30 best places to visit on the east coast

24 Best East Coast Vacation Spots

Written by Shandley McMurray Updated May 3, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

No matter what you're into, you'll find it in the East Coast's best vacation spots. A wonderland of enticing vacation destinations, this fabulous slice of the United States offers a slew of varied experiences — from skiing down Vermont's Green Mountains to lying on one of Florida's pristine beaches .

Dreaming of riding horses on the beach with your kids? Head to the Outer Banks in North Carolina. Craving an opportunity to better your golf game? Practice your skills on Hilton Head Island in South Carolina . Want to show off your mad shopping skills? New York City is where it's at.

If you have trouble narrowing your vacation destinations to just one, consider taking one of the top East Coast road trips . No matter what type of escape you're dreaming of, plan it with this list of the best East Coast vacation spots.

1. New York City, NY

2. block island, ri, 3. ski resorts in vermont, 4. myrtle beach, sc, 5. boston, ma, 6. florida's best beaches, 7. miami, fl, 8. newport, ri, 9. outer banks, nc, 10. virginia beach, va, 11. cape cod, ma, 12. savannah, ga, 13. martha's vineyard, ma, 14. hilton head, sc, 15. charleston, sc, 16. washington, d.c., 17. bar harbor, me, 18. rehoboth beach, de, 19. shenandoah national park, va, 20. acadia national park, 21. chincoteague island, va, 22. portsmouth, nh, 23. mystic, ct, 24. asheville, nc, map of east coast vacation spots.

Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline

No East Coast vacation would be complete without a trip to its most vibrant metropolis — New York City. There's so much to do here that you'll never get bored, no matter your interests. From designer shops to spy museums to modern art galleries to some of the world's best restaurants, New York has it all.

Take a stroll through Central Park , have lunch at Tavern on the Green , cross Brooklyn Bridge , climb the Statue of Liberty , catch a Broadway show , or board a ferry to Staten Island . The possibilities are literally endless.

Since the city never technically sleeps, you'll find exciting things to do in New York City at all hours of the day and night. Plan your visit right to ensure the best weather and the smallest crowds. For those perks, the best time to visit New York City is between April and early June and September to early November.

Read More: Best Free Things to Do in New York City

Looking for somewhere to kick back, relax, and soak up the scenery? Block Island will fit the proverbial bill. A laid-back isle nearly 12 miles off the southern coast of Rhode Island , this idyllic spot is revered by those who like to take things slow, which makes this one of the best East Coast vacations.

Most people flock here for its summertime fun. Home to some of the best beaches on the East Coast (over 17 miles of them), the island also features over 350 freshwater ponds that attract incredible species of birds and other animals.

Trapped in the past, this picturesque island boasts an adorable main town, which serves as a port for the ferry you'll need to board to get here. Old Harbor is peppered with quaint historic homes and the most charming Inns. The 1661 Inn is one of our faves.

Insider's tip: The Island's few inns and hotels book up quickly, especially during summer. Book your stay at least six months in advance.

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in Rhode Island

Vermont and skiing go hand in hand, or should we say boot in binding? Home to many of the best ski resorts on the East Coast , this luscious state is where you'll find winter wonderlands like Okemo Mountain Resort , Stratton , Jay Peak , and Stowe Mountain Resort .

While these four areas comprise some of the best ski resorts in Vermont , there is a slew of other ski-worthy mountains rising above magnificent valleys throughout the state. Vermont's impressive Green Mountains create a spectacular backdrop and an even better terrain for tackling fresh powder and moguls.

Its slopes are well-manicured and diverse. Whether you're a beginner searching for a smooth bunny hill with a view or an expert skier hoping to find an extreme challenge, you'll find it in Vermont .

Read More: Best Things to Do in Vermont in Winter

Oh, what fun you will have at Myrtle Beach, one of the best places to visit for an East Coast vacation. From 60 miles of soft sand to caress your feet to fun fair rides to thrill the kids, there's no shortage of things to do at this exciting South Carolina hot spot.

Home to one of the best East Coast beaches for families, a vacation to Myrtle Beach won't disappoint. Dubbed the Grand Strand by locals, this Atlantic Ocean beach is the perfect place to swim, SUP, or walk the boardwalk (you'll find live entertainment here on warm summer evenings).

Plus, there are a ton of funky restaurants and shops to keep you busy, all within walking distance of the beach. When you're all sick of the sun, head to the area's best attractions, including Ripley's Aquarium , the Hollywood Wax Museum , and Myrtle Beach SkyWheel .

Not sure where to spend the night? Check out these amazing resorts in Myrtle Beach for families.

Read More: Top-Rated Beaches in South Carolina

It's hard to avoid falling in love with Boston, especially if you visit when the weather is favorable. Perhaps the most historic city in the United States, this coastal hub is a must-see for all types of travelers.

Walk the Freedom Trail to see Boston's most important historic attractions , grab a bite in Quincy Market , catch a ball game at Fenway Park , or climb aboard a boat for a sightseeing cruise around the harbor (pronounced "hah-bah").

Art galleries, theaters, and museums pepper the city's storied streets, enticing East Coast visitors to step inside and enjoy their eclectic offerings. While you're in town, be sure to take time out to explore Boston's best parks .

Boston comes alive with music at all times of the year, so be sure to make time to attend a concert or two. Don't worry if winter is the only time you can travel — there are plenty of fun things to do in Boston in winter .

The Sunshine State is a haven for beach lovers. Home to many of the nation's best beaches (we're talking about you, Miami Beach , Fort Lauderdale Beach , and Cocoa Beach ), the area boasts an average of 237 days of sunshine a year. Whoo hoo! Pop over to the Gulf Coast and check out the beaches around Naples or Fort Myers .

Whether you're looking to relax with a good book on the soft white sand or ride the waves at a more active beach, Florida has a perfect beach for you and your family .

St. Augustine , which features a wide, sandy beach, is one of the state's oldest settlements. Its town is painted with history. From the Spanish Military Hospital Museum to Ponce de Leon's Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park , there are plenty of tourist attractions in St. Augustine to keep you busy when you've had enough of the sun.

More on District of Columbia

30 East Coast Historical Sites You Need to Visit

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Learn about the best historic sites, landmarks, attractions on the East Coast of the United States!

The East Coast of the United States is full of some of the best historical sites in the US. The East Coast is special as it features historic sites and landmarks that chronicle the country’s earliest history from colonization to social and political conflict. These historic sites in the US demonstrate how early American history and culture were shaped and developed throughout the centuries into what we know today. Because there are so many interesting historical sites on the East Coast, you can easily make a historical vacation out of them!

Come explore the best historical sites on the East Coast with us and plan your historical vacation!

Top East Coast Historical Sites, Attractions, and Landmarks

Acadia national park.

You may think that Maine’s Acadia National Park is nothing more than beautiful granite mountaintops and a dazzling coastline sprinkled with lush forests and ponds, but you’d be mistaken. The park boasts incredible history in addition to its stunning scenery.

Before Acadia became the first national park east of the Mississippi River, Mount Desert Island was known for its ritz and glamor. After seeing paintings of the scenery, wealthy New England families built vacation homes here and would spend their holidays and weekends on the island shores. Families included the well-known Carnegies, Astors, Morgans, Fords, Vanderbilts, and Rockefellers. Unfortunately, a great fire in 1947 consumed most of the extravagant estates.

Other than the impressive houses you will still find on the island, my favorite historical element of the park is the carriage roads. There are approximately 45 miles of these rustic, unpaved roads throughout the park. The roads were gifted to the park by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. who desired to travel Mount Desert Island on motor-free roadways. They’re popular for cycling and hiking today. My favorite aspect of the road system is the marvelous stone bridge.

For hikers who consider themselves historians, Acadia is one of the best places to visit. By 1915, there were already 200 miles of trails established on Mount Desert Island. If you walk on any of Acadia National Park’s trails, you’ll be walking in the footsteps of American Indians, early European settlers, and the wealthy elite in addition to outdoor enthusiasts like yourself

In addition to the historic elements of the park, there are plenty of things to do in Acadia . The park is popular for hiking and camping as well as auto touring and biking in addition to boat tours that focus on history and wildlife. To visit, bring your national park pass or $30 to admit your party for the week.

While most come to Acadia for the scenic views, those coastlines are layered with stories of perseverance and preservation. Every grain of sand provides insight into the lives that came before and transformed Acadia National Park into what it is today.

Contributed by Riley of the Parks Expert

Boone Hall Plantation

When visiting Charleston in South Carolina make sure you venture out of town a few miles. Just outside the city in a peaceful parkland in Mt. Pleasant, you can visit one of the oldest American plantations that still grow crops to this very day. Boone Hall Plantation is significant in American history because the plantation was lucrative and the descendants of the first owner were influential in the politics of the colonies as well as the whole country for many decades.

Boon Hall Plantation is open all year and offers tours of the property as well as the grand mansion. They also offer seasonal activities so check their website for details and dates. The cost for a single ticket is around $26 and $12 for children. Take your AAA card for discounts.

As you drive towards the grand mansion, slow down to a minimum speed to fully enjoy the ride under the majestic canopy of live oaks. It took them over two centuries to grow and connect their tops into a tunnel.

The current Boon Hall Plantation owner still lives on the top floor of the mansion, which means you’ll enjoy the guided tour of the ground level only. Besides the grand house, there is more to see. Check out the slave quarters, boathouse, crop garden, and flower garden. Don’t forget to take a selfie under the live oak trees – you’ll never forget that view.

Learn more about the Boone Hall Plantation in this awesome video by Slavka from On2Continents.com

First African Baptist Church in Savannah, GA

Founded in 1773, First African Baptist Church stands proudly in the Historic District of Savannah, Georgia, only a few steps away from the popular City Market.

The church has a long and fascinating history as both a congregation and a cultural touchstone and is one of the oldest Black congregations in the United States.

First African Baptist Church was founded and built–literally and figuratively–primarily by enslaved people, and the building itself was finished in 1859, just two years before the outbreak of the American Civil War.

Since then, the church has survived not only the Civil War, but the Reconstruction Era and the Civil Rights Movement, just to name a few.

During the 19th century, the church served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, carefully concealing people escaping slavery beneath its floorboards–today, you can still see the holes drilled into the floor that allowed those on the run to breathe while remaining concealed.

Tours of First African Baptist Church are given three times a day on Tuesday-Saturday (11am, 2pm, and 4pm), and once at 1pm on Sundays. Tours cost $10 USD.

It’s not possible to visit the interior of the church without a tour, but it’s well worth including First African Baptist Church in your Savannah itinerary , as it is a fascinating historic landmark and home to an important piece of the city’s history.

Contributed by Kate of Our Escape Clause

Learn more about some of the awesome National Parks on the East Coast !

Walter Gropius House

Significance

The home of German architect Walter Gropius and his family was built in 1938 in Massachusetts. Gropius was a revolutionary architect who founded the Bauhaus school in Germany. When he came over to the US to teach at Harvard, he designed his home himself. Gropius had a big impact on modern architecture.

What you can expect

Today, you can tour the fully furnished house. You can see the terrace he designed so his daughter could sleep under the stars and the dining room table lit by a single spot light from above so as to encourage people leaning in for lively conversation and so much more.

Even the library is still filled with Gropius’ books. They also host events, such as recitals and theme parties. For upcoming events see the Gropius House website .

Planning your visit

At the time of writing, admission for adults is $25. The Gropius House is located at 68 Baker Bridge Road, Lincoln, Mass. 01773 which is roughly a half hour drive from Boston. As of 2019 there is an app you can use to learn more about Gropius and his house, available from the website.

I visited the house in the fall, when the foliage in New England is beautifully colored. It’s a very scenic drive out from Boston through the forests, so I can highly recommend visiting during that time of year. Walter Gropius paid a lot of attention to the connection between the house and its environment, so best to go in a season when you can take full advantage of that.

Contributed by Christin of Christin has Fernweh Follow along on her Pinterest for more travel tips!

Cape Hatteras Lighthouse

Of all of the historical vacation destinations on this list, the Outer Banks is our personal favorite! The Outer Banks in North Carolina is home to many adorable (and historic!) lighthouses, but one of the most interesting and beautiful is the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse which is located in the town of Buxton. It is in the middle of the Cape Hatteras National Seashore and reachable as an easy trip from almost any Outer Banks town. The lighthouse protects an especially dangerous portion of the coastal waters where the Virginia Drift meets the Gulf Stream. Because of the dangerous waters, this is also an interesting place to scuba dive as there are many shipwrecks from the Colonial era through World War II. The lighthouse was commissioned in 1794 and completed in 1802. The current tower was built in 1868 after the original was damaged during the Civil War.

The Cape Hatteras Lighthouse no longer is in use and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The National Park Service operates the Hatteras Island Visitor Center and Museum of the Sea in the old lighthouse keeper’s quarters. You can also climb to the top and enjoy fabulous sea vies. The lighthouse is located at 46379 Lighthouse Road in Buxton. Tickets for entry to climb to the top are $8 for adults and $4 for children and seniors.

Contributed by Stephanie of the History Fangirl

The Freedom Trail

Boston, Massachusetts is one of the best cities to visit that contains so many historical sites. The Freedom Trail is one of Boston’s main historical sites. This 2.5-mile long path connects 16 historical sites across Boston. These 16 sites had a great impact on the American Revolution and the founding of the United States. There is no cost to walk the Freedom Trail and many of the sites are also free or inexpensive to get into. One of the paid sites, the Paul Revere House, charges a $5 admission fee. To get around to the stops, visitors just need to follow the brick path that easily links the sites.

I recommend starting the trail at the Bunker Hill Monument. This ensures you can climb the tower when it is less busy and you are less tired when you climb the 294 steps to the top. Make sure not to miss the museum that covers the history of the Battle of Bunker Hill. Although the Americans lost this battle, the British suffered devastating losses, thus impacting them in the war. Other must-see sites along the Freedom Trail include the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship in the United States, and the site of the Boston Massacre. At the end of the Freedom Trail is the present-day state capitol building and the Boston Common, the oldest park in the United States. These sites along the Freedom Trail represent the foundations of America and portrays to visitors the process it took to become the country the United States is today.

Contributed by Francesca of Homeroom Travel. Follow along with her on Instagram

Castillo de Dan Marcos

Castillo de San Marcos is right on Matanzas Bay in St. Augustine, Florida , the oldest city in the US. It is $15 per person since it’s a walk-in park, but if you have a national park pass, that will get you in, too. There is parking at the fort, it can be used to explore the town which is very convenient, and it is $2.50 per hour. During your visit, you can do a self-guided tour of the fortress with a map and brochure, watch a demonstration by re-enactors, or do a ranger program if there is one going on. I would plan for 1-2 hours here, depending on what is going on during your visit.

So, what’s up with the fort? Well, it’s the oldest masonry fort in the US with construction beginning in 1672. 107 years after the city was founded, and while Florida was still under Spanish rule. It is made up of Coquina stones and passed through many hands and was besieged twice. However, in 1924 it was named a National Monument and after 251 years of continuous military possession, it was deactivated in 1933 and turned over to the National Park Service. Even if you’re not a huge history buff, this is a great place to visit and offers wonderful views of the bay and the city.

Contributed by Megan of Red Around the World. Follow along with her travels on Instagram

Gettysburg National Battlefield

Gettysburg is a small town located in Pennsylvania that was a key player in the American Civil War. The town dates back to 1761 when Samuel Gettys laid ground to a small tavern in the area for soldiers and merchants to rest. Gettysburg gets its true place in history as the location for one of the American Civil War’s largest battles that is known as the turning point in the war. The battle was fought July 1st to the 3rd in 1863 and saw the largest loss of life in one battle for the entire war. The battle was a win for the union and inspired the “Gettysburg Address” by President Lincoln

Gettysburg has much to offer in the form of American history. You won’t want to miss the Gettysburg National Military Park, the site of the battle. The area is largely an open field, but it has so many stories to tell. Throughout the park, you will see a number of different statues and monuments commemorating the lives lost during the battle. Tops sights to see within the Military Park include Seminary Ridge, Devil’s Den, Little Round Top, and Cemetery Ridge.

Aside from the Military Park, Gettysburg has much to offer. Visit the Jennie Wade home, the home of the only civilian killed in the battle, visit one of the many museums such as the Gettysburg Museum of History, take a ghost tour of the battlefield, or stroll main street for quaint, cute shops and great food. Be sure to try some Philly Cheesesteak while there! Gettysburg is a fairly inexpensive destination as many of the top sights have no entrance fee. The National Military Park is free to enter as well as many of the top historical sites within the town. Many of the museums do have entrance fees, but are inexpensive. If you want to bring home some unique souvenirs the costs may add up, but a trip to Gettysburg can be done on any budget.

Contributed by Melissa of Navigation Junkie Follow along with her on Pinterest for her latest travel tips!

Fort Sumter

Fort Sumter, located on a small island in Charleston, South Carolina, was the site where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. Commonly known as the location where the Civil Wat began, a visit to Fort Sumter is perfect for those who love history.

To get to Fort Sumter, you will need to take a short (ten minute) ferry ride. Fort Sumter Tours is the only form of transportation available to the island. You can take them from Patriot’s Point (in Mount Pleasant), or Liberty Square (where the Visitor’s Center is located). While it is free to visit the National Monument, the ferry does cost $24 per adult and $16 for kids.

Once you are at the fort, there is plenty to see and explore. The fort itself is in good shape and there are many artifacts from the time (including cannons and artillery). The park rangers are there to answer any questions and sometimes offer tours. When our family visited Charleston, the rangers were very helpful and explained what happened on April 12, 1861, and Lincoln’s role during the battle. The kids participated in the Junior Ranger program and the whole family was involved in helping them complete the activities. It was a great learning experience for the entire family and a unique thing to do during our East Coast trip.

Contributed by: Margie of DQ Family Travel. Follow along with their adventures on Instagram

Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon is a must-see historic site along Virginia’s Potomac River, and is famous for being home to American’s first president. George Washington lived here starting in 1754, and was later joined by his wife, Martha, and her two children. During Washington’s residence at Mount Vernon, he served in the French and Indian War, helped America win its independence from Great Britain, and eventually was sworn in as President of the United States.

A visit to Mount Vernon provides an intimate look into the lives of the Washington family, while also showing how people lived in 18 th century America. While the property consisted of 3,000 acres of land and a 3,500 square foot home when Washington first moved in, throughout his residence, he helped expand it to 7,600 acres with an 11,000 square foot mansion. A lot of this labor was done by enslaved workers living at Mount Vernon, of which there were 317 by the time of Washington’s death in 1799.

There is much to do during a visit to Mount Vernon. You can tour the Washington home, visit the Washington family tomb, explore the grounds, and learn about the slaves who lived and worked there. If you have extra time, watch the 4D film featured in the Revolutionary War Theatre, tour the museum to see the Washingtons’ personal belongings, such as George’s dentures, or dine at the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant.

Entry to Mount Vernon costs $20 for adults, $12 for kids age 6 to 11, and free for children younger than that. It is smart to buy tickets in advance, since you will be assigned a time slot to tour the house. The earlier you book your tour the better, especially on a weekend, as crowds will swell by the afternoon.

Contributed by Theresa of Fueled By Wanderlust Follow along with her adventures on Instagram! @fueledbywanderlust

Valley Forge

It isn’t much of an exaggeration to say that if it wasn’t for that winter of 1777 in Valley Forge , the United States may not exist. At the time the Continental Army was reeling from losses, including their capital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. It was in December of 1777 that General George Washington and 12,000 troops encamped at a then-unknown village just outside of the capital for what would be a six-month stay.

Over that winter, the troops trained and gained new confidence. By June, the Americans were in pursuit of the British and defeated them at a battle in New Jersey. Valley Forge was, indeed, a turning point in the American Revolution.

Today, 3,500 acres are preserved at Valley Forge National Historic Park for visitors to experience just want those soldiers experienced more than two centuries ago. The park is a mix of wooded areas and rolling meadows with trails meandering throughout.

Visitors can get an overview of the history at a museum that is home to artifacts found at the site. Then you can explore the site by car for the self-guided 10-mile Encampment Tour. There are parking lots throughout so that you can get on foot for a closer look at monuments (such as the massive National Memorial Arch) and reproduction log cabins. Occasionally you’ll see reenactors pop up around the park.

But don’t forget to simply enjoy this beautiful suburban park, too. Tourists tend to congregate around the historic sites but there are plenty of wooded trails to enjoy.

Entrance to Valley Forge National Historical Park is free. Trolley or bicycle tours of the site do charge a fee.

Contributed by Corinne of Reverberations. Follow along with her on Instagram !

Charleston, South Carolina

Best known for its cobblestone streets and palmetto-tree-lined streets, the city of Charleston, South Carolina is a true gem of the Southeast. Here, it’s not uncommon to hear the hooves of a horse-drawn carriage in the morning silence, or smell the scent of freshly, hand-baked buttermilk biscuits. Pastel antebellum homes contrast against clear blue skies, while visitors stroll through a city stuck back in time. Read below to find out why Charleston is consistently ranked as one of the top cities in the world.

Charleston’s Role in US History

Today, Charleston’s famous Battery Park promenade and Waterfront Park welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors to its banks each year. However, more than 150 years ago, the area was a key component of South Carolina’s defense strategy during the Civil War. Here, Confederate soldiers placed cannons to protect against possible Union invasions. While they were were never fired, they still stand today to remind travelers of course-altering eras in American history. Across the junction of the Ashley and Cooper Rivers, one can see Fort Sumter, the spot where the first shots of the Civil War rung out.

Where to Eat, Stay, & Play in Charleston

Charleston is no stranger to great southern grub. In fact, there are so many top-ranked restaurants there, that it would be impossible to visit them all even in one week. Two hot-spots that are a must to visit are Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit (get the pimento cheese), and Husk (the menu changes based on what local farmers produce). After a good meal, stroll through downtown to Rainbow Row. Keep going straight and catch Waterfront Park at sunset — look for dolphins splashing around!

Visiting Charleston: Know Before You Go

As one of the oldest southern cities in the United States, there are endless opportunities to learn about the city’s rich cultural history just by walking. Expect to pay a bit more for accommodation and meals ($35 per day on average). Visit the official Charleston.com for information on travel restrictions and openings.

Contributed by Alexandra of East Coast Contessa .

Plimoth Plantation

Of all the places to visit on the east coast, Massachusets has the most historical vacation destinations! Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, MA, is one of the most significant historic sites to visit on the East Coast of the United States. About 40 miles south of Boston , the town of Plymouth is the site of the famous Plymouth Rock, where the pilgrims first arrived from England in 1620 on their ship, the Mayflower. The nearby Plimoth Plantation is where they set up a village, friending the local Wampanoag residents, and where the first Thanksgiving celebration took place as a celebration of friendship and the bountiful harvest. That celebration has gone on to be one of the most important holidays in America each November.

A perfect place for kids of all ages, visitors first learn about the site in the visitor center after watching a short film about the site’s history and what they will see.

From there, visitors experience the Wampanoag Homesite and structures that were typical of the Wampanoags, the Native People, whose descendants are still living in the area to this day. In fact, the Wampanoags you will meet in the Homesite are not actors. They are modern-day Native People of the Wampanoag community dressed in traditional clothing but who will speak from a modern perspective. It is a great way to interact, get an idea of what life was like for the Wampanoags during the 1600s, and ask interactive questions, but it is important to be respectful of their culture.

