east coast road trip from florida

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FLORIDA EAST COAST ROAD TRIP: 25 BEST STOPS

The Florida East Coast road trip is one of the most scenic drives you may ever take. You can start your drive from the southern part of Florida, for instance from Miami going up towards Fort Lauderdale, Daytona Beach, and Jupiter, finishing right at the top, in Jacksonville.

MIAMI BEACH

A stop in Miami is never a quick stop. There is so much to see—the beaches in the city of Miami Beach, Lincoln Road Mall, as well as a lot of attractions in The City of Miami (mainland Miami) especially colorful walls filled with graffiti. Almost every beach in Miami Beach has white sand and clear water—but not every beach is grand. A few popular and recommended beaches are South Beach, and Matheson Hammock Park & Marina—South Beach is the most sought after neighborhood because of its  beach, nightlife, and restaurants with celebrity chefs.

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Hallandale beach oceanfront.

Surrounded by luxurious condos and hotels, as well as lifeguard towers in beautiful colors, Hallandale Beach Oceanfront looks like a postcard picture. There are paid garages but street parking is not available. The beach is wheelchair accessible and open to the public.

FORT LAUDERDALE

Fort Lauderdale is known as the Venice of America—the boats and yachts parked in the waterways and in front of big mansions are beyond breathtaking. Similarly, the beautiful white sand beaches with blue water are a magnet to this city. There are so many things to do in Fort Lauderdale , you might need to spend a full day or two to properly enjoy your Florida East Coast adventure.

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Lauderdale by the sea.

Lauderdale by the Sea is a town that sits between Pompano Beach and Fort Lauderdale. The beaches are very beautiful, and the cafés and restaurants are bonused with live music and gourmet lobsters. Diving is the main reason why people go to Lauderdale by the Sea. Others will go there to snorkel as there are so many different and colorful species of tropical fish—if you get lucky you see a turtle.

POMPANO BEACH

Pompano Beach will remind you of a blockbuster movie full of big boats and yachts. “The heart of the Gold Coast”, so they say. Everybody knows that you go to Pompano Beach for the fine dining, the scuba diving, the snorkeling, and the shopping—all make what Pompano Beach is now. The beauty of the fishing pier attracts people to Pompano Beach.

LIGHTHOUSE POINT

The city of Lighthouse Point also sits on the Florida East Coast. The main attraction here is the Hillsboro Inlet lighthouse which stands near Hillsboro Beach.

DEERFIELD BEACH

This, not overcrowded beach, is also found on Florida East Coast. People go to Deerfield beach when they want very clean water and a clear beach with not many people. There are plenty of places to dine, shop, fish, surf, wakeboard, cable ski, and skate. Quiet Waters Park is known for skating.

The city of Boca Raton is known for its beautiful parks, beaches, and big golf courses. Be sure to go to Red Reef Park and see the beautiful butterfly garden, turtle sanctuary, as well as take a walk following the trails— all these are right in the Gumbo Limbo Nature Center. You are fine to museums downtown Boca Raton. Make sure you spare some time to visit the Spanish River Park and enjoy the breeze.

DELRAY BEACH

At Delray Beach, you will have the pleasure of not only basking in the sun at one of Florida’s most beautiful beaches but also be introduced to the world of art. Here at Delray Beach—especially in Pineapple Grove Arts District—there are many galleries showcasing art pieces from different artists. The food in the restaurants will not disappoint. USA Today name Delray Beach as the most fun small town in America.

WEST PALM BEACH

West Palm Beach is a city on Florida East Coast that neighbors Palm Beach. Lake Worth Lagoon separates West Palm Beach from Palm Beach. Palm Beach Waterfront Activity Station is where you find boats and other essentials for water activities. For food, you can stroll through the seafood restaurants on the waterfront or go to downtown restaurants and bars.

> More on West Palm Beach 

Palm Beach is a town on Florida East Coast known for its palm-lined boulevards and beautiful blue watered beaches—the famous and most celebrated ones being Palm Beach Municipal Beach and R.G. Kreusler Park. Shopping places and restaurants are trendy and chic while the waterfront is decorated with big beautiful mansions. As you go further north, Juno Beach Park and Pier are nice beaches.

JUPITER ISLAND

Jupiter Island is known for having some of the wealthiest people in America. It is part of Port Saint Lucie and people go there mainly for two attractions—Hobe Sound Beach, Jonathan Dickinson State Park, and Nature Conservancy Blowing Rocks.

The city of Stuart is another place that you want to make a stop at. Here you will find Sailfish Splash Waterpark, House of Refuge at Gilbert’s Bar (showcasing shipwrecked sailors), as well as Stuart Heritage Museum. Go to Seabranch Preserve State Park for a butterfly garden and walking trails. If you want to swim and fish, head over to Bathtub Reef Beach.

HUTCHINSON ISLAND

Known for its beautiful beaches, nature preserves, and parks, Hutchinson Island deserves a visit. The island consists of two islands that are separated by the Fort Pierce Inlet—North Hutchinson Island and South Hutchinson Island.

FORT PIERCE

Fort Pierce is known for its beautiful beach found in Fort Pierce Inlet State State Park, where people go to swim and to surf. There is also a national Navy Seal Museum that exhibits artifacts, weapons, and vehicles that the Navy used in the past. Another popular place is the art museum, The A.E. Backus Museum & Gallery. When you feel like just relaxing and want to stroll, head over to Heathcote Botanical Gardens.

Another gem in Florida, Vero Beach highlights the importance of nature and wildlife. It is a perfect place for a sun and sand holiday. After relaxing and sunbathing, you can explore and indulge in nature. Hiking and biking trails are visible. For food and shopping, head over to their Main Street.  

Grab something to eat at the colorful Mulligan’s Beach House in Sebastian. The Caribbean inspired dishes, especially seafood, will make your mouth melt. Opening hours are 8 am to 12 am, Friday and Saturday, and 8 am to 10 pm all other days. It is located at 806 Indian River Drive, Sebastian.

Palm Bay is a city that sits right along the Indian River. The main attractions here are Andretti Thrill Park and Indian River.

There is not much to see in Melbourne, apart from its lovely colorful downtown with authentic restaurants serving seafood. As you go up towards Palm Bay you will see a lovely array of mansions with beautiful boats and yachts parked on the docks.

COCOA BEACH

Known for its surfing hotspots because of the big waves,  Cocoa Beach is basically a surfer’s paradise. Surfing shops provide both die hard and last minute visitors with gear to use. Even if you just want to lay on the beach and enjoy the sun, you will not feel like you don’t belong—all sorts of people with different interests go to Cocoa Beach. Lori Wilson Park and Canaveral National Seashore are some of the highlights.

LIGHTHOUSE POINT PARK

Lighthouse Point Park in Ponce Inlet is another popular spot. The lighthouse has an Observation tower which will give you access to magnificent views. Also, enjoy walking trails if you like exploring and keeping fit.

DAYTONA BEACH

When you visit Daytona Beach, you will find beaches where you can drive your car and ride your bicycle on the sand. Surfing, swimming, and board walking—all can be experienced at Daytona.

FLAGLER BEACH

If you want to fish and surf, Flagler Beach and Pier are perfect spots. This little city comes alive because of the colorful buildings, surfers, and early risers fishing on the pier. Gamble Rogers Memorial State Recreation Area is a marine protected area at Flagler Beach. Here you can enjoy the beach and other activities such as kayaking and fishing.

ST. AUGUSTINE

St. Augustine Beach, especially where St. Johns County Ocean Pier is located, is where you would want to start from. The lighthouse and beautifully painted buildings add to the ambient scenery that people who are getting married seek after. History and culture prevail in St. Augustine—St. George Street might offer good insights. Then head over to Guana Tolomato Matanzas National Estuarine Research Reserve for beach time. Crescent Beach and Anastasia State Park are equally beautiful.

JACKSONVILLE BEACH

Right at the top of Florida East Coast, you will find Jacksonville City. There is not much to do here—if you compared it to Miami Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and other lively cities on the east coast. Jacksonville Beach and St. Johns River are a few attractions that are highlighted. If you have time, you can go to the nearby Amelia Island—here you can visit the pirate-themed Fernandina Beach.

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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!

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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 😉

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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.

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The Ultimate East Coast Road Trip Guide

This article is brought to you by The Dyrt Pro , your go to resource for downloading maps and campgrounds for when you’re exploring off the grid.

Hit I-95 this summer and explore some of the spectacular natural and historical attractions that the East Coast has to offer. We have rounded up the best attractions, highlights, and campgrounds from Maine to Florida to get the most out of your East Coast road trip.

No camping road trip to Maine is complete without a stay at Acadia National Park . Home to some of the most stunning granite cliffs, lush forest hiking trails and tranquil New England beaches in the country. There are plenty of campgrounds to choose from across the 47,000-acre recreation area.

The Blackwoods Campground down at Otter Creek is a short drive from charming Bar Harbor, which offers historical walking tours and cruises. The campground is shadowed by Cadillac Mountain, which you can climb for an unforgettable panoramic view of the bay.

Although smaller than some of the other vibrant cities in Maine, Portland’s buzzing arts, music, and food scene make it a must-see stop on your East Coast road trip. Spend the day whale watching, walking or biking the Portland Trails, and enjoying mouth-watering lobster rolls.

Park your RV or pitch your tent at any of the well-equipped scenic campgrounds in the Portland area, including Bailey’s Camping Resort right on the coast and only 20 minutes from downtown Portland.

Massachusetts

It wouldn’t be a historic East Coast road trip without a stop at the birthplace of America — Boston. Remnants of the American Revolution can be felt in every corner of the city. Walk the Freedom Trail to experience 16 of the most significant historic sites across the city. Then, catch a ball game at Fenway Park, the oldest ballpark in the US, and chow down on a famous Fenway Frank.

If you love football, swing by Foxboro to check out Gillette Stadium, home of the New England Patriots. Explore the shops and restaurants in the outdoor mall and visit the Patriots Hall of Fame. Patriot Place also features a host of concerts throughout the summer and fall, so you can even coincide your trip with Country Fest at the end of August.

From 495 in Foxboro, continue down to Cape Cod. Cape Cod boasts some of the most immaculate beaches in the country. There’s warm water for swimming at Nantucket Sound and sky-high sand dunes on the Outer Cape.

There are plenty of things to do in Cape Cod, including a visit to the Kennedy Museum in Hyannis or the Pilgrim’s Monument in Provincetown. You can also make a quick detour on your I-95 road trip and take the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket Island to enjoy the coastal scenery.

Camp in luxury at the Cape Cod Campresort & Cabins . The site boasts three pools and a jacuzzi, as well as private access to a lake for boating and fishing.

Keep following I-95, and it will take you straight to Baltimore, Maryland’s largest city. The bustling metropolis has a plethora of attractions to visit, including Fort McHenry, the birthplace of the National Anthem, the National Aquarium, and the Civil War-era ship, the USS Constellation.

Stay at the Hilton-Patapsco Valley State Park , which offers ample tent and RV sites, as well as rustic cabins, and features plenty of family-friendly hiking trails.

Sitting halfway between Chincoteague Island, Virginia, and Ocean City, Maryland, Assateague Island National Seashore is a hidden gem along the East Coast. Take a wildlife tour and watch as 300 wild horses wander the salt marshes, dunes, and inland pine forests. Enjoy kayaking along the serene waterways and birdwatch for peregrine falcons, sandpipers, and other birdlife that populate the animal refuge.

South Carolina

As you head into South Carolina, make a stop at Congaree National Park to see the largest and most well-preserved bottomland hardwood forest on the continent. Canoe along the pristine waterways and take in the abundant wildlife. There are two designated tent-only campgrounds at the park, as well as ample backcountry camping opportunities if you prefer to get off the beaten track.

Take a detour from the I-95 and head over to Charleston to be transported back to a time of horse-drawn carriages and cobblestone streets. Don’t miss the Confederate Museum and Waterfront Park in the French Quarter, or the Battery promenade.

While you can’t camp in the center of historic Charleston, the campground at James Island County Park , located just outside of downtown Charleston, features 159 sites ranging from 20/30/50 amp hook-ups to primitive campsites.

Continue exploring the East Coast’s rich history with a visit to historic Savannah. Take in the best of Savannah’s stunning antebellum architecture and pristine landscaped parks with a trolley tour. Go on a ghost tour of Mercer Williams House Museum and explore the famous Bonaventure Cemetery in one of the most haunted cities in America. You can even take a walking haunted pub crawl since it is legal to bring your drink along with you in historic Downtown Savannah.

A short distance from Savannah’s historic district, you’ll find Red Gate Campground & RV Resort . This is a well-appointed, relaxing campground with plenty of scenic walking trails, fishing areas, and an outdoor pool to help you beat the humid Georgia weather.

If you don’t want to wander too far off I-95 to , you can still take in Georgia’s natural beauty with a stop at Jekyll Island. The island is brimming with historical landmarks and interactive natural wonders.

Visit the Georgia Sea Turtle center to get up-close with some of the world’s oldest marine animals or take a guided tour of the Landmark Historic District. There are four campgrounds to choose from on the island, but the most popular is the Jekyll Island Campground with grounds densely populated by grand oaks draped in Spanish moss, and just a short walk from both Driftwood Beach and Clam Creek.

Cap off your historical road trip with a visit to the oldest town in the United States, St. Augustine. Colonized originally by the Spanish, St. Augustine, boasts remarkable colonial architecture and a wealth of historical sites to visit.

Take a tour of the Castillo de San Marcos or tour the Lightner Museum and the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Swing by the Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! to view some interesting oddities.

Check out where spring break happens in Daytona Beach, and enjoy the beautiful warm waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Dip your feet in the sand and head to a beach restaurant or tiki bar to watch the sunset while enjoying the local cuisine.

While I-95 technically terminates in Miami, the Overseas Highway is a scenic 110-mile drive that takes you from Miami to The Keys. The highway spans the vibrant living Florida coral reefs with breathtaking views as far as the eye can see. Choose from any of the islands in the Keys. Stay at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, just 18 miles from Miami, or enjoy the laid-back vibe of Islamorada, a prime fishing spot.

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Bart Branson

When Bart's not writing about the outdoors, he loves to get out there himself, whether that's angling on a river, or sitting around a campfire with his family.

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Road Trip Itinerary For Florida’s East Coast

Table of Contents

Last Updated on July 15, 2024 by Jackie

The open road has always called to me, with its endless stretch ahead, the promise of new discoveries, and the freedom to explore at my own pace. Last summer, I finally answered that call with Florida’s East Coast road trip. With its stunning beaches, charming towns, and diverse attractions, this region provided the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re cruising through charming towns or stumbling upon hidden gems, a road trip offers the freedom to explore like no other.

In this blog, I’ll take you along on my road trip adventure along Florida’s East Coast, sharing all the incredible sights and experiences I encountered as well as things to do on the East Coast. From the enchanting Amelia Island to the vibrant Key West, I’ll provide a detailed itinerary filled with stunning beaches, charming towns, and diverse attractions. Join me as I recount the highlights and hidden gems that made this journey truly unforgettable.

I’ve also included Google Maps to help you navigate your own road trip adventure. Whether you follow our entire itinerary or select a few stops that pique your interest, make sure to savor every moment of the journey. Get ready to hit the road and experience the magic of this scenic coastline!

Florida’s East Coast

The  United States  is home to some of the most incredible roads, each offering its own unique treasures. From  California’s stunning Pacific Coast  to the iconic  Jersey Shore  and  Utah’s awe-inspiring National Parks , there’s no shortage of beauty to behold. And let’s not forget Florida, where Michael and I call home. We’ve had the pleasure of exploring the Sunshine State’s east coast, including the picturesque  Florida Keys .

In this post, we’re starting our journey in north  Florida  at the enchanting Amelia Island and making our way south along the east coast, all the way down to the vibrant  Key West !

Road Trip Itinerary: Florida East Coast

MAP #1:   Map for Road Trip from Amelia Island to Stuart, Florida

Amelia Island

Sunshine, salty air, and a timeless charm – that’s what greeted me on Amelia Island, Florida’s northern gem. Just a hop, skip, and jump (or about 40 minutes) north of bustling Jacksonville, this barrier island is a true hidden treasure. Forget the postcard beaches of your imagination – Amelia Island offers the real deal. Pristine sands stretch endlessly, the turquoise water shimmering like a million jewels. But beyond the beach bliss, Amelia Island unveils its hidden layers.

Feel like stepping back in time? Explore historic forts that will transport you to another era. Fancy a round of golf? Take on challenging courses that will test your skills. Craving a connection with nature? Hike through lush maritime forests or kayak through hidden coves teeming with life. And for those seeking ultimate relaxation, Amelia Island boasts world-class spas – the perfect escape to unwind and indulge.

See my  Travel Guide for Amelia Island  for more details.

Amelia Island beaches

St. Augustine

Get ready to step back in time because our next stop is none other than the oldest city in the United States – St. Augustine! Just a 45-minute drive south of Jacksonville (or an hour north of Daytona for those coming from that direction!) this sun-drenched gem transports you right back in time.

Sure, the beaches here are postcard-perfect, begging you to sink your toes in the warm sand. But St. Augustine’s true magic lies in its cobblestone streets and iconic Spanish colonial architecture. Imagine yourself climbing the Castillo de San Marcos, a mighty 17th-century fort with unbeatable ocean views. Feeling peckish after your historical adventures? Fresh, local seafood is a must-try in St. Augustine – prepare for a taste explosion!

Don’t forget to check out my separate post for  free and inexpensive things to do in St. Augustine .

Flagler Beach

Just a bit further south from St. Augustine lies one of my absolute favorite spots on Florida’s east coast – Flagler Beach. As you cross the bridge into town, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a time machine. Say goodbye to towering resorts blocking your view and hello to quaint homes and a vibe that’s as laid-back as can be.

Flagler Beach is all about unwinding. Whether you’re teeing off on a scenic golf course or casting your line off the pier, pure bliss awaits. End your day with a breathtaking sunset and a local craft beer at a beachfront bar – the perfect Flagler Beach memory.

For an in-depth look at the tranquility Flagler Beach offers, check out my detailed post on  Flagler Beach .

New Smyrna Beach

Heading further south, one of the most stunning Florida East Coast attractions awaits, i.e., the New Smyrna Beach. This town is the epitome of “Old Florida” charm, a laid-back haven where worries melt away faster than your ice cream cone on a hot summer day. Prepare to be dazzled by the sky here – New Smyrna Beach boasts some of the most breathtaking sunrises that paint the horizon in fiery hues and sunsets that bathe the ocean in a magical golden glow.

But New Smyrna Beach isn’t just about chilling. Adventure seekers can have a thrilling encounter with playful dolphins on a boat tour, catch epic waves known to surfers worldwide, or set sail on a chartered fishing trip hoping to reel in a trophy fish. Of course, if you prefer to take it easy, you can cast a line from the shore for a more relaxed fishing experience or simply grab a beach chair and soak up the sun on pristine white sands.

Now, here’s a little heads-up about New Smyrna Beach – it’s known as the shark capital of the world! But don’t let that scare you away! Shark encounters are extremely rare, and the town takes safety very seriously. Just be aware of your surroundings, especially while swimming at dawn or dusk, and follow local beach advisories.

New Smyrna Beach offers more than just stunning scenery and exciting activities. Be sure to explore its quirky charm! Wander through Flagler Avenue, the heart of the town, lined with eclectic shops, vibrant art galleries, and delicious local restaurants serving the freshest seafood platters. In the evening, catch live music spilling out from cozy beach bars, the perfect way to end a perfect day in this surfer’s paradise.

For more details, check out my  Visitor’s Guide for New Smyrna Beach .

Cape Canaveral/Kennedy Space Center

Heading down Florida’s east coast, about an hour east of Orlando, you’ll find Cape Canaveral, also known as the Space Coast. This area is famous for being home to the Kennedy Space Center, where you can get a taste of what it’s like to be an astronaut and explore the wonders of space.

At the Kennedy Space Center, the list of things to do and explore is endless. Imagine yourself walking among giants in the Rocket Garden, towering rockets that have carried astronauts on incredible journeys. Explore the Astronaut Hall of Fame and be inspired by the heroes who dared to push the boundaries.

Want to see where history was made? Head to Mission Control, the nerve center for countless space missions. Experience the G-forces astronauts endure with a ride on a thrilling simulator. And for an immersive experience, catch a breathtaking documentary on the wonders of space in the IMAX theater.

Michael and our grandson, Giancarlo, even had the incredible opportunity to witness a shuttle launch –  check out their video of the launch !

The Kennedy Space Center is a full-day adventure packed with wonder. Plan accordingly to ensure you don’t miss a thing! Find out more about visiting the  Kennedy Space Center  and consider saving time and money with a  guided tour .

Sebastian Inlet

Just an hour’s drive south of Cape Canaveral, you’ll find the stunning, untouched beauty of  Sebastian Inlet State Park . This hidden gem is surrounded by water on three sides – the Indian River Lagoon, the Inlet, and the Atlantic Ocean – making it a paradise for water lovers.

Calling all surfers! Catch epic waves at Sebastian Inlet, renowned for its challenging breaks. Fishing fanatics can cast their lines hoping to reel in a prized Redfish or Snook. But even if you’re not a seasoned angler or surfer, the park offers endless fun. Pack a picnic and witness a heartwarming spectacle – manatees, the gentle giants of the sea gliding serenely, and playful dolphins breaching in the sunshine.

The State Park also offers a clean and well-maintained campground, with some sites right on the waterfront. So, whether you’re planning a day trip or a weekend getaway, Sebastian Inlet State Park has you covered. The best part? Sebastian Inlet State Park welcomes visitors 365 days  a year, so you can experience its magic at any time. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, with admission fees ranging from a mere $2 for pedestrians or cyclists to $8 per vehicle.

If shopping is your cardio, then you shouldn’t miss the  Vero Beach Outlets ! While it may be small, this outlet mall packs a punch with some fantastic stores and the occasional super bargain. Get ready to score deals at Chico’s, Restoration Hardware, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Coach, and many other top brands.

Vero Beach is also the perfect spot for a girls’ spa weekend. The  Costa d’Este  is a beautiful beach resort that offers quality spa treatments, fantastic happy hours, and a soft white sand beach to unwind on.  Check out their spa packages  and get ready to melt away stress in this coastal paradise.

Fort Pierce

Another meaningful thing to do in East Coast Florida is visiting Fort Pierce. It’s the birthplace of the Navy SEALs, the elite special forces unit renowned for their courage and dedication. These warriors put their lives on the line every day, operating in the harshest environments – from dense jungles to icy arctic regions and from treacherous mountains to scorching deserts.

If you want to pay tribute to these real-life heroes, make sure to include a visit to the  National Navy SEAL Museum  on your road trip itinerary. Located at 3300 N. Highway A1A in Fort Pierce, this museum is dedicated to honoring the Navy SEALs, educating visitors through engaging exhibits, and providing support to the families of fallen SEALs.

The museum is open every day except Monday, from 10 am to 4 pm, and from noon to 4 pm on Sundays.  Purchase your tickets in advance  and prepare to be inspired by the incredible stories of these remarkable warriors.

Just an hour south of Vero Beach, unwind in the charming town of Stuart, also known as the “Sailfish Capital of the World.” Step back in time and experience the relaxed pace of Old Florida. This delightful destination offers a bounty of activities for every type of traveler.

A local favorite is the scenic Riverwalk. Stroll along the waterfront path, taking in breathtaking views and the gentle rhythm of the water. Catch a performance at the amphitheater or indulge in a delicious meal at a waterfront restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while basking in the Florida sunshine.

For more inspiration, check out my dedicated post on the best things to do in Stuart .

MAP #2:   Map for Road Trip from Stuart to Key Largo, Florida

Northern Palm Beach County Road Trip

Imagine a place where pristine beaches meet vibrant towns, each with its own story to tell. Welcome to Palm Beach County, a Florida gem waiting to be explored!

