east coast bus trip

East Coast Road Trip

If you’re looking to hit the road, try an East Coast road trip! The East Coast is a fabulous destination with an endless list of places to explore. From historic cities to quaint little beachside towns, we promise you won’t have time to get bored.

East, West—what’s best?

While the West Coast is known for its sheer beauty and natural sights, the East Coast will seduce you thanks to its rich history and culture, with dynamic places that have something to offer for everyone. Sure, you can travel from coast to coast, but, keep in mind the size of the country. Bus rides through the middle of the US can stretch 15 to 20 hours or even longer. If you have limited time (or patience!), it’s a safer bet to choose one region and explore it more thoroughly. The following road trip itinerary focuses on the East Coast of the United States.

Consider Going on Your East Coast Road Trip by Bus

Why? The reasons are numerous! Traveling by bus lets you leave the “how are we getting there” part of the planning to the experts, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the ride. Companies like BoltBus and FlixBus have established many routes across the country and are popular with students and budget travelers, while Greyhound , the biggest bus company in the country, has a combination of bus lines that makes it possible to go nearly anywhere. Plus:

• Taking the bus is cheaper than renting a car and paying for gas.
• It will give you the freedom of not having to find parking or pay outrageous parking prices.
• If you get stuck in traffic, you can read, listen to music, play games, and even catch up on work.
• Another bus travel perk: it’s more eco-friendly than taking the car.

East Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Now, the great thing about opting for an East Coast Road Trip is that it is possible to do a bus road trip for North to South or South to North in 12 days to over a month, depending on your itinerary. To help you kick off your road trip, we’ve put together a list of main stops with optional stops or day trips along the way. We know that mapping out a road trip can be intimidating, especially when planning to travel long distances. There are many things to see, and you don’t necessarily know where to stop or how much time to spend in each city you visit! Follow this itinerary to the letter or pick and choose what works best for you depending on your timeline, budget, and interests.

Now, let’s hit the road!

1. Visit Boston to kick off your East Coast Road Trip

If you’re heading South, a good starting point is Boston, Massachusetts. This historical city was founded in 1629 and is one of the oldest, biggest, and most interesting cities in the country. Not to mention that it has multiple bus connexions down the East Coast. It’s the largest city in New England, an educational powerhouse, and a pivotal player in American History and also a beautiful and engaging city with tons for tourists to do, see, and experience.

Why visit Boston?

Boston has excellent public transportation, which extends to the neighboring cities of Cambridge and Brookline. So, if you’re traveling around Boston, you can visit the three cities as one large metropolis. Boston is also a fabulous place for sports fans and is home to many awesome bars and food markets.

How much time should you spend in Boston? 

We suggest spending two or three days in Boston.

Things to do in Boston

Spend a day following the Freedom Trail through downtown Boston to hit up most of the historical sites all in one go, including Boston Common, Faneuil Hall, and Paul Revere’s home.

• Check out the Boston Freedom Trail – a man-made path with sixteen historical sites focused on the American revolution, spread out across the city. 
• Boston Common , also known as “the Common”, is the oldest city park in the US, founded in 1634. The park is filled with public artworks commemorating its 385 years of history. You can also play tennis or baseball or relax by its lovely frog pond.
• Faneuil Hall is Boston’s waterfront marketplace comprised of three historic buildings.
• The Paul Revere House , built in 1680, was the colonial house of American patriot, Paul Revere. It now holds various exhibits about Revere’s life, Boston’s history and a museum gift shop with various crafts, ornaments, and gifts. 

Another great activity to do in Boston is to visit the Quincy Market. Set up in a fantastic building, the market boasts fresh food stalls, serving anything and everything from pan-Asian cuisine to vegan delights. You might also want to stop by the Boston Museum of Fine Arts to browse the current exhibit, or if you’re more of a sports buff, head to Fenway Park to catch a baseball game. Check out our full Boston Travel guide for more inspiration on things to do while you’re in there.

Insider tip: Ask an MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) station manager for a free reusable Charlie Card for discounts on subway and bus fares.

Travel from Boston

Next: take the bus from boston to nyc.

Next stop on your East Coast Road Trip: New York City! There are over 90 departures per day between Boston and New York so you’ll be able to catch a bus at almost every hour of the day. Most of the buses arrive and depart from the Boston South Station , located downtown at 700 Atlantic Ave. The bus ride from Boston to NY lasts between 4 and 6 hours, depending on the time of departure. 

Bus tip: If you’re coming from the South, sit on the right side of the bus for a view of the entire New York skyline before the Holland Tunnel.

BOOK YOUR BOSTON TO NEW YORK BUS TICKETS

Optional route or day trip: Boston to Barnstable 

If you feel like taking the scenic route and extending your road trip itinerary, you can try an alternate route to Barnstable, on Cape Cod.

 So, why stop by Barnstable?

• Barnstable is the largest town on Cape Cod.
• It’s the perfect quiet and quaint town for a beach getaway.
• It’s located a short bus ride away from Boston (1:30).

BOOK YOUR BUS FROM BOSTON TO BARNSTABLE

If you choose to head down to the Big Apple next, note that the ride between Barnstable and New York is a little over six hours. Be careful, there are only two daily departures at 8:30 am and 12:45 pm between Barnstable and New York .

2. Next stop: check out the NYC attractions

New York City needs no introduction. It’s the economic center of the world, the setting for countless movies and TV shows and one of the most iconic places on Earth. We could not pass on this stop for this East Coast road trip. 

Why Visit New York City?

Ah, New York, New York! In the Big Apple, you will find some of the world’s best museums, shopping, dining, and pretty much everything else you could imagine. Step away from Times Square, and you will see that New York is more than a cliché, it’s actually a real living and breathing city. Yes, New York is a city of split personalities from trendy Brooklyn to elegant SoHo, ethnically diverse Queens and the funky lower East Side. There is a spot for everyone… and every taste!

How much time should you spend in New York 

We suggest spending three days minimum in New York. It’s not much, considering how much there is to see and do in the city, but it will give you a good feel, and hey, you can always come back for more.

Things to do in NYC

There are more fun things to do in New York than can possibly be named, but one of the best ways to discover the Big Apple is to explore the different neighborhoods on foot. You can get a New York Pass , which gives you free entry to 100+ attractions, including the Empire State Building. The price depends on the duration of your pass, but it is definitely worth it if you plan on visiting some of the touristy attractions.

Insider Tip: Read up on how to visit New York on a budget if you’re a little short on cash!

Travel from New York City

Most buses arrive and depart from the New York Port Authority Terminal . To avoid any unnecessary stress, arrive well in advance as the terminal is gigantic and gets extremely busy. This will give you plenty of time to locate your bus!

Next: Bus from New York to Philadelphia

Next stop on your East Coast road trip: Philadelphia! There are departures every 15 minutes from New York to Philadelphia , most of them leaving from the Port Authority Bus Terminal. The bus ride is a quick one, taking between 1h50 minutes and 3 hours. Since there are so many departures, we suggest scheduling your bus trip according to its duration, in order to maximize your time both in New York and Philly!

Bus tip: Port Authority Bus Terminal has six floors: Lower level, Subway level, Main level, Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4. Bus gates are located on the Lower level, Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4 only. 

BOOK YOUR NYC TO PHILLY BUS TICKETS

Optional route or day trip: Bus from NYC to Bear Mountain State Park 

One of the best day trips from NYC is to hop on the Coach USA bus to Bear Mountain State Park. A refreshing destination to escape the city, Bear Mountain is the place to go fishing, hiking or biking in beautiful surroundings.

Bus tip: Buses leave Port Authority Bus Terminal at 42nd Street and Eighth Avenue at 8:45 am and 11:15 am, arriving back into the city at 5 pm. On weekends, you can stay longer in the State Park if you catch the additional bus returning at 7 pm.

3. Next on the list: discover the many fun things to do in Philly

Whether you’ve decided to take a day trip out of the city or not, Philly should be your next stop down the coast. Philadelphia is a great place to stop since arriving by bus from New York takes only two hours.

Why Visit Philadelphia?

Back when Washington DC was just swampland, Philadelphia was the capital of the early United States. Now, it’s a diverse and interesting city, where skyscrapers blend with colonial-era buildings. Most of the historic sites are clustered inside Independence National Historic Park, including the Liberty Bell and Constitution Hall (birthplace of the Declaration of Independence). The city is notable for its rich history and art scene so you’ll have plenty to do.

How much time should you spend in Philadelphia? 

To fully enjoy Philadelphia, plan two to three days to visit the city.

Things to do in Philadelphia

A great way to visit the city is to stroll down the trail in Philadelphia’s Historic District. This walking trail features some 23 stops to discover the city’s rich history and spans from the Delaware River to 7th Street and from Vine St to Lombard St. All the stops are located in the downtown area, home to many great places to unwind, eat and drink – as well as quaint boutiques and art galleries. Seize the opportunity and take a break from the trail by making a stop at the Independence Beer Garden. This immense venue is worth the detour to sip excellent beers as you take in the view. 

Insider Tip: You’ll want to try a world-famous Philly Cheesesteak while in town. Head to South Philly to try one of two major Philadelphia institutions: Pat’s King of Steaks or Geno’s Steaks.

Travel from Philadelphia

The Greyhound Bus Statio n is located a 10-minute walk from the start of the trail, which starts at the Independence Visitor Center. 

Next: take the Bus from Philadelphia to Washington DC

Once you’re done taking in the sights of historic Philly, keep heading down the coast to the capital city, Washington DC. Here too, there are multiple daily departures between Philly and DC , with trips lasting between 3 and 5 hours, depending on the time of departure. 

Bus tip: Most buses depart from downtown Philadelphia at the Greyhound Bus Station. However, the arrival stop may differ, depending on which bus you take. We suggest picking one that stops at Union Station in DC – since it’s located at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002 – a central location that is also well connected to all parts of the city. 