You can then venture into the historic 17 th century English Village, which contains numerous houses you can enter. The village houses host role-playing guides dressed in period clothing acting as an English colonists of the time. The English colonists ARE actors who remain in character, though they do not perform a script. They interact as if they are in the time period and share a variety of fascinating information specific to the questions asked by the visitors. From what they are cooking to the religious beliefs of the group to all about what led to the first Thanksgiving, it is a fascinating way to learn more about such an important event in American history. My kids absolutely loved our visit, which interestingly enough was a bitterly cold day in November, giving us a first-hand experience of what life was like for the Pilgrims.

Tickets cost $32 for adults, $19 for kids ages 5-12, and $29 for seniors.

Following your visit to Plimoth Plantation, head over to see the actual Plymouth Rock and tour the Mayflower ship in downtown Plymouth. Tickets for the Mayflower are $15 for adults, $12 for kids ages 5-12, and $13.50 for seniors.

Contributed by By Keri of Bon Voyage With Kids and follow along with her on Facebook ! Learn more about visiting the Boston Freedom Trail with kids !

Pilgrim Monument

One of the many things to do in Provincetown, Massachusetts is to pay a visit to the Pilgrim Monument. This historic site commemorates the first landing of the Mayflower Pilgrims in Provincetown in November 1620. What many people don’t realize is that the Pilgrims landed in Provincetown five weeks before they landed on now-famous Plymouth. Additionally, the Mayflower Compact , the first written document that referred to how the new colony would be governed, was signed aboard the ship while docked at Provincetown Harbor.

The Pilgrim Monument was built from 1907 to 1910 and can be seen from miles away. It is 252 feet tall and it is the tallest all granite structure in the US. You can climb to the top in about 10 minutes. The views from the top are quite incredible and you can almost see the Mayflower off in the distance.

The monument also has the Provincetown Museum at its base. Inside are exhibits that showcase the history of the area, including more information on the Pilgrim landing and Native American artifacts. Admission is $17 for adults and includes access to the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum. It is located in downtown Provincetown. It does have its own parking lot, but if you’ve already found a parking spot in town we suggest walking to the monument.

Contributed by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling and follow along with her on Instagram .

Harper’s Ferry West Virginia

One historical site on the East Coast that is worth a visit is Harpers Ferry National Historical Park in West Virginia. Located at the junction between the Shenandoah River and the Potomac River, Harpers Ferry is also at the crossroads of Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia. Because of its advantageous location, as well as the railroad that went through it, this site was a hot commodity during the Civil War, changing hands eight times in four years.

Even before the Civil War, Harpers Ferry was historically significant as the site of John Brown’s Raid in 1959. John Brown was an abolitionist who attempted to start a revolt across the South by raiding the arsenal. Colonel Robert E. Lee and Stonewall Jackson were among the troops that ended the raid. For non-Civil War history, Harpers Ferry is a great place to learn about the Niagara Movement, which held its first meeting in America here, the Appalachian Trail Conservancy, headquartered here, and even a visit from Thomas Jefferson.

Harpers Ferry National Historical Park consists of the lower part of Harpers Ferry, while the Historic District is above it. Both the park and the district are laid out to mix recreations of historic buildings, events, and people with regular small-town businesses and restaurants. This, along with the free guided tours and historical markers throughout, allow for a history-rich atmosphere no matter where you are. Combine this with river views, fewer tourists, and no chain restaurants or hotels in sight, and this is the perfect historical getaway.

If you plan a visit, make sure to stay in a Bed and Breakfast, historical of course, and be aware that parking is limited. Whether you want to learn more about its history or a chance to just get away for a bit, Harpers Ferry is well worth a visit.

Contributed by Jordan of The Solo Life

Best Places to See Fall Foliage in West Virginia

5 reasons why you should travel to west virginia, 6 outdoor adventures in west virginia you need to go on this summer, top things to do outdoors in morgantown, west virginia: parks and trails in morgantown, historic jamestown.

Jamestown, Virginia, was the site of the first permanent English settlement in the New World, founded in 1607. From that tiny colonial foothold in North America came so much of the good (representative government) and the bad (slavery, conflict with Native Americans) that makes up American history. This is where it all started.

Historic Jamestowne, unlike the Jamestown Settlement living history museum nearby, is the actual site of the original colony at Jamestown, Virginia. It is part U.S. National Park (Colonial National Historical Park) and part active archaeological site managed by Preservation Virginia. Plan to allow half a day for your visit to Historic Jamestowne. To get the full Jamestown experience, spend the morning at Jamestown Settlement and use the afternoon for your visit to Historic Jamestowne .

You can purchase tickets ahead of time online or at the Visitor Center, and make sure you pick up a map. The guest services representative will tell you when the next showing of the orientation film is starting (recommended) and what tours or activities are available. National Parks Service rangers are excellent tour guides. They are great at setting the scene and providing important historical context, especially if you’re at a site that requires a bit of imagination, like Historic Jamestowne, where not much remains of the original town.

Regardless of whether you do the tour, use the official map to help you with your visit. It will guide you to important stops such as the hundred-year-old Memorial Church, statues of Pocahontas and John Smith, archaeological dig sites, the site of James Fort, the Voorhees Archaerium, and the Ambler Mansion. The Archaerium displays many artifacts unearthed from the digs around Jamestown Island.

Contributed by Darcy Vierow from Plan, Ready, Go and Follow along on Pinterest

Manassas National Battlefield

The Manassas National Battlefield Park is the site of two major American Civil War Battles. The town of Manassas just to the north of the battlefield was of strategic importance during the Civil War as it was where the Manassas Gap and Orange and Alexandria railroads joined, providing for a direct connection from the Shenandoah Valley and the Washing Richmond Railroad. The Confederate forces won the First Battle of Bull Run and the Second Battle of Bull Run in 1861 and 1862 respectively. It was during the first battle that General Thomas Jonathan Jackson received the nickname ‘Stonewall”, having been compared to one by a fellow officer. The first battle of Bull Run was the first major land battle of the Civil War.

The Manassas National Battlefield Park was established in 1940 and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. There is a visitor centre (open from 0830 until 1700) on Sudley Road near the south entrance to the park which includes exhibits Civil War-era uniforms and weapons and a map of the battle areas. The 45 minute Manassas orientation film is a must-see. The site has been preserved much as it was in Civil War times. Entrance to the site and guided tours are free and it is best to experience the site through a guided tour– details here .

Contributed by Sarah Carter of Lets Grow Cook

West Quoddy Lighthouse

Though you wouldn’t guess it from its name, the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse is the easternmost building in the continental United States.

Perched on a peninsula on the northeastern tip of Maine, West Quoddy Headlight is half an hour’s drive from Lubec , a charming fishing town on the Canadian border. The little lighthouse (and its predecessors) have guided ships through the Quaddy Narrows strait dividing the US and Canada since 1808. Lighthouses are essential in any coastal town, but this one was particularly important: thick fog engulfs the area for more than half of the summer. The original lighthouse’s foghorn logged more hours than any other lighthouse in the US in 1885!

Even if you’re not a sailor, there’s more than one reason to navigate your way to the lighthouse. Show up early enough, and you’ll be one of the first people in the US to see the sunrise. Even better, you won’t have to deal with the crowds at the US’ most popular sunrise spot, nearby Acadia National Park. Try to show up at least half an hour before sunrise; the blue hour is almost as beautiful as the golden hour after the sun rises. The entrance to the area is free.

Contributed by Alex of Lost With Purpose Follow along with her on Instagram !

Capitol Building in Washington DC

A list of the top historic sites on the East Coast cannot be complete with one of the most important buildings when it comes to political history. The Capitol.

The Capitol is the meeting point of the House of Representatives and the Senate, and a symbol of the American people and their government. The building was finished in 1800 and has witnessed many historic events ever since. For example, the inauguration of every president, independence day celebrations, or national memorial day concerts.

After Washington D.C. was chosen as the new capital of the US design competition was held for the U.S. Capitol too. Of about 10 entries, the design by William Thornton won. Thornton’s design was inspired by the French Louvre and Pantheon, which explains why the Capitol is a characteristic neoclassic building.

You can learn more about the Capitol, the design, history, and US politics by joining one of the free tours, which you can book in advance if you please or arrange at The Capitol Visitor Center. Besides a tour, you can also explore the visitors center and check out one of the exhibitions, as the Capitol is also a center for American art. Again, visiting these exhibitions and the visitor center are free of charge.

The Capitol Visitor Center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday, with the last tour leaving at 3.20 p.m.

Make sure you arrive at least 15 minutes before the time of the tour as you need to go through The Capitol security, which may take some time!

Contributed by Lara from Both Feet On The Road , a solo female travel blog written by the clumsiest and worst photographer on earth to give practical and realistic tips on how to travel the world! Follow along with her on Facebook !

Brookgreen Gardens Sculpture Garden

Especially when the display of that art is so unexpected, refreshing, and new to us. Honestly, we’d never heard of most of the American sculptors whose work is displayed at Brookgreen Gardens near Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, and we were so glad to make the introductions. Brookgreen Gardens, which is designated a National Historical Landmark, contains the largest and most comprehensive collection of American figurative sculpture in the country, with over 2,000 works by 425 artists. It contains almost exclusively figurative art–that is, human and animal figures from nature, history, and mythology. I’m especially fond of figures from the classical mythology field, and there are plenty of those. Oh, and the gardens and fountains that surround the sculptures are spectacular.

Brookgreen Gardens was founded by railroad heir Archer Milton Huntington and his wife Anna Hyatt Huntington to feature sculptures by Anna and her sister, Harriet Randolph Hyatt Mayor. The sisters made sure the works of other significant American sculptors were also included in the collection. Brookgreen Gardens was opened in 1932, and is built on four former rice plantations.

The famed Huntington Museum, Library, and Gardens in Los Angeles were founded by the same family. Allow at least several hours to walk the gardens and see the sculpture. If you do it justice, it may even take more than a day. If you have children, or if you’re a child at heart, don’t miss the special exhibits of charming animals and figures designed especially to amuse the young ones.

Adult admission is $18; seniors are $16; children 4-12 are $10; younger children are free. When you arrive, you can exchange tickets purchased online for seven-day passes so you can come back if you miss anything.

Contributed by Tom of Travel Past 50. Follow along with his travels on Facebook

Ellis Island, New York

Ellis Island is one of the most popular historic sites to visit when visiting New York City . Just a short ferry ride away from New York City and Liberty Island is Ellis Island, known as the gateway through which many new immigrants from Europe entered the United States.

The island’s immigration station was in operation and processed immigrants from 1892 to 1954. During this time period, over 12 million immigrants arrived on the island, detained, and questioned before proceeding to their final destination in the United States. It has been said that over half of the American population have at least one person in their family history that has passed through Ellis Island.

Ellis Island is part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument and you can visit both Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty during the same trip. If you’re leaving from Battery Park in New York City, your ferry ticket to Ellis Island covers both with Liberty Island being your first top and Ellis Island the second. Ferry tickets are offered through Liberty Cruises and include admission to Ellis Island as well as the Statue of Liberty. They range between $19 and $22.25 for adults and $9 and $12 for children depending upon which Statue of Liberty admission ticket you chose.

There is so much to see and learn at Ellis Island, it is definitely worth the trip to see!

Contributed by Constance of Adventures of Panda Bear. Follow along with her on Instagram

Best Summer Weekend Getaways on the East Coast

Best cities on the east coast, discover the best east coast waterfalls, 10+ best hikes on the east coast you need to experience, best winter weekend getaways on the east coast, best east coast national parks you needs to visit, women’s rights national historic park.

The many exhibits in the Women’s Rights National Historical Park paint the picture of women’s place in US history. The park is a tribute to the suffragists who fought to secure women’s voting rights in the United States. It’s located in the heart of the Finger Lakes region in Seneca Falls, New York. The park is a perfect stop off the New York Thruway when headed to Niagara Falls.

A gathering of animated life-size bronze statues is the first thing you see when you enter the Visitors Center. The statues depict people prominent in the women’s rights and abolition movements. More exhibits upstairs on the political life of women can fascinate for hours.

The informative ranger-led tour is worth taking. It takes you past the stunning stone water wall inscribed with the Declaration of Sentiments, a women’s rights take on the Declaration of Independence. Next you will visit the Wesleyan Methodist Church. You will learn about the first Women’s Rights Convention held here in 1848. The convention was the first step in a long journey ending in 1920 with the passage of the 19th Amendment giving women the right to vote.

The home of Elizabeth Cady Stanton, who many consider the main sparkplug for the first convention for women’s rights, is another site to visit. There is also an interesting self-guided walking tour of the historic village of Seneca Falls.

The Women’s Rights Park is a fee-free national park with free entrance and tours. It’s a wonderful place to bring the whole family. The achievements of women striving to gain equality for all promise to inspire everyone.

Contributed by Karen of Outdoor Adventure Sampler and follow along with her on Facebook .

Statue of Liberty, New York

Of all of the East Coast landmarks and attractions, the Statue of Liberty is among the most famous and recognizable symbols of the United States. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984, the Statue is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. The Statue depicts Libertas, the Roman goddess of liberty, breaking out of her chains and striding forward. Interestingly, the statue was actually a gift to the United States from the government of France, where it was designed by sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi and constructed by Gustav Eiffel (who would later build the Eiffel Tower). The statue opened in 1886 and now stands as an icon of freedom. New migrants arriving by boat to the United States would pass directly under the statue, and it came to represent the hopes and dreams of a new generation of Americans.

To visit the Statue of Liberty, you’ll need to buy tickets from the National Parks Service which administers the area. From the NPS you’ve got three options: a ferry ticket which provides access to Liberty Island (currently $19.25 for adults, cheaper for children and seniors), a Pedestal ticket which provides access to the statue’s stone pedestal, or a Crown ticket to access the viewing platform inside Lady Liberty’s crown (extra $3). Note that Pedestal and Crown tickets require advance reservations, particularly for Crown tickets. It’s strongly recommended to reserve tickets in advance from the National Parks Service, as many dishonest and aggressive third-party sellers hang around the ferry departure point at Battery Park.

If you’re on a super tight budget and don’t mind just having a close-up view of the statue, there’s also a free option: the Staten Island Ferry which departs every 30 minutes from Whitehall Ferry Terminal in Manhattan. The ferry runs directly past Liberty Island and provides an excellent vantage point.

Contributed by Joel of World Heritage Journey

Art Deco Historic District of Miami

The Art Deco Historic District in Miami’s South Beach neighborhood combines vibrant buildings with an equally vibrant atmosphere. The mixture of quirky, colorful buildings built in a combination of iconic Art Deco, Mediterranean Revival, and MiMo (Miami Modern) styles is an architectural feast for the eyes – and a must on any Miami bucket list .

With over 900 buildings, the District boasts the largest concentration of Art Deco architecture in the country. Built between 1923 and 1943, the unique building styles feature ornate statues, geometric fountains, porthole windows, chrome accents, and exotic flora motifs dotting their whimsical pastel walls. In 1979, the District became the first 20th-century neighborhood to be recognized by the National Register of Historic Places.

You can see the colorful District and all of its splendor by walking along Ocean Drive, Collins Avenue, and Washington Avenue between 5th and 23rd streets. To explore the Art Deco Historic District, you can either take a guided walking tour or discover the area on your own. If you choose the latter option, I recommend passing by the Art Deco Museum and Welcome Center on Ocean Drive for more insight on the architectural styles and cultural heritage of the neighborhood.

Be sure not to miss famous buildings such as party central the Clevelander Hotel, the Spanish-style mansion Villa Casaurina – the former home of fashion designer Gianni Versace – and the oceanliner-inspired curves of Señor Frog’s.

If you decide on a walking tour, the Miami Design Preservation League offers a variety of tours depending on your preference. You can choose from the official Art Deco walking tour, a self-guided audio tour, or private group tours.

If you’re looking for something unique in Florida, add the Miami Art Deco Historic District onto your bucket list. With tons of things to see and do, you won’t only learn about Art Deco architecture; you’ll also be inspired by the neighborhood’s buzzing atmosphere.

Contributed by Rosalie of Coastlines to Skylines . Follow along with her on her Instagram !

Kennedy Space Center

Not viewed as a historical site by most people, Kennedy Space Center at Cape Canaveral is absolutely packed with awesome history. For those interested in the history of America’s space exploration, there isn’t a better location to visit in the whole country. Even better, you can still catch rockets blasting off from the launch pads!

You’ll easily be able to see all that Kennedy Space Center offers over the course of a single day. Get there early to avoid some of the crowds and potentially hot or rainy afternoon weather. I’d advise catching the earliest bus tour of the launch sites. This also takes you out to the Apollo/Saturn V museum which is absolutely massive. The sheer size of the Saturn V rocket stored here will leave you speechless and in awe. The Saturn V is the marvelous machine that propelled our brave explorers to the surface of the Moon. The bus tour itself is super informative as well, so enjoy the ride!

Once you’re finished being stunned by the Saturn V, you’ll get the opportunity to explore the Space Shuttle Atlantis. The shuttle program was an amazing feat of American engineering and served to solidify NASA as the premier space agency. Atlantis is a marvel and the fact that you can get so close to something that spent hundreds of days in space is amazing. You’ll also want to pay your respects at the memorial dedicated to the astronauts who lost their lives in the Challenger and Columbia disasters which is located here.

I’ve barely scratched the surface of what you need to see at Kennedy Space Center. Admission prices are $57 for adults and $47 for children. You can also add on the extended bus tour for just $25 which is a great value if you want to extend your day. Kennedy Space Center is a great combination for anyone who loves science and history!

Contributed by Zack of Florida Man on the Run. Follow along with his adventures on Facebook . And read more about responsible heritage tourism on his blog!

Jekyll Island, Georgia

Jekyll Island in south Georgia was once the most home to “the richest, most inaccessible club in the world”. From 1886 to 1942, the Jekyll Island Club operated during the winter month, aka Club Season. The club roster consisted of the most wealthy families in America, like the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and Morgans. All winter long, the families would gather in rolling parties, creating powerful alliances, strategic marriages, and countless backroom deals. Two of the most historical events at the Jekyll Island Club were the first transcontinental phone call (along with San Francisco and New York) and the secret meetings to form the Federal Reserve.

During WWII, the club fell into disrepair and ultimately disbanded. In 1947, Governor Melvin E. Thompson gained control of the island for the good of the people of Georgia. The artifacts and furniture from the wealthy homes disappeared, and between mismanagement and human rights complaints about the use of convict labor, the project was a complete failure.

In the mid-eighties, a project began to preserve the history by promoting tourism. Today, the former Club grounds comprise a 240-acre site with 34 historic structures. The Jekyll Island Club National Historic Landmark, one of the largest ongoing restoration projects in the southeastern United States, maintains the 240-acre former Club grounds 240-acre with 34 historic structures. Most of these structures were the winter mansions of the club members.

Visitors today can enter the island for an $8 fee, which gives them access to the historic district. However, a trip to Jekyll Island can be so much more. You can dine in the historic grand dining room or stay as a guest at the Club House or one of several cottages. The Jekyll Island Museum offers a guided tour including entrance to several of the historic structures. Another great way to see Jekyll Island is by bike. There are over 20-miles of Jekyll Island bike trails all through the historic district, as well as the natural areas, which inspired the club’s formation in the first place.

Contributed by Jenn and Ed of Coleman Concierge. Follow along with their adventures on Instagram !

Newport Rhode Island Gilded-Age Mansions

The Gilded Age historical mansions in Newport were built as lavish summer “cottages” in the late 1800s to early 1900s by some of the wealthiest Americans. Families like railroad tycoons, the Vanderbilts designed their 70-room “Breakers” mansion in 1893 with fixtures, furniture, art, and décor from around the world. Ten of these historical sites have been lovingly preserved and are open to the public. They’re all near each other, and many overlook the Atlantic Ocean. When you visit, you’ll see a snapshot of life in the Gilded Age when the upper class went to great lengths to create extravagant displays of wealth. If you take a servant-life tour, you’ll also see the stark contrast between the wealthy owners and the servants that lived, worked and depended on them to survive.

Whatever your interests, you’ll find a variety of tours, exhibits and events covering architecture, landscapes, social life, fashion, design, fine arts, and history at the Newport Mansions. You can purchase tickets online or at any of the homes. Adult tickets start at $18 for 1 property and go up from there, depending on which property or tours and how many you’d like to visit. Allow a minimum of 1 to 2 hours for each one, to enjoy the home tour, grounds and gift shop. Most of the houses are in the Bellevue Avenue-Ochre Point neighborhood of Newport.

Tips: The operating schedule for each house varies seasonally, so plan ahead and check the website to see which homes, tours and hours are available. If you love Christmas, then late November through January 1st is the perfect time to visit and see the homes lit up and decked out in their holiday glitter.

Find out more about Newport Mansions here .

Contributed by Nancy Hann. Follow Nancy Hann at Traveling with Purpose on Instagram

The Museum at Eldridge Street

There is no better place to explore the Jewish history of New York City than the Museum at Eldridge Street! The museum is housed in the historic Eldridge Street Synagogue, one of NYC’s most stunning cultural and historical landmarks. Eldridge opened in 1887 as the first grand synagogue built by the Eastern European Jewish community in the United States. Now, over 125 years later, the museum shares the story of the millions of Jewish immigrants who moved to New York in search of a better life and new opportunities in a new land. Eldridge offers guided tours starting hourly. The guides are true subject matter experts and many actually have a personal connection to the museum or neighborhood! Even better: the tour is already included in the admission price!

On the ground floor of the museum is a small permanent exhibit and digital tables showcasing the building’s history and an introduction to Jewish beliefs and practices. More than just a history museum, Eldridge is truly an architectural masterpiece. Walk into the main sanctuary and take a step back in time to the turn of the 20th century. Meticulously restored walls painted in a trompe l’oeil marble design, original pine floorboards and even stained glass windows that the NY Times have described as ‘gasp-inducing’. The star of Eldridge Street is actually one of the newest additions to space: the contemporary stained glass window designed by artist Kiki Smith and architect Deborah Gans. Like the dynamic nature of New York’s ever-changing cityscape, the vibrance of this window reminds us that even historic sites like Eldridge are still alive and vivacious over 100 years later! If you’re on a budget, Mondays are ‘Pay As You Wish’. Visitors of all backgrounds and faiths are welcomed with open arms, and visiting is a great opportunity to learn more about Jewish practice and synagogue architecture. Note the museum is closed on Saturdays and Jewish holidays. Check the website before planning your visit.

Adults: $15

Students & Seniors: $10

Children 5-17: $8 (under 5 are free)

Contributed by Courtney of Courtney in the Middle Seat

Fort Jefferson, Florida

Dry Tortugas National Park is one of the most remote National Parks in the US. It is located around 80 miles southwest of Key West, Florida.

Within the Dry Tortugas National Park lies an imposing Fort Jefferson, one of the most strategic fortress to defend the United States of America. Its location was chosen to protect both the Gulf of Mexico and Straits of Florida from approaching enemies ships. Even though it has never seen a battle, Fort Jefferson has assisted many ship routes, including the Spanish-American War in 1898.

Construction started in 1846 for the next thirty years with bricks brought from both sides of the US during the Civil War. Upon completion, Fort Jefferson holds the title of the largest brick masonry structure in the Americas.

You can join in the complimentary guided tour of Fort Jefferson, led by the Parks Ranger. Or, if you opt to enjoy the natural beauty of Dry Tortugas, you can do some popular water and beach activities, including snorkeling in some of the most pristine environments Florida can offer.

