road trip washington boston

Road Trip From Washington DC To Boston

Anyone looking for an epic East Coast cruise that's both urban and scenic should do the road trip from Washington DC to Boston. The trip will take you through several of the East's major cities, as well as some of its most breathtaking natural landscapes.

The 440-mile road trip from Washington DC to Boston takes 7 hours 30 minutes. The route covers cities such as Baltimore and New York, the vistas of South Mountain Reservation and Liberty State Park, as well as the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail.

To call this trip memorable would be an understatement, so keep reading to get an idea of what you can expect to see.

How far is Boston from Washington DC and how long will the road trip take?

The road trip from Washington DC to Boston spans 440 miles and takes about 7 hours and 30 minutes to complete. If you take off early enough, you have a chance of making it to Boston the same day, and you're guaranteed to make it to the state of New York at the very least.

With that said, there's plenty of incentive to devote at least two weeks to this road trip. One thing you could do is add about 100 miles to your trip by circling New Jersey via the Garden State Parkway – this adds Atlantic City and some scenic parks to your drive.

An issue with planning this trip is the traffic near Baltimore and Philadelphia. Coming out of Washington, a congested city in its own right, a bad luck streak can significantly slow down the first third of your trip - try to take off at sunrise to minimize the chances of that happening.

If you want to cut down the travel time, you could temporarily detour deeper into Pennsylvania to get around Philadelphia, then get back to the main route. The problem here is that this detour is quite barren, so it's better to take your chances with the traffic around Philadelphia.

Best road trip route from Washington DC to Boston

The best route from Washington DC to Boston takes you through Baltimore before giving you the option to pass by Philadelphia or make a detour to the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail.

You're in for a treat whichever way you go, since the rest of this scenic drive is exactly the same - it's just a matter of choosing between a more urban or a coastal approach to the middle portion of the drive.

Road trip route from Washington DC to Boston

Along the Baltimore-Washington Highway, drive through Greenbelt Park and past Patuxent Research Refuge all the way to Baltimore. Get on Interstate 95, and follow it out of the city, passing by Susquehanna State Park and over Susquehanna River before reaching Delaware.

Once you've passed Wilmington and crossed Delaware Memorial Bridge, you have two options – driving the New Jersey Turnpike and making detours to Philadelphia or Wharton State Forest, or taking Routes 40, 55, 347, and 47 to Garden State Parkway along the coast.

If you choose to do the latter, you'll be passing through Atlantic City and past a long series of beautiful parks, forests, and refuges. Whatever you choose, the roads converge just past the Raritan River.

Detour into Jersey City or South New York, or follow the toll road north before making a right past Overpeck County Park and crossing the George Washington Bridge. Following Interstate 87, go through Van Cortlandt Park, then follow Route 15 over the Housatonic River.

Cut through West Rock Ridge State Park and pass Sleeping Giant State Park, then get on Interstate 91 and follow it past Dinosaur State Park. Cross Charter Oak Bridge and get on Interstate 84 – follow it out of Connecticut and into Massachusetts, passing Bigelow Hollow State Park.

Finally, past Wells State Park, get on the Massachusetts Turnpike, and follow it past a chain of parks and forests all the way to Boston.

Best places to stop between Washington DC and Boston

When it comes to splitting up the trip from Washington DC to Boston, you'll find plenty of incredible options along the way, most of which are shared by both routes. With that said, certain resorts understandably stand out – here are some of them:

Spend an unforgettable night out in New York

New York is one of the kings of luxury accommodation in the States, so you'll find no shortage of incredible hotels here. If you want to sleep, wine, and dine in style, InterContinental New York Barclay Hotel has to be the single fanciest hotel in all of New York .

Featuring an amazing window view from some of the most luxurious suites you'll ever see, a night at this hotel will leave you feeling energized for a day of exploring. If you're feeling hungry, you can enjoy a meal at The Parlour, which features everything from American to continental cuisine.

If hours of outdoor activity aren't enough to tire you out, you can blow off some steam at the 24-hour fitness center, or better yet, take full advantage of the spa and wellness facilities to relax and ensure a peaceful night's sleep.

The cherry on top is the affordable price (by New York standards) and the hotel's proximity to various places of interest – Times Square, Central Park, and Rockefeller Center are all just a short walk away.