I may be a little biased because this is my home, but no Florida road trip is complete without a stop in stunning Palm Beach County! Divided into three distinct sections – North, Central, and South – each part of the county has its own unique charm. But some might say the crown jewel lies in the north.

Northern Palm Beach County unfolds like a dream vacation. Think charming towns like Tequesta, Jupiter, Juno Beach, North Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, and Riviera Beach, each with a unique personality. Imagine strolling along scenic waterfronts, indulging in delicious meals with breathtaking views, and discovering a plethora of activities to suit your interests.

To truly experience Northern Palm Beach County, you’ll want to spend at least 3-4 days exploring all it has to offer. Check out my post on things to do in  Northern Palm Beach County  for some inspiration, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in this beautiful part of Florida!

Central Palm Beach County Road Trip

The central part of Palm Beach County is a hub of excitement, featuring the vibrant towns of West Palm Beach, Palm Beach, Wellington, and Okeechobee. Dive into the rich artistic tapestry of Central Palm Beach County. Explore art galleries brimming with treasures, or stroll through antique shops brimming with unique finds. As the sun sets, the energy in Clematis by Night ignites. This lively district transforms into a vibrant hub, buzzing with trendy bars, delicious restaurants, and live music spilling out onto the streets. Or mingle with the rich and famous on Palm Beach, witness thrilling polo matches, and enjoy some fantastic fishing on Lake Okeechobee.

To fully enjoy all that central Palm Beach County has to offer, plan on spending another 3-4 days exploring this dynamic region. Check out my post on things to do in  Central Palm Beach County  for more details.

Southern Palm Beach County Road Trip

While I’ve spent less time in the southern part of Palm Beach County, its charm is not in short supply here! This region is home to the towns of Lake Worth, Boynton Beach, Delray Beach, and Boca Raton, each offering its own unique attractions.

In Boca Raton, you’ll find the upscale shopping and dining destination of Mizner Park, where you can indulge in some retail therapy and savor delicious meals. Delray Beach boasts historic Japanese Gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll and some serene moments. In Boynton Beach, waterfront restaurants offer delightful dining experiences with stunning views. And in Lake Worth, you can unwind on beautiful beaches and soak up the Florida sun.

Ready to explore further? Check out my post on  things to do in Southern Palm Beach County .

Fort Lauderdale

Escape to Fort Lauderdale, a vibrant city 25 miles north of Miami, where stunning beaches meet a surprisingly rich cultural scene. This Floridian gem offers something for everyone:

• Beach Bliss: Sink your toes into the soft sand of Fort Lauderdale’s famed beaches. Imagine turquoise waters lapping at the shore, the gentle Florida breeze, and sunshine warming your skin. Pure paradise awaits!
• Beyond the Beach: Fort Lauderdale isn’t just about sun and sand. Venture beyond the coastline and discover a city brimming with cultural treasures. The lively Strip, along Highway A1A, is a feast for the senses. Savour delicious meals at oceanfront restaurants, indulge in retail therapy at upscale boutiques or pamper yourself at a luxurious hotel.
• A Feast for the Arts: Immerse yourself in Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant art scene. Explore the NSU Art Museum for a dose of contemporary masterpieces, or step back in time at the Bonnet House Museum and get a glimpse into early 20th-century Florida life.
• Lively Entertainment: The city comes alive with a variety of performances and festivals. Catch a captivating concert or a thrilling play, or immerse yourself in the vibrant Las Olas Art Fair, showcasing local and international artistic talent.

Want to dive deeper into all that Fort Lauderdale offers? Check out my dedicated post on  things to do in Fort Lauderdale .  

Ah, Miami – the city where I spent the first 10 years of my life, back when it was a bit less hectic. While much has changed since then, Miami remains a fantastic place to visit. The diversity and vibrancy of this city make it an unparalleled destination. From its stunning beaches to its incredible culinary scene, from its rich Cuban heritage to its pulsating nightlife, Miami offers an experience like no other. Whether you’re craving a day of sun-soaked relaxation, eager to savor mouthwatering cuisine, fascinated by the city’s cultural tapestry, or ready to dance the night away, Miami has it all. Check out my separate post for more details on ways to spend time in Miami,  Florida.

Road Trip in The Florida Keys

Ahhh… we’ve finally arrived in the Florida Keys! The moment your tires hit the long causeway stretching out towards turquoise waters, a wave of relaxation washes over you. Palm trees sway in the ocean breeze, and the salty air fills your lungs. Sunshine shimmers on the water, beckoning you to slow down, embrace the laid-back island vibe, and truly unwind in this sun-drenched paradise.

Check out my separate posts for detailed guides on taking an epic road trip through this tropical paradise!

• Best Itinerary for a Road Trip Through the Florida Keys Road Trip
• Things to do in Grassy Key
• 15 Things to Do in Islamorada
• Some of the Best Things to Do in Key West Are Free

Finding and Booking Accommodations While on a Florida East Coast Road Trip

No trip is complete without a comfortable and budget-friendly place to rest your head. We know how important lodging is, so we want to share our favorite resource – Booking.com .

They consistently offer some of the best deals on hotels, charming B&Bs, and vacation rentals, making it easy to find the perfect fit for your needs and budget. Read more about  finding and booking accommodations .

As the sun sets on your adventure, you’ll carry a treasure trove of memories. The Florida East Coast road trip isn’t just about what you see, it’s about how it makes you feel.

So, are you ready to write your own story on the East Coast? Fuel up your car, pack your bags with a sense of adventure, and hit the road! This incredible coastline, brimming with things to do, awaits. From iconic attractions to hidden gems, the Florida East Coast promises an unforgettable adventure. Let the road trip begin!

Although I receive a small commission from my affiliates, such as Viator and Booking.com, there is no extra cost to you.

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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 .

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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.

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Publish Date: November 19, 2023

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Tranquility happens with palm trees, blue water, white sands, scenic coastal towns, and fun attractions along the way.

A road trip is the best way to see the eastern side of the Sunshine State.  Explore the Sunshine State of Florida, use this post as inspiration to discover the top E ast Coast Florida vacation spots .

Be ready to see top tourist destinations, Florida East Coast cities, go off the beaten path, and find the best places to stop on an East Coast Florida road trip – today – tomorrow – or next weekend.

This is a sample road trip itinerary with multiple stops allowing you to customize the journey.

• FirstHeading

1. Amelia Island - Fernandina Beach, Florida:

2. talbot island florida state park:, little talbot island, big talbot island state park, 3. huguenot drive on beach jacksonville, fl:, getting to huguenot beach, 4. ride the mayport ferry:, 5. explore - shop - dine atlantic beach town center & neptune beach:, 6. best place to spend the night in northeastern florida - jacksonville beach:, our top places to stay on a jax beach vacation:, 7. scenic ride a1a from ponte verde to st. augustine, florida:, 8. st. augustine, st johns county:, 9. daytona beach, florida, finding the daytona national speedway:, travel tip:, 10. sight-see space coast -cocoa beach & the famous cocoa beach pier, 11. the city of melbourne offers an old florida town feel:, 12. top attraction downtown vero beach, florida, 13. outdoor enthusiasts will want to stop at jupiter beach, florida, jupiter, florida lighthouse address:, 14. luxury resort town in southeast florida - boca raton:, 15. deep-sea fishing excursive - deerfield beach boward county, florida:, 16. destination a1a fort lauderdale, florida sun & fun:, fun attractions in fort lauderdale - today - tomorrow - weekend getaway, 17. gaming in hollywood florida: eastern florida road trip | top places to stop:, 18. miami, fl, usa - final stop on the eastern florida road trip | top places to stop:, 7-day florida road trip from amelia island to the keys:, day 1: amelia island, day 2: st. augustine, day 3: daytona beach, day 4: cocoa beach, day 5: fort lauderdale, day 6: miami, for those ready to continue driving past miami, let's go from miami to key west.

The first stop on the Florida A1A (Atlantic Avenue) road trip is touristy downtown Amelia Island, FL. This top tourist town is filled with cute shops, and wonderful restaurants, in a historic coastal setting.

Visitors stroll Amelia Island downtown, spend the day playing on the water, or visit top-rated Ferdinando Beach. These historic Sunshine State streets are packed with tourists during peak season.

If you are looking for travel less crowded, highly recommend a stay at one of Amelia Island’s exclusive high-end resorts. History seekers will enjoy an afternoon adventure to Fort Clinch State Park.

Booking ONLINE Accommodations:

Next stop – The peaceful, unspoiled beaches of Talbot Island State Park. Camping, fishing, biking, sunbathing, ocean wading, and biking are all popular Talbot Park activities. An inexpensive entrance fee is required, but well worth the visit.

Address: 12157 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226 

Address: A1A North, Jacksonville, FL 32226

Tourists get to hop off Heckscher Drive and drive directly onto Huguenot Beach. This is the only 4×4 drive-able white beach sand in the city of Jacksonville, Florida. Locals love the coastline and white sands of Huguenot.

Huguenot Beach is one of the best places to stop on a Florida East Coast road trip and is a hidden gem.

Address: 10980 Heckscher Dr, Jacksonville, FL 32226 IMPORTANT – two parks with similar names exist. Ensure you GPS the beach on Heckscher!

Experience the Mayport Ferry as it transports both passengers and cars over the St. Johns River. The ferry at Mayport is a shortcut that connects Mayport to areas close to Florida’s Atlantic and Jax shorelines. 

Address: 4780 Ocean St, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233  Cost: Car Weekday $7 Car Weekend $8.

Looking for a fun place to stop off Atlantic Avenue? Visit the cute town center between Neptune and Atlantic beaches.

This small-town beach community offers top dining, fun beach bars, and locally-owned shops.

When deciding where to stay off A1A Atlantic Avenue in Northeastern Florida – chose Jacksonville Beach. Jax Beach, Duvall County offers great nightlife, wide-open beaches, great beach hotels, resorts, and incredible fun.

Steve and I enjoy the Hampton Inn Oceanfront property, for ocean views, a tiki bar, and a resort-style pool.

Jax Beach as referred to by locals, has great beachfront accommodations.  A few I can personally recommend are, The Hampton Inn Oceanfront – Margaritaville Resort and SpringHill Suites by Marriott. 

Fall in love with the drive from Jacksonville Beach to St. Augustine.

The breathtaking 24-mile stretch of coastal highway A1A winds through beachfront residential areas, vacation rentals, pull-offs to nearby nature areas, and practically deserted beaches. Roll the window down, take in the fresh air, and explore.

Don’t miss pull-offs where wildlife refugees welcome road trippers with a phenomenal natural coastline.

Tourists vacationing in America’s oldest city, St. Augustine, will find amazing attractions and fun activities.

On this leg of the A1A journey, travelers should plan extra time. Saint Augustine offers so many great things to do, and see, and places to stay.

See this link for my review of the St. Francis Inn, St. Augustine, Florida.

Daytona Beach is a grown-up playground, with fantastic nightlife, oceanfront properties, and a carnival-like beach persona. Guests of Daytona have the added attraction of being able to drive on designated areas of the beaches.

Driveable beaches are one of the things that make Daytona famous. Another top attraction in Daytona, Volusia County, US – The Daytona National Speedway. Tours of the most recognizable racetracks in the USA are available daily. This is a Daytona must-visit destination.

1801 W International Speedway Blvd, Daytona Beach, FL 32114

Disney World is one of Florida’s most popular tourist destinations.  Important to note that Walt Disney World is located in Central Florida, not the coast.  Travelers making their final destination in Disney should continue no farther than Daytona Beach along A1A.

Plan an Afternoon stop at Florida’s famous beach pier in Cocoa Beach and the space coast. Cocoa Beach Pier is always a favorite tourist spot. However, the best reason to visit this Brevard County treasure is the lovely beaches and beachside restaurants. A top vacation destination for families with tons of things to do.

Lucky travelers may get the chance to see a SpaceX rocket launch from nearby Cape Canaveral. The best tour in the area will be found at the Kennedy Space Center and is a must-visit for families.

Melbourne is the perfect transition into the Southeastern sector of the Florida Coast. Here the weather starts to heat up, but unlike many other Florida cities, Melbourne is laid back. Life seems to go by a little slower in Melbourne with a tropical drink in hand.

Eastern Florida road trip stop at McKee Botanical Gardens is the best way to spend the day in downtown Vero Beach. Situated on an 18-acre property the Mckee Botanical Gardens is a tropical flower lovers’ paradise.

Besides the beauty of the botanical gardens, Vero Beach -Indian River County, USA offers guests lovely sunny outdoor spaces, shopping, family-owned restaurants, and art galleries.

Paddleboarding, kayaking, wildlife watching, and boating are all favorites when traveling to Jupiter Florida, and Palm Beach County, FL.

For those travelers like myself who prefer dry land, check out the traveler’s favorite Jupiter Inlet Lighthouse & Museum Tour.  

500 Captain Armours Way, Jupiter, FL 33469

Maybe it’s because I’m from New Jersey, but Boca Raton is my top pick for resort destinations in Southern Florida.

Could it be that I noticed so many familiar distinctive Jersey accents?

But let’s talk about Boca Raton Palm Beach County, FL – My top resort town offers upscale amenities, fabulous bars, and a gorgeous beach atmosphere.  Don’t Miss Mizner Park!

Spend an exciting day on the open waters, even if you have zero fishing ability.

Deerfield Beach in Broward County, Florida offers several charter fishing tours. Take a break from the road and get out on the Atlantic Ocean waters.

We used a discount fishing tour company that only costs $99 per person. See the Review!

Fort Lauderdale is famously known for breathtaking beaches, nightlife, bars, dining, outdoor attractions, and a historic riverfront.

Guests of this most popular travel destination will find no shortage of top-rated things to see.

Plan extra time on this eastern Florida road trip because there is no way to pack in all the fun in one day. For this leg of your sunny vacation plan and book activities in advance.

Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

Fort Lauderdale Beaches

Las Olas Boulevard

Visit Lauderdale by the Sea

A recent discovery for Steve and me is The Seminole Hard Rock Casino and Hotel. If you have not heard of this gaming paradise, you can’t miss the guitar-shaped hotel glittering the Hollywood, FL skyline.

For adults looking for an escape from the beaches and some gambling excitement, this stop on the journey is waiting for you.

The final stop on this Eastern Florida road trip ends in magnificent Miami, Florida, Dade County. Miami is the place for luxury, high-class resorts, and decadence. Luxury for the upscale bars, art deco pastel homes, fine dining, and possible celebrity sightings.

Everything about Miami is fabulous, making this final stop before heading down to the Florida Keys perfect.  Most popular attractions in Miami, Florida include South beach, Wynwood Walls, and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

Amelia Island is a beautiful barrier island off the coast of Northeast Florida. Amelia Island is a great place to start your road trip. This island is known for its white-sand beaches, historic districts, and charming shops. Spend your first day exploring the island, whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or biking along the beach. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of Amelia Island’s many fine restaurants.

St. Augustine is the oldest city in the United States. This town is full of history and charm. Be sure to visit the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century Spanish fort. Another popular tourist attraction is the Fountain of Youth. You can also explore St. Augustine’s historic district, with its cobblestone streets and Spanish colonial architecture.

Daytona Beach is known for its world-famous speedway. There is more to this city than just racing. Daytona Beach is also home to beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife scene. Popular tourist attractions include the Museum of Arts and Sciences and the Daytona Beach Pier.

Cocoa Beach is a great place to visit if you’re interested in space exploration. The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is located nearby. You can also go for a swim at the beach or take a boat tour of the Indian River Lagoon.

Fort Lauderdale is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, canals, and nightlife. You can spend your day swimming, sunbathing, or boating in the Intracoastal Waterway. In the evening, enjoy a show at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts or head to one of Fort Lauderdale’s many nightclubs.

Miami is an exciting city with something for everyone. You can visit the beach, explore the Everglades, or shop at one of Miami’s many malls. You can also visit the Pérez Art Museum Miami, the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, or the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens.

Key West is the southernmost point in the continental United States, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy the laid-back Keys lifestyle. Spend your day swimming, sunbathing, or fishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Visit the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum or the Key West Lighthouse.  In the evening book a romantic sunset cruise.

This is just a sample itinerary, and you can customize it to fit your interests and time constraints.

No matter how you choose to spend your time, you’re sure to have a great time on your 7-day Florida road trip from Amelia Island to Miami, with a bonus ride to Key West.

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No high-impact overachieving tourist attractions here, just slow travel and early bedtimes.

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East Coast Road Trip: 25+ Stops You Don’t Want To Miss!

We spent about 4 weeks doing an East Coast Road Trip in the fall and it was magical! Below we share the destinations we stopped at, what we did and how much time we spent to help you plan your East coast trip.

It was a whirlwind trip but so much fun!!

We also included some southern states and stops in case you want your road trip itinerary to take you all the way from Maine down to the Florida .

Here is a summary of the stops we recommend: Stowe, VT | Lincoln, NH | Acadia National Park | Boston, MA | Newport, RI | Mystic, CT | New York City | Cape May, NJ | Philadelphia, PA | Delaware | Washington, DC | Shenandoah NP | Asheville, NC | Charleston, SC | Savannah, GA | St Augustine, FL | Orlando, FL | Florida Keys

Table of Contents

Map Of East Coast Road Trip

The first map shows the first half of the trip.

This map shows the 2nd half of the trip.

Vermont – 2 Nights

Vermont is known for its green mountains, maple syrup, cider, wineries, breweries and gorgeous covered bridges. We tried to cover all of that when we visited!!

Ben and Jerry’s ice cream was also started here – we ran out of time and weren’t able to visit. But this is something else you may want to add to your list.

Burlington, Vermont

This fun college town has the famous Church Street – the street has a church on each end of it. It is exactly what you think a New England town would look like! It also has cool shops, yummy chocolates and a distillery tasting room. Plus a variety of unique shops and high end clothes stores.

Outside of the down is the waterfront with the Maple Creemees stand – you can’t leave without getting one! Plus foam brewers. We love stoping at local breweries.

You can also make a stop at Shelbourne Farm for cheese, syrup and walking trails.

Here is a high-level look of things to do in Burlington Vermont:

Shelbourne Farm 

• Walk trails
• Cheese making at 11am
• Get lunch food

Walk on Church Street 

• Find the Global Pathways Jewelry Store and The Crystal Cottage of Vermont
• Find street art 
• Lake Champlian Chocolates
• Smugglers Notch distillery

Waterfront around sunset 

• Foam Brewers 
• Creemees Ice Cream (Maple Creemees)
• Citizen Cider – Have Poultine for dinner here

More Fun Activities in Burlington

Burlington Scavenger Hunt check out all of Burlington’s landmarks and hidden gems as you answer trivia questions.

Sip for Burlington Brewery Tour Check out Burlington’s world-class brewery scene on this guided tour

For all the details on Burlington, VT check out our post: 15 Fun Things to do in Burlington, VT

Stowe, Vermont

This gorgeous town located at the foot of the highest peek in Vermont: Mount Mansfield is a must do while in Vermont. There are gorgeous hiking trails, picturesque bridges and beautiful scenic drives – especially in fall when the leaves are changing.

You won’t want to miss a stop at Cold Hollow Cider Place for hot cider and cider donuts. Be sure to head over the brewery for some cider beer!

If you like local breweries the Alchemist Stowe is known to have some of the best beers in the whole US. You will also find the Von Trapp place in Stowe. It is busy so if you are interested in visiting be sure to book a reservation ahead of time.

Here is a high-level look of things to do in Stowe, Vermont:

• Smugglers Notch State Park
• Hike the Bingham Falls via Mills Trail
• Walk Stowe’s Main Street
• Auto Toll Road to the top of Mt. Mansfield
• Emily’s Covered Bridge (Gold Brook Bridge)
• Scenic Drive (90 minutes)
• Cold Hollow Cider Place
• The Alchemist Stowe
• Stowe Cider
• Dinner at Von Trapp Place

For more on Stowe, Vermont check out our post: 20 Fun Things To Do in Stowe, Vermont

Where to Stay

We visited the east coast in our RV and choose to stay at a campground where we could visit Stowe and Burlington. There are also a lot of great hotels and vacation rentals in the area.

Apple Island RV Park Where we stayed

Sterling Ridge Resort  is in between Burlington and Stowe and would make a good base.

Green Mountain Inn  is right in Stowe and would be a great place to stay to explore Stowe.

Courtyard Burlington Harbor  is right in Burlington and would be perfect for exploring Burlington.

Vacation Rentals

Close to Stowe and the Mountain

Lake View Close to Burlington

If you are looking for more things to do in Vermont check out our post: 45 Places to Stop on Your Ultimate Vermont Road Trip and 31+ Fun Things To Do In Vermont [2 Day Itinerary included]

New Hampshire – 2 Nights

New Hampshire and Vermont share a lot of similarities on what they are known for. Beautiful landscape, maple syrup, scenic drives, covered bridges.

Lincoln, New Hampshire

When we visited New Hampshire we knew we wanted to do a tram or cog train ride . We opted for the tram as it would take us to the top of Cannon Mountain and one of our kids is named Cannon – it was an easy choice.

I also wanted to do the gorgeous Flume Gorge hike and it did not disappoint. Since we were there in fall we wanted to be sure to do the Kancamagus highway drive to see the changing leaves.

High-Level overview of what we did in New Hampshire:

• Cannon Mountain Tram
• Flume Gorge Hike  
• Grab Purple Tomatoe Sandwiches
• Kancamagus Highway Drive – great for seeing the fall leaves. Here is a list of attractions located off of the highway.
• Mt Washington Auto Road – Highest point in NH

Where To Stay

This is where we stayed: Fransted Family Campground & RV Park

Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain A restaurant on site, outside swimming pool, a hot tub and gorgeous scenery!

InnSeasons Resort Pollard Brook In the White Mountain National Forest but a 5 minute drive to downtown Lincoln! It has an indoor and outdoor pool too.

Luxury Loon Mountain Home

For more on New Hampshire check out our post: 14 Best Things To Do In Lincoln New Hampshire

Maine – 3 Nights

Maine is known for its rugged coast, pristine forests, lobster, outdoor recreation and Acadia National park. For our stop in Maine we just did Acadia National Park but we would love to go back to explore more of Maine. You also don’t want to miss the lobster rolls!

Acadia National Park

Whenever we visit a National Park we like to visit the whole park. Those off the beaten path places that most people don’t go to – along with all of the must see stops.

This meant there were 3 areas of Acadia we would visit – the 4th would have been taking a boat to one of the islands but we opted not to do that this time around. But will the next time we go!

The 3 areas we visited were the Schoodic Peninsula, the Main Loop and the Quiet Side. We also spent time in Bar Harbor eating and exploring the town.

Here is a high-level overview of what we did in Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor:

Schoodic Peninsula – Acadia National Park

• Sundew Trail
• Schoodic Headtrails

Acadia National Park – Main Loop

• Cadillac Mountain Sunrise – need tickets
• Park Loop Road drive stop at lookouts
• Precipice Trail – 2.1 miles 1000 ft elevation gain Crazy Family Adventure Acadia National Park Precipe Trail
• Beehive Trail – 1.5 mile 500 foot elevation gain https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/maine/the-beehive-loop-trail
• Thunder Hole – Ocean Path trail to Thunder Hole (.7 mile there and .7 back)
• Jordan Pond House (Popovers (open 11am-5pm)) and Jordan Pond Path after dinner if we want to. 

Acadia National Park – Quiet Side And Lobster Boat

• Bass Harbor Lighthouse
• Hike Wonderland Trail
• LuLu Lobster Boat Tour

For more on Acadia National Park check out our posts: 17 Fun Things To Do In Acadia National Park and Acadia National Park Itinerary [Plus Where To stay]

Bar Harbor is a super cute town and with its close proximity to Acadia you will definitely want to spend some time here. Here are a few things to do:

Bar Harbor Culinary Walking Tour Taste local foods as you explore Bar Harbor on this 3-hour tour

Historic Guided Walking Tour Learn about the history of this historic town and its historic landmarks on this fun 2 hour tour

For more on Bar Harbor check out our post: 11 Things To Do In Bar Harbor Maine

Campgrounds

We stayed here: Mt Desert RV Park which was in a perfect location to see all parts of the park. Plus it was close to the Happy Clam Shack!

