The household highway journey has made a comeback and with it, households are searching for much more highway journey concepts. While many have made the trek from the northeast right down to Florida through the years, now households wish to take time to cease and discover alongside the best way. With a lot to see, we’ve divided this a part of the nation up into 20 totally different East Coast highway journeys, every of which might be carried out in a one-week trip.
Each of those mini East Coast highway journey itineraries will provide you with concepts for brand spanking new methods to discover sections of the East Coast of the united statesA. Check off one after the other or string a number of collectively for an extended trip.
20 East Coast Road Trips
Each of those East Coast highway journey concepts covers a special part of the Eastern states and may take roughly 7 to 10 days to finish as outlined. My aim is to solely require one week of trip time from work since that’s the typical household trip. While these aren’t detailed itineraries, they need to be sufficient to get you began in your planning and I’ve linked to some extra detailed highway journey itineraries and included maps to provide you an outline of the route.
Time to seize your highway journey necessities and hit the highway! Make positive you take a look at my suggestions and keep away from these rookie highway journey errors. You can also wish to obtain a number of audiobooks for the highway and print out these highway journey bingo playing cards. If you don’t discover what you’re searching for, you can too take a New York to Florida highway journey.
Note: This submit could comprise affiliate hyperlinks. If you click on a hyperlink and make a purchase order, I’ll obtain a small fee. All opinions are my very own.
1. New England Coast: Boston to Bar Harbor, ME
The drive from Boston, Massachusetts as much as Bar Harbor, Maine will be carried out in about 4 hours on the freeway, however it’s higher to take the scenic route and discover Vacationland’s scenic coast alongside the best way. One of the very best East Coast highway journeys, this one is filled with lobster rolls, blueberry soda, whoopie pies, lighthouses, rocky coasts, quaint small cities, and Acadia National Park.
Portland: spend 2 nights in Portland exploring the Old Port, perhaps taking a lobster boat tour, climbing on the rocks by Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, visiting the “Desert of Maine,” or spending a day buying on the L.L. Bean outlet up in Freeport. You might additionally go to some native breweries or take a day journey to Maine Wildlife Park in Gray to see some moose.
Where to remain: The Press Hotel, Inn by the Sea, or the Courtyard Marriott Waterfront
Boothbay Harbor: spend 1-2 nights in Boothbay Harbor. On your means, cease and benefit from the coastal cities, Giant’s Stairs in Harpswell, spend a day absorbing the solar on Popham Beach, a uncommon sandy stretch of sand, and you should definitely line up for lobster rolls at Red Eats.
The subsequent day, get out on the water with considered one of Boothbay Harbor’s many sightseeing cruises to see puffins or whales, or lease a sea kayak to discover Muscongus Bay. Leave time to browse on the many boutiques on the town.
Where to remain: Tugboat Inn, Fisherman’s Wharf Inn
Rockland: spend 1 evening having fun with the creative city of Rockland. Pop into the Center for Maine Contemporary Art or the Farnsworth Art Museum. If the outside holds extra attraction, hop aboard a conventional Maine Windjammer for a brief sail, stroll alongside the Rockland Breakwater, or discover the paths at Camden Hills State Park. This arts metropolis of Maine is such a pleasant shock!
Where to remain: 250 Main Hotel
Bar Harbor: end up your highway journey on the scenic city of Bar Harbor, simply outdoors of Acadia National Park. You will wish to spend 2 to three nights exploring the park. Try to catch a dawn or sundown from the highest of Cadillac Mountain, drive the Park Loop Road, chill out on Sand Beach, cease to see the pure phenomenon at Thunder Hole, take within the view from Otter Cliffs, bike the Carriage Roads, and take a look at a few of the standard hikes. Don’t overlook to take pleasure in an genuine lobster pound earlier than you’re taking the quick route again to Portland. (See extra issues to do close to Acadia National Park.)
Where to remain: Bar Harbor Grand Hotel, Hampton by Hilton Bar Harbor, or go glamping on the Terramor Outdoor Resort
Need extra concepts? Check out my full coastal Maine highway journey itinerary!
2. White & Green Mountains: Boston, MA to Burlington, VT
The drive from Boston to Burlington takes solely about 4 hours, however use this New England highway journey to spend time having fun with the gorgeous surroundings of the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the Green Mountains of Vermont alongside the best way, particularly throughout fall foliage season.