For more options and to learn more about the other areas in New York City where you can stay, please check our detailed guide below:

READ MORE - Our Area-by-Area Guide to NYC

Charge your batteries in the city of Boston

You'll often hear people referring to Boston as America's finest city, and that might just be true. Combining incredible architecture, amazing food, and an unforgettable view of the city, Revere Hotel Boston Common should be your hotel of choice during your stay .

The rooms here are immaculately put together, but chances are you'll be spending most of your time on the rooftop venue, stargazing with a refreshing cocktail from the bar.

Whichever way you turn, you'll find that every wall and corner is decorated with unique art that gives this place its one-of-a-kind ambient. Not many hotels can say they have a tank as a decorative piece in the dining area!

Revere Hotel is in Downtown Boston, so it offers great connectivity to the city's main hotspots and all the public transportation you could possibly need. Best of all, if you get a little lucky and visit during the right time of year, your stay could turn out reasonably cheap.

Things to see on a road trip from Washington DC to Boston

Ideally, you'll want to take a couple of weeks to do the road trip from Washington DC to Boston, regardless of which route you take. Although there's plenty of room for inland detours to some very scenic places, here are some examples of landmarks you have to check out:

• Baltimore – One of Maryland's crowning jewels is best known for its abundance of museums and the National Aquarium.
• Susquehanna State Park – The beautiful scenery coupled with the Susquehanna riverbank makes this the perfect area for recreational activities.
• Elk Neck State Park – This park features the historic Turkey Point Lighthouse, which is nearly 200 years old.
• White Clay Creek State Park – Featuring some of the most scenic hiking and biking trailheads in Delaware and beyond, this park is not to be missed.
• Wilmington – Delaware's largest city is renowned for its abundance of museums and art galleries.
• Philadelphia – A key location in the American Revolution and the place where the Declaration of Independence was signed, this is one of the most significant cities in the States.
• New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail – A beautiful sequence of coastal parks and forests that also passes by Atlantic City.
• Mercer County Park – A gorgeous park featuring a lake, an ice skating rink, and various sports fields.
• South Mountain Reservation – At higher altitudes, this reservation offers breathtaking views of New York and Jersey City.
• Liberty State Park – An iconic park boasting incredible views and more trails and open space than you'll know what to do with!
• New York City – One of the biggest metropolises in the world hardly needs any introduction.
• Wawayanda State Park – Featuring Wawayanda Lake and a chunk of the Appalachian Trail, this park is definitely worth a visit.
• Harriman State Park – As can be expected from one of New York's largest state parks, Harriman features numerous lakes, camping areas, and an abundance of hiking trails.
• Sherwood Island State Park – A standout in a long list of oceanside recreation areas, not too far from your main route.
• Overpeck County Park – 800 acres of beautiful terrain, perfect for a variety of outdoor activities.
• Purgatory Chasm State Reservation – A beautiful area featuring a unique granite chasm and an intricate cave system.

Best time to go on a road trip from Washington DC to Boston

You can genuinely do the road trip from Washington DC to Boston any time of year, although different months come with different benefits.

New England is very popular with visitors when it's warm, and although this is the case for Boston too, the congestion remains relatively constant year-round. This is due to the thriving student population, most of whom go home for the summer, just when tourists start coming in.

The allure of Boston's summers comes from its idyllic temperatures, which rarely exceed 80 degrees in mid-July. This is great news for anyone planning to capitalize on the beautiful Atlantic coast, Castle Island being a notable example.

The crowds start to die down in early September, and the temperatures hover just above 70 degrees Fahrenheit on most days, but since there are plenty of events and festivities in the fall, hotel prices stay high until November.

The biggest selling point of Boston in the fall would have to be the view of Freedom Trail - although the trail looks amazing in and of itself, the fall palette never fails to give it that extra flair.

Since accommodation tends to be fairly expensive in Boston, the best time for a budget trip would be either winter or spring. With that said, temperatures between December and March rarely exceed 50 or so degrees, making this a bad time for sightseeing if you mind the cold.

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The Open Road Travel

• May 19, 2022

Road Trip From Washington D.C. To Boston

Updated: Dec 5, 2022

A road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston takes you from the capital of the United States to one of its oldest cities.

A 440 mile road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston will take you through the states of Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts, past some of the most historic, iconic locations in the United States.

Read on to uncover all the highlights that await you on this incredible journey through the northeast United States.

A Road Trip From Washington D.C. To Boston: How Far Is It, How Long Will It Take To Get There & What Is The Best Route?