Hadley’s Point Campground This lovely campground offers a quiet escape from city life.

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel in Central Bar Harbor this hotel is located just 1.4 miles from Acadia National Park

Acadia Inn this comfortable hotel has an onsite trail that accesses the park

Vacation Rental

Shannon Cottage in Bar Harbor only a 5 minute walk to the Village Green

Lovely Mayapple Cottage outside of Bar Harbor this is a great option if you are looking for peace and quiet.

Massachusetts – 3 Nights

Craig and I had gotten engaged in Boston back in 2001 and we were excited to get back to visit again! There is so much history in Boston to take in via the Freedom Trail, the historical streets and the restaurants.

We choose to spend 2 full days exploring Boston and crammed in a lot. Here is what we did:

• Freedom Trail – Freedom Trail Walking Tour App
• Book a 2.5 hour guided walking tour of the Freedom Trail here.
• Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum Interactive Tour
• Donut Tour – Book your Underground Donut Tour here!
• Boston National Historic Park
• Little Italy Dinner – make a reservation
• Basketball Game – Celtics Game
• Fenway Park Book a 1 hour guided tour of Fenway Park

More Great Boston Activities

Old Town Tolley Tour  Hop on and off at one of 14 spots on this great tour. These great spots include the Boston Public Garden, the USS Constitution Museum, Quincy Market, and more.

Buy a Go City All Inclusive Pass  This pass includes 40+ attractions including the famous swan boat, Museum of Fine Arts, Boston Children’s Museum, Museum of Science, Franklin Park Zoo, and more.

Boston Duck Tour  See Boston from a different view with this one of a kind kid friendly tour.

For more on Boston and Salem check out: 29+ Fun Things to Do In Boston With Kids

Accommodations in Boston

We left our RV at the Sandy Pond campground in Plymouth and went into Boston and spent the night at a hotel. There are not many options for campgrounds close to Boston. From what we could find.

Omni Parker Hotel Where we stayed

Seaport Hotel Boston  Stay right on Boston’s historic waterfront

Historic Loft Near Boston Common

Townhouse in the Center of Boston

Salem is usually a nice train ride from Boston. Well when we were there they were working on part of the line so we had to take a train and a bus. Plus we went the opening of Halloween weekend. It was an experience! The bus ride was packed full and felt like it took forever but we made it.

There is so much history in Salem as well as long as all the fun that surrounds Halloween there! I am glad we went and experienced Halloween in Salem. That being said I would really like to come back to Salem and explore when it isn’t so packed with people.

Here is what we did in Salem and was recommended to us:

• Walk the Salem Heritage Trail
• Stroll along Chestnut Street (Take the time to wander down beautiful Chestnut Street, which was the first planned street in America. Read all of the house plaques to learn about the people who built and lived in the exquisite Federal-style mansions.)
• Salem has wonderful, historic cemeteries, including the Old Burying Point Cemetery on Charter Street, Howard Street Cemetery and the Broad Street Cemetery.
• The Charter Street Burying Point is one of the oldest cemeteries in Massachusetts. In it you can see the graves of a Witch Trials judge, a Mayflower passenger, and architect Samuel McIntire. 
• Salem Witch Trails Tour Guide App
• Haunted Happenings Marketplace – Salem Commons

More Great Activities in Salem

Ghosts of Salem Walking Tour  This family friendly tour will immerse you in the city’s dark past.

Haunt & History Guided Night Tour  Explore this historic city at night.

For an extra stop check out this awesome Nantucket Itinerary!

If you want to go straight from Boston to NYC check out this great post on how you can do it via the train! Taking the Boston to NYC Train .

Rhode Island – 1 Night

When making a stop in Newport, Rhode Island we knew we wanted to try some Oysters! Being that we were there with the kids we knew they would maybe try an oyster but would not appreciate them or how much they cost. For that reason we got some to go and it worked out great.

Here is a list of things to do in Newport, Rhode Island:

• Newport to Ocean Drive Historic District
• Bowen’s Wharf
• Brenton Point State Park (get a kite)
• Pawtucket – National Park Site
• Providence for lunch
• Snake Den State Park
• West Greenwich
• Mantucket Rhodyoyster farm tour and dinner.

For more on Rhode Island check out: 19 Best Things To Do In Newport RI

We stayed at the Worden Pond Family Campground.

Marshall Slocum Inn this federalist style hotel is conveniently only a 5-minute drive from the Newport Mansions and within walking distance to the Cliff Walk.

Newport Harbor Hotel and Marina Here you can enjoy waterfront views, on-site dining, and an indoor saltwater pool.

Downtown Newport Luxury on Thames

Harbor View Retreat

Connecticut – 1 Night

In Connecticut we wanted to check out a cider mill and the cute small town of Mystic!

Here are a few things to do in Mystic:

• Mystic Seaport Museum
• Olde Mistick Village
• Downtown Mystic
• Clydes Cider Mill

More to do in Mystic

Glow in the Park TreeTrails Burn some energy high in the tree tops. Great for ages 7+

Downtown Mystic Ghost Tour learn about this seafaring town’s dark past on this 2 hour guided tour.

For more on Mystic check out: 21 Best Things To Do In Mystic CT

Sun Outdoors Mystic On-site amenities and activities include basketball, horseshoes, miniature golf, bocce ball, pickleball, volleyball, and a heated swimming pool, among others.

Whaler’s Inn This hotel is within walking distance of shops and restaurants and is around the corner from the Mystic River Bascule Bridge.

Taber Inn Only an 8-minute walk from the beach, and 1 mile from the Mystic Seaport, the Taber Inn has everything you need for a comfortable and relaxing stay.

Overlooking the Mystic River

Seaside Getaway

New York – 3 Nights

New York City

While in NYC we wanted to be sure to hit the historic sites, a broadway play, China Town and also the 9/11 Memorial. NYC is such a cool city with so much to see and do and just an awesome energetic vibe. We were there for 2 1/2 days and went from the minute we got there until we left.

This time we stayed on the New Jersey side and the subway was right down the road from our RV park. We took the ferry one trip and did the subway the rest of the time and it was so easy for getting into the city.

Here is what we did with our 2 1/2 days in NYC:

• Book your tickets for the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island with Ferry Ride
• Statue of Liberty
• Food Tour – do it ourselves of Pizza Places
• Central Park 
• Lego Store 
• Thrift Store  – Thrifty Hog
• Flight Club – shoe store 
• Rutger Park – bball court
• Knicks Basketball Game
• 9/11 Memorial & Museum Timed Entry Ticket
• Little Italy – Walking Tour App
• China Town – Walking Tour App
• Dinner by Broadway at Haru Sushi and dessert at Juniors
• Booked Broadway Play 8pm – The Lion King Get tickets here: The Lion King on Broadway
• Times Square

More to do in NYC

New York CityPass – Save money at 5 tops attractions including the Empire State Building, American Museum of Natural History, Top of the Rock, Guggenheim Museum and more.

Manhattan Helicopter Tour Get a bird’s eye view of the Big Apple

Big Bus Hop On and Off Sightseeing Tour Hop on and off at your leisure at NYC’s most iconic landmarks

Check out our post for more to do in NYC with kids: Visiting New York City With Kids [Itinerary Included]

We would 100% recommend the Liberty Harbor RV park as a great place to stay if you are coming in an RV. It wasn’t cheap at over $100 a night for basically a water and electric parking lot (there was a dump station) but with the location it was perfect for exploring NYC!

It is located in New Jersey but it is just across the water and there is a subway up the road (that you can walk to) that you can take to easily get into New York City.

Hyatt Place NYC Chelsea this great location is walking distance to restaurants, landmarks, and the subway

Hampton Inn Times Square Stay in the heart of Times Square at this amazing hotel.

One Bedroom Apartment with Den in NYC

Cozy Studio Apartment near the Empire State Building

Another great place to visit in New York – that is located on the western side of the state is Ithaca, New York! If you are interested in stopping here check out this great post on things to do in Ithaca .

New Jersey – 1 Night

Ocean City and Cape May

We didn’t spend much time in New Jersey but knew when we were there we wanted to visit one of the boardwalks. Our first stop was the Ocean City boardwalk and since it was off season (Fall) it wasn’t very busy but we still got an idea of what the boardwalk is like!

Exploring the city of Cape May and seeing the beach was fun too. Here is a list of things we recommend you do in New Jersey:

• Barnegat Lighthouse State Park
• Atlantic City (Absecon Light House – Open Thursdays through Mondays
• Lucy The Elephant,
• Historic Smithville
• King King Sundae at the Sugar Factory
• Ocean City – walk the boardwalk and the Atlantic Ocean beach
• Cape May (Ligthhouse, Washington Street Mall, Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum, Cape May Historic District)
• Brew and Surf Trail
• Explore Cape May
• Cold Spring Brewery
• Ghost Tour at Historic Cold Spring Village – booked

More Fun Activities at the Jersey Shore

Jersey Shore Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise learn about marine life and the history of Cape May on this 3 hour cruise

Weekend Dolphin Watching Breakfast Cruise Enjoy breakfast as you watch dolphins on this 2-hour guided tour

We stayed at the Echo Farms campground . It was fine – it was a place to stay. The roads were a bit tight but we made it work.

Biscayne Suites is a hotel located in Ocean City that has all of the amenities that you could ask for. 

Ocean 7 is located on the boardwalk in Ocean City

4 Bedroom/ 4 Bath Beachfront Condo

2 Bedroom/ 3 Bath with Ocean Views

Philadelphia – 2 Nights

We ended up spending one day in Philly. We booked a food tour and didn’t really think about the times that a lot of the historic buildings were open. So we ended up just seeing a lot of them from the outside.

The food tour was well worth it! Just wish we would have planned the timing better.

Here is what we did in Philly:

• Reading Terminal Market – food tour: Book it here: Flavors of Philly Food Tour
• The Liberty Bell
• Independence Hall – you need a ticket ahead of time – we saw it from the outside.
• John F. Kennedy Plaza – Love Sculpture
• Amore Sculpture – Sister Cities Park
• Penn’s Landing on the waterfront

Click here to download a map of historic Philly

Additional Things to do in Philly

Revolutionary Walk Guided Tour Journey through the Old City on this guided tour

Amazing Philadelphia Scavenger Hunt Adventure use your smartphone as a guide and set your own pace. It includes stops at many of the most famous spots in the city, as well as some lesser-known sights

For all the details check out our post: 17+ Fun Things To Do In Philadelphia With Kids [Plus 1 day Itinerary]

We stayed at the same place we stayed when we explore Jersey: Echo Farms campground .

Philadelphia Marriot Downtown A super comfortable hotel right in the heart of downtown Philadelphia, Philadelphia Marriott Downtown is a wonderful place to call home for a few days.

Hilton Garden Inn Philadelphia Center City be within walking distance of several attractions when you stay here.

Historic 3- Story Classic Trinity House

Beautiful 3 Bedroom Apartment in the Heart of Center City

Delaware – 1 Night

We weren’t exactly sure what to do in Delaware but we kept seeing beaches and boardwalks. And also knew we wanted to visit the Assateague National Seashore to try to see the horses (Even though this is actually in Maryland).

• Assateague National Seashore
• Wilmington Scavenger Hunt Visit all the hidden gems and landmarks that Wilmington has to offer while ansering trivia questions.

We stayed at the Jellystone Park in Lewes . It was a really nice park!

Hyatt Place Wilmington Riverfront This modern hotel is located right on the riverfront, in an ideal location for sightseers.

Homewood Suites by Hilton Wilmington Downtown both the Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts and the Brandywine Zoo are within walking distance.

Upscale Vacation Rental Home

Gateway Oasis in Brandywine Valley

Washington DC – 3 Nights

Washington DC

We spent one day exploring Washington DC and the monuments. The next day we returned to do some of the free museums. Check out what we did:

• White House picture from the outside. White House Experience App
• Black Lives Matter Plaza
• The White House Visitor Center
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial
• Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
• Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
• Korean War Veterans Memorial
• Abraham Lincoln Memorial
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• Washington Monument
• Arlington National Cemetery
• Union Station

For all the details check out our post: 23 Things To Do In Washington DC With Kids [+ 2 Day Itinerary]

Great Tours in Washington DC

Hop-On and Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour  See the sites and learn the history of DC from a double-decker bus. This tour visits the White House, Lincoln Memorial, National Cathedral, Arlington National Cemetary, National Capital, and more.

Tastes of Georgetown Food Tour  Learn about the history of DC’s oldest and most iconic neighborhood while sampling delicious local foods.

Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour  Bike through the Tidal Basin and National Mall on this self-guided tour. This three-hour guided tour is perfect for all ages and includes bikes and helmets.

Georgetown Ghost Tour  Discover the dark side of this historic part of the city, including visiting the famous Exorcist stairs featured in the movie during this walking tour.

African American History Tour  On this 4-hour tour, you will see some of the most iconic sites and lesser-known unique landmarks in civil rights history. From the home of Frederick Douglass to African American Civil War Memorial and Museum to Howard University take an in-depth look at the struggle for civil rights.

Washington Plaza Hotel  This hotel is located close to the White House and Dupont Circle. The hotel offers a wide variety of rooms and suite choices.

Courtyard by Marriott Washington Downtown/Convention Center  Stay in the heart of our nation’s capital. This hotel has a restaurant, private parking, free bikes, and a beautiful garden on site.

Private Apartment in a Historic Home  Located in the center of Northwest DC, this home is located within walking distance of the Metro and monuments and museums.

Historic Victorian Townhome  This beautiful three-bedroom townhome is located in one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Walking distance to restaurants, bars, and the National Mall.

That is where we ended our 4 week East Coast road trip. But here are a few other stops we have made over the years that you could add to your trip:

Shenandoah National park

Shenandoah National park is a great stop when visiting Virginia.

Here are a view things to do:

• Shenandoah National Park Self-Driving Audio Guide
• Luray Caverns and Shenandoah Skyline Drive Guided Tour

Williamsburg

When in Virginia you don’t want to miss making a stop at Colonial Williamsburg.

Colonial Williamsburg Guided Walking Tour Learn about the role that Williamsburg played in our nation’s independence.

Busch Gardens & Water Country Option Ticket Enjoy family fun at this great theme park

Haunted Ghosts, Witches and Pirates Tour Hear stories of the ghosts that haunt Colonial Williamsburg

Virginia Beach

Sunset Dolphin Kayak Tours experience the sunset over the Chesapeake Bay on this 2-hour kayak tour

Wetland Zipline Tour See a unique view of the wetland forest of Virginia Beach

Comfort Inn Williamsburg Gateway This hotel is centrally located halfway between the Jamestown Settlement and Colonial Williamsburg.

Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel This great family-friendly hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool, children’s playground, and fitness center.

Hampton Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront North is located oceanfront this hotel only steps away from fun attractions and nightlife.

3 Bedroom Home with a Great Patio

Beautiful 5 Bedroom Home Steps Away from the Beach

North Carolina

Head inland to Asheville. Located off of the Blue Ridge Parkway. We love the town of Asheville – they have some great shops and breweries. We also love all of the hiking and things to do in the surrounding area.

Things To Do In Asheville:

• Scenic Helicopter Experience Take in unbeatable views of Asheville and the Blue Ridge Mountains

Check out our posts for more details:

9 Amazing And Fun Things To Do In Asheville With Kids

5 Best Kid Friendly Breweries in Asheville, North Carolina

Kid Friendly Hikes Near Asheville, North Carolina

Accommodations in Asheville

Wilson’s Riverfront RV Park This is a wonderful campground located right on the French Broad River.

Blue Ridge Travel Park This RV park is located in nearby Hendersonville. It is surrounded by beautiful views and great places to hike.

Country Inn and Suites by Radisson A mile from Asheville and 2.5 miles from the Biltmore the Country Inn has a continental breakfast, fitness center, and indoor heated pool. 

The Omni Grove Park Inn  – Built in 1913 the Grove Park Inn is a beautiful place to stay in Asheville. There are plenty of amenities on site such as a subterranean spa with mineral pools, a sauna, a steam room, and a golf course on site.

Mountaintop Log Cabin is located in a well-established community with plenty of privacy and a 300-acre nature preserve within walking distance as well. 

Relaxing Mountain Cabin  – Two-story cabin with a wonderful deck with a hot tub and fire table. Located near downtown Asheville and close to all the many hiking trails that Asheville has to offer. 

South Carolina

Fort Sumter in Charleston holds an important place in our country’s history. Book here to take a ferry ride to Fort Sumter and explore the museum and National monument.

Tour historic downtown Charleston by horse-drawn carriage on this 1 hour guided experience.

Savor the flavors of Charleston on this food tour. Learn about Charleston’s 300 years of culinary history on this 2.5-hour tour.

Congaree National Park

Home to the oldest and largest intact expanse of old-growth bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the southeastern United States, Congaree National Park in South Carolina has a fairytale-like quality.

Learn more: 10 Fun Things to do in Congaree National Park

Learn the secrets and stories that make Savannah America’s Most Haunted City on this small group walking tour. It is about 3 hours but the time flies and the kids are sure to love it.

A great Tybee Island tour idea is  this dolphin tour . You’ll have a good chance to see dolphins. You will love seeing over a hundred reptiles at the alligator pond. You’ll get views of Cockspur Island Lighthouse, Fort Pulaski, and Tybee Island Lighthouse. However, this tour is 5 hours in length so plan to do a day trip to Tybee Island.

Explore Savannah on this hop-on-and-off historic trolley tour get on or off at any of the 14 stops including Temple Mickve Israel, the Cathedral of St John the Baptist, the Antique Mall, and more.

Riverboat Harbor Narrated Sightseeing Cruise Sail along Savannah’s beautiful waterfront while you learn about the history of this great city.

More Wonderful Activities in Savannah

Discover amazing places to eat on the East Side Food Tour . Enjoy award-winning food without having to wait in line. Find out the best places to dine that only the locals know.

If you love spooky be sure to check out the Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour where you will learn all about the paranormal and haunting in America’s Most Haunted City.

Learn more about Savannah: 21 Superb Things To Do In Savannah, GA with Kids

If you are interested in staying in the historic district be sure to check out this post: Where to stay in Savannah’s Historic District.

McIntosh Manor RV Park and Campground  – Located on Highway 17 in Townsend, Georgia, about 45 minutes outside of Savannah. This campground offers amenities including 30/50 amp hookups, a large fire pit, and a laundry facility.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Walking distance from the Ships to Sea Museum and other popular attractions. This hotel offers private parking, a fitness center, free bikes, and a continental breakfast.

Marriott Savannah Riverfront this luxury hotel is located downtown. The hotel has an attached restaurant and marvelous city views.

4 Bedroom Victorian Home in the Historic District

2 Bedroom Charming Home in a Great Location

St Augustine

We won’t want to miss the oldest city in the US: St Augustine, Florida! There is so much history here and so many great things to do from a St Augustine romantic getaway to an awesome family trip!

Marineland Dolphin Adventure is about 20 miles south of St Augustine. Book your ticket here. One option at Marineland is to swim with the dolphins. During this encounter you will get to touch, swim and play with these amazing sea creatures.

Visit the haunted side of America’s oldest town with the Ghost Walking Tour .

Potter’s Wax Museum was the first wax museum in the US. It opened its doors in 1949. You can visit its fascinating collection of more than 150 wax figures.

Learn more: 17 Exciting Things To Do In St. Augustine With Kids and Unique Museums In St Augustine.

Where to Stay in St Augustine

Sun Outdoors St Augustine numerous site options including full hookups, shaded site, patio sites and buddy sites at this large RV park.

Ocean Grove RV Resort is located just blocks away from St. Augustine beach. This property offers several activities year round to keep the entire family entertained.

Sebastian Hotel  – offering extra large guest rooms or two room suites, perfect for a family trip.

DoubleTree by Hilton  – located in the Historic District, convenient to the Fountain of Youth and Castillo De San Marcos.

Ocean Front Home Minutes from Downtown

There are so many fun things to do in Orlando! It has our favorite outdoor water park in the US: Volcano Bay. Of course Disney World and Universal with Harry Potter World. But there are also a lot of other fun things to do in Orlando with kids including tubing down a gorgeous river!

Here are a few more posts to help you plan your time in Orlando:

• Magic Kingdom
• Universal Orlando Tips
• Discover 24 Tips for Universal Volcano Bay

Legoland Florida is a must see if you have younger kids.

Other Fun Orlando Activities

Titanic Artifact Exhibition Ticket Travel back in time to visit the Titanic in this 20,000 square foot interactive museum

Orlando Go City Explorer Pass Save money on the top tours and attractions in Orlando

Explore the beauty of the Everglades on this Sunset Airboat Tour . During this 1-hour tour you will search for alligators, turtles and other wildlife.

If you are in Orlando during the Halloween season be sure to Check out Universal Halloween Horror Nights.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites is located a short drive from Orlando’s main attractions. You will love the family rooms, pool, fitness center, free parking and more.

Endless Summer Resort with Universal The Resort itself is nice with a large pool and multiple food options.

Stunning 3 Bedroom/2 Bath Orlando Vista Cay

Large 4 Bedroom Close to Universal Studios

Florida Keys

The Florida Keys have so much to offer! We love going here with our family and getting out on the water. You can learn more about our Florida Keys Road Trip here!

Snorkeling Tours

Half Day Snorkel Trip See the marine life of the Keys up close as you explore the US’s only living coral reef. This is suitable for beginners, you only have to know how to swim.

Snorkel 2 Coral Reefs Visit some of the best snorket sites in the Key Largo Marine Sancturary. See John Pennekamp Coral Reef Park, Christ of the Abyss, Elbow Reef, and Grecian Rocks on this tour.

Glass Bottom Boat Sunset Cruise Enjoy the beauty of the fish without getting wet in this glass bottom boat. During this 2-hour cruise you will see one of the gorgeous sunsets the Keys are known for.

Go for a Sunset Sail on a Schooner Sailboat Sit back with a glass of champagne and relax watching for native marine life on this epic sailboat cruise.

Fiesta Key RV resort  – a good campground with full hookups, sites on the water (if you can get one), a large pool, and an onsite restaurant overlooking the ocean!

Sun Outdoors Key Largo  located in Key Largo, smaller campground with only about 35 full hookup sites.

Baker’s Cay Resort Key Largo a variety of water sports and amentities including private beach access are offered at this resort.

Playa Largo Resort & Spa you will be impressed by the amenites offered including private cabanas, fire pits, hot tubs, and water sports facilities.

Fun in the Sun 3 Bedroom House

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The Best 7 Day Roadtrip On Florida’s East Coast

• Post last modified: April 23, 2023
• Post category: Florida

Spend one week driving along the sunshine state’s sunrise coast! Florida’s east coast is perfect for a road trip. As you cruise down the A1A, you’ll visit charming beach towns, beautiful beaches, the wild and wonderful Miami , an island dedicated to both space exploration and wildlife preservation, plus miles of marshes. A road trip down Florida’s east coast will take you to all these destinations and more! Keep reading to find the itinerary for our one week Florida road trip.

This guide to Florida’s east coast takes you from the southern tip of Florida in the Everglades National Park to the northern end in St. Augustine. You can reverse this trip if it suits you better. You can also add a drive through the Florida Keys to the beginning of your trip as well.

Florida’s East Coast Road Trip

Day 1 – everglades national park.

First, spend one full day exploring the southern section of Everglades National Park. You’ll enter the park from Homestead and spend the day driving to Flamingo. On your way, stop to hike through the unique ecosystem, visit an abandoned missile base, spot manatees and more.  

For our full guide to the Everglades, including the top hikes and tours, check out our post here.

Don’t forget to pack a lunch for the day. There aren’t many food vendors in the park so packing a lunch will help you save money and time.

Spend the night in Homestead or Miami.  

Day 2 – Waterways

Morning – shark valley.

