire’s White Mountains, Lincoln has outdoor activities galore: hiking through Flume Gorge, zipline through the trees at Loon Mountain, and so much more.
• Stowe, VT: Now onto Vermont’s Green Mountains, continue your outdoor adventure with hiking, biking, and rock climbing. After a full day of outdoor fun, head to nearby Waterbury for a factory tour at Ben & Jerry’s!
• Burlington, VT: As Vermont’s largest city, there is plenty to do and see in Burlington. Downtown you’ll find plenty of museums, a thriving art scene, and awesome New England restaurants. Burlington is also a great launching point for the Lake Champlain Scenic Byway, in case you want to extend your trip.

8. NYC to Provincetown, MA

There are plenty of options for East Coast trips starting in New York City, but this one has a special charm about it. Summer is the best time to embark on this adventure, but keep in mind that traffic is thick on the weekends as you leave the city. Try kicking off this one during the week if you can.

• Mystic, CT : Mystic is about a 3-hour drive from NYC, with plenty of little stops along the way if you want to extend your trip. This little beach town has a laid back, enchanting vibe. While peak tourism season is summertime, fall is particularly beautiful here.
• Newport, RI: Newport is the yachting capital of the world, but also a great place to sail. Take a walk on the Cliff Walk and take in the gilded age architecture and ocean views or visit some of the famous Newport Mansions.
• Providence, RI: Known as Rhode Island’s creative capital, Providence is a laid back college town with plenty to do and see. You can take a gondola on the river, bike the trails along the East Bay, or visit one of the many museums in town.
• Falmouth, MA: Just a short ferry away from Martha’s Vineyard, this is a great place to relax and enjoy the beaches of Cape Cod. Hop on the Cape Cod bike trail for a scenic ride before heading further north.
• Provincetown, MA: Provincetown is a truly charming and unique town. As America’s oldest art colony , it has a rich history and plenty of creative spaces to enjoy. Check out the nearby sand dunes on the Cape Cod National Seashore or go whale watching on the sea.

7. Washington, DC to Charlottesville, VA

Cutting right through the scenic Shenandoah National Park, this trip is full of historic landmarks, outdoor adventures, and those scenic stretches of road that make the long drive worth it.

• Woodstock, VA : This tiny town with a population just over 5,000 is a hub for Revolutionary and Civil War history. Check out the Woodstock Tower atop Massanutten Mountain and explore the newly opened Seven Bends State Park.
• Harrisonburg, VA: Another town on the end of Shenandoah National Park, you’ll arrive here by way of the Skyline Drive , the only public road that goes through the park. It’s a great place to rest and is famous for its frozen custard at Klines Dairy Bar.
• Charlottesville, VA: Home to both the Thomas Jefferson Monticello estate and the home of President James Monroe, Charlottesville is full of historical sites and quirky colonial gems, like the Michie Tavern. Catch a sunset at Carter Mountain Orchard , where you can enjoy some live music or check out the local produce they sell.
• Bonus–Richmond, VA: If you’re heading back to D.C., consider taking the long way home and stopping in Richmond for one last hurrah. Known for its eclectic food scene, craft beer, and great museums. The Institute of Contemporary Art, Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, and the Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden are all worth a stop.

6. Philly to Pittsburgh, PA

This trip is a quick one if you don’t make any stops, but there is so much to see between these two iconic cities. If you’re big on American history, this East Coast road trip is for you!

• Lancaster: Located in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, Lancaster is full of Amish culture and traditions that have stood the test of time. Take a buggy ride before stocking up on handmade Amish candy to last the rest of your trip.
• Hershey and Harrisburg: Speaking of candy, Hershey is truly an East Coast landmark. Visit the Hershey-specific attractions such as Hershey’s Chocolate World or embark on the town’s Sweet Treat Trail to really get the most out of this sugary wonderland. Nearby in Harrisburg, you can gear up for the next stop of your adventure by brushing up on your history at the National Civil War Museum.
• Gettysburg: There is so much history to discover in Gettysburg and so many ways to get immersed in it. Take a tour of the battlefield or try out any one of the town’s activities , including an apple pie making class!
• Laurel Highlands : Itching to get out into nature? This stop right outside of Pittsburgh is full of outdoor adventure opportunities, including rafting at Pennsylvania’s largest state park Ohiopyle and exploring the caves at Laurel Caverns.
• Pittsburgh: Last but certainly not least, wrap up your trip in Pittsburgh with a craft beer, a sports game, and a visit to any of the many museums in the city.

5. Baltimore, MD to Virginia Beach, VA

This East Coast road trip is a circular one, making its way down the shore to Virginia Beach and back up again on the other side of the Chesapeake Bay before landing back in Baltimore.

• Baltimore, MD: If you’re going to visit Baltimore, be sure not to miss out on its vibrant art, theatre, and music scene . The Baltimore Museum of Art and a whole collection of niche museums make this city unique and definitely worth a visit.
• Annapolis, MD: Before you do anything in Maryland’s state capital of Annapolis, you have to try their famous crab cakes at one of the local restaurants. Afterwards, check out the Naval Academy and the nearby Historic London Town and Gardens to get a glimpse of the area’s beautiful nature.
• St. Michaels, MD: If you’re looking to spend some time on the water, this is the place to do it. Kayak or paddleboard on the Chesapeake side of the bay, or enjoy one of the many tours available. St. Michaels is also home to the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum–a must-stop on this trip!
• Chincoteague, VA: This is one of the few places in the USA where you can find wild ponies, making it an awesome place for families. This quaint town is also right along the Assateague Island National Seashore , which is a quiet place to get out and explore.
• Virginia Beach, VA: A great East Coast beach destination, Virginia Beach lies between the Atlantic Ocean and the Chesapeake Bay and is most well known for its incredible food scene as its location yields some of America’s best seafood .
• Williamsburg, VA : Located nearby to plenty other historical sites, Williamsburg is the perfect launching point for a full US history tour if that’s your thing. Check out Colonial Williamsburg, the Jamestown Settlement, and many other historical sites while you visit.

4. Raleigh, NC to Savannah, GA

From inland Raleigh, along the Southeastern coast and finally landing in Savannah, this trip is full of Southern charm and kitschy stops.

• Raleigh, NC: This Southeastern city could really be a whole trip on its own with how much there is to do there, but it’s also a great launching point for this epic road trip. Make sure to take advantage of Raleigh’s impressive food scene and get out to see some live music before embarking on your journey south.
• Myrtle Beach, SC: An East Coast classic, Myrtle Beach is the kind of beach destination where you can expect to see boardwalks full of family attractions, seafood restaurants, arcades, and so much more. If you’re looking for a quieter stop here, consider heading to the salt marshes or Brookgreen Gardens, which tend to be less crowded.
• Charleston, SC: Another bigger city, Charleston is best known for its rich history, southern charm, and amazing barbeque. For a quicker trip, consider hopping on one of the many tours available, or simply take a stroll through town to check out the impressive architecture of the old homes and gardens.
• Beaufort, SC: Like Charleston and Savannah, Beaufort is full of history and beauty. Wanting to get out into nature a bit more? No worries, as Beaufort is right next to some of South Carolina’s most beautiful marshes and waterways.
• Savannah, GA: Known for its southern comfort food, huge oak trees hanging with Spanish moss, and gorgeous historic homes, Savannah is the perfect place to end your trip. Even better, it’s known as one of the ‘world’s friendliest cities’! Looking for some inspo? Check out BMTM’s Savannah Guide !

3. Wilmington, NC to Jacksonville, FL

This list isn’t complete without a truly coastal road trip full of some of the East Coast’s best beach destinations. This route is great for a longer trip, as the 7 hour drive can be broken up with as many stops as you want to make. Here are just a few:

• Wilmington, NC: Wilmington is a versatile place to start your journey as it boasts all kinds of attractions and outdoor fun. As the first American city to receive the designation of “American World War II Heritage City,” there is plenty of history here. You can also find plenty of museums, gardens, and island beach attractions in town.
• Kiawah Island, SC: While this destination is best known for its luxury beach resorts, it is also home to some incredible wildlife . The beach itself is pristine and perfect for a relaxing vacation.
• Hilton Head Island, SC: This is another more laid back beach town which boasts clean shores and plentiful wildlife. Get on the water and see if you can spot the dolphins that inhabit the area, or try the area’s famous lowcountry cuisine.
• Amelia Island, FL: Truly an enchanting destination, Amelia Island is a great place to enjoy the uncrowded beach and soak up the sun. The island is home to beautiful marshes, rivers and greenways to explore and is just a quick drive away from Cumberland where you can see wild horses.

2. St. Petersburg to Miami, FL

Florida’s landscape is diverse, making it a great place to embark on a road trip. Take in the change of scenery as you head south and consider making a few stops along the way.

• St. Petersburg: Known for its sunshine and artsy and eclectic vibe, St. Petersburg is home to plenty of museums and parks to enjoy. Don’t skip on the Salvador Dali museum, which is truly one of a kind. The Fort de Soto park is a local favorite, and of course, the waterfront is the place to be any time of year.
• Sarasota: Known for its soft white sandy beaches, Sarasota is the perfect place to soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean.
• Everglades National Park: Heading west on highway 41, take a scenic drive through the Everglades, stopping at Shark Valley along the way.
• Miami: Arriving in Miami, don’t miss the iconic South Beach and Little Havana. Dance the night away to salsa music, or take a more laid back approach and take a tour of the famous street art at Wynwood Walls.

1. NYC to Niagara Falls, NY

This is truly an epic trip to top off our list of epic East Coast road trips. Starting in NYC and heading through upstate New York, watch as the scenery changes drastically before your eyes before arriving at one of the best road trip destinations there is–Niagara Falls.

• Finger Lakes Region: We’ve mentioned the Finger Lakes before on BMTM, and for good reason. This area of upstate New York is full of outdoors activities and most of all, wine! Some of the best wine in the USA can be found here, as the climate is perfect for wine production.
• Watkins Glen: This gem of a town can be found at the southernmost point of Seneca Lake and is best known for Watkins Glen State Park where a beautiful waterfall awaits.
• Hammondsport: Home to the unique attraction Corning Museum of Glass , this small town is full of quirks. Not just that, it’s also right on Keuka Lake and therefore has plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy.
• Cooperstown: If you’re heading back to the big apple, consider stopping in Cooperstown on your way. Something unique there is the  Women’s Rights National Historical Park  which is truly a historical gem. Even cooler, there is the  National Women’s Hall of Fame  in Seneca Falls on the way from Cooperstown to Niagara Falls!
• Niagara Falls: There really is so much to do at Niagara Falls, beyond just seeing the falls themselves. Don’t miss the Observation Tower , Maid of the Mist, or Cave of the Winds while you’re there.

First Name:

From as far north as Maine and as far south as Miami, there are plenty of awesome stops along any one of these trips. Whether you’re looking to take a deep dive into American history, or just looking for your next beach vacation, the East Coast really has it all!

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Kristin says

03/04/2021 at 8:40 am

Yay! You did the East Coast road trips! Thank you!

I’ve done Wilmington to Charleston before, kind of a hybrid of a couple of yours… It was a good one. They aren’t far apart and have several good stops in between. A very relaxing trip. I did 3 nights in Wilmington and 3 nights in Charleston. Had I not been to Myrtle Beach a hundred times growing up, I probably would have stayed a couple of nights there too. But, with the limited time I had available, I just stopped in for the afternoon on my way to Charleston…

03/04/2021 at 10:03 am

I keep hearing about Myrtle Beach and feel like I have to go. Emily did a great job with this one!

bhagyashree says

03/05/2021 at 9:57 pm

The great post, thank you for sharing them, I really enjoyed all of blogs on this website, I hope you will continue to have similar posts to share with everyone.