A road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston covers 440 miles (708 kilometres) and takes around 7 hours to complete. It is a relatively straightforward journey that passes through almost all of the most famous cities in the region.

You begin by joining the Capital Beltway at your nearest point and heading north to Exit 27, where you will continue north on the I-95. You’ll stay on this until you cross the George Washington Bridge and pass into New York City.

Once you’ve crossed the Alexander Hamilton Bridge and entered The Bronx, take Exit 1 C-D then Exit C to continue going north, this time on the I-87. At Exit 8, take I-287 east for 7 miles, then use Exit 9N to start heading north again, this time on the Hutchinson River Parkway.

After passing into Connecticut, you will find yourself on Connecticut Route 15. You’ll then remain on this for its 83.5-mile duration, before merging onto the I-84 in East Hartford.

Follow the I-84 to its conclusion in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, where you’ll merge onto the I-90, which takes you the remaining 60 miles, to your destination of Boston.

Best Time For A Road Trip From Washington D.C. To Boston

There are two periods that could be considered the best time for a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston. Which one you choose will depend on the purpose of your journey.

Late-April to the end June is the best choice for the majority of people, as it offers some of the best temperatures either your route or destination will see all year.

It is also when the city of Boston hosts perhaps its most famous event, the Boston Marathon, which is held on the 3rd Monday in April.

The other great option you have for a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston is in the build-up to Halloween, from mid to late October.

This is because our route passes near two of the best places to spend Halloween in the entire United States , Salem, Massachusetts and Sleepy Hollow, New York.

Best Places To Stop On A Road Trip From Washington D.C. To Boston

At 7 hours long, a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston could be completed in a single day by many people. However, most will want to break it up, to ensure they have plenty of time to relax and see all of the incredible sights that await them along the way.

While you have a number of fabulous options on this route, the following two choices are what we feel to be the best places to stop on a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston, as they offer the best combination of amenities and attractions, both in terms of quality and quantity.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Philadelphia is one of the oldest cities in the United States, as well as its 6th most populous.

Founded in 1682 by writer William Penn, it is filled with a number of the country’s most important historical attractions, many of which are located in Independence National Historical Park.

Throughout Independence National Historical Park, you will find sites such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the First Bank Of The United States. These sights hold incredible significance, as they were where both the Declaration Of Independence and American Constitution were adopted.

Affectionately nicknamed the “City Of Brotherly Love”, there is plenty besides history to entertain visitors as well.

With an abundance of entertainment, leisure, and sporting attractions, while being a major hub for a range of industries, such as transport, there is plenty for everyone on offer in Philly.

Best Hotel To Stay At In Philadelphia – Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia, An IHG Hotel

The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Philadelphia is a stunning, 4-star hotel, located right on the edge of Independence National Historical Park. A pet friendly hotel, it features the perfect combination of historical style and modern convenience.

All of the rooms boast exquisite décor, luxury furnishings, and stunning views, while amenities like a flat screen TV, well stocked minibar, hairdryer, and bathrobe help to complete the most comfortable experience possible. There is also Wi-Fi available throughout the property.

The Red Owl Tavern restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day, while brunch is offered on weekends. You also have the Stratus Rooftop Lounge, which serves handcrafted cocktails in an environment that features a cosy fireplace and a stunning view of the city and Liberty Bell.

Other facilities available at the property include business and fitness centres, a 24 hour front desk, an ATM, and complimentary bicycle rentals. Private on-site parking is also available for an extra fee.

New York City, New York

New York City is perhaps the most famous city in the world, as well as the most populous in the United States.

The amazing contrast of its iconic skyscrapers and famous locations to more natural beauty spots, such as Central Park and Coney Island, make it a city that has something for everyone.

Obvious attractions like the Empire State Building, Statue Of Liberty, Times Square, and Grand Central Station are must visit sites during your stay in New York. You can even take boat, bus, or helicopter tours to see and learn about them from a different perspective.

You then have some slightly lesser known gems to enjoy as well, ranging from the many museums and galleries dotted about the city, to its collection of legendary bridges and neighbourhoods , which all offer a perfect cultural stop and photo opportunity.

With countless 5-star hotels, designer stores, gourmet restaurants, and legendary sites, New York City is the perfect place to combine style, relaxation, and tourism in a single destination.