There are only two common ways to get to Dry Tortugas National Park from Key West. Fly with a seaplane costs around $356-625 roundtrip, or the most popular one with a Yankee Freedom III ferry for $180. Both will require you at least half a day to do.

Contributed by Halef and Michael of Around the World Guys. Check out their adventures on their Youtube Channel !

Are you ready to plan your trip to some amazing historical sites on the East Coast?

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The Best East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year—And Beyond

By Paul Rubio and Alex Erdekian

Image may contain Road Landscape Outdoors Nature Scenery Freeway Highway Panoramic Aerial View Tarmac and Asphalt

Perhaps more than any form of travel, the road trip is stamped in the American imagination. And when it comes to an East Coast road trip, no region is as underrated. Sure, it lacks the sprawl of the middle and west of the country , but the vast number of states, four distinct seasons (beyond Florida’s endless summer, that is), and incredible range of cultures prove the East Coast is the coast with the most—and the only possible way to sample its infinite variety is behind the wheel. Here are nine of our favorite East Coast road trip itineraries, including where to stop, where to stay, and what to eat along your drive.

This gallery was originally published in August 2017. It has been updated with new information. All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Small but mighty: New Haven to Newport

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

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

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

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

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Tropical temptations: Miami to Key West

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

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

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

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

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Giving it 100: Vermont Route 100

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Florida beach bliss: Miami Beach to New Smyrna

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

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

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

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

Brooklyn goes bucolic: A trip up the Hudson Valley

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

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

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

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

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Mass magic: Salem to Provincetown

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

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

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

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

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Northern exposure: The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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elfreths alley in philadelphia pa with cobblestones in the center, one of the best east coast cities to visit in usa

13 Epic East Coast Cities for Weekend Getaways

With their long histories, excellent food, distinct cultures, and often whimsical (to put it nicely) layouts, the most beautiful East Coast cities easily rank among the best weekend getaway destinations in the USA!

From the beaches of Miami to the lighthouses of New England, there is no shortage of variety when looking for unique East Coast weekend getaways, and we adore them all.

While covering everywhere worth visiting on the US East Coast is a project for a lifetime (we’re constantly adding places to our wish list!), when it comes to cities on the East Coast to visit, there are some that consistently rank among the best.

For this guide, we’ve focused (with one exception), on East Coast cities with a population of over 100,000 people.

We love small American towns and beautiful beaches as much as the next road trippers, but we’ll save those for another post.

Planning an East Coast weekend getaway soon and looking for the perfect city break destination?

Here are the best East Coast USA cities to visit!

Table of Contents

New England Cities for Weekend Getaways

Mid-atlantic east coast cities to visit, southeast usa weekend getaway destinations.

Kate Storm in a black dress walking away from the camera along Jones Steet in Savannah GA, with several American flags hanging from homes on the right side of the photo

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As the largest city in New England and the birthplace of the American Revolution, Boston is undoubtedly one of the absolute best places to visit on the East Coast.

With its coastal location, gorgeous architecture, a dizzying array of distinct neighborhoods, and world-class museums (not to mention universities), you’ll never run out of incredible things to do in Boston .

We’ve been obsessed with Boston since we spent a summer living there, and will forever count it among our favorite East Coast weekend destinations.

During your trip, be sure to walk the Freedom Trail, relax at the Boston Public Garden and the Common, and enjoy the views from the water on a whale-watching cruise .

When it comes to neighborhoods, make sure to visit the picturesque North End, fashionable Back Bay, and grand Beacon Hill–three Boston neighborhoods you absolutely can’t miss.

Where to Stay in Boston

Found Hotel Boston Common: This boutique hotel in the Theatre District is perfect for exploring Boston. Rooms are bright and comfortable, and there is access to public transport a short walk from the hotel.
Revere Hotel Boston Common: Also in the Theatre District and close to Boston Common is this stylish hotel with a stunning rooftop terrace and bar, perfect for afternoon drinks. Rooms are spacious and have a coffee machine for those of you who need coffee the moment you wake up.

No, not Portland, Oregon –the lighthouse-and-lobster loving Portland, Maine!

Known for its charming Portland Head Light, its warehouse-district-turned-trendy-neighborhood of Old Port, and many, many breweries, Portland is an absolute blast to visit.

While you’re there, be sure to take a quick ferry over to nearby Peaks Island for a day, tour the beautiful Victoria Mansion, and enjoy (at least) one afternoon on a sailboat.

Of course, no trip to Portland is complete without snapping photos at the Portland Head Light, but Bug Light deserves a quick look, too!

Portland is also less than an hour by car from famous Kennebunkport–so if you want to mix a famous small town into this weekend getaway on the East Coast, you absolutely can.

Where to Stay in Portland

Portland Regency Hotel & Spa : This historic hotel offers a hot tub, steam room, full-service spa, and other luxurious amenities that will truly make your vacation to Portland one to remember!
Portland Harbor Hotel: Located on Portland Waterfront is this luxury and stylish hotel. With beautifully designed rooms and a great restaurant, you are also well located to explore more of Portland.

Portland Head Light on a sunny summer day with flowers in the foreground

New York City

How much of New York can you see on just a quick weekend trip?

Enough that you’ll want to come back immediately!

New York certainly can’t be “done” in a weekend–nor can it be done in a lifetime–but the great thing about New York City is that no matter who you are or what your interests are, you can find something to captivate you.

Whether you want to seek out the iconic sights of Midtown , find hidden gems in the outer boroughs, pay a visit to the Statue of Liberty, museum-hop your way through iconic attractions, or simply eat your way through the city, you’ll be able to find all you’re looking for (and more) in New York.

Empire State Building or Top of the Rock: view of Lower Manhattan from Empire State Building

For tourists hoping for the classic NYC experience like we were on our first few visits, a weekend in New York is certainly long enough to see many of the highlights that we’ve all seen over and over in movies and shows throughout our lives!

Central Park, Fifth Avenue, Grand Central, Times Square, the New York Public Library, a Broadway show or two, a visit to Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building , the Brooklyn Bridge–on a weekend, you can see all of that and more.

If you’re into museums, we also recommend hitting just 1-2 (no more–there’s too much else to do!) during your weekend in New York: the Met, MOMA, and the Natural History Museum are all great, classic choices.

Where to Stay in New York

The Plaza Hotel : For a memorable place to stay, this is one of the most classic and luxurious hotels in New York. It is located right by Central Park, the Rockefeller Center, and some of NYC’s most popular museums.
The Renwick: Offering stylish residential-style accommodation, this beautiful hotel is equipped with plenty of amenities and high-class comfort. It is also a short walk to the Empire State Building and Bryant Park for exploring.

kate storm standing at a magnifying glass on liberty island overlooking financial district manhattan

Philadelphia

Philadelphia has been one of the best East Coast cities to visit for centuries, and–like Boston–it features strong ties to the American Revolution.

This is where the Declaration of Independence and the Consitution were signed, touring Independence Hall and visiting the nearby Liberty Bell are among the best things to do in Philadelphia today as a result!

You can’t miss Philly’s food scene when visiting, either–from whoopie pies to Philly cheesesteaks, the city has a (literal) flavor all its own.

kate storm in elfreths alley philadelphia

We loved taking this fun food tour when visiting Philadelphia, and of course, eating our way through Reading Terminal Market.

Be sure to also make time to visit some of Philadelphia’s incredible museums during your visit, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Museum of the American Revolution (we loved this one), and touring the dark but fascinating Eastern State Penitentiary.

The Philadelphia Museum of Art is also home to another essential stop in this iconic East Coast City: the Rocky Steps (and if you’re willing to work up a sweat, definitely consider running up them yourself.

Where to Stay in Philadelphia

Morris House Hotel : Located right by Washington Square and a short walk from Independence Hall, Morris House Hotel is both a National Historic Landmark dating to the 18th century and a popular boutique hotel!
Home2Suites By Hilton : The Home2Suites concept of combining the appeal of a hotel and an Airbnb into one property was excellent (our spacious room had a kitchenette), and the customer service is great.

independence hall in philadelphia on a sunny day with red and pink flowers in the foreground. attractions in usa things to do

Washington DC

Our country’s capital city is not only the seat of our national government, but it’s also a fabulous place for a weekend trip on the East Coast!

Museum-goers will be delighted with the enormous array of impressive options to choose from in Washington DC.

Everything from the many Smithsonian Museums, to quirky options like the International Spy Museum, to meaningful stops like the US Holocaust Memorial Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture, is available.

sunset on the national mall in washington dc facing the washington monument, one of the best places to visit on the east coast america

There are far more than you can visit in a single weekend, and as a bonus, most DC museums are free to visit!

Those interested in US History and government will also have plenty to keep them busy along the National Mall, including iconic stops like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.

Touring the US Capitol is always an interesting experience, and if you plan ahead, you may even be able to tour the White House!

While Washington DC has plenty to offer year-round, there’s no doubt that visiting during cherry blossom season is an incredible (but crowded) experience.

Where to Stay in Washington DC

CitizenM Capitol : Another stunning example of CitizenM hotels is this location in Washington DC Capitol. Expect all the style and comfort these hotels are known for.
Riggs Washington DC : Located in the former home of Riggs National Bank this iconic building is now home to a classic and beautiful hotel. Rooms are huge and comfortable and offer views of Penn Quarter.

Washington Monument in Washington DC framed by cherry blossoms in the foreground. Washington DC is one of the best places to visit in the United States

Compared to some of the other destinations in this travel guide, Baltimore is definitely a bit under the radar as far as cities to visit on the East Coast go (unless you’re headed to a Ravens or an Orioles game, of course).

If you’re looking for a coastal American city with plenty of history, art, and food to offer, though, Baltimore has you covered!

The Baltimore Museum of Art, George Peabody Library, Walters Art Museum, American Visionary Museum, and more, will keep any museum-hopper happy.

bright red historic ship in inner harbor, one of the best things to do in baltimore this weekend

For American history buffs, Fort McHenry is a must, and for literary lovers, Edgar Allan Poe’s House is tiny but interesting.

When it comes to wandering, the neighborhoods of Inner Harbor, Harbor East, Fells Point, and Little Italy have plenty to explore.

And, of course, no weekend in Baltimore is complete without chowing down on crab cakes!

Where to Stay in Baltimore

The Inn at Henderson’s Wharf : Housed in a warehouse-turned-charming-hotel, you can find the popular Inn at Henderson’s Wharf at the end of a delightful cobblestone street in Fells Point.
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore : Housed in the former B&O Railroad Headquarters, walking into the opulent lobby of the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Baltimore feels like stepping back in time–and the rooms are incredibly comfortable, too

kate storm and jeremy storm posing with the colorful visit baltimore sign during a weekend getaway in baltimore md

Alexandria may be located just south of Washington DC, but it can definitely hold its own as a standalone weekend getaway on the East Coast!

Set along the Potomac River, Alexandria is stately and beautiful, with plenty of gorgeous architecture, great food, interesting history, and fun shopping to offer.

Don’t miss the iconic King Street Mile (and if you’re interested in some of the less savory historic stories, consider coming back at night for a ghost tour).

city hall in old town alexandria virginia, one of the best cities on the east coast weekend getaways

The George Washington Masonic National Memorial is a must-see, and you can climb to the top for an excellent view of the city.

As far as museums go, the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum is a fun stop!

Gadsby’s Tavern –part fine dining restaurant, and part museum–gives modern visitors the chance to dine in the same space where many of the Founding Fathers once plotted against British rule.

Alexandria’s most popular attraction, though, lies just 15 minutes south and technically outside of town: Mount Vernon, the former plantation of George Washington.

Where to Stay in Alexandria, Virginia

Hilton Alexandria Old Town is a really fantastic option, rooms are huge and really fresh and bright. The onsite restaurant is really great if you don’t want to venture out early for breakfast. It is also right next to the Amtrak and Metro station, perfect for easy access to explore!
StayAPT Suites Fort Belvoir , while a little further off the main spots it is still close enough to access. These are a great budget friendly option if you also prefer self-catering with hotel facilities.

brick row houses in old town alexandria virginia shaded by trees

Without a doubt, the small but stunning city of Savannah, Georgia is one of the absolute best East Coast cities for a USA weekend getaway.

It also happens to be one of our favorite cities in the world, and we’ll never stop revisiting it!

Featuring absolutely stunning architecture, 22 of its original 24 town squares, endless oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, and some of the best food in the country, exploring the best things to do in Savannah is always a blast.

While you’re there, be sure to meander down beautiful Jones Street, check out Forsyth Park, hear some of the city’s most enduring legends on a ghost tour , enjoy views from River Street, and take in some of Savannah’s complex history at its various house museums and houses of worship.

Kate Storm in a black dress in front of a brick home on Jones Street during a long weekend in Savannah GA

Don’t forget to set aside plenty of time to eat!

While there are dozens of incredible restaurants in Savannah , favorites include The Olde Pink House and The Grey for special occasions, The Collins Quarter for their legendary lavender mocha latte, and Leopold’s Ice Cream for a scoop of their famous Tutti Frutti ice cream.

Have enough time for a quick day trip ?

Tybee Island –also known as “Savannah’s Beach”–is less than a 30-minute drive away, allowing you to easily combine a beach trip and city break!

Where to Stay in Savannah

The Marshall House : Featuring a popular included breakfast, a fantastic location in the heart of Savannah’s historic district, and phenomenal reviews, you can’t go wrong with a stay at The Marshall House!
Foley House Inn : Easily my favorite hotel that I’ve stayed in while in Savannah, the Foley House Inn is absolutely beautiful inside and out, and has a perfect location right on Chippewa Square.

forsyth park fountain framed by oak trees in savannah, one of the best east coast usa cities to visit

Beautiful beaches, a unique culture that’s all its own, fabulous architecture, and–of course–plenty of sunshine: you’ll find all of this and far more by heading all the way south to Miami for your East Coast weekend getaway!

When it comes to beaches, South Beach is often considered one of the best urban beaches on the planet, and we’d have to agree.

Don’t limit yourself just to the beach, though!

Kate in a pink dress next to a blue Vespa on Ocean Avenue.

Be sure to explore Miami Beach’s impressive Art Deco architecture, eat your way through Little Havana, admire street art in Wynwood, and check out the views from Biscayne Bay.

For a unique perspective on the city, consider taking a boat cruise –we were very impressed with how much we enjoyed ours!

For those who want to experience some unique nature in south Florida during their trip, consider also planning on a day trip to nearby Everglades National Park.

Or, if you have a few more days (say, an extra long weekend trip), you can road trip all the way to Key West, the southernmost point of the USA!

Where to Stay in Miami

Hotel Impala : We love staying here! The room was clean, the shower divine, the customer service lovely, and–most importantly–the location on Collins Ave. was absolutely perfect. Located in the heart of the Art Deco district and a five-minute walk from South Beach while still offering a quiet place to sleep at night, Hotel Impala had a location you just can’t beat in Miami Beach.
The Marlin Hotel : This hotel offers the chance to stay in one of Miami Beach’s historic art deco buildings! Boasting a fantastic location on Collins Avenue, impeccable customer service, incredible reviews, and spacious suites, the Marlin Hotel is the perfect hotel for those looking for a luxury experience while also seeing a side of Miami Beach’s Art Deco history that not every visitor to the city gets to.

South Pointe Pier in Miami Beach, with view of downtown on the far left and South Beach on the right--definitely visit during your 3 days in Miami!

Colorful, coastal, and downright charming, Charleston makes an absolutely delightful East Coast weekend getaway.

Don’t mistake Charleston for all glamour, though: the city has a national reputation for its incredible food scene, played an important role in two of the USA’s most important wars, and is home to an enormous amount of often heavy history.

While you’re there, be sure to snap photos at beautiful Rainbow Row and The Battery, check out City Market, enjoy Waterfront Park, and tour the Olde Exchange and Dungeon (which is one of the places where the US Constitution was ratified).

The Old Slave Mart Museum is home to heartbreaking history and is an essential stop when working to understand the history of Charleston.

Those interested in US military history will no doubt want to visit Patriots Point to tour the former US naval ships docked there, and pay a visit to Fort Sumter to learn about its history (and enjoy the views).

Beach lovers, don’t miss the chance to check out nearby Folly Beach!

Where to Stay in Charleston

The Jasmine House : This stunning boutique inn is housed in a Greek Revivalist home dating to 1843, and decorated to the nines! This is exactly the kind of property visitors dream about planning a trip to The Holy City, and the impeccable reviews and fantastic location make The Jasmine House the perfect place to stay when in Charleston.
Harbourview Inn : For charming luxury in the heart of historic Charleston, check into the gorgeous Harbourview Inn, located just steps away from Rainbow Row and Waterfront Park. The inn features excellent views from its rooftop, a phenomenal included breakfast, and excellent reviews.

kate storm in a floral dress at rainbow row in charleston sc

Of all of the weekend getaways on the East Coast covered here, Asheville is one of the best options for a group divided on whether to visit a city or the great outdoors.

Home to an epic craft beer scene, the incredible Biltmore Estate , plenty of street art, and delicious food options, there’s no doubt that Asheville appeals to the city lovers among us.

Its location right next door to the Pisgah National Forest and Great Smoky Mountain National Park, however, make it a fabulous US weekend destination for outdoor enthusiasts, as well.

kate storm and ranger storm at looking glass falls, one of the best stops on a 3 days in asheville itinerary

There are plenty of easy hikes near Asheville (many of them featuring waterfalls) that allow travelers of all skill levels to enjoy the beautiful mountain setting!

No matter what your interests are, try to make time during your trip to Asheville to drive a small piece of the Blue Ridge Parkway–especially if you’re visiting in the fall and can enjoy the changing colors.

Often considered one of the most beautiful road trips in the United States , Blue Ridge Parkway is a drive not to be missed.

Where to Stay in Asheville

Cedar Crest Inn: This pink 1891 mansion house is a perfect place to base yourself in Asheville. Packed with historical details and stunning architecture you can imagine it as a mini Biltmore.
The Applewood Manor : Located within walking distance of downtown via a greenbelt trail, The Applewood Manor feels like it’s in a peaceful, quiet location–but it’s still in a perfect location to make the most of Asheville.

kate storm in a blue dress in front of the biltmore house asheville north carolina

Sprawling, historic, interesting, and full of delicious southern food, Atlanta makes a fantastic weekend getaway on the East Coast USA.

The city’s museums are worthy of a large swath of your time, with many of them centered around Centennial Olympic Park (where the 1996 Olympics were held).

In the immediate area, you can find the National Center for Civil and Human Rights (an absolute must-see when visiting Atlanta), the Georgia Aquarium, and the famous World of Coca-Cola.

atlanta georgia skyline with winding roads in the foreground

Of course, no visit to Atlanta would be complete without time spent at the Martin Luther King Historical Park, which is home to several sites important to the life of Dr. King and the Civil Rights movement overall.

Other interesting places to visit during a weekend in Atlanta include the BeltLine, Ponce City Market (for excellent food), and the Atlanta History Center.

Curious about filming locations?

Atlanta–and Georgia overall–are hotspots for filming movies and TV shows ranging from The Walking Dead to Stranger Things.

There are plenty of filming location tours available that are ready to help you find both iconic and hidden locations!

Where to Stay in Atlanta

Hotel Indigo – This small chain is perfect for those on a mid-range budget. The location is unmatched and they’re even pet-friendly!
Epicurean Atlanta, Autograph Collection : Luxury travelers consider staying at the Epicurean Atlanta, Autograph Collection, which is such a beautiful, unique property that it’s worth it to see the terrace.

fall foliage in piedmont park with atlanta skyline, a fun stop during a long 3 day weekend in atlanta itinerary

Without a doubt, Orlando is not only one of the most popular East Coast cities to visit but one of the most popular weekend getaways in the entire USA, and that’s for one important reason: theme parks!

From Walt Disney World to Universal, Orlando’s world-class theme parks are an enormous draw for kids and adults alike, and they alone are a reason to visit Central Florida!

Whether you want to ride the classic Disney rides at Magic Kingdom, step into Hogwarts in Harry Potter World, or ride soaring roller coasters, you’ll have a blast.

Away from its iconic theme parks, though, there is still plenty to do in Central Florida!

aerial view of wekiwa springs in apopka florida

Canoeing at Wekiwa Springs was a favorite activity of mine as a kid and is a great way to experience a beautiful Florida spring without going far.

The Kennedy Space Center is about an hour away from downtown Orlando, and an incredible experience.

Looking for something closer to town?

Check out the Orlando Museum of Art or the Morse Museum of American Art during your East Coast city break!

Where to Stay in Orlando, Florida

The Delaney Hotel : For a stay in Downtown Orlando this is the best pick for your hotel. Rooms are clean and classic and the hotel is a short walk to Church Street Station.
Caribe Royale : If you are looking for a resort close to Disney, this is the one. There is a fabulous pool and poolside bar, and a shuttle service to the Disney ticket office.

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2 photos of usa east coast weekend getaways, nyc and boston. black and red text reads "13 epic east coast cities to visit"

About Kate Storm

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

10 Best East Coast Road Trips for History, Beaches, and Seafood

Whether you're a foodie or history buff, prefer hiking or relaxing on the beach, these East Coast road trips will truly deliver.

30 best places to visit on the east coast

Unlike the West Coast, where only three states border the Pacific, a total of 14 states lie along the Atlantic shores. Road trips on the East Coast offer plenty of variety, taking in mountains, beaches, rugged seashores, large cities, small towns, and Intracoastal waterways. To top it off, seafood — from Maine's lobsters and Maryland's oysters to Florida's stone crabs — is abundant. Nearly every East Coast state has a culinary specialty as well, making food a memorable part of any East Coast road trip.

We've put together 10 of the best East Coast road trips, and while these have been broken up into easy weekend itineraries you can do from major cities, you could certainly tweak them, connect the dots, and build the ultimate multiday road trip all the way from Maine to Florida. Whatever you decide, there's plenty of adventure and lots of beautiful sights to see, from the incomparable colors of Vermont in the fall to the wild horses on the beaches of Virginia and, of course, grand cities like Boston, New York, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., and Miami.

Boston, Massachusetts to Burlington, Vermont

If you're on the East Coast when the trees begin to change color, a road trip through Vermont and New Hampshire will deliver some of the greatest autumn backdrops you could imagine. Starting in Boston, head north to Lake Winnipesaukee, where you'll find one of the country's best lake towns . Dubbed "America's oldest summer resort town," Wolfeboro is a place worth spending a night to soak up the Americana aesthetic in this town that many have called "Rockwellesque."

From the lake, drive an hour north on NH-16 to get to North Conway where you can get on the Kancamagus Highway, a top-tier National Scenic Byway for fall foliage lovers that offers scenic stopping points like waterfalls and gorges. The highway travels for 34.5 miles through the White Mountain National Forest . Once you've come out the other side in Lincoln, New Hampshire, you can continue on your way west and cross over into Vermont.

Set your sights next on Stowe, Vermont's most picturesque ski resort town , and the location of the Trapp Family Lodge , the historic home of the real von Trapp family that inspired Rodgers and Hammerstein to write "The Sound of Music." If there's no snow on the ground, the area offers plenty of trails for biking and hiking, or you can enjoy a scenic gondola ride and the charming downtown area. You'll finish the trip when you arrive in the state capital of Burlington, a small city with a youthful personality as the home of the University of Vermont. You can stock up on farm-fresh groceries at the celebrated Saturday farmers market and go barhopping among the city's many craft breweries.