03/07/2021 at 6:32 pm

Great job with this post! Very excited as well to see the Eastern Coast focused upon here. Great choices and some towns I have been to but sites I missed. Will have to stop by them next time I am in the area, plus use this as a guide for Rhode Island and Maine, the two remaining states I have not visited east of the Mississippi. This was a fun read! Look forward to this being added to your road trip section in Travel Resources! All these can be done solo!

Here is some additional cool things you might like: In the Philly to Pittsburgh route:

1. Hersheypark: Not much about chocolate, but awesome amusement park rides and adventures. I loved going there and then afterwards going to Chocolate World and having Hershey chocolate cocoa! Definitely after not before!

2. PA has lots of factories making yummy food (okay “junk” food) . I call it the the junk food factory tour: I grew up enjoying a variety of delicious snacks made in PA next door. Arrive in Nottingham from Philly and enjoy great Herr’s factory tour and snacks (especially potato chips!). Then head to Lancaster and enjoy the Amish candy. Then head nearby in Lititz for Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery to learn pretzel baking and try some soft ones (yum!). It is the oldest commercial pretzel bakery business in the US. Then Harrisburg-Hershey followed by going back south to Columbia for Turkey Hill ice cream factory and make you own! End the snack road tour with Thomasville to the SW for Martin’s chips and popcorn and famous Snyder’s hard pretzels in Hanover, PA. From there it is the Laurel Highland and the rest of your original trip 🙂 I saw most of these each on separate occasion but you can do it in one road trip! haven’t been to Martin’s and the soft pretzel shop.

In the NY trip: Cooperstown is a great choice! I missed a chance to see the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum last time I was up there and will visit next time, but also will look at your suggestions too! They have a farmers museum that seems neat too if you are into reliving history as they try to imitate that.

Great job Emily and all of BMTM!

03/07/2021 at 6:43 pm

Excuse the typos! “Haven’t been to Martin’s” and “I call it the junk food factory tour” (heaven bless Pennsylvania Dutch Country!)

• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Follow Me Away

Couples Travel & Travel Photography Blog

• Middle East
• North America
• South America
• Photography
• Travel Tips

15 East Coast Road Trip Itinerary Ideas!

February 29, 2024 //  by  Follow Me Away //   1 Comment

There are so many options for an East Coast road trip itinerary! I love road tripping and the East Coast states offer so much to see and do!

Whether you are interested in seeing gorgeous nature, historic sites, charming towns, or bustling cities, there are East Coast America road trip ideas in this list for you!

I’ve made sure to have options that hit almost every state on the East Coast. Some of them are all in one state, others you’ll spend time traveling to several different states.

If you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or a few days on the road, I’m sure there is something here for you.

From Maine to Florida, there is so much waiting for you to explore on an East Coast trip.

Don’t forget to check out my list of the best resorts on the East Coast if you are looking for some inspiration!

Now, let’s dive into my road trip planner for the East Coast USA!

Coastal Maine Road Trip

• Ogunquit Beach
• Kennebunkport
• Acadia National Park

A coastal Maine road trip is a great way to see the northernmost state on the East Coast.

Begin your road trip in Ogunquit Beach, which has miles of beautiful sandy beaches. You’ll also find great shopping, dining, and a nice art scene.

Continue to Kennebunkport where you can visit the quaint Cape Porpoise, a lobster-fishing village.

From there, head to Rockland. This tourist spot is famous because it’s where the mountains and sea converge. After enjoying the pretty landscape, head to Acadia National Park.

Acadia is a perfect way to end your Maine road trip. It’s got stunning rocky beaches, plenty of hiking trails, and sweeping panoramic views.

This is also one of my favorite summer trips in the USA !

Picturesque New York Road Trip

• Hudson Valley
• Catskill Mountains
• Watkins Glen

If you want a New York road trip that takes you outside of New York City, then consider this East Coast USA itinerary.

Begin in Albany, a beautiful city that is actually the state’s capital. You’ll also find one of the oldest museums in the US. The Albany Institute of History & Art was founded in 1791.

From there, head to the Hudson Valley. This is a large area of the state and where the Hudson River flows. It’s a beautiful place to unwind and admire New York’s wild landscape.

Next, head to the Catskill Mountains. These pretty mountains are where people from NYC go to reset and relax. There are lakes and rivers you can hike to and enjoy.

Continue to Ithaca, a picturesque city in New York’s Finger Lakes region. It’s also home to the ice cream sundae, so make sure you enjoy one while you’re there.

You’ll end your trip by exploring Watkins Glen. It’s a small village with a canal that goes straight through it. Stop by Watkins Glen State Park where you can hike and discover lovely waterfalls.

Florida Springs Road Trip

• Ginnie Springs
• Devil’s Den
• Rainbow Springs
• Gilchrist Blue Springs

The best way to start your Florida springs road trip is at Ginnie Springs. You’ll find some of the clearest waters in Florida. It’s made up of seven springs with beautiful white sandy shores.

From there, head to Devil’s Den. This is the perfect Florida spring for divers, as it is inside a cave. It is super unique!

Next, head to Rainbow Springs. The waters of this state park were once believed to hold magical healing powers. Now it’s a favorite spring for visitors. Float down the natural “lazy” river or swim in the massive spring.

End your road trip at the Gilchrist Blue Springs. It’s a very popular tourist destination, so make sure you get there early if you want to be able to enjoy a swim.

This Florida vacation is great for an East Coast itinerary with kids!

Kentucky Bourbon Trail Road Trip

• Woodford Reserve Distillery
• Wild Turkey Distillery
• Lexington Brewing Distilling Company
• Maker’s Mark Distillery

Kentucky is known for its bourbon, so you should absolutely take a bourbon trail road trip while you’re there!

Start at the Woodford Reserve Distillery about 30 minutes outside of Lexington. See the still, the warehouse, and the bottling process before enjoying a bite to eat in the sampling room.

Then drive twenty minutes to tour the Wild Turkey Distillery.

Next, head to the Lexington Brewing Distilling Company. They make bourbon as well as beer, moonshine, vodka, and rum.

End this Kentucky road trip at the Maker’s Mark Distillery. It’s possibly the most famous dis tillery in the state. You’ll be able to finish your trip by dipping your bottle of bourbon in their signature red wax.

Kancamagus Highway In New Hampshire

• Loon Mountain
• Hancock Overlook and Pavilion
• Sugar Hill Overlook
• Rocky Gorge Scenic Area

Do you want to experience an amazing fall foliage road trip in the US? The Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire is one of the best routes!

Start this East Coast road trip at Loon Mountain. It’s a popular ski area and a great place to stop and walk around while you admire the changing leaves.

Next, head to the Hancock Overlook and Pavilion. On a clear day, you’ll get a beautiful view of the mountains. There is also a pavilion that has plenty of infographics about the area.

Continue to the Sugar Hill Overlook. There, you’ll have a great view of the Swift River Valley and mountains covered in fall foliage.

End your road trip at the Rocky Gorge Scenic Area. There are paved walkways and a bridge you can cross. You can even walk down to the river. It’s a beautiful area and a great stop to end your northeast road trip.

Virginia Monticello Wine Road Trip

• Flying Fox Vineyard
• Pollack Vineyard
• Knights Gambit Vineyard

The Monticello Wine Trail is one of the best road trips in Virginia! The route is inspired by Thomas Jefferson’s vision of grape growing in Virginia.

This scenic wine trail can be done in a day or you can spread it out over a few days. There are 30 wineries on the trail, but I’ll mention three favorite must-sees.

At all of the vineyards on the trail, you can take tours before sampling their wine selection. Most even have a small restaurant or café where you can grab a bite to eat.

I suggest at least stopping at the Flying Fox Vineyard, the Pollack Vineyard, and the Knights Gambit Vineyard. They are all beautiful vineyards with great views, tours, and wine to sample.

Waterfalls Of South Carolina

• Wildcat Wayside Falls
• Issaqueena Falls
• Reedy Falls

This Eastern USA road trip is great for seeing some of South Carolina’s best waterfalls.

Start at the 30-foot-tall Wildcat Wayside Falls, which you can see from the highway. Park near just off the highway and take a short walk to get a closer look.

Twin Falls, the most popular falls in the state, are nearby. So make sure you make a stop there too.

Then head to Issaqueena Falls, which is just a short hike away from the Twin Falls. You get to see two beautiful waterfalls at the same spot! At over 200 feet of cascading waters, it’s an absolute must-see.

Finish your tour of South Carolina waterfalls at the Reedy Falls. The 25-foot waterfall is actually in downtown Greenville, so take some time to enjoy the city while you see the falls.

Charming East Coast Towns

• Montpelier, Vermont
• New Haven, Connecticut
• New Hope, Pennsylvania
• Roanoke, Virginia

There are so many charming small towns on the East Coast ! This road trip will introduce you to some of the most popular townsto explore.

Start in Montpelier, Vermont. It is the capital, but it is not as bustling as other East Coast capital cities. While there, head to the Ben and Jerry’s factory to sample ice cream before heading to New Haven, Connecticut.

New Haven is home to the Ivy League University, Yale. It’s the state’s second-largest city, but still feels very much like a small town.

Grab some coffee, explore the city, or hang out on one of the beautiful lawns of Yale.

Next, head to New Hope, Pennsylvania. This is a charming small arts town near Philadelphia. You’ll find some unique shops, great food, and awesome art galleries to explore.

From there, head to your final small town: Roanoke, Virginia. While there, enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery, the world’s largest free-standing illuminating star, and the town’s many parks.

Cities of the East Coast

• Boston, Massachusetts
• New York City, New York
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Washington D.C.

Are you looking for a East Coast travel guide that focuses on the big cities? You can’t go wrong with this fun itinerary as all of the cities are vibrant and interesting!

Start your trip in Boston, Massachusetts, where you can explore art museums, historic sites, and amazing food and shopping. Boston with kids is amazing, so this is a great family road trip option for you!

From there, head to the Big Apple! In New York City, you can find some unique things to do outside of Times Square . There are a ton of iconic buildings and monuments to see!

In Philadelphia, see the Liberty Bell, grab a cheesesteak, and run up the famous stairs from Rocky .

End your trip at the nation’s capital. In Washington D.C., hit up the many Smithsonian museums, admire the famous national landmarks like the Washington Monument, and learn about the founding of the United States.

Make sure to check out these Washington D.C. travel tips before you go! You are sure to have a wonderful time on this road trip down the East Coast!

The Blue Ridge Parkway of North Carolina

• Cumberland Knob
• Moses H. Cone Memorial Park
• Linn Cove Viaduct
• Little Switzerland
• Crabtree Falls

The Blue Ridge Parkway is probably one of the most famous East Coast road trip destinations. This one focuses on all the great bits of the route in North Carolina.

Start at Cumberland Knob where you can explore scenic views. Linville Falls is also nearby, so make sure you hike out to see it.

From there, head to the Moses H. Cone Memorial Park. There are hiking trails and even a manor you can tour. You may even see people horseback riding.

As you continue down the parkway, you will pass over the iconic Linn Cove Viaduct.