BOOK YOUR PHILADELPHIA TO WASHINGTON BUS  

Optional route or day trip: Philadelphia to Wilmington 

If you want to extend your East Coast road trip, you can make a stop in Wilmington, Delaware before heading to Washington DC. Located only 50 minutes away from Philly, it can also be a day trip destination. Let Wilmington’s unique blend of old and new charm you—and be sure to visit the Nemours estate and gardens!

BOOK YOUR PHILADELPHIA TO WILMINGTON BUS TICKETS

You can leave from either Philadelphia or Wilmington to DC, as both cities have over 15 daily departures for the capital. Both trips take between three and four hours. 

4. Next on the list: Washington DC attractions

This is it, the nation’s capital! If there’s a stop you can’t skip on this road trip, it’s this one.

Why Visit Washington DC?

Well known for its glistening marble monuments, the President’s home address, and a whole bunch of free museums, DC also has a thriving foodie and nightlife scene. 

How much time should you spend in Washington DC? 

We suggest spending at least three to four days in Washington.

What to do in Washington DC?

Most of DC’s top tourist attractions are clustered together near the National Mall. Here, you’ll find the monuments, the Smithsonian Museums (all free to the public), and the Capitol Building. Take a stroll in the trendy Dupont Circle neighborhood: lively nightlife, eclectic eateries, coffee shops, bookstores, and dive bars. To really see what DC is all about, you can also explore some of the colorful neighborhoods away from the monuments. Photograph the million-dollar townhouses in Georgetown, eat amazing international food in Adams Morgan, or dance all night along the U Street Corridor. Another fun thing to do in Washington is to swing by the Mall District. This 2-mile-long park runs through the center of the city and is home to Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, the Smithsonian Museum, and the White House. Oh, and one of the best things about DC is that most museums are free. Be sure to check out the National Air & Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History!

Insider Tip: Everyone snaps pictures of the monuments during the day, but revisit at night to take dramatic shots with fewer tourists in the way.

Travel from Washington DC

Most buses depart from the Washington Union Station , one of the busiest spots for transit and travel in the country, with trains, local, regional and national buses. If you’re feeling a little lost, look for the bus gates, which are located on the Mezzanine Level of the station. 

Next: Take the Bus From Washington to Charleston

There is only one daily departure between Washington and Charleston, South Carolina. The trip is pretty lengthy, taking about 17 hours… But Charleston is definitely worth the wait! Plus, traveling for a long time is a good way to catch up on sleep, read, listen to music or podcasts or simply enjoying well-deserved downtime after travelling from Boston to Washington . If you fear boredom, read our article about taking long bus trips like a pro or games you can play on the road .

Bus tip: The main bus station in Washington DC is on the fourth-floor parking garage attached to Union Station. Make sure you stop inside to check out the train station’s beautiful lobby!

BOOK YOUR BUS WASHINGTON CHARLESTON

Optional route: Washington to Richmond, Virgina

Before heading to Charleston, you can make a quick stop by Richmond, Virginia! Only two hours away from Washington, it’s one of America’s oldest major cities and is definitely worth stopping for one or two nights if you can spare the time. While you’re there, be sure to walk down Cary Street, the main street of the fashionable Carytown neighborhood.

BOOK YOUR WASHINGTON TO RICHMOND BUS TICKETS

Optional route: Washington to Virginia Beach

Another alternate route between Washington and Charleston is stopping in Virginia Beach! It’s the perfect pit stop after a couple of days in the Washington museums and cultural attractions.

Enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches with a three-mile boardwalk stretching along the town’s beach-lined oceanfront. You can also take an alternate route via Richmond AND Virginia Beach, but keep in mind that there is only one daily departure between Richmond and Virginia Beach .

This departure is at 9:30 am and you arrive in Virginia Beach at 12:55 pm, just in time to hit the beach.

BOOK YOUR WASHINGTON TO VIRGINIA BEACH BUS TICKETS

5. Last stop: take a trip to Charleston

Every road trip eventually has to come to an end… And to end yours on a high note, your last stop can be Charleston, South Carolina. Whether you arrive from Washington, Richmond or Virginia Beach, Charleston is truly a great destination to wrap up your East Coast road trip. In addition to its rich history, the city is also a major culinary destination, with many fantastic southern-style restaurants. 

Why Visit Charleston?

Charleston is the embodiment of old southern charm; a historic seaport town first established in 1670. It is renowned for its cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages and French Quarters but, unlike many southern cities, Charleston managed to escape the Civil War mostly unharmed, and is bursting with historic buildings, old cemeteries, and cobblestones. It is the best city to discover Southern hospitality and charm!

How much time should you spend in Charleston? 

We suggest spending two to three days in Charleston.

Things to do in Charleston SC

Charleston has many major historical sites like Fort Sumter (the location where the Civil War began) and the old French Quarter. Consider taking a walking tou r to admire the Southern architecture. And, at night, take a stroll on the Battery promenade and in Waterfront Park both overlooking Charleston Harbor for amazing views.

Insider Tip: Try to find accommodation close to the city center. This will allow you to explore the shops, restaurants, and historical sites on foot. Also be sure to splurge on a meal at Magnolia’s or Jestine’s Kitchen!

Potential day trip from Charleston

If your East Coast road trip has been filled mostly with visiting cities so far, it might be time to end on a relaxing note! Head out to one of the numerous beaches outside of the city, such as Folly Beach or Sullivan’s Island and discover the breathtaking sights of the East Coast.

If you want to keep going south, just a little while longer…

If you haven’t had enough, you can keep traveling south a little longer! Your next stop should be Savannah, Georgia , from which you can keep making your way south through Atlanta and then Florida, all the way to Key West, the southernmost point of continental US.

Bus Tip: In Charleston, the bus station is located outside of town. To get to the city center cheaply, cross the street from the bus terminal and take the #11 Airport bus towards the City Center.

Ready for your East Coast Road Trip? We bet you’ll have the time of your life! Share your bus trip itinerary and travel adventures below!

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Highlights : Welcome to the amazing city of Chicago. Check out the classical landmarks in Chicago while getting amazed by its post-modern architectures. Discover the stories behind the city’s most significant buildings such as Cloud Gate and Chicago Theatre. Take an in-depth tour of the city of Chicago and visit 360 Chicago for a full 360-degree panoramic view of Chicago from above. Explore Millenium Park and Grant Park. 

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Highlights : [Safe travel] Vehicles are regularly disinfected throughout the journey, and professional drivers and guides provide considerate service, making travel more at ease. [Heart-warming service] The Chinese-speaking tour guide will lead the team throughout the journey, use the car comfortably, and start a comfortable journey. [Selected Attractions] Indulge in the sea of ​​tulips, take you to feel the windmill island in spring; stroll in the Holland Village, enjoy the European style; run in Sobetak, deeply search for the lost town of Singapore.

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Highlights : Climb up to the observation deck of the World Trade Center and enjoy a panoramic view of Manhattan from the air. Take a cruise to admire the Statue of Liberty and enjoy the beauty of the downtown New York skyline. Walk into the crossroads of the world and feel the prosperity and liveliness of Times Square.      

1-Day New York/New Jersey to Camelback Mountain Resort Ski or Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-104

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Highlights : Explore the adventure and beauty of the Camelback Skiing Park!  A perfect family-friendly tour with unforgettable memories.  Various ski packages are available for guests to make your adventure more playful, easier, or thrilling! Experience a ski lift to the top of the mountain while enjoying the beautiful snowy, scenic views! Explore the East Coast’s largest Aquatopia Indoor Waterpark!

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1-Day Everglades National Park and Miami City Tour from Miami Tour code : GOL-MIA-120

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Highlights : Take a trip to South Beach!  Discover the Latin-inspired local life in Little Havana. Take an airboat ride cruising through the swamp channels in the Everglades National Park. Explore the highlighted attractions of Miami by visiting:  Wynwood Walls, Coral Gables, Little Haiti and so much more! Ride on an exclusive Miami Bay Cruise!

1-Day New York to Woodbury Common Premium Outlets Shopping Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-360

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1-Day New York to American Dream Mall Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-552

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Highlights : Explore one of the greatest malls in all of the United States! Take a look at the American Dream Shopping Center, which is not only for shopping, but also has a water world, aquarium, and Lego Center!  There is so much to discover in this unique one-of-a-kind mall!  A Coupon book of $10 will be given to you as a special gift, which is definitely worth it!

1-Day New York to Chuang Yen Monastery and Woodbury Common Premium Outlets Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-553

Departure City : Brooklyn NY, Flushing NY, Manhattan NY, New York City NY

Highlights : Explore the beautiful Chuang Yen Monastery to pray for blessings for the upcoming new year. Enjoy three hours in the Woodbury Outlet to enjoy the pleasure of shopping at your favorite designer brands. Take a look at the beauty to be filled with instant relaxation and peace.

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1-Day New York to Cold Spring Town and Woodbury Outlets Shopping Tour Tour code : GOL-NYC-554

Highlights : Enjoy the unique town of Cold Spring! Take a look at the beauty along the streets while enjoying a cup of coffee. Discover the Woodbury Outlets and shop at your favorite designer brands.

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The East Coast of the United States boasts a wealth of culture and history, leaving many visitors overwhelmed by the sheer number of things to see and do. One of the most convenient and enriching ways to experience the best sights is by booking an East Coast USA tour package.

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Eastern Canada & the Maritimes

See the best of our Maritime provinces on this all-Canadian itinerary, showcasing this beautiful part of our country. Come see some of the highlights of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and PEI, and make your reservation early on this memorable two-week holiday.

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Come along for spectacular sightseeing in Eastern Canada, including Montréal, a kitchen party in Miramichi, sightseeing on Prince Edward Island, a visit to Green Gables, the spectacular Cabot Trail, Peggy's Cove, historic Lunenburg, the famous Hopewell Rocks, a guided tour in Fredericton, 3 Fabric of Canada events, and so much more.

The June departure features the Royal Nova Scotia Tattoo in Halifax.

Book online or contact our reservations department at 1 800 461 8687 x 280.

Travel to the cosmopolitan city of Montreal where we spend our first night.