Spend the morning exploring another park of Everglades National Park. Enter the park via the Shark Valley entrance. Here you’ll definitely want to splurge on the guided tram tour. It was our favorite thing to do in the Everglades . This tram tour will help you explore the entire Shark Valley area and see a lot of wildlife.  

On your way out of Everglades National Park, stop at one of the park approved airboat tour companies to fly through the grasslands. These short tours may spot some alligators for you, but even if they don’t you’ll enjoy the thrilling ride.  

Next, drive back into Miami and head for the beach.

Afternoon – Miami Beach

Grab lunch at one of the amazing restaurants in Miami Beach. Caribbean, Central and South American influenced food is popular here.  

Next, spend the afternoon lying on Miami Beach, one of the top beaches in the United States. This beach contains miles of beautifully maintained sand. However, these beaches are popular so be prepared for crowds. If beach going gets boring, consider wandering the streets of Miami Beach (the town not the beach) to check out the art deco buildings the city is popular for.

If you’re interested in a good party, stay late into the night at Miami Beach. This town is as much of a party town as Las Vegas!

Stay overnight in Miami.

Day 3 – Miami Neighborhoods

Morning – little havana.

First, eat a light breakfast this morning as you’ll be eating your way through Little Havana. Take a late morning food tour in Little Havana. This was our favorite thing we did in Miami . Once you’re done with this tour, you won’t need lunch. Little Havana was our favorite neighborhood in Miami so keep exploring if you’re having a good time.

Check out some other Miami tours here. By buying from the links below, we'll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Read the full Terms and Conditions here.

Afternoon – Wynwood

Next, explore the Wynwood Walls. This street art museum in Wynwood is full of beautiful art. Then, explore the rest of the buildings in the neighborhood. While Wynwood Walls holds a majority of the street art, the entire neighborhood of Wynwood is famous for their street art.  

Evening – Take a Cruise

Next, spend the evening on a booze cruise around the huge houses of Miami. These celebrity homes tours seem super cheesy, but exploring the huge homes is very fun!

Have dinner downtown at one of the popular restaurants or head back to Little Havana and eat at the popular Versailles .  

For other things to do in Miami, check out our list of things to do here.

Stay overnight in Miami once again.  

Day 4 – Miami – Glitz and Glam

Morning – Vizcaya

First, head to Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. This home from the Golden Age of Miami is a study in opulence. Spend the morning wandering the grounds and the home and imagining life in the glittering age.  

Grab lunch in Miami before heading north.

Afternoon – Driving the A1A

Next, start your scenic drive north on the A1A. While Vizcaya will be the largest house you see today, you’ll still see some whoppers along the coast as you drive north.  

Stay overnight along the coast. We loved Melbourne and thought it would be a charming place to stay.  

Day 5 – Kennedy Space Center and the Beach

Morning – kennedy space center.

First, drive out to the Kennedy Space Center. You’ll be driving through a National Wildlife Refuge, so keep your eyes peeled for fun birds.  

Once arriving at the space center, purchase your tickets. Honestly, we thought these tickets were outrageously expensive for what you get. But also, where else does one go to see rocket ships. So according to the laws of supply and demand, I will begrudgingly recommend this activity. Kids will love this stop. So if you are exploring Florida’s east coast with your family, it will be the most expensive thing you do but kids were having a riot here. However, if space or engineering isn’t your jam, just continue on to the free beach.

Spend the morning exploring the Kennedy Space Center. Don’t forget to take the included bus to the Apollo/Saturn V Center. We thought this was the coolest section as it houses an actual space shuttle. There are also several virtual reality type rides at the space center. There are long lines for these so if you are interested try to do these early in the morning.  

Afternoon – Beach

Next, head back to Melbourne for an afternoon at the beach or continue on to Daytona for, you guessed it, an afternoon at the beach. What road trip along Florida’s east coast would be complete without a day on the beach? We spent our’s at Daytona Beach and we enjoyed it.  

Grab lunch or dinner by the ocean in Daytona Beach and enjoy some seafood. Don’t forget to wander along the pier and visit all the very touristy shops, many of which call their home Daytona Beach.  

Stay overnight in Daytona Beach. We think this should be your splurge night for accommodations as there are tons of great ocean front properties to stay at here.  

Day 6 – Outside of St. Augustine

Morning – fort matanzas.

First, travel north along the A1A once again until you reach Fort Matanzas National Monument. Spend the morning taking the ferry to the fort and hearing an excellent lecture from fort staff about the history of St. Augustine. This may be a very specific accolade but the staff at Fort Matanzas gave the best lecture we’ve ever heard in all of our National Park wanderings.  

Grab lunch in St. Augustine Beach. There are tons of great oceanfront restaurants in this area.  

Afternoon – St. Augustine Shores

Next, visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Maritime Museum. This museum is beautiful and the lighthouse is even prettier. You’ll also get a great view of the city of St. Augustine.

If you have time left in your evening, head to Anastasia State Park for some bird watching, beach going or hiking.

Stay overnight in St. Augustine.  

Day 7 – St. Augustine Trolley Tour

Spend your final day enjoying a hop-on hop-off trolley tour in St. Augustine. We love a good hop-on-hop-off tour and this was a good one. The guides are knowledgeable and the tour goes along in a trolley, which adds to the charm of exploring the oldest city in the United States.  

For more things to do in St. Augustine, check out our list of fun things to do here.

Want to adjust the itinerary.

If you don’t have 7 days, this itinerary can be severely shortened. We stayed several days in Miami and St. Augustine. If you’re not interested in these areas you could shorten your amount of time in each area. This entire drive takes about 5 hours. So without stopping, you could drive Florida’s east coast in one day. However, we think the fewest number of days for a Florida east coast road trip is 3 days. You could do the day 3 and day 7 itineraries with a beach day in the middle and still have a good sampling of the coast.  

If you want to extend this itinerary, consider adding on a Key West road trip to the beginning of your vacation. You could also add a side trip to Orlando or one of the many Orlando theme parks after visiting Daytona Beach.  

We hope this description of our Florida’s east coast road trip has helped you to plan your own Florida vacation. If you have any questions or suggestions, please leave them in the comments section below.  

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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!

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2 Weeks on the East Coast USA: 3 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

The East Coast of America is a travel destination with plenty to offer everyone. The scenic natural beauty and exciting cities, which stretch from Florida in the South to Maine in the North, is an excellent region to explore.

I actually spent 4 weeks in this part of the US during winter . And while I don’t think you need that much, know that there are plenty of things to do if you find yourself in the same situation as I did.

If you have 2 weeks on the East Coast USA, you could do so much. Whether you enjoy skiing, dining, water activities, hiking, or visiting museums, you’ll undoubtedly find a variety of activities to do in the top places in this region.

Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Florida, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia are among the 14 states that comprise the East Coast of the USA. ca

These states border the Atlantic Ocean and provide a variety of coastal activities and sights, including theme parks, beaches, lighthouses, and museums.

RELATED POST: If you prefer to see the West Coast of the US, we also have a 2 weeks in the West Coast USA Itinerary or our 2 weeks in California itinerary

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING THE EAST COAST OF USA

Before you get on your computer and make some travel arrangements, check out these things you should know about going on a trip to the East Coast of the US. This will help you ensure that you’re visiting at the right time and see if you can make a road trip or need to fly.

When is the best time to go to the East Coast US

This depends on what you want to do. The East Coast of the US is massive and features super unique seasons. For example, if you want to avoid high humidity in Florida, you must go in winter. But that means it will be too cold to explore around New England covered in snow in winter.

If you want to mix the south and northern east coast, it’s best to go during early spring for good weather in the south. At the same time, it’s no longer freezing in New England.

On the other hand, if you just want to see New England, then come visit in the autumn season when the fall foliage is at its best colour at the same time, it’s not too cold yet.

The best time to visit the East Coast of the USA is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) . These months offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful foliage in the fall.

Peak season is during the summer (June to August) when it’s warmest, attracting the most tourists, especially to beach destinations.

Winter (December to March) can be cold and snowy, especially in the northern parts. The rainy season varies but generally includes spring and summer.

RELATED POST: What to pack for a 2-week trip

Are 2 weeks enough for East Coast USA

Not really. As mentioned before, it’s a big region. However, if you are realistic about the places you want to see and decide to mix flying and driving, 14 days on the East Coast of the US can be ideal.

In this article, I’m featuring three travel itineraries. You can either just cover the south or just the north – which can be done as a road trip on the east coast of the US. But you can drive first if you want to do the entire region.

Then after exploring for seven days, take a flight to your next destination (especially if driving is longer than 6 hours), and then rent another vehicle there. Plan to see about 3-4 cities that are near one another.

Getting around

There is a train system (AMTRAK) on the East Coast, but they’re not well-connected through each state. Most trains travel within each state only, while the others are for cargo shipping only.

There are also public buses, trolleys, and subways you can rely on . Travelling around via bus and train is the most affordable, but it can take a chunk of your time from your limited days.

My best recommendation for getting around the East Coast US is to rent a car, especially if you plan to explore states or cities near one another. Then you can also book tours for city sightseeing to take a break from driving.

Of course, there are ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft. There are plenty of taxis, but they can be very pricey.

If you want to see the northern and southern parts of the East Coast, booking a flight is better when the driving is longer than 5 or 6 hours.

Language and currency

English is the primary language in the US. But once you reach Florida, especially in Miami, many people speak Spanish, and even restaurant signs and menus are displayed in both languages.

On the other hand, if you reach Vermont and Maine, you’ll notice how some people speak French since it’s by the border to the French-Canada Region of Quebec.

The US Dollar (USD) is the main currency here . You can pay both by cash or bank card. Cashless payment is super typical here , and most locals don’t even carry any cash with them. But as a visitor, having at least $50 with you for emergencies is best.

Since this is part of the US, the visa policy in place is not super easy. For travellers from Europe, Canada, Chile, Japan, Australia, South Korea, New Zealand, and Singapore, you can enjoy visa-free and enter the US for up to 6 months.

Other travellers must apply for the US tourist visa (B1/B2) before your planned trip.

What is the average cost for 2 weeks on the East Coast USA

On average, you should budget a minimum of $2,500 for 14 days on the east coast of the US. Accommodation will be the most expensive, followed by gas prices, then food. You can go on a shoestring budget of $1,500 if you stay in hostels or rent a small van where you can sleep.

For luxury, you must have a $4,000 budget to sleep in four or five-star hotels and eat out in top-dollar restaurants.

You should remember that store prices don’t include sales tax. This means that when you checkout, you’re more likely to pay a bit, around 8% more. You are also expected to give a 20%-25% tip in the service industry . This is for services such as food, taxis, hotels, etc.

This estimated budget doesn’t include your flight to and from the US, travel insurance, and travel items you will need.

Other basic travel tips

Medical travel insurance is a must for travelling to the US. The medical cost here, especially for emergencies, is super expensive.

You must get insurance from companies that are global or US-based , so you don’t have to expect to pay out of your pocket and wait for reimbursement. Leaving with a hospital bill in the US could affect your future travels in the country.

I know 2 weeks on the East Coast USA is not a long trip, but it’s undoubtedly not worth the risk of not getting medical insurance coverage. It’s also possible that the immigration officer will ask you to show one, and this might be a reason to deny you entry.

PINNED MAP OF TOP THINGS TO SEE ON EAST COAST US

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS ON THE EAST COAST USA ITINERARY

Planning 2 weeks on the East Coast USA can be challenging, as there is so much to see and do in the region. However, I have curated some example itineraries that can serve as a guide for you.

These itineraries include one for first-time visitors, one for a tour of New England, and one for a trip along the Southeast Coast.

The suggested itineraries are not mandatory, you can always make your own itinerary , depending on your interests and preferences. It’s important to note that the East Coast is a huge region with many more places to visit and things to do.

MUST-READ: 2 weeks in the US (across the country – 7 itineraries)

Itinerary #1: First-time visitor (Boston, New York, Washington D.C., Miami)

This itinerary for 2 weeks on the East Coast USA is designed for those visiting the East Coast for the first time and looking to experience some of the most iconic cities.

It includes New York City, Boston, Washington D.C., and Miami stops. These cities offer diverse experiences and attractions, providing a comprehensive overview of this region.

Apart from that, this itinerary is ideal, particularly if you have children who want to go to Disneyland, as it affords plenty of rides, parades, and shows that will keep them entertained for hours on end.

I highly recommend coming in the late spring or late summer season. It has warm weather and is not too humid.

This itinerary is most efficiently done by air travel (domestic flight), with the option to fly into Boston and fly back home from Miami.

However, if you prefer to drive, it is possible to do so from Boston to Washington D.C. However, remember that you must leave your rented car and catch a flight to Miami for the last leg of the trip.

Boston and around for 4 days

Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is an exciting city with world-class museums, beautiful parks, and green spaces. If you’re interested in higher education, stroll through the campus of Harvard University, one of the most prestigious universities in the world.

You can also check out Boston Common, America’s oldest public park, which provides visitors an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy the outdoors. During my visit here, which is about a week, I went for a run at the Boston Common and it’s also where the Freedom Trail starts.

Located in the heart of the New England Region, this city is an excellent starting point for day trips. You can see some of America’s most iconic historic sites and attractions there. For those looking for a change of scenery, you can plan a day trip to the long beaches of Cape Cod.

New York City and around for 4 days

The first time I went to New York was in the middle of winter. While it wasn’t that cold, it was definitely gloomy. I didn’t mind though because I found a hotel room for $80 a night right in the heart of the Times Square.

New York City is a global destination renowned for its energy and iconic landmarks. Tourists are attracted to this bustling metropolis to enjoy the famous Broadway shows, indulge in world-class shopping and dining experiences, and explore the many popular tourist destinations.

I was a typical tourist in New York. I went to Times Square, saw a show on Broadway, ate at a local pizza place, saw the Lady Liberty, and walked everywhere. I honestly understand why many people dream of living here,

In terms of safety in New York , where there are lots of homeless, there’s also a big presence of police in the touristy areas. So, in general, I felt quite safe during my trip there.

The Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Central Park are among the must-see attractions that draw visitors to the city. For those who are fond of the show Friends, you can do a DIY walking tour of the Friends NYC locations and find the Friends house in New York on your own.

The most popular option from Boston to New York City is a direct flight with a duration of 1 hr 20 min, although you still have to arrive at the airport at least an hour and a half before your flight (depending on Boston traffic and how busy the airport).

On the other hand, the road distance from Boston to New York City is 364.8 km (226.7 miles), and you can reach it by a 4 hr 40 min-car ride via route I-84. I took the bus from Boston and it took a bit over 6 hours since the bus was not going through a direct route.

Washington D.C for 3 days

Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, is an ideal destination for those interested in politics as it is home to many of the country’s most important government buildings.

Apart from that, The National Mall is a must-see attraction, featuring the city’s most prominent landmarks, such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Smithsonian Museums.

Visitors also have the opportunity to take a tour inside the White House , though it is important to note that these tours must be arranged in advance through your embassy or Congressional office.

There are several daily flights between New York City and Washington D.C., about 1 hr 23 min. When driving, the quickest route you should follow is I-95 S which is roughly 4 hr 25 min across a total distance of approximately 364 km (226.2 mi).

Florida for 4 days

I also thought of Florida is the destination for people of all ages. Bring the kids to the theme park and the adults to the beach and the bars.

Anyone looking for a magical and unforgettable vacation experience will find four incredible theme parks at Orlando’s Walt Disney World , including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Each has unique attractions, making it the best place to conclude your two weeks on East Coast USA trip.

Located on the waterfront in Miami, The Bayside Marketplace is the place to be if you’re looking for a place to shop and dine, as it features over 120 stores and 30 restaurants. Visiting Miami and Orlando on the same trip can be a great way to experience the best of Florida in 4 days.

You can take a 2 hr 48 min direct flight from Washington D.C. to Miami . The non-stop flight between Washington D.C. and Orlando is approximately 2 hr 40 min. You can also fly to Orlando, spend a day or two, and then drive down from Orland to Miami, which takes just a little over 3 hours to finish your 2 weeks on the East Coast USA

Itinerary #2: New England Route (Boston, Coastal Maine/Acadia, Burlington/White Mountain National Forest, Springfield, Providence)

History buffs will enjoy visiting these places since this itinerary takes you through the first colony area of the British Empire in the Americas.

The route passes through charming coastal towns, picturesque countryside, and bustling cities, offering a diverse range of experiences for travellers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

The Maine Archipelago is a group of islands situated off the coast of Maine, known for its scenic beauty. Some places you need to add to your itinerary include The Permaquid Point Lighthouse, Old Orchard Beach, The Farnsworth Art Museum, and Acadia National Park.

I recommend booking a flight to Boston as your starting point and catching home from Boston or Providence at the end of your trip to make it more of a circular itinerary.

One of the major draws of the New England Route is during autumn, when the region’s trees put on a spectacular display of fall foliage, making it an ideal time to explore the region’s parks, forests, and countryside.

However, the New England Route is best avoided in winter unless you plan to visit ski resorts. If you’d rather spend time in nature than the city, skip Burlington and head straight to White Mountain National Forest.

Boston for 3 days

Boston is a premier destination for those interested in the history of America’s colonial and Revolutionary War eras since it holds more history of this period than any other in the country, making it an ideal starting point for an East Coast USA trip.

Unsurprisingly, its main historical sites have become a famous pilgrimage for Americans and international visitors seeking to understand this period of time.

Riding the iconic Swan Boats around the lake surrounding the Boston Public Garden’s centre is one of the city’s most memorable experiences for people of all ages.

Popular tourist destinations in Boston include the Freedom Trail , a 3-mile long trail showcasing 16 historical sites, including the Old South Meeting House and the USS Constitution Museum. It took me about 3 hours to finish this trail as I took my time in stopping at every site.

Coast Maine and Acadia National Park for 3 days

The Permaquid Point Lighthouse offers magnificent coast and Atlantic Ocean views. Old Orchard Beach is a classic beach resort that embraces its retro charm as it is New England’s only remaining full-scale amusement park on a beach that will delight visitors of all ages.

In addition, The Farnsworth Art Museum has an exceptional collection of art by Maine-affiliated artists and its Wyeth Center, showcasing the works of N.C., Andrew, and James Wyeth. It is a must-see for fans of the Wyeth family.

For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, Acadia National Park , located on the coast of Maine, extends a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, cycling, and kayaking.

The park is even home to Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak at 1,530 feet, providing views of the coast and islands. Other highlights in the park are Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and Thunder Hole.

If you’re looking for a beautiful road trip, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road from Boston to Acadia National Pa rk. With a distance of 451.3 km (280.4 mi), the drive is about 4 hr 28 min and takes you along the scenic route of I-95 N.

Burlington or White Mountain National Forest for 3 days

You can choose between White Mountain and Burlington, depending on what you want to do and see. You can see both, but your schedule will be tight.

Suppose you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Burlington. In that case, you should definitely experience taking a cruise in Lake Champlain as it presents stunning views of the mountain, and provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of the lake and the Revolutionary War.

With over 100 stores and restaurants, the Church Street Marketplace, a charming pedestrian mall, is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

The White Mountain National Forest is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of outdoor activities year-round. One of the area’s main draws is its high peaks, including the iconic Mount Washington, the tallest mountain in New England.

Adventure-seekers can take on the challenging Franconia Ridge hike , which features a 9-mile loop trail with views of Mount Lincoln, Mount Lafayette, and Little Haystack Mountain.

On the other hand, there are also beginner-friendly options like the Flume Gorge hike, a 2-mile round-trip trail that leads to waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views.

From Acadia National Park, you can drive directly to Burlington , which is around 6 hours, taking up 333 miles.

If you want to stop at White Mountain first and spend a night or two, the drive from Acadia National Park is approximately 3 hr 32 min through route I-95 S which spans 294.7 km (183.1 mi).

Then continue your drive from White Mountain National Forest to Burlington. This will take you under 1 hr 44 min on a scenic route along US-302 W and I-89 N with an entire distance of 136 km (84.5 mi).

Springfield for 2 days

Packed with a dozen thrilling coasters and a waterpark, get your adrenaline pumping at Six Flags, the largest theme park in New England . You can also pay homage to the sport of basketball at the Basketball Hall of Fame, which honours over 400 star players and coaches, featuring exhibits, skills challenges, and shooting contests.

Step back in history at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, and you’ll be at the very spot where guns that won the American Revolution were manufactured.

If you plan to get from Burlington to Springfield, you can drive by car down routes I-89 S and I-91 S. The trip will take about 3 hr 12 min and spans 336.5 km (209.1 mi).

Alternatively, if you’re skipping Burlington, Springfield is just a 2 hr 43 min drive away from White Mountain National Park via I-91 S for the entire distance of 255.9 km (159 mi).

You can also skip Springfield and drive directly from Burlington to Providence, which will take 4 hours (264 miles/424.8 km). Fro, White Mountain National Forest to Providence, that’s a 2 hr and 45 min journey covering 176 miles (283 km).

Providence for 3 days

Providence is the capital city of Rhode Island State. It is rich in history with incredible New England architecture, you can visit the State House and the John Brown House Museum. You can also dive into the culinary where you can check out food trucks and fantastic seafood dishes.

While at the park, visit the Botanical Center, New England’s largest public indoor display garden that boasts 12,000 square feet of gardens.

Whether you’re a fan of French Impressionists, Japanese prints, ancient Egyptian designs, or contemporary art, you’ll be able to indulge your artistic passions and discover new favourites at the RISD Museum of Art.

Travelling by car is a flexible way to get from Springfield to Providence. The quickest route is to go along I-90 E, which takes an average time of 1 hr 29 min from a distance of 136.5 km (84.8 mi).

Itinerary #3: Southeast Coast (Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, Savannah, Atlanta)

If you’re looking for a fun-filled adventure on the Southeast Coast of the United States , look no further, as I have the perfect itinerary for your 14 days on the East Coast USA.

Start your journey in Miami, where you can soak up the sun on Miami Beach. Next, head to Orlando, home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

From there, travel to Jacksonville, where you can explore the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Then, head to Savannah and take in the views of River Street. Finally, end your journey in Atlanta and visit the famous Georgia Aquarium.

This route is ideal for a road trip since the distance between the cities is not too long. I recommend booking a flight to Miami and ending your trip to Atlanta, where you can fly back home.

Miami for 3 days days

Escape to the sun-soaked paradise of Miami, a premier vacation destination in South Florida known for its picturesque beaches. Miami Beach is a seaside haven with peaceful neighbourhoods, lively entertainment hotspots, and miles of soft-sand beaches.

Take a stroll and admire the pastel-coloured buildings from the 1930s and 1940s in the Art Deco Historic District.

Experience the wild side of Florida with a visit to The Everglades National Park , where visitors can witness the incredible array of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, crocodiles, and more, in their natural habitat.

When it comes to beautiful beaches, you can also spend 2 weeks in Hawaii .

Orlando for 3 days

You can’t spend 2 weeks on the East Coast of the US without seeing at least one theme park or themed museum. If you’re looking for an out-of-this-world experience, add the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to your list of day trips since it provides a glimpse into one of NASA’s most well-known operations centres.

Another must-visit destination is Discovery Cov e, which allows you to interact with ocean life in a natural setting. You can sign up for snorkelling and discover coral reed with a full dive helmet. You’ll also see stingrays, and even swim with dolphins.

For fans of the Harry Potter series, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the place to be. It is designed to immerse visitors in the magical world of Harry Potter, such as experiencing thrilling rides, sampling delicious butterbeer, trying wand magic classes, and so on.

The fastest way to get from Miami to Orlando is by plane , with a 1 hr 9 min flight duration. If you prefer to travel by car, the distance between the two cities is around 378.5 km (235.2 mi) which is around 3 hr 28 min along Florida’s Turnpike.

Jacksonville for 2 days

One of the main reasons to visit Jacksonville is its beautiful beaches, like Jacksonville Beach and Atlantic Beach, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

Apart from that, Jacksonville is also home to several cultural attractions, such as the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens and the Kingsley Plantation, which give visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history.