When you make it to Little Switzerland, walk around before hiking to Crabtree Falls to end your road trip.

This is one of the best fall foliage weekend road trip ideas on the East Coast!

Hidden Gems Of Tennessee

• The Lost Sea
• The Minister’s Treehouse
• The First Cracker Barrel Old Country Store
• Geographic Center of Tennessee

Tennessee is a great place to see some unique attractions.

Start your road trip at the Lost Sea. The Lost Sea is a lake 3/4 miles beneath the ground in Craighead Caverns. When you take your tour, you’ll even ride in a little boat.

From there, head to the Minister’s Treehouse in Crossville. The Minister’s Treehouse is a massive, abandoned structure in the shape of a treehouse.

It was built by a minister in the 1990s and was officially closed years ago due to safety concerns. But you can still admire it from the outside.

Continue to the First Cracker Barrel Old Country Store in Lebanon. You can see the original building and learn more about the chain restaurant’s early history.

End your road trip at the Geographic Center of Tennessee in Murfreesboro an hour outside of Nashville. There’s a small plaque marking this unique spot.

Ultimate New England Road Trip

• Newport, Rhode Island
• Mystic, Connecticut
• Burlington, Vermont

This East Coast road trip is all about exploring New England. You’ll do a sort of loop as you start in Boston.

Boston is the quintessential New England city, so take time to explore all it has to offer.

From there, head to Newport, Rhode Island. It is known for its massive and iconic mansions. Make time to tour one of them.

Next, head to Mystic, Connecticut. It’s a small, coastal town full of charm that you are sure to enjoy. It was also the filming location for the 1988 movie Mystic Pizza .

End your road trip in Burlington, Vermont. It’s Vermont’s biggest town and is super cool. You’ll find a great art scene, amazing restaurants, and more. It’s a great way to end your exploration of New England.

Georgia Film Buffs Road Trip

• Crawfordville

There have been so many amazing movies and TV shows filmed in Georgia . It has recently become the Hollywood of the East Coast, and this makes it one of the best Southeast road trip ideas.

Start in Atlanta, where films like Driving Miss Daisy and The Blind Side have been filmed. Even Marvel movies have been made there!

Check out the beautiful Swan House where scenes from The Hunger Games series were shot.

Next, head to Crawfordville, where you can tour the Taliaferro County Historical Society’s exhibits on local filmmaking. It’s also where Sweet Home Alabama was filmed.

From there, head to the cute small town of Monticello. In Monticello, head to the Whistle Stop Cafe, one of the filming locations for Fried Green Tomatoes .

End your road trip in Savannah. Savannah has been used as the backdrop to over 85 films, like Forrest Gump and X-Men: First Class .

This is the best road trip on the East Coast USA for anyone interested in film-making!

Historic East Coast Cities

• Salem, Massachusetts
• Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia
• Optional Extensions: Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; St. Augustine, Florida.

When everyone thinks of historic East Coast road trip stops, they think of Boston first. While Boston is a great historic city, I suggest traveling just a little outside of Boston as well to Salem.

After learning about Colonial Boston, it’s interesting to learn about Salem, which is notorious for the Salem Witch Trials. The town leans into that history, and you’ll find tons of cool places to explore.

Nearby is also Plymouth, the site of Plymouth Rock and where European Settlers first landed in New England.

Next, head to Philadelphia. There, you’ll learn more about America’s fight for freedom. Check out the Liberty Bell, see where the Declaration of Independence was written, and visit the Betsy Ross House.

Next, head to Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. While there, you’ll learn what daily life was like for Colonial Americans.

Finish your East Coast road trip itinerary in the nation’s capital: Washington D.C. You’ll be able to see the actual Declaration of Independence as well as learn more about the nation’s history.

If you have the time to extend your trip further south, consider checking out Charleston, South Carolina; Savannah, Georgia; and St. Augustine, Florida. All have a unique and fascinating history!

Pennsylvania’s Route 30

• Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium
• Dutch Wonderland
• The Coffee Pot
• The Bicycle Built For Two

If you love kitschy roadside attractions, then you’ll love the best East Coast road trip stops on Pennsylvania’s Route 30.

Start your journey outside of Gettysburg at Mister Ed’s Elephant Museum and Candy Emporium. It is full of unique elephant memorabilia, and of course, lots of candy.

From there, head to Dutch Wonderland, which is in Lancaster just off Route 30. It’s a theme park centered around the area’s Pennsylvania Dutch heritage.

Next, head to The Coffee Pot. This is a roadside luncheonette in the shape of a massive coffee pot. It has been restored, and now you can visit it.

Finish your tour of Pennsylvania’s roadside attractions at the Bicycle Built For Two. It’s a 17-foot-high tandem bicycle!

This is one of the most fun family road trips on the East Coast USA!

There are so many great things to do on the East Coast. From big cities, charming small towns, and beautiful scenery, you will have a great time!

I hope you enjoyed this list of the top road trips on the East Coast and found one that is perfect for you.

Have you ever done any of these road trips? Is there one you’d like to try? Let me know in the comments!

Reader Interactions

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Protect Your Trip »

10 epic east coast road trips to take this summer.

Spend a few days or even a week or two exploring these exciting East Coast destinations.

(Getty Images) |

Grab the keys and hit the road for a summer vacation to remember.

Baltimore, Annapolis, Md., and Washington, D.C.

New York's Hudson Valley

The lowcountry: Hilton Head, Beaufort and Charleston, South Carolina

Courtesy of Robert A. Dennis |

Boston to Portland, Maine

Florida's First Coast: Amelia Island to St. Augustine

Virginia's Shenandoah Valley

Pennsylvania's Route 30

Virginia's Eastern Shore

Miami to Key West, Florida

Connecticut to Rhode Island

You Might Also Like

• 16 Top East Coast Beaches to Visit
• The Most Scenic Drive in Every State
• 12 Top West Coast Road Trips to Take
• Top Poconos Resorts to Visit
• 20 Road Trip Essentials for Your Vacation
• RV Travel: 12 Tips for Renting an RV
• America's Ultimate 7 National Parks Road Trips

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Best fall family vacations.

Aug. 27, 2024

The Top Fall Festivals in the U.S.

Katie Hearsum and Timothy J. Forster Aug. 27, 2024

Top Music-Themed Cruises

Gwen Pratesi Aug. 23, 2024

The Best Rome Tours

Kyle McCarthy and Ann Henson Aug. 23, 2024

The Best Kids Sail Free Cruises

Holly Johnson Aug. 21, 2024

7 Best San Francisco Wine Tours

John Rodwan and Marisa Méndez Aug. 20, 2024

The Best Weekend Getaways From LA

Sharael Kolberg Aug. 20, 2024

The 6 Best Chicago Walking Tours

Holly Johnson Aug. 20, 2024

The 9 Best Mexico City Tours

Gwen Pratesi Aug. 20, 2024

Best Horseback Riding in Estes Park

Gwen Pratesi Aug. 19, 2024

20 Beautiful Weekend Getaways on the East Coast of the USA

Discover these gorgeous getaways on the East Coast of the USA that are perfect for a weekend break.

If you’re reading this post, you are probably looking for ways to leave your city for an exciting weekend getaway in a new place. As a young professional working on the East Coast, I TOTALLY understand this feeling. During a busy week, I’m always looking for ways to escape the office for a bit and avoid burnout at work.

Sometimes, a weekend trip full of new experiences is all it takes to rejuvenate the body and the mind. That’s why you’ll love these beloved weekend getaways on the East Coast.

Best Weekend Getaways on the East Coast

Savannah, georgia.

Savannah is a jewel of the American South and an enchanting weekend getaway for those looking for culture and lots of relaxed charm. 

The first time I went to Savannah, Georgia, the thing that surprised me most was the moss in the trees. I’d never seen anything like it – the spooky way the gray strands hung from the branches in the live oak trees, especially when shrouded in the fog of the morning.

This city is also one of the most historic places in the US, and also supposedly one of the most haunted. Here, there’s no shortage of charming bed and breakfasts, cute shops and market stalls by the riverfront, among many other things to do on a weekend in Savannah.

Kick things off in the Savannah Historic District where you’ll find cobblestone streets, quaint shops and an old-world atmosphere. The Gothic Revival Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is a real highlight. 

Given the city’s spooky stories, it’s also fitting to head to the Bonaventure Cemetery, a sprawling mass of intriguing tombstones including the famous “Bird Girl” statue. 

Spend a weekend meandering through some of the old neighborhoods in the city, taking a walking ghost tour, or simply sipping on a coffee and people-watching by the river.

Recommended Stays

If you’re looking for an authentic bed & breakfast experience in Savannah, the Justine Inn is super cute and cozy, and offers great value for your money. The Marshall House is a lively, historic boutique hotel located in the heart of the city that many travelers enjoy.

See all accommodation in Savannah

Asheville, North Carolina

With its charming streets surrounded by gorgeous mountains, Asheville is quite possibly the perfect place for a weekend escape on the East Coast. I’ve always found the city to be quite an unusual oasis that’s otherwise in the middle of nowhere.

Situated in a perfect vantage point in the mountains, we enjoyed some beautiful hikes and drives on the Blue Ridge Parkway. In the evenings, we sipped on local cocktail specialties and ate AMAZING farm-to-table foods and delicious North Carolina style BBQ. There are also great options in the area to plan a romantic east coast weekend getaway.

Of course, the city affords more than just hiking and food. Say Asheville and many people will think of the Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home and a French Renaissance style castle with stunning landscaped gardens. 

After something a little more offbeat? Asheville was actually the filming site of a recent Academy Award winning film – Three Billboards – and the state has even made a guide for fans to visit famous scene locations. In fact, art-lovers should rejoice as there are tonnes of galleries and studios – particularly in the River Arts District. 

For a cozy, homey good night’s rest, the Princess Anne Bed & Breakfast is a traveler favorite. One of the top-rated, locally-owned Asheville inns is the Albemarle Inn . It’s built in a beautiful, southern-style plantation home and looks comfortable and inviting.

See all accommodation in Asheville.

How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Asheville NC

Shenandoah National Park

Shenandoah National Park sits just a few hours from Washington, DC, a beautiful mountainous expanse in western Virginia. Whenever I’m feeling stressed and want to disconnect for a while, I pack my backpack and head here… and you should too. 

The Appalachian Trail passes right through the park, with miles of hiking trails that are accessible to anyone passing by. One of my favorites is the hike to Old Rag Mountain , a tough trail with scrambles and hella beaut views, but there’s also more relaxed ones, like the Dark Hollow Falls Trail that leads to a beautiful waterfall. 

Within the park, and directly outside of it, there are camping areas, lodges, and parking areas for camper vans – perfect for a weekend trip in the wild, without having to drive too far from civilization.

If hiking and camping doesn’t strike your fancy, you can enjoy the picturesque drive through the park on the famous Skyline Drive. There are scenic viewpoints of the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains every few miles where road trippers can watch the sunset or have a picnic.

For the history buffs out there, the park also has an incredibly interesting and tumultuous history that you can learn about in the visitor’s center. 

Taking a hop-on-hop-off bus to the different wineries and breweries in nearby Crozet offers cool respite from the sun (with beverages and snacks to boot!).

The best way to experience the park 24 hours a day is to camp. There are a variety of campsites operated by the National Parks Service available in Shenandoah National Park, many of which have both advanced reservation sites and first-come first-serve spaces. Several travelers in the area recommend Caledonia Farm -1812 Bed & Breakfast in Flint Hill , VA. Situated on a quiet farm, it’s a great place to unwind after long days of hiking, driving, and exploring the park.