Enjoy a mid-day visit to historic Quebec City. Then, take the scenic drive to St. Simeon, and take a ferry across the St. Lawrence, spending the night in Riviere-du-Loup.

Arrive late afternoon in Miramichi, where you'll be welcomed after dinner with a down-home kitchen party.

Enjoy a fascinating visit to Olivier Soapery, followed by a cruise on the bay with lobster fishers with an included lobster feast. Cross the Confederation Bridge to P.E.I., spending two nights in Charlottetown.

A local guide joins us for a full day tour of Prince Edward Island. Visit Lucy Maude Montgomery's home, and enjoy a lunch reminiscent of the era of Anne of Green Gables

We return to New Brunswick, and travel south toward Nova Scotia. Stopping for a Fabric of Canada luncheon, we arrive this afternoon in Baddeck for a two-night stay.

We travel the Cabot Trail today, one of the most beautiful drives in North America.

This morning we travel from Baddeck to Halifax. Take in the scenery along the south shore of Minas Basin. Enjoy a guided city tour before checking into our home for the next three nights.

Visit the most photographed place in North America, Peggy's Cove. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the Halifax waterfront. The June 23 departure also features the Royal Nova Scotia Tattoo performance today. All other dates include a scenic harbour cruise aboard the tallship, Silva.

Travel through picturesque Mahone Bay to the historic town of Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, and explore the downtown waterfront area.

Travel across Nova Scotia and into New Brunswick, visiting the famous Hopewell Rocks. one of the most iconic natural sights in the Maritimes. The vista changes moment by moment, as the tide makes its way in and out of the basin twice per day. Then, stop at Magnetic Hill and experience the bizarre sensation of coasting uphill.

Enjoy a beautiful drive along the St. John River, stopping in Fredericton for a guided tour of the city.

Day Thirteen

Travel along the south shores of the St. Lawrence this morning to Montreal, our home for the night. A farewell dinner is included this evening at a lovely downtown restaurant.

Day Fourteen

We make our way home today, arriving early evening.

Price Includes

Luxury motor coach transportation

13 nights accommodation

3 breakfasts & 3 continental breakfasts

3 Fabric of Canada events with meals

Farewell dinner

Ferry from St. Simeon to Rivière-du-Loup

Kitchen party in Miramichi

Visit to Olivier Soapery

Lobster lunch & cruise

Guided tours of P.E.I., Halifax & Fredericton

Visit to Peggy's Cove

Royal Nova Scotia Tattoo (June 23 departure), or tallship harbour cruise in Halifax (other departures)

Admission to Fisheries Museum

Visit to Hopewell Rocks

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Colors of New England

About this tour.

Be charmed by the colors of New England from the heart of historic Boston to the farms, mountains, and coast of the North. Begin your journey in historic Boston. Explore Woodstock, Vermont, a quintessential New England village. Watch apples transform into cider before your eyes at Cold Hollow Cider Mill. Learn about the maple sugaring industry of New England on a farm tour of the Rocks Estate. Relax as you cruise along Lake Winnipesaukee and admire the splendid views. Dig in at a traditional New England lobster dinner. Travel up the winding Auto Road to see the stunning views from the summit of Mount Washington. Marvel at Maine’s dramatic coast and discover the seaside communities of Portland and Kennebunkport. This is New England at its finest.

Your Tour Includes

• 4 Handpicked Accommodations
• 1 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

• Simon Pearce
• Quechee Gorge

Your Tour at a Glance

7 Breakfasts

1 - Light & Leisurely

Travel Style

Fall Foliage Tours

Activity Level

• Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Extension Style

Travel styles, highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Drive the Kancamagus highway, known to have some of the best foliage views.

Embark on a cruise of stunning Lake Winnipesaukee.

Travel along Auto Road and enjoy views from the summit of Mount Washington.

Cultural Experiences:

Explore the Rocks Estate and learn the importance of maple sugaring in the region on a farm tour.

Learn the history of the famous von Trapp Family during a visit to their lodge in Stowe.

View the most photographed lighthouse in America, the Portland Head Light.

Culinary Inclusions:

Taste the essence of New England at a dinner featuring succulent fresh lobster.

Enjoy lunch prepared from fresh, local ingredients at the Simon Pearce restaurant.

Watch apple cider made the old-fashioned way.

• Cold Hollow Cider Mill
• Trapp Family Lodge
• Rocks Estate
• North Conway
• Kancamagus Highway
• Choice on Tour: Nature Walk or Lecture with Local Naturalist
• Mount Washington
• Lake Winnipesaukee Cruise
• Kennebunkport
• Lobster Dinner

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Getting Prepared

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• Choice On Tour

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Hotel-Marriott Copley Place Boston

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Pre Night: Marriott Copley Place Boston From $240 per night

Marriott Copley Place Boston

Stoweflake mountain resort, white mountain hotel & resort.

Courtyard Portland Downtown/Waterfront

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East Coast Road Trips & Tours

Travel down the East Coast of the USA on a road trip that captures all the best East Coast highlights.

If you love diverse cities, historic neighbourhoods and old-world charm, an East Coast adventure is calling your name. We're turning this road trip into a time machine and exploring some of the United States ' most historically significant places, from Boston 's coastal charm to the iconic landmarks of Washington, DC. We've got a couple of centuries and a few hundred miles to cover, so fuel up with a slice of New York style pizza , a bowl of New England clam chowder or a Philly cheesesteak to keep your (metaphorical) tank full and happy. Fasten your seatbelt, we're headed East... first stop: The City that Never Sleeps.

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Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travellers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travellers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

Do I need a visa to travel to United States?

It depends on where you’re from. Many countries now operate under the United States Visa Waiver Program, meaning a visa isn’t required for stays of up to 90 days for travel purposes. There are 40 participating countries, including the United Kingdom , Australia , New Zealand, Germany and Spain.

If you're eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you must obtain a letter of authorisation before you travel to the States. This can be obtained by submitting an application through the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation ( ESTA ).

If you’re a national from a non-participating country of the Visa Waiver Program, you must apply for a non-immigrant visa. Please see the Department of State website for more information.

If you have travelled to Iran, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Sudan, Somalia, Yemen or the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on or after 1 March 2011, you are ineligible and must apply for a non-immigrant visa instead.

People from a participating country who are also citizens of Cuba, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan must also apply for a non-immigrant visa.

Last updated: 6 March 2024 

Is tipping customary in the US?

Tipping is very much a part of the culture in the United States. Tips are expected at restaurants, cafes and diners, as well as by taxi drivers, valet attendants, porters and hotel maids.

People working in the service industry generally receive low wages and therefore rely upon tips as a major source of income.

In general, leave 15 to 20% of the bill at places serving food and a few dollars to bartenders and hotel staff who provide a personal service like carrying bags or cleaning your room.

What is the internet access like in the US?

Internet access is excellent in the US, and internet cafes and Wi-Fi hot spots are easily found in most cities and major towns.

Can I use my mobile phone while in the US?

Mobile phone coverage is excellent in most parts of the US although coverage may be patchy in remote, mountainous areas like national parks and canyons. Ensure global roaming is activated before you arrive.

What are the toilets like in the US?

Western-style flushable toilets are the norm in the US.

What is ATM access like in the US?

ATMs are common in the US, so finding one won't be a problem in most towns and cities.

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

How to plan the perfect 2 week USA East Coast Itinerary – everything you need to know

If you have ever visited or thought about visiting the USA you will know how enormous the country is. Planning a trip takes a fair bit of time, and if you only have 2 weeks to visit then it can feel slightly overwhelming. You might be wondering where to visit like should you visit places such as LA and San Francisco, on the west coast, or New York and Boston on the east coast in America? Luckily we have some tips to help you start planning.

In order to make the most of your time you are best organising a trip based on the East or West Coast . In this post we have created a 2 week East Coast itinerary including Boston, Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington DC. We’ve also included Chicago for good measure, and while it isn’t quite the East Coast in America, it is pretty close in case you want to mix it up a bit. So here is everything you need to know about planning a 2 week east coast USA itinerary.

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Before you leave on your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary

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Before you leave on your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary you need to make sure you  apply for your ESTA . That is of course if you aren’t a US Citizen. If you are then you can skip this bit.

The ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorisation which allows entry to the USA under the Visa Waiver Programme. But this is only for certain countries such as Australia, UK and, Ireland. You will need to fill in a few questions online including your contact details, employment details, and passport information.

You also need to pay the $14 (approx) fee. Most often you will get a quick response as to whether this has been approved but sometimes it can take a few days. Mine took longer because I am a dual national so had to input two lots of passport details that needed to be checked. The ESTA is then valid for a series of multiple trips over a 2 year period. It also only allows you to stay in the USA for 90 days or less.

When you arrive in the USA for your 2 week East Coast trip, you will probably get asked questions in the airport such as ‘purpose of your visit’ and ‘where are you staying’. You might also get asked about budget and things like that. The USA has a strict immigration policy so these questions are normal when entering the country.

When planning you USA east coast itinerary here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

• Check for any major events happening in a city before you visit. You don’t want to arrive somewhere and realise that a marathon is on for example, which means road closures and expensive hotels. And yes this did happen to us.
• This guide is based on flying, so if you are driving you might need more time to get between cities. The USA is huge!
• Really do your research on the cities you are visiting, and know which areas are good and which are best avoided.
• State laws can also differ so know the basics.
• TIP YOUR SERVER! In the UK and Australia I know this isn’t something we are used to as much, but in the US it makes up a large chunk of your servers wage.
• Get travel insurance, hospital visits are ridiculously expensive.

Ok before we get into the nitty gritty of an itinerary, you might be wondering why you should visit the East Coast in America?

If you love city breaks then the East Coast in America is a great place to visit. You have cities like New York, and Boston which are built up and compact compared to the likes of LA for example on the West Coast. The cities are exciting, and fast paced, with lots to see and do.