Boston: in case you haven’t been to Boston, plan on spending 2 nights having fun with this historic metropolis. Don’t miss the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, stroll the Freedom Trail, take pleasure in a swan boat tour in Boston’s Public Garden, and style your means by way of Boston’s Little Italy within the North End.
Where to remain: Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston Harbor Hotel
Lincoln, NH: Lincoln could make a pleasant house base for 1-2 nights of exploring the White Mountains. Hike by way of the Flume Gorge, zip line, or hike at Loon Mountain, experience the Mount Washington Cog Railway, or drive the Mount Washington Auto Road. There are additionally loads of hikes to strive, mountain climbing, a scenic drive on the Kancamagus Highway, and splashing within the waterfalls at Diana’s Baths.
Where to remain: Riverwalk Resort at Loon Mountain
Stowe, VT: spend a few nights having fun with the Green Mountains from a house base in Stowe. On your drive from New Hampshire, you could wish to cease on the Cabot cheese manufacturing facility, Ben & Jerry’s Factory, and the Cold Hollow Cider Mill. In Stowe, you may take pleasure in climbing, mountain biking, and different resort actions.
Where to remain: TopNotch Resort, Stowe Mountain Resort
Burlington, VT: Finish your highway journey with an evening within the hip waterfront metropolis of Burlington. There are so many issues to do in Burlington, VT and you’ll take a look at close by Shelburne Farm, and the ECHO museum. Or in case you desire lake life, end with a number of days on Lake Champlain on the Basin Harbor Hotel. On your drive again to Boston, you should definitely cease and stroll by way of the charming downtown of Woodstock. (See extra concepts for a Vermont highway journey too!)
Where to remain: Hotel Vermont, Courtyard Burlington Harbor
3. Southern New England COast: New York, NY to Provincetown, MA
You ought to have the ability to make the journey from New York to Provincetown on the tip of Cape Cod in 5 to six hours, however the site visitors will be horrendous on summer season weekends so attempt to journey midweek for this east coast highway journey in case you can.
Mystic, CT: Break up the journey with an evening in Mystic. You will wish to go to the historic Mystic Seaport, stroll by way of downtown, and perhaps cease in on the Mystic Aquarium. You will discover loads of issues to do in Mystic with youngsters.
Where to remain: Mystic KOA, Inn at Mystic
Newport, RI: spend an evening within the yachting capital of the world. You can stroll the Cliff Walk, fly a kite at Brenton Point State Park, go to a few of the Newport Mansions, store alongside Thames, and take a sail within the harbor.
Where to remain: Newport Marriott, The Vanderbilt
Providence, RI: as an alternative of skipping over Rhode Island’s Creative Capital, spend an evening to find this little gem. Take a Rhode Island meals tour, go to the RISD Museum, take a gondola or river boat experience, bike alongside the East Bay bike path, and, in case you are fortunate, soak up Providence’s well-known Waterfire.
Where to remain: The Graduate Providence
Falmouth, MA: keep the following 2 nights on the elbow of Cape Cod in Falmouth. Take time to chill out on the seaside after which hop the ferry over to Martha’s Vineyard for a day. You also can experience the Cape Cod bike path or go to the Woods Hole Science Aquarium.
Where to remain: Sea Crest Beach Hotel
Provincetown, MA: end your highway journey with a few nights within the distinctive and vibrant city of Provincetown. You can store, dine, take a tour of the sand dunes, go on a whale-watching tour, climb the lighthouse, or go to the Pirate Museum. The better part is looking the tide swimming pools at low tide and watching the sundown.
Where to remain: Surfside Hotel & Suites
Need extra detailed recommendations? Check out my New York to Boston highway journey itinerary.
4. New York to Niagara Falls, NY
The drive from New York City to Niagara Falls can take 6 to 7 hours, however flip it right into a highway journey with a number of days within the Finger Lakes area on the best way and loads of stops alongside the Western New York Upstate Eats Trail.
Watkins Glen: spend 2 nights in Watkins Glen, on the southern level of Seneca Lake. For followers of The Office, you could wish to cease in Scranton, PA in your means for a self-driving tour of filming spots. Enjoy time on the lake, hike to the waterfalls in Watkins Glen State Park, or take a glider experience in Elmira, the Soaring Capital of the World.