Annapolis, Maryland

Rich in maritime history and a glorious maze of charming colonial streets, Annapolis is a delightful destination. 

As a laid-back city that’s very much the opposite of Washington, DC, I find myself wanting to stroll through the colored homes and brick sidewalks of Annapolis quite often. Some weekends, I’ll drive out there simply to catch a whiff of the sea air and drink a coffee.

Kick your weekend off by exploring the United States Naval Academy, delving into the nation’s naval history in a Beaux-Arts setting. That done, spend time wandering around the historic downtown, where 18th-century buildings house unique shops, art galleries and cafes. 

History-buffs will also want to go to the Maryland State House, the oldest state capitol that’s still in continuous legislative use.

In Annapolis, you can sip on seafood soup, or try on some handmade shoes. Peruse an art shop, or stroll through the colored neighborhoods by the waterfront. 

One of the best (and most colorful) B&B’s in the city center is the Academy Bed & Breakfast Just look at it! It’s so cute! Travelers in the area highly recommend the State House Inn .

See all accommodation in Annapolis

Portland, Maine

Many people rave about the Portland of the west, but the Portland of the east is equally as wonderful. It’s the perfect blend of gorgeous scenery, stellar food and artsy fun that I absolutely love. 

Begin your adventure by exploring the Old Port – a historic district with cobbled streets and 19th-century buildings that house cool boutiques and local art galleries. Head to the Portland Observatory for some of the best views of the city (along with a bit of history too). 

I’ll make no secret of it – Portland is a foodie’s paradise. You could spend the weekend sampling lobster dishes and craft beer (a Maine specialty) and call it one well spent.

Or, simply slip on some comfortable travel shoes and wander around the vibrant streets of the city. If you want to get a taste for local living, the farmer’s market in Portland is one of the most well-known in the East Coast, and happens year-round.

Recommended Stays 

If you’re planning a stay in Portland, the Inn at St. John provides comfortable accommodations at a great value. One of the most well-known and highest rated boutique hotels in Portland is the Portland Harbor Hotel.

See all Portland accommodation

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe, Vermont might be one of the only places on our list that’s actually most wonderful to visit in the fall or winter. While there are tons of things to do in Vermont , Stowe is one of our favorites for its natural beauty and fun outdoor activities.

Nestled in the Green Mountains, September and October bring gorgeous fall colors – reds, oranges, and yellows – to the surrounding forests and hills, while the winter brings snow and some of the best slopes for skiing on the East Coast . Verdant forests and outdoor activities like hiking greet tourists in the spring and summer.

Of course, what you’ll do will change depending on the season but should always involve spending time in the local shops, art galleries and eateries. Take a stroll along the Stowe Recreation Path, a paved trail that winds its way through stunning countryside. 

If you’re looking for a truly varied year-round east coast destination, Stowe is the perfect place for you.

For a closer look, read what Amy of Two Drifters has to say about Stowe, Vermont as a perfect romantic weekend getaway !

The coziest-looking (and, coincidentally, the most highly-rated) hotel is a Bed & Breakfast-style hotel called Green Mountain Inn . Open year round, one of the most beloved resorts in the area is the Lodge at Spruce Peak (formerly Stowe Mountain Lodge).

See all accommodation in Stowe

Saint Simons Island, Georgia

Saint Simons is a small island off the coast of Georgia, where many local people have summer homes. Part of the famed Golden Isles, it’s quiet – the perfect place for a weekend respite – and home to miles of beaches and historic sites like Fort Frederica and the lighthouse.

In the summer months, there’s no better way to start your weekend than with some time on the beach. East Beach is one of my favourites, thanks to its pretty shoreline and dolphin-spotting opportunities. 

Perhaps the most unique thing about Saint Simons island is its lovely driftwood beach. Spanning for miles, this beach is full of warped driftwood pieces, some the size of entire trees. It’s such a unique and romantic place to walk around and snap a few photos.

The King and Prince Beach & Golf Resort is one of the best and most charming beach hotels you can find on the island. 

See all accommodation in Saint Simons 

Harper’s Ferry and New River Gorge, West Virginia

West Virginia is often known for its historic coal mining operations and its rock climbing, but there are also some amazing hiking and skiing opportunities, too.

Within West Virginia, Harper’s Ferry (a national historic park) is a cute little town to visit, marked by Civil War landmarks, brick houses, and sweeping industrial bridges. Did you know that it’s considered to be the site of a raid that helped spark the Civil War?

Delve into the history with a trip to the Harper’s Ferry National Historical Park – a collection of museums and historic buildings that pull you back in time. 

That’s not all though, the town is a hiking hub – thanks to its prime position at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah rivers and landscape dotted with beautiful trails and even better views. 

The nearby New River Gorge Bridge shouldn’t be missed either, a magnificent structure built atop a staggering valley. If you’re looking for mountains and woods, West Virginia is an easy and accessible weekend getaway.

For those of you who want to stay local, the Light Horse Inn is one of the most highly rated properties in the area. 

See all accommodation at Harper’s Ferry 

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

With its tranquil atmosphere and abundance of lavish vacation homes, Cape Cod is a gem on the coast of Massachusetts and one of the most beautiful places to visit in New England . 

The miles of beaches here are perfect for wandering around for hours with a loved one. Moreover, there are plenty of wonderful seafood restaurants, golf courses, lighthouses, and shopping areas to explore.

Provincetown, at the tip of the peninsula, is a good place to start. Known for its vibrant arts scene and LGBTQ+ friendly vibes, it’s got a great variety of galleries, shops and seafood restaurants that deserve a weekend exploring themselves. 

Of course, there are beaches too – the Cape Cod National Seashore boasts some of the prettiest beaches in the Northeast – with miles of unspoiled coastline stretching out as far as you can see. Add in a couple of lighthouse trips to spots like Nauset Light and you’ve got the perfect itinerary. 

Backpackers rejoice! There’s an affordable, clean, and well-located HI Hostel in Cape Cod (Hyannis) for solo or ultra budget travelers. While beach resorts in Cape Cod are a dime a dozen, the Seaglass Inn in Provincetown seems to be the crowd favorite, and it’s just a 4-minute walk to the beach.

Charleston, South Carolina

One of South Carolina’s first cities, Charleston captures the charm of a Southern town and mixes it up with the color and quaintness of a modern-day city. 

While here, explore wacky colorful homes on Rainbow Row, or check out some of the historic landmarks like the bridges or the lighthouse. Don’t miss the Battery, a historic defensive seawall and promenade that offers must-see views of Fort Sumter and Charleston Harbor. 

The nearby beaches in Charleston also boast stunning views and sunsets that are definitely worth visiting!

If you’re a serious foodie, all-you-can-eat oysters await you at Bowens Island Restaurant, or sample southern soul food at one of the many locally-owned institutions. 

One of the most chic and best-ranked boutique hotels in Charleston is The Spectator Hotel, but there are a handful of other beautiful choices.

See all accommodation in Charleston

Lancaster County, Pennsylvania

Drive just a few hours from Philadelphia , Pittsburgh, or Washington, DC and you’ll land smack dab in the heart of Amish country – Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. 

It’s not the first place people think of for their weekend escape, but their loss is your gain as it’s perfect if you’re looking for a change of pace and to escape to somewhere quiet for your getaway. 

Spend time relaxing in a cabin, go hiking to a nearby waterfall, or take a short steam train ride through some of the most beautiful parts of the area.

That’s not to say there’s nothing to see though – downtown Lancaster has a nice variety of art galleries and quirky boutiques for you to explore. Pop into The Central Market, the country’s oldest continually-operating farmers’ market to pick up some delicious goodies to bring home. 

A few of the nicest hotels include the Lancaster Arts Hotel, which is housed in a regal brick building and boasts beautiful, well-designed interiors.

See all accommodation in Lancaster 

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

One of the most highly trafficked National Parks in the country, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a wonderful place to get some fresh air and enjoy the outdoors for a weekend.

The park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee and is a great weekend destination thanks to its diverse wildlife, lush forests and of course… those mountains. 

Why Smoky? Because, if you get up early enough on a clear day, you can watch the sunrise over misty, fog covered valleys. Head to Newfound Gap or Oconaluftee Valley for the best views. 

Here, hiking trails through craggy rocks, expansive valleys, and waterfalls are common. My favorite trail is the Cades Cove Loop for a low-key hike, Clingmans Dome (the highest peak in the park) for when I’m feeling very energetic.  You can also go white water rafting in the nearby Pigeon River.

For a few special weekends in the summer, one of the most interesting natural phenomena in this part of the world occurs – the fireflies in the Great Smoky Mountains have synchronized displays.

Camping is one of the best ways to see the park especially during firefly season, is to camp. You can find additional information and the list of available campsites on the National Park Service’s website .

On the Tennessee side of the park lies a small town called Pigeon Forge, where there are a handful of hotels and lodges. One of the most beloved of these hotels in Pigeon Forge is the Twin Mountain Inn & Suites . 

New York City & Upstate New York

New York City is the ultimate weekend getaway for people looking for action!

If you’re looking for a big city getaway that packs a punch, there’s no better place to go than NYC. Even after you’ve been to Times Square and some of the more Instagrammable places in NYC , you can get lost for days exploring the eclectic, historic neighborhoods – and eats – in the city.

For a more peaceful getaway, upstate New York is a fantastic alternative. With many parts just a short train ride or drive from New York City, Upstate New York is the city dweller’s perfect respite.

With the striking Catskills mountains nearby, the topography makes for some lovely views year-round, and there’s great hiking in New York if you know where to look.

In the fall, the leaves turn vibrant colors, illuminating the surrounding farmlands, waterfalls, hiking trails, and scenic drives. It’s easy to rent a cabin somewhere in Upstate New York and simply relax for a weekend, basking in the enjoyment of not doing much of anything.

The Perfect Two-Day New York Itinerary

Bethany Beach, Delaware

In the summer, Bethany Beach becomes a hotspot for beach activity on the East Coast, with families flocking to its shores to rent a house for a week and relax.

Vibrant boardwalks, kitschy golf courses, pretty lighthouses, and miles of sandy coastline make up this beach town, and its charm is mainly in enjoying the atmosphere.

Outdoors lovers should venture to the nearby Delaware Seashore State Park for more beaches, as well as some great fishing, boating and kayaking opportunities. 

If you get bored of Bethany, nearby Ocean City and Rehoboth offer even more miles of sun and sand. Pack up from nearby Newark, New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, or Washington, DC and head for a relaxing weekend where the sounds of the ocean surround you.

Many travelers recommend staying at the Bethany Beach Ocean Suites by Marriott.

See all accommodation in Bethany Beach 

Charlottesville, Virginia

Charlottesville , Virginia is a mountain city steeped in history, culture, and nature, and is the perfect place to spend a weekend. 

Accessible from Virginia, DC, and even areas like Baltimore and Philadelphia, a weekend in Charlottesville can be one of many different things.

History abounds here – kick things off with a visit to the University of Virginia, which was founded by Thomas Jefferson and is also home to a number of art galleries and museums. Same for Monticello, Jefferson’s old home and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that provides interesting insight into his life. 

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, and with dozens of vineyards surrounding the city, you can sample wines and enjoy the nearby rolling hills. 

