Eastern Coast States Travel Guide

Introduction

Located on the eastern seaboard of the United States, the Eastern Coast States offer a wide variety of attractions and activities for travelers. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, vibrant nightlife to family-friendly activities, there is something for everyone along this beautiful coastline. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports that make the Eastern Coast States a must-visit destination.

Top Attractions

New York City

No Eastern Coast States travel guide would be complete without mentioning the Big Apple. New York City is a bustling metropolis that is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, including the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and Central Park. Visitors can also enjoy world-class museums, Broadway shows, and a vibrant food scene.

Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital is a must-visit destination for history buffs. In Washington, D.C., visitors can explore the Smithsonian museums, which house some of the country’s most important artifacts and exhibits. The city is also home to numerous monuments and landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial and the White House.

Boston

Boston is a city steeped in history and culture. Visitors can walk the Freedom Trail, which takes them through some of the city’s most important historical sites, including the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church. Boston is also home to numerous museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum.

Hidden Gems

Assateague Island National Seashore

Located off the coast of Maryland and Virginia, Assateague Island is a hidden gem that is home to wild horses and pristine beaches. Visitors can camp on the island and enjoy hiking, biking, and kayaking.

The Outer Banks

The Outer Banks of North Carolina is a string of barrier islands that offer a laid-back beach experience. Visitors can explore the historic lighthouses, take a wild horse tour, or simply relax on the beautiful beaches.

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is the oldest continually inhabited city in the United States and is home to numerous historic sites, including the Castillo de San Marcos and the Fountain of Youth. Visitors can also enjoy the city’s beautiful beaches and excellent dining scene.

Food Scene

Lobster Rolls

No trip to the Eastern Coast States is complete without trying a lobster roll. These sandwiches are typically made with fresh lobster meat and served on a buttered roll. Some of the best lobster rolls can be found in Maine and Massachusetts.

Cheesesteaks

Philadelphia is the home of the famous cheesesteak sandwich. These sandwiches are typically made with thinly sliced beef and served on a long roll with melted cheese. Visitors can sample cheesesteaks from numerous vendors throughout the city.

Crab Cakes

Maryland is known for its delicious crab cakes. These cakes are typically made with fresh lump crab meat and served with a side of Old Bay seasoning. Visitors can sample crab cakes at numerous seafood restaurants throughout the state.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Visit National Parks

The Eastern Coast States are home to numerous national parks, including Acadia National Park in Maine and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina and Tennessee. Visitors can enjoy hiking and other outdoor activities for a minimal fee.

Take Advantage of Free Attractions

Many of the Eastern Coast States’ top attractions, such as the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C., are free to enter. Visitors can also enjoy free walking tours in many cities and explore historic sites like the Freedom Trail in Boston at no cost.

Travel Off-Season

The Eastern Coast States can be crowded and expensive during the summer months. Traveling in the off-season, such as during the fall or spring, can help visitors save money on accommodations and activities.

Outdoor Adventures

Hiking in the Appalachian Mountains

The Appalachian Mountains offer some of the best hiking in the Eastern Coast States. Visitors can explore numerous trails, including the famous Appalachian Trail, which runs from Georgia to Maine.

Kayaking in the Chesapeake Bay

The Chesapeake Bay is a beautiful body of water that offers excellent kayaking opportunities. Visitors can explore the bay’s numerous islands and see wildlife like osprey and bald eagles.

Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a popular destination for whale watching. Visitors can take a boat tour and see these magnificent creatures up close.

Family-Friendly Activities

Visit the National Aquarium in Baltimore

The National Aquarium in Baltimore is a great destination for families. Visitors can see a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, dolphins, and sea turtles.

Explore Colonial Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia is a living history museum that allows visitors to step back in time to the 18th century. Families can explore historic homes and buildings, watch reenactments, and learn about life in colonial America.

Visit Hersheypark

Hersheypark in Pennsylvania is a popular amusement park that is perfect for families. Visitors can enjoy rides, shows, and attractions, as well as sample delicious chocolate treats.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Visit the Biltmore Estate

The Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina is a stunning mansion that was built by the Vanderbilt family. Visitors can explore the estate’s gardens, winery, and historic buildings.

Explore the Okefenokee Swamp

The Okefenokee Swamp in Georgia is a unique wilderness area that is home to alligators, black bears, and other wildlife. Visitors can explore the swamp on a guided boat tour.

Visit the Mark Twain House

The Mark Twain House in Hartford, Connecticut is a beautiful Victorian mansion where the famous author lived and worked. Visitors can tour the house and learn about Twain’s life and work.

Natural Wonders

Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, which straddles the border between New York and Canada, is one of the most impressive natural wonders in the world. Visitors can take a boat tour to see the falls up close.

The Blue Ridge Mountains

The Blue Ridge Mountains, which run through Virginia and North Carolina, are a stunning natural wonder. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities in this beautiful area.

The Great Dismal Swamp

The Great Dismal Swamp, which spans Virginia and North Carolina, is a unique wilderness area that is home to numerous species of wildlife, including black bears and bobcats. Visitors can explore the swamp on a guided tour.

Vibrant Nightlife

Bourbon Street in New Orleans

New Orleans is known for its vibrant nightlife, and Bourbon Street is the epicenter of the city’s party scene. Visitors can enjoy live music, delicious food, and a wide variety of drinks.

The Boardwalk in Atlantic City

Atlantic City is a popular destination for nightlife, and the boardwalk is the place to be. Visitors can enjoy casinos, nightclubs, and live entertainment.

The Miami Beach Nightlife

Miami is known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife. Visitors can enjoy bars, nightclubs, and live music in this exciting city.

Local Markets

The Pike Place Market

The Pike Place Market in Seattle, Washington is a bustling market that is home to numerous vendors selling fresh produce, seafood, and other goods. Visitors can also enjoy street performances and other entertainment.

The Reading Terminal Market

The Reading Terminal Market in Philadelphia is a historic market that is home to numerous vendors selling delicious food and other goods. Visitors can sample everything from cheesesteaks to Amish pretzels.

The Union Square Greenmarket

The Union Square Greenmarket in New York City is a popular destination for foodies. Visitors can buy fresh produce, baked goods, and other products from local farmers and producers.

Beaches and Mountains

The Hamptons

The Hamptons, located on Long Island, New York, is a popular destination for beachgoers. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, excellent dining, and luxurious accommodations.