Where to remain: Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel
Hammondsport: transfer over to Keuka Lake and spend a few nights in Hammondsport. You can take pleasure in water sports activities, wine tasting, and a day on the fascinating Corning Museum of Glass.
Where to remain: Keuka Lakeside Inn
Niagara Falls: it would be best to spend 2 to three nights in Niagara to discover all of the points of interest together with the Cave of the Winds, Maid of the Mist, Old Fort Niagara, jet boat excursions, and climbing trails in Niagara Falls State Park.
Where to remain: Sheraton Niagara Falls, Hyatt Place Niagara Falls
Buffalo: in your return to New York, cease in for some meals, historical past, and enjoyable in Buffalo. This metropolis goes by way of a renaissance and loads of enjoyable actions alongside the waterfront (in summer season or winter). Make positive you strive a few of these must-eat meals in Buffalo too!
Where to remain: Buffalo Marriott LECOM Harborcenter
Cooperstown: in your return journey, you should definitely cease in Seneca Falls and go to the Women’s Rights National Historical Park and the National Women’s Hall of Fame. Then spend an evening in Cooperstown and go to the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
Where to remain: Otesaga Resort, Inn at Cooperstown
5. PA Pitstops: Philadelphia to Pittsburgh, PA
Driving from Philadelphia to Pittsburgh takes about 5 hours, however going straight by way of means you’ll miss out on some many historic, scenic, and family-fun spots alongside the best way.
Lancaster: begin your journey with an evening in Lancaster’s Pennsylvania Dutch Country. You will wish to take a buggy experience, indulge at an Amish feast, or soak up a few of the historic websites. You also can take a tour of the Turkey Hill Ice Cream Experience.
Where to remain: Residence Inn by Marriott Lancaster
Hershey: subsequent cease is the sweetest place on earth, Hershey. You can spend the day at Hersheypark, go to Hershey’s Chocolate World, or the Hershey Experience. History buffs will benefit from the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, a great introduction earlier than you head to Gettysburg.
Where to remain: Hershey Lodge
Gettysburg: subsequent up is the historic city of Gettysburg. I’d extremely suggest a guided tour of the Battlefield, however there are a lot of different issues to do on the town as properly.
Where to remain: Hilton Garden Inn Gettysburg, Gettysburg Hotel
Laurel Highlands: the Laurel Highlands is a scenic mountainous area east of Pittsburgh providing spectacular pure surroundings and outside recreation. You will wish to spend 2 days rafting down the Ohiopyle, climbing by way of Pennsylvania’s largest cave at Laurel Caverns, and having fun with mountain resort actions together with zip lining, mountain climbing, summer season tubing, and extra.
Where to remain: Nemacolin Woodlands Resort
Pittsburgh: you may match rather a lot into 1 day in Pittsburgh, however spend 2 nights in case you can spare it. See the view from Mount Washington from the Duquesne Incline, go to the Heinz History Center, discover the Carnegie Science Center, and don’t miss the Tribute to Children statue of Fred Rogers close to the Allegheny River. There can be the Carnegie Museum of Art, Carnegie Museum of Natural History, and the Andy Warhol Museum. And if the Pirates are on the town, attempt to catch a baseball sport.
Where to remain: Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh, Omni William Penn Hotel
6. COlonial History: Philadelphia, PA to Williamsburg, VA
The drive from Philadelphia to Williamsburg takes about 5 hours however why not flip it right into a studying expertise with an American historical past highway journey?
Valley Forge, PA: you probably have already explored the historic websites of Philadelphia just like the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, you could wish to enterprise out of the town for a go to to the Valley Forge National Historical Park.
Baltimore, MD: spend 2 nights in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, the place you may simply go to Fort McHenry, go to the National Aquarium, stroll by way of the cobblestone streets of Fells Point, and benefit from the different Inner Harbor points of interest.
Where to remain: Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor, Pier 5 Hotel Baltimore
Washington D.C.: it would be best to spend at the least 2 to three days exploring the nation’s capital. There are so many museums and monuments to discover, you could wish to use our DC itinerary. Just keep in mind if you wish to go to the White House, you’ll need to make reservations prematurely.
Where to remain: Kimpton Hotel Palomar, The Fairfax at Embassy Row
Williamsburg, VA: end your highway journey in Colonial Williamsburg. You will want 2 to three days to benefit from the websites, together with a full day in Colonial Williamsburg, a go to to Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown, and Busch Gardens or Water Country USA.