Or, if adventure travel is more your thing, try hiking, mountain biking, or skiing in the nearby mountains. In the evenings, peruse the Downtown Mall, or simply go stargazing in some of the dark skies nearby. 

A hotel fairly close to the city center, the Graduate Charlottesville is located near the University of Virginia, a gorgeous, tree-lined area that’s accessible to all of the main tourist attractions of Charlottesville.  

See all accommodation in Charlottesville 

Outer Banks, North Carolina

I look back at summers of my childhood in the Outer Banks quite fondly. My family and I would pile into our van, rent a house for a week, and hang out with friends, whiling away our days on the sandy beaches, exploring a historic lighthouse, or playing mini golf at a cheesy dinosaur course.

Now that I’m back on the East Coast, I’ve been longing to return, even if just for a weekend.

With several different islands and regions, the Outer Banks, or OBX, is a fantastic weekend escape for people who like a bit of energy mixed with a bit of relaxation.

There are several regions of the Outer Banks that are popular with visitors, especially in the summer. Some of the most easily accessible areas are Duck, Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, and Corolla.

White Mountains, New Hampshire

The White Mountains in New Hampshire are quite possibly some of the East Coast’s best-kept secrets.

Although this is a year-round destination, the best time to visit is quite possibly in the fall, when the leaves change colors in the most vibrant ways. Grab a cabin or a room in an inn or lodge, sit back, and enjoy the fall colors in this gorgeous landscape of mountains and valleys.

In Jackson, NH, the Inn at Thorn Hill is a popular and highly-rated choice.

Key West, Florida

Key West is one of America’s favorite vacation hotspots, but I’d be remiss if I didn’t include it on a list of East Coast weekend boltholes, too.

With its aquamarine water, its luxury resorts, and its nightlife (something lacking in many of these other places), it’s definitely a weekend getaway for the more high-energy of you.

Hop on a boat, ride a jetski, or just watch the world go by for a weekend in one of the most beautiful beach areas of the United States.

The Douglas House is a highly-recommended hotel with a pool and cozy residences that are within walking distance of the beach.

See all Key West accommodation 

Acadia National Park

Renowned by many as one of the most beautiful parks in the country, this guide wouldn’t  be complete without Acadia National Park.

With its stunning shoreline, beautiful hiking trails, amazing stargazing options, and picturesque historic sites, Acadia is a treat for all of the senses. And the sunsets? Super beautiful.

It’s not super easy to get to – a few hours by car from Portland, Maine – but it’s worth it for anyone who truly wants to unplug amidst some of the most beautiful nature the United States has to offer.

There’s no better way to see ANY national park, much less one as stunning as Acadia, than camping. You can find more information about campsites and reserving your space at Acadia National Park here . The best luxury hotel in the area is the Bar Harbor Grand Hotel.

More US Travel Inspiration

• Brilliant All-Inclusive Resorts in the USA
• Gorgeous Places in the US You HAVE to Visit
• The Ultimate North America Bucket List
• Cool Hikes in Northern Virginia

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest! 

I’m Kay. I’m originally from small town Virginia, but have moved all around the East Coast and the United States for basically my entire life. I spent my childhood days blissfully wandering through the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling in leaves, playing in creeks…you know, the usual overly adventurous 5-year-old stuff.

But those early years spent outside gave me a real problem: I’m now an adventure addict. Basically, if I’m not at my computer banging out articles or photos, I’m probably out hiking, biking, or camping somewhere beautiful.

Related Posts

Where to Stay in Yosemite: The Best Areas + Hotels For Your Trip

Carmel-by-the-Sea Camping Guide: Best Campgrounds + Practical Tips

Where to Stay in Denver: The Best Areas + Hotels For Your Trip

7 Epic USA Itineraries: Planning The Perfect US Trip

One comment.

This is such a great list! Now that I’m based back in my hometown of Charlottesville, I’m definitely on the lookout for more convenient weekend trips. I’ve been to about five of these and am totally adding the rest to my list (and maybe contemplating some return trips – it’s been over 10 years since I was in Asheville!)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

East Coast Itinerary : Road Trip Ideas

June 11, 2020

The east coast of the United States offers up some of the most diverse landscapes and states to drive through on a road trip. From the bright lights and big cities of New York and Charleston, to the wild hills of Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley, there is so much to see and do. I have put together this east coast itinerary of road trip ideas to inspire you to visit us ‘out east’. I have split this into states, from north to south – from New York to Florida. You can either drive the whole east coast, or do small sections. Along the way I have tried to include both the obvious bigger stops, plus some of our favorite smaller or lesser known points of interest.

What are you waiting for? Your east coast road trip awaits!

(At this time I have left off Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut and Rhode Island; as we haven’t spent time up that way. We will add these in as soon as we get an opportunity!)

New York City

The Big Apple is one of our most favorite cities. We have experienced spring, summer, and winter during multiple visits. New York City is the perfect location for a family vacation , a couples getaway , or to celebrate a special occasion . The must see attractions include the Statue of Liberty , the Empire State Building (completely renovated), One World Observatory , Central Park, the Top of the Rock, Ellis Island, Broadway, and Times Square. The ‘city the never sleeps’ offers something for everyone and is our favorite city on the east coast!

Lodging: Our preferred hotel in NYC for a special occasion is the Trump International Hotel . We chose this hotel for Payton’s 9th birthday celebration. The staff went above and beyond to make her long weekend extra special. Another one of our favorites is the Marriott Marquis located on Broadway in Times Square. This location is perfect for sightseeing in the Big Apple.

Niagara Falls

Even though Niagara Falls is located many miles inland from the coast and New York City, there are day trips available from multiple tour operators. This can be done by motor coach or by air depending on the amount of time and money you wish to spend. Niagara Falls is a bucket list trip for many and I would highly recommend it if you are visiting New York state. Niagara Falls offers many activities including boat rides , zip lines over the falls, fireworks, and more. Most of these activities are located on the Canadian side of the falls so a passport would be required.

TOP TIP: If you’re starting your road trip in New York City, I recommend that you choose to pick up your rental car at Newark Airport, rather than in the city or at JFK. Newark Airport is right near the I95 highway that will take you south.

The Wildwoods and Cape May

If your travels lead to New Jersey, a visit to The Wildwoods and Cape May is definitely recommended.  Most residents of the tri-state area (Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware) refer to the beaches as “the shore” or “going down the shore” as a destination. 

Over 9 million visitors travel to The Wildwoods and Cape May each summer. They come to enjoy the expansive beaches, massive boardwalk (greatest Boardwalk in the world), wildlife-spotting tours , and endless entertainment. These are the very things that have led The Wildwoods and Cape May to become the recipients of numerous “best” awards over the years. Year after year, generations of visitors come to reminisce joy-filled memories of their childhood, summer-time friendships, and family gatherings.      

Washington Crossing Historic Park

“ The park preserves the site where George Washington crossed the Delaware River and turned the tide of the Revolutionary War “ Washington Crossing Historic Park

The Washington Crossing Historic Park is located in New Jersey and Pennsylvania depending on which side of the river you are standing on. It is a perfect stop along the way if driving from one state to the next. The short drive across the bridge makes it possible to see both sides of the river in just minutes. The park (on the Pennsylvania side) provides over 500 acres of American history, outdoor space, and family fun. We enjoy learning and teaching history by standing in the place where the event occurred. In our opinion it helps make history real.

Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is a very diverse state that we have not fully discovered as of yet. Our time so far has been within the city of Philadelphia.

We are planning to return in October 2020 to discover Lancaster. This area of Pennsylvania is often referred to as Amish Country. Lancaster County is America’s oldest Amish settlement, where thousands still live a centuries-old “plain” lifestyle. Visiting Amish Country allows you to step back in time to experience a slower and more peaceful pace, where horse and buggy remain the primary form of transportation. Lancaster is also home to the Sight & Sound Theatre.

Sign up to our newsletter

To receive travel inspiration straight to your inbox!

Philadelphia

Our focus when visiting Philadelphia was to experience the history of our Country. The majority of the historical sites can be seen on a walking tour either on your own or with a group, or on a hop on-hop off bus tour . We chose to explore on our own. We visited the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in one morning. Independence Hall is where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both debated and signed and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We were fortunate enough to visit on the 230th anniversary of the signing of the Constitution. It was an experience that is difficult to describe, but more of a feeling when standing in the same room where history was made. Other historical sites within walking distance include the Betsy Ross House, Elfreth’s Alley, the Museum of the American Revolution, the National Constitution Center, the Benjamin Franklin Museum and the National Museum of American Jewish History just to name a few.

The Gettysburg National Military Park protects and interprets the landscape of the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg. This battle, know as the turning point in the American Civil War, was the bloodiest battle and also the inspiration for President Lincoln’s “Gettysburg Address”.

Our only mistake when visiting Gettysburg was not allowing enough time to really experience everything. The park itself is over 9 square miles. There is a museum and visitors center full of information, videos, and the famous Cyclorama painting that is a must see. There are self-drive and walking tours available as well as coach tours that take you to different places on the battlefield. I would allow one full day, if not two, when visiting.

Antietam National Battlefield is located in northwestern Maryland. It commemorates the Battle of Antietam that occurred on September 17, 1862. Our visit occurred on the same day, 155 years later. The National Park area includes the battlefield site and visitors center, a national military cemetery, stone arch Burnside’s Bridge, and a field hospital museum. Since our visit occurred on the anniversary of the battle, we were able to experience many reenactments and hands on experiences.

There were volunteers present dressed from the past with items from the time period on display as well. We also experienced the music from the marching band and the live firing of the cannons. There is a big difference in learning history from a textbook and experiencing it hands on.

Washington D.C.

Our Nation’s Capitol is one of our favorite cities on the east coast. From the famous monuments and memorials, to the art and culture, to the plethora of dining options, there is something for everyone. Just as with New York City, it is impossible to list everything here. This is a brief summary of our favorite places to visit that we would recommend. We suggest a minimum of 4-5 days to see the highlights of the city.

The National Mall: Monuments and Memorials

The National Mall is America’s most visited National Park with 25 million visitors per year. That is more visitors than Yellowstone, Yosemite and the Grand Canyon combined. The monuments and memorials in this park honor American forefathers and heroes who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to this country. I remember seeing the excitement in Payton’s eyes when she first caught a glimpse of the Washington Monument towering in the sky. There really is something majestic about the site.

Other notable monuments and memorials include the Lincoln Memorial, the National World War II Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. We enjoyed an entire day walking the mall and visiting each of the sites. Make sure to wear your best walking shoes as the mall is a massive 146 acres. The distance between the Capitol at one end and the Lincoln Memorial at the other end is two miles.

Smithsonian Museums

The Smithsonian offers eleven museums on the National Mall with six additional museums and the National Zoo in the greater DC area. Our 2 personal favorites are the National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum. Both museums are massive in size and admission to both is free. The Museum of Natural History is larger than 18 football fields and home to the largest collection of natural history in the world, including the Hope Diamond. It is the world’s most popular natural history museum and is dedicated to understanding the natural world and our place in it.

The Air and Space Museum is the flagship building on the National Mall. Once inside you are immersed in the history of flight and air and space travel. There are exhibits including aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, rockets, and other flight related artifacts. The museum also offers an IMAX theater onsite for out-of-this-world experiences. There is a minimal cost for the IMAX tickets, but I would highly recommend them.

There is also a flight simulator available for an additional fee. The only regret I had with the simulator was giving Payton complete control. She is much more of a dare devil than I am and we spent much of our ride flying upside down suspended by the seat belts!