Foodies will also appreciate the diverse range of dining options available in this city, from seafood restaurants and steakhouses to craft breweries and bars.

The road trip between Orlando and Jacksonville takes about 2 hr and 10 min , covering a distance of 229.8 km (142.9 mi). You can take routes I-4E and I-95 N.

Savannah for 3 days

From grand old mansions to lush parks with fountains and sprawling moss-covered trees , Savannah exudes a timeless elegance that is truly breathtaking. Strolling down Bull Street is the best way to experience the preserved Savannah Historic District.

With its cobblestone streets and restored warehouses, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants on River Street or take a boat tour along the Savannah River to get the best riverfront photo ops.

You can expect the trip from Jacksonville to Savannah , which spans 223.5 km (138.9 mi), by driving to take 2 hr 4 min through route I-95 N.

Atlanta for 3 days

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational experience for the whole family, the High Museum of Art is a great choice.

If you’re looking for a serene escape amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, look no further than the 30-acre Atlanta Botanical Garden .

The most convenient way to travel from Savannah to Atlanta is to take a flight, which typically takes about 1 hr 11 min with Delta Airlines. If you drive, the quickest route is to take I-16 W to I-75 N . The estimated arrival time is 3 hr 52 min through the entire distance of approximately 399.1 km (248 mi).

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN (per city)

Atlanta, georgia.

• Save money and get an Atlanta CityPass
• High Museum of Art
• Atlanta – learn about Black History and Civil Rights
• Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
• World of Coca-Cola – get your skip-the-line ticket
• Piedmont Park
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Day trip to North Georgia Wine Country – join a tour
• Stone Mountain Park

Burlington, Vermont

Boston, massachusetts.

• For exploring Boston downtown, get a hop-on, hop-off trolley pass or get a Go City pass
• Cape Cod National Seashore
• Boston Common and Public Garden Swan Boats
• Plimoth Patuxet
• Spooky Tours – Haunting of Salem – Haunting Salem or Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley
• Museum of Science
• Fenway Park – join a tour with a local guide
• Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
• Freedom Trail – discover with history and food
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Day trip to Martha’s Vineyard – book a tour with a round-trip ferry
• Faneuil Hall
• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum – enjoy an interactive tour
• Crane Beach
• Boston Harbor Islands State Park
• Carson Beach
• John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library
• Harvard University – explore with a student guide
• Wachusett Mountain
• Jiminy Peak
• Learn about the cuisine of Massachusettes – book a walking tasting tour or underground donut tour or buffet cruise at Boston Harbor

Coastal Maine/White Mountain National Forest

Miami, florida.

• Miami – cruise to see Millionaire homes or join a speedboat sightseeing or evening cruise on Biscayne Bay
• Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
• Everglades National Park – book Everglades Airboat Tour and Wildlife Tour
• Deering Estate
• Fort Lauderdale – get a water taxi all-day pass
• Key West – sunset sail and live music
• Coral Castle
• St. Augustine – get a hop-on, hop-off trolley pass
• Go Food and Drinks Exploration – join Little Havana food walking tour (Miami)

New York City

• Discover New York – on a one-day sightseeing tour or purchase a New York CityPass
• Central Park
• Manhattan – go on a helicopter ride
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Statue of Liberty – combo with Ellis Island tour
• Times Square
• One World Observatory – get your admission ticket
• Brooklyn Bridge
• 9/11 Memorial Museum – purchase an entry ticket
• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
• Summit One Vanderbilt – read the tour reviews
• Empire State Building – skip the line and go to 102nd Deck
• The High Line
• American Museum of Natural History – get your pass
• Rockefeller Center
• Friends Experience – visit the production set
• Top of The Rock
• Ice Cream Museum – book a ticket in advance
• Bryant Park
• Go on culinary experience – visit Chinatown and Little Italy or Greenwich Village or Brooklyn food tour or Hell’s Kitchen Tour
• Washington Square Park
• Enjoy a dinner cruise

Orlando, Florida

• Walt Disney World Resort
• Magic Kingdom Park
• Orlando – enjoy a pirate show with dinner
• Universal Orlando Resort
• Rock Spring – go kayaking with a glass-bottomed boat
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
• Snorkel with Manatee – tour with a photographer
• SeaWorld Orlando
• Tampa Bay – purchase a city pass
• The Dalí (Salvador Dalí Museum)
• LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
• Go to Kennedy Space Center – reserve an entry ticket

Savannah, Georgia

• Explore Savannah – by land and sea tour or hop-on, hop-off ancient trolley or join a narrated trolley tour or Riverboat Cruise
• The Davenport House Museum
• Wormsloe Plantation – join a tour from Savannah
• Savannah Theater
• Spooky Savannah – check this history and haunted tour
• Forsyth Park
• Tybee Island – book a guided tour
• Service Brewing Company
• Victorian Districts – combo with Bonaventure Cemetery tour
• Discover food and drinks culture – culinary and culture walking tour or pub crawl and food
• Enjoy nightlife – Savannah Drag Queen Show or Comedy Trolley Tour
• The Olde Pink House
• Ride a helicopter on a scenic tour – read the reviews

Washington D.C.

• Learn about Washington DC – in a one-day tour or on a bike tour or Capitol Hill guided tour
• Library of Congress
• United States Capitol and Capitol Hill – book a Moonlight tour by trolley or simply get your reserved entry pass
• Lincoln Memorial
• Discover DC Monuments – via big bus hop-on, hop-off or a night tour
• Washington Monument
• The White House – advance planning must be done
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Mall – tour on an electric vehicle
• Jefferson Memorial and Tidal Basin
• Mount Vernon – do a day trip combo with Alexandria
• National Gallery of Art
• Smithsonian National Zoological Park and Museum – visit the museum with a private guide
• National Museum of African American History and Culture
• Arlinton National Cemetry – walking tour with changing of guards
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial
• National Harbor Capital Wheel – check the ticket price
• International Spy Museum
• Try out local food and drinks – on a food and history tour or pub crawl and history or cruise and gourmet

MUST-TRY AMERICAN DISHES, DRINKS, AND SNACKS

You’ll visit lots of cities and at least eight states if you follow one of the 2 weeks on the East Coast USA itinerary. This means you can explore this region’s cuisine because it’s a must-not-miss.

The food scene from New England to the seafood capital of Maryland to the southern region is impeccable. Whether you like meat and seafood or are a dessert fan, there’s something for everyone. Heck, if you’re a brewery chaser, don’t miss out on discovering various breweries throughout your trip. Here’s a list of must-try dishes from the East Coast of the US:

• Lobster Roll (New England)
• Pizza (New York)
• Clam Chowder (New England)
• Philly Cheesesteak (Philadelphia)
• Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs (Maryland/Washington D.C.)
• Bagels and Lox (New York)
• Barbecue (South or North Carolina)
• Crab Cakes (Maryland/Washington D.C.)
• Cuban Sandwich (Flordia)
• Shrimp and Grits
• Buffalo Wings (New York)
• Portuguese Sweet Bread (New England)
• Key Lime Pie (Florida)
• Clambake (New England)
• Craft Beers (from Maine to Florida)
• Bourbon (Southern)
• Eggnog (Northeast)
• Cider (Northeast)

ACCOMMODATIONS

• Affordable: The Verb Hotel or HI Boston Hostel or Boston Homestel
• Mid-range: Oasis Guest House or DoubleTree by Hilton or The Godfrey Hotel
• Luxury: Encore Boston Harbor or InterContinental Boston or Seaport Hotel® or Hyatt Place

Portland, Maine

• Affordable: Hampton Inn & Suites or AC Hotel by Marriott or Inn at St John Portland
• Mid-range: Canopy by Hilton or Courtyard by Marriott or Embassy Suites by Hilton
• Luxury: The Press Hotel
• Affordable:
• Mid-range: Green Mountain Suites Hotel or Starlight Inn or Homewood Suites by Hilton
• Luxury: Hotel Vermont Burlington

Springfield, Massachusetts

• Mid-range: Fairfield Inn & Suites or Holiday Inn Express or Hampton Inn & Suites

Providence, Rhode Island

• Mid-range: Residence Inn or Hampton Inn & Suites
• Luxury: Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel or Homewood Suites by Hilton
• Affordable: The Local NY or HI New York City Hostel or West Side YMCA
• Mid-range: The Herald by LuxUrban or Raven Hotel by Wyndham
• Luxury: Riu Plaza Manhattan Time Square or Arlo Midtown or citizenM New York Time Square
• Affordable: Duo Housing or Duo Nomad
• Mid-range: Washington Plaza Hotel or citizenM Washington DC or HighRoad Washington DC
• Luxury: JW Marriott or Sofitel Lafayette Square or Hotel Madera or Riggs Washington DC
• Affordable: Red Roof Inn or La Quinta by Wyndham or Microtel Inn by Wyndham
• Midrange: Reverb by Hard Rock Downtown or The Darwin Hotel
• Luxury: The Candler by Hilton or Glenn Hotel Autograph Collection
• Affordable: Red Roof Inn & Suites Savannah Airport or Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham
• Mid-range: Hotel Indigo or The Thunderbird Inn
• Luxury: Mansion, Kessler Collection or The Marshall House

Jacksonville, Florida

• Affordable: Econo Lodge or Emerson Inn
• Mid-range: DoubleTree by Hilton or Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham
• Luxury: Renu or Hyatt Regency or Aloft Airport Hotel
• Affordable: Hotel Monreale Express or Avanti Palms Resort or Orlando Palms
• Mid-range: Wyndham Garden Airport or Avid Hotels by IHG or Ramada by Wyndham
• Luxury: Hyatt Regency or Caribe Royale or Buena Vista Suites
• Affordable: Art Hostel Wynwood Concept
• Mid-range: Hampton Inn/Coconut Grove or Hilton Garden Inn
• Luxury: East Miami or InterContinental or The Elser Hotel Miami

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS ON THE EAST COAST USA

From bustling cities to quaint coastal towns, the East Coast offers diverse experiences. The East Coast is also a foodie’s paradise, with various cuisines and dining options. You’ll find it here whether you’re in the mood for a classic lobster roll in Maine or a slice of New York-style pizza.

You can also visit world-renowned museums, catch a Broadway show, or simply wander the streets and soak up the cities’ energy.

This region’s history and natural beauty are splendid, and a two-week trip will allow you to immerse yourself in all the East Coast fully has to offer. With so much to see and do, a vacation in this region should not be missed.

I hope I was able to help you plan your 2 weeks on the East Coast USA, whether you’re looking for a beach vacation or an autumn road trip to see the fall foliage.

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7 Epic East Coast USA Road Trip Routes

Planning to take an east coast USA road trip but not sure where you want to go?

We adore taking road trips in the United States, and for as long as I can remember, road tripping the east coast has been my travel comfort zone.

As a child, I was shuttled from Orlando to North Carolina to visit family at least a couple of times a year for the better part of a decade, and a few years later, my family spent a couple of months taking an east coast road trip all the way from North Carolina to Maine.

In my early twenties, I made some truly special memories taking road trips throughout the south with my mom and Grammy.

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Fast forward a few years, and Jeremy and I have put our dent in east coast USA road trips as well, touring both parts of New England and the south by car.

We haven’t been able to get everywhere (yet), though, so for this post, we’ve teamed up with several other travel bloggers to recommend some of the absolute best east coast USA road trip routes… and added a couple of new destinations to our bucket list in the process.

From the southernmost point in the continental USA to the rocky beaches of Maine, here’s where to go on your next USA road trip.

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in each place but if you are doing this as a true road trip it is really cool to do it in an RV. You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

Table of Contents

Southeast USA Road Trip Routes

Mid-atlantic road trip routes, new england road trip routes.

Miami to Key West Road Trip

From Sarah of Travels of Sarah Fay

The best way to see the beauty of Florida is a drive from the art deco-clad roads of Miami, to the beaches of Key West. Also, there is something very satisfying about reaching the end of the Route 1 highway in Key West.

It is so iconic that it is popular to take a photo at the last highway marker for Route 1 in Key West. 

This iconic overseas highway crosses 42 bridges that take you to a few destinations not to be missed including Key Largo, Islamorada, Bahia Honda State Park, and the famous Key West, which is indisputably one of the best beach towns on the east coast .

Top things to do in Key Largo include taking a glass-bottom boat tour or snorkeling to see one of the world’s best reefs.

The John Pennekamp State Park offers snorkeling tours that will show you the colorful wonders of the reef.

Before making your way to Key West, stop at Robbie’s to not only eat but feed the Tarpon off the pier and maybe see a shark. Then as you make your way down south, why not stop at the Florida Keys Brewing Company in Islamorada.

Along this drive, you will find one of the best beaches in the world at Bahia Honda State Park located on Marathon Key. The endless expanse of pearly white sand and turquoise waters and a little hike on one of the original bridges constructed from Miami to Key West is the perfect way to relax before getting to the party in Key West.

Finally, in Key West, you can have a slice of the famous Key Lime Pie, take a picture at the southernmost point of the continental USA, and party on Duval Street because you have completed this epic east coast USA road trip.

If you are feeling really adventurous you could also try and check out the Everglades, which is just a short detour off of Route 1 when leaving Miami.  

Driving Distance

Recommended trip length.

You can drive from Miami to Key West in about 4 hours if you go straight through. With a couple of days to explore, you’ll be able to see plenty of sights along the way, making this an excellent weekend road trip!

St. Augustine to Charleston Road Trip

For a mix of relaxing coastal vibes and delightful southern charm, plan an east coast USA road trip leading from St. Augustine, Florida to Charleston, South Carolina !

This road trip has its fair share of beaches and natural beauty, while also covering some of the best East Coast cities to visit .

Start your trip in St. Augustine, which happens to be the oldest city in the USA: founded by the Spanish in 1565, St. Augustine is packed with history. 

Be sure not to miss visiting the Castillo de San Marcos for a rare chance to visit a castle in the USA, the Lightner Museum, and the St. Augustine Lighthouse. Once you’ve had your fill of history for the day, kick back and enjoy some of Florida’s legendary beaches.

From St. Augustine, head to Savannah to admire what is arguably the most beautiful city in the south.

Stroll through the 22 town squares, wander down famous Jones Street to peek at one of the most beautiful streets in the USA, visit Forsyth Park, tour some house museums, hit up City Market, and, if you’re up for a scare, head out on a ghost tour.

After visiting Savannah and possibly stopping at nearby Tybee Island for a little more beach time, make your way to Charleston for the final stop on this east coast USA road trip.

In Charleston, be sure to snap photos at the famous Rainbow Row and on Folly Beach, visit Fort Sumter, check out the Charleston City Market, and visit the stunning 1500-year-old Angel Tree.

Those interested in military history will also enjoy a visit to Patriot’s Point, and food lovers can’t go wrong with a food tour in order to taste some of the best Lowcountry food around.

We suggest spending at least 5 days on this east coast road trip, but by slowing down and potentially adding other side stops like Tybee Island or Hilton Head, you could easily make this into a 7-10 day vacation!

Blue Ridge Parkway

From Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Green Global Travel

One of America’s most iconic road trips, the Blue Ridge Parkway runs nearly 500 miles through North Carolina and Virginia, connecting the Great Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Parks .

Construction of the route began back in 1935, and it has been the United States National Park System’s most visited attraction almost every year since the mid-1940s.

The route begins on U.S. Route 441 at Oconaluftee in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, near Cherokee, North Carolina. It ends at the southern entrance to Shenandoah National Park in Virginia at Rockfish Gap. 

Once you take this jaw-droppingly beautiful drive for yourself, you’ll see why. With stunning scenery, historic landmarks, and thousands of different wildlife species along the way (birds, bears, deer, and more), the Blue Ridge Parkway offers a taste of unspoiled Americana at its finest. 

There are way too many highlights of this route to adequately summarize here, but I’d definitely recommend spending a few days in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and exploring the area in and around Asheville.

Heading north, there are great hiking and fishing in both the Pisgah and Cherokee National Forests, as well as charming little mountain towns such as Boone and Blowing Rock, NC.

Virginia’s must-sees include Roanoke, George Washington & Jefferson National Forest, and of course Shenandoah National Park. 

Our favorite time to explore this region is autumn. The crowds are smaller, the weather is cooler, and the stunning color of the leaves turn the Blue Ridge Mountain scenery into something magical.

We suggest exploring the Blue Ridge Parkway over 3-5 days.

The Adirondacks Road Trip

From Jim of Uncovering New York

The Adirondack Mountains of northern New York are one of the most beautiful and remote regions of the east coast of the United States. While there are faster routes between Lake George and Lake Placid, this road trip route will take you through some of the region’s most beautiful small towns and past some of its best attractions.

Start in Lake George. While here, consider taking a boat cruise on the Minne Ha Ha and touring Fort William Henry.

From here, head north out of town on Route 9 before picking up NY-28 south and then NY-8 south.

Route 8 passes along the southern reaches of the Adirondack Park and past many great waterfalls and hiking trails. One to make sure not to miss is the 70-foot Auger Falls. Shortly after Auger Falls, take NY-30 north, making sure not to miss the beautiful shores of Indian Lake and the hike to Ok Slip Falls.

In the town of Blue Mountain Lake, the  Adirondack Experience  is a can’t-miss museum that tells the story of the Adirondack Park and people that call it home. This is a truly fantastic museum and is worth saving a few hours to experience. While in town, you can also explore local art at the Adirondack Lakes Center for the Arts.

Continue on the journey enjoying the incredible scenery of the Adirondacks as you pass by spots like Long Lake and Tupper Lake. Veer off onto NY-3 east for your final stop for the evening in Saranac Lake, New York.

The next day, explore the history of this community at the Saranac Laboratory Museum and learn how the community was built by tuberculous patients. You can also visit the former home of author Robert Louis Stevenson.

Finally, take NY-86 the short distance to Lake Placid, home to two Winter Olympics. While in town, tour the Lake Placid Olympic Museum, High Falls Gorge, and enjoy shopping in this quaint town. End your weekend road trip with a climb up Cobble Hill for great views of Lake Placid.

While you certainly spend a full week or even longer exploring this route and the communities along it, this is a great two-day road trip that’s perfect for any nature lover.

New Hampshire Road Trip

From Micki of The Barefoot Nomad

New Hampshire’s fiery fall foliage, mountain passes, serene lakes, and rugged coastline make for a picturesque east coast USA road trip. The state is a dream destination for nature lovers, with ample opportunities for hiking, kayaking, swimming, and outdoor winter sports. 

One of the state’s highlights is the charming seaside town of Portsmouth, where you can enjoy craft ale and fresh seafood among jewel-box colonial buildings.

Odiorne State Park is a short 10-minute drive from downtown Portsmouth, and home to rugged coastal views, the educational Seacoast Science Center, and the remains of Fort Dearborn.

From Portsmouth, make your way to the Kancamagus Highway, which is rightly touted as one of the USA’s most scenic drives. The Kancamagus twists through the White Mountains and offers stunning views of fall foliage and plenty of hiking and camping.

From the Kancamagus, continue on to Franconia State Park to see the Flume Gorge, a natural gorge that runs for about 800 feet at the foot of Mount Liberty. The 1886 Pemigewasset covered bridge at Franconia Notch State Park is well worth a stop. 

From there, it’s a short 10-minute drive from the Flume Gorge to the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, an 80-passenger cable car that reaches the 4,080-foot summit of Cannon Mountain. There’s a short hiking trail at the summit that offers views of the mountains of New Hampshire , New York, Vermont, Maine and even the Canadian province of Quebec.

Next up, a stop at idyllic Lake Winnipesaukee offers a change from the mountains. While some areas around the lake (like Weirs Beach in Laconia) are packed with tourists in summer, Winnipesaukee’s 183 miles of coastline, and more than 300 islands means that secluded spots aren’t hard to find.

While you can take this trip in any season, many mountain passes, like the Kancamagus Highway, are closed during heavy snowfalls. However, winter is a great time to try snowshoeing or skiing at any of the state’s 19 ski resorts. In autumn, North Conway, Kancamagus Highway, and Franconia boast incredible fall foliage. 

Start and end this trip by flying into Boston, Massachusetts, heading north through Portsmouth, Odiorne State Park, Kancamagus Highway, Franconia State Park, Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, Lake Winnipesaukee, and ending your loop in Boston.

Four days is plenty for this drive, though you’ll have to limit your time in a few locations. You’ll be on the road for about 7 and a half hours during this east coast road trip.

Portland to Bar Harbor Road Trip

From Kaisa of Glam Granola Travel

The Maine stretch of US-1, also known as the Coastal Highway, is a classic New England-style east coast road trip. While you could drive this iconic seaside road in a day, there are so many things to do in Portland , Acadia, and everywhere in between, it’s best appreciated leisurely over several days. You can start at either end, but starting in Portland and heading north provides increasingly beautiful scenery. There are plenty of campsites and B&Bs along the way in Maine’s many state parks and harbor towns. 

Portland is famous for potato donuts, breweries, and quirky local charm. Allagash and Bissell Brothers are two award-winning breweries; the former often has food trucks, while the latter shares space with a great local café. The Old Port area near the water is full of cool shops, including one of the best Portland donut shops The Holy Donut. A picnic in the Eastern Promenade park overlooking the water is a particularly peaceful way to spend the afternoon. 

Heading north of Portland, one encounters more and more of what Maine does best—natural beauty and seafood. There are three unique state parks to choose from on this route, from south to north: Popham Beach State Park (Phippsburg), Camden Hills State Park (Cambden), and Moose Point State Park (Searsport).

Popham Beach State Park is known for its perfect sandy beach, rare along Maine’s rocky coastline, and picturesque lighthouses. Camden Hills’ main attraction is the panoramic view of Camden and the ocean from Mt. Megunticook, a moderate day hike. Moose Point has awesome tide pools, which are  so  much fun to explore and observe critters in.

In Wicasset, between Popham Beach and Camden Hills, Red’s Eats makes one of New England’s most delicious lobster rolls. For a state famous for its lobster rolls, being considered among the best is a massive accomplishment. 

Finally, end this east coast USA road trip in Acadia National Park.

Located next to Bar Harbor on Bar Island, it’s a true gem of the National Park system and there is no other park like it. Whale watching trips leave from Bar Harbor every day during the high season and are a definite must-see!

The hiking in Acadia is incredible, as well—don’t miss the Beehive, a short, thrilling (but still family-friendly) climb up rocky cliffs complete with metal bars and manmade bridges between the rocks. The view at the top, of the Atlantic Ocean, harbor, and endless lush hills, is New England at its finest.

While you can technically complete this US road trip route in a day, we suggest taking a couple of days to savor the sights along the way.

New England Road Trip Loop

From Danielle of Wanderlust While Working

Whether you’re looking for majestic mountains, breathtaking coastal views, photogenic lighthouses, or the excitement of a big city, New England has it all.

For the perfect northeast USA road trip, take an epic road trip through New England starting and ending in Boston.

Enjoy exploring Boston via the Freedom Trail and take in some of America’s oldest historical sites along the 3.5-mile route.

Next, drive southwest to the coast of Newport, RI, home of the extravagant Newport Mansions. After exploring Newport for a day, continue to follow the coast to the quaint seaside town of Mystic, CT, home of historic Mystic Seaport.

Next, cut across Western Massachusetts to the lush Green Mountains in Vermont with a stop in Burlington bordering the beautiful Lake Champlain. Spend the day wandering this cute college town and imbibing in one of the many breweries (Vermont has the largest number of breweries per capita of any state!).

From here, head east through the White Mountains of New Hampshire, home to Mount Washington, the tallest mountain on the East Coast. The last major stop of the loop is Maine’s Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor, ME. See all Acadia has to offer whether it’s hiking, biking the famous carriage roads, or exploring the coast by boat for a few days before returning to Boston via Portland, ME.

While there is plenty to do in New England any time of year, visit in summer for the best weather and to enjoy the coastal beaches or in fall for a tour through New England’s famous fall foliage. Along the way don’t forget to try some of the food New England is famous for, including Maine lobsters and New England clam chowder!