Where to remain: Kingsmill Resort, Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg
7. Mid-atlantic Gems: Cape May, NJ to Chincoteague, VA
If you wish to keep on with the Mid-Atlantic coast, this highway journey will convey you thru cute Victorian cities, stunning seashores, and nature preserves.
Cape May, NJ: begin off your journey in Cape May. This quaint city isn’t like the remainder of the Jersey Shore. Enjoy the gourmand eating places, charming boutiques, and gingerbread-style Victorian properties.
Where to remain: Congress Hall
Lewes, DE: take the ferry throughout to Lewes, Delaware, one other Victorian city stuffed with historical past, cute cafes, and outlets. You should keep an evening so to take a sundown cruise previous the lighthouse and in case you get fortunate, you may even see some dolphins on the best way.
Where to remain: Inn at Canal Square
Bethany Beach, DE: as you proceed right down to the seashores of Southern Delaware, you might also wish to cease and take a look at a few of the native breweries and wineries on this area. If you’re searching for a boardwalk, mixed with bike trails, and nice eating places, you could desire Rehoboth Beach. Dewey Beach is filled with seaside lodges and seaside bars, together with beautiful state seashores. But in case you are searching for quiet for a number of days on the seaside, I’d suggest Bethany Beach.
Where to remain: Bethany Beach Ocean Suites Residence Inn by Marriott
Chincoteague, VA: in your approach to Assateague Island National Seashore to see the wild ponies, cease within the cute small city of Berlin, MD or for a stroll on the Ocean City boardwalk. To rise up near the wild horses, I’d suggest taking a ship tour with Captain Dan from Chincoteague. Afterward, get some marsh mud ice cream at Island Creamery.
Where to remain: Hampton Inn and Suites Chincoteague Waterfront
8. Eastern Shore: Baltimore, MD to Virginia Beach, VA
Swing by way of Maryland and Virginia’s Eastern Shore in your means right down to Virginia Beach. You can then take the freeway again to Baltimore, with a cease in Norfolk or Williamsburg in your return journey.
Annapolis, MD: begin off with an evening in Annapolis. Spend the day exploring a few of Annapolis’ historic websites, together with the State House and the U.S. Naval Academy, in addition to the boutiques and galleries downtown. Don’t depart city with out having fun with some crab muffins!
Where to remain: Graduate Annapolis
St. Michaels, MD: spend an evening having fun with the Chesapeake facet of the Eastern Shore. The charming city of St. Michaels gives up loads of retail remedy choices, but additionally cultural points of interest just like the Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum. Nearby you may go tasting at native wineries and breweries, or get out on the water with a kayak or paddle board.
Where to remain: St. Michaels Harbour Inn
Chincoteague, VA: the children will then take pleasure in an evening on the opposite facet of the peninsula, discovering the wild ponies at Chincoteague or exploring the Assateague National Seashore. Be positive to cease for ice cream on the Island Creamery!
Where to remain: Hampton Inn and Suites Chincoteague Waterfront
Virginia Beach, VA: there are such a lot of issues to do in Virginia Beach that it would be best to spend a number of days having fun with the extensive sand seashores and exploring. Also, take a look at my buddy Brianna’s information to the place to eat in Virginia Beach. If you wish to take a day journey, pop over to Hampton to discover some early historical past or go to the Virginia Air and Space Museum.
Where to remain: Hilton Garden Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront
Williamsburg, VA: end your highway journey in Colonial Williamsburg. Plan on a full day in Colonial Williamsburg, and you probably have extra time, embrace a go to to Historic Jamestowne and Yorktown, Busch Gardens, or Water Country USA.
Where to remain: Kingsmill Resort, Great Wolf Lodge Williamsburg
9. Skyline Drive: Washington DC to Charlottesville, VA
This highway journey will convey you thru Shenandoah National Park for a mixture of outside adventures and historic landmarks. We lined this floor throughout a part of a extra intensive Virginia highway journey a number of years again.
Woodstock, VA: spend 2 nights in Woodstock, exploring close by Shenandoah Caverns, climbing the Woodstock Tower, tubing on the Shenandoah River, having fun with summer season sports activities at Bryce Resort, and climbing in Shenandoah National Park.