Best Hotel To Stay At In New York City – The Plaza

The Plaza is a legendary, 5-star hotel, situated on the southern edge of Central Park. The amazing views of the park on offer from both the communal areas, as well as many of the rooms, plus its location at the heart of Manhattan, make it the epitome of both comfort and convenience.

All of the exquisitely designed rooms are spacious and boast a range of amenities like iPads, flat screen TVs, rain showers, 24-karat gold plated fixtures, and Wi-Fi that is available throughout the hotel. This will ensure you remain entertained and connected for the duration of your stay.

The Plaza also features a collection of its own shops, restaurants, and bars, ensuring you never need for anything during your visit. There is even a gym, spa, and salon, so you have options whether you want to work out or be relaxed and pampered.

Film buffs will even enjoy the fact that The Plaza has been used as a shooting location in some major Hollywood films, such as the iconic Home Alone 2: Lost In New York.

Top Attractions On A Road Trip From Washington D.C. To Boston

With at least 7 hours driving on a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston, it is important to make plenty of stops along the way, to break up the driving and truly make the most of this beautiful, historic part of the country.

While the full range of attractions on offer is far too great to count, we will now take a look at what we feel are the top attractions on a road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston, to help you plan your perfect travel itinerary and truly get the most out of your trip.

Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore is the most populous city in Maryland, as well as the largest independent city in the entire United States. One of the nation’s most historically important transport hubs, The Port Of Baltimore is perhaps the first stop those interested in the city’s history should make.

Founded in 1706, it was essential for importing goods from Europe to the Americas in the early years of the U.S. and is still the country’s largest port specialising in passenger and cargo facilities. If that isn’t enough, you also have a number of other historic locations to explore.

There is the eastern terminus of the Baltimore And Ohio Railroad, the oldest in the country, having opened in 1830.

Then there is the location where “The Star-Spangled Banner” was written and a number of locations where important events during the Civil and Revolutionary wars took place.

Susquehanna State Park

Susquehanna State Park is set on the west bank of the longest river in the eastern United States, the Susquehanna River, which flows for 444 miles (715 kilometres), from Cooperstown, New York, to Havre De Grace, Maryland.

Throughout the park are trails, which provide breathtaking views of the river and the valleys that surround it. It is an incredibly popular destination for a host of activities, including biking, boating, camping, fishing, hiking, anSusd horse riding.

Susquehanna State Park even boasts a collection of historic sites as well.

The Rock Run Grist Mill and Carter-Archer Mansion are among the most historically important sites in the region for milling. Then there is the Steppingstone Museum, which features an incredible range of historic arts and crafts from the area.

Wilmington, Delaware

Delaware’s largest, most populous city, Wilmington was settled in 1638 on the site of the former Fort Christina, the oldest Swedish settlement in the U.S. Attractions like the Old Swedes Church offer an insight into this period unlike anything else you will find in America.

Wilmington is also a city synonymous with one of America’s richest families, the Du Pont Family.

Having risen to prominence in the 1700s, sites like the DuPont Building, DuPont Gunpowder Works, DuPont Family home, and Hagley Museum contain a range of artefacts, exhibits, and sites which demonstrate the family’s importance and evolution through the ages.

Newark, New Jersey

New Jersey’s most populous city, Newark is a part of the New York Metropolitan Area and a major transport hub, boasting air, rail, and sea terminals. It is most commonly visited by those coming to New York City, as there are often much better deals on transport to be had here.

However, while often overlooked, Newark has plenty of historic sites in its own right, as it is one of the oldest cities in the country, having been settled in 1666.

With options like the Cathedral Basilica Of The Sacred Heart, Mount Olive AME Church, Newark Museum Of Art, Jewish Museum Of New Jersey, Justice Sculpture, Branch Brook Park, and Dock Bridge, there are plenty of reasons to stop in Newark for people of all tastes and interests.

Sleepy Hollow, New York

Sleepy Hollow is a small town in the Hudson Valley that gained infamy as the main location in the Washington Irving horror novel “The Legend Of Sleepy Hollow”. Since then, it has developed a reputation as a popular destination for fans of horror and the supernatural.

Listed among America’s most haunted towns, Sleepy Hollow boasts a collection of creepy attractions dedicated to all things spooky and supernatural.

A great opportunity for fright fans, particularly near Halloween, Washington Irving is even buried here, making it a pilgrimage of sorts for his fans.

Hartford, Connecticut

Connecticut’s capital city and one of the oldest in the U.S., having been founded in 1635, Hartford is a city centred around history.