1,100 miles

We recommend taking about 10 full days to road trip New England in depth.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

8 thoughts on “7 Epic East Coast USA Road Trip Routes”

In 2007 we drove part of one of your routes from Savannah (where we spent three nights) to Charleston (where we also spent a night). I had just read “Midnight In The garden of Good and Evil” (John Berendts) which brought extra meaning to Savannah’s sights. It was such a pretty city that allegedly in 1866 General Sherman refused to torch it as had been his custom in other towns.

On Tybee Island we had a dellicious crab meal at The Crab Shack. Hopefully it’s still there. I loved their novel idea of having a hole in the centre of the table where the food scraps are simply dropped where they fall into a bin.

On the way to Charleston, Beaufort is also a pleasant stop with a delicious chocolate shop and pretty houses.

The ferry to Fort Sumter IMO is a must for history buffs being where the first shots of the American Civil War were fired.

Love that part of the country! Savannah is one of our favorites, I’d like to keep going back forever.

Hi, Great blog packed with fantastic ideas for my as yet unplanned US road trips whenever we get back to a new normal for travelling. I’m thinking of combining my chosen road trips with some of the best rail journeys and thought about starting in New York across to San Francisco by Amtrak then drive to my next train and so on. Have you ever done this to get around the US or do you have you any route suggestions? Also, is interchanging between road and rail achievable? I’m looking at staying for no less than two months my idea being to cover many miles by train being far cheaper than renting a car for the whole time. Many thanks. Kev

Hi Kev! Honestly, traveling by rail in the US is, generally speaking, very expensive and very inefficient. You can technically do it, but it’s usually much more about the story of crossing the US by train than the fact that it’s a good way to see the country.

You can combine driving and trains, but again, it would be pricey to do so, especially if you’re consistently dropping your rental cars off at a different location than you pick them up at (many companies charge a fee for that).

That being said, 2 months exploring the US is an incredible trip and you can see a lot in that time!

Love all the pictures and descriptions of the places you have travelled! Truly gives great inspiration to see the World. Our little family tries to travel a couple of times per year but would love to take a first time RV trip from Eastern NC to destination unknown between Christmas and New Year Day. Wide open question, but any suggestions for a 5 day adventure?

That’s great to hear, thanks Brian! I’m actually typing this comment back to you from NC myself–we’re in town visiting my Mom and Grammy, who both live in the Raleigh area.

Five days from Eastern NC in an RV… the options are pretty limitless! My first thought is St. Augustine/Savannah/Charleston–a great trifecta with limited driving. The Outer Banks Scenic Byway, perhaps with a dip north into Virginia and the Chincoteague area (especially if any of your kids are horse fans) may feel close to home but could also be an amazing trip–no swimming, of course, but I have to say I love the wide open spaces of NC beaches in the winter (and parking will be much easier too–just be sure to check for seasonal ferry and RV park closures).

The mountains (GSMNP followed by Shenandoah, with a ride up the Blue Ridge Parkway along the way) is of course another great option, but I’d watch the weather carefully before committing to that one in December. If you do head that way, the Biltmore should still have its Christmas decor up!

With 5 days and it being your first time in an RV, I’d hesitate to include any of the large eastern seaboard cities or go much further afield, though of course you can if you’re determined to hit the ground running!

Love your ideas for putting together some touring routes. We need help – we will be arriving in Raleigh area for a wedding in August so expecting to do some travel prior in July. Looking for road trip ideas, my husband has very limited walking capacity and will not go near a city! Will we see much doing the Blue Ridge Parkway without hiking? Also the Shenandoah Forest? And I think Id like to see some American beaches!.

Some ideas to set us off would be great thankyou.

Thanks so much, Karen! My mom and Grammy both live in Raleigh and I’ve been visiting since I was a kid, so those are stomping grounds I’m very familiar with. :-)

American national parks are generally very well set-up from an accessibility standpoint, and that includes Great Smoky Mountain, Shenandoah, and Blue Ridge Parkway (not technically a national park in its own right, but mostly part of the system). Not all of the parks will be accessible, of course, but scenic drives in the US virtually always have plenty of easy spots to pull off on and appreciate the views. Skyline Drive will be a hit for you guys, I suspect!

Definitely stop by the visitor’s center in each park and pick up maps–they’ll have clear markings of pull-off spots and also how much walking is involved in them, with the answer sometimes being little to none, plus the difficulty level, distance, and accessibility access of any trails.

National parks also tend to have at least one short wheelchair accessible trail that is paved, often found near the visitor’s center.

Beach wise, you’ll be close to North Carolina’s Outer Banks, which are very popular and beautiful. Kitty Hawk (home of the Wright Brother’s first flight) and surrounding towns might be a great fit. Other options include the Crystal Coast (a bit further south and my stomping grounds), or heading north into Virginia and the Chincoteague area (as in Misty of Chincoteague, if you remember those books from childhood).

In all of those places, sandy/wild beaches with lots of waves, lighthouses, fishing piers, and (in some cases) wild horse spotting on the various islands they live on are all popular attractions.

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The Ultimate East Coast Beach Road Trip

Raymond Forbes, LLC

As summer unfurls in full force and road trips are trendier than ever, why not traverse the entire East Coast, making some of its most famous beaches your main stops? Start off in Miami before making your way through the Carolinas, the mid-Atlantic, and New England, stopping for swims in iconic beach regions like the Outer Banks, the Jersey Shore, the Hamptons, and Cape Cod along the way. From South Beach to Hilton Head to Asbury Park, this itinerary will have you experiencing some of the best beaches on the Eastern Seaboard.

Miami Beach, Florida

 YinYang/Getty Images

The vibrant city of Miami Beach , which is actually a narrow island near Miami, is known as one of the most iconic beach destinations in the U.S. Its most famous beach is indisputably South Beach , thanks to its preserved Art Deco buildings, vast swaths of sand, and vibrant nightlife. Swanky bars, restaurants, hotels, and boutiques line the shoreline, and a boardwalk spans the entire length of the beach. Recommended beachfront hotels include the eco-friendly 1 Hotel South Beach, the artsy Faena, and the historic Delano, a prime Art Deco example. Grab a bite at Joe’s Stone Crab, Stiltsville Fish Bar, Taquiza, or the Time Out Market food hall. For a late-night cocktail, stop by Bar One or the Regent Cocktail Bar, and for old school vibes, Mac’s Club Deuce will satisfy.

Beyond the Beach

Be sure to eat your way through Little Havana , the area where many Cuban immigrants make their home, and Little Haiti , where many Haitian immigrants live; see the Wynwood mural walls and art galleries (and get some jerk chicken at Palatino Jamaican Restaurant while you’re there); and stroll through the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens on Biscayne Bay.

St. Augustine, Florida

 SeanPavonePhoto/Getty Images

About 4.5 hours north of Miami lies St. Augustine , the oldest inhabited city settled by Europeans in the United States. Founded in 1565 by Spanish settlers, St. Augustine is full of history. But it also happens to have 42 miles of pristine beaches, including St. Augustine Beach, with its picturesque fishing pier. Eat at St. Augustine's oceanfront restaurants like Salt Life Food Shack and Sunset Grille, and there are accommodations for all budgets , from camping at the St. Augustine Beach KOA to condo and vacation home rentals to the luxury Casa Monica Resort & Spa, part of Marriott's Autograph Collection.

History lovers will have a blast here, and the Castillo de San Marcos fort and Fort Matanzas are must-sees. You can also stop by Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth and the historic 1874 St. Augustine Lighthouse.

St. Simons Island, Georgia

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After driving north for about an hour and 15 minutes, you’ll cross into Georgia . Just before you reach St. Simons Island, about an hour later, make a stop at Jekyll Island , which is home to one of the most picturesque driftwood-filled beaches in the country. Both islands are part of the Golden Isles of Georgia, just off the mainland and accessible by causeway. Picture moss-covered live oaks arching over roadways, rolling golf courses, charming Southern villages, and of course, long stretches of sand and sea—East Beach is a must—and you’ll have a good idea of SSI. To the east and across another causeway is Sea Island , which is a resort with 5 miles of private beach, a beach club, tennis center, yacht club, three championship golf courses, and multiple accommodation options, making it a great place to spend the night.

Explore the island via bicycle by following the St. Simons Island Trail System, and rent a kayak to discover the rest of the Golden Isles. If you’re a history buff check out the Bloody Marsh Battle Site, the circa 1872 St. Simons Island Lighthouse, and arrange for a historical tour of the Gullah and Geechee communities through the St. Simons African American Heritage Coalition .

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina

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In about two hours, you’ll arrive at the South Carolina barrier island, Hilton Head , which is about 30 miles northeast of Savannah. Even though it’s the state’s largest barrier island , it’s only 5 miles wide and 12 miles long, and most people ride bikes to get around—the island has an extensive bike path network. Be sure to catch some rays at the popular Coligny Park Beach, or if you like a quiet scene, try Alder Lane or Burkes Beach. There are plenty of large resorts like Omni Hilton Head Oceanfront Resort and the Westin Hilton Head Island Resort & Spa, but if you prefer something quieter, a vacation rental house is probably your best bet.

Learn about South Carolina’s lowcountry and gullah history and culture at the Coastal Discovery Museum and enjoy the area’s natural beauty at the Pinckney Island National Wildlife Refuge and Sea Pines Forest Preserve. Later, chow down on authentic gullah cuisine at one of the two Ruby Lee’s locations, or enjoy seafood at Skull Creek Boathouse.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

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Just before you cross into North Carolina, you’ll arrive in Myrtle Beach , one of South Carolina ’s most popular and crowded beaches. While it has plenty of tackier attractions like water and amusement parks, chain restaurants, and shopping malls, it’s also home to 60 miles of gorgeous beach, known as the Grand Strand. Check out Surfside and its pier for a family-friendly stretch, the Golden Mile for a hotel-free zone, or hit the sand near 82nd Avenue for the gay beach. To save money on pricey resorts, book a campsite at Myrtle Beach State Park for excellent beach access or rent a house .

Discover the salt marsh ecosystem via kayak or rent Hobie Cat sailboats. Walk down the Murrells Inlet Marsh Walk, stopping to hear live music and sip drinks along the way or stroll down the lively Myrtle Beach Boardwalk. And save room for some authentic barbecue at True BBQ , owned by locals Joseph and Sheila Evans.

Kitty Hawk, North Carolina

North Carolina’s Outer Banks is home to some of the state’s best beaches , complete with impressive dunes, wild horses, and epic waves. Made up of several barrier islands that jut off the coast, the Outer Banks has several towns worth checking out, but Kitty Hawk is a favorite—and it’s the closest town to the Wright Memorial Bridge that you’ll need to cross from the mainland. The beaches of the Outer Banks are known for being low-key, with few beachfront activities, hotels, and restaurants. Instead, the focus is on enjoying the miles of sand and ocean. There are a handful of hotels in Kitty Hawk, but renting a vacation home is the more popular option here.

If you like to hike, head to the Kitty Hawk Woods Coastal Reserve or climb to the top of the massive sand dunes at Jockey Ridge State Park—you can even go hang gliding there. See the site of the Wight Brothers’ famous first flight at the Wright Brothers National Memorial and learn about the Lost Colony of Roanoke Island through a live reenactment.

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

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It’s a five hour stretch to Delaware, but when you arrive in Rehoboth or one of its neighboring beach towns like the quiet Bethany or party central Dewey, it will be well worth it. The beaches are often crowded, but if you manage to get away from the bustling boardwalk, things get calmer. Rehoboth Beach is known for being LGBTQ-friendly, and it also caters to families. There’s a mix of accommodation options, from chain hotels to vacation rental homes of all sizes to inns and guesthouses, many of which are gay- and lesbian-owned .

The Rehoboth boardwalk is full of local favorites like amusement park and arcade Funland, which has been around since 1962; Candy Kitchen for sweets and ice cream; Thrasher’s for freshly fried French Fries, and Grotto Pizza, which has a pizza style all its own thanks to its iconic swirl of sauce on top. And of course, the area’s famous Maryland blue crabs abound at tons of seafood spots. On a rainy day, check out the nearby outlets for shopping, or go on a tour of the Dogfish Head Brewery , which includes a tasting of several brews of your choice.

Asbury Park, New Jersey

An East Coast beach trip wouldn’t be complete without a stop on the notorious Jersey Shore , and Asbury Park is a classic. While the beach itself isn’t necessarily the nicest one you’ll come across on this road trip, it’s one of the most fun cities, with a bustling boardwalk, plenty of tasty restaurants, and burgeoning art scene. If you’re keen to splurge, book a stay at the Asbury Ocean Club, an imposing highrise that opened in 2019 with a sophisticated design, stunning pool deck, and uninterrupted beach views. For a little more funk, The Asbury hotel has a bustling rooftop bar, music venue, and a bowling alley for endless entertainment.

Forever intertwined with Bruce Springsteen, the boardwalk and town have several live music venues (beyond the famous Stone Pony), and it’s a popular tour stop for many musicians. Stroll along Cookman Avenue for boutique shopping (check out Glide Surf Co., Holdfast Records, Antique Emporium, and Rebel Supply Co.) and excellent dining—try Brickwall Tavern, Taka, or Ada’s Gojjo a few blocks away.

Amagansett, New York

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The Hamptons are a must for anyone determined to see the country’s best beaches, and Amagansett is quintessential Hamptons. A quaint village, pristine shoreline, and discretion are the hallmarks of any Hamptons town, and Amagansett more than delivers. It’s also located adjacent to Montauk , the easternmost point in New York State, as well as close to Southampton, East Hampton, and Bridgehampton, offering access to all the area’s famous towns but with a more low-key vibe. Locals love Indian Wells Beach, but you’ll need to either bike or walk there if you can’t procure a parking permit. Atlantic Beach is usually more crowded because it offers daily parking for $25, and it also has the Beach Hut, where you can get snacks and sandwiches. If you can’t find a rental house , the Roundtree hotel opened in 2020 with individual cottages as well as rooms and suites.

Amagansett is small, so there’s not a ton to see and do besides relaxing on the beach, but a visit to the Amagansett Square is worthwhile. Shops and restaurants surround the impeccably landscaped lawn in the center; get lunch from the original Hampton Chutney or Wolffer Kitchen, coffee from Jack’s Stir Brew, or picnic materials from Cavaniola’s Gourmet Cheese. The Hamptons are also known for their extensive farmland, so if you see a roadside stand, stop for some fresh produce—Balsam Farm Stand, Amber Waves Farm Market, and the weekend Amagansett Farmers Market are all excellent options. Driving east to Montauk is worth the trip; head to Montauk Point State Park and peep its famous red and white lighthouse .

Newport, Rhode Island

 Marianne Campolongo/Getty Images

Newport is known for its Gilded Age mansions , sailing, and sweeping New England beaches. While walking its famous Cliff Walk will give you epic views of the ocean, if you want to settle in for a day at the beach you’ll have plenty of options. Popular Easton’s Beach (also known as First Beach) is at the start of the Cliff Walk, while Gooseberry Beach is in a cove along tony Ocean Drive and usually has calm water. There’s also a small beach inside Fort Adams State Park. Newport has plenty of high-end boutique hotels (try Castle Hill Inn for a splurge), but Gurney’s Newport Resort & Marina , a large resort on its own island, is perfect for families. For something more design-forward, The Wayfinder is a just-opened independent hotel that highlights local makers.

Touring some of Newport’s famous mansions is perfect on a rainy day; there’s the Vanderbilt’s the Breakers, Rosecliff, Marble House, and many others that are open to the public. Many contend that the best way to see Newport is from a boat along the Narragansett Bay and there are plenty of sailboat tours and charters to choose from. For your lobster roll fix, try Belle’s Cafe in the shipyard or get a classic chowder from the Black Pearl on Bannister’s Wharf. But if you need a break from fish, head to Mission for classic hamburgers, hot dogs, and the best French fries in town.

Nantucket, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is quintessential New England beach, and Nantucket offers a taste of island living along with it. While you must take a ferry to Nantucket (cars are allowed) since it’s an island, there are plenty of beaches for everyone: Children’s Beach and Jetties Beach are perfect for those with littles, Brant Point is walkable from town, and if you want big waves check out Surfside or Cisco. If you’re looking for a party scene, Nobadeer is popular with the college set, or for quieter beaches, try Sconset and Great Point on the eastern side of the island. Be prepared to spend a pretty penny to spend the night here, and camping is not allowed on Nantucket. The White Elephant Nantucket , The Wauwinet , and the Nantucket Hotel & Resort are larger luxury options. At the same time, Greydon House , Jared Coffin House , Hotel Pippa , and 76 Main are all quintessential New England guesthouses.

Sailing is a Nantucket pastime, but if you prefer to stay on land, a visit to the Whaling Museum is a must for learning about the history of the island. Stroll the cobblestone streets and admire the classic cedar shingled buildings that line them. Have a seasonally focused dinner at Straight Wharf restaurant or the Provisions sandwich shop from the same owners. Head to the Juice Bar for ice cream—best eaten inside one of their freshly made waffle cones.

Ogunquit, Maine

The farther north you go, the colder the Atlantic gets, making Ogunquit , on Maine ’s southern coast, the perfect final stop. The white sand at Main Beach makes it a favorite, and there are amenities like restrooms, umbrella rentals, and plenty of outdoor restaurants. For a quieter experience, try Footbridge Beach, which is best accessed by walking across a footbridge (hence the name) that goes over the Ogunquit River. Wells Beach is a barrier beach that’s seven miles long, and there are amenities near the Mile Road parking lot. For an affordable stay, book a room at Juniper Hill Inn, the Milestone, or Studio East Motel.

Go for a walk along Marginal Way , a picture-perfect three-mile walking path with sweeping coastline views and a lighthouse that leads to the quant fishing village of Perkins Cove. For evening entertainment, catch a show at the famous Ogunquit Playhouse summer theater or check out the gay nightlife. While in Maine, make sure to eat some lobster —Lobster Shack and Ogunquit Lobster Pound are both classics.

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Driving from New York to Florida, East Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary + Guide

Driving from New York to Florida, East Coast Road Trip Itinerary + Guide

Table of Contents

Have you ever driven from New York to Florida? I’ve actually been the passenger for this drive countless times as a kid. I can remember sitting in the backseat of a mini van for the long drive because my parents didn’t want to pay for 7 people to fly. However, I’m also no stranger to a good ol’ East Coast Road Trip as an adult!

I’ve driven from New York to Florida,  NYC to LA, done a New England road trip as well as a New York State and a Western USA  Road Trip, so you could say road trips are definitely my preferred method of travel. I just love the freedom it gives you and how much more you’re able to see.

New York to Florida Drive, How long is the Trip?

Fastest route.

• Quickest time : 16 hours – 2 days
• Distance from NYC to Jacksonville, FL is just under 1000 miles.
• Distance from NYC to Miami is about 1300 miles.

Road Trip Route

• Make it as long as you want!
• Distance from New York to Florida on my suggest Road Trip Itinerary comes to about 2200 miles.

Coastal Vs. Inland

You can stick to the coast most of the way or dip in to see some mountains. The Blue Ridge Parkway is an epic road to drive, even if you only do a small section, but it will add on time and mileage.

Is there a good Halfway Stop?

It depends where in Florida is your final destination, but a good place to stop is either Charleston or Savannah. They’re a little further than halfway, but both are beautiful, walkable cities with plenty to do.

Fort Clinch State Park

How do I plan an East Coast Road Trip?

First, decide on your priorities :.

• How much time do you have?
• Are you looking to take the scenic route or the most efficient route?  
• Are there certain locations you absolutely need to see?
• Are you looking to camp or stay in hotels?
• Do you want to do a one way drive or round trip? (take into account car rental one way fees)
• Is trying the local cuisine/restaurants a top priority?
• Do you want to spend most of your time on the beach?

Decide on your budget and make adjustments.

• Do you really want to see Charleston and Savannah, but don’t think you can afford both cities? These two Southern cities have quite a few similarities, but Charleston is definitely the more expensive one. Cutting it out could be your best option.
• Factor in for tolls, gas, food and drinks, activities, accommodation.
• Deciding how much you want to spend per day and week is a good way to keep to a budget. Obviously, you will spend alot more in NYC than you will in Savannah.

Choose your road trip companions wisely.

I did my East Coast road trip with my husband Si, one of his friends and my best friend from high school. We had all hung as a group a couple times before, but it was a bit of a leap to decide to do almost 4 weeks of traveling together. Luckily it worked out pretty well. Si’s friend happens to be a chef and cooked us wonderful meals in our AirBnbs, my friend had a car so we didn’t have to rent one and she also preferred driving which meant I hardly had to!

That being said, being in close proximity with people, even your closest friends, can put pressure on the relationship, so make sure everyone is up for the challenge.

If you can manage to find 3 people you’re willing to share a room with, your costs will be cut tremendously!

Map out your route and make an Itinerary.

I’d suggest making a Google Doc with your companions so everyone can add things they want to do and see. Make sure each of you are clear about your absolute must-dos, but be ready to compromise.

New York to Florida East Coast Road Trip Tips

• Don’t plan in too many 1 night stints, unless you’re tight for time. In my opinion, it’s better to visit less places so you can actually fully see that place then try to fit in too many stops.
• Have a plan, but leave room for spontaneity. Booking into too much will leave you tired and overwhelmed.
• Never leave yourself with too little gas. On some stretches of road the rest stops are few and far between.
• Have your vehicle checked beforehand.
• Have all car documents with you.
• Download Roadtrippers app.

Where Can I rent a Car, Campervan or RV from in New York City?

• Rentalcars.com
• Escape Campervans – I used this company on my cross country road trip a few years ago. It was so convenient having a mini kitchen and bed on the road! We mainly slept at RV campgrounds or state parks on that trip. Their office is located in New Jersey, which you can get to on the train from Manhattan.
• Wayward Campers
• El Monte RV Rentals
• VroomVroomVroom

When is the best time to do an East Coast Road Trip?

In my opinion the best month to do an East coast road trip or to drive from New York to Florida is in June . Since summer solstice is between June 20 and 22 you’ll end up getting the maximum amount of day light which allows you to fit much more into each day.

The weather will be pleasant when you start in New York (highs around 80 and lows around 65) and will heat up the further south you get. Since you’re likely to be stopping at various beach destinations you can cool off by the water!

Overall Trip Budget Breakdown

This will vastly depend on current gas prices. When I drove from New York to Florida gas was around $2 per gallon. I’ve also done road trips when gas was closer to $4 per gallon and it makes a big difference.

Make sure to have cash on you for tolls unless you have EZpass which will work up until South Carolina.

3. Accommodation

• Camp Grounds $
• RV Parks $$
• Resorts $$$

4. Food + Drink

Keep costs low for food and drink by having a cooler in your car with cold drinks and some snacks. Restaurants and eating out can add up very quickly, so if you’re on a budget it may be worth getting an AIRbnb and cooking a good portion of your meals there.

5. Activities

You can’t do everything everything everywhere. Do some research and do what you want! Don’t force yourself to go to a museum if you don’t like museums just because it’s on the top things to do list.

• Water sports

New York to Florida Road Trip Stops Map

4 Week East Coast Road Trip Itinerary Stops

These are my top recommended stops for an East Coast Road Trip that starts in New York and ends in Florida.  If you make all of these stops you will only drive more than 5 hours at a time once, which I feel breaks up the trip perfectly. This itinerary is designed as a one way trip, but you can certainly curtail it to meet your requirements.

• NYC (4 nights)
•   Montauk / The Hamptons? (2)
• Asbury Park, NJ (2) – Cape May Ferry
• Rehoboth Beach, Delaware (2)
• Norfolk/VB, Virginia (1)
• Blue Ridge Parkway/Asheville, NC (3)
• Hilton Head, South Carolina (2)
• Charleston , SC (3)
• Savannah, Georgia (2)
• Amelia Island , Florida (3)
• Miami, FL (3)
• Florida Keys (4)

New York to Florida Road Trip Itinerary

Stop 1.  new york city (3-4 nights).