Where to remain: Hampton Inn & Suites Woodstock
Harrisonburg, VA: spend the day exploring Shenandoah National Park and driving the Skyline Drive earlier than arriving in Harrisonburg for the evening. This is a superb highway journey for a university tour as a result of James Madison University can be situated right here. Be positive to additionally cease at Kline’s Dairy Bar for its well-known custard-style ice cream.
Where to remain: Residence Inn Harrisonburg
Charlottesville, VA: plan on spending 2 nights in Charlottesville. Stroll and store downtown after which take pleasure in a conventional, Colonial-style luncheon on the historic Michie Tavern, adopted by a go to to Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello property. In the night, head as much as Carter Mountain Orchard to catch a sundown and a few reside music. On your second day, you may both discover extra historical past at President James Monroe’s house, do some native wine tasting, tour the campus of the University of Virginia, or kayak alongside the James River.
Where to remain: Graduate Charlottesville
Richmond, VA: end up your highway journey with a few days in Richmond. While it was as soon as the capital of the Confederate South, immediately the state capital is discovering a brand new identification with loads of avenue artwork, craft beer, and enjoyable eating choices. You could wish to take a look at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, or the Institute of Contemporary Art earlier than heading again to DC.
Where to remain: Graduate Richmond
10. Carolina Coast: Washington DC to Wilmington, NC
If you’re prepared to flee the town for the coast, it’s time for a highway journey right down to Wilmington, North Carolina and Wrightsville Beach. The six-hour drive is lengthy however then there may be a lot to do on the Carolina coast when you arrive and this highway journey provides you an opportunity to determine your favourite seaside.
Emerald Isle, NC: Emerald Isle is on North Carolina’s Crystal Coast, or the “southern” Outer Banks. This space attracts guests who’ve returned for many years for the straightforward seaside pleasures of a household trip. Emerald Isle gives 12 miles of pristine shoreline and unbelievable views of the Atlantic Ocean and Bogue Inlet. Spend a number of days having fun with watersports, fishing, or just sitting on the sand and having fun with the sound of the waves rolling in.
Where to remain: Inn at Pine Knoll Shores, Islander Hotel & Resort
Surf City, NC: keep a few days in Surf City, the middle of Topsail Island. The enjoyable and uncrowded seashores are what some name “the way the beach used to be.” You also can take pleasure in kayaking, fishing, and boating on the Intercoastal.
Wrightsville Beach, NC: after you have arrived in Wrightsville Beach arrange your private home base for the following few days to discover. You will wish to spend a while within the historic downtown of Wilmington, take a meals tour in Kure Beach, stroll the grounds of Airlie Gardens, take a hike in Carolina State Park, or take pleasure in some seaside time. Don’t miss a cease at Britt’s Donuts — the very best on the east coast!
Where to remain: Blockade Runner Beach Resort
11. Low Country: Raleigh, NC to Savannah, GA
You could make the drive from Raleigh to Savannah in about 5 hours, however it pays to take the coastal route and make some stops alongside the best way.
Myrtle Beach, SC: how lengthy you spend in Myrtle Beach is dependent upon the vibe of a seaside city that you just take pleasure in. If you take pleasure in a boardwalk, arcades, household points of interest, and loads of kitsch — then you’ll take pleasure in a basic household trip to Myrtle Beach. But you can too get away from the crowds by kayaking by way of the salt marshes, strolling by way of Brookgreen Gardens, or paddle boarding.
Where to remain: Island Vista
Charleston, SC: for a whole change of tempo, spend an evening or two within the historic metropolis of Charleston. Start off with a carriage tour by way of the downtown, go to a few of the historic properties and gardens, and uncover why Charleston is a foodie vacation spot.
Where to remain: The Mills House Wyndham Grand
Beaufort, SC: spend a day exploring Beaufort, the upcoming-and-coming “next” Charleston or Savannah. Explore its antebellum mansions and downtown historic district. You also can benefit from the low nation marshlands and waterways.
Where to remain: Anchorage 1770 Inn
Savannah, GA: end up this east coast highway journey in Savannah. Wander by way of the town’s many squares lined with oaks dripping in Spanish moss in Savannah’s historic district. Check out the Prohibition Museum, after which take pleasure in Savannah’s vibrant eating and craft cocktail scene. Stroll down touristy river avenue, take a ghost tour, go to a few of the historic properties, or spend a time out on the seaside at Tybee Island. See my buddy Rob’s (who has an Airbnb there) favourite issues to do in Savannah.