The White House, U.S. Capitol, and Pentagon

During our visit we were fortunate enough to be able to tour the White House, the US Capitol, and the Pentagon. Please note, tickets to these locations must be requested and approved many months in advance and background checks are required. We requested ours in the spring for a September visit. In addition to the tours, we were also able to sit in session in the House of Representatives. This gave Payton the opportunity to watch bills be introduced, debated, passed, and/or rejected.

The Pentagon tour also included time viewing the 9/11 memorials. This was one of the most enlightening and humbling tours that we took part in. This area is also the most secured area we visited. Cell phones must be off at all times or they will be confiscated. Tours of these 3 locations would be fantastic for school children and adults as well.

Other DC Attractions

If you have additional time during your visit to DC, I would recommend a bus or trolley tour of the area. We took part in this on our first evening in the city and chose the night tour. It was beautiful to see the city and all of the monuments lit up at night. The International Spy Museum, Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, the Library of Congress, the US Supreme Court, the Shakespeare Library, and the Ford Theatre were other attractions that we would recommend depending on your interest and the amount of time you have available.

Where to stay in DC

There are many hotels to choose from in DC including all of the popular brands. However, we chose to stay in a row house near the Capitol. These homes and/or apartments can be rented by the week or longer. They include multiple bedrooms and a kitchen. They are conveniently located to the National Mall and most of the popular attractions and parking is included. Considering that we were on a road trip this was a major savings to us. Most hotels in DC charge anywhere from $30-50 a night parking.

For shorter stays I would recommend the Sofitel Layayette Square in DC. This hotel is located only 1300 feet from the White House and is a fabulous location for sightseeing. There is also a restaurant and lounge on site for convenience. A more budget friendly option with a great location would be the Hamilton Hotel on 14th Street.

Let us help you plan your next trip, with our full service Travel Agency !

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is commonly visited during a trip to DC. However, it is actually located in Virginia, just across the Potomac River from DC. The cemetery honors those who have served our nation and provides a sense of beauty and peace. The impressive grounds serve as a tribute to the service and sacrifice of every individual laid to rest within these hallowed grounds. Arlington National Cemetery conducts between 27 and 30 funeral services per day during the week and between six and eight services every Saturday.

When visiting Arlington you must witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This elaborate ceremony occurs every hour on the hour from October 1 through March 31 and every half hour from April 1 through September 30. There are currently more than 400,000 people buried at Arlington including John F Kennedy. The cemetery attracts more than three million visitors a year. I recommend a guided walking tour to get the most out of your visit to Arlington.

Mount Vernon

Travel back in time to 1799 (the year of George Washington’s death) when you visit  Mount Vernon .  The Mansion closely resembles its state when Washington walked the grounds. Original furnishings, period pieces, and reproductions help you see what life was like over 200 years ago on this plantation.  There is so much to see and do here that it is perfect, not only homeschoolers, but for anyone interested in our nation’s history.

General admission tickets purchased online are $18 for adults and $11 for children.  They also offer discounts for senior citizens and military.  The ticket provides you access to the museum, the grounds, and a timed tour of the mansion.  We upgraded our tickets to include an after-hours tour of the mansion that allowed us to visit more than just the first 2 floors of the mansion that is open to the public.   You can also take guided tours of Mount Vernon from Washington DC.

Photos are not allowed inside the mansion so you will have to visit for yourself to see inside.

Luray Caverns

The Luray Caverns is the largest and most popular caverns in the eastern United States. This underground world is breathtakingly beautiful featuring towering stone formations, natural geological wonders, cathedral-sized rooms, and ceilings 10-stories high. The caverns recently became step free as well. The steps that once led tours into the caverns are now bypassed by a looping covered walkway and 164 foot corridor. It is now one of the few underground marvels providing both a step free entrance and all paved walkways making it more accessible to all visitors.

Tickets to the caverns is $30 for adults, $15 for kids 6-12 years old, and free for children under 6. The ticket price includes admission to the Car & Carriage Caravan Museum, Shenandoah Heritage Village, and Toy Town Junction. Other attractions on site that can be added include the garden maze and the rope adventure course. We enjoyed the garden maze and were very proud that Payton was able to help us find the way out.

Skyline Drive & Shenandoah National Park

From the dark depths of the Luray Caverns , to the majestic heights along Skyline Drive in the  Shenandoah Valley  – this area offers amazing contrast.  You can take the Skyline Drive  from Luray all the way to the south entrance of the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Very few destinations offer the diversity of attractions found in the Shenandoah Valley. The Shenandoah Valley combines scenic beauty, natural caverns, historic sites, and thriving cities with music, arts, festivals, superb dining and shopping. Historic inns, mountain cabins, fine hotels and full-service campgrounds make it easy to plan a romantic weekend or an outing with the kids.

We drove Skyline Drive the entire distance between Luray Caverns and Staunton Virginia and it is one of the most beautiful routes anywhere. There is a shorter route between the two points, but the natural beauty is worth the extra time. In one single day we went from the depths of the Luray Caverns (260 feet deep) to the highest point along Skyline Drive (3,680 feet high). There are many hiking trails in this area as well including a 101 mile portion of the Appalachian Trail .

Frontier Culture Museum, Staunton

The Frontier Culture Museum brings the past to life in Staunton, Virginia. A walking tour of the mostly outdoor museum features exhibits from the 1600s through the 1850s. Included are farms from West Africa, England, Germany, Ireland, and America. We visited on a homeschooling day and each exhibit included dedicated interpreters that offered hands on activities for the children.

Tickets are $12 for adults and $7 for children age 6-12. There are also picnic tables on site if you would like to bring your own lunch and snacks. The museum is fun for the kids and educational at the same time.

Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum

Also located in Staunton is the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum . The campus includes his birthplace, often referred to as the manse, the Smith Center, the Museum, the Library and Research Center, and the Historic Gardens. Payton enjoyed the scavenger hunt as she learned more history and even won a $100k “prize”. There is a Fairfield Inn and Suites in Staunton that is perfect for visiting the sites in the area.

Approximately 40 miles east of Staunton, just outside of Charlottesville, you will find Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson. Not only was Jefferson the 3rd President of the United States and the author of the Declaration of Independence, he was also a lawyer, architect, writer, farmer, and scientist. All of these talents are evident in his home still to this day. The gardens and grounds are beautiful and the inventions inside his home are astonishing given the time period of his life. There is also a museum on site with activities for the kids and a gift shop for all ages. We learned so much during our time here.

Take a private full day tour from Washington DC for the history fans!

Appomattox, Virginia

Appomattox Virginia is located 60 miles south of Monticello and is undoubtedly most famous for the Appomattox Court House . The location of the surrender, and therefore the end of the American Civil War. This location is now part of the National Park Service and is a perfect stop for history lovers and homeschooling families . The area in and around the courthouse is open to visitors including the McLean House where the famous meeting took place. There are volunteers on site dressed in period clothing to tell the stories from the past. Half a day here is plenty of time to stroll the grounds and learn the history.

Where to stay in Virginia

Babcock house bed & breakfast.

During our visit to the Appomattox region of Virginia we chose to stay at the Babcock House Bed & Breakfast . The cozy 2-story home is perfect for couples and families visiting the area. We chose adjoining rooms for our stay. The innkeepers were helpful, courteous, and attentive and the meals were fabulous. A perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of exploring.

North Carolina

The Biltmore , located near Asheville, is by far the most popular attraction in North Carolina. The home was completed in 1895 for George Vanderbilt and remains the largest privately owned home in the United States at 178,926 square feet. The 8,000 acres surrounding the home include a winery, lush gardens, restaurants, and miles of hiking trails. There are a variety of tours to choose from as well. Christmas at the Biltmore is extra spectacular and lasts throughout November and December. Remember to check their website before your arrival for the most up to date lists of events taking place.

Hotel: Stay at the Residences at Biltmore for lodging close to the Biltmore Estate.

Grandfather Mountain

Grandfather Mountain is located roughly 70 miles from Asheville. Here you will find the Mile High Swinging Bridge , America’s highest suspension footbridge. Located one mile above sea level the bridge was built in 1952 to provide visitors easy access to the breathtaking view of Grandfather Mountain’s Linville Peak. The mountain area is perfect for hiking and experiencing nature with ranger led activities or on your own. This area is also home to Boone, NC and Sugar Mountain, which are famous for their skiing and wintertime activities.

South Carolina

Patriot’s point.

Patriot’s Point Naval & Maritime Museum , home of the USS Yorktown, is located in Charleston. This is another location on the east coast packed full of hands on history and education including sleepovers onboard a navy ship, flight academy, school trips, and adult group trips. After a self guided tour onboard the USS Yorktown and the USS Laffey you must visit the museum exhibits, the Apollo 8, The Medal of Honor Museum, and the flight deck. There are multiple aircraft to discover and the views of the harbor are breathtaking. Ticket prices are $24 for adults, $16 for kids age 6-11, and FREE for military.

South Carolina Aquarium

The South Carolina Aquarium is also located in Charleston and is the perfect addition to an educational experience. The aquarium tank itself is 2 stories tall and houses over 450 residents. The aquarium is also home to the Zucker Family Sea Turtle Recovery. This is a rescue and rehabilitation center for sick and injured sea turtles that is visible to the public. You may experience the complete process from rescue to rehabilitation to release. A wonderful learning opportunity for all ages.

The aquarium also includes exhibits from other regions including the mountain forest, piedmont, coastal, ocean, and a touch tank for true hands on learning. Ticket prices are $29.95 for adults and $22.95 for kids 3-12. I would highly recommend adding a behind the scenes tour for the shark feeding from the top of the tank!

Back in 1864 the Civil War submarine, the H.L. Hunley , vanished in the middle of the night. The submarine remained at the bottom of the ocean for 131 years until it was discovered in 1995. Since then it has been raised and restored and is on display in its new home in Charleston. If you are visiting on a weekend then you must visit. Tickets include a guided tour of the Hunley and a self guided tour of the museum where you will find multiple artifacts including the legendary gold coin that once belonged to Captain George Dixon. The mystery and the tour will leave you asking yourself “what really happened on that dark night long ago”?

Where to stay in South Carolina

With 2 full days of sightseeing in Charleston, we needed somewhere to unwind and rest that was also conveniently located to all of the sights. As Marriott reward members, that is where we normally look first. The Renaissance Charleston Historic District did not disappoint. The location of the Renaissance is perfect for exploring the historic district and the hotel itself is beautiful.

Savannah Historic District

Savannah is a coastal city in Georgia best known for its parks (also referred to as squares). Remember Forrest Gump enjoying his box of chocolates while waiting for the bus in Savannah to visit Jenny? The historic district also includes horse-drawn carriages, trolley tours and antebellum architecture. The downtown area, including River Street and City Market, is filled with cobblestone streets, history, and loads of fabulous dining. Forysth Park, shaded by oak trees covered with Spanish Moss, is a highly photographed site downtown. I highly recommend dinner on River Street while watching the sunset over the Savannah River.

Lodging: Our favorite hotel on River Street is the Bohemian . The rooftop restaurant and lounge makes it our first choice. A more budget friendly option would be the Marriott Riverfront . Both of these hotels offer fabulous views of the Savannah River and are within walking distance of the historic district sites.

Other Savannah Attractions

Tybee island.