Boston, Massachusetts to Acadia National Park, Maine

There's no shortage of ways to explore Boston — self-guided walking tours, museum visits, and strolls through Little Italy (in the North End) and historic spots like Faneuil Hall and Boston Common are all great options for soaking in the city. Visitors can also take a harbor cruise or ride a seasonal Swan Boat in the Public Garden lagoon. Don't leave town without sampling the city's famous clam chowder and Boston cream pie.

The fastest route on this 285-mile trip takes nearly five hours and passes through Salem, Massachusetts ; Portsmouth, New Hampshire; Portland, Maine; and Augusta, Maine's capital, before reaching Bar Harbor. You'll experience New England's scenery and history if you take U.S. Route 1 with a few detours along the way.

Traveling north on U.S. Route 1 from Boston, you'll pass over the Mystic River. If time allows, watch for the Yankee Division Highway heading east toward Gloucester — a worthwhile detour if you're interested in seeing lighthouses, fishermen's memorial statues, and historic buildings. Back on the highway, you'll drive north, just a mile or so from the sea most of the time, briefly passing through New Hampshire until you reach Portsmouth and enter Maine. Continue through beach towns and the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge , and take State Route 9 for a detour to Kennebunkport. Spend the night, dine on Maine lobster, and check out the stunning mansions in this nearly 400-year-old town.

Take Route 9 around the shore, then head back to U.S. Route 1 on Route 208. Continue on U.S. Route 1 to Portland, another great option for an overnight stay. From Portland, three hours on the shore-hugging scenic route will get you to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park .

New York, New York to Newport, Rhode Island

Spending a few days in Manhattan is the ideal lead-in to a relaxing road trip to a quieter town like Newport. After noshing on bagels or pizza, shopping, visiting museums, and strolling through Central Park, it could be time for a change. Don't leave without walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, meandering along The High Line , and experiencing The National September 11 Memorial Museum .

When it's time to leave, head north on Franklin D. Roosevelt East River Drive (FDR Drive) along the East River to the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, which spans the Harlem River. Interstate 278 then takes you through the Bronx and onto Interstate 95 through Westchester County. The highway runs northeast, close to the shore of the Long Island Sound into Connecticut. You'll pass through New Haven, home of Yale University, and have an opportunity to explore the campus.

Shortly after the town of Guilford, exit onto State Route 1, which will take you closer to the sea and add about 30 minutes to the four-hour, 185-mile trip — but it's well worth it for the views and beach access. You'll join Interstate 95 again to get back on your way to Newport, eventually exiting onto State Route 102 and then Route 138.

In Newport, park your vehicle and spend a few car-free days along the shore, strolling the three-and-a-half-mile Cliff Walk , exploring vintage mansions, and enjoying fresh seafood. Take a bike ride along one of many trails or relax on a sunset cruise.

New York, New York to Washington, D.C.

Greg Pease / Getty Images

This 226-mile trip takes approximately four hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. From lower Manhattan, take the Holland Tunnel that passes under the Hudson River to New Jersey. You'll be on Interstate 78 in Jersey City, with views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty . The interstate highway crosses Newark Bay on the Vincent R. Casciano Memorial Bridge, then meets Interstate 95 heading south.

Driving south on Interstate 95 (New Jersey Turnpike), Staten Island, one of New York City's boroughs, will be on your left across a narrow body of water called Arthur Kill — the word "kill" is derived from the Dutch, influential in settling this part of the northeast. Continue south on Interstate 95 through New Jersey — maybe taking a detour to the beaches of the Jersey Shore — until you cross the Delaware River into the state of Delaware. You'll soon enter Maryland, where Interstate 95 is named John F. Kennedy Memorial Highway, cross the Susquehanna River, and go on to Baltimore.

Continue south on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway (295) into Washington, D.C., where there's plenty to see and do, from museums, memorials, and monuments to outdoor activities on the waterfront. The Smithsonian museums alone could fill several days, plus there's hiking, biking, and boating for those who want to spend some time outdoors.

Baltimore, Maryland to Virginia Beach, Virginia

Starting in Baltimore, this East Coast road trip will take you on a long detour from I-95 that passes through a rare coastal landscape populated by wild horses. From Baltimore, it's a 118-mile drive across the Chesapeake Bay to Delaware's Bethany Beach, a lovely first beach to set the tone for this coastal adventure. From here, travel south along the water until you reach Ocean City, Maryland, a classic American beach town to base your adventures in Assateague State Park. Open to beach campers, this 48,000-acre stretch of grass and sand is considered one of the country's most scenic camping destinations.

You'll find wild horses roaming the landscape on Assateague and further south on Virginia's Chincoteague Island, which is your next stop. There's no main road connecting the two islands (although there are many back-country campsites) so you will have to briefly go back inland to get to Chincoteague, where you'll find even more beautiful scenery, horses, and the famous Pony Swim , which takes place every summer. During the event, spectators can watch as the horses are herded across the bay by the "Saltwater Cowboys" in an impressive display of the animals' swimming chops.

From Chincoteague Island, it's a beautiful 105-mile drive with the Atlantic on one side and the Chesapeake Bay on the other. Make sure to stop for lunch in one of the small towns along the way for fresh seafood. When you reach the end of the island, you'll travel across the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel and arrive at your final destination in Virginia Beach, another classic American beach town, where you'll have your pick of chic hotels and a large boardwalk with plenty of restaurants and attractions for all ages.

Washington, D.C. to Nags Head, North Carolina

After taking in the sights, restaurants, and history of our nation's capital, you may be ready to head to the beach — this trip takes you about 280 miles south to the Outer Banks of North Carolina . As with most of these road trips, there's the faster way and the more scenic route. In this case, the scenic drive adds nearly an hour to the approximately five-and-a-half-hour trip, but if you're on vacation, it's worth the additional time.

Head south out of Washington, D.C. on Interstate 395 (which turns to Interstate 95). You'll pass the Thomas Jefferson Memorial , then cross the Potomac River into Virginia. Continue south until you reach State Route 3 around Fredericksburg — head east on Route 3, then south on Route 17. Called Tidewater Trail, Route 17 meanders along next to the Rappahannock River, a spot known for outdoor fun and delicious oysters.

You'll cross the York River and the James River, which empty into the Chesapeake Bay. In the city of Newport News, take Interstate 64 southeast, and in Chesapeake, take Route 168 into North Carolina. The highway meets up with Route 158, takes you along a narrow peninsula to the Wright Memorial Bridge, and south to the Outer Banks town of Nags Head. Relax on the beach, climb to the top of the still-active Bodie Island Lighthouse , or watch the hang gliders at Jockey's Ridge State Park among massive sand dunes.

Charlotte, North Carolina to Gatlinburg, Tennessee

For this scenic East Coast road trip, you'll travel to the heart of Appalachia, starting in Charlotte, North Carolina where you can pay a visit to the NASCAR Hall of Fame . From here, you'll head west to Asheville, another city with a lot of character and a unique history. Consider this your gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park . While in town, you should stop by The Biltmore Estate, the impressive mansion of the famously rich Vanderbilt family, and plan to spend sunset at the Omni Grove Park Inn , a historic hotel that once hosted American authors like F. Scott Fitzgerald and also has the best sunset views in town.

From Asheville, get yourself to the Blue Ridge Parkway, a road that provides 469 miles to explore the poetic Appalachian Mountain landscape from the comfort of your car — with plenty of stopping points to enjoy a cozy cabin lodge or gentle hike. The road goes northwest through Virginia, but we recommend traveling southwest to finish in the Smoky Mountains and then crossing the national park until you reach Gatlinburg. For a trip this grand, why not plan a big finale and book a night in one of the region's luxury tree houses? The Sanctuary Tree House Resort in nearby Pigeon Forge is home to beautiful feats of architecture with real tree houses boasting trip-making amenities like outdoor hot tubs and swinging day beds.

Wilmington, North Carolina to Savannah, Georgia

Daniela Duncan / Getty Images

Start or end this road trip by spending a few days in the riverfront city of Wilmington, strolling Cape Fear's 1.75-mile Riverwalk , browsing the shops, or dining at one of the waterfront cafes or restaurants. Tour the Battleship North Carolina , just across the river from downtown, to catch a glimpse of its role in World War II's Pacific Theater. Spend a day at the beach or ride in a horse-drawn carriage among Wilmington's historic mansions.

When it's time to begin your drive south to Savannah, you have a few options. The fastest route is inland on Interstate 95, a little less than five hours for 300 miles. But take your time and drive near the coast on U.S. Route 17. While this will add around an hour, you'll pass through small towns and be able to stop for lunch on a nearby beach. If time allows, you could happily take three days or more to enjoy this scenic and historic section of the coast.

Head west across the Cape Fear River, then U.S. Route 17 takes you inland for a few miles south before you get close to the Atlantic shore for most of the drive. You'll pass Shallotte, its river of the same name, and the Brunswick Islands , five barrier islands with beaches, seafood, and a historic atmosphere. North Carolina's Outer Banks region, which comprises 100 miles of shoreline, is a popular summer destination, and you might decide to spend some time (or even a night) in one of the beachside towns.

Myrtle Beach in South Carolina might be your next stop, or you can continue your scenic drive along the shore and spend the night in Charleston. Continue on U.S. Route 17, driving near the Sea Islands — hundreds of barrier islands along the shores of South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida — for about two hours, before arriving in Savannah.

Savannah, Georgia to Orlando, Florida

It may not be easy to leave Savannah's squares, parks, riverfront, and restaurants, but if you're planning a visit to Orlando's theme parks and many attractions, it's time to get on the road. Most of the 300-mile trip will be on Interstate 95, which runs fairly close to the coast, but there's a short detour that takes you to Sea Island , Little St. Simons Island , and Jekyll Island that's well worth an extra hour or more.

Take Interstate 16 West out of Savannah to meet up with Interstate 95 South — you'll drive mostly inland, but pass over creeks and streams along the way. Shortly after the Altamaha River, watch for a turnoff onto State Route 99, then take Route 17 south. Take a road to whichever island you want to visit. Then, continue on Route 17, which meets up with Interstate 95 again. Continue south, passing Amelia Island, and on toward Jacksonville, where you'll cross the St. Johns River.

You'll drive near the coast as you pass St. Augustine, the nation's oldest city, and a variety of beach towns. At Daytona Beach, home of the Daytona International Speedway , head southwest on Interstate 4, passing Lake Monroe and on to Orlando, where hotels, Disney World, Epcot, Universal Studios, and entertainment of all kinds await. Explore the natural surroundings at Shingle Creek Regional Park , where you can paddle a canoe or kayak, or enjoy a quiet picnic.

Miami, Florida to Key West, Florida

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This classic road trip takes you to the furthest reaches of Highway 1 and the southernmost point of the continental U.S. From Miami, it's a 164-mile drive to Key West, but it's a trip that should be broken up along the way to enjoy the diversity of the many islands that make up the Florida Keys — and maybe even a detour to Everglades National Park if you've always wanted to see gators in person. Before you set out, make sure you take the proper time to enjoy the scene of South Beach, have a cafecito on Calle Ocho in Little Havana, and take a few shots for the 'gram at Wynwood Walls .

From Miami, embrace the laid-back style of the Keys by traveling slowly, first stopping at Key Largo for a slice of Key Lime Pie at Mrs. Mac's Kitchen . As you roll down Highway 1 past Islamorada and Marathon, you'll see fabulous resorts and cozy bed-and-breakfasts but for an experience that's a little different, park the car and hop on a boat to the celebrated Little Palm Island , a private island resort where you can have your own luxury bungalow. You can spend the entire trip exploring the many wildlife-rich snorkeling and diving spots, especially if you take an excursion to Dry Tortugas National Park , a protected marine reserve.

For literature fans and animal lovers, a visit to the Hemingway Home and Museum is a must, where you can meet the unique six-toed cats descended from the great American author's precious pet Snowball who lived there with him in the 1930s. Of course, with only one way to go from Key West, the drive back is just as scenic as the drive there, so keep track of your favorite spots and make sure you never miss the sunset, which is magnificent from just about every angle.

The Travel Women

25 bucket list places to see on the east coast of the usa.

The USA is packed with bucket list cities, parks and attractions but if you’re looking for the best of the west coast we have 25 favorite spots or the best of the east coast, keep reading!

1. Dry Tortugas National Park, Flordia: This national park off the coast of Florida is comprised of islands and features an abundance of marine and bird life!

2. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts : This little gem of an island is in the south of Massachusetts and has the cutest colonial style.

3. Baltimore, Maryland : This city is quirky, it’s adorable, it’s charming – that’s why they call it Charm City – and it’s well worth the stop.

4. Atlantic City, New Jersey : Known as the Las Vegas of the east, Atlantic City offers casinos, wide beaches, and boardwalks.

5. Savannah Historic District, Georgia: Spanish moss trees adorn this district and make it appear otherworldly. (pictured below)

6. Watkins Glen State Park, New York : With gorgeous gorges and waterfalls, Watkins Glen State Park is quite the adventure.

7. Smoky Mountains, North Carolina/Tennessee : This beautiful mountain range is often blanketed with fog, hence the name.

8. Walt Disney’s World, Florida : This is a classic vacation spot that you just can’t miss! Release your inner child at Disney World.

9. Shenandoah Caverns, Virginia : Haunting structures made by stalagmites and stalactites are on display at these cool caves!

10. White Mountains, New Hampshire : An absolutely breathtaking mountain range, the White Mountains have many hiking spots and photo ops! (below)

11. South Beach, Miami, Florida : If you’re ever in need of a beach day, South Beach is the place to go. It’s warm and beautiful all year round!

12. Acadia National Park, Maine : As the only national park in New England, Acadia National Park boasts beautiful scenery and a lovely getaway in Bar Harbor.

13. French Quarter, New Orleans, Louisiana : The french quarter is the oldest part of New Orleans, and as you can probably tell, has much french influence.

14. Lincoln Memorial, DC : What better way to celebrate the man who freed the slaves than by visiting his gorgeous memorial! (below)

15. Niagara Falls, New York : Possibly the most famous waterfall in America, you can’t miss a trip to Niagara!

16. Everglades National Park, Florida : Half land and half water, the Everglades are beautiful and support an ecosystem unique to the country.

17. Times Square, New York : It’s full of tourists all year round but you cannot miss a trip to the iconic Times Square.

18. Stowe, Vermont : This little town functions as a fabulous ski resort in the winter and offers gorgeous landscapes in the summer! (below)

19. Charleston, South Carolina : Known for its elegant old-fashioned aesthetics, this city is worth the visit for the picture alone.

20. Newport, Rhode Island : Newport is a quaint beach town in New England and known for its mansions from the gilded age.

21. Nashville, Tennessee : Known as the country music capital of the world, Nashville is a must visit for all those who enjoy country music.

22. Lake Placid, New York : Lake Placid became famous for hosting the winter Olympics twice, but now is just a serene and gorgeous vacation spot. (below)

23. Portland, Maine : This coastal city is known for its mix of quintessential New England quaintness and large city life!

24. Montauk, New York : A vacation spot for those living in New York City, Montauk is the perfect escape from the city with quiet beaches and chill vibes.

25. Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens, Pennsylvania : One man’s trash is another man’s treasure as the saying goes… well Philly’s Magic Gardens is an art exhibit made entirely out of trash into mosaics.

What are your favorite places on the east coast? Leave your thoughts in the comments below!

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36 thoughts on “25 Bucket List Places to See on the East Coast of the USA”

I grew up in New Jersey, went to school in Providence, RI and then lived in Southern Florida. Some of my greatest childhood vacations were in Martha’s Vineyard! This list is great!

I have a good experience of Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens because I have been there many of the times in my whole life to explore the beauty of this alluring garden and always spent lovely time there. It is a really good place for fun and tourists can enjoy the hiking and many other most exciting activities.

Yes it is one of my absolute favorite places, so gorgeous! 🙂

I’ve been to five of these spots. I guess I still have lots to explore on the East Coast. Thanks for the inspiration. Annette Duvdevani

Happy to share, there are so many great places on the East Coast, thank you!

In my point of view your shared all these places are the best to have great fun in USA. I also explored both of these places like Miami and Niagara Falls but I really like to all of them. I hope your shared information would be useful for all kind of visitors.

Oh so glad thank you for reading and hope you enjoy exploring more places on this list soon!

Oh.my.word. That spanish moss picture!!! I want a house with trees like this!

Oh yes, same! Love this style so much!

Cherry Springs Park in PA! The darkest night sky on the east coast for stargazing and great views of the milky way!

Oh thank you for sharing sounds lovely!

you said the best time to visit East coast the USA is November to February. I’m planning my trip in mid October. What will you recommend this? Also, tell me how many days will be enough in the US if I just want to explore the Cali and Michigan

Yes, mid October is a great time to visit the East Coast! October/November you might see some leaves changing colors for fall, which is very hard to time right. The US is huge so you would need to save time by flying between California and Michigan. It depends, you can see maybe some of one area of Michigan like Ann Arbor in a weekend, but California is huge and each major city might ideally require at least 3 to 4 days to fully enjoy from: (in order of my favorites): San Diego to San Francisco to LA.

Absolutely October is a great time to visit the East Coast, you might even be lucky to see the fall foliage leaves changing colors! California and Michigan are far apart so it depends on how much you want to see but if you have a limited amount of time at least 3-5 days each per city. Keep in mind California’s many destinations like San Francisco or LA or San Diego can also be far apart too and you need at least 3-5 days for each city in California! Hope that helps! 🙂

What an amazing guide! Can’t wait to use this when I travel to Amsterdam. This was very informative.

So happy you enjoyed it! Happy travels!

That was an interesting list of places to visit and all of them are really beautiful. The images that you have shared are amazing too. US is such a beautiful place and should be on every travelers bucket list.

I completely agree and am currently planning another US East Coast road trip with more about some of these places very soon! Thank you!

This is such a detailed and informative blog. This will help me immensely.

So glad, thank you so much for reading and commenting! 🙂

Wow amazing places in the USA the pictures are gorgeous such a peaceful places to explore.

Yes so many wonderful places to explore, thank you so much!

Very great article that is.

Thanks so much!

I am planning a month-long backpacking trip around Europe. It’s good to know that changing your currency is not recommend at the airport. I wouldn’t have known that, so thanks for the heads up.

Happy to help! Definitely avoid it at the airport as it can be marked up substantially!

Hey, after completing the entire article, I just loved the way the writer did justice to all the topics or points that had to be covered in this post. These days I come across too many posts where there is no link between the headline and the body of the content. But in your post, I loved the way you connected each topic with the other. I am Tweeting this post as I simply find it useful and shareworthy!

After looking into a few of the blog articles on your web site, I honestly appreciate your technique of blogging.

Thank you, appreciate it!

I was looking for this information relating to 25 bucket list places to see on the east coast of the usa. You have really eased my work, loved your writing skill as well. Please keep sharing more!

Thank you so much for your wonderful comment, appreciate it!

What a fabulous article on places. Short and precise. I especially loved the insider tips! Very helpful.

So happy you enjoyed, thank you so much for your comment!

Hey! Quick question that’s completely off topic. Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly? My site looks weird when browsing from my iphone. I’m trying to find a theme or plugin that might be able to correct this problem. If you have any suggestions, please share. With thanks!

I am so sorry to hear that, can you let me know what phone you are using (android vs iPhone) and if you have the latest operating system and what browser like Chrome or Safari? Will look into this thank you!

Stowe, Vermont is really beautiful because we have been there before and really we found beautiful flowers. And even glad to see that other people also liked this place. Thanks for sharing

13 Best Hidden Gem Vacation Spots on the East Coast

September 9, 2023
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If you’re looking for some cool hidden gem vacation spots along the East Coast, you’re in the right place! There are countless underrated and unique places on the east coast, and in this guide, guest blogger Polly Clover is going to take you off the beaten path to the very best of them.

Off-the-beaten-path locations along the East Coast make for an unforgettable vacation. It’s an opportunity to escape the crowds of popular tourist destinations like New York and Charleston and enjoy a truly local experience.

Having lived in 4 States along the eastern coast of the US and done my fair share of road trips up and down the east coast , I’ve found some pretty incredible lesser-known destinations.

From quaint, quiet towns in Maine and mountains in Vermont to a magical island off of Rhode Island’s mainland and a Bavarian-style city in Georgia, there are many undiscovered locations to suit every kind of traveller.

One of my top missions when I travel is to find the places we don’t often read about or see on Instagram.

It’s in these places that you find the true joys of exploring new places – connecting with unique people, exploring barely-touched nature, and taking time to escape the hustle and bustle.

In this guide, you’ll find secret beaches, enchanting mountain towns, unique places to stay, and insider tips to the best East Coast hidden gems.

So let’s get to it. Get ready for an adventure to some of the coolest places to visit along the East Coast.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase a product through these links, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. And we can continue bringing you free tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates – you are awesome, and we thank you!

From one of my favourite cities in Maine all the way down to a secret Florida island, the United States’ eastern coast is home to some of the nation’s most magical destinations. Let’s get off the beaten path and check them out!

1. Biddeford, Maine

After years of dreaming about visiting Maine, I finally did it. And already I can’t wait to go back.

Filled to the brim with secret beaches and charming towns, Maine will always leave you wanting more.

Of course, the ever-popular town of Portland is amazing; however, just below it is one of the best hidden gems on the East Coast: Biddeford.

Biddeford might be Maine’s youngest city. But it’s bursting with exciting things to see and do. Here are some top recommendations:

Fortune’s Rock Beach: a secret 2-mile sandy beach that’s beautiful, quiet, and pet-friendly.
Clifford Park: a community park with trails, wildlife, and waterways.
Ferry Beach State Park: a peaceful park with trails and beach access.
Elements Books Coffee Beer: eclectic bookshop with coffee, beer, and walls lined with new and used books.

Where to Stay in Biddeford

When I visited Maine, I was travelling in my camper van. It’s perfect for this way of travel as there are many established campgrounds around the area.

Sun Outdoors is a resort-style campground close to the beach that’s got it all. For a more laid-back camping experience, check out Homestead by the River .

If you prefer vacation rentals or hotel stays, there are tons. Mermaid House is a cool vacation home perfect for a family (or two) or a group of friends.

You can also check out many other accommodation options in Maine here .

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2. Stowe, Vermont

When we think of Vermont, we think of cold and snowy weather. Naturally, this makes for excellent skiing vacations if that’s your thing.

However, if you’re like me and winter activities really aren’t your thing, Stowe is the perfect summer destination to check out.

Located in the mountains in northern Vermont, Stowe boasts beautiful nature trails, mountain scenery, and cosy villages. These are some of the best things to see and do:

Stowe Cider: quirky taproom with games and delicious ciders.
Sunset Rock: easy, fun hike through the woods that ends at an overlook of Stowe downtown and surrounding mountains.
Gold Brook Covered Bridge: a charming wooden bridge connected to local folklores; offers a great photo op.

Where to Stay in Stowe

From cosy inns to mountain resorts, Stowe offers some of the most unique places to stay on the East Coast.

The historic Hob Knob Inn is nestled in the forest, while Goldilocks Cabin is just a few minutes from Stowe’s historic village.

You can also check out many other accommodation options in Vermont here .