Where to remain: Perry Lane Hotel
12. Blue Ridge Mountains: Charlotte, NC to Gatlinburg, TN
If lakes and mountains are calling you, head in the direction of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Great Smoky Mountains National Park — with a number of stops alongside the best way.
Lake Lure, NC: the backdrop to Dirty Dancing, Lake Lure is a favourite household trip vacation spot. You will want a few days to discover Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, Chimney Rock State Park, and Chimney Rock Village which has loads of outlets and eating choices, together with a scenic riverwalk subsequent to the creek that children will take pleasure in enjoying in on a heat sunny day. Plus it’s a must to depart time to benefit from the lake, by boat or seaside.
Where to remain: Lake Lure Inn & Spa
Asheville, NC: situated on the Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville has many enjoyable issues to do with youngsters. Take the Blue Ridge Highway to Sliding Rock, Looking Glass Falls, and different climbing trails. Swing from the treetops on the Adventure Center of Asheville, play some video games on the Asheville Pinball Museum, go to the Biltmore Estate, some of the standard issues to do in North Carolina, or pattern some native craft brews. If you’ve got extra time to highway journey, you should definitely discover these Blue Ridge Parkway stops.
Where to remain: Aloft Asheville Downtown
Gatlinburg, NC: use Gatlinburg as your base for exploring elements of Great Smoky Mountains National Park (don’t miss Cades Cove Loop) and Pigeon Forge as properly. You can go climbing, bike by way of the park, spend a day at Dollywood, go zip lining, see the view from Clingmans Dome, go horseback using, or see a present.
Where to remain: Margaritaville Resort Gatlinburg
13. Coastal Islands: Wilmington, NC to Jacksonville, FL
Another coastal highway journey, this one bypasses the cities in favor of luxurious seaside locations and brings you from Wilmington, NC all the best way right down to Jacksonville, Florida. A 6.5-hour drive by freeway, you may spend every week or extra exploring the coast. This journey brings you to a few of the finest seashores within the USA.
Kiawah Island: begin off your highway journey in luxurious on the Kiawah Resort. This personal residential island and resort is legendary for its acclaimed golf course, however households also can take pleasure in 5-Star lodging and 10 miles of personal sandy shoreline.
Where to remain: The Sanctuary Hotel at Kiawah Island Resort
Hilton Head Island: spend a few days having fun with the seashores of Hilton Head Island. You also can golf, take a guided dolphin or kayak tour, or take pleasure in some low-country delicacies. You gained’t discover cheesy memento outlets or neon indicators. HHI has a quieter, extra relaxed lifestyle.
Where to remain: Disney’s Hilton Head Island Resort
Amelia Island: end this luxe highway journey at The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island. Relax and benefit from the resort, seek for shark tooth, star gaze from the seaside, buy groceries in downtown Fernandina Beach, take a kayaking tour, or hop a ferry for a day journey to Cumberland Island to see the wild horses.
Where to remain: The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
14. Civil Rights Trail: Atlanta, GA to Memphis, TN
It is a six-hour drive from Atlanta to Memphis, and I like to recommend turning it right into a Civil Rights highway journey.
Atlanta: beginning off in Atlanta, in case you haven’t already visited I’d suggest spending a few days visiting a few of the essential Civil Rights websites together with the Center for Civil and Human Rights and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Another enjoyable means of exploring some historical past is thru a meals tour with Atlanta Food Walks.
Where to remain: Loews Atlanta Hotel
Montgomery, AL: plan on spending a full day in Montgomery visiting the Rosa Parks Museum, the Freedom Rides Museum, and the National Memorial for Peace and Justice, which honors victims of lynchings. On your approach to Birmingham, you can also make a detour to Selma to stroll throughout the Edmund Pettus Bridge and go to different Civil Rights websites.
Where to remain: Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa
Birmingham, AL: in case you cease in Selma, you could wish to plan on spending 2 nights in Birmingham so that you don’t need to rush. Be positive to go to the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Kelly Ingram Park, and the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church. Take a while to take pleasure in Birmingham’s up-and-coming neighborhoods and meals scene too.
Where to remain: Westin Birmingham
Memphis, TN: it’s simple to spend at the least 3 days in Memphis, extra if you wish to do a day journey to Graceland. You will want a half-day to soak up the sobering displays on the National Civil Rights Museum on the Lorraine Motel (the place the place MLK Jr. was assassinated.) Also go to Slave Haven, Sun Studios and STAX Museum of American Soul Museum. Just depart time to take pleasure in some nice BBQ and soul meals.