Tybee Island is located about 30 minutes east of Savannah. The area is best know for the amazing sunrises, the pier and pavilion, and the historic Tybee Lighthouse. There are plenty of hotels and restaurants in the area as well. Dolphin tours are extremely popular and a great way to spend time on the water. The salt marshes here are teeming with birds and wildlife unique to Georgia’s coast. Tybee Island is perfect for a day trip from Savannah or a weekend of its own.

Fort Pulaski

Fort Pulaski is located on Cockspur Island between Savannah and Tybee so it is the perfect addition on a day trip to the beach. The fort was used during the American Civil War and is now a National Monument. The entrance fee is $10 per person age 16 or older and free for those 15 and under. The fort allows visitors the chance to experience many interesting and exciting activities year round. The main structure includes demilune, drawbridges, ditches, and dikes. It is a fine example of historic military architecture. The indoor exhibits highlight the history of Fort Pulaski from the construction to its fall.

Jekyll Island

Jekyll Island is located just off of I-95 ninety miles south of Savannah. It is one of the most popular islands for those who visit coastal Georgia and is the southernmost island of the Golden Isles. This 5,500 acre island is home to a variety of events, shopping, and restaurants. There are many family friendly activities and attractions such as the iconic Driftwood Beach, the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, and Summer Waves waterpark. Golfing, tennis, horseback riding, bike riding, and charter fishing are also very popular on Jekyll. For charter fishing we always choose Reel American Charters . Captain Brian is very knowledgeable and makes fishing easy for even people like me.

Hotel recommendations : Try the Westin – this beautiful Marriott hotel offers amazing views of the ocean, fine dining, and more casual dining by the pool as well. It is also conveniently located in the center of the most popular shopping and dining area. If you prefer a marsh view in the historic district, I would definitely recommend the Jekyll Island Club .

The Clubhouse Fun Zone

Being natives to Georgia, we can’t leave out the city located closest to our home. Statesboro is located just off of I-16 approximately 50 miles west of Savannah and is home to Georgia Southern University. When it comes to fun and entertainment here, our first choice is The Clubhouse . The Clubhouse includes miniature golf, go carts, bowling, laser tag, and an arcade. You can also enjoy awesome food and drinks in the bar and grill area. We have visited multiple times and always find it fun and entertaining.

Splash in the Boro waterpark

Statesboro is also home to Splash in the Boro waterpark, another favorite of ours. The waterpark includes a wave pool, a lazy river, multiple slides, a flow rider surf simulator, an area for the younger children, a tiki hut, and a snack bar.

[EDIT: The park is temporarily closed for the 2020 season due to COVID but is scheduled to reopen in 2021. Make sure to check their website before planning a visit.]

Dining in Statesboro

There are many restaurants we enjoy in Statesboro, but we are always drawn back to Coconut Thai Cuisine . It is by far one of our favorite restaurants anywhere. Authentic Thai food, friendly staff, and a cozy atmosphere make it one that we highly recommend.

Further inland…

The capital city of Georgia is located 3.5 hours northwest of Savannah. The highlights of Atlanta include the Georgia Aquarium, the Atlanta Zoo, the College Football Hall of Fame and the World of Coca-Cola. For the sports enthusiast Atlanta is also home to the Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Falcons. The dining options are endless within the city. One of our favorite fine dining experiences is Nikolai’s Roof located on the top floor of the Hilton Atlanta. Not only is the food amazing, the experience is truly unforgettable.

Hotels in Atlanta: Are you looking for a hotel with a view of the city? Try the Marriott Marquis to experience the view seen here. This hotel provides multiple dining and lounge options and is a convenient skywalk away from Nikolai’s Roof on top of the Hilton Atlanta .

Stone Mountain

Stone Mountain Park is located only 25 miles northeast of Atlanta. The park includes 3200 acres of natural beauty, family friendly attractions, outdoor recreational activities, and onsite lodging. The summit is 1,686 feet above sea level. There is a sky ride you may take to the top or you may hike the distance as we have done in the past. There are many seasonal activities here as well.

Hotels: Our favorite hotel within the park is the Atlanta Evergreen Marriott Conference Center .

Helen is located less than 2 hours north of Atlanta in the North Georgia mountains. This alpine town was given a Bavarian makeover in the 1960s, in an effort to revitalize the town. With a current population of only 430 residents in 2.1 square miles, it is now the 3rd most visited city in our home state of Georgia. Some of our favorite things to do here include hiking, fishing, visiting waterfalls, tubing down the river, the waterpark, the multiple zip line courses, the shopping, the wineries, and of course the food! Every time we visit we discover something new.

Lodging: When visiting Helen we prefer to stay in a cabin such as the ones at Bear Creek Lodge and Cabins . These accommodations are family friendly, pet friendly, and offer many on site activities such as fishing and tubing. For more upscale lodging we recommend the Valhalla Resort . This resort is adult only and includes a spa, multiple restaurants, and a golf course on site. For Marriott reward members there is also a Fairfield Inn and Suites available.

Lookout Mountain

On the north Georgia – Tennessee border near Chattanooga you will find Lookout Mountain . This area is famous for the ‘See Seven States’ lookout point and Ruby Falls, the nation’s tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public. You will also find an incline railway, See Rock City, historic sites, and beautiful hiking trails in this area.

Accommodation: The Fairfield Inn and Suites is conveniently located to all of the attractions and dining.

Amelia Island

Amelia Island is a barrier island in northeastern Florida boasting amazing sunsets, luxury resorts, and sandy beaches. Full of history, tours, and cruises there is something for everyone. Restaurants are plentiful as well, many providing on ocean view while dining. Ideal for a family vacation or a romantic couples weekend . Amelia Island is a fabulous beach option near the Georgia – Florida line.

St Augustine

St. Augustine is located on the northeast coast of Florida and is the oldest city in the U.S. The city is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and sandy beaches. Some historical places of interest include Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fortress with drawbridges, the Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth, an old jail, and the Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. There is also an abundance of restaurants in the area as well as trolley tours that allow hop-on hop-off services throughout the day. One of our favorite family friendly attractions is the Ripley’s Believe it to Not Museum .

Hotel Options: The historic district of St Augustine offers a wide variety of lodging. There are adult only options that include breakfast such as The Collector Inn and the Historic Seville House . There are also budget friendly family options such as the Pirate Haus Inn offering larger family rooms. For ocean side lodging there is the Embassy Suites Oceanfront Resort that includes a pool, hot tub, and fire pit ocean side.

Port Canaveral

Port Canaveral is located on the east coast 50 miles east of Orlando. It is one of the busiest cruise ports in the world. It is also neighbors Cape Canaveral, the home of the Kennedy Space Center. Cocoa Beach is the most popular beach in this area. Before embarking on a cruise, we choose stay in Port Canaveral the night before. It makes departure day less rushed and more relaxing.

Park & Cruise: We always choose to stay at the Radisson Resort at the Port or the Four Points by Sheraton that both offer free shuttle to the cruise terminal and parking while you are away.

Orlando Florida is located 50 miles inland from Port Canaveral. This area is most famous for Disney World and the many other amusement parks. It is any child’s dream come true vacation. However, Disney is just the beginning. There are so many other things to do in Orlando such as swimming with the manatees, Discovery World, Sea World, and Gatorland. Orlando is the ultimate family vacation destination.

As we visit more places ourselves, we will add them to this east coast itinerary!

Whether you are looking to drive the entire east coast or just parts of it, I hope that these road trip ideas have given you some inspiration. The east coast has so much to offer, from museums and heritage sites, to vibrant cities. When plotting your east coast itinerary, bear in mind that the east coast of the United States consists of 14 states and over 2,000 miles of shoreline. I hope that the 10 states I have discussed, along with the District of Columbia, give you some idea of what this side of the U.S. has to offer. As we continue our quest to show Payton all 50 states, I will add the others from the east coast here as well. Happy planning, we can’t wait to welcome you out east!

Let us help you plan your east coast itinerary, with our full service Travel Agency !

Copyright © Endless Family Travels – all rights reserved. Photos and content cannot be used without express permission.

Endless Family Travels is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

37 thoughts on “East Coast Itinerary : Road Trip Ideas”

I’m seriously thinking about taking a road trip this summer. You gave a lot of great ideas! I live in North Carolina, so this is perfect my family and I.

North Carolina would be a great starting location for any of these ideas. Enjoy!

In NY, I’d like to visit where my ancestors lived in the 1700s like the Schoharie & Schenectady counties

That would be a special trip for sure!

Great list! We’ve been to some of them, and some of them are on our list! We had a wonderful time in Gettysburg, Savannah, and Charleston, and we would go back to those anytime! St. Augustine is where we usually go after a Disney road trip to relax. Love this!

Thank you! It sounds like you enjoy the east coast as much as we do!

So many amazing places!! Wow, there’s a lot of research gone into this post and you guys have seen some important and beautiful places. What an incredible opportunity for your daughter! ❤️

Thank you! Homeschool is so much easier for us hands on.

This brings back so many memories of my childhood driving up and down the east coast to Florida and stopping at the destinations along the way. This could be one epic road trip.

Same here. Growing up in Georgia, Florida was the most common vacation. There is so much to see and do on the east coast.

This is a fabulous road trip itinerary. While we lived on the East Coast for seven years you have featured many cool places we have never visited. Definitely pinning this as a future resource.

That is great! Thank you : )

I love the east coast. I grew up living in and visiting so many of these areas. Thank you for the memories!

I am so happy that you enjoyed it Tricia!

I have always wanted to bed and breakfast up the coastline to Maine! I hope to still do that someday!

I can’t wait to visit Maine!

What an amazing trip! You covered so much in this and now I want to pack my bags for a road trip. Saving this for later!

Awesome! I hope it is helpful for you when you begin planning.

New Jersey and Pennsylvania are two places that I haven’t spent a lot of time. I’d love to go to Philadelphia one day.

Thank you for sharing these awesome ideas! We haven’t explored Charleston or Savannah yet, but your post makes me want to go soon!

You will love both of them no doubt!

I just love the East Coast! I can’t wait to take my kids and explore!

Our families need to swap places for awhile and explore. We can’t wait to make it out your way.

The east c.oast is amazing. You need to come further north to see the true beauty 😉 This is a great itinerary. I would love to do this

This would be an awesome road trip! I’ve been to quite a few of these places since I’m from the East Coast, but my husband hasn’t been to any of them (except for our recent trip to Florida). We have a Williamsburg/DC trip planned, we just need to find out when we can book it.

These are all wonderful suggestions! I’ve visited Philadelphia, Atlanta and St Augustine. I’d love to visit the rest on the list.

I love these! We have done many of them. It looks like we have similar tastes in travel.

road tripping is one of my favourite ways to travel and this looks like the perfect place to do it!

Such great ideas! I’ve been dying to do a east coast road trip during the fall, but I always wait until the last minute and everything is sold out! Maybe this year 🙂

I hope this year is your year to explore the east coast!

Goodness what an epic road trip! You could spend months and months exploring all these amazing areas. I have to admit, I have never set foot on this side of the States, so this is all new to me. I LOVE the look of the mountainout areas like Skyline Drive & Shenandoah National Park and Grandfather Mountain!

p.s. LOVE the photo of the future president!

You really need to come out east and explore! There are so many unique areas. Btw, she changed her mind about being President after she found out that secret service would follow her everywhere the rest of her life : ) lol!