New York City is where you can start off on the adventure. It’s where my family is originally from and where I now live. This will be the the most expensive location on your trip as well as one of the most interesting and diverse!

You don’t need a car in New York so if you are renting one, wait until you’re on your way out.

While you’re in NYC you’ll want to to try Pizza (Artichoke, Prince St., Joe’s), Bagels ( Ess-a-bagel, Russ+Daughters), and Burgers ( Emmy Squared, Raoul’s, Shake Shack), and Pastrami ( Katz Deli.

I’ve created a quick itinerary below, but you can also read my full guide to 4 days in New York .

Day 1 Uptown + Times Square 

• Central Park – Loeb Boat House, Bethsheda Fountain, Bow Bridge,  Alice + Wonderland. Enter on East 72nd St. (Limited Food options)
• The Met, Natural History Museum 
• Times Square + Broadway Show

Day 2 Midtown Manhattan

• Walking Tour 
• Radio City/ Rockefeller Center/Grand Central/ Empire State Building/ Madison Square Park
• Sports Game

Day 3 Lower Manhattan

• Financial District – Oculus, 9/11 Memorial, One World Trade Center, Wall Street
• Statue of Liberty ferry from Battery park
• Seaport District – shopping, food, experiences 
• Happy Hour Drinks – Stone Street, Dead Rabbit

Day 4 Downtown + Brooklyn 

• Chelsea – Chelsea Market + Highline
• West Village/ Soho / Chinatown
• Brooklyn Bridge – Walk to BK take 1 hr.
• Dumbo – Time Out Market, Washington St., Skyline View
• Williamsburg – Hipster neighborhood, vintage shopping, trendy restaurants

Unique Hotels in NYC:

• 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
• Williamsburg Hotel

Stop 2. Montauk, NY (2 nights)

Montauk is on the South Fork of Long island and  is often referred to as “The End.”  It’s located at the very tip of Long Island peninsula in the Hamptons.  Long Island lies east of NYC and is essentially an extension of the same land mass that the burrows of Queens and Brooklyn are on.

Montauk is an old surfing and fishing town turned trendy by New Yorkers flocking here in the Summer months. It’s a good place to chill out after a crazy few days in NYC, while still getting that fun vibe.

TOP TIP – It’s usually 10 degrees cooler out in Montauk than it is in NYC!

Top Things to Do

• Visit the Montauk Lighthouse
• Walk around Montauk’s Village.
• Hike at Camp Hero State Park.
• Sunbathe at Kirk Park Beach.
• Go for a surf.
• Go to Gurney’s for lunch then head down to the beach club.

Hotels in Montauk:

• Daunt’s Albatross Motel
• Breaker’s Montauk
• Gurney’s Resort

Stop 3. Asbury Park, NJ (2 nights) 

Asbury Park is a quirky, retro beach town with a cool boardwalk and a long history in the music scene . It’s a known hub for rock and roll musicians, artists and surfers alike.

Things to Do

• See a show at the legendary Stone Pony venue.
• Watch the surfers at the beach.
• Walk on the Asbury Park Boardwalk.
• Play games while you drink at Johnny Mac’s House of Spirits.
• Embrace the art scene and check out the Wooden Walls mural project.

Hotels in Asbury Park

• Asbury Ocean Club

Cape May-Lewes Ferry

Book a spot ahead on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry to get you from New Jersey to Delaware . You can sit back and relax as you enjoy the water view. There’s even a bar on the top floor if some of the passengers want to drink!

Stop 4. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware (2 nights)

Rehoboth Beach has been known as a vacation destination historically for people coming from Washington D.C. The retro beach town now hosts visitors originating from various locations across the country primarily from Baltimore, Philly, NYC and D.C.

The town of Rehoboth is known for being an  iconic beach vacation town , having a welcoming community and large LGBT population. Poodle Beach is one of the most famous gay beaches in the U.S. Neighboring town of Dewey Beach is a bit of party scene and so much fun for a night out!

• Visit the Delaware Seashore State Park.
• Shop at the Tanger Outlets tax free!
• Rent a Bike and peddle around town.
• Have a beach day.
• Walk the Rehoboth Beach boardwalk.
• Watch live music and have drinks in Dewey Beach.

Hotels in Rehoboth Beach

• Bellmoor Inn and Spa
• Ocean Glass Inn
• Beach View Hotel

Stop 5. Norfolk/Virginia Beach (1 night)

Norfolk is located south of the Chesapeake Bay and is a naval hub.  It just so happens to be the world’s largest naval base and the location of the North American Headquarters for NATO.

Virginia Beach and Norfolk are only a 20 minute drive apart, so it’s easy to see both. Though I wasn’t too impressed with Virginia Beach there were a few good spots worth checking out.

Best Things to Do

• Take a tour of the Naval Base.
• Eat an incredible farm-to-table brunch at Commune.
• Have a cocktail at the 5 star Cavalier Hotel.
• Grab drinks at the The Shack, an outdoor oasis steps from the beach.

Hotels in Virginia Beach

• The Cavalier

Stop 6. Blue Ridge Parkway/Asheville (3 nights)

Asheville is a funky city with a hippy vibe in the Mountains of North Carolina. It sits amongst the Blue Ridge Mountains and is only 70 miles from the Smokey Mountains.

There are so many incredible outdoor activities and nature spots in this area, you could spend a lot more time here than 3 days. If you are an outdoor enthusiast you absolutely can not miss this stop!

• Admire Looking Glass Falls.
• Slide down Sliding Rock Falls.
• Tour the many breweries in Asheville.
• See a show at the Orange Peel.
• Hike Rough Ridge Trail.

Asheville Hotels

• Haywood Park Hotel
• Foundry Hotel

Stop 7. Hilton Head, South Carolina (2 nights)

Hilton Head is a top East Coast vacation destination . The resort town is 12 miles by 5 miles and many people like to get around by biking. Renting massive houses on the beach is what many vacationers do here, but there are other options available. We stayed at the Palerma Inn and Suites which was pretty affordable at the time.

Things to D0

• Rent bikes and enjoy the trails.
• Have a night out at Barmuda.
• Enjoy Hilton’s Head top beaches, Coligny Beach, Bradley Beach and Folly Field Beach

Hotels in Hilton Head Island

• Sonesta Resort
• Palmera Inn and Suites

Stop 8. Charleston, SC (3 nights)

Charleston is one of the most desired cities in the U.S. right now. It frequently gets attention for its historic downtown with cobblestone streets, vibrant food scene and gorgeous nearby beaches .

• Cool off at the Pineapple Fountain
• Walk down Rainbow Row
• Take a Sunset Boat Cruise.
• Have a beach day at Folly’s Beach or Sullivan’s Island.
• Enjoy a tasty brunch.

Hotels in Charleston

• Francis Marion Hotel
• Market Pavilion
• Palmer’s Pinckney Inn

Stop 9. Savannah, Georgia (2 nights)

Savannah is just a 45 minute drive form Hilton Head.  It’s  a stunning low country city with incredible history and culture . In the historic district open containers are allowed, which gives the Savannah a unique vibe. We had such a blast here! I actually think I might prefer it to Charleston…

• Visit Forsyth Park.
• Spend an evening listening to music on the Riverfront.
• Eat outside at Cha Bella.
• Go on a ghost tour or river cruise.
• Have brunch at Collins Quarter.

Hotels in Savannah

• Hampton Inn and Suites (Historic District)
• Perry Lane Hotel
• Kimpton Brice

Forsyth Park, Savannah

Stop 10. Amelia Island and Fernandina Beach, Florida (3 nights)

Amelia is known for having relatively uncrowded and pristine beaches and is located just over the Florida Georgia state line. It’s a low key family friendly destination with not too much going on (in a good way). A great location for a no frills family beach vacation, but with the option for exploring nature, learning some history or just listening to the waves.

The island was named after Princess Amelia, daughter of King George II of England and has a long standing European background. The island has has been under the reign of 8 different flags!

Amelia Island has a mix of second homes and full time residents with many of the homeowners hailing from Georgia and Florida.

• Sit back and relax on a river cruise and learn about the island’s pirate history.
• Enjoy the white sandy beaches.
• Visit Fort Clinch State Park.
• Ride horses on the beach.
• Drink at the oldest continuously running drinking establishment in Florida, The Palace Saloon!
• Try out old school games at Fernandina Beach Pinball Museum.

Hotels in Amelia Island

• Florida House Inn
• Elizabeth Point Lodge
• Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort

Stop 11. Miami, FL (3 nights)

Everyone needs to go to Miami at least once, right?! I feel like Miami is one of those places people either love or hate… and I’m one of the lovers! The beaches are gorgeous, the nightlife is buzzing and you’ve never seen anywhere so glamorous as South Beach!

• Visit Little Havana and see Domino Park.
• Take pictures at the murals in Wynwood.
• Stroll the gorgeous Vizcaya Museums and Gardens.
• Find the colorful lifeguard stands on South Beach.
• Window shop in the Design District.

Hotels in Miami

• Mr. C Miami Coconut Grove
• Freehand Miami
• The Plymouth South Beach

Stop 12. The Florida Keys (5 nights)

There are many things I loved about Key West and the other Keys. In addition to the obvious; blue water, delicious seafood and amazing resorts, it’s just got that vibe!

• Drive over the Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon Key
• Spend the Day in Downtown Key West.
• Go on a Sunset Sail.
• Snorkel over coral reefs.
• Sunbathe at Bahia Honda State Park.
• Eat plenty of seafood.
• Explore Dry Tortugas National Park.
• Tour the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum.

Hotels in the Florida Keys

• Ocean’s Edge Resort and Marina  (Key West)
• Gardens Hotel  (Key West)
• Sunset Keys Cottages  (Sunset Key)
• Cheeca Lodge & Spa  (Islamorada)

What to Pack for your Road Trip

Here is a quick list of some items you’ll want to have with you on your East Coast Road Trip. Full road trip packing guide coming soon!

• Packing Cubes
• Charging devices + portable charger
• Antibacterial wipes
• Reusable water bottle
• Trunk organizer
• Travel Neck Pillow + blanket
• First Aid Kit
• A good playlist

Other Ways to Get to Florida

If you want to cut to the chase and get to Florida from New York ASAP, you could fly or take the train instead!

• Time :  The train actually takes around the same amount of time as driving straight through would with only some mini breaks, but will less effort on your part!  (20 hours)
• Price : $130  depending on the time of year and when you buy your ticket.
• Time : About 3 hours
• Price : $250 depending on the time of year and when you buy your ticket.

Thinking about adding New England to your itinerary?

New England consists of six states, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Vermont. Here are some of the highlights for each. The best time to travel New England is in the fall as the leaves began to change colors and you’ll find all things autumn! But, it’s also beautiful in the summer months which will consist of beach going, hiking and eating outside at seafood shacks.

• Acadia National Park
• Portland Head Lighthouse
• Cadillac Mountain
• Smuggler’s Notch
• Lake Champlain

Massachusetts

•  Mayflower II and Plimoth Plantation
• Whale Watching

Rhode Island

• Newport Cliffs
• Newport Mansions

New Hampshire

• Mount Washington
• Flume Gorge
• Franconia Notch State Park

Connecticut

• Mystic Seaport
• Yale University

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About the author: lauren mcgill.

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This road trip looks so cool! I would love to do it myself! I love all the places you shared on the way down!

I visited Newyork & covered plenty of places, but there are a few places that I wasn’t aware of. I guess I will have to make another trip to check those places. Thank you for sharing.

Thanks so much for reading and hopefully you make it back soon!

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What Is the Best Florida East Coast Road Trip Itinerary?

Did you know that the state of Florida is a whopping 500 miles long? The Sunshine State’s unique size and shape make it one of the best states for a road trip. There’s so much to see along Florida’s Eastern shore! From the oldest city in America and The Space Coast to Disney World and tropical Key West, there’s something for everyone here. If you’re planning out a Florida East Coast road trip itinerary , make sure you include the exciting places we’ve listed below. Then, for more tips from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, locals, be sure to download our complimentary Vacation Guide !

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What to Include on Your Florida East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

The vibrant city of jacksonville.

One of the first Eastern Florida cities travelers encounter heading south on I-95 is Jacksonville . This vibrant urban spot is most known for its top-tier food, music, and craft beer scenes. However, Jacksonville also boasts a popular zoo, 20 miles of uncrowded beaches, and the largest urban park system in the country. The city of Jacksonville is 326 miles (about a 5-hour drive) north of Fort Lauderdale.

Historic St. Augustine

Ever wonder where to find the oldest city in the U.S.? It’s St. Augustine, Florida ! This small city is located 293 miles (less than four and a half hours) north of Fort Lauderdale. Here, you’ll discover 16th-Century structures with plenty of Spanish flair left over from Colonial times. Plus, this city is one of the most welcoming and diverse in Northeast Florida!

A Theme Park in Orlando

What’s the first place that comes to mind when you think of Florida? It’s more than likely Disney World or Universal Studios ! If you’ve never been to either of these monumental parks, a Florida East Coast road trip is the perfect way to make that first visit special! Orlando isn’t quite on the coast, but it’s a short drive away from the beaches of Florida’s Eastern shore. The city of Orlando is 218 miles Northwest of Fort Lauderdale (a 3-hour drive).

The Kennedy Space Center on Merritt Island

If you haven’t already, you absolutely must add The Kennedy Space Center on Merritt Island to your Florida East Coast road trip itinerary! Since the 1960s, this center has been a key part of NASA’s study and execution of human spaceflight. Did you know that the first Apollo flights were managed by the Kennedy Space Center? Visiting is a must for any space enthusiast or history buff!

Fun, Funky, and Family-Friendly Fort Lauderdale

Whether you want to end your journey here or make it a stop in your trip, Fort Lauderdale is easily the best itinerary item you can include on your itinerary! We recommend spending the most time (at least four days) here to make the most of this lively city’s fabulous attractions and activities . Discover picturesque canals, beautiful beaches, bustling Las Olas bars , romantic restaurants , and family-friendly attractions here in “The Venice of America!”

Key West: The Southernmost Point of the Continental U.S.

Once in Fort Lauderdale, you’ll be just four hours away from Key West , a true American icon (that’s less than 275 miles away from The Bahamas)! This makes for a perfect day trip from your private vacation rental in Fort Lauderdale . Drive down and take in the tropical, blue-green waters and be sure to snap a photo at the “Southernmost Point in the Continental U.S.” marker. If you don’t want to drive quite that far, a good alternative is Everglades National Park , a 2-hour drive from Fort Lauderdale.

While in Fort Lauderdale, Stay in Comfort and Luxury!

If you’re looking for a truly unique vacation along Florida’s Eastern shore, don’t stay in a boring, cramped, and conventional hotel room. Instead, book a luxurious-yet-affordable vacation rental with Fort Lauderdale Stays! Imagine having your own place to come back to at the end of the day—no noisy neighbors, your own private pool (heated to a comfortable 88 degrees), and premium amenities found nowhere else. If you crave a true V.I.P. experience in Fort Lauderdale, you can even opt for our convenient Concierge Services . We offer private massage therapy, personal chefs, family photography, acupuncture services, and so much more! How’s that for a unique vacation? Whether you place Fort Lauderdale at the beginning, middle, or end of your Florida East Coast itinerary, we have you covered!

Ready to plan your road trip? Begin planning and book a private vacation rental in Fort Lauderdale today ! We can’t wait to welcome you.

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This 469-mile East Coast Road Trip Route Is One of the Best in the U.S. — and It's Got Stunning Hiking Trails, Too

Blue Ridge Parkway was named one of America's best road trip routes in a new study.

Cindy Robinson/Getty Images

Americans love a good road trip vacation . Like really love their road trips. According to GasBuddy's 2024 Summer Travel Survey , 76 percent of Americans planned to take a road trip between Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends, which marked an 18 percent increase from its 2023 findings. The survey also noted that the average traveler has planned two road trips for the season. If you're looking for the right route for your next trip, student travel company Rustic Pathways has a few options to consider. 

In late July, the company released its research on the most searched-for American road trips, which it compiled after looking at data for search terms like "road trip," "itinerary," "the loneliest road," "Route 66," and "Hana Highway." It took that information, which it found using Google Keyword Planner, to rank routes based on their average monthly search volume. (It noted that search terms for the same routes — like "Hana Highway" and "Hana Highway road trip" — were combined to give an overall monthly figure.)

Once it had its numbers, there was a very clear winner: the Pacific Coast Highway in California, which received an average of over 257,000 monthly searches. In fact, most of the list was made up of destinations out West, with Route 66 and Big Sur Road Trip taking the No. 2 and No. 3 spots, respectively. However, there was one eastern road trip that made the list that we think drivers will fall in love with too. 

In fourth place is the Blue Ridge Parkway , which is known as "America’s Favorite Drive." The team noted it receives an impressive 112,000 monthly searches each month. "The route runs 469 miles through the Blue Ridge section of the Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina and Virginia," the team explained in the findings. "The trip has beautiful views of the mountains, and visitors can visit the Shenandoah and Great Smoky Mountains National Parks along the way." 

However, this short description really doesn't do it enough justice.  

Travelers can choose to simply meander down the route, taking in all those verdant vistas along the way, or pull over for a hike (there are more than 300 miles of hiking trails along the Blue Ridge Parkway to explore), take part in a ranger-led experience, sit in on a forest concert, stop at its various photography checkpoints, or extend your journey by camping in one of its fantastic campgrounds . 

If you need even more road trip inspiration, the team also named Hawaii's Hana Highway, Montana's Going-to-the-Sun Road, the Oregon Trail, the Southern Pacific route, the Beartooth Highway, and the Lincoln Highway in its top 10 roads to drive through.

Related Articles

7 Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas

T he Northeast is the perfect region for a road trip. Filled with diverse cities and towns, the East Coast offers ski resorts, beaches, attractions, history, and so much more.

Road trips can be a great way to be more impulsive in your travel because you aren’t going to be bound by flight reservations. They can also be a wonderful way to save money on your vacation. When road-tripping, you don’t have to pay for airline tickets or rent a car.

If you are thinking of road tripping, and are looking for some inspiration, here are 7 East Coast road trip ideas. I’ve selected specific start and end points for demonstration, but keep in mind that you can adjust these trips based on where you live and where you want to end up. If you are looking for an epic East Coast road trip itinerary, you may consider combining some of these road trips along the East Coast to make a longer trip.

This post contains affiliate links. A purchase through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us. All opinions are my own. We may have been hosted at one or more of these destinations but all opinions are my own.

7 of the Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas

Canada – boston road trip.

I have so many fond memories of traveling to Canada each summer from my home in Rhode Island. If you live in the Northeast, there are several great Canadian destinations to visit, including Toronto, Niagara Falls, Montreal, and Quebec City .

Our favorite road trip to Canada is from Boston to Quebec City. There are two main routes to take, and to see more sites, you may want to take one route on the way there, and one route on the way back.

The first route takes about 7 hours and goes through the White Mountains National Forest . We typically try to stay overnight part of the way through that trip – usually stopping in Lincoln, New Hampshire.

Our pick in Lincoln, NH is the Mountain Club on Loon

• Great location
• Nice family rooms
• Indoor and outdoor pools

The second route takes about an extra half hour and goes through Maine, including the southern coast of Maine. Although it isn’t halfway, you may consider staying in Portland, Maine . There’s so much to do, including some fantastic restaurants and great shops.

Our pick in Portland Maine is the Press Hotel

• Fantastic theme with some great fun touches
• Member of the Autograph Collection

If you’d rather visit Montreal, you’ll travel through both New Hampshire and Vermont. A good stopping point is right on the NH/Vermont border, near Hanover, NH. That trip, from Boston to Montreal, takes a little over 5 hours. It can definitely be done in a day, but it’s also nice to stop over in New Hampshire/Vermont on your way.

See hotels in Montreal

See hotels in Hanover, NH

New England Road Trip

You could easily explore much of what New England has to offer with a road trip. For this type of trip, you’ll want to start and end at the same point. There are so many scenic drives as well as historic sites in the area.

During your trip, you may want to visit the following places:

• Rockport, MA
• Lake Winnipesaukee, NH
• Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor
• Lincoln, NH
• Cape Cod, MA
• North Conway, NH
• Portland, Maine
• New Haven, CT
• Newport, RI

A few years ago, we did a culinary road trip from Portland, Maine to New Haven, CT. This trip was a great way to sample delicious food and see fabulous museums. Make sure you research in advance to figure out which attractions you want to see on this type of trip.

If you aren’t from the New England area, I’d recommend starting and ending your trip in Boston. It’s a good central location, and that’s the largest of the airports in the area. Getting a flight to Boston from most larger United States airports is pretty easy.

Northeast – Florida Road Trip

When I was a kid, my family road-tripped from our home in Rhode Island down to the Orlando area in Florida several times. This journey, which takes about 24 hours, can seem very long. But there are also some great places to stop along the way.

To break things up, you’ll want to have several drivers or stop at least overnight. You can also make several stops, seeing varying sites along the way.

For much of this trip, you’ll be traveling down I-95. Ideas for stops include:

• New York City
• Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Washington DC
• Richmond, Virginia
• Fayetteville, North Carolina
• Savannah, Georgia
• Jacksonville, Florida
• Daytona Beach, Florida
• St. Augustine, Florida (the oldest city in the United States)

Other popular spots, like Bethany Beach Delaware, and Charleston South Carolina, would be detours of the route. But if they are must-dos, definitely build some time for those side trips.

Typically, we would do this type of road trip to visit Walt Disney World. However, you could definitely go beyond that, and visit the Southernmost point of the United States, all the way in the Florida Keys at Key West. Just keep in mind that you will likely need to make several overnight stops. Those are best reserved in advance for the best availability.

Northeast – Outer Banks, North Carolina

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a popular summer destination. If you are thinking of traveling there, a road trip from the Northeast can be a great option. Overall, the trip will take about 12 hours (depending on where you depart from), and there are several stops you can make along the way.

• New York City, NY
• Norfolk, Virginia
• Virginia Beach, Virginia

Boston-Washington DC Road Trip

A few years ago, we drove from our home in the Boston area to Washington DC. This trip takes about 8 to 8 ½ hours if you drive straight through. However, if you are trying to make it more of a journey, there are several East Coast road trip stops you can make along the way.

• Hartford, Connecticut
• New Haven, Connecticut

During our trip, we decided to leave after school on the last day before spring break. So, we drove in the evening until we reached Greenwich, CT. We stayed overnight there and then continued to DC. On our way back, we wanted to get home, so we drove the whole way back straight through.

If you want to stop at multiple cities for a longer stay, I’d recommend stopping in NYC and Philadelphia. These two large US cities offer so many attractions and historical sites that they are great for a family vacation.

Our pick in Philadelphia is the Canopy by Hilton Philadelphia City Center

• Fun boutique hotel
• Unique rooms
• Fantastic location

Boston-NYC Road Trip

It’s a short trip, but there are tons to see on the journey from Boston to New York City. It’s a bit longer, but if you are looking to see a few places along the way, I’d recommend taking Route 95. This trip will take you through Rhode Island and the coast of Connecticut.

On your trip, you can stop in Mystic, Connecticut, and New Haven, Connecticut to visit their attractions and eat the delicious local food (don’t miss trying the iconic New Haven pizza).

You can easily do this trip in one day. If you do choose to do that, I’d recommend picking one attraction in Mystic to visit. With younger kids, the Mystic Aquarium is probably the best choice. It’s one of my favorite aquariums and is usually a big hit with kids.

Revolutionary War/Hamilton Road Trip

The East Coast is home to so many US history sites that you could easily plan a road trip right around those sites. One idea is a Hamilton road trip, which will take you to many of the sites mentioned in Hamilton: An American Musical.

For this road trip, I’d recommend the following stops. This itinerary starts in the south and moves north, but of course, you could do it in the opposite direction.