Weather in the East Coast in America, is varied depending on which part of the year you are visiting. You get warm sticky summers, and cold snowy winters. While parts of the West Coast tend to be a bit warmer throughout the year, the East Coast really experiences each of the four seasons.

If you are a culture buff then the East Coast is definitely worth a visit, particularly with world famous music schools, ballets and the theatre in places like New York and Boston. There is definitely more of a European influence on this side of the country, and you will see it with the buildings, and historic sites.

The more time you can spend on the East Coast the better, as there really is so much to see and do. We have created this USA East Coast itinerary for 2 weeks. This gives you enough time to settle in and explore at least the main cities that make up the East Coast. We are also focusing on mainly the Northern States because if you are looking at Florida and the other Southern States, you will need more time. If you are looking to see more of the USA, checkout our 2 week US travel itinerary here .

East Coast USA itinerary- day by day

Day 1 – Chicago

Day 2 – Chicago

Day 3 – Fly from Chicago to Washington DC

Day 4 – Washington DC

Day 5 – Washington DC

Day 6 – Fly to Philadelphia

Day 7 – Philadelphia

Day 8 – Travel to New York City

Day 9 – New York

Day 10 – New York

Day 11 – New York

Day 12 – Travel to Boston

Day 13 – Boston

Day 14 – Boston

This guide is starting in Chicago. For us this was because of flight schedules. Boston and New York are also large airports with a lot of European flights coming in daily, so these are also good options for starting your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary.

We recommend flying into Chicago. As mentioned above it isn’t on the East Coast, but it is such an incredible city that so many people overlook, and so we wanted to include it. We also wanted to fly out of New York City so decided to fly in to Chicago as there were a number of flights here. We got into Chicago late at night so we haven’t included that in our post. Feeling the effects of jet lag we went straight to bed so the trip really didn’t start until the next morning. For a more detailed guide, you can have a look at our 2 days in Chicago , but in the meantime here are the must do’s in Chicago.

Why visit Chicago

Chicago is a big city with a lot of flight options so a great destination if you are flying in from Europe for example. If you love big cities, architecture, and history Chicago is for you. There are lots of world class museums in Chicago, and some really good food too.

Chicago is a great introductory city on your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary as it’s not as hectic as New York, and it gives you the chance to get used to the culture and customs of the USA.

Wondering if Chicago is worth visiting ? Here is a handy guide.

Things to do in Chicago

☞ Architecture Cruise

This is a must in Chicago. The moment you arrive in the city you won’t be able to stop looking up, as the buildings are gorgeous. A cruise is a great way to orient yourself with the city, and particularly if you are still jet lagged you can just sit and stare at all the beautiful buildings.

There are a number of different cruises you can book and we have included some links below for you to look at. We do recommend booking your cruise in advance as these do get really popular particularly in the summer months.

☞ Navy Pier

The Pier is full of rides and restaurants and is a great place to go especially on a beautiful Chicago day. One of the must see attractions here is the Centennial Wheel. It reaches a height of almost 200 ft and has some pretty fantastic views of Chicago. Tickets can be  purchased online in advance , and you even have the option to skip the queue which is always handy.

☞ John Hancock Centre (360 Chicago)

A great place to go for some incredible views over the city and there is also a bar! You can’t visit Chicago without enjoying some incredible city views and John Hancock Centre is a great place to do this.

Purchase your ticket online in advance  to skip to queue.

☞ Willis Tower (Skydeck)

Another great place to enjoy the views of Chicago , but this time with a glass panel to get some really amazing photos. Willis Tower is probably the more iconic of the two viewing platforms in Chicago. Just make sure you get there early to try and avoid the swarms of tourists.

Again we recommend purchasing your tickets  online in advance .

☞ Millennium Park

This is where you go to take that selfie with the famous Chicago Bean. It’s also a really cool space to walk around and explore.

If you want to learn more about the park you can even  do a self guided tour .

☞ The Art Institute of Chicago

This is one of the best galleries in the country and houses works from Picasso to Andy Warhol. You can skip the queues and  purchase your tickets here in advance .

Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

When you are short of time sometimes the best way to get to grips with a new city whilst covering a lot of ground is to do a hop on hop off bus tour. You get to see all of Chicago’s top sights from the comfort of  a double decker bus .

Chicago obviously has a history laden with gangsters and criminals, so  this mob tour  is great if you are looking for something a little different. This was one of my favourite memories from visiting Chicago, and I felt like I learnt so much about the seedy history of the city but in a really fun and interesting way.

Getting from the Airport

Once you arrive in Chicago there are a few ways to get to the downtown area. The cheapest and often quickest way to get downtown is via the L Train. The Blue Line should have you in the downtown area in approximately 45 minutes.

If you are however, severely jet lagged and the thought of negotiating a subway line with giant suitcases scares you (you are not alone), then the next best thing is to get the airport shuttle bus. They are slightly cheaper than a taxi and take you straight to the front door of your hotel. Just be mindful that the journey can be quite long, particularly during peak hour. You can book and pay for your shuttle at one of the designated booths at the airport. The good thing as well is that you can pre book your return trip to the airport too.

Where to stay in Chicago

If you can, stay in the downtown area. Particularly on a short trip it makes it so much easier to get around in a limited time. We ended up visiting Chicago the same weekend as the Chicago marathon, so we had to book accommodation a little out of the centre. If you do decide to book accommodation out of the downtown area then make sure it is close to a subway line.

Eating and drinking in Chicago

Two things that you must do when you visit Chicago are, eat a deep dish pizza and visit a speakeasy. The deep dish pizza is one of those foods that you either love or hate. We happened to love it. There are a number of places in the city that serve it and we ended up at Pizano’s . To wash the dish down, you have to visit a speakeasy. Our top recommendation is the Green Door Tavern located in the downtown area.

Days 3 – 5 Washington DC

Flights from Chicago to DC are pretty regular and the flight time is just under 2 hours. Depending on what time you fly, you can either spend your morning exploring the last few bits of Chicago or if you take an earlier flight you can spend your afternoon exploring Washington DC. There are so many things to do in Washington DC particularly if you are visiting during the Cherry Blossom Festival . But if not here are some other things we think you might find interesting.

Things to do in Washington DC

Before we get into things to do in Washington DC, we should add that it is a really interesting place to visit. Most people think of politics when they think of DC and yes there is a lot of that, but there is also a lot of history. There are a lot of museums to visit and so much to learn here and it really is worth your time.

For a detailed 2 day Washington DC itinerary you can checkout this post.

☞  The White House

This is the obvious attraction. Even if you aren’t fond of the person in it, it is still pretty amazing to see. To me I think this is one of the most famous buildings in the world, so seeing it in person (albeit behind a gate from a distance) was such an amazing moment.

☞  The War Memorials

This was a poignant place to visit especially when you realise how many people have died as a result of war. The memorials are located in the National Mall and they honour those that fought in World War 2, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

☞  The Washington Monument

This is one monument along the National Mall that you cannot miss. It is an obelisk to commemorate George Washington, the first US president.

☞ Capitol Building

This is a truly impressive building, and you don’t have to understand politics to see that. You can go on a tour but security is really tight and the lines are really long. Again this is another building you see on TV so much so seeing it in real life is quite incredible.

One of the tours you can pre-book is this tour of Capitol Hill and the Library of Congress.

☞ The Holocaust Memorial Museum

This is probably one of the most moving museums you will ever visit. It really gives you a haunting insight into what happened during World War 2. There were times in here that I was moved to tears. It’s well worth a visit.

☞ Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Like most of the museums and galleries in DC this one is free. But the lines can get crazy quickly.Visiting early morning is generally ok and the lines aren’t too bad. There are so many cool things to see here from the first airplanes to space capsules. It is a really interesting place to visit as it reminds you of how the pioneers of air and space travel have impacted our lives today.

☞ National Archives

A visit to the National Archives will certainly be something to remember. Especially because you can see the original paperwork that saw the start of the great USA. You can even do a small group tour showing you the highlights.

☞ Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

You might be sensing a theme here with all the museums. Another brilliant one to visit the the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, which is home to the largest Natural History collection in the world. There is a lot to see, so if you are short on time you can pre-book a highlights tour here .

☞ Hop On Hop Off Bus tour

A Hop On Hop Off tour is a great way to learn about the history of Washington DC, whilst covering a good amount of ground too. You can book your tickets online in advance here .

☞  The Lincoln Memorial

If you are interested in history the Lincoln Memorial is the place where Martin Luther King Jr delivered his “I have a dream speech”.

Why visit Washington DC

Washington is great particularly if you are interested in politics. It is also home to some of the best museums in the country so it should not be missed.

You can get public transport into Downtown DC from the airport, but the quickest and easiest way to get to your hotel is to book an airport shuttle.

Where to stay in Washington DC

The main tourist sights and museums are all located around the National Mall, so ideally you want to stay around this area or at least close to a metro station. Downtown DC or Georgetown tend to be quite popular areas, but these areas tend to be slightly swankier and more expensive. Or why not treat yourself to one of the many Washington DC hotels with rooftop pools .

Eating and drinking in Washington DC

Keeping in mind there are a lot of foreign embassies in DC you will notice that food is influenced from all over the world. Chinese and Thai cuisine are really popular as well, and where you eat, will depend on the area you are staying in. If you get the chance, we recommend a food tour of Washington DC that gives you a taste (no pun intended) of what the city has to offer.

You can either fly from Washington DC to Philadelphia, get the bus, or the Amtrak. It’s under an hour flight time, which is your quickest option but if you are worried about costs you can get the bus. Although keep in mind that this could take around 4 hours depending on traffic.

Things to do in Philadelphia

☞ Liberty Bell

The Liberty Bell is probably the most recognisable symbol of freedom, particularly in the US. Make sure you get that all important Liberty Bell selfie!

☞ Independence Hall

This is the place in 1776 where the Founding Fathers signed the Declaration of Independence in the Assembly Room. If that is not impressive enough for you, a mere 11 years later this is where the US Constitution was created as well.

☞ Philadelphia Museum of Art

If you have watched the Rocky Films you will know that the Museum is home to one of the most famous running scenes in movie history. The Museum is also pretty impressive itself and is one of the largest in the country.