3. Oaks Bluff, Massachusetts

Suppose you’ve dreamed of visiting the iconic Martha’s Vineyard but also want to explore hidden gem vacation spots on the East Coast, then Oaks Bluff is the ideal spot.

Oaks Bluff is a historical town on the water offering a perfect getaway for both fun and relaxation. It’s home to incredible beaches and iconic gingerbread house cottages.

So, what else is worth checking out in Oaks Bluff?

Ocean Park: waterfront views, grassy areas, and gorgeous homes.
Waban Park: an event space by the beach that often hosts music, food, and arts festivals.
Eastville Point Beach: stunning blue waters and unmatched sunset views.

Where to Stay in Oaks Bluff

While Oaks Bluff is small, there’s no shortage of accommodations. Whether you’re interested in camping, lowkey hotels, or fancy inns, there’s something for every kind of traveller.

One of the most unique places to stay on the East Coast is actually right here in Oaks Bluff – Narragansett House . This bed & breakfast features bright, charming guest rooms with unique decor.

You can also check out many other accommodation options in Massachusetts here .

4. Block Island, Rhode Island

If a serene beach getaway like those you see in the movies is what you’re looking for, Block Island is that place!

You can travel to this small island by plane or a short ferry ride from the mainland. Once you arrive, you can head to any spot by the ocean for endless miles of free, public beachfront and many secluded areas.

While relaxing on the seafront is on everyone’s to-do list in Block Island, there are other activities well-worth checking out, too.

Rodman’s Island: a large nature reserve with local wildlife, a hiking area, and beach access.
Mohegan Bluffs: 100+ steps that lead to the top of 200-foot cliffs surrounding a magical secluded beach.
Southeast Lighthouse: a stunning 1800s lighthouse on top of a cliff.

Tip – I recommend renting a bicycle and wandering around the Island, where you can find many streets lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites.

Where to Stay on Block Island

Like many Northeast destinations, Block Island is dotted with inns and hotels. The Sullivan House sits next to the beach, and its romantic charm makes for the ideal getaway for travel couples.

Then you have beach house resorts like Block Island Beach House , which is perfect for group vacations with friends.

You can also check out many other accommodation options in Rhode Island here .

5. Madison, Connecticut

Just 20 minutes from the more well-known city of New Haven, Madison is one of the best small-town East Coast hidden gems.

Madison is a great place to live like a local for a few days. Its walkable area makes it easy to explore its fascinating culture and nature.

Be sure to check out these spots:

Hammonasset Beach State Park: a relaxing beach with a boardwalk, trails, and camping.
Timberlands: a massive hiking area surrounded by natural beauty.
Downtown Madison: walkable area close to Tuxis Pond with boutiques, cafes, restaurants, and more.

Where to Stay in Madison

If you enjoy camping, you’re going to love Madison for its many campgrounds!

The Homestead is a fan-favourite accommodation with its private beach area and homey decor. There are also charming hotels and cosy inns.

You can also check out many other accommodation options in Connecticut here .

6. Ithaca, New York

On a recent road trip to the Northeast, Ithaca quickly became one of my favourite East Coast hidden gems. I’ve even considered moving there because I love it so much!

What I appreciated most about Ithaca is that it’s bursting with friendly locals – a far cry from your typical New York vibe.

It’s also situated next to the beautiful Cayuga Lake, with most sites offering picture-perfect views.

While Ithaca is mainly known for Cornell University, this quaint city has no shortage of fun activities such as:

Stewart Park: a gorgeous lakefront park.
Indian Creek Farm: a produce market with a massive farm open to exploring.
Downtown Ithaca: an eclectic area with shopping and dining.
Wells Fall: a short walk to a beautiful waterfall.

Where to Stay in Ithaca

When I went to Ithaca, I was van-camping and stayed at a Hipcamp. With that said, there are also plenty of great hotel options in Ithaca.

Cayuga Lake Inn is a cosy bed & breakfast with lake views. To stay in the heart of downtown, check out the Ithaca Marriott .

You can also check out many other accommodation options in New York here .

7. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach is a vibrant beach town perfect for a summer trip to the ocean. It boasts 30 miles of stunning coastline and offers tons of beach activities.

While many Delaware locals love a trip to Rehoboth, it’s often overlooked by beach bums looking for their next vacation destination.

Its most famous attraction is the beach boardwalk, lined with shops and restaurants. Other activities and sites to enjoy in Rehoboth Beach are:

Poodle Beach: a change of scenery from the main beach that dog beachgoers adore.
Lake Gerar Park: a tranquil lakeside park with a walking path and fishing pier.
Funland: a small but enjoyable amusement park.
Gordons Pond State Park: a waterfront state park with nature trails and beach access.

Where to Stay in Rehoboth Beach

While there aren’t many hotels in Rehoboth, the best ones are close to the beach.

Ocean Glass Inn offers a laid-back beach vibe, while The Bellmoor Inn and Spa is a luxurious, adults-only hotel.

You can also find many vacation rental options around Rehoboth on sites like VRBO and Airbnb.

You can also check out many other accommodation options in Delaware here .

8. Roanoke, Virginia

If you’re looking for a unique place to visit on the East Coast with tons of outdoor adventures, you’ll love Roanoke.

It’s nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains and offers incredible views alongside endearing small-town charm.

It’s easy to spend your entire trip outdoors. Here are some of my favourite activities in Roanoke:

Smith Mountain Lake: the second largest freshwater lake in VA, where you can go camping and enjoy water activities.
Mill Mountain Park: home to the iconic Roanoke star and boasts scenic hiking and biking trails atop the mountain.
Carvins Cove Natural Reserve: a massive park with various trails and incredible views.

Where to Stay in Roanoke

I prefer camping while exploring Roanoke to enjoy the unmatched outdoor experiences. Smith Mountain Lake or Explore Park are both great options, but there are many others.

If hotels or vacation rentals are more your style, you can also find those in Roanoke. Shirley’s Bed & Breakfast is my top choice – a log homestay tucked away from the hustle.

You can also check out many other accommodation options in Virginia here .

9. Little Switzerland, North Carolina

Little Switzerland is easily one of the coolest places to visit on the East Coast.

This charming mountain community is situated 3,000 feet above sea level in the North Carolina mountains. Honestly, the views are some of the best I’ve ever seen!

While you could easily spend your day sitting on a vacation rental deck taking in the scenery, be sure to check out these Little Switzerland adventures :

Emerald Village: a group of 12 gem, mining, and historical attractions (closed during winter).
Grassy Creek Falls: a large waterfall surrounded by nature trails.
The DiamondBack Road: a winding mountain highway that offers incredible views.

Where to Stay in Little Switzerland

I recommend taking advantage of one of Little Switzerland’s many inns and lodges in the mountains.

You’ll soon see why they are considered unique places to stay on the East Coast, with each providing a one-of-a-kind experience.

Little Switzerland Inn is a popular lodge in the mountains. For a quaint bed & breakfast experience, check out La Petite Chalet .

You can also check out many other accommodation options in North Carolina here .

Tip – Many accommodations in Little Switzerland are closed during the winter.

10. Greenville, South Carolina

Greenville is an up-and-coming city nestled at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Once a small town, it’s now booming with fantastic food, outdoor adventure, and cultural events.

With various things to do and see (and eat!) in Greenville, you can easily spend a week or two. Here are some of my top recommendations:

Falls Park: a nature lover’s paradise with green spaces, benches, walking paths, and gardens.
Downtown Greenville: an energetic area bursting with restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. Check out Tupelo Honey for a delicious southern fare.
Paris Mountain State Park: a beautiful park with fishing, swimming, hiking, and biking.

Where to Stay in Greenville

As Greenville has started growing, you can find more and more vacation rentals and hotels throughout the city.

Aloft is a modern hotel in the heart of downtown Greenville, where you can enjoy an on-site bar, restaurant, and swimming pool.

You can also check out many other accommodation options in South Carolina here .

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11. Folly Beach, South Carolina

Folly Beach is one of the best hidden gem vacation spots on the East Coast.

Having lived nearby in Charleston for many years, Folly Beach holds a special place in my heart. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you’re looking to unwind.

Aside from lying on the beach and enjoying water activities at Folly Beach, here are some other top things to see and do:

Dining: Lost Dog and Taco Boy are amongst some of the best restaurants on Folly Beach.
James Island County Park: a tranquil park with hiking, biking, picnicking, and camping.
Downtown Charleston: a bustling area with shopping, dining, nightlife, and historical sites; about a 15-minute drive from Folly Beach.

Where to Stay on Folly Beach

My favourite places to stay on Folly Beach are vacation rentals near the beach and camping at James Island County Park. There are also several great hotels, including the stunning Tides Hotel located right on the water.

12. Helen, Georgia

I recently visited Helen, Georgia and was blown away! I never expected this unassuming city to be amongst the cool places to visit on the East Coast.

When I went for its iconic Oktoberfest event, I quickly learned that Helen has a lot to offer for a weekend getaway.

This adorable mountain town is known for Bavarian-style buildings, but that’s not all. Be sure also to c heck out these cool places and experiences:

Hardman Farm Heritage Trail: a moderate, peaceful hike along the River.
Habersham Winery: a locally-owned winery well worth a visit.
Unicoi Hill Park: a park off the beaten path with a waterfall, walking paths, and grassy areas.
Downtown Helen: a unique Bavarian-style area with shops, restaurants, and pubs.

Where to Stay in Helen

As Helen started welcoming travellers several years back, hotels and inns have been popping up around the city.

Valhalla Resort Hotel looks like something out of a movie with stunning mountain panorama and distinctive decor. There are also simpler hotels closer to the city’s centre.

You can also check out many other accommodation options in Georgia here .

13. Amelia Island, Florida

Last up for the best hidden gem vacation spots on the East Coast is another dreamy beach destination. And a must-visit if you’re ever planning a trip to Florida .

Amelia Island is a barrier island situated on Florida’s Atlantic coast. With miles of sandy beaches and an abundance of local wildlife, it’s a nature lover’s paradise!

So, what is there to do on Amelia Island aside from relaxing on the beach?

Egan’s Creek Greenway: an Instagram-worthy creekside trail with unmatched views and unique wildlife sightings.
Fort Clinch State Park: miles of nature trails and coastline.
Historic Fernandina Beach District: an area boasting trendy shops, restaurants, and bars along with some historical sites.

Where to Stay on Amelia Island

There’s a great selection of accommodations on Amelia Island, with various hotels and vacation rental companies. I recommend splurging on a hotel that’s close to the water, like the quaint Seaside Amelia Inn .

Some people also opt to stay closer to the city by Fernandina Beach. While the city centre is just a couple of miles from Amelia Island, there’s a lot more to do.

Personally, I prefer the more tranquil vibe on Amelia Island.

You can also check out many other accommodation options in Florida here .

Enjoy These Hidden Gem Vacation Spots on the East Coast

I hope these cool places to visit on the East Coast have inspired you to get off the beaten path and experience somewhere new.

All of these hidden gems offer experiences like no other and make for some of the most unique vacation destinations in the world.

If you have any to add to the list, feel free to share them in the comments below. We love to hear from you!

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Check out the rest of our awesome East Coast articles in our East Coast USA Series to help you with your travel planning.

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Guest Author

Polly is a freelance writer from the US. She loves to explore and spent over a year living in and traveling around Southeast Asia. Polly has many more places on her bucket list and currently travels around the United States. Along with writing and traveling, she loves coffee, craft beer, and spending time outdoors. You can see more of Polly at pollycloverwrites.com.

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We’re Charlotte & Natalie, a British lesbian couple with a passion for travel and adventure.

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19 Historic Sites on the East Coast That You Should Visit

Carlos and I are both history buffs and we love visiting landmarks and historic places. This is why we joined forces with other travel bloggers to come up with some of the must-visit historic sites on the East Coast of the U.S.

Let me tell you that this list is meant to be bookmarked to use for your future trip planning. Even more so, it’s the perfect East Coast history road trip !

From Florida up to New York, these are some of the most amazing historic sites to visit to add to your historic sites bucket list.

Disclaimer: Some affiliate links are placed in this content which means we receive a percentage of the revenue made from purchasing products via those links–at no extra cost to you . All of the opinions are our own. Thank you for supporting our blog!

Historic Sites on the East Coast of the U.S.

1. old fort jackson, georgia.

old fort jackson historic sites on the east coast

For our contribution to this list, I wanted to include one of my personal favorites. Old Fort Jackson, located in Savannah, is one of the historic attractions that you don’t want to miss!

This 1808 fort is among the oldest East Coast landmarks and was employed as a defense during the Civil War.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including daily cannon firings, demonstrations, and drills. Sidenote: I loved walking the grounds of this fort!

You will also love the amazing view of Savannah’s riverfront from its top. Open every day from 9 am – 5 pm with admission fees at $10 per adult and $7 per child.

🗺 EXPLORE : Check out some of the best historic tours in Savannah , Georgia.

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2. George Washington National Birthplace Monument, Virginia

Contributed by Erin of Go Hike Virginia

George Washington National Birthplace Monument sits on 550 acres of Popes Creek Plantation in Colonial Beach, Virginia . Our first president, George Washington, lived his first years of life here —making this one of the must-see historic sites on the East Coast. He lived here before the family moved to Mount Vernon, then later to Fredericksburg, Virginia.

There are no original structures, but visitors will find a Memorial House Museum, a garden from the Colonial Revival era (1860-1940) and a farm building, even sheep, cows and hogs. There are also two nature trails, picnic areas and a sandy beach area for fishing, canoeing and kayaking.

The two easy hiking trails are the Nature Trail and the Dancing Marsh Trail . It’s easy to cobble these two trails together to create a nearly 2.0-mile loop for a walk around the perimeter of the one-time plantation. Several well-placed benches allow visitors to relax and enjoy the views.

For families with young children, pick up a Junior Ranger activity booklet in the visitor center. Kids can earn a badge and be sworn in as a Junior Ranger by completing several activities, such as a scavenger hunt and coloring pages.

There is no fee to visit the George Washington National Birthplace Monument, and parking is plentiful. From any parking space, you’re not more than a few steps from the visitor center and on-site restrooms.

3. Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

Contributed by Victoria of Florida Trippers

dry tortugas national park in key west florida

Looking for one of the most historic sites on the East Coast of the USA? If so then you can’t beat Dry Tortugas National Park in Florida.

See, this hidden gem sits 70 miles off the coast of Key West. And because of its remote location, this 100-square-mile park, featuring seven unique islands, rarely receives more than 60,000 visitors annually.

So, you’ll have the place all to yourself as you explore the remains of historic Fort Jefferson. In fact, it was a haven for ships during the 19th century and allowed them to resupply, refit, and enjoy refuge behind the walls of the fort before heading back out into the Caribbean.

Therefore, after visiting the fort be sure to go snorkeling in the pristine waters around Moat Wall before relaxing at South Swim Beach and enjoying the view.

Next, go snorkeling at Garden Key before grabbing a kayak and heading out to Loggerhead Key to see the turtles there. However, to get to the park you’ll need to board the Yankee Freedom III ferry from Key West.

Tickets cost around $190 per person and allow you to enjoy a two-hour ride to the park. And while the price is a bit high, lunch is included and the journey is quite picturesque too.

KEY WEST TRAVEL TIP : Finish your day itinerary with a cruise dinner or a sunset sail.

4. Fort Zachary Taylor, Florida

Contributed by Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Fort Zachary Taylor is a historic landmark located in Key West, Florida , that is a must-visit for anyone interested in history or outdoor recreation.

The fort was built in the mid-1800s to defend the country’s southern coastline and played a significant role in several wars, including the Civil War and the Spanish-American War.

Today, visitors can explore the fort and its surroundings, which include hiking trails, picnic areas, and a stunning beach. The hiking trails wind through the surrounding vegetation and offer stunning views of the coastline and the fort itself.

Visitors can also swim, snorkel, or relax on the sandy beach, which is one of the most beautiful in Key West .

Parking at Fort Zachary Taylor is limited, but there is a parking lot located near the entrance of the park. The fee for parking is $2.50 per hour or $6 per day. Additionally, there is an entrance fee to the park, which is $2.50 per person for pedestrians or $8 per vehicle.

Visitors to Fort Zachary Taylor can learn about the fort’s history by taking a guided tour or exploring the exhibits and artifacts on display in the museum. The fort also hosts special events throughout the year, such as reenactments and living history displays, which bring the site’s history to life.

In addition to Fort Zachary Taylor, many other attractions in Key West are worth visiting, such as the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, the Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, and the Southernmost Point Buoy.

Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor recreation, or simply relaxing on the beach, Fort Zachary Taylor and Key West have something to offer everyone.

5. Fort De Soto, Florida

Contributed by Candice from Exploring the Gulf

The historical influence of Fort De Soto in Florida comes from its original purpose, as a military hub , serving defense and communication purposes in the early 1900s. The fort ruins can still be explored today.

History aside, Fort De Soto Park’s North Beach has been nationally hailed as one of the best beaches for families. If you’re traveling with kids , the beach water temperature should be comfortable.

They will be in paradise splashing along the beach while finding colorful seashell treasures. The pirate ship playground is also a hit with the youngsters.

Fort De Soto is also a prime place for spotting a wide variety of wildlife. If you’re interested in going on an expedition of your own, this area is a fun spot to rent a kayak and explore the paddling trails through the mangroves. Manatees, turtles and various birds call this area home, so you never know what you might come across!

Fort De Soto features a seven-mile paved trail that is popular with runners and cyclists. If you’d rather explore on foot, south of North Beach are several unpaved nature trails just waiting to be explored.

There is a $5 per car parking/entrance fee, but that is a small price to pay for spending a day in the sun at such a beautiful historic place.

6. Castillo de San Marcos, Florida

Contributed by Kristin from Growing Global Citizens

The city of St. Augustine on Florida’s northwest coast is a treasure trove of historic sites . St. Augustine was founded in 1565 by the Spanish and is the oldest permanent European settlement in the continental U.S.

There are several places of historical importance to visit like The Government House, which has photos and exhibits about the city of Saint Augustine, and the old Alcazar Hotel, which is now a museum.

One of the most famous historic sites on the East Coast is Castillo San Marcos or Saint Mark’s Fort. This National Monument is over 450 years old and has been under Spanish, British and American rule.

The fort is very popular with visitors because of its well-preserved ramparts and lively historical reenactments. When I visited, dozens of costumed reenactors told me all about their life at the fort before conducting a cannon firing. Check which events are being held before you visit.

The fort is easy to get to, as it is in the center of town and right on the water. Parking can be difficult to find in St. Augustine. If you can’t fit in the small lot right in front of the fort, the main St. Augustine city lot is within walking distance.

Admission is valid for a week and is $15 for adults with children under 16 admitted for free. Read more about how to visit Castillo San Marcos .

7. Fort Macon Historic Site, North Carolina

Contributed by Jessica from Past Lane Travels

fort macon historic sites on the east coast

If you’re planning a vacation on the “Crystal Coast” of North Carolina, don’t forget to add the historic site of Fort Macon State Park to your must-see list.

Built between 1826 and 1834, Fort Macon’s original purpose was to guard the coastline against plundering pirates and foreign adversaries. It ended up being used during the Civil War, the Spanish-American War, and World War II.

Need somewhere to take the kids on a cloudy day? There is no cost to explore the entire five-sided fort including 26 vaulted rooms, powder magazines and artillery emplacements . If you plan ahead you might even get to see a live cannon firing demonstration.

By the way, Fort Macon consists of 2,379,546 bricks – more than any other U.S. fort.

This fort, one of the most amazing historic sites on the East Coast, is right on the beach, which is a great place for swimming, shell hunting and dolphin watching . There are also an estimated 302 different species of birds in Fort Macon park.

You can do even more exploring on the park’s hiking trails. There is a short quarter-mile nature trail with informational signs about plants and animals, as well as a longer nature trail that is about 3.2 miles round trip.

Parking is free and plentiful. Bring water and bug repellant. The fort is only a few miles from the charming seaside town of Beaufort, where you can visit the Old Burying Ground Cemetery. A young girl who died at sea in the 1700s is buried in a rum keg here.

8. The Liberty Bell, Pennsylvania

Contributed by Rebecca from Veggies Abroad

The State Bell, better known as the Liberty Bell, has long been an iconic symbol of American independence and freedom. The bell was first hung in Independence Hall in 1751 , and upon ringing, it cracked, forcing the metal workers to create a new bell (it actually cracked three times before being retired).

The bell was used to summon lawmakers and townspeople for important news , including the reading of the Declaration of Independence.

The bell was inscribed with “Proclaim liberty throughout all the land unto all the inhabitants thereof,” which abolitionists, suffragists, and civil rights leaders used as a rallying cry for freedom.

Today a replica of the bell hangs proudly in the Liberty Bell Center, around the corner from Independence Hall. Admission into the center is free, and it’s open daily from 9 AM – 5 PM.

In addition to visiting the bell on your own, you can learn more about its history on one of the many historical walking tours . These are terrific for learning about Philadelphia’s history and provide an overview of other historical sights and museums that you should check out.

After checking out The Liberty Bell Center, walk over to Reading Terminal for a snack or lunch. It’s home to Philly’s only vegan deli, Luhv. If that doesn’t interest you, there are many other fantastic restaurants, many with vegan options, in Philadelphia.

9. Mt. Vernon, Virginia

Contributed by Chelsea from Adventures of Chels

A historic site on the U.S. East Coast that shouldn’t be missed is Mt. Vernon —the home of President George Washington, located just 30 minutes away from Washington DC.

The Washington family owned the property from 1674 until 1761 when George Washington became the sole owner. This is the residence he and his wife Martha lived in. The estate was a plantation in which slaves worked to build and maintain the property.

In his will which was written a few months before his passing, Washington left specific instructions regarding the emancipation of the slaves he owned. This history is respectfully taught at Mt. Vernon today.

Mt. Vernon —one of the East Coast landmarks, sits on a hill that overlooks the Potomac River . The outer grounds can be explored without a tour. This includes the outer buildings, farms, trails, tomb Museum and Education Center.

Entrance fees to the grounds and outdoor areas of Mt. Vernon are $28 for adults (12+ years), $15 for youth (6-11 years) and free for children (0-5 years). It’s an additional $2 per ticket to tour the mansion itself.

Be sure to book tickets online in advance as entry times to enter the mansion are required and can fill up. Free visitor parking is available at the site. Enjoy your visit to historical Mt. Vernon!

More Historic Sites to Visit on the U.S. East Coast

10. colonial williamsburg, virginia.

Contributed by Melissa from Parenthood and Passports

colonial Williamsburg historic sites on the east coast

Located in southeast Virginia, Colonial Williamsburg is the world’s largest living history museum . The historic area covers 300 acres and includes more than 88 original buildings dating back to colonial times before the US became a country.

This fascinating historic site recreates life in a colonial town and offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience what life was like in the 18th century.

Historic interpreters dressed in period clothing roam the streets, conversing with visitors in character and demonstrating colonial-era trades and crafts such as wig-making, woodworking, and silversmithing.

One of the most popular things to do in Williamsburg, Virginia for families , Colonial Williamsburg is an educational experience and a hands-on history lesson.

You can tour historic homes including the Governor’s Palace and step inside authentic and restored buildings like the original Colonial Capitol Building.

Through its programming and exhibits, this historic site helps visitors understand the complex history of colonization in the Americas and includes tours that address even the ugliest side of American history, like slavery.

While tickets can be pricey at around $50 per person if you want to enter the buildings, Colonial Williamsburg is well worth it! It is an immersive experience where you’ll literally walk the same streets George Washington did in the early years of a nation’s beginning.