This is a great family trip itinerary! I have been to several of these places before but never with my kiddos- guess I just need to go back. 🙂 Mount Vernon and Niagra Falls are great picks! And Savannah looks like a great place to visit

If I ever go to the US I’m definitely saving this itinerary. It’s really great!!

Awesome and thank you!

We travel full-time as a family and are currently on the East Coast. This is a great list of ideas! There is so much history here!

Awesome! Enjoy the east coast.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

9 Best Places to Retire on the East Coast

Retirees can choose from four seasons or year-round summer on the Atlantic Coast.

Sean Pavone/Getty Images

The East Coast of the U.S. offers a range of places to retire, from the north for those who enjoy the changing seasons to the mid-coastal states for milder weather and then south to Florida where the temperatures are warm year-round.

While each state has its own set of attractions, living near the ocean is a major allure for most who want to spend their golden years on the East Coast. Many retirees also enjoy the history of the towns and cities, some dating to the 1600s.

The cost of living varies with differences in home prices, utilities, and property, sales, and income taxes. Each state designs its own tax structure, including levies on income and inheritance — an important consideration for many retirees. Availability of health care, senior living facilities, activities, entertainment, and transportation also figure into the selection of a retirement destination.

With input from local experts and personal experience, here's a list of the best places to retire on the East Coast.

Port St. Lucie, Florida

RAUL RODRIGUEZ/Getty Images

“Port St. Lucie is proud to be the sixth-largest city in Florida, with nearly 250,000 residents calling our vibrant community home,” Port St. Lucie’s mayor, Shannon Martin, tells Travel + Leisure . “Nestled on the beautiful Treasure Coast, our city serves as the economic heartbeat of the region ... We're consistently ranked among the best places to live in the nation, celebrated for our ethnic diversity, high homeownership rates, and as a top retirement destination,” she adds, also touting the city's low crime rate. “For more than a decade, we’ve ranked as the safest large city in Florida and one of the safest in the nation.”

Located on Florida’s Atlantic coast, about 110 miles north of Miami, Port St. Lucie is home to more than 20 miles of pristine beaches , most with free admission and parking plus convenient amenities. With a free nature and wildlife digital pass, wildlife spotting, hiking trails, and botanical gardens are accessible. Museums, art galleries, workshops, and performances are among the cultural opportunities in the area. A number of senior living developments are available, too, and the average home value, according to Zillow, is $401,544.

Florida has no state income tax , so pensions, IRA and 401(k) income, and Social Security are not taxed, an advantage over most other states. There’s no inheritance or estate tax, and both property and sales taxes are comparable to the national average.

St. Simons, Georgia

gnagel/Getty Images

The largest barrier island in Georgia’s Golden Isles , St. Simons is located on the coast, about 85 miles south of Savannah. “St. Simons Island is a wonderful place to raise a family and retire. We count ourselves blessed to live here,” says Jennifer Klonoski, community relations director at Magnolia Manor , a retirement community.

For Frances Woods, a retiree and Magnolia Manor resident, it's the “beautiful beaches, shops, activities, golf courses, wonderful restaurants, bike trails, great entertainment, and friendly people” that drew her to St. Simons Island. And according to Emilyn Clark, a seven-year Magnolia Manor resident, “Retirement on St. Simons Island is like living in a small neighborhood. All the residents are very friendly."

Niche ranks St. Simons as the second-best place to retire in Georgia. The retiree-friendly state does not tax Social Security. Other types of retirement income (interest, dividends, capital gains, royalties, pensions, and annuities) are taxable, but there’s a deduction of $65,000 per person for residents 65 and older (and a $35,000 per person deduction for those who are 62 to 64).

Georgia has no estate or inheritance taxes, and homeowners ages 62 and older may qualify for homestead exemptions on property taxes for their primary residence. Sales and property tax rates are considered moderate.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

arinahabich/Getty Images

“ Myrtle Beach is more than just a vacation destination; it’s a vibrant place to live with 14 unique communities offering a quality of life that’s hard to beat. With 60 miles of beautiful coastline, a mild climate year-round, and a thriving local economy, it’s no wonder families choose to call Myrtle Beach home,” says Karen Riordan, Visit Myrtle Beach president and CEO.

Here, visitors and locals are treated to world-class golf, plenty of dining and entertainment options, and welcoming Southern hospitality. “Visitors are often so enchanted by Myrtle Beach’s charm that they decide to make this beautiful place their permanent residence,” Riordan adds.

Considered a retirement-friendly state , South Carolina does not tax Social Security . Other types of retirement income are taxable, with a $10,000 deduction, at a marginal state rate of three percent. Property taxes are some of the lowest in the country. South Carolina does not levy estate or inheritance taxes .

Niche notes a median home value of $287,900 in Myrtle Beach. From private homes to high-rise condos, the city offers a range of places to live at a variety of price points.

Carolina Beach, North Carolina

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

“The charm of this coastal community is among the many reasons retirees choose to relocate to Carolina Beach,” says Carolyn Glaser of Intracoastal Realty, who also calls out the destination's near-perfect weather, beautiful beaches, quaint marinas, oceanfront seafood restaurants, and 11-acre freshwater Carolina Beach Lake, which is ideal for fishing. “A nature lover's paradise, Carolina Beach State Park hosts the county's highest elevation hiking trail, as well as a marina and campsites.  Hundreds of resident and migrating bird species make Carolina Beach's Fort Fisher State Recreation Area their home, as do loggerhead turtles that nest on the island annually.”

In other words, you won't have to leave the island to find activities that cater to all interests. Visitors, especially the grandchildren, will find plenty to do, from the Carolina Beach Pier to the North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher to the world-famous Britt's Donuts Shop.

“Low property and sales taxes, as well as a growing but affordable housing market, make Carolina Beach a desirable and prudent destination for retirees,” Glaser says. A relatively tax-friendly state for retirees, North Carolina exempts Social Security retirement benefits from income taxes. Other forms of retirement income are taxed at the North Carolina flat rate of 4.75 percent, and the state’s property and sales taxes are both moderate.

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Kyle Little/Getty Images

"Virginia Beach offers retirees coastal tranquility and endless recreational options,” says Nancy Helman, director of Virginia Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau. "The destination’s beautiful beaches, state parks, and biking trails, coupled with its inclusive neighborhoods and thriving arts and culinary scene, set the stage for retirees to enjoy a truly fulfilling and enriching lifestyle."

Virginia Beach’s three-mile boardwalk features a separate bike path, restaurants, shops, and entertainment. There’s also the Sandler Center for the Performing Arts , a local theater, and art galleries.

While Social Security income is not taxed in Virginia, other types of retirement income, like pensions and IRA and 40l(k) withdrawals, are taxable with a deduction of $12,000 for seniors. Property and sales tax rates in Virginia are low, and most cities and towns offer property tax relief for retirees over the age of 65, with the amount based on income and property value.

According to BestPlaces , the cost of living in Virginia Beach is about five percent higher than the national average. As the site reads, “Homeowners can find various housing options, ranging from single-family homes to luxurious condominiums — while renters also have access to more attractive deals nowadays.”

Surf City, New Jersey

Joel Villanueva/Getty Images

Located on Long Beach Island, Surf City is a town with year-round and summer-only residents. Marcus Pinto , a full-time resident, realtor, and principal with Compass, commented on the area’s sense of community and thriving art, culture, and restaurant scenes: “Surf City is a super-walkable town. You’re one block from the beach and one block from the bay. With residents living here year-round, there are more places to dine, shop, and things to do.”

Pinto predicts Long Beach Island could be the next Blue Zone . “I play pickleball with residents well into their 80s — they're healthy, active, and keeping up with much younger players.” Pinto also points out the island is accessible, just one mile from the New Jersey mainland.

According to Niche , the median home value in Surf City is $884,000. Social Security in New Jersey is not taxed, and state income taxes are low for any retirees with income from retirement accounts and pensions below $75,000 for single filers or $100,000 for joint filers. However, property taxes in New Jersey are some of the highest in the country.

Lewes, Delaware

Located where the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean meet, Lewes is a scenic ferry ride from Cape May , the southernmost point of New Jersey. With a walkable downtown, a summer farmers market, restaurants, boutiques, and antique shops, Lewes is a welcoming community with a population just over 3,000 and a median home value of $676,000 according to HomeSnacks .

T+L spoke to Grace Hoinowski of home building company Schell Brothers , who mentioned Delaware’s tax advantages and overall low cost of living have been attracting new residents, including remote workers and retirees. “The area was once seasonal, but over the past 10 years, more visitors have become full-time residents. The growing neighborhoods mean more services, amenities, restaurants, medical specialists, and improved infrastructure,” Hoinowski notes. She also points out the area’s Native American history, walkable downtown, proximity to the beach, and vintage Victorian homes.

Delaware is a tax-friendly state for retirees. It's one of just four with no state or local sales tax, and it has some of the country’s lowest property tax rates. In addition, seniors over the age of 65 may qualify for some property tax relief, depending on their income and the value of their property. There’s no estate or inheritance tax, and Delaware does not tax Social Security benefits. Income from pensions, IRAs, and 401(k)s is partially taxed.

Stony Brook, New York

Yvonne Baur/Getty Images

Located on the north shore of Long Island, along the Long Island Sound, Stony Brook is an appealing town for retirees. In Stony Book’s Village Center, the Long Island Music and Entertainment Hall of Fame celebrates Long Island’s music heritage, and the Stony Brook Grist Mill, dating to the 18th century, recognizes the area’s history. The Long Island Museum features art, history, and displays of early carriage transportation. Stony Brook University is part of the community, a benefit for retirees for health care and cultural opportunities.

Niche states the median home price in Stony Brook as $576,800. The Long Island Sound beaches are beautiful — and yes, stony rather than sandy. A two-hour ride on the Long Island Rail Road takes residents to Penn Station in Manhattan for the theater, restaurants, museums, and other entertainment. An hour’s drive east, the wineries of the North Fork welcome visitors for tastings, and farms provide fresh seasonal produce.

New York does not tax Social Security income , a plus for retirees in the otherwise high tax state. In addition, income from pensions and retirement, while taxable, is exempt for up to $20,000 a year. Property and sales taxes are high in New York, and the state levies a tax on estates.

Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Located on New Hampshire’s coast, Portsmouth offers a historic downtown, beaches, parks, museums, nightlife, and a scenic waterfront. The city, settled in the early 1600s, is listed as a “Distinctive Destination” by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, notable for its “stimulating mix of historic buildings, sidewalk cafes, great restaurants, art galleries, jazz clubs, and distinctive artisans’ boutiques.”

Niche calls the city one of the best places to live in New Hampshire, with a median home value of $594,000.

Local realtor Barbara Dunnington tells T+L that Portsmouth is a lovely city, popular with retirees who enjoy summer concerts, the theater, restaurants, and exploring the area’s history at Strawbery Banke Museum, with guided tours of historic homes.

According to Dunnington, “Portsmouth is a great place to live, but property in the area is expensive, and rents are high.” For retirees who find Portsmouth affordable, the city offers a vibrant, walkable downtown, a lively waterfront, and a variety of cultural opportunities.

While there's no state tax on personal income from salaries, Social Security, pensions, or retirement accounts, New Hampshire does have some of the highest property taxes in the U.S., according to SmartAsset . There's a five percent tax on interest and dividends greater than $2,400 ($4,800 for joint filers), but this is being phased out by January 2027, with declining rates until then. New Hampshire also has no sales, estate, or inheritance taxes.

Related Articles