☞ City Hall

This is one beautiful building and is actually the largest municipal building in the USA.

☞ Reading Terminal Market

This is the USA’s oldest farmers market and is a total foodies paradise.

A hop on hop off bus tour is always a great way to orient yourself with a city, and you can pre-book your Philadelphia tour here .

☞ Eastern State Penitentiary

The Eastern State Penitentiary was once the most expensive and famous prisons in the world. And like Alcatraz Al Capone was once a prisoner here. To book your entry ticket in advance you can go to Get Your Guide .

Why visit Philadelphia

Some might say that Philadelphia is the birth place of the USA, so with that in mind who wouldn’t want to visit? Plus you have that delicious Philly Cheesesteak so there is that too.

The quickest and easiest way to get from the airport is via the train. There is a regional rail line that picks you up at the airport and gets you to the centre in about 25 minutes, and it is only $8.

Where to stay in Philadelphia

Ideally you do want to stay in the city centre. That way you will be close to transport links as well as the major tourist attractions.

Eating and drinking in Philadelphia

As mentioned above the Reading Terminal Market is a foodies paradise. There are stalls with local produce but also around 30 restaurants to chow down on some good quality food here. And since it is Philadelphia you HAVE to try the Philly Cheesesteak.

It takes about an hour to fly from Philadelphia to New York City, with several flights leaving everyday. You can also get a bus or travel via Amtrack. If you are driving you are probably looking at about 2 hours drive time. We would recommend getting into New York as early as possible.

As they say it is the city that never sleeps and you are going to want to spend as much time here as possible. Here is a comprehensive guide of things to do in case you want to delve a little deeper . We also have a guide for visiting New York when it rains.  

Things to do in New York

There is so much to do in New York it can be overwhelming deciding where to stay. Here is an overview. And if you want more ideas checkout our New York bucket list .

☞ Central Park

This vast green space in the middle of the city is a must. Here you will find row boats, fountains, horses and carts, and a garden dedicated to the memory of John Lennon, and that is just the beginning.

Central Park was a must for us especially because we had seen it so many times in the movies or on TV. In fact you can even do a  tour of Central Park  that takes you to all the famous filming locations.

☞ Brooklyn Bridge

One of the most iconic structures in New York has to be the Brooklyn Bridge. And taking the walk across is a must do when visiting the city.

☞ Empire State Building

Probably one of the most recognised buildings in New York is the Empire State. From the 86th floor you get some incredible views of the city, making you realise just how crowded New York City is. To skip the lines make sure you buy your  ticket online in advance .

☞ Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock is a great place to go if you want views of the city which include the Empire State Building. It’s also a cultural hub in the city, and home to the famous lighting of the Christmas tree in December.

If you are tossing up between the Empire State and Top of the Rock here is a handy guide to help you decide which one to visit.

Again tickets can be  purchased online in advance .

☞ The High Line

Created on a disused train track, the High Line is a garden oasis in the middle of a busy city. It is a great place to go to relax and take it all in.

☞ Statue of Liberty

Another must in New York is of course the iconic Statue of Liberty. You can either book a tour that takes you directly to Liberty Island as well as Ellis Island, or alternatively hop on the Staten Island Ferry to catch a glimpse.

If you go down the tour route you probably want to set aside a full day for this, as there is a lot to see and do. Also a tip, we tried to buy tickets on the day and spent ages queuing, so we highly recommend that you purchase these  online in advance .

☞ Explore the Neighbourhoods

New York has some incredible neighbourhoods. For a comprehensive guide and trip suggestions checkout this post .

☞ Visit the Museums

New York has some pretty amazing museums, from the Natural History to the Guggenheim. You cannot visit the city without seeing at least one museum. Also just putting this out there but there is an Ice Cream Museum in New York too. So literally a museum for everyone.

There are a number of airports in New York, and most of them have a shuttle bus that will take you straight to your hotel. Just be mindful that New York traffic can be pretty bad. But ultimately it is cheaper than a taxi which is handy.

Where to stay in New York

We ended up staying near Times Square which was great on a short trip, but if you are visiting for a bit longer, we recommend staying in one of the neighbourhoods like the East Village for example. There is a lot more atmosphere and you get to see the less touristy side of New York. No matter where you stay though, you really want to make sure you are near a subway station which will make getting around New York so much easier.

Eating and drinking in New York

We actually wrote a post all about the foods you need to try in New York . There is so much choice and it is hard to narrow down. There are some great places to eat and drink in the East Village including our favourite 24 hour Ukrainian diner  Veselka , it is also a great place for drinks and one of our favourite bars was The Immigrant . Another must is a visit to the Dominque Ansel Bakery which is of course the home of the famous Cronut.

Wondering is New York worth visiting ? This post will help you decide.

With our itinerary you don’t really get to spend a whole lot of time in Boston, which depending on what you want to do here is either good or bad. If you want more time in Boston obviously you can cut back a day in New York City. The flight from New York is a little over an hour and again there are regular flights daily.

Things to do in Boston

☞ Boston Common

This is the oldest public park in the US and is such a key part of the city’s landscape. It is great to visit all year round with the summer months full of people playing sports or reading. In the winter it is a great place to go ice skating.

☞ Boston Harbour Cruise

A harbour cruise is a must in Boston. There are several options you can book onto, some including food and drink.

☞ Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

For a hop on hop off tour with a difference you can do this tour on a trolleybus in Old Town Boston.

☞ Museum of Fine Arts

Here is a handy tip – you can actually enter the museum free on Wednesdays after 4pm.

☞  Go to Harvard

If you want to be able to say “I went to Harvard” followed by a very softly spoken ‘to visit’ then visiting the University is a must. The iconic redbrick walls and stunning architecture definitely make it somewhere you will want to visit.

☞ Freedom Trail

This 2.5 mile long trail takes you past 16 locations that are significant in US history. This is probably one of the best things to do in Boston and is well worth the walk. There are several different tours you can book on and we have added some below to give you a taste.

☞ Fenway Park

If you love baseball, or even if you don’t, Fenway Park is worth seeing. It is actually one of the oldest ball parks in the US and is home to one of the most well known Baseball teams, the Boston Red Sox. If you want to do a tour here is a great 1 hour guided tour you can book.

The easiest way to get to Downtown Boston is by bus before transferring to a train. If you hop on the free shuttle this will take you to South Station where you can transfer onto the Red Line train. There is also a water shuttle you can catch particularly if you are staying around the Waterfront area of the city.

Where to stay in Boston

Boston Common and Downtown are one of the more central areas to stay, however the financial district and waterfront are also popular. Boston is a beautiful city and relatively easy to get around so as long as you base yourself around public transport you should be fine.

Eating and drinking in Boston

One of our favourite places to eat in Boston has to be Chinatown. This is home to some of the best dumplings we have eaten. Donuts are also a pretty big deal in Boston, so make sure you eat plenty! In fact this is a really cool underground Donut tour that we recommend.

Taverns are also a pretty big deal in Boston, so you can also book yourself on a Historical Tavern Tour to learn more about the history.

Here is our East Coast USA map, that covers our trip itinerary.

You might be wondering if 2 weeks is enough for an East Coast USA itinerary. Honest answer No. But that might also be because it feels like no amount of time is enough to see the USA. As we only had 2 weeks, we did have to limit the number of places we visited on our trip. But all is not lost. A 2 week East Coast USA itinerary will give you enough time to explore a good 4 or 5 cities. You will be able to explore the key tourist attractions, eat some amazing food, and get to grips with the history as well.

If you want to explore more of the East Coast including the more southern states then you will probably want to add a good week or 2.

Before planning your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary you might be wondering when the best time of year to visit is. Summer is most definitely peak travel season (June – August). And you have that added stress in August of school holidays. If you are planning on traveling around the US at this time make sure that you book accommodation well in advance, as well as your tours and attractions.

Summer can be really warm on the East Coast especially in places like New York City. You might find it unbearably sticky at times. So if you don’t fancy walking around Central Park in the humidity this might not be the best time to visit.

The best time really to plan your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary will be in the shoulder seasons, so either spring (March- May) or Autumn especially September and October. Personally Autumn (or fall) is one of our favourite times to visit because you get to see the beautiful leaves change colour and begin to fall. It’s especially beautiful visiting somewhere like New York City, or Boston. Although spring in Washington DC is especially beautiful with the Cherry Blossoms.

Winters can be harsh in some of the places we have mentioned in this guide, especially Chicago and New York. So adverse weather may hinder your plans to see certain attractions. That being said December in New York is incredible with the build-up to the Christmas season. And there is something especially cosy about warming yourself in a pub in Boston on a cold winters day.

Ok, so budgeting for your 2 week East Coast USA itinerary is a tough one. It will all depend on where you want to stay, and what you want to see. For a mid-range holiday we would probably recommend budgeting about $3000 per person for the 2 weeks.

We found accommodation to be quite expensive in the USA, particularly if you want to stay in a central location in one of the big cities we have listed. On average you are looking at about $200 per night for a mid range hotel room that is centrally located. This can sometimes be more in places like New York and Chicago.

Food is slightly cheaper in the US then say Europe or Australia (but don’t forget to tip at restaurants), and you could probably get away with spending about $50 per person if you were trying to budget. Although cheap food usually doesn’t equal good food so keep that in mind.

Yes! If you are on the fence about planning a trip to the USA then take this as a sign to go. The East Coast is a really beautiful part of the USA, with incredible architecture, fast paced cities, and so much more.

We hope this 2 week East Coast USA travel guide and itinerary will help you plan your next trip. We recommend using this as a guide and tailoring it to suit your own needs. If you want more time in each place, maybe skip Chicago or Washington DC.

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

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I really like how detailed your itinerary is. Will definitely pin it for when I get chance to do this trip! Great one!

Thank you so much. Hope it helps!

Love this! I’m a west coastie, but I really need to get to the East Coast. This sounds like such a perfect trip!

