Are you looking for the best USA East Coast road trip itinerary? This is the ultimate guide that takes you through charming small towns, picturesque wonderlands, historical sights, and so much more.
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An East Coast road trip in the USA is something everyone must do at some point. The East Coast is stunning and transforms into beautiful landscapes as the seasons change. That is what makes the East Coast especially popular for a road trip year-round. There are many adventures to explore and something for everyone, whether it’s a cozy weekend in a cabin or a hiking adventure, seeing many historical sights, relaxing on stunning beaches, and so much more.
Explore some must-visit stops along the East Coast including Boston in Massachusetts, Husdon Valley in New York, Philadelphia in Pennsylvania, Amish Country in Pennsylvania, Washington D.C., Asheville in North Carolina, Savannah in Georgia, Miami in Florida, and more.
Also, learn about the best time for an East Coast USA road trip, the ultimate East Coast road trip packing list, hidden gems along the East Coast USA road trip, scenic spots you need to see, where to stay, and so much more.
This post is all about the best road trip USA East Coast.
The East Coast of the USA is stunning and has so many unique and diverse cities. It has many cities along the ocean that are one-of-a-kind. The East Coast also has some of the best scenic views for a road trip and many historical sites to visit along the way. Take in the natural attractions and explore luxurious coastal retreats, enjoy the hustle and bustle of lively cities, and so much more.
The best time for an East Coast road trip varies depending on what you are looking for. The northern part of the East Coast of the USA gets all four seasons where as the southern states on the East Coast don’t really have a winter and the temperatures are a lot milder in these states.
An ideal time to road trip the East Coast would be spring or fall. The summer is very touristy all over and sometimes the weather gets very hot, especially in the south. Prices also tend to be more expensive during the summer months. The fall and spring seasons are ideal because the weather is still fairly mild and not as many tourists in popular destinations and cheaper prices as well. In the fall the trees begin to change color and that is truly breathtaking. Winter may affect driving conditions in the northern states, especially if it calls for snow and slippery roads. Still amazing to see the East Coast in the winter just need to be cautious.
To see more on fall East Coast escapes check out the blog post “13 Of The Best Fall Getaways East Coast You’ll Love“.
There are many different road trip routes you can take along the East Coast of the USA. The three main ones include:
This road trip USA East Cost itinerary will take you from the north and take you all the way down to the south while stopping in each significant city.
Start your ultimate road trip USA East Coast Itinerary by heading to Acadia National Park in Maine. This is one of the best places for nature lovers and it is also known as the “Crown Jewel of the “North Atlantic Coast“. There are so many fun activities to do here including a visit to Cadillac Mountain where you can see some of the best panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and all the surrounding islands. Enjoy a scenic route along Park Loop Road. Hike around Jordan Pond and visit the Thunder Hole where you can see waves crashing into rocks creating loud thunderlike sounds, a unique nature experience. Walk along the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and enjoy a stunning sunset.
Where To Stay In Acadia National Park – Great places to stay in Acadia National Park are Acadia Hotel – Downtown and The Pathmaker Hotel. Both hotels have breakfast included and are close to the park, and they both have great affordable accommodation options.
After exploring Acadia National Park make your way to Portland, Maine. Explore the Old Port District, walk along the cobblestone streets, shop at the unique boutiques, visit amazing galleries, and take a look at the old historic buildings. Visit the Portland Head Light which is the iconic lighthouse at Fort Williams Park and it offers beautiful views of Casco Bay. Enjoy a ride on the Casco Bay Ferry or walk along the island trails.
Where To Stay In Portland – Great places to stay in Portland Maine include the Hampton Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront, Residence Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront, and The Westin Portland Harborview. All of these are spectacular hotels and they are either waterfront or super close to the water.
After Portland head to Cape Cod which is located in Massachusetts. Cape Cod has some of the best coastal scenery and many come here to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Also while here be sure to explore the Cape Cod National Seashore. Check out the charming little towns like Provincetown and Chatham. Also, Cape Cod is known for having some of the best fresh seafood of all time.