Where to remain: The Peabody Memphis
15. Golden Isles: Savannah, GA to St. Augustine, FL
This coastal highway journey from Savannah to St. Augustine, Florida stops at a lot of Georgia’s Islands alongside the best way.
Little St. Simons Island: spend a number of days on this personal island nature protect with simply 32 different friends and seven miles of pristine seaside to discover. Take benefit of twice-daily naturalist-led expeditions, kayak by way of the marshes to go chook watching, bike to the seaside, or observe a few of the property’s resident armadillos.
Where to remain: Little St. Simons Resort
Jekyll Island: plan on spending at the least 2-3 days on Jekyll Island, one other of Georgia’s Golden Isles. You will wish to go to Driftwood Beach, take a look at the Georgia Sea Turtle Center, picnic at South Dunes Beach Park, chill out on one of many many Jekyll Island seashores and even take pleasure in a day on the waterpark.
Where to remain: Jekyll Island Club Resort
St. Augustine, FL: end your highway journey with a go to to historic St. Augustine — the nation’s oldest constantly occupied metropolis. You can keep on the seaside or on the town however you should definitely take a look at each. You can go to the Fountain of Youth, stroll the ramparts at Castillo St. Marcos, take a trolley tour, take a meals tour to find a few of the city’s finest locations to eat, take a ghost tour, climb a lighthouse, or discover these different enjoyable issues to do with youngsters.
Where to remain: Embassy Suites St. Augustine Beach
16. Florida Coast: St. Augustine to Miami, FL
Driving the east coast of Florida from Jacksonville to Miami will be carried out in 5 hours, however why miss all the good seashores, historical past, and enjoyable points of interest on the best way?
Jacksonville / St. Augustine: you may fly into Jacksonville or begin off in St. Augustine. In addition to all of the historic city of St. Augustine has to supply (see above), Jacksonville gives a lot for teenagers too with the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens, Museum of Science and History, Sweet Pete’s Candy Shop, TopGolf, and extra.
Where to remain: The Lodge & Club at Ponte Vedra Beach
Cocoa Beach, FL: spend 2 to three days having fun with the world close to Cocoa Beach, together with a full day at Kennedy Space Center. You also can kayak previous the giraffes at close by Brevard Zoo in close by Melbourne or study to surf at Cocoa Beach, the East Coast surf capital.
Where to remain: Hampton Inn Cocoa Beach
Hollywood, FL: subsequent you may keep a few nights in Hollywood, between Fort Lauderdale and Miami. Enjoy strolling alongside the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, ArtsPark at Young Circle, the Art and Culture Center of Hollywood, and the Anne Kolb Nature Center, with mangrove trails and an aquarium.
Where to remain: Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort
Miami, FL: you probably have had sufficient seaside time, you may give attention to Miami’s neighborhoods and cultural points of interest together with Wynwood Walls, Little Haiti, Little Havana, and the Vizcaya Museum and Gardens. Even plan a day journey to the Everglades for an alligator airboat tour! Of course, you may’t depart city with out at the least trying out Miami Beach.
Where to remain: Eden Roc Beach Hotel or The Diplomat Beach Resort
17. Florida Keys: Miami to Key West, FL
Driving from Miami to Key West is a basic American highway journey. The journey can take a great 5 hours, however it’s good to depart loads of time relying on site visitors. It provides you the time to get into “island mode.”
Key Largo: it’s best to interrupt up the journey by staying a number of days within the higher keys, since each key has its personal persona. From right here you may discover most of what Key Largo and Islamorada have to supply together with John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, snorkeling or different watersports at Robbie’s, or glass-bottom boat excursions of the Key Largo National Marine Sanctuary.
Where to remain: Baker’s Cay Resort
Duck Key: Hawk’s Cay at Duck Key is a superb spot for households to cease and chill out for a number of days, having fun with all of the actions on this family-friendly resort.
Where to remain: Hawks Cay Resort
Key West: in your approach to Key West, it would be best to cease on the Turtle Hospital in Marathon and Bahia Honda State Park. Once on the town, don’t miss out on the well-known Sunset Celebration. You can also wish to take a snorkel cruise or sundown catamaran. You can discover Key West’s vibrant meals scene with a meals tour — plus discover out the place to get the very best Key Lime pie. Don’t overlook to take an image on the Southernmost Point.