Thank you! Exhausting and hectic but definitely very memorable.

Wow, this is a super itinerary! There are many places I’d like to see when visiting the USA 🙂 I have always wanted to explore the East Coast. Thanks for sharing this!!

Thank you for reading. There are certainly a lot of beautiful places along the East Coast. x

Comments are closed.

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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Kate Abroad

Ultimate 3 Week East Coast USA Itinerary (+ 2 and 4 week options)

The USA is not a small country so if you’re planning a trip it’s best to focus on one region and this 3 week East Coast USA itinerary is a great place to start.

This itinerary is really the highlights of the East Coast as it’s impossible to see the whole place in only 3 weeks. However, if you have a bit more time, there’s a 4 week East Coast variation that squeezes more in.

The itinerary is designed to start in New York, which is the easiest place to fly into and ends in Miami so you can choose to fly home from there or return via New York. If you have more time you could continue on cross country to Los Angeles (I did this in reverse on my second USA trip). 

3 week east coast road trip map

How to get around the East Coast on this itinerary

Even though the great American road trip is an iconic experience, and definitely the most flexible way to get around, this East Coast itinerary is designed to be doable by train using Amtrak. I’ve travelled the East Coast by both train and road and both options have their advantages. 

On the whole, trains are a lot cheaper and the rail infrastructure is really good on the East Coast so you won’t find the train schedule particularly limiting. However, if you decide to travel by train you will need to plan ahead as tickets increase in price closer to departure.

If you’re driving, I would recommend picking up your vehicle on the morning of day 4 when you leave New York. You won’t need a vehicle to get around New York and you can save money by not paying for those days, plus you’ll avoid the hassle of parking. 

Where to stay on your 3 week East Coast road trip or train trip

This itinerary doesn’t work very well for campervanning/taking an RV as it includes several big cities without central campsites so you’ll need to book accommodation for each night.

Unfortunately, accommodation on the East Coast of the USA is far from cheap but I have included hostel options where available. 

Affordable independent hotels can also be hard to find so you may want to commit to using one chain of hotels (Marriott or Hilton are the most widely available I found) throughout your trip so you at least end with some loyalty benefits. 

The 3 week East Coast USA road/train trip itinerary

Days 1-3: new york.

There’s no better place to start a USA road trip than the Big Apple, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of…. While you can (and I have) easily spend a week or more in NYC, 3 days is a good amount of time to see the highlights and get a taste.

I recommend structuring this first part of the East Coast itinerary as follows:

• Day 1 – Mid-town Manhattan
• Day 2 – Downtown Manhattan 
• Day 3 – Brooklyn and Uptown

On Day 1 you’ll knock off the big ticket items including Times Square and the Empire State Building . Take a walk around Central Park and window shop on Fifth Avenue.

Start the next day at the bottom of the island with a ferry trip to the Statue of Liberty, either the free Staten Island Ferry or the paid Statue Cruises (I’ve done both and the paid version is worth the money). Then stroll down Wall Street, touch the bull, visit the 9/11 Memorial and grab some noodles in Chinatown.

Finally, make your way across the Brooklyn Bridge, get your photos in DUMBO and eat your way through Time Out Market. Then spend the afternoon taking in thousands of years of art at The Met and seeing how the other half live on the Upper East Side.

To help save money on attractions, try a Go City pass . They have 2 and 3 day all-inclusive passes that would be perfect for this itinerary – click here to see how you can save .

Don’t forget to make time for plenty of pizza slices, lox bagels, pretzels and hot dogs!

• Luxury: Kixby
• Mid-range: Hotel Indigo Downtown
• Budget: HI USA Hostel

Click here to compare NYC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Day 4-5: Boston

Drive: 220 miles – approx. 3.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Moynihan Train Hall – approx. 4 hours

After the craziness of New York, head up north for a dose of history in Boston. Take your time exploring Boston on foot, the city is super walkable and there are historical monuments almost on every corner. 

There are plenty of walking tours available but I’d recommend just downloading an audio guide for the Freedom Trail and going at your own pace. And don’t miss the Boston Public Library, it might not be on the Freedom Trail but it was my favourite spot.

Boston is no less a foodie city than New York. While you’re there make sure to try a lobster roll, chowder, Boston Cream Pie and of course some Italian food in the North End including one of the famous cannoli from Mike’s or Modern Pastry.

On your second day in Boston, head out to Cambridge to see the Harvard campus (students run walking tours ) and try some of the fun student bars.

If you have extra time, you can take the train out to Salem to explore the witchy museums and filming locations. It’s only a short ride from Boston’s North Station or you can take a day tour from Boston . 

• Luxury: The Liberty Hotel
• Mid-range: Revolution Hotel
• Budget: Found Boston Common

Click here to compare Boston accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 6-7: Providence/Newport

Drive: 50 miles – approx. 1 hour

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Back Bay or South Boston – approx. 1 hour

Rhode Island, the smallest state in the USA, might not be on every East Coast road trip plan but it’s very much worth a visit.  

Providence itself is quite a small town with a very compact city centre. The main things to do are to explore the Rhode Island State Capitol – unlike the one in DC, here you’re allowed to just wander around at will and see all the rooms – and the Brown University campus.

The number one reason for coming to Providence however is because it’s the gateway to Newport, which you’ll want to dedicate at least one whole day to seeing. 

Newport is a beautiful seaside town full of cute boutiques and restaurants, but its biggest draw is the Gilded Age mansions.  These homes are straight out of The Great Gatsby and it’s 100% worth spending a few hours touring 2-3 of the mansions, you’ll feel like you’re in a European palace! 

While you’re in Newport check out the Cliff Walk, a stunning (but windy) hike along the ocean. Warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate or some of the famous New England clam chowder.

• Luxury: The Beatrice
• Mid-range: Graduate Providence
• Budget: Courtyard by Marriott Providence Downtown

Click here to compare Providence accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 8-9: Philadelphia 

Drive: 300 miles – approx. 4.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Providence – approx. 5.5 hours

If you didn’t get enough American history in Boston then don’t worry, there’s plenty more to find in Philadelphia. 

Historic Philadelphia is quite pretty with its open squares and occasional cobblestone streets. The main attraction here is Independence Hall which you’ll have to be organised to get into as it books out well in advance (despite visiting Philly twice I haven’t managed to go inside yet). 

Even if you miss out on tickets though you can still line up to go see the Liberty Bell across the street and wander through the remains of George Washington’s house. We also really loved the Museum of the American Revolution which is full of Revolutionary memorabilia and well worth a few hours.

One of the best places to go during your Philly stay is Reading Terminal Market. It’s a foodie paradise full of stalls churning out the best local dishes. And if you want to try an infamous Philly Cheese Steak then there are some great ones sold here (just look for the queues).

For a different side of Philly, go tour the Eastern State Penitentiary , once the biggest prison in the US and now incredibly haunting.

• Luxury: The Franklin on Rittenhouse
• Mid-range: The Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square
• Budget: Apple Hostels of Philadelphia

Click here to compare Philly accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 10-11: Washington DC

Drive: 150 miles – approx. 2.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Philadelphia 30 th  Street – approx. 2 hours

By Day 10 it’s time for a trip to the nation’s capital. One of the best parts of visiting DC is how much you can do there for free. There are so many museums, galleries, monuments and historic buildings to see it’s hard to know where to start.

One piece of advice, make sure to plan and book ahead because many places will book out months in advance or require anyone without an advance booking to queue, sometimes for hours in the full sun. 

If you want to go inside the White House it’s a whole process and to my understanding, you have to be a USA resident (the website says foreigners can book through their embassy but our embassy said they weren’t taking bookings post-COVID).

Some must-dos in DC include a walk along the National Mall, taking in the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, a tour of The Capitol and seeing the Da Vinci painting in the National Gallery.

• Luxury: Eaton DC
• Mid-range: Lyle DC
• Budget: Hotel Harrington

Click here to compare DC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 12-13: Charleston

Drive: 600 miles – approx. 9.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Meteor from Washington Union Station– approx. 10 hours (can be overnight)

After DC it’s time to head south and there are few cities in America’s South prettier than Charleston. This coastal town is famous for it’s stunning antebellum architecture, especially the “Rainbow Row” of colourful mansions.

While you probably don’t need a full two days to see Charleston, the atmosphere of the South is to take things a bit slower, so enjoy having the time to stroll along the oceanfront and take in the views.

Charleston is also great for foodies so this stage of your 3 week East Coast vacation is a great point to try some popular Southern foods including barbecue, grits, biscuits and pies. If you’re wondering where to find these, the Charleston City market is a good place to start with both food and trinket stalls so you can do your souvenir shopping at the same time.

• Luxury: The Palmetto Hotel
• Mid-range: Francis Marion Hotel
• Budget: Holiday Inn Express DWTN

Click here to compare Charleston accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 14-15: Savannah

Drive: 120 miles – approx. 2 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Meteor from Charleston – approx. 2 hours

If there’s one city that’s more beautiful than Charleston its Savannah, known for its countless squares lined with overhanging Spanish moss and full of graceful fountains and historic statues. 

Savannah is very walkable and the best way to discover it is on foot, popping into the cute boutiques down by the river (don’t miss River Street Sweets) and taking lots of photos. The classic Savannah photo is sitting on the bench from Forrest Gump where Forrest waits for his bus.

While it’s quite cliché and touristy, some fun Savannah activities include a river cruise or a trolley tour of the historic centre. 

You can also take day tours out to the surrounding plantations for a dose of history. Wormslow is the most popular for its photogenic tree-lined drive.

• Luxury: The Gastonian, Historic Inns of Savannah Collection
• Mid-range: Foley House Inn
• Budget: Springhill Suites by Marriott Savannah Downtown Historic District

Click here to compare Savannah accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 16-17: Orlando

Drive: 300 miles – approx. 4 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Star or Silver Meteor from Savannah – approx. 6 hours

It’s theme park time! You’re not on an American vacation without a bit of Disney (or Universal Studios) magic. Orlando is really all about the parks, so pick two and spend a day at each or go all out on one park and work your way around as many rides as you can.