RECOMMENDED TOUR : Go back in time and explore five historic sites in this tour of America’s Historic Triangle , beginning with Colonial Williamsburg.

11. Fort Sumter National Monument, South Carolina

Contributed by Rachel from Means to Explore

Fort Sumter in South Carolina’s Charleston Harbor is one of the most important historical sites on the east coast. The first shots of the American Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter , beginning the long-overdue yet horrific fight to end slavery in the United States.

After the Civil War, Fort Sumter remained in service for almost another century, defending this important Southern port city through the end of World War II.

To get to Fort Sumter National Monument, you have to take an authorized concessioner ferry boat with Fort Sumter Tours. There is technically no National Park Service entrance fee for Fort Sumter, but you can’t get there without the ferry, which you have to pay for to reserve a ticket.

Note that National Park Passes aren’t accepted by the concessioner . Tickets are $35 per adult. Ferries leave from two locations on the Cooper River: the Patriot’s Point dock on the Mount Pleasant side and the National Park Service dock at Liberty Square on the Charleston side.

Parking at Patriot’s Point is $5 per vehicle per day. The best parking for Liberty Square is the Aquarium Wharf parking garage for $2 per hour or $18 daily max.

Charleston is steeped in history, and there are plenty of things to do in Charleston once you’re done exploring Fort Sumter. Take a walking tour or carriage tour of Charleston’s downtown historic district. Alternatively, head to the beaches for a day of sunbathing or explore one of Charleston’s historic plantations .

12. The Battery, South Carolina

Contributed by Sam from Find Love & Travel

A must-visit historic site that resides on the East Coast of the USA is The Battery, located in Charleston, South Carolina. In fact, it is actually one of Charleston‘s most visited spots and one of the best places for a scenic walk!

The battery is a sea wall that was built to protect the city from intruders coming by sea back in the 1750s. It was built using large boulders and stone at the time and was crucial in protecting Charleston during the Civil War.

Aside from the historical aspect, the views that can be seen here are what captivates tourists to add this elevated walking path to their Charleston itinerary , and keeps locals coming back time and time again.

From The Battery, you can see Sullivans Island lighthouse , Fort Sumter (where the first shots of the Civil War happened), and amazing sunset views.

The mansions that line The Battery are not only stunning but there is also a unique story to tell. Take a short stroll around the area and find charming alleys, historic mansions, and White Point Garden which is another historic landmark in South Carolina.

Visiting The Battery is completely free and you can find street parking along the battery or near White Point Garden.

That being said, Charleston, South Carolina is very walkable and includes other must-visit historic sites on the East Coast like Drayton Hall and the McLeod Plantation Historic Site. You will be able to easily walk straight from your hotel to the destination and into Charleston’s panoramic views!

Save it for later!

13. Plimouth Patuxet, Massachusetts

Contributed by Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA

Plimoth Patuxet is one of the oldest sites from the Colonial era that can be visited today. Located in Plymouth, Massachusetts, Plimoth Patuxet is actually a group of museums and sites where visitors can learn about the European colonists who arrived on the Mayflower more than 400 years ago.

There is much to unpack at this location, which is reflected in the name itself.

Formerly known as Plimoth Plantation, the name was changed to Plimoth Patuxet in July 2020. Sharing the stories and perspectives of the Indigenous Wampanoag has been a part of this living history museum for years, but the name change reflects the two sides of this story that bear equal importance.

Visit a recreated 17th-century English village where actors in full costume demonstrate what life was like at the time. Also visit the Wampanoag Homesite, where you can speak to museum guides and professionals from the Wampanoag Nation who can talk about life in the 17th Century through today.

Parking is free here, just note that the museum is spread over 40 acres and not all areas are ADA-accessible.

You can also go to downtown Plymouth to visit the Mayflower II, which is on the National Register of Historic Places (and also not ADA-accessible). Parking in Plymouth Center is typically by meter or you can use one of the downtown lots.

There are tons of other great things to do in Plymouth while you’re there, so don’t rush in and out!

You’ll have to drive between the locations and you can purchase a combination pass for both Plimoth Patuxet and the Mayflower II for $39.95.

14. Freedom Trail, Massachusetts

Contributed by Francesca from Home Room Travel

One of the best historic sites on the East Coast lies in Boston : The Freedom Trail. The Freedom Trail is a 2.5-mile path that winds through Boston and connects many historical sites. These sites are all a part of Boston National Historical Park .

The Freedom Trail is a must-visit stop in Boston, especially for those who love history. By stopping at the sites along the trail, visitors really get a feel for what it was like in the colonial and American Revolutionary eras .

The first stop along the Freedom Trail is the Bunker Hill Monument. Here visitors can learn about the Battle at Bunker Hill and how it contributed to the American Revolution.

Other popular stops along the Freedom Trail include the Massachusetts State House, the Granary Burial Grounds, the Old State House, the Boston Massacre Site, the USS Constitution, and the Boston Common.

There is no need for a car when visiting Boston and the Freedom Trail as visitors can walk or take the metro everywhere. Many of the sites along the Freedom Trail are free , but a few require a small fee. Nevertheless, you can still see the majority of the sites and not have to pay any entrance fees!

15. Hamilton Grange, New York

Contributed by Tamar from World by Weekend

Located in the Hamilton Heights neighborhood of upper Manhattan is Hamilton Grange , the country home of Alexander Hamilton, one of the founding fathers of the United States of America .

Hamilton built the home in 1802 as an escape from the bustle of city life. While it’s now surrounded by apartment highrises, it’s hard to believe that this part of Manhattan was once rural farmland .

Unfortunately for Hamilton, he only lived in the house for two years before his untimely death in 1804.

Hamilton Grange is a must-visit historic sight on the East Coast of the US because of its ties to one of the most influential people in early US history.

Alexander Hamilton was instrumental in the push toward independence from Britain . He also helped write the Federalist Papers, which promoted the ratification of the Constitution. At Hamilton Grange, you can learn about his legacy and impact at the onsite museum.

You can also take a guided tour of the home and learn about the personal life of this historic figure, who along with his wife raised 8 children.

Hamilton Grange National Memorial is part of the National Parks Service and is free to enter . Street parking in the neighborhood is hard to come by. The best way to reach Hamilton Grange is via bus, subway, or taxi.

RECOMMENDED TOUR : Go behind the scenes of the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Cathedral in this tour of the New York Catacombs.

16. 9/11 Memorial & Museum, New York

Contributed by Martha from May Cause Wanderlust

One of the most significant events in US history is the terrorist attack of September 11th, 2001. For this reason, many visitors, and certainly most first-time visitors will include a visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum as part of their New York City itinerary .

This historic site marks the day when a coordinated attack was launched against the United States and four commercial planes were hijacked and flown into significant buildings. 2,977 innocent people were killed and in New York City, the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center were both destroyed.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum contains a museum exhibition that gives a deeper understanding of 9/11, the lead-up to the attack, and its ongoing impact.

The memorial is outside: on the footprint of what was the Twin Towers , there are now two square pools.

With the names of all 2,977 victims engraved on the marble around them and water cascading down into the sunken pools, the pools are an elegant and evocative monument to the fallen buildings and those who died.

There’s also Survivor Tree, a pear tree that, against all odds, survived the terror attacks.

In place of the two towers, One World Trade Centre (also known as Freedom Tower) was built and opened in 2014. The One World Observatory at the top offers an elevated view over Manhattan and the Hudson River.

And if you want to see what else is near the Memorial, consider some of the landmarks in Lower Manhattan, including Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange, the Charging Bull statue, Battery Park, and the Staten Island ferry, from which you can see the Statue of Liberty.

17. Fort McHenry Monument, Maryland

Contributed by Lola from Deyewa

The Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine is an unforgettable place to visit . Located in Baltimore, Maryland, this iconic spot was the site of a pivotal battle during the War of 1812 and inspired Francis Scott Key to write the poem that later became “ The Star-Spangled Banner ,” the US national anthem.

It’s been designated as a National Historic Landmark and today it serves as both a museum and memorial honoring those who fought for freedom during America’s formative years.

Visiting Fort McHenry is more than just a history lesson – it’s an inspiring experience that will leave you with an appreciation for the sacrifices made by brave men and women throughout American history.

Visitors to the Fort McHenry National Monument can take a guided tour of the fort and learn about its fascinating history . They can also watch a 10-minute film that gives an overview of the fort’s significance in the War of 1812 and its role in shaping the country’s national identity.

The visitor center features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and displays that showcase the life of soldiers and their families during the early years of the fort’s existence.

One of the highlights of a visit to Fort McHenry National Monument is witnessing the c hanging of the flag ceremony . This ceremony, which takes place every morning at the fort, involves raising the American flag and lowering the flag of the previous day in a solemn ritual that honors the nation’s history and values.

Another notable feature of the fort is its beautiful location, which offers stunning views of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Visitors can take a stroll along the waterfront promenade or have a picnic on the grassy areas near the fort while taking in the picturesque scenery.

When visiting, there is a ton of parking available for guests plus lots of restrooms on-site.

There is an entrance fee of $15 per adult aged 16 and above. The monument is free for children 15 years and younger.

Whether you are into history, going for a school field trip, or just a family hangout, Fort McHenry is an amazing Baltimore Harbor attraction and is worth a visit!

18. Yale University, Connecticut

Contributed by Lyndsay from The Purposely Lost

yale university historic sites on the east coast

If you’re looking for fascinating historical sites to visit on the East Coast, look no further than Yale University.

As one of the oldest universities in the country , Yale’s sprawling campus is steeped in history and tradition, making it a must-visit destination for history buffs and curious tourists.

Of the many things to do around Yale , one of the most impressive landmarks to visit is the Beinecke Rare Book and Manuscript Library.

This awe-inspiring building is home to some of the world’s most valuable and rare books and manuscripts .

You can’t help but be struck by the breathtaking building, which uses pieces of Vermont marble instead of windows to illuminate the building’s interior with a soft glow.

Yale’s campus is also home to the Skull & Bones Tomb . This secret society has included three former United States presidents and several other influential Americans among its ranks over the years.

But that’s not all. With several world-renowned museums featuring vast collections of art, artifacts, and fossils , you’ll spend hours wandering around the campus.

Since Yale University is located in New Haven, Connecticut, you can take a moment to explore the city.

Grab a table at Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana, home of some of the best pizza in the United States, shop at the Shops at Yale, or go hiking in one of the city’s parks.

19. The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, Washington D.C.

Contributed by Taylor from Traverse with Taylor

World War II was a particularly horrible time in history, in part because of the Holocaust. This systematic murder of 12 million people, including 6 million Jews, by the Nazi party, was horrific.

At Holocaust sites all over the world , memorials and museums have been erected to honor the memory of those who were murdered. I

It just so happens that one of the foremost educational and historic sites connected with the Holocaust is right here on the East Coast of the United States.

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, located in downtown Washington D.C., is one of the foremost museums in the world.

It was opened to the public in 1993, and since that has amassed significant numbers of archives, artifacts, and testimonies connected to the Shoah.

EXPLORE : See Washington DC’s key attractions in this full-day tour .

This is one of the top must-see historic sites on the East Coast to visit during your time in Washington, D.C. Learn about the incredibly somber history of the Holocaust by exploring the museum’s permanent exhibition, a chronological walk through four floors of research and information.

You’ll see tons of artifacts including a replica of a train car used to transport Jews, a bunk from the Auschwitz museum , and thousands of shoes found at the liberation of Auschwitz. In addition, you’ll hear survivor testimonies and possibly even meet one in person!

The Museum Green of Washington D.C. is nearby, as is the Washington Monument and many other popular attractions. Though, you’ll want to identify a parking garage ahead of time as finding a spot in the city can be tough!

Entrance to the museum is free, though you do need a reserved timed ticket.

Which one of these historic sites on the East Coast are you adding to your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!

About the Author

Yanitza Ninett

Yanitza is an avid adventurer with 15+ years of hiking experience and outdoor travel. As a PADI-certified scuba diver, she's also passionate about ocean conservation. When she's not exploring the great outdoors, Yanitza obsesses over The Vampire Diaries and dreams of traveling to Mallorca, Spain.

Yanitza Ninett https://nextstopadventures.com/writer/nextstop Hiking the Little Grand Canyon in Georgia
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Yanitza Ninett https://nextstopadventures.com/writer/nextstop Boneyard Beach in Jacksonville: a Treasure Inside Big Talbot Island
Yanitza Ninett https://nextstopadventures.com/writer/nextstop The Ultimate One Bag Travel Packing List for Traveling Smarter

2 thoughts on “19 Historic Sites on the East Coast That You Should Visit”

I love visiting historical sites. It’s amazing what you learn and I always try to imagine those who stood on the same place I am standing. Maybe I’ve been watching too much ‘Outlander’.

You’re not watching too much Outlander! Carlos and I are the same way! lol

19 Best Places to Visit in the Fall East Coast | Find Your Perfect Getaway

Activities and Interests
Destinations
Fall Travel
Seasonal Travel

Note: The Travel Awaits team regularly updates content to provide the latest, and most accurate information to our readers. The updated content in this article may not reflect the views or opinions of the original author.

From New England to Florida, the East Coast is one of the best places to spend crisp autumn days. Below, TravelAwaits writers tell us about their favorite East Coast destinations to visit in the fall. Whether you’re after fall foliage or sunshine and sand, here are the best places to go on the East Coast in autumn.

19 Best Places to Visit in the Fall East Coast

1. acadia national park, maine.

“ Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island is a 47,000-acre park that is beautiful year-round. It has a 27-mile park loop with plenty of places to stop and enjoy the leaves and take photographs of the foliage.

“You can also visit the highest point along the East Coast at the park’s 1,527-foot Cadillac Mountain. You will have quite a view from there. Enjoy the leaves on maples and birches, along with a variety of evergreens. If you desire to get a bit of exercise, there are 120 miles of trails.

“You could spend a half or a whole day enjoying the colorful orange and red hues of nature in the park. The town of Bar Harbor is also fun with shops and many seafood restaurants. You could easily spend an entire weekend here.

“Spend the night in Bar Harbor at the Balance Rock Inn. It is a lovely hotel right on the water overlooking a secluded beach.” — Robin O’Neal Smith –

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Acadia National Park, Maine.

2. Stowe, Vermont

“You will enjoy spending time in Stowe, Vermont , a picturesque town ablaze with beautiful leaves in the fall season.

“There are hiking trails for those who desire a bit more exercise. Many restaurants feature farm-to-table dining and craft beer. Try a cider donut from one of the many country stores in the area.

“Spend the night in the European-style Trapp Family Lodge owned by the Austrian family who inspired The Sound of Music . They have rooms, suites, and villas as well as a variety of restaurants and activities.” — Robin O’Neal Smith

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Stowe, Vermont.

3. New Hampshire’s Lakes Region

fall foliage on a hike near Holderness in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire.

“The White Mountains of New Hampshire are probably the Granite State’s most famous spot for viewing fall foliage — for good reason. The scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway is among the country’s most gorgeous areas for admiring blankets of bright orange, golden yellow, and fiery red leaves in autumn.

“If you’re looking for a fall RV vacation destination that might have slightly fewer visitors in September and October, consider the Lakes Region. This area in the central part of the state is home to Lake Winnepesaukee , New Hampshire’s largest body of water. Here you’ll also find scenic Squam Lakes, where On Golden Pond was filmed.

“Whether you’re driving around the lakes, strolling through small towns like Meredith or Wolfeboro, seeking out covered bridges, taking a scenic boat cruise, or exploring the hiking trails in the area’s mountains, you’ll likely be able to enjoy pretty changing leaves. Keep up with where and when leaves are peaking with the state tourist association’s online foliage tracker.” — Kara Williams

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near New Hampshire’s Lakes Region.

The Best Picnic Baskets For Your Next Fall Outing

4. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Off the coast of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, picturesque Star Island makes for a relaxing half-day cruise and exploration.

“I was raised on the New England coast and never miss an opportunity to visit. When I want an urban getaway that’s still close to the shore, I head to Portsmouth, New Hampshire , just 10 minutes from the state’s short-but-spectacular East Coast shoreline. With all its beautifully preserved historic architecture and walkable streets, Portsmouth is photogenic and easy to explore. It also has a vibrant arts, culture, and dining scene.

“Besides appreciating the fiery foliage, top fall activities include biking, hiking, history and food tours, and live jazz and theater (the latter in a restored vaudeville house). Through early October, you can take a cruise out to the lovely, isolated Star Island . The boutique shopping scene is memorable, especially for new and preowned clothing, books, and local art and crafts. My favorite new addition to Portsmouth is Vent, an ‘alternative activity’ space where you can free your frustrations by splattering paint and smashing glass.” — Robin Catalano

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Portsmouth, New Hampshire

5. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

“I love Cape Cod any time of year, but autumn is extra special. The crowds of tourists have gone back to work, the summering students have returned to school, and the locals have begun to settle into their off-season routine.

“After Labor Day, many East Coast beaches, like Mayflower Beach in Dennis, loosen their dog restrictions. One of my favorite ways to spend a fall morning is to walk along the quiet beach with my dog happily chasing seagulls. It is one of those special moments — joyful and contemplative.

“The Cape Cod Rail T rail takes on brilliant fall colors, dotted between the evergreens; it provides a picturesque stroll through the towns and villages. A stop at Truro Vineyard for a wine tasting is a relaxing way to enjoy the cooler weather. A little further down Route 6 and you arrive in Provincetown where the streets are less congested. A brisk wind whips around Provincetown Harbor as you walk along the pier — a foretelling of the onset of freezing winter gales.” — Sandi Barrett

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

6. Newport, Rhode Island

“Oozing with New England East Coast charm, Newport is a beautiful, Rhode Island coastal town with outstanding views, amazing restaurants , and majestic mansions . The fall season festivities include pick-your-own orchards, harbor cruises (through mid-October), and ghost tours. Take a lantern-led tour through Newport’s oldest and most haunted locations on an Olde Town ghost walk, the most popular walking tour.

“If you’d rather take a ride, head to Pachet Brook Tree Farm in nearby Tiverton to take a 30-minute hayride through the fields and woods of the 90-acre family-run farm which terminates at the pumpkin patch (weekends through October). Or, join Rail Explorers for a fall ride on pedal-powered rail bikes along abandoned railroad tracks by the bay.

“Newport also hosts several festivals in the fall, including food fests such as Bowen’s Wharf Seafood Festival (October 15-16, 2022) and Newport Food Truck & Craft Beer Festival at Fort Adams State Park (Oct 15), both of which feature some of the best eats in the area.” — Laura Ray

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Newport, Rhode Island.

7. Hudson Valley, Upstate New York

“When it comes to crisp mornings and rich colors, it’s hard to beat the Hudson Valley in Upstate New York as a fall destination. Whether you head north from New York City or south from Albany, the best stops along the Hudson River stretch from Tarrytown to Catskill.

“Gallop with the Headless Horseman by visiting the real places that inspired Washington Irving’s short story in Sleepy Hollow ,” suggests Scott. “Admire the views once available to only the mega-rich by touring the grounds of Gilded Age mansions framed by yellow, orange, and red leaves. Or, get a bird’s eye view by walking over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie.

Feel the crunch of leaves under your boots when you hike with an alpaca in Hyde Park. Drink in the beauty of Kaaterskill Falls . Let the sounds of nature serenade you to sleep when you spend the night glamping at Treetopia in Catskill.” — Sage Scott

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Hudson Valley, Upstate New York.

8. Central Park, NYC

SJ Morgensen on Bow Bridge in NYC's Central Park

“It’s hard to pick just one spot to take in the fall beauty on the East Coast, but New York City and Central Park in particular is a top contender. The weather in the city is perfect, the crowds are lower than in the summer, and Central Park puts on a stunning display of fall foliage. We visited last year in early November and the leaves were just about at their peak. We planned the trip so we could experience fall in the city and also catch the Christmas markets , which are typically in full swing by the first part of November. Fall is my favorite time to visit NYC.” — SJ Morgensen

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Central Park, NYC.

9. Pennsylvania Fall Festivals

“Crisp air, vibrant autumn leaves, and the smell of apple cider and funnel cakes are just a few things that make you think of fall and the fantastic festivals in Pennsylvania . From the Bedford Fall Foliage Festival and the Ebensburg PotatoFest to the PA State Flaming Foliage Festival and the Lancaster Balloon Festival, there is a festival in Pennsylvania for everyone to enjoy.” — Robin O’Neal Smith

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Pennsylvania Fall Festivals.

10. Boonsboro, Maryland

“Fall road trippers should consider Boonsboro, Maryland , a town I visited this week. This charming small town, all dolled up for fall, has a walkable downtown area with a well-known pizzeria, inn, and tap house from Nora Roberts’s Inn BoonsBoro Trilogy. Roberts is from Boonsboro, where you will find the largest selection of her world-famous published books at Turn the Page Bookstore and much more. Try seasonal craft beer from Dan’s Restaurant & Tap House and cross your fingers that they have butternut squash soup on the fall menu.

“Leaf peeping is a popular outdoor activity, as is hiking to the first Washington Monument at Washington Monument State Park. It is an easy walk from the parking lot and on the Appalachian Trail. Be on the lookout for hawks, eagles, and falcons in the fall months. History lovers should take in the Antietam National Battlefield Civil War sites, 10 minutes away.” — Melody Pittman

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Boonsboro, Maryland.

11. Luray, Virginia

Skyline Drive in autumn, Shenandoah National Park.

“Luray, Virginia, is a beautiful location for fall adventures in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This charming small town offers delectable eateries, the famous Luray Caverns , wineries, and a scenery overload. See the massive stalactites, flowstones, and stalagmites at Luray Caverns, a cave system with the Great Stalacpipe Organ. Don’t miss the Garden Maze at the Caverns, the largest hedge maze in the Mid-Atlantic. Luray-Hawksbill Greenway is perfect for a two-mile walk or bike ride.

“Consider overnighting in a darling cottage with a jetted tub and fireplace at the Mimslyn Inn, a beautiful historic property with an onsite restaurant and bar, within walking distance of Historic Downtown Luray. I recommend the warm ham-wrapped brie appetizer from The Speakeasy, which also features live entertainment. Luray is a great spot for hopping on the central entry point of the scenic Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park , where the leaf-peeping should be primo.” — Melody Pittman

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Luray, Virginia .

12. Virginia Beach, Virginia

“Although thought of as a summer destination, Virginia Beach can be enjoyed in the fall. After Labor Day, vacation crowds have thinned out, water becomes a little cooler, and beaches on the South end of the East Coast are quieter. For me, this is an ideal time.

“Enjoy long walks along the beach and lunch at one of the local eateries. Head to Famous Al’s for one of their classic hot dogs with fixings. Slurp oysters at Chick’s Oyster Bar . My personal favorite is the mac and cheese at BoBo’s Fine Chicken whose recipes have been handed down from both family and friends.

“If you are looking to destress, get a massage or spa package at Salon@31st . Simply lying on the North End beaches or watching military aircraft land from First Landing Beach also helps put you in a relaxed state of mind. Mingle with locals in the ViBe district’s Young Veterans , Smartmouth , or The Bunker breweries.” — Keshler Thibert

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Virginia Beach, Virginia.

13. Hanging Rock State Park, North Carolina

Hanging Rock State Park in Danbury, North Carolina.