Where to remain: Margaritaville Key West
18: Southwest Florida: Miami to Tampa, FL
Cross Alligator Alley from Miami to Southwest Florida to discover the fantastic thing about the Paradise Coast. Each city has its personal persona so it would be best to do some seaside hopping in your means up Florida’s Gulf Coast.
Marco Island: the extensive, white sand seashores of Marco Island will entice you to remain for a number of days. On the best way, it is best to cease at Everglades National Park and take one of many many airboat excursions obtainable. You can also take pleasure in a dolphin watch tour, kayaking, paddle boarding, fishing, parasailing, and even jet snowboarding. A nature stroll in Big Cypress Nature Preserve will introduce you to the world’s plant and wildlife.
Where to remain: JW Marriott Marco Island Beach Resort
Captiva Island: shelling followers will discover their paradise on Sanibel and Captiva Islands. With a lot of the islands saved as a nature protect, you’re certain to identify dolphins, manatees, and ample birdlife.
Where to remain: Seven Seas Island Resort
Clearwater Beach: simply west of Tampa, the sugar-soft white sand of Clearwater has lengthy been acknowledged as the most effective seashores within the U.S. In addition to seaside time and water sports activities, households take pleasure in visiting the Clearwater Marine Aquarium. You also can discover the cultural points of interest and household points of interest of Tampa, together with Busch Gardens, ZooTampa, the Museum of Science and Industry, and extra.
Where to remain: Hyatt Regency Clearwater
19. Central Florida: Daytona to Clearwater, FL
The shortest highway journey could also be throughout Florida from Daytona Beach to Clearwater. Yet there may be a lot to do in Orlando and Central Florida that you may simply spend every week or extra getting the very best of all worlds from the seaside to the theme park.
Orlando: earlier than leaving Daytona Beach, be sure to spend a day on the Kennedy Space Center, particularly in case you are fortunate sufficient to be round to launch day. Of course in Orlando you may spend weeks in Disney, Universal, Legoland, and SeaWorld, plus all of the theme parks like Volcano Bay and H2O Live. But there are such a lot of off-the-beaten-path Orlando points of interest too from kayaking by way of the wetlands to visiting close by pure springs.
Where to remain: Margaritaville Orlando
Clearwater Beach: earlier than arriving in Clearwater Beach, you could wish to hit up a few of the points of interest in Tampa, like Busch Gardens or ZooTampa. Then take time to chill out on the sugar-soft white sand seashores of Clearwater. Take a pirate cruise, take pleasure in films within the park, and go to Winter the Dolphin (well-known from the film A Dolphin’s Tale) and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
Where to remain: Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
20. Panhandle: Orlando, FL to Orange Beach, AL
When you’re prepared to flee Central Florida for the beautiful seashores of the Panhandle, head north on this Florida highway journey.
Tallahassee: the drive from Orlando to Tallahassee takes about 4 hours, however there are many pure springs, like Crystal River or Rainbow Springs, to cease at alongside the best way. Or, flip it into a university journey and go to the University of Florida in Gainesville. In Tallahassee, you can see bushes lined with bushes dripping in moss as an alternative of the palm bushes of South Florida. Kids will even benefit from the Tallahassee Museum, Challenger Learning Center, Mission San Luis, and the Gulf Specimen Marine Lab.
Where to remain: aLoft Tallahassee Downtown
Destin: prepare for a number of days of seaside life in Destin on the Panhandle’s Emerald Coast. There are a ton of issues to do with youngsters together with the Gulfarium Marine Adventure Park, Indian Mound Museum, Big Kahuna’s water park, banana boat rides, parasailing, and extra.
Where to remain: Hilton Sandestin Beach Golf Resort
Orange Beach, AL: considered one of our favourite seashores, you may evaluate the Florida versus Alabama Gulf coast expertise. In addition to enjoyable on the sugar-soft sands of Gulf Shores or Orange Beach, there may be a lot else to do from biking in Gulf State Park, zip lining at The Wharf, sundown cruises with Sail Wildhearts, dolphin cruises, and naturally, chowing down on wonderful meals!
Where to remain: Turquoise Place
Need extra concepts?
I hope this East Coast highway journey planner was useful. If you continue to want extra inspiration, see extra East Coast trip concepts or issues to do in New England.
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