I’ve done Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando and loved them both, but if you’ve done Disneyland in California then maybe go for something different like SeaWorld.

Personally, I went for the budget accommodation and spent all my cash on park tickets but there are some very fancy resorts in town so you could take the opportunity to stay somewhere nice. You’ll definitely appreciate a nice pool in the Florida heat!

• Luxury: Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
• Mid-range: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Las Palmeras  
• Budget: The Delaney Hotel

Click here to compare Orlando accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 18-19: Miami

Drive: 240 miles- approx. 3.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Meteor from Orlando – approx. 6 hours

Miami is such a unique place, it feels like a mix of Las Vegas and the Caribbean, it’s definitely somewhere you must experience on any East Coast vacation itinerary.

There are so many different sides to the city and you won’t get to see them all in two days but you can make a good start. I’d suggest staying in South Beach to immerse yourself in the beachy, glamorous side of the city but still be close to Downtown and Little Havana.

If you can tear yourself away from the beach, make sure to visit the Wynwood Walls with their famous collection of murals and leave time to explore the greater Wynwood area as there is so much street art around that you don’t have to pay to see. 

Also on the arty side, there are some very cool digital art exhibits in Miami. We went to Artechouse in Miami Beach, which is free to visit with a Go City pass , but Superblue in Downtown Miami is also meant to be amazing.

While you’re in the mainland part of Miami, head to Little Havana for a taste of Cuban-American food and culture. Calle Ocho, the main street of Little Havana, is definitely touristy but it’s still fun to explore, whether you’re keen on joining a game in Domino Park or a dance in one of the Cuban bars.

Finally, Miami is built on the water, so you’ve got to get out in a boat of some kind to see it properly. I’ve tried both the sightseeing cruise option and the speedboat option and they’re both fun experiences in different ways, depending on whether you want an adrenalin-fuelled ride, or you’d rather take it slow and get more commentary on the sights you pass. Both will let you see some of the insane celebrity mansions lining the shores of Miami’s island.

• Luxury: The Betsy Hotel
• Mid-range: Avalon Hotel
• Budget: Freehand Hostel Miami Beach

Click here to compare Miami accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 20-21: Florida Keys

Drive:  170 miles – approx. 3 hours

Bus (no train option): Grayline or Flix

Even though this East Coast in 3 weeks itinerary didn’t start at the top of the East Coast, it ends at the bottom, at the southernmost point of the USA in the Florida Keys.

While basically all of the Florida Keys are worth visiting, Key West is the best place to base yourself as it has the most accommodation and activity options. It’s a very fun place with a unique mix of chill beachy vibes and party atmosphere.

The drive there from Miami is incredibly scenic, so if you can take it slow and get heaps of photos. If you’re doing this East Coast trip without a car then you can book either a day trip or return transfers with several tour companies including Grayline who I’ve used in the past and can recommend.

While in the Keys, some of the fun things to do include snorkelling, diving, boat cruises and of course eating key lime pie!

• Luxury: Pier House Resort & Spa
• Mid-range: Opal Key Resort & Marina
• Budget: Southwinds Motel

Click here to compare Key West accommodation prices on Booking.com

Alternative: 2 week East Coast itinerary 

This shortened itinerary is very action-packed, suited to fast-paced travellers and those who want to see as much as possible in one trip. 

This is basically what I did on my first East Coast trip (but in reverse) and it definitely left me wanting to return and spend more time. 

• Philadelphia
• Washington DC

Alternative: 4 week East Coast itinerary 

This extended itinerary fits even more in, while also allowing some extra time in the top destinations for those who prefer to take things at a slower pace. 

• Providence/Newport
• Williamsburg
• Florida Keys

In Short: 3 Weeks on the East Coast of the USA

It’s hard to narrow down the best parts of the East Coast to a short itinerary as there’s so much to see and do and there’s no wrong way to see the USA. Hopefully, these East Coast itineraries give you some inspiration to get started.

P.S. Click here to find all of my USA trip-planning guides

Happy travelling!

USA Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find tickets for attractions and awesome day tours on Viator
• Save $$$ on attractions in NYC, LA, Miami and more with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your US dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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Amtrak Guide

By train travelers for train travelers, 10 best amtrak trips on the east coast.

Full of historic places, coastal towns and rolling mountains, the East Coast of the United States is great to explore by train. You can easily travel between major cities or enjoy a scenic train ride to quieter areas with beaches, parks and even ski resorts. Here are the best Amtrak trips on the East Coast to start planning your rail vacation.

This website is reader supported and not affiliated with Amtrak. We may earn a small commission from links on this page.

Niagara Falls

One of the most majestic sights in the United States, Niagara Falls can be reached via the Empire Service and Maple Leaf Amtrak routes (book tickets to Niagara Falls, NY). Trains depart New York City and other cities in New York state, including Poughkeepsie, Albany and Utica. On the way to the falls, you’ll travel through the beautiful Hudson River Valley and have views of the Hudson River (a fall trip is a great way to see the stunning foliage).

Due to the train schedule, it’s best to stay two nights in Niagara Falls area in order to have a full day to see the sights.

New River Gorge

The Cardinal Amtrak route is one of the most scenic on the East Coast, with travel through the New River Gorge in West Virginia. Consider booking your tickets to Charleston, WV from cities including New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Washington D.C. You can rent a car in Charleston and drive about two hours to reach the New River Gorge National Park (hiking, rock climbing, campgrounds, whitewater rafting). Or simply stay in Charleston until it’s time to board an eastbound train for the return trip back through the gorge.

From Chicago and other Midwest cities, travel to White Sulphur Springs Station to see the gorge and stay overnight at the Greenbrier Resort . One of the many resort activities is whitewater rafting on the New River — fees apply, but transportation is included. Alexandria and Washington D.C. are also good places to end the trip due to the nearby airports in case you want to fly home.

Keep in mind that the Cardinal only runs three times per week, so you may see unavailable dates when searching for tickets.

A ski getaway, fall foliage destination and charming summer vacation spot, Vermont is a year-round destination. Vermonter trains travel through the scenic Hudson River Valley and views are also beautiful once you are in Vermont, especially in the fall and when snow is on the ground. You can connect with trains on this route in cities including Washington D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York City and New Haven.

The state capital is Montpelier (pictured above). Book your tickets here for fresh maple syrup, hiking trails at Camel’s Hump State Park and ski resorts, including Smugglers’ Notch (water park open in the summer), Bolton Valley, Stowe Mountain, Mad River Glen and Sugar Brush. The Ben and Jerry’s factory tour in nearby Waterbury is also a must-do if you like ice cream.

In addition to Montpelier, Burlington is another recommended city for an overnight stay. It’s a college town on Lake Champlain with a waterfront bike path , many summer events and nearby ski resorts.

Maine is a charming summer or fall Amtrak trip from Boston on the Downeaster route . In addition to views of scenic villages, marshes, streams and the coastline, you can get off the train to explore beaches, festivals and nature areas. Book tickets to Wells , Saco or Old Orchard Beach (pictured above) to spend time near the ocean. The  Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge  and Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve are also unique places to visit in Wells, and kids will love  Funtown Splashtown USA  in Saco and the  Palace Playland  in Old Orchard Beach.

Foodies should consider a Maine train trip in the fall to check out the Harvest on the Harbor festival in Portland . September is also a great time for a trip; you can visit Maine’s lighthouses for free during Maine Open Lighthouse Day .

Two East Coast Amtrak routes travel to Canada, so if you have a valid passport, you can take an international trip via train. Book tickets on the Maple Leaf to visit Toronto or on the Adirondack to reach Montreal (pictured above). Both trains depart from New York City, and you’ll have wonderful views of the Hudson River Valley before crossing the border.

Which city should you visit? Montreal has a European atmosphere and lots of history and parks to explore. Travel time from New York City is about 11.5 hours. Toronto is larger than Montreal and very cosmopolitan — lots of shopping, entertainment, multicultural neighborhoods — similar to Chicago and New York City. Travel time on Amtrak is about 13 hours from Manhattan. Plan to stay in Canada at least two nights if you want time to sightsee.

Escape the cold weather (or head to the beach any time of year) with an overnight train trip to Florida from major cities on the East Coast. The Silver Meteor , Silver Star and Auto Train travel to many Amtrak stations in Florida . You must transport a vehicle and pay the related fees to travel on the Auto Train, which departs near Washington D.C. and travels non-stop to Sanford, Florida.

There are beautiful water views in Maryland and Virginia, and you’ll go to sleep in the Carolinas and wake up in Florida, making the trip go by quickly, especially if your destination is in North or Central Florida. Popular stops include Orlando (for Universal Studios and Walt Disney World ), Tampa, West Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale and Miami.

Blue Ridge Mountains

Most people use the Northeast Regional to travel between big cities on the East Coast, but trains also travel into Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains. Select Roanoke as your destination, which is in a mountain valley near many hiking trails and places to mountain bike and paddle . As a bonus, the Virginia Museum of Transportation is in town, which has many railroad exhibits.

Due to the train schedule, you’ll need to stay in Roanoke at least one night. Plan to stay two or more if you want to take a drive on the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway , visit local attractions or enjoy the many outdoor activities. You’ll also need to start this trip north of the mountain range, such as in Charlottesville, Alexandria, Washington D.C., Baltimore, Wilmington, Philadelphia or New York City.

Allegheny Mountains

The Capitol Limited route also provides mountain and river scenery on the East Coast. Trains travel through the Allegheny Mountains in Maryland and Pennsylvania, plus stop in two historic mountain towns: Harpers Ferry, West Virginia and Cumberland, Maryland . Both destinations are near hiking trails and historic attractions, plus you can ride the Western Maryland Scenic Railroad in Cumberland.

To quickly get to the most scenic part of the trip, start in Washington D.C. From there, you can travel 3.5 hours to Cumberland or stay on the train for a few more hours until Pittsburgh . You can also start the trip in Chicago and from cities in Indiana and Ohio and travel overnight to reach the mountains. Plan your trip in late spring or summer to view the most scenery.