“ Hanging Rock State Park is 30 miles north of Winston-Salem. The park has more than 7,000 acres set in the Sauratown Mountains. Peaks here reach 2,500 feet. There are waterfalls, streams, and a lake. Hiking trails are a fantastic way to view the fall leaves on the rolling hills. Many of the trails here are moderate to strenuous, but there are a couple of ‘easy’ trails for strolling. The lake has great picture-taking angles. The picnic area near the lake has drinking water, restrooms, and wheelchair-accessible picnic tables.” — Loretta Berry

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Hanging Rock State Park, North Carolina.

14. Asheville, North Carolina

“Is there anything better than Asheville, NC , in the Blue Ridge Mountains? Asheville is home to the iconic Biltmore, the 8,000-acre Vanderbilt Estate. Now is a wonderful time to explore Asheville’s fall foliage, with dozens of deciduous color-changing trees, primarily in October. A mountain hike puts you amidst the red, orange, and yellow hues, and the brisk mountain air. Graveyard Fields on the Blue Ridge Parkway is one of the easy hiking trails, or choose Linville Falls Trails for its thundering waterfall.

“Enjoy appetizers and a local beer flight at Cedric’s Tavern, where the Tavern Pork Pie is superb, before touring the Biltmore Mansion, gardens, and grounds. Shopping is enjoyable at Antler Hill Village, where you can dive into the Creamery’s Winky Bar Sundae or partake in a complimentary wine tasting. Downtown Asheville should not be missed—with a mural trail, the Grove Arcade, Asheville Art Museum , and French Broad Chocolate Lounge’s artisanal candies.” — Melody Pittman

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Asheville, North Carolina. See our guide to the best Airbnbs in Asheville for more options.

15. Charleston, South Carolina

A ghost tour in Charleston, South Carolina.

“ Charleston is an exciting town at any time of year, but in the fall, when the weather is absolutely perfect, you will experience everything the so-called Holy City has to offer at the ideal temperature to enjoy it all.

“Charleston is an old city with a ton of history. It is known as one of the most haunted places in America. Even though they run year-round, the fall is a terrific time to take a ghost and graveyard tour as it affords you exclusive access to one of Charleston’s oldest graveyards after dark.” — Jeanine Consoli

Explore hotels and Airbnbs near Charleston, South Carolina.

16. Amelia Island, Florida

“ Amelia Island is the perfect fall getaway on the East Coast. It is a gorgeous location year round, but in fall, you have a very tranquil, uncrowded beach with lots of wide-open outdoor space.

“A barrier island just off the coast of northeast Florida, you will find your own little piece of paradise when you visit in the fall. The soft white sand won’t burn your feet, the pristine water is still warm, and the crowds are gone. The temperature in fall is in the 70s up to mid-80s.

“Historic downtown showcases some excellent specialty shops, eateries with all kinds of cuisines, the oldest bar in Florida, and more. Abundant outdoor activities include fishing, sailing, biking, hiking, golfing, and horseback riding on the beach. Take a historic tour or hit the spa. I just love walking on the beach and reading a book while sitting by the ocean. You can relax and savor the quiet and the wonders of the East Coast nature.

“Fall ushers in a myriad of festivals for visitors to enjoy from the Fish to Fork festival taking place on September 29 – October 2 to the Northeast Florida Fair happening October 13 – 23. You might also enjoy the Island Hop Craft Brew Fest and the Amelia Island Jazz Festival both happening in October.

“When we visited, we stayed in the newly built Springhill Suites by Marriott , and we loved having a bit of extra room in the suites, the pool area, and the wonderful Luna Fine Art Gallery, housed between the Springhill and the Courtyard hotel .

“I can’t imagine a better place to visit and make new memories when you are desiring a much-needed escape in the fall on the East Coast.” — Robin O’Neal Smith

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Amelia Island, Florida.

17. The Florida Keys

Sunset over the ocean as seen from the Key West Sunset Celebration at Mallory Square

“Fall is a special time to visit the East Coast Florida Keys . The heat is less oppressive, the crowds are smaller, and there are lots of events planned to lure visitors during this normally slow time of the year on the East Coast.

“ Fantasy Fest in Key West draws the biggest crowds. It’s highlighted by outrageous events and costumes, body painting, and lots of alcohol. The nine-day non-stop party in October is decidedly LGBTQ-friendly. There is a clothing-optional pool party for men. Women are encouraged to ‘ Rock the Tatas ,’ with the best tatas winning a $500 prize. Just about every bar in town has live music every night. This is not the place for bashful people.

“Things are a little tamer elsewhere in the Keys. Key Largo hosts REEF Fest in October, with sports diving on the offshore reef. In November you’ll find true gluttony at the Stone Crab Claw eating contest in Marathon. The Islamorada Sailfish Tournament is the first week in December.

“Check the official Keys website for a list of all events.” — Fred Mays

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near The Florida Keys.

18. North Conway, New Hampshire

North Conway, a picturesque village located in the town of Conway is a place I love visiting in the summer. But the fall season is stunningly beautiful there, and there’s still plenty to do. To put it simply, in North Conway, you will get a complete New Hampshire fall package. From scenic train rides and historic general stores to massive corn mazes and all the apple cider and donuts you can consume, you’ll experience everything.

It’s a very good destination for the outdoorsy types, although, with the lack of sales tax, I find that shopping in Settlers Green Outlet Village is an ever-growing attraction.

Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near North Conway, NH.

19. Kittery, Main

Several years ago, on my Main trip, I had the opportunity to visit Kittery, located right over the New Hampshire and Massachusetts border. Apart from numerous outlet stores, you’ll also have the option of eating at their delicious restaurants, such as Robert’s Maine Grill and Bob’s Clam Shack.

Also, don’t miss to stop at Yummies , a candy store filled from top to bottom with candy you won’t see anywhere else. So be sure to give the kids a budget before entering. Explore East Coast fall vacations hotels and Airbnbs near Kittery, Maine.

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What Are Family-Friendly Fall Destinations on the East Coast?

From north to south East Coast, places like Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, Tarrytown/ Sleepy Hollow, New York, Disneyland in Orlando, and many more are perfect for enjoying the cooler weather and taking the kids for a quick trip to enjoy the autumn weather. Check out our list of the best East Coast resorts for families for even more options.

Why Choose The East Coast For Fall Getaways?

The East Coast of the US offers a kaleidoscope of colors and charming destinations for travelers. From the picturesque landscapes of Arkansas to the enchanting places in Michigan, immerse yourself in the vibrant foliage, cozy towns, and seasonal delights.

Where Can I Find the Best Fall Foliage on an East Coast Getaway?

Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina, Route 100 in Vermont, and Kancamagus Highway in New Hampshire are some of the best scenic routes that offer stunning fall foliage on the East Coast.

Is The East Coast Good For a Romantic Getaway?

Yes. If you’re looking for a romantic fall getaway, there are plenty of options on the East Coast. Whether it’s a cozy cabin retreat, a vineyard tour, a scenic train ride or a drive, or a beach getaway, there are plenty of romantic activities for couples.

Is It Hard to Find a Cheap Fall Getaway on The East Coast?

No. The East Coast places like Hilton Head Island in South Carolina, Orlando, Florida, or even New York can be surprisingly cheap. There are fewer tourists and you’ll find affordable attractions and accommodations.

Laura Ray has lived in Atlanta, the Bay Area, SoCal, and Austin. After moving from Texas, she and her husband rambled about the Midwest in a camper for a couple of years before finally settling on 35 acres in their home state of Kentucky. When she isn't clacking around on the keyboard (cat in lap), you can find her practicing yoga, gardening, or playing the ukulele. This travel-lover's favorite destinations include Italy, the Greek isles, and Kentucky Lake.

The 20 Best Beaches the East Coast Offers

Posted: May 4, 2024 | Last updated: May 4, 2024

<p>Perhaps your dream is to spend a week in New York City or at a seaside Maldives resort, but the cost is a real budget-buster. Think about alternatives that give you some of the same vibe (a dynamic city or a chic place by the sea) for a lower price.</p><p>Family beach options in Mexico, for example, might be more affordable than a beach trip to the Maldives. And a trip to Philadelphia or Boston (both of which have plenty of history, museums, great food, and more) could help you shave down the price of a big-city getaway.</p>

Sand Hollers

When it comes to the country's most scenic and coveted coastlines, Americans tend to look west to California or even as far as Hawaii. But the East Coast is home to plenty of gems of its own for a couples getaway or a family vacation with the kids. We looked to online reviews from beachgoers and local guides, took into account sights to see, available activities, and overall beauty to bring you the best beaches along the East Coast that are worth a visit. From family-friendly havens to sands frequented by the rich and famous, and from Maine down to Florida, don't miss these underrated Atlantic Coast hot spots.

<p>One of the best things about vacations to Cove Beach in Cape May is the lighthouse. The historic structure still lights up the beach to create oceanfront enchantment each evening. It's a charming footnote to a full day of swimming, hunting seashells, and exploring the dunes for the kids. What's more, the entire New Jersey town and seaside resort — located at the end of the Cape May Peninsula — is a National Historic Landmark thanks to its exceptionally well-preserved Victorian buildings, built mainly during the late 19th century. Hotel accommodations in Cape May can get pricey, but with a bit of digging and advance planning, reasonably priced rentals can be found. </p><p><b>Related:</b> <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/us-lighthouses-14085/">18 Spectacular Lighthouses to See Across America</a></p>

Cove Beach | Cape May, New Jersey

One of the best things about vacations to Cove Beach in Cape May is the lighthouse. The historic structure still lights up the beach to create oceanfront enchantment each evening. It's a charming footnote to a full day of swimming, hunting seashells, and exploring the dunes for the kids. What's more, the entire New Jersey town and seaside resort — located at the end of the Cape May Peninsula — is a National Historic Landmark thanks to its exceptionally well-preserved Victorian buildings, built mainly during the late 19th century. Hotel accommodations in Cape May can get pricey, but with a bit of digging and advance planning, reasonably priced rentals can be found.

Bethany Beach | Delaware

The Diamond State might not be the first to come to mind when planning an East Coast beach vacation, but Bethany Beach in the Delaware town of the same name more than fills the bill. The town is small and quiet, offering plenty of privacy, but the beach is expansive and has a boardwalk for picking up souvenirs for the kids or grabbing lunch. The waves can get big enough for surfing.

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<p>With 60 miles of beach, a subtropical climate, and one of the best boardwalks on the East Coast for long summer vacations, South Carolina's Myrtle Beach is among the most famous summer destinations on the Atlantic to visit. A something-for-everyone hotspot, Myrtle Beach is a mecca for art enthusiasts and golf lovers. </p><p><b>Related:</b> <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/best-boardwalks-in-america/">40 Best Boardwalks in the United States</a></p>

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

With 60 miles of beach, a subtropical climate, and one of the best boardwalks on the East Coast for long summer vacations, South Carolina's Myrtle Beach is among the most famous summer destinations on the Atlantic to visit. A something-for-everyone hotspot, Myrtle Beach is a mecca for art enthusiasts and golf lovers.

Related: 40 Best Boardwalks in the United States

<p>When visiting Ocean City Beach, be sure to head to the 3-mile boardwalk, with all its shops, rides, carousel, and places to eat, there's plenty of things to do for the whole family. Bring the dog, too — pets are allowed on the beach and boardwalk. Visitors may even spot a few dolphins, which is always a special experience. There are 10 miles of beaches — all free — and two are reserved for surfers. Fishing is permitted year-round, while horseback riding is allowed off season. </p>

Ocean City Beach | Ocean City, Maryland

When visiting Ocean City Beach, be sure to head to the 3-mile boardwalk, with all its shops, rides, carousel, and places to eat, there's plenty of things to do for the whole family. Bring the dog, too — pets are allowed on the beach and boardwalk. Visitors may even spot a few dolphins, which is always a special experience. There are 10 miles of beaches — all free — and two are reserved for surfers. Fishing is permitted year-round, while horseback riding is allowed off season.

<p>"Quaint" is the name of the game on the island of Duck, tucked away in the scenic Outer Banks. On one side of the island is the ocean coast; on the other is scenic Currituck Sound. The town's clean beaches span 7 miles, and are all walkable from the village center's sound-front park, restaurants, and shops. The beautiful and charming island destination offers plenty of peace and privacy for families and couples. You'll find plenty of seaside rentals as well as the luxe Sanderling Resort.</p>

Duck, North Carolina

"Quaint" is the name of the game on the island of Duck, tucked away in the scenic Outer Banks. On one side of the island is the ocean coast; on the other is scenic Currituck Sound. The town's clean beaches span 7 miles, and are all walkable from the village center's sound-front park, restaurants, and shops. The beautiful and charming island destination offers plenty of peace and privacy for families and couples. You'll find plenty of seaside rentals as well as the luxe Sanderling Resort.

Related: 24 Secluded Beach Paradises

<p>Martha's Vineyard is one of America's classic summer beach colonies, and is just a short boat ride from Cape Cod. Its known for hosting a who's who of celebrities and socialites, from the Kennedys and the Obamas to Reese Witherspoon, but is charming and low-key compared with the pomp and glitz of its East Coast celebrity beach rival, the Hamptons. On Martha's Vineyard, you'll also find a wide variety of beaches, including large sandy shores perfect for larger families; quiet coves and calm waters that are great for little kids; and even hidden destinations for those looking for a bit of privacy and a secret getaway.</p><p><b>Related:</b> <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/where-to-see-celebrities/">22 Places to Hang Out Where You're Most Likely to See a Celebrity</a></p>

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Martha's Vineyard is one of America's classic summer beach colonies, and is just a short boat ride from Cape Cod. Its known for hosting a who's who of celebrities and socialites, from the Kennedys and the Obamas to Reese Witherspoon, but is charming and low-key compared with the pomp and glitz of its East Coast celebrity beach rival, the Hamptons. On Martha's Vineyard, you'll also find a wide variety of beaches, including large sandy shores perfect for larger families; quiet coves and calm waters that are great for little kids; and even hidden destinations for those looking for a bit of privacy and a secret getaway.

Related: 22 Places to Hang Out Where You're Most Likely to See a Celebrity

<p><b>Total state gas taxes and fees: </b>23 cents/gal.</p><p><b>Total including federal gas taxes:</b> 41.4 cents/gal.</p><p><b>Average price per gallon:</b> $4.25</p>

Rehoboth Beach, Delaware

Rehoboth Beach is especially popular with families, especially those looking for a seaside day trip from Dover or elsewhere in Delaware. The beaches are clean and scenic, though crowded during peak season. The boardwalk, which runs a full mile, is hyped as another of the East Coast's best and offers plenty of activities for the kids, eclectic shops for parents, and restaurants for the whole family. Whether you're looking for a weekend getaway or a longer stay, there are usually plenty of affordable summer rentals and oceanfront condos to be found on Airbnb.

<p>Leave sunbathing to the Southeast. Bar Harbor, which embodies New England's rugged eastern coastline, is made for family vacations with a bit of action and adventure. Rocky, rustic, and natural, the beach is nestled between the North Atlantic and the mountains, lakes, and rugged coastline of Maine's Acadia National Park.</p><p><b>Related:</b> <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/best-seafood-shacks/">Amazing Seafood Shacks to Visit in Maine and Across America</a></p>

Bar Harbor, Maine

Leave sunbathing to the Southeast. Bar Harbor, which embodies New England's rugged eastern coastline, is made for family vacations with a bit of action and adventure. Rocky, rustic, and natural, the beach is nestled between the North Atlantic and the mountains, lakes, and rugged coastline of Maine's Acadia National Park.

<p>The Daytona 500 is one of the most famous names in the world of automotive speed, but the "Original American Beach," as Daytona Beach bills itself, is surprisingly relaxing, carpeted with white sand that brushes against warm, bright blue water. The boardwalk offers plenty of entertainment for kids and adults, while some families might prefer to relax on the beach or hit the open water with a boat rental. Those looking for an upscale destination and a bit of privacy might opt for the Daytona Beach Resort or The Shores Resort and Spa, but more affordable oceanfront hotel options and rental properties can be found as well. And if you're having trouble finding enough variety to keep the family entertained, Disney is just a short drive away, and Tampa just a little further.</p><p><a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/disney-on-a-budget-2017-15101/">26 Ways to Do Disney on a Budget</a></p>

Daytona Beach, Florida

The Daytona 500 is one of the most famous names in the world of automotive speed, but the "Original American Beach," as Daytona Beach bills itself, is surprisingly relaxing, carpeted with white sand that brushes against warm, bright blue water. The boardwalk offers plenty of entertainment for kids and adults, while some families might prefer to relax on the beach or hit the open water with a boat rental. Those looking for an upscale destination and a bit of privacy might opt for the Daytona Beach Resort or The Shores Resort and Spa, but more affordable oceanfront hotel options and rental properties can be found as well. And if you're having trouble finding enough variety to keep the family entertained, Disney is just a short drive away, and Tampa just a little further.

Related: 26 Ways to Do Disney on a Budget

<p>It had to be on the list: <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/cheap-free-things-to-do-in-miami/">Miami Beach</a>, haven for the rich and beautiful. Beyond imported sports cars and well-tanned eye candy, however, you'll find the beach is about as close as you'll get to the Caribbean without leaving the states, and surrounded by art deco architecture and tempting nightclubs. If you're looking for a more remote and peaceful experience, consider driving or renting a boat to head down to Key Largo or even Key West.</p><p><b>Related:</b> <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/summer-vacation-spots-in-the-u-s-12926/">Where to Go for a Budget-Friendly Summer Vacation in All 50 States</a></p>

Miami Beach, Florida

It had to be on the list: Miami Beach , haven for the rich and beautiful. Beyond imported sports cars and well-tanned eye candy, however, you'll find the beach is about as close as you'll get to the Caribbean without leaving the states, and surrounded by art deco architecture and tempting nightclubs. If you're looking for a more remote and peaceful experience, consider driving or renting a boat to head down to Key Largo or even Key West.

Related: Where to Go for a Budget-Friendly Summer Vacation in All 50 States

<p>This Hampton beach is secluded, clean, and fun — lots of fun. The relaxing destination features miles of mostly empty dunes and the culture of Flying Point has allowed scantily clad beachgoers of both genders to roam, stay all night, and even light bonfires over the years. It's easy to block out the rest of the world within just a few short hours after arriving. </p>

Flying Point Beach | Southampton, New York

This Hampton beach is secluded, clean, and fun — lots of fun. The relaxing destination features miles of mostly empty dunes and the culture of Flying Point has allowed scantily clad beachgoers of both genders to roam, stay all night, and even light bonfires over the years. It's easy to block out the rest of the world within just a few short hours after arriving.

<p>From the bustling, boardwalk-lined beaches on the north end of the island to the secluded stretches of sand near a wildlife reserve on the south, Ocean City's beaches are clean, family-friendly, and perfect for a day trip to the Jersey shore. On clear days, you can see Atlantic City, or at least what's left of it. </p>

Ocean City, New Jersey

From the bustling, boardwalk-lined beaches on the north end of the island to the secluded stretches of sand near a wildlife reserve on the south, Ocean City's beaches are clean, family-friendly, and perfect for a day trip to the Jersey shore. On clear days, you can see Atlantic City, or at least what's left of it.

<p>Chincoteague Island lures visitors and Virginians alike as an alternative to its better-known, more crowded cousin, Virginia Beach — and better for its lack of high-rises, tourist bustle, boardwalks, and traffic. You won't want to miss the wild ponies of the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which are sure to amaze the kids and adults alike. And while it may be a quieter destination than Virginia Beach, there are still plenty of activities for a family vacation, including boat rentals, water sports, and beautiful hikes. Depending how long your visit to Virginia will be, you'll also find a range of well-priced hotel accommodations, bed and breakfasts, long-term rentals, and campsites. </p>

Chincoteague Island, Virginia

Chincoteague Island lures visitors and Virginians alike as an alternative to its better-known, more crowded cousin, Virginia Beach — and better for its lack of high-rises, tourist bustle, boardwalks, and traffic. You won't want to miss the wild ponies of the Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, which are sure to amaze the kids and adults alike. And while it may be a quieter destination than Virginia Beach, there are still plenty of activities for a family vacation, including boat rentals, water sports, and beautiful hikes. Depending how long your visit to Virginia will be, you'll also find a range of well-priced hotel accommodations, bed and breakfasts, long-term rentals, and campsites.

<p>Emerald Isle barred hotels along its coast and stayed pristine. Instead of lodging, this hideaway provides plenty of picnic areas, pavilions, and recreation spots right off the sand. It's also one of few hot spots that still allows beach driving during the busy season.</p><p><a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/east-coast-beach-airbnbs/">34 Amazing East Coast Beach Houses to Rent</a></p>

Emerald Isle, North Carolina

Emerald Isle barred hotels along its coast and stayed pristine. Instead of lodging, this hideaway provides plenty of picnic areas, pavilions, and recreation spots right off the sand. It's also one of few hot spots that still allows beach driving during the busy season.

Related: 34 Amazing East Coast Beach Houses to Rent

<p>Savannah is the Hostess City of the South, and its signature beach is Tybee Island — so well known for its cuisine that celebrity chef Paula Deen has a beach house there. Its nearby salt marshes teem with birds and other wildlife unique to the area.</p>

Tybee Island, Georgia

Savannah is the Hostess City of the South, and its signature beach is Tybee Island — so well known for its cuisine that celebrity chef Paula Deen has a beach house there. Tybee Island's nearby salt marshes teem with birds and other coastal wildlife unique to the area. Activities for families include the Tybee Island Lighthouse Museum, the Fort Pulaski National Monument, and the Tybee Island Marine Science Center. Families looking for another beautiful vacation spot may consider heading further south to Jekyll Island.

<p>The coastline is void of hotels and other human clutter, and reaching the beach requires walking a quarter-mile footbridge. The reward is pristine white sand, perfect for long walks and all the shells a collector can carry. </p>

Bowman's Beach | Sanibel, Florida

The coastline is void of hotels and other human clutter, and reaching the beach requires walking a quarter-mile footbridge. The reward is pristine white sand, perfect for long walks and all the shells a collector can carry.

<p>Folly Beach gives Southern California a run for its sun. The average temperatures are 85 degrees in summer, 65 in fall, 75 in spring, and 55 in winter. Many online reviewers also prefer Folly to the more widely known Hilton Head Island farther down the coast, thanks to a more laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, its proximity to Charleston, and reasonably priced hotel options and oceanfront rental properties. The beaches are expansive, the sunsets painted, and landmarks include a local lighthouse and a 1,000-foot pier.</p><p><a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/55-surprising-facts-about-americas-beaches/">55 Surprising Facts About America’s Beaches</a></p>

Folly Beach, South Carolina

Folly Beach gives Southern California a run for its sun. The average temperatures are 85 degrees in summer, 65 in fall, 75 in spring, and 55 in winter. Many online reviewers also prefer Folly to the more widely known Hilton Head Island farther down the coast, thanks to a more laid-back, family-friendly atmosphere, its proximity to Charleston, and reasonably priced hotel options and oceanfront rental properties. The beaches are expansive, the sunsets painted, and landmarks include a local lighthouse and a 1,000-foot pier.