Where To Stay In Cape Cod – In Cape Cod stay at the Chatham Bars Inn which is a stunning place to stay and has luxurious accommodations, and some of the best ocean views. Also has a spa and a private beach area for guests.
A popular stop on the East Coast of the USA is Salem, Massachusetts. Salem is known for its rich history, beautiful fall foliage, and spooky scary charm. Salem is also known for the famous witch trials of 1692. During the fall especially in October, the town of Salem transforms into a perfect hub for Halloween festivities. Other great things to see in Salem are the Salem Witch Museum, The House of the Seven Gables, Salem Haunted Happenings, Peabody Essex Museum, Historical Walking Tours, Salem Maritime National Historic Site, Bewitched Statue, and more.
Where To Stay In Salem – Some great places to stay in Salem are The Merchant, which is a boutique hotel with luxury accommodations, or the Salem Waterfront Hotel & Suites which is a wonderful hotel with access to Pickering Wharf.
After Salem head to Boston. Boston is the capital of Massachusetts and it is full of historic charm, has tree-lined streets that burst into vibrant colors in the fall, and many cultural events. Boston is a coastal city and is located on the water and is perfect to visit in all seasons. Top attractions and activities to enjoy in Boston include the Freedom Trail, the Boston Public Garden, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, the Museum of Fine Arts, the New England Aquarium, the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, Boston Common, Harvard Square, and Harvard University, and so much more.
Where To Stay In Boston – Stay at The Lenox Hotel while in Boston. This hotel has super luxurious accommodations and is located close to many popular attractions. You could also stay at the Omni Boston Hotel at Seaport which has stunning views of the beautiful harbor and is within walking distance to the waterfront. Another unique hotel is Boston Liberty Hotel which used to be a former jail and is now full of luxury and history.
Next is Newport, Rhode Island. Newport has one of the most picturesque coastlines in the United States. It is known for its stunning ocean views, historic millionaire mansions, and great coastal walkways. Newport is filled with many Historic Mansions that have an important part in US history and others are also homes belonging to famous people like Taylor Swift. There are also many fall festivals held in Newport, making it a great time to visit. Enjoy the Cliff Walk which is the best walk along Newport, visit the Newport Mansions on a guided tour, enjoy a scenic ocean drive, visit the International Tennis Hall of Fame, do some shopping on Thames Street, visit Newport Vineyards, and more.
Where To Stay In Newport – In Newport stay at The Chanler at Cliff Walk which is a luxurious hotel that has amazing ocean views and is located by the Cliff Walk. Also, other great places to stay in Newport are the Castle Hill Inn or Hotel Viking.
Make your way to Hudson Valley is located in New York State just north of New York City. This region is known for its beautiful historic estates, amazing landscapes, and exquisite art scene. The area has lots of natural beauty and many stunning luxury accommodations for you to enjoy.
Hudson Valley is famous for many historic Estates. Check out the Vanderbilt Mansion, Kykuit which is the Rockefeller Estate, and the Lyndhurst Mansion. You can get guided tours through all of these Estates and get a glimpse of the area’s rich history. The art and culture scene here is pretty grand and you can enjoy the Contemporary Art Museum, Storm King Art Centre which is an outdoor sculpture museum, or the Hudson River Museum.
Where To Stay In Hudson Valley – Some great places to stay in Hudson Valley are Tru By Hilton Middletown and Hyatt Place Poughkeepsie – Hudson Valley.
After Hudson Valley head to the wonderful New York City. New York City has a one-of-a-kind cityscape and amazing beauty from all its boroughs to the architecture and to beautiful Central Park. Central Park is the hub of New York as it covers most of Manhattan and is close to many famous things. There are many diverse things to do in New York starting with a magical walk in Central Park and enjoying the scenery. Seeing the Empire State Building, visiting Rockefeller Centre, seeing Brooklyn and the Brooklyn Bridge, riding the Staten Island Ferry and seeing the Statue of Liberty, visiting the High Line, enjoying some Broadway Shows, visiting the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, luxury shopping, and more.