Dutch Country

The Keystone Amtrak route travels through Dutch Country farmland from New York City, Philadelphia, Newark (including the airport station) and other cities on the East Coast multiple times each day. It’s a relaxing day or overnight trip that’s great for families, couples or solo travelers. Exit in Lancaster to learn about the Amish community, purchase local food at Central Market or have a fun-filled day at Dutch Wonderland .

Harrisburg , Pennsylvania’s capital, is another destination to plan a trip around, especially in the summer. The charming city is on the Susquehanna River, and top attractions include the National Civil War Museum and State Museum of Pennsylvania . Hersheypark and Hershey’s Chocolate World are also about a 25-minute drive away. Uber and Lyft are transportation options if you don’t want to rent a car.

New Orleans

For a long-distance train adventure, New Orleans is at the end of the Crescent route, which departs from many cities on the East Coast. You’ll travel through small towns and cities in the Southeast before crossing over Lake Pontchartrain via the longest railroad bridge in the United States.

Be sure to check out the amazing food, music and festivals in New Orleans while you’re there. You can walk or ride streetcars around the city to explore the Garden District , French Quarter , Jackson Square and old cemeteries . Other top sights include the National World World II Museum , Audubon Zoo and the New Orleans Museum of Art .

Plan to stay in New Orleans at least two nights if you want to have a full day in the city. You can then take a train or flight back to the East Coast or continue your rail vacation by booking tickets on the Sunset Limited or City of New Orleans routes. Trains on these routes depart from New Orleans and travel through Texas, Arizona, California, Mississippi, Tennessee and Illinois. Top destinations include Chicago, Memphis, Houston, San Antonio, Palm Springs and Los Angeles.

More Information

• East Coast Amtrak Routes
• 10 most scenic Amtrak routes
• Best Amtrak trips from Boston
• 15 best Amtrak day trips from NYC
• 8 best Amtrak cross-country trips
• 20 best Amtrak trips from Baltimore
• 5 most scenic Amtrak routes on the East Coast
• Amtrak’s 15 long-distance routes and the places they go

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Scientists Warn of 'Giant Invasive Spiders' About to Take Over the East Coast

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I'm just gonna come out and make this clear from the jump: I don't like spiders. Never have, never will. I don't like people who are cruel to spiders, because they're living creatures like anything else, but you're never going to see me get enthuasiastic about them- especially giant ones.

So, you can probably guess that I wasn't too thrilled about this news: scientists are warning of an imminent "giant spider" invasion that's about to take over the East Coast. OK, so there's a bit more to it than that, which we'll go into, but the long and short of it is that we're definitely looking at a giant spider takeover. Are you ready?

At least by "giant spiders," we're not talking city-smashing kaiju size. As vlogger  @niickjackson relays, these are Joro spiders, a species of the large orb-weaver spider that, until just ten years ago, were only endemic to China, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan. In 2014, American researchers suddenly started seeing specimens of the non-native spider around Atlanta, Georgia . A 2015 study , linked in the Live Science piece on Joro spiders that Jackson is quoting from, suggests that the spiders came to the US via shipping container.

Related: Australian Traveler Gives a Skin-Crawling Reason for Avoiding Greyhound Bus Trips Down Under

This is where things start getting creepy-crawly. Over the past decade, the Joro spiders (which can grow up to 3 inches across and weave 6-foot-diameter webs) have spread out even further. Joros have established themselves in Georgia, North Carolina , South Carolina, and Tennessee, with possible sightings reported in several other states. And they're not done spreading out yet...

A Spider for All Seasons

So far, the Joro spider has mostly established itself in the American Southeast. However, they're not necessarily limited to warmer climes. A 2022 study published in the journal Physiological Entomology suggests that the Joro spider can withstand living in colder climactic regions than just in the South. This tracks with what we know about Joro spiders in their native habitat, considering that they can be found in places with more temperate climates like Korea. 

Because of their cold weather hardiness, their propensity to parachute hundreds of baby spiderlings out over 100 miles, and a surprising resilience to urban environments, scientists have reason to believe the Joro spider will soon establish their foothold in major cities all the way up and down the Eastern seaboard. Sorry, New England - nowhere is safe.

Are We Doomed?

The "bad" news is that there's no way to stop the Joro spider invasion. whether you like it or not. The good news, however, is that having Joros around might not actually be that bad.

First of all, despite their enormous size, we don't have to worry about their bite, unlike with more venomous native spiders like black widows and brown recluses. According to a 2022 piece from Live Science , the Joro spider's bite is rarely strong enough to break through skin, and their venom doesn't pose a threat to humans, cats, or dogs unless they're allergic. 

You probably won't have to worry about one even  trying to bite you, though. In a 2023 study from the University of Georgia, researchers used gentle "air puffs" from turkey basters to lightly startle some Joro spiders to see how they'd react. Most spiders would only remain immobile for less than a minute to such stimuli, but the test Joros stayed frozen for more than an hour. The researchers went so far as to suggest that the Joro spiders could be "the 'shyest' ever documented."

Finally, while many invasive species are detrimental to native ecosystems, the Joro spider might actually do us some good. In 2022, NBC News noted that Joros are one of the few types of spider that will eat invasive brown marmorated stink bugs , a very destructive insect capable of wiping out agricultural crops. The Joros are picking up the slack from our native spider population, potentially helping to control a much more harmful species in the process!

Joro spiders are here to stay- and so far, that actually seems like a good thing. I'm still going to shudder every time I see one, but I'll admit, they've begrudgingly earned my respect. And I, for one, welcome our new arachnid overlords !

For more WanderWisdom updates, be sure to follow us on Google News !

Have you had a funny, interesting, or just highly memorable experience while traveling? We'd love for you to submit a video of your travels for a chance to be featured on WanderWisdom and our social channels! Click here to upload your clip and share your adventures with the world. 

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Historical Tours & Trips in East Coast USA

Explore a wide diversity of historical tours through East Coast USA. We have 72 adventures that vary from 3 days to 23 days. With the greatest number of departures in September, this is also the most popular time of the year.

72 historical East Coast USA tours with 577 positive reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

American Gateway – 4 Days

The tour itself visited great sites. The first two days guide did not give clear instructions on such things as where to go to exit places, where toilets were etc. I often had to ask outside people or other tour guides these things. She had a colleague who had fights with the driver in front of the clients. This colleague also stopped the clients from using the bus toilet by forcing the lock closed with a coin. The hotel at Niagara was at least 2 miles from the falls and we were expected to walk into the town to see the illuminations and fireworks. This entailed walking back at midnight in the dark and up hill. We had a bus and driver with us. I would have been happy to pay to be driven in and back. There were no taxis apparently. I did not go as this was too much physically and to dangerous for a woman to do

East Coast Camping Adventure

Great Eastern Cities

Great trip overall. Would highly recommend. Wish everything was included but optional trips and meals were not. Otherwise well done and loved by my family.

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Georgia History Trail to Nashville

• Coach / Bus

New York City, Niagara Falls & Washington DC

New York City, Niagara Falls & Washington DC with Extended Stay in New York City

New York and Washington

Unmissable Canada with East Coast

New York Uncovered (4 Days)

I loved this tour and our guide Jon was great. However it should be advertised as a 3 day tour as the 4th day is just check out of the hotel, no activities.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Historic Highlights (8 Days)

Sites were fabulous!

Boston Cape Cod & The Islands (Classic, 8 Days)

Cons: 1. Daniel Webster Inn was over-rated. Would not stay there again. 2. Visit to the Plimouth Plantation was a waste of time. Spent way too much time there. 3. Transportation from Logan Airport to the Boston Hyatt was a mess!!!! No signs, no directions, and the taxi driver had no idea what to do with the voucher. Ended up paying for the taxi! Ridiculous!! 4. Service at the included dinner at the Daniel Webster Inn was horrible!! Kathy (our waitress) should be fired! However, the food was delicious! 5. Not enough time spent in Nantucket. 6. Way too much time spent at the Breakers in Newport. 7. This should not be considered an 8-day tour. All we did on day 8 was ride on the bus to the airport! Pros: 1. Tour director Robin was outstanding!! Wellness director, Brittany, was also fabulous! 2. Canolis, Cape Code Chips and Cape Codders on the bus was a nice touch! Thoroughly enjoyed the snacks on the bus! 3. Ferry to Martha's Vineyard was fun! Thoroughly enjoyed the talk session/information about the Martha's Vineyard Camp Meeting Association. Very interesting. 4. Local guide tour of Nantucket Island was great! Lots of interesting information. Not enough time spent in Nantucket. 5. Loved the Harbor View hotel! 6. Sailing on the Adirondack II was THE BEST!! Need to offer more than one Mimosa! 7. Luggage service was great.

Roaming Coastal Maine featuring Portland, Acadia & Penobscot Bay (Portland, ME to Freeport, ME) (2024)

America's Historic East with Extended Stay in Washington DC

There was much information, history given. At times the pace was too fast; as I think back now that I am home the various places are kind of a blur. Several places we were just not given enough time to explore, local guides seemed pressured under timelines. Sometimes “free time this afternoon “ was just too short,rushed and not relaxing. Baltimore was one example. Finding food when not provided was kind of a challenge; buying dinner at a grocery store was quite novel, but the store had much to offer. More quidance as to what is offered in each area would be helpful.

Colours of New England

Our guide, Yvonne DeWit, was excellent! Organized, knowledgeable, informative. Interesting variety of stops from rugged Maine to quaint Vermont to historic Boston with much in between. Would highly recommend this tour and look forward to another one.

What people love about Historical Tours in East Coast USA

Overall the 2 tour guides were good, especially Brian who guided us from NJ La Quinta to Philadelphia, Amish Country to DC and back to NY. Loved his sense of humor, his knowledge- will definitely recommend him to anyone! Great job Brian! And thank you !!

Very nice, well organized, good tour

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