• Yorktown Battlefield Virginia (Mentioned in the song Yorktown (the World Turned Upside Down)
• Monticello (Mentioned in the song What Did I Miss?) – Charlottesville, VA)
• James Madison’s Montpelier (not explicitly mentioned in the musical, but Madison is a main character in the second act)
• George Washington’s Mount Vernon (Mentioned in Right Hand Man and Stay Alive)
• Washington Monument/Thomas Jefferson Memorial (Washington Monument mentioned in Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story)
• The Bureau of Engraving and Printing
• Weehawken, NJ (Mentioned in My Obedient Servant)
• Richard Rodgers Theater, NYC

The post 7 Best East Coast Road Trip Ideas appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .

Harris to embark on a seven-state campaign blitz with her VP pick

Vice President Kamala Harris will set out this week on a swing-state campaign blitz, giving her a far heavier travel schedule than her opponent, former President Donald Trump.

It will be a critical week for Harris, who is rushing to introduce herself to voters with just three months until Election Day. It will also be the first time she will appear with her yet-to-be-announced running mate.

Starting Tuesday, Harris will campaign across seven swing states over five days, one of the heaviest weeks of campaign-related travel in the general election.

Her team has vetted six contenders to be her running mate: Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Sen. Mark Kelly of Arizona, Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.

Walz, Shapiro and Kelly each met separately with Harris on Sunday, according to a source familiar with the meetings.

Harris is set to appear alongside her running mate for the first time Tuesday in Philadelphia , where the pair will kick off the cross-country tour.

Her travel swing is a stark contrast to the pace of Trump and President Joe Biden. Trump has delivered remarks in 10 states since the June 27 debate, while Biden traveled to campaign stops in eight states during the final 24 days of his candidacy. Harris’ travel this week will take her to seven states in less than a fourth of the time.

Harris will visit five states that she and Biden flipped blue in 2020: Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Michigan, Georgia and Arizona. She will also make stops in North Carolina, which Biden lost by a slim margin, and Nevada, where Democrats won narrowly.

The trip highlights the generational gap between Harris compared with Biden and Trump, Democratic allies said.

Biden’s candidacy was consistently plagued by voter concerns about his age, and his final weeks as the presumptive nominee were punctuated by a stream of congressional Democrats urging him to pass the torch to a new generation.

“Age really does matter” when it comes to a candidate’s ability to commit to long campaign trips, said Amanda Renteria, who was the national political director for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 campaign.

Harris, 59, is a generation younger than Trump, 78, and Biden, 81.

In 2020, Biden was the oldest presidential winner in history. If elected, Trump would be the oldest sitting president by the end of his term.

“It is amazing what candidates can do when they’re traveling around, and you don’t know what time it is, and you don’t know what day it is, but everyone’s in it,” she said. “And you can only sustain that for so long. And when you’re at the age of Trump, I don’t know how you keep up with that.”

Trump is scheduled this week to hold a rally Friday and deliver remarks at a dinner in Montana, a state he won in 2020 with 56.9% of the vote. He is also scheduled to hold a fundraiser Saturday in Colorado, which Biden won by a similar margin in 2020. Neither state is considered to be a swing state.

Reached for comment, Trump campaign communications director Steven Cheung pointed to the overall difference in the number of Trump and Harris campaign trips.

"In this cycle, President Trump has by far visited more battleground states, held more rallies, held more fundraisers, done more interviews and engaged with local reporters," Cheung said of Trump, who launched his campaign more than a year and a half before Harris became the presumptive Democratic nominee.

"Kamala Harris can’t even give a simple media interview since she was anointed the Democrat nominee," he continued. Harris has not held a sit-down media interview since Biden dropped out of the race on July 21, though she has answered journalists' questions in media gaggles.

In the days after Biden's widely panned June debate in Georgia, his campaign was in damage control mode. Biden spoke at a North Carolina rally and traveled to fundraisers in New York, New Jersey and Virginia before he held a rally in Wisconsin.

His next campaign trips were to Pennsylvania, Michigan and Nevada, the last of which was cut short when he contracted Covid. Days later, he dropped out of the race.

Democratic National Committee spokesperson Abhi Rahman said that if Biden had stayed in the race, "I'm sure that there would have been blitzes like this, as well."

But now "there's definitely a lot of desire to make sure that the vice president is defining herself and her VP before Republicans get a chance to," Rahman said. "So the timing of this definitely goes with that."

When Biden was the presumptive nominee, the Trump campaign aimed many of its attacks at his cognitive ability, leaning into voters' concerns about his age. But with Harris' being a generation younger than Trump, Republicans have had to pivot their approach.

"I think she's making a point of her relative youth and vitality," said Bill Galston, a Brookings Institution fellow and official in President Bill Clinton's administration. "It's a point that she doesn't have to talk about because she's just showing it."

Harris' campaign swing is also consistent with how candidates typically pick up the pace as the election draws closer, said Aleigha Cavalier, a Democratic strategist at the strategy and marketing agency Precision Strategies. But she said Harris' travel pace compared to Trump's and Biden's is "a real advantage."

"I think the fact that she's willing and able to do this many events in a small amount of time is something that can make a real difference, especially when we're less than a hundred days out" from the election, Cavalier said.

Traveling for campaign events can create more opportunities for local media coverage, accelerate fundraising and identify potential future volunteers, said Eric Jaye, a Democratic consultant at Storefront Political Media, a campaign consulting firm. But most important, candidates are activating thousands of "micro-influencers" at rallies, he said.

"They're all holding up their phones, and they're all publishers," he said, adding that when rallygoers post pictures of themselves with a candidate, "that will go out to their networks, which is an endorsement for their networks."

"If you can get 10,000 people to share that they trust Kamala Harris, that has an impact as a form of media and communication in and of itself," Jaye said. "So essentially these are conventions of micro-influencers."

Already, the Harris campaign has touted a groundswell of volunteer support, noting in a memo released Saturday that over the previous 12 days, volunteers had placed 2.3 million phone calls and knocked on 172,000 doors.

The seven-state tour “shows that she has a ton of energy,” Renteria said. “It shows that her campaign is ready to go and is thinking through things and able to execute well. So it’s super exciting.”

Megan Lebowitz is a politics reporter for NBC News.

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10 West Coast Road Trips to Take in Your Lifetime

The best road trips are fueled by a mix of inspiring selections and natural beauty, and the West Coast delivers in spades. The region serves up a ridiculous diversity of landscapes and experiences with coastal vistas, scenic countryside, and culturally rich city centers around every turn. Even the coast itself varies dramatically along the way, from Southern California ’s surf and palm tree-filled beaches to the moody, nature-filled shores of the Pacific Northwest . And when it comes to the food, which spans farm stands brimming with fresh goodies to Michelin-starred dining, you certainly won’t be disappointed. We've rounded up the best road trip routes to see it all, as well as notable spots to rest and recharge along the way. We’ve also included ways to extend your excursion beyond US borders with must-stop locations in Canada and Mexico .

Like any region, West Coast weather and road conditions are often in flux, so check current statuses before venturing out.

This gallery has been updated since its original publish date. Additional reporting by Paul Rubio.

Highway 49 in California Gold Country

Skirting the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Highway 49 dips in and out of movie-worthy Gold Rush towns that are booming anew. It stretches through 500-plus miles of Central and Northern California in its entirety, but you’ll find the region’s most noteworthy highlights between Nevada City and Groveland—the latter of which offers a quick detour into Yosemite National Park . Along the way, you’ll enjoy endless pastoral scenery punctuated by leafy vineyards, wondrous caverns, and crystalline swimming holes . Plus, the scenery shifts with the seasons, so expect fields of vivid wildflowers in spring and, come autumn, fall color that rivals New England .

Where to stop: In Nevada City, Kitkitdizzi displays an impressive sampling of locally made home goods, artwork, and beauty products, while just outside of town, dreamy swimming holes along the South Fork of the Yuba River offer a refreshing dip. Head about two hours south to Sutter Creek where the wooden sidewalks and Old West facades make for excellent window shopping, with stops at the frozen-in-time Monteverde Store Museum and Yorba Wines for a taste of the surrounding California Shenandoah Valley AVA . Head further south to the village of Murphys, near which you’ll find Moaning Caverns , just one of the area’s many underground wonders with the largest cave chamber in the state.

Where to eat: The always bustling Lola in Nevada City serves contemporary crowd pleasers such as oysters and porterhouse pork chops in the dazzlingly restored 1856 National Exchange Hotel. Thirty miles away in Auburn, Ikeda’s is a perennial road trip favorite thanks to fruit from the owners’ farm (look for prized Redhaven peaches in summer), homemade pies, and classic short-order fare. Pabito’s Basecamp is Murphy Village’s taco truck par excellence with quesatacos, hulking burritos, and a smattering of picnic tables.

Where to stay: Kick up your heels in Amador City, California’s smallest incorporated town, at the 1879 Imperial Hotel with stylishly minimal rooms and cottages and an atmospheric dining room with refined dishes befitting a cosmopolitan city. Fifteen miles from Yosemite National Park, Firefall Ranch has Eichler-esque cabins that peer out over a vast meadowland and pond.

San Francisco to Los Angeles

Highway 1 isn’t the fastest route from San Francisco to Los Angeles , but it’s without a doubt the most enjoyable. The iconic journey down the Pacific Coast Highway serves as California’s veritable greatest hits with a spin through the Golden State’s legendary scenery and hot spots. There are plenty of big coastal views, quaint farm stands, and redwood groves from San Francisco to Santa Cruz and the Monterey Peninsula. Further south, enjoy the aptly named SLO county of San Luis Obispo , which offers a more relaxed vibe and a handful of under-the-radar finds. By the time you make your way down to Santa Barbara, you’ll be perfectly poised to relax on the palm tree-lined beaches from there through Santa Monica.

To make the most of your trip, there are a few potential detours to note. While Big Sur ’s sky-high ocean vistas and wooded splendor are absolute highlights of the trip, frequent road closures along Highway 1 may prevent you from driving through its entirety ( check highway conditions for the latest status ). Also, consider popping over to Highway 101 for Paso Robles’ wine country, and again at Pismo Beach so as not to bypass the darling tiny towns of Los Alamos and Los Olivos.

Where to stop: You’ll get a good glimpse of Monterey Peninsula’s famously scenic coastline from the road, but nothing compares to the front-row views at Point Lobos State Natural Reserve . In Morro Bay, comb for sand dollars at Morro Strand State Beach , an underrated gem with six miles of sandy shoreline adjoining the town’s 581-foot centerpiece, Morro Rock. Just save time to explore the stunning, over-the-top gardens of the late Ganna Walksa’s former estate at Lotusland in Santa Barbara (advance reservations required).

Where to eat: Steps from its namesake surf break in Santa Cruz, the take-away Steamer Lane Supply draws a line for fresh fish tacos, kimchi quesadillas, and freshly baked pastries. For dinner, score a table at Carmel’s Chez Noir whose glammed-out dining room hums with the energy of a buzzy dinner party. Plenty of Bell offers an excuse to pull over in Los Alamos with comfort food faves like bacon breakfast sammies and turkey Reubens. In Santa Barbara, the menu at La Paloma Cafe is a nod to early California—the oak-grilled tri-tip with horseradish cream is a must—served on a lush, palm tree-shrouded patio.

Where to stay: A giant neon “Motel” sign marks River Lodge , a reimagined mid-century property in Paso Robles with a happening, bar-equipped pool deck (heads up, it’s 21+) and exceedingly dog-friendly accommodations. Inn at Mattei’s Tavern offers cushy digs in Santa Ynez wine country hot spot, Los Olivos, while Waypoint Ventura has tricked-out vintage travel trailers that are walking distance from the beach.

Planning to only do half the drive? Consult this San Francisco to Paso Robles itinerary.

San Diego to Valle de Guadalupe

This road trip is a foodie's paradise—Southern Californians in the know have been taking a trip down Mexico's 1D toll road on long weekends for years. Looping through the northernmost part of Baja, California, there are four main food-and-drink-focused stops: Tijuana for taco carts and craft breweries (including the woman-owned Cervecería Mexica); Rosarito and Ensenada for some no-frills regional seafood; and Valle de Guadalupe with its multiple newly-awarded Michelin-starred restaurants—and over 50 wineries. Throughout it all, the views change from panoramas of the Pacific to sweeping desert landscapes.

Where to stop: In Tijuana, the Museo del Taco does for tacos what the Museum of Ice Cream did for the frozen treat, with vibrant, immersive exhibits and an actual taco bar designed for splashy photo-ops. For more refined design, pop into Object boutique, which pulls together furniture, clothing, and home goods from artisans across the country. Afterward, detour at KM 84 for the Mirador Salsipuedes observation deck , between Tijuana and Ensenada, which has the best ocean views of the trip.

Where to eat: For a quick refuel, don't miss seafood tostadas at the Bourdain-approved La Guerrerense cart in Ensenada (the scallops are a highlight). If luck strikes and your dates line up, join a dinner at star chef Javier Plascencia’s seasonal Animalón , set under a 200-year-old oak tree in the Valle de Guadalupe.

Where to stay: The apartment-sized modern villas at Banyan Tree Veya Valle de Guadalupe feature private plunge pools and expansive outdoor living spaces that overlook the valley’s surrounding hills and vineyards. The Bruma de Guadalupe vineyards are another retreat right in the middle of the desert (pair those organic reds with in-room massages and a meal at farm-to-table Fauna).

Following this route? We planned your entire three-day road trip.

Highway 101 in the Olympic Peninsula

In its northernmost reaches, Highway 101 loops some 330 miles around Washington State’s Olympic Peninsula, showcasing vast swathes of temperate rainforest in Olympic National Park, mist-shrouded emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, rocky coastline, and dozens of quaint, small towns with populations under 1,000. (Even better? The loop itself is just a couple hours' drive from the city of Seattle , making it easy to reach.)

Where to stop:  See what an American rainforest looks like at Hoh Rainforest , where towering spruce and western hemlock trees dominate and black bears and bobcats roam. Don't miss the Dungeness Spit, one of the world's largest sand spits (somewhat like a natural jetty) and a national wildlife refuge.

Where to eat:  Sample the seasonal “garden-to-plate” items at Nourish in Sequim, where all ingredients are local and organic.

Where to stay:  Get back to nature in Olympic National Park at the rustic Kalaloch Lodge , which sits between evergreen forests and the Pacific Ocean.

Highway 101 on Oregon's Coast

Down the snaking shoreline from Washington State to the California Redwoods, Oregon's Highway 101 puts on a show, from broad Cannon Beach to dozens of outstanding state parks with even better names (see: Devils Punchbowl, Cape Perpetua). Each detour is distinctive, and the drive is—dare we say it— as lovely as California's Highway 1 .

Where to stop: Thanks to its appearance at the end of the 1985 kidventure flick The Goonies , Haystack Rock is forever known as "Goonies Rock." The sea stack rises 235 feet above sea level, and is a visible beacon calling you to Cannon Beach.

Where to eat: Pelican Pub and Brewery in surfers' cove Pacific City lets you drink a locally brewed porter with your toes in the sand. 

Where to stay: Built in the early 1890s, the iconic Heceta Head Lighthouse —just five miles from Cape Perpetua—has an adjacent light keeper’s house that's now a plush bed and breakfast (with a memorable multi-course meal in the morning). If you're the sporting type, Bandon Dunes golf resort is nationally renowned and a great place to stay for a day or two.

Yosemite to Death Valley

Eastern California is blessed with prolific and diverse national parklands . Start in Yosemite National Park with North America’s highest waterfall, Yosemite Falls, and the 3,000-foot tall granite monolith, El Capitan, then head south to contiguous national parks Kings Canyon and Sequoia, underscored by larger-than-life, centuries-old Sequoia trees within virgin forests . Finish the park tour exploring the ethereal sand dunes and canyons of Death Valley National Park by way of the Death Valley Scenic Byway.

Where to stop:  In Yosemite, make sure to pull over at Tunnel View on your way out for a sweeping look at the entire park. Put size into perspective with a picture of the largest tree on earth, the 275-foot-tall General Sherman sequoia tree, in Sequoia National Park.

Where to eat:  Splurge on dinner at the Majestic Yosemite Dining Room , a formal, candle-lit space that maintains its 1920s grandeur with candelabra chandeliers, fine china, and modern takes on classics like oysters Rockefeller and French onion soup.

Where to stay:  Unpack at The Majestic Yosemite Hotel (formerly Ahwahnee Hotel), a Gilbert Stanley Underwood-designed, Y-shaped lodge in the heart of Yosemite National Park—and the first-ever luxury hotel in America’s national parklands (it opened in 1927). If you're up for camping, the lower campgrounds at Yosemite are the spot to do it—you'll wake up to a world-class view, with amenities at an arm's reach.

The Alaskan Highway

The 1,390-mile Alaska Highway has a legendary name—the Alcan—and views to match. Starting in Seattle , it crosses the Canadian border into Vancouver, and then on to Anchorage, where you'll see the best of the Northwest, super-sized. "Mountains are wide and widely spaced, and massive lakes are electric blue," writes Allison Williams for Seattle Met magazine. Bears and moose will keep you company along the way. (Editor's note: The U.S.-Canada border is currently closed.)

Where to stop: Vancouver , always, for a walk through Stanley Park and amazing meals to fortify you on the long road. Whitehorse in the Yukon Territory is one of the few landmark towns on the Alcan, and a great place to overnight.

Where to eat: Join the line at Vancouver Indian institution Vij’s for lamb popsicles and spicy goat curry. In Whitehorse, try Antoinette's, which serves up Caribbean dishes like spiced ribs and curried stews, or Burnt Toast Cafe for classics like burgers and beer.

Where to stay: Lodging is a little sparse on this road trip, but the Summit Lake Lodge outside Moose Pass, and Northern Lights Resort and Spa in the Yukon, are reliable options. Plus, the Northern Lights Resort lives up to its name.

Historic Columbia River Highway

The 75-mile Columbia River Highway connects Troutdale, Oregon, with The Dalles, for a short drive that is jam-packed with scenery: expect to see towering waterfalls, moss-covered bridges, and lush greenery throughout the entire drive. Plus, you can pick up the drive just thirty minutes east of Portland (to really stretch things out, combine it with a longer trip up or down the Oregon coast).

Where to stop: The 610-foot Multnomah Falls are a must-see, and visible from the road, but they tend to draw a crowd. Consider making your way to Oneonta Falls, just off the highway, for a short hike with equally impressive views (if you’re feeling especially adventurous, wade through the Oneonta gorge).

Where to eat: Snack at the fresh berry stands along the route, or stop at one of the wineries in Hood River. Hiyu Wine Farm , which produces nearly everything it serves, from biodynamics wine to hearty steaks, is a favorite.

Where to stay: With Portland right near the west end of the highway, it’s easy to use the city as your home base. The Hoxton and Ace Hotel both have outposts in the city, right in downtown—perfect for gliding on and off the highway. 

Mendocino to Sonoma

While Napa Valley enjoys a more prominent profile, the Wine Country regions of Sonoma and Mendocino counties make for a better road trip. Exceptional wine and vineyard-filled countrysides are a given, especially when starting in Healdsburg where tasting rooms are packed along its bustling plaza and rural westside. Continue onto Highway 128 which twists and turns through hilly backcountry into the verdant farmlands and vineyards of the Anderson Valley, and you’ll double down on the pastoral beauty. Follow the highway further as it meanders through redwood forests along the Navarro River, and you’ll arrive at the rugged splendor of the Mendocino Coast. You’d be hard-pressed to find a more spectacular, epicurean-themed road trip in California.

Where to stop: Stretch your legs on a quick loop trail through the 300-foot redwoods at Hendy Woods State Park . At the adjacent Philo Apple Farm , load up on seasonal fruit, juices, and homemade preserves at its impossibly charming farm stand. For wineries, consider The Donum Estate in Sonoma, whose 200 acres are dotted with over 50 sculptures from artists such as Yayoi Kusama, Keith Haring, and Louise Bourgeois. In Anderson Valley, Navarro Vineyards is a cult-fave that primarily sells direct to customers—the Gewürztraminer and Pinot Noir go quickly—and has first come, first serve picnic tables set amidst rows of vineyards.

Where to eat: Fuel up for the road at Healdsburg’s Drewish Deli with an assortment of bagels, schmears, and house-cured lox. In between Sonoma and Mendocino, you’ll find Boonville, where the tasting room at Pennyroyal Farm offers tasty bites alongside wine and fresh and aged goat cheeses produced on-site. Ask them to whip up a charcuterie board, and dig in on the patio, surrounded by sweeping views of the picturesque grounds. For a Michelin-starred splurge, Harbor House Inn plates a multi-course dinner that pulls from its immediate surroundings—local abalone, candy cap mushrooms, sea vegetables—in an intimate dining room peering out over the Pacific.

Where to stay: Set amidst a hilltop garden, The Madrona is a design-lover's dream—its lush interiors blend modern furnishings with the original architectural details of a revamped 1881 mansion. The boutique Boonville Hotel embodies Anderson Valley’s laid-back sophistication, with rustic-chic cottages set in a trellised garden and a convivial restaurant offering nightly set menus (including an alfresco paella party each Sunday).

Extend your trip by following the Russian River to the Pacific Coast Highway, before looping back down to San Francisco. We've plotted it out for you.

Los Angeles to Palm Springs

Many Angelenos are under the impression that Los Angeles is a desert. And while that’s not actually the case, it doesn’t take long to get to one—just head east and you’ll hit Palm Springs in under two hours (depending on traffic, that is). From there? It’s just another 45 minutes to Joshua Tree and surrounding small towns like Twentynine Palms, making for the perfect weekend away from the big city, replete with art, great food, and that dry desert heat.

Where to stop: Design lovers should beeline for the Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center , or swing by Sunnylands , a family estate that embodies the mid-century modern design the area is known for, and offers tours.

Where to eat: Counter Reformation , inside the Parker Palm Springs, is a wine bar serving charcuterie and great bottles a cut above its competition; Rooster and the Pig , known for contemporary Vietnamese-American cuisine, also pulls a crowd with dishes like pork belly fried rice, and signature cocktails.

Where to stay: The Ace Hotel & Swim Club is a Modernist haven, filled with lazing hammocks and local art right at home in the desert—and a pool for when you desperately need to cool off. The dreamy Joshua Tree House , available on Airbnb, is a well-appointed two-bed, two-bath house right outside the park.

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Debby updates: Flash flooding, tornadoes target DC, Mid-Atlantic, Northeast

Debby will exit the Northeast on Saturday.

Debby, which weakened from a tropical storm to a tropical depression Thursday afternoon, is slamming the Mid-Atlantic and the Northeast with heavy rain on Friday.

Debby made landfall in Florida as a Category 1 hurricane on Monday and crawled up the East Coast all week.

Latest headlines:

• Aug 09, 2024, 5:10 PM EDT Helicopters, boats rescue people in Pennsylvania
• Aug 09, 2024, 3:32 PM EDT Debby’s rain totals
• Aug 09, 2024, 3:30 PM EDT Latest forecast

Latest forecast

Debby, now a post-tropical cyclone, is slamming the Northeast with heavy rain.

A life-threatening flash flood emergency was issued in northern Pennsylvania and southern New York due to fast-moving floodwaters.

A flood watch remains in effect for parts of nine states from South Carolina to New Hampshire due to the intense rain.

Showers with some downpours will continue across the Northeast through the evening. Tornadoes are also possible.

Debby will be gone by Saturday morning.

Helicopters, boats rescue people in Pennsylvania

Helicopters and boats were deployed in Tioga County in northern Pennsylvania on Friday to help rescue people trapped in floodwaters, according to the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency.

Debby’s rain totals

Four states recorded more than 1 foot of rain this week from Tropical Storm Debby.

Parrish, Florida, and Summerville, South Carolina, saw more than 18 inches of rain.

Kings Grant, North Carolina, recorded over 15 inches, while Oliver, Georgia, saw more than 14 inches.

Debby’s death toll rises to 8

At least eight people have died from Tropical Storm Debby.

The most recent fatality was Thursday night, as a 78-year-old woman was killed when a tree fell on her mobile home in Browns Summit, North Carolina, according the Rockingham County Sheriff's Office.

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