For a more in-depth review of New York check out the posts “THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO NEW YORK: FIRST TIMERS EDITION” and “FROM BROADWAY TO BRUNCH: THE BEST GIRLS’ TRIP TO NEW YORK CITY YOU’LL LOVE“.
Where To Stay In New York City – The Hilton Garden Inn New York Central Park South-Midtown West is budget-friendly, along with The Manhattan at Times Square. Some mid-range hotels include the DoubleTree by Hilton New York Downtown and the Hilton New York Fashion District. 2 luxury hotels in New York are Thompson Central Park New York, part of Hyatt, and the Warwick New York. New York City is full of many hotels ranging from many budgets but these are the favorite ones.
After New York City head to the birthplace of America, Philadelphia Pennsylvania. Check out Independence National Historical Park where you can see the Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was signed and you can also visit the Liberty Bell which is a symbol of freedom and independence. Next, see the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the famous Rocky Steps. Take a tour through Eastern State Penitentiary where historic inmates were held like Al Capone. Enjoy an afternoon in Spruce Street Harbor Park with views of the Delaware River. While in Philadelphia you have to try a famous Philly Cheesesteak.
Where To Stay In Philadelphia – A great place to stay in Philadelphia is Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center City-Convention Center. Another amazing place to stay is The Logan Philadelphia, Curio Collection by Hilton.
Next, take a trip to Lancaster County which is also known as the Amish Village in Pennsylvania. Go back in time and see the life and traditions of the Amish community in America. You can do a guided Amish Farmhouse Tour to see how the Amish live and their culture and customs. Explore the 12-acre Village Grounds to see shops, schools, animal farms, and more. Truly a unique and interesting experience.
Where To Stay In Amish Country – Some great places to stay in Lancaster County near the Amish Country are Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Lancaster Amish Country , PA, Hershey Farm Resort in Hershey Pennsylvania, and Amish View Inn & Suites.
After exploring Pennsylvania drive to Washington D.C. Washington D.C. is the capital of the United States and is the center of all politics. It is also full of history and charm. There are so many things to see and do in Washington including visiting the Smithsonian Museums. These are world-class museums and a must-see when here. Visit the White House from the north lawn or book a guided tour ahead of time to see inside. Check out the U.S. Capitol Building get a guided tour and learn the history of the government. Visit Georgetown and the Arlington National Cemetery.
Where To Stay In Washington D.C.– Great places to stay in Washington D.C. include The St. Regis Washington, D.C., Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf, and Hilton Garden Inn Washington D.C./U.S. Capitol.
After exploring Washington D.C. drive to Asheville located in North Carolina. Asheville is a great place to enjoy some art and mountain views. It is surrounded by the Blue Ridge Mountains and is a great place to enjoy a spectacular art scene in the downtown area. Also, check out Biltmore Estate, this is a wonderful home with amazing architecture. You can tour the house and the beautiful gardens all around. This is a magnificent piece of property and a famous place to visit.
Where To Stay In Asheville – Asheville has many great places to stay but a favorite is The Omni Grove Park Inn. This one-of-a-kind resort is magical and has many amenities and activities to do there.
Take a drive along the Outer Banks in North Carolina and enjoy the little towns, one-of-a-kind landmarks, stunning beaches, and natural beauty. Enjoy the beaches and go fishing at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Visit the historical Wright Brothers National Memorial. Explore the amazing sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park. Take part in many activities on the Outer Banks like watersports, fishing or boating, hiking, enjoying wildlife, and so much more.
Where To Stay In Outer Banks – Most places in Outer Banks are homes or apartments, inns, or little resorts. Some of the best ones are Outer Banks Beach Club and The Shimmering Seahorse.
