USA: Feeding the Travel Bug in the East Coast

Summer and spring are the perfect seasons for planning a long and fun road trip. So why not do it along the marvelous East Coast of the United States? Yes, you have to plan out the route and bring plenty of snacks and some gear, but it’s worth it. The East Coast has a lot to offer and we have chosen the most beautiful and memorable cities and their monuments for you to check out.

White Mountains (Lincoln, New Hampshire)

There is no better place to start your East Coast road trip than in New Hampshire. Here, in Lincoln, you shouldn’t miss out the chance to visit the White Mountains, which are filled with incredible experiences for the visitors. If you like adventures, like to explore, and see and ride horses, this is the place for you. You can ride through meadows and forests, enjoying the panoramic mountain views—which are stunning. Also, here you can partake in activities such as a moose safari tour or tubing in the Saco River.

Portland Head Light (Cape Elizabeth, Maine)

A bit further down the East Coast is the Portland Head Lighthouse in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. This is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, and it was first lit in January 1791. Additionally, you can stretch your legs a bit from all the driving and walk along the shores of Fort Williams Park and enjoy the breathtaking views. After that, you can check out the museum in the house of former keepers of the lighthouse and learn something new about this amazing structure.

The Witch House (Salem, Massachusetts)

The next memorable stop on your trip down the East Coast should be Salem, Massachusetts. Here you can visit the Witch House and truly experience the old and mythical times. In the historic town of Salem, you can truly step back into the 17th century. The Witch House actually belonged to Jonathan Corwin who was a judge serving during the Salem Witch Trials. He sent 19 people to the gallows, and his house is the only structure left that is connected to this event.

New York Botanical Gardens (Bronx, New York)

If you don’t want to go through the hectic hustle and bustle of NYC, then you should head straight for the Bronx and its New York Botanical Gardens. This is a national historic landmark and it is one of the largest in the country. You can take long nature walks through a total of 250 acres and witness some of the prettiest landscapes. What is more, if you’re taking this trip in the spring, you will manage to catch sight of hundreds of cherry blossom trees and enjoy the pretty colors.

However, while you’re in the state of New York, it wouldn’t hurt to visit NYC and its most famous landmarks, such as Times Square, if you haven’t already been there.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo (Washington, DC)

Next stop is Washington, DC. You can’t go through East Coast and skip the capital! However, you’re probably too tired from all the driving and walking through the parks, so you can take a break here. Hopefully, you have brought along some of the best car air beds for a quick nap before you continue the trip or haven’t found an affordable hotel in Washington.

But, to get back on track, in Washington, you should make a plan to see Smithsonian’s National Zoo. This is one of the biggest zoos and it is free of charge! It is home to more than 1,500 animals, across 300 species, and it is in the heart of Rock Creek Park. After you have taken a long walk through the zoo and want to relax a bit, you can visit the Bird House’s Outdoor Flight Cage away from the crowds, and get a closer look to the free-flying birds who love their visitors.

Roanoke, Virginia

Roanoke, Virginia is one of the most beautiful historic cities and it is set against the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains. There are hundreds of hiking trails just waiting for you to explore them. Also, you can explore the beauties of the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests with a bike and take in all the nature.

Additionally, you can visit some most historic spots, such as St. Andrew’s Cathedral and learn something new. Also, there is also the most gorgeous Carvins Cove Natural Reserve and the Roanoke Valley which are really fun and breathtaking to explore. Plus, after being cooped up in a car, bike rides and hikes will certainly going to help you stay active and stretch your legs a bit.

Union Point Park (New Bern, North Carolina)

Since you’re probably hungry, there is no better place than Union Point Park to put an end to hunger. New Bern is a small town on a river and it is filled with delicious eateries and tiny boutiques. Also, a slow walk through the Union Point Park will relax you, give you a perfect spot for a picnic and observing the beautiful waterfront sights.

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Further down south, you can spend a whole day at the Myrtle Beach and its gorgeous Boardwalk. It is a great spot for families and groups of friends having fun on road trips, and there you can take a ride on the infamous Myrtle Beach SkyWheel.

Bonaventure Cemetery (Savannah, Georgia)

The history lessons are not done, because Savannah showcases some of the most stunning historic spots of the South. This includes a 100-acre cemetery with some elaborate tombstones. You can join a guided tour and learn all about the famous people buried in the Bonaventure Cemetery, such as Johnny Mercer and Conrad Aiken. Also, make sure not to miss the eerie and fun ghost tour.

John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park (Key Largo, Florida)

Unfortunately, this is where your East Coast road trip stops, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. In the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo, Florida you can see the beautiful wildlife of the Atlantic ocean. This park was founded in 1963 and it is the first undersea park in the US. It takes you through three miles in the Atlantic ocean where all the astonishing creatures calmly swim around and let you see them.

What are you waiting for? This is one of the most beautiful and fun routes you can take through the East Coast. So, pack your bags, essentials and friends, and drive off down the coast for some fun and plenty of memories.