Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Get inspired!
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
Get inspired!
Hand-picked deals by our pirate team
New England to Florida: The Best East Coast Road Trips
The East Coast is the birthplace of the USA. From New England through Virginia to Florida, the first European settlers founded colonies along the Atlantic coast after the discovery of the New World. Today, numerous exciting historical sites await you along this route, making east coast road trips a journey through American history.
While famous cities like New York, Washington, and Boston are major highlights, the region's natural beauty is equally impressive. The endless forests of New England offer the unforgettable spectacle of Indian Summer in autumn, while the Shenandoah National Park further south captivates outdoor enthusiasts with its diverse landscapes. Join us on an unforgettable east coast roadtrip! Heading west? Check our guide to West Coast trips.
Planning Your East Coast Road Trip
You can decide whether to plan your east coast trip independently with a rental car or RV or join an organized bus tour. However, organized tours follow fixed schedules, leaving little room for spontaneity. If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car or RV allows you to customize your route according to your preferences.
Time Planning for Your East Coast Trip
Don't underestimate the distances along the East Coast! Interstate Highway 95 stretches over a thousand miles from the Canadian border to Miami, Florida. If you plan to explore the entire coast, you should allow at least two months. It's often better to focus on a specific region. Even a single state can offer enough attractions to keep you busy for two to three weeks.
Transportation Options
Although the USA is known for its car culture, the East Coast offers diverse transportation options.
Traveling by Train
The northeastern region has a well-developed rail network with long-distance and regional trains. Amtrak's Acela Express connects Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, providing a stress-free way to explore major cities. The USA Rail Pass by Amtrak is a great option, offering flexible travel for 15 or 30 days. Regional trains and subway systems complement this service, while Greyhound buses provide affordable connections to smaller towns.
Rental Car or RV?
If you want to explore smaller towns, rural areas, and coastal regions, a rental car or RV is your best bet. Highways are lined with budget motels, though it's advisable to book accommodations in popular summer destinations like Cape Cod in advance. RV road trips are also popular, with numerous campgrounds offering electricity and sanitary facilities.
If you'd rather leave the planning to others, various bus tours cover everything from six-day New England trips to three-week journeys from New York to Miami.
Top East Coast Stops
Whether you're drawn to historical landmarks, vibrant cities, or natural solitude, the East Coast has something for everyone. Here are some must-visit destinations:
The classic New England states of Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine
New York City and the Hudson Valley, stretching to Lake Ontario and Niagara Falls
Historic cities like Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington
Virginia's Historic Triangle: Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown
South Carolina's charming Savannah and Charleston
Florida's Atlantic coast, with its beaches and tourist attractions
Weather Considerations
Keep in mind the seasonal weather conditions. New England winters can bring heavy snowstorms, while hurricane season affects Florida from early summer to autumn. The summer months can also be extremely humid in the South.
Route Suggestions for East Coast Road Trips
New England with New York and Niagara Falls
Start in New York City, spending at least three days exploring landmarks like the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Metropolitan Museum. From there, head northwest to the iconic Niagara Falls. Consider a side trip to Toronto before continuing to Vermont, known for its stunning landscapes and Ben & Jerry's factory in Waterbury.
Next, travel to Massachusetts, where Boston's Freedom Trail and Plymouth's Pilgrim sites offer rich historical insights. Conclude your trip with beach days on Cape Cod and a visit to Martha's Vineyard before returning to New York.
Philadelphia, Washington DC, and the Historic Triangle
Begin in Philadelphia, the cradle of American independence. Visit the Independence National Historical Park and the Liberty Bell before heading to Washington, DC. The capital's National Mall is lined with Smithsonian museums, all offering free admission.
From Washington, venture into Virginia's Historic Triangle. Jamestown, Williamsburg, and Yorktown offer a glimpse into the country's colonial and revolutionary history. End your trip with relaxation at Virginia Beach.
Beach Stops on Your East Coast Road Trip
The East Coast boasts famous beaches, from lively tourist hubs to secluded shores, making it a perfect destination for sun-seekers. Whether you're looking for family-friendly destinations, bustling boardwalks, or tranquil getaways, the East Coast offers a variety of options.
Cape Cod
Cape Cod in Massachusetts is known for its picturesque coastal scenery. Chatham, Brewster, and Hyannis offer stunning sandy beaches, ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and long walks along the shore. The area is also famous for its quaint seaside villages, fresh seafood, and opportunities for whale watching. Don't miss the iconic Nauset Beach or the serene shores of Race Point Beach in Provincetown.
Coney Island
For a quick city escape in New York, Coney Island provides a nostalgic beach experience. With its historic boardwalk, amusement parks, and classic hot dogs from Nathan's Famous, Coney Island is perfect for a day trip. The nearby Brighton Beach also offers a more relaxed atmosphere and diverse dining options.
Atlantic City
Once hailed as the "Las Vegas of the East Coast," Atlantic City in New Jersey is still worth a visit. Beyond its casinos, the city's boardwalk stretches for miles along the coast, offering shops, restaurants, and beachside entertainment. For a quieter experience, head to nearby Brigantine Beach.
Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach combines history with beach relaxation. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is perfect for a scenic stroll, while the nearby First Landing State Park provides hiking trails and serene beachfront views. Families can enjoy the Virginia Aquarium or take a dolphin-watching tour.
Virginia Beach
Virginia Beach combines history with beach relaxation. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk is perfect for a scenic stroll, while the nearby First Landing State Park provides hiking trails and serene beachfront views. Families can enjoy the Virginia Aquarium or take a dolphin-watching tour.
Myrtle Beach
South Carolina's Grand Strand features miles of uninterrupted coastline. Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for families, thanks to its amusement parks, shopping outlets, and vibrant nightlife. Golf enthusiasts will also find numerous championship courses in the area.
Hilton Head Island
Nestled between Savannah and Charleston, Hilton Head Island is known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. The island's pristine beaches, scenic bike trails, and world-class golf courses make it a perfect retreat. Cultural events and fresh seafood dining add to the island's charm, making it an excellent stop for a laid-back beach vacation.
Time To Hit The Road
East coast trips offer an incredible blend of history, nature, and vibrant cities. Whether you're exploring New England's scenic landscapes, retracing America's founding moments, or relaxing on Florida's beaches, every stop along the way promises unforgettable memories. With so many east coast road trip stops to choose from, your journey is sure to leave you planning your next bucket-list adventure before you even return home.
We value your privacy
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalized content, and analyze our traffic. By clicking "Accept All" you accept this and consent that we share this information with third parties and that your data may be processed in the USA. For more information, please read our .
You can adjust your preferences at any time. If you deny, we will use only the essential cookies and unfortunately, you will not receive any personalized content. To deny, .