After touring the Outer Banks in North Carolina, make your way to Charleston in South Carolina. Charleston is full of southern charm, interesting history, beautiful one-of-a-kind mansions, and a very diverse food scene. Visit the Historic District where you can find Rainbow Row which is a row of buildings all colored in vibrant pastel colors making it a unique sight to see. Enjoy the views of Battery and White Point Garden and views of the historic mansions and the harbor. Visit Fort Sumter National Monument. Explore the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens which are famous in America. Check out the Waterfront Park and King Street where you can do some boutique shopping.
Where To Stay In Charleston – While in Charleston stay at the Comfort Inn Downtown Charleston, DoubleTree by Hilton Charleston Mount Pleasant, and Hampton Inn Charleston-Historic District.
Continue on your road trip USA East Coast itinerary by heading to Savannah, Georgia. Savannah, Georgia is famous for its stunning parks, historic architecture, vibrant culture, and super nice people. Savannah is a perfect place for a cozy fall getaway. Walk through the cobblestone streets and see the historic homes and lush green spaces. Enjoy the perfect mild weather which is great to spend time outdoors and enjoy the many forests Savannah has. Enjoy some great festivals and events too. You could also explore Forsyth Park, the Savannah Historic District, Bonaventure Cemetery, River Street, Savannah Riverboat Cruises, Ghost Tours, Savannah Food Tours the Savannah Film Festival, and more.
Where To Stay In Savannah – Savannah, Georgia has many great places to stay including The Gastonian which is a luxurious bed and breakfast that is set in a huge mansion that is full of history and charm. It had elegant rooms and one-of-a-kind Southern hospitality.
For the final state of this East Coast itinerary, head to Florida, specifically Miami. Miami is known for its beautiful beaches, busy and vibrant nightlife scene, diverse culture, and amazing warm weather year-round. Fall is the perfect time to enjoy some fun outdoor activities with perfect weather. Enjoy the beaches without the crazy crowds. Some of the best activities and attractions in Miami are South Beach, Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, Wynwood Walls, Little Havanna, Miami Design District, Miami Seaquarium, Everglades National Park, the Miami Beach Boardwalk, and more.
Where To Stay In Miami – Stay at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, Gale Miami Hotel & Residences, Fortune House Hotel Suites, Private Oasis at Arya, and DoubleTree by Hilton Grand Hotel Biscayne Bay. These are all stunning hotels with amazing reviews.
The last stop on this ultimate road trip USA East Coast itinerary is Key West, Florida. Key West is known for its warm temperatures, amazing sunsets, vibrant culture, fun outdoor activities, and more. There are many festivals and events happening in Key West like the Fnatasy Fest and the Goombay Festival. Always make sure to enjoy a sunset or two while here. Visit Mallory Square, the Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, Duval Street, Key West Butterfly and Nature Conservatory, Sotuehernmost Point, Dry Tortugas National Park, Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters, enjoy Snorkeling and Diving, and much more.
Where to stay in Key West – A great place to stay in Key West, Florida is The Perry Hotel & Marina Key West. It is a boutique hotel located on the water and has great amenities and beautiful views. Another great place to stay in Key West is The Ibis Bay Resort. This is a luxurious resort that is located near Southernmost Point and has a private beach and lots of pools.
Make sure you check the weather before heading on your road trip. If you are going in the summer then all you will need are summer clothes for all the states. If you are going in the fall or spring bring some light clothing you can layer depending on the daily temperatures. Maybe a light jacket would be a good idea to pack for the northern states. If taking a road trip in the winter pack warmer clothing you can layer, bring boots, a jacket, and cozy items. Also, make sure your car is equipped with snow tires and anything else you may need for winter driving.
Check out the post “The Best Family Road Trip Checklist You Need” for more information on specifics for a road trip. Packing for a family road trip? Take a look at the blog post “The Best Family Road Trip Checklist You Need“. For help on packing essentials see the post “The Ultimate List Of Travel Accessories You Need“.
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