Related: 55 Surprising Facts About America’s Beaches

<p>Jones Beach is less than 20 miles from New York City — but a million miles away. Part of a state park by the same name, Jones Beach boasts 6.5 miles of white beaches made of raised barrier islands and one-half mile of bay beach, the brainchild of legendary New York builder and planner Robert Moses. You'll also find great surf fishing at the west end the park, as well as a boat basin, and undeveloped areas perfect for families looking to spot migratory birds and native plants. </p><p><a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/best-bird-watching-destinations/">Bird Watchers Flock to These 15 Prime Spots Across America</a></p>

Jones Beach | New York

Jones Beach is less than 20 miles from New York City — but a million miles away. Part of a state park by the same name, Jones Beach boasts 6.5 miles of white beaches made of raised barrier islands and one-half mile of bay beach, the brainchild of legendary New York builder and planner Robert Moses. You'll also find great surf fishing at the west end the park, as well as a boat basin, and undeveloped areas perfect for families looking to spot migratory birds and native plants.

Related: Bird Watchers Flock to These 15 Prime Spots Across America

<p>Nags Head keeps its beaches clean and full through a dual program of sand relocation and public education on beach conservation called "leave only your footprints in the sand." The beach, a tourist hotspot, keeps it fun by issuing permits for pit fires on the beach.</p>

Nags Head, North Carolina

Nags Head keeps its beaches clean and full through a dual program of sand relocation and public education on beach conservation called "leave only your footprints in the sand." The beach, a tourist hotspot, keeps it fun by issuing permits for pit fires on the beach.

<p>Fire Island has been a haven for New Yorkers for generations, attracting an easygoing and unpretentious crowd of local surfers and tourists thanks not just to the island's pristine beaches, but campings spots, hiking trails, the Sunken Forest, and famous Fire Island Lighthouse. </p><div class="rich-text"><p>This article was originally published on <a href="https://blog.cheapism.com/best-east-coast-beaches-17123/">Cheapism</a></p></div>

Fire Island | New York

Fire Island has been a haven for New Yorkers for generations, attracting an easygoing and unpretentious crowd of local surfers and tourists thanks not just to the island's pristine beaches, but campings spots, hiking trails, the Sunken Forest, and famous Fire Island Lighthouse.

This article was originally published on Cheapism

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The latest on the massive solar storm

By Angela Fritz, Elise Hammond and Chris Lau, CNN

Incredible lighthouse picture from Maine

From CNN's Chris Lau

A long-exposure photo shows the aurora borealis over Portland, Maine, on May 10.

Among a flurry of surreal images capturing the dazzling auroras is one taken by Benjamin Williamson of a lighthouse in Portland, Maine.

"It's one of the most incredible things I've ever seen, the awe and wonder," Williamson told CNN.

He said he used a long-exposure technique to snap the shot, but did not edit it.

Watch the full interview with Williamson here .

Things could be about to ramp up

If you still haven't seen the aurora, hold on for another 30 minutes to an hour, according to CNN meteorologist Chad Myers.

The next wave of coronal mass ejections, or CMEs, which cause the aurora, is about to arrive, he said.

"Just wait a minute because things are going to start to ramp up here," he said, adding that the increase could arrive "anytime now." "When it comes, get outside, get ready, put your coat on."

For those who are too busy to witness the phenomenon tonight, Myers said the aurora is expected to last three nights.

Why does the aurora last for a weekend?

By CNN's Chris Lau

The northern lights can be seen from Eaton Rapids, Michigan, on May 10.

Generally, it takes just eight minutes for light to travel 93 million miles to the Earth from the sun, but astrophysicist Janna Levin said the energized particles causing the current wave of aurora travel a lot slower, causing the phenomenon to last for the weekend.

"Some of these mass ejections are trillions of kilograms," she said. "They're slower. So they're taking longer, but still hours, maybe tens of hours."

Here's how the solar storm looks in the South and on the East Coast

The aurora was visible across the East Coast and in the South Friday.

Here's how it looked in Chester, South Carolina.

Down in Florida, waves of color swam through the sky.

Up north in New Jersey, a purple-ish haze could be seen in the sky.

Will solar storms get more intense and risky in the future?

The answer is probably not in the short term, according to astrophysicist Hakeem Oluseyi.

He said scientists study what is constantly happening on the surface of the sun and have found a pattern.

“Geological data shows us that in the past the sun was way more active than it is today. It has cycles where it goes very quiet ... and you have events that show that the solar activity was much, much greater,” he told CNN. “So there's no evidence that we're going to see those big maxima this cycle."

But the astrophysicist also spoke of a caveat - the limitations of modern science.

“Even though it's predictable in the short term, we still don't quite understand what creates the magnetic fields in the sun,” he said, adding: “That's why NASA has so many satellites looking at the sun.”

In Pictures: Auroras light the sky during rare solar storm

From CNN Digital's Photo Team

The northern lights glow in the night sky in Brandenburg, Germany, on May 10.

A series of solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun are creating dazzling auroras across the globe .

The rare solar storm may also disrupt communications. The last time a solar storm of this magnitude reached Earth was in October 2003, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Space Weather Prediction Center.

See more photos of the aurora from tonight.

Behind dazzling aurora could lie “real danger,” Bill Nye the Science Guy says

Bill Nye the Science Guy speaks to CNN on Friday, May 10.

The massive solar storm could present “a real danger,” especially with the modern world relying so much on electricity, according to Bill Nye the Science Guy , a science educator and engineer.

Scientists are warning an increase in solar flares and coronal mass ejections from the sun have the potential to disrupt communication on Earth into the weekend. Solar flares can affect communications and GPS almost immediately because they disrupt Earth’s ionosphere, or part of the upper atmosphere. Energetic particles released by the sun can also disrupt electronics on spacecraft and affect astronauts without proper protection within 20 minutes to several hours.

In comparison to tonight's event, Nye drew comparisons with another incident in 1859, known as the Carrington Event, when telegraph communications were severely affected.

“The other thing, everybody, that is a real danger to our technological society, different from 1859, is how much we depend on electricity and our electronics and so on,” Nye said. "None of us really in the developed world could go very long without electricity."

He noted that there are systems in place to minimize the impact, but “stuff might go wrong,” stressing that not all transformers are equipped to withstand such a solar event.

“It depends on the strength of the event and it depends on how much of our infrastructures are prepared for this the sort of thing,” he said.

Bill Nye breaks down significance of the solar storm | CNN

This post has been updated with more details on solar flares' impact on electronics.

Here's where clouds will block the view of the northern lights in the US

From CNN's Angela Fritz

An infrared satellite image taken around 10:30 p.m. ET.

After an incredibly stormy week, most of the Lower 48 has clear skies to see the northern lights. But there are some areas where clouds and rainy weather are spoiling the view.

A deck of clouds is blocking the sky in the Northeast, from parts of Virginia into Maine, as an area of low pressure spins off the East Coast.

In the Midwest, the aurora will be hard to see through thick clouds in parts of Wisconsin, Michigan — including the Upper Peninsula — and Illinois.

A stripe of clouds is tracking across Texas, including Dallas-Forth Worth, and into Louisiana.

And in the Southwest, patchy clouds across the the Four Corners region could make the northern lights difficult to spot.

Aurora seen at least as far south as Georgia

Barely visible to the naked eye, the aurora can be seen in Atlanta in the 10 p.m. ET hour.

It is easier to see through photographs using a long exposure. The photos below, taken by CNN's Eric Zerkel and Emily Smith, used 3- and 10-second exposures.

Aurora seen in Atlanta around 10:15 p.m. ET.

Please enable JavaScript for a better experience.

When could you see the northern lights? Aurora forecast for over a dozen states this weekend

Read the latest on the northern lights this weekend: Saturday's forecast says parts of U.S. could see auroras .

A series of strong solar flares that the sun has been emitting since Wednesday morning could cause the northern lights to become visible this weekend to a wide swath of the United States.

The coronal mass ejections (CMEs) hurtling toward Earth prompted the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to issue a rare Severe (G4) Geomagnetic Storm Watch on Thursday for the first time in 19 years. The geomagnetic storms that the CMEs would produce pose a limited threat to our communications, but they can also trigger the aurora borealis, better known as the northern lights.

And because the sun is at the height of its 11-year-cycle, the auroras have a very good chance of being seen by more Americans than usual .

Here's what to know about the northern lights, and when and where you may catch a glimpse of them this weekend.

Good news on northern lights: Experts predict years of awesome aurora viewing

What are the northern lights?

The auroras are a natural light display in Earth's sky that are famously best seen in high-latitude regions.

The northern lights materialize when energized particles from the sun reach Earth's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph, according to Space.com . Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles through a process that produces a stunning display of rays, spirals and flickers that has fascinated humans for millennia.

Geomagnetic storm: Solar storm is powerful enough to disrupt communications: Why NOAA says not to worry

When might the northern lights be most visible?

This week's solar activity brings with it the increased possibility of seeing the aurora across the U.S.

Though the timing is uncertain and the northern lights can be a particularly fickle forecast , officials at NOAA said the coronal mass ejections could reach Earth as early as Friday evening into Saturday, Shawn Dahl, a space weather forecaster at SWPC, told reporters Friday morning during a news briefing.

Experts from NOAA said auroras could be visible into Sunday.

The best aurora is usually within an hour or two of midnight (between 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. local time). These hours expand towards evening and morning as the level of geomagnetic activity increases, according to NOAA.

Where might the northern lights be best seen in the US?

The northern half of the U.S. is forecasted to be in the view path where the auroras may be most visible.

The best chances appear to be in northern Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin and the majority of North Dakota, according to SWPC's experimental Aurora viewline . The visibility for viewing will also depend on local weather conditions and city lights.

Experts at NOAA said the northern lights may even be visible as far south as Alabama and Northern California. If all else fails, experts even recommend taking a photo of the night sky with your cell phone – you never known what you may capture.

"Things that the human eye can't see, your phone can, so it'll be interesting to see just how far south we're getting aurora images this time," said Brent Gordon, Chief of Space Weather Services Branch for SWPC, on the Friday call with reporters.

The National Weather Service on Friday shared an aurora forecast for Friday night and early Saturday morning, showing more than a dozen states with at least a chance to see the lights.

How does the solar maximum influence the northern lights?

Explosive bursts of radiation known as solar flares and coronal mass ejections (eruptions of solar material) drive the geometric storms, releasing solar particles and electromagnetic radiation toward our planet.

As the frequency of coronal mass ejections increases at the height of its 11-year cycle, which NASA said is expected to be in 2025 , electromagnetic activity on the sun peaks. What that so-called "solar maximum" means for us is that the risk increases for disruption to satellite signals, radio communications, internet and electrical power grids.

'God's Hand' revealed in cosmos: Telescope images reveal 'cloudy, ominous structure' known as 'God's Hand' in Milky Way

Last December , a powerful burst of energy created the largest solar flare that NASA had detected since 2017.

The last G4 level solar storm hit Earth in March , one of only three storms of that severity observed since 2019, according to NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center .

Just like in March, the upcoming solar storm will have particles flowing from the sun that get caught up in Earth's magnetic field, causing colorful auroras to form as they interact with molecules of atmospheric gases. The resulting glowing green and reddish colors of the aurora may be quite a sight to see.

Contributing: Doyle Rice, USA TODAY

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

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9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine

From old-school spots to foodie favorites, there's a 'hole' lot to try.

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Bread and bagels at The Works Cafe in downtown Portland. Photo by Aimsel Ponti

From New York-style boiled bagels to Montreal-inspired wood-fired ones, there’s lots of great bagels in southern Maine and several shops have the accolades to back that up.

In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.

Two years before that, Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list of best bagels in the U.S.

Whether you like yours toasted with cream cheese or as the bread for your breakfast sandwich, you can find plenty of styles and flavors from Biddeford to Brunswick.

BEACH BAGELS

The offerings at Beach Bagels include a French toast and marble bagel, and the cream cheese menu comprises spreads like strawberry, olive and honey walnut. Along with breakfast sandwiches, Beach Bagels has hearty breakfast options like omelets and pancakes. Best of all, you’re steps away from a beach stroll. Just don’t let the seagulls steal your bagel. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily WHERE: 34 Old Orchard St., Old Orchard Beach. beachbagels.yolasite.com ______________

Dutchman’s opened in 2022 as a pop-up housed at Nomad pizza in Brunswick’s Fort Andross building. It’s since become a permanent fixture there and uses the pizzeria’s wood-fired ovens to bake its bagels. The hand-shaped, honey-boiled bagels come in plain, roasted garlic, poppy and a bagel-of-the-day flavor.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday to Sunday WHERE: Fort Andross, 14 Maine St., Brunswick. dutchmans.me ______________

FORAGE MARKET

Making bagels at Forage Market involves a two-day aging process. The bagels are naturally leavened with wild yeast starter and baked next to a hardwood fire. There are usually five flavors available, including sesame and garlic. Breakfast sandwiches (including vegan options) are available. Forage also has a location in Lewiston. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 123 Washington Ave., Portland. foragemarket.com _____________

MISTER BAGEL

There are 10 or so Mister Bagel locations in Maine, including South Portland and Falmouth. It all began with the Portland location, which was the first bagel shop to open in Maine. The late Rick Hartglass started Mister Bagel in 1977, and it is still a family business. Music fans will appreciate the breakfast sandwich menu, which includes The David Bowie (bacon, egg and American cheese), the Jimmy Buffett (egg with roast beef and cheddar) and The Lady Gaga (avocado, salt and pepper, with or without egg).

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to noon Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to noon Saturday and Sunday WHERE: 599 Forest Ave., Portland. misterbagelforestave.com ______________

At Rose Foods, the menu varies depending on the day, but there are usually six to eight flavors available. For example, should you pop in on a Friday, you’ll find a poppy and onion bialy (a cousin of the bagel that is not boiled). Rose Foods also makes a number of bagel sandwiches, including the Classic Nova with Nova lox and the Classic Whitefish. Advertisement

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. daily WHERE: 428 Forest Ave., Portland. rosefoods.me

______________

ROVER BAGEL

At Rover Bagel, you’ll find wood-fired plain, poppy, sea salt, sesame and everything bagels available most of the time, and the spread game here is strong with cream cheese options like lemon-thyme-honey cream and chili-garlic.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 10 West Point Lane Suite 10-204, Biddeford (Pepperell Mill). roverbagel.com

______________ Advertisement

SCRATCH BAKING CO.

You haven’t lived until you’ve experienced the line of devoted fans waiting for Scratch Baking Co. to open, especially on weekend mornings. Along with the popular Maine sea salt, plain and other everyday flavors, Scratch has a daily special bagel. There’s honeyed rosemary on Wednesday and jalapeno cheddar on Thursday. Scratch is also famous, at least to locals, for its P-Cheese spread. It’s a pimento cheese recipe made with cheddar, mayo, roasted red peppers and seasoning and was passed down to co-owner and head baker Allison Reid by her grandmother, Mern.

WHEN: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday to Saturday, 7 a.m. to noon Sunday WHERE: 416 Preble St., South Portland. scratchbakingco.com ___________

THE MAINE BAGEL

The Maine Bagel is a drive-thru with several breakfast and other kinds of sandwiches available. With a bagel list that features egg and bialy among the standards, the family-owned spot is the perfect place to stop on your way to Pine Point Beach. The Maine Bagel really shines with a dozen kinds of cream cheese spreads, including raisin-walnut, lox, strawberry, cranberry-nut and bacon-chive.

WHEN: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. WHERE: 117 Route 1, Scarborough. themainebagel.com Advertisement

THE WORKS CAFE

The Works Cafe is an institution on the edge of the Portland’s Old Port. It opened in 1990 as Bagel Works before it changed its name in 2002. The original shop in this regional chain opened in Manchester, Vermont, in 1988, and there are 11 locations around New England, though just the one in Maine. Gone are the ’90s-era banana-walnut bagels and cold pizza cream cheese, but The Works Cafe is still a reliable place to grab a salt, multigrain or cinnamon raisin bagel, among others. The menu also has bowls, sandwiches and smoothies.

WHEN: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily WHERE: 15 Temple St., Portland. workscafe.com

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30 Best Places to Visit on the East Coast: Top Vacation Spots
50+ BEST Places to Visit in the East Coast for Your Bucket List
12 Beautiful Places To Visit On The East Coast, USA
12 Beautiful Places To Visit On The East Coast, USA
40+ Best East Coast Vacation Spots in the USA + Hidden Gems!
17 Best East Coast Family Vacations 2020

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27 Best East Coast Vacation Spots
Bethany Beach. #27 in Best East Coast Vacation Spots. Touted as one of the East Coast's best beaches, this Delaware town's calm waters and quaint boardwalk lend an air of simplicity perfect for a ...
32 Best Places To Visit On The East Coast, USA
1. New York (from USD 99.0) Show all photos. A New York City experience is hard to compile in just a paragraph or two. Being the most populated city in the United States and one of the top destinations on the East Coast, this megacity has people from every country, culture, and ethnicity.
20 Best Places to Visit on the East Coast of the USA
To make the most of your trip, though, it's important to time it right. April is one of the best months to visit, as the weather is ideal for exploring and the crowds have thinned (except over Easter). 4. Acadia National Park, Maine. The Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse in Acadia National Park, Maine.
15 Best Places to Visit on the East Coast
15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit on the West Coast — From Charming Small Towns to National Parks The Best Cross-country U.S. Road Trip Itinerary: Northern Route 10 Charming Small Towns to Visit ...
15 Best Places to Visit on the East Coast
1. Portland, Maine. When exploring places to visit on the East Coast, start in the north. New England's Portland is the jewel of Casco Bay. It's state park galore in this East Coast region, with multiple areas to go sightseeing and hiking. For water lovers, popular activities include marine tours and boat rides.
33 Best Places to Visit on the East Coast (USA)
15. Boston, Massachusetts - One of the best places to visit on the East Coast. From historic cobbled streets to a beautiful waterfront area, Boston, Massachusetts is a city you should add to your east coast bucket list. Beacon Hill is the US-equivalent of Europe's old towns. Boston is the hub of New England.
15+ Best Vacation Destinations on the East Coast
Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts. Best Places to Stay. Martha's Vineyard has been a famous summer playground for the wealthy for decades. Today this island, accessed by ferry from Cape Cod, offers something for visitors of all types with beautiful beaches, a picturesque lighthouse, brightly painted gingerbread cottages, and charming hotels.
40+ Best East Coast Vacation Spots in the USA + Hidden Gems!
21. Miami, Florida. Miami, Florida — one of the best summer vacation spots on East Coast. ☀️ Why vacation here: With 20 miles of dreamy beaches, Miami is hands down one of the best places to visit on the East Coast in the summer.
32 Best Things to Do on the East Coast of the US + Top Tips!
30. Explore White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire. The breathtaking White Mountains National Forest in New Hampshire is filled with recreational adventures. Exploring the granite mountains and lush forests of this 7,000-acre park is one of the top things to do on the East Coast.
24 Best East Coast Vacation Spots
Touch a shark, visit the Sea Turtle Hospital, or watch an exciting show. 16. Washington, D.C. United States Capitol building, Washington, D.C. The nation's capital is one of the best places to visit for an East Coast vacation, especially when the famous cherry blossoms are in full bloom (between March and April).
30 East Coast Historical Sites You Need to Visit
Plimoth Plantation. Of all the places to visit on the east coast, Massachusets has the most historical vacation destinations! Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, MA, is one of the most significant historic sites to visit on the East Coast of the United States. About 40 miles south of Boston, the town of Plymouth is the site of the famous Plymouth ...
31 Best East Coast Vacation Spots in the US
Best East Coast Vacation Spots in the US. 1. Bar Harbor, Maine. Bar Harbor, Maine, is our list's first and easternmost spot. It's the perfect place to start. Many people might suggest that Bar Harbor and the surrounding areas are the best of Maine, and they may be right. This area, indeed, has a little bit of everything.
The Best East Coast Road Trips to Take This Year—And Beyond
Small but mighty: New Haven to Newport. Hit the highlights of two of America's smallest states, Connecticut (#3) and Rhode Island (#1) with the 100-mile drive along US-1 from New Haven ...
13 Epic East Coast Cities for Weekend Getaways
READ NEXT. 15 Cool Cities Perfect for Weekend Getaways in the USA. Central Park, Fifth Avenue, Grand Central, Times Square, the New York Public Library, a Broadway show or two, a visit to Top of the Rock or the Empire State Building, the Brooklyn Bridge-on a weekend, you can see all of that and more.
28 Best Beaches on the East Coast
Harvey's Beach, Connecticut. iStock/Getty Images. Harvey's Beach in Old Saybrook is the stuff of small-town dreams. The sandy beach, lined with gorgeous dunes, is a place where visitors can swim ...
27 Best Places to Visit on the East Coast, USA
34. Atlantic City is the east coast's version of Las Vegas. While it doesn't quite have the glitz and glam or the huge and raucous casinos of the former, Atlantic City has plenty to offer on its own. The Atlantic City Boardwalk is a famous destination for tourists, as well as the Steel Pier Amusement Park.
27 Best Weekend Getaways on the East Coast of the USA (+ Where to Stay!)
If you are planning a romantic East Coast weekend getaway in a quintessential New England bed and breakfast, check out the highly rated Woodstocker B&B! Text and photo by Amy from New England with Love. 14. St. Augustine, Florida. St. Augustine, located near Jacksonville, Florida, is one of the best places to visit on the East Coast. It is the ...
10 Best Places to Go on an East Coast Road Trip
Unlike the West Coast, where only three states border the Pacific, a total of 14 states lie along the Atlantic shores. Road trips on the East Coast offer plenty of variety, taking in mountains ...
25 Bucket List Places to See on the East Coast of the USA
1. Dry Tortugas National Park, Flordia: This national park off the coast of Florida is comprised of islands and features an abundance of marine and bird life! 2. Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts : This little gem of an island is in the south of Massachusetts and has the cutest colonial style. 3.
13 Best Hidden Gem Vacation Spots on the East Coast
11. Folly Beach, South Carolina. Folly Beach is one of the best hidden gem vacation spots on the East Coast. Having lived nearby in Charleston for many years, Folly Beach holds a special place in my heart. This small but lively beach town offers the perfect getaway if you're looking to unwind.
19 Historic Sites on the East Coast That You Should Visit
A must-visit historic site that resides on the East Coast of the USA is The Battery, located in Charleston, South Carolina. In fact, it is actually one of Charleston's most visited spots and one of the best places for a scenic walk! The battery is a sea wall that was built to protect the city from intruders coming by sea back in the 1750s. It ...
19 Best Places to Visit in the Fall East Coast
3. New Hampshire's Lakes Region. Get a birds' eye view of fall foliage on a hike near Holderness in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. Photo credit: Kara Williams. "The White Mountains of New Hampshire are probably the Granite State's most famous spot for viewing fall foliage — for good reason.
The 20 Best Beaches the East Coast Offers
When visiting Ocean City Beach, be sure to head to the 3-mile boardwalk, with all its shops, rides, carousel, and places to eat, there's plenty of things to do for the whole family.
Aurora lights up the sky in geomagnetic storm
A stunning aurora, caused by a severe geomagnetic storm, is painting the sky shades of pink, purple and green as it spreads into locations it rarely reaches Friday night.
When might you see aurora borealis? Northern lights forecast for US
The auroras are a natural light display in Earth's sky that are famously best seen in high-latitude regions. The northern lights materialize when energized particles from the sun reach Earth's ...
9 places to nosh on bagels in southern Maine
In 2023, Bon Appetit named bagels from Rose Foods and Rover Bagel among the best in the country.. Two years before that, Food & Wine Magazine put Rover, Forage and Scratch Baking Co. on its list ...