Locations like the United States’ oldest public park, public art museum, and continuously published newspaper are ideal for those interested in the growth of the nation. Other popular attractions in Hartford include the Connecticut State Capitol building.

Designed in a combination of Eastlake Movement, Renaissance Revival, and Victorian Gothic styles, and boasting a gold domed spire, it was built in the 1870s and is among of the most iconic capitols in the U.S.

You even have the Mark Twain House; a museum dedicated to the legendary writer’s life and works. Set in the house where he wrote many of his famous pieces, it is any literary fan’s dream destination.

A road trip from Washington D.C. to Boston is a fabulous journey across the north-eastern corner of the United States. With its historic towns and stunning landscapes, it is a dream trip for anyone interested in American history or nature.

You should now have a good idea of everything you will see along the way, from amazing attractions to places to make a longer stop. This should allow you to plan the perfect travel itinerary to ensure your own trip truly is the journey of your dreams.

All you have left is to plan when to take your trip and how long you are going to spend making it. That way, you can start getting everything booked and begin looking forward to experiencing everything you have read about for yourself, as soon as possible.

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20 Places To Visit On A Boston To Washington DC Road Trip

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

Explore the northeastern states of the USA on a Boston to Washington D.C. road trip. Solid driving can see you reach your destination in a little over seven hours of drive time, covering 440 miles (708.11 kilometres). This would mean missing out on some great cities, towns, national parks and other attractions along the way. Depending on your route, you could visit eight states, spend some time by the ocean, explore the mountains and absorb plenty of history. The route from Boston to Washington D.C. is historical in nature as you may pass through some of the most important sites in the USA.

Beginning in Boston, you will uncover the birthplace of the American Revolution and discover secrets about the first English Puritan settlers who landed there. Then step into historic Philadelphia, where the USA’s Founding Fathers met and wrote the U.S. Constitution. Finally, arrive in Washington D.C., the capital city of America and explore how these historic events shaped modern-day politics.

Your journey needn’t be fully steeped in history, however. Each city stop reveals culture, cuisine, beauty, nightlife and more. Each location is unique and you might add them to your future travel lists. Avoid the solid drive and take the scenic route. Here are 20 places to explore on your Boston to Washington D.C. road trip.

1- Boston, MA

2- cape cod, ma, 3- providence, ri, 4- worcester, ma, 5- old sturbridge village, ma, 6- springfield, ma, 7- stafford motor speedway, ct, 8- new york city, ny, 9- newark, nj, 10- allentown, nj, 11- trenton, nj, 12- atlantic city, nj, 13- philadelphia, pa, 14- wilmington, de, 15- susquehanna state park, md, 16- gettysburg, pa, 17- catoctin mountain park, md, 18- baltimore, md, 19- annapolis, md, 20- washington d.c., boston to washington dc.

• Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour – one of the coolest tours in Boston!
• New York CityPASS – save money and get access to several attractions.
• Best of Philadelphia Food Tour – Small-group walking tour.
• 2-Hour Gettysburg Battlefield Guided History Bus Tour – with a National Park Guide.
• Washington DC Monuments – Moonlight tour by trolley.

Begin your epic Boston to Washington D.C. road trip in Massachusetts’ state capital.

Boston is packed with history, arts, culture and sports so regardless of who you are travelling with, you will find something to enjoy together.

Book a Fenway Park tour to explore the home ground of the Boston Red Sox baseball team.

Fenway Park is a great place to uncover some baseball history in the oldest ballpark in the league.

Uncover Boston’s local history at the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum to learn about the Boston Tea Party through various interactive exhibits and exploring aboard restored tea ships.

If you are in Boston overnight , head to the Skywalk Observatory for incredible views over the glittering city lights.

Recommended tour: Boston Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour .

Cape Cod is typically a summer destination for travellers and holidaymakers however, visiting year-round is still a great way to explore this stretch of New England coastline.

There are many little towns in Cape Cod, all with stunning ocean views, great restaurants, and laid-back environments.

Explore Cape Cod National Seashore to immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the Atlantic Ocean while strolling along golden sandy beaches.

This stretch of coastline covers more than 40 miles (64.37 kilometres).

While in Cape Cod, try the seafood as its coastal location means seafood is always freshly caught.

Sample lobster bisque or try fried oysters.

Driving from Boston to Cape Cod covers 70 miles (112.65 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Recommended tour: Cape Cod Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour .

Cross into Rhode Island to explore the city of Providence, the state’s capital, which you can do on your own with this downtown self-driving audio tour .

Providence is a must-visit city for lovers of architecture. The city is filled with an eclectic blend of art deco, Victorian and modern buildings.

If art is more your thing, visit the RISD Museum of Art, which is packed with works of art from across the globe, including Japanese prints.

New artists’ work is often showcased here as the museum is attached to the Rhode Island School of Design.

Before departing, head to Federal Hill, the city’s Italian district. Here you will find delis with delicious treats such as freshly made mozzarella and soft and fruity panettone.

Driving from Cape Cod to Providence covers 76 miles (122.31 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Recommended tour: Providence Narrated Boat Tours .

Venture back into Massachusetts to explore Worcester, the second-largest city in the state, which is packed with exciting things to do on your road trip.

Browse the stalls at Crompton Collective, a boutique and antique marketplace.

Once you have had your fill of unique and unusual treasures, head to Canal District Farmers Market for a bite or to grab some snacks for the rest of your journey.

If you are visiting with children or love animals, visit Green Hill Park Farm. This free-to-enter farm is home to pigs, llamas and chickens. 

Driving from Providence to Worcester covers 39.3 miles (63.25 kilometres) and takes approximately 40 minutes.

Recommended tour: Let’s Roam’s Worcester Scavenger Hunt: Wiggle Round Worcester!

Step back in time at the living museum of Old Sturbridge Village and spend a few hours immersing yourself in history before continuing your road trip.

The museum recreates life in the 1830s through 40 historical buildings and costumed historians who bring the village to life.

Open to explore in the village is a blacksmith, shoe shop, bank, sawmill and, of course, homes.

Each building is appropriately furnished and decorated to reflect the time.

There are also many animals living in the village. As part of the village reflects a working farm, expect to see heritage breed cows, pigs and chickens.

Driving from Worcester to Old Sturbridge Village covers 21.8 miles (35 kilometres) and takes approximately 25 minutes.

Springfield is a must-visit stop to explore on your Boston to Washington D.C. road trip if you or a travelling companion are a basketball fan.

Springfield is known as the City of Firsts, and it was here that basketball was first invented.

Head to the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.

This museum honours James Naismith, a PE teacher who created the game of basketball, and legendary players, coaches and teams.

Within the Hall of Fame, expect to see interactive exhibits such as shooting games and memorabilia from basketball history.

Stop by the Dr Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden to relive childhood memories by reading the author’s famous books.

Five bronze sculptures within the garden reflect the author and some of his characters.

Driving from Old Sturbridge Village to Springfield covers 37.2 miles (59.86 kilometres) and takes approximately 40 minutes.

Recommended tour: Springfield Showdown Scavenger Hunt.

Stafford Motor Speedway makes for a great stopping destination on your road trip from Boston to Washington D.C., particularly if you arrive on a race day.

The track consists of a semi-banked oval track covering 0.5 miles (0.8 kilometres).

Stafford is the home of the SK Modified races, which feature heavily modified cars.

While Stafford is no longer part of NASCAR, it still shows adrenaline-fuelled races both in person and through a streaming service.

The race season runs from April to September, with most events on Fridays.

Driving from Springfield to Stafford Motor Speedway covers 21.1 miles (33.95 kilometres) and takes approximately 35 minutes.

You’ll need a few days to explore New York City.

This sprawling metropolis will certainly leave you wanting more than the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

Check out the incredible views over the New York City skyline at night and during the day and discover the stories of the millions of immigrants who arrived in the United States through this corridor.

Explore the beauty of New York from above and walk along The High Line ; the former section of the elevated railway has been transformed into a garden and pedestrian walkway.

While in New York, seek out some bagels ( you might enjoy this New York City bagel tour ).

A great New York bagel has a firm golden crust and a soft yet chewy centre. Order plain, with toppings, or packed with smoked salmon and cream cheese or pastrami.

Driving from Stafford Motor Speedway to New York City covers 143 miles (230.13 kilometres) and takes approximately 2 hours and 25 minutes.

Recommended tour: New York CityPASS .

Take a short drive from New York to explore the state of New Jersey, beginning with Newark.

Newark offers one of the best opportunities to see the full Manhattan skyline.

Visit Newark Riverfront Park for the perfect photo, particularly at night as the building’s lights are reflected over the Hudson River.

If you are visiting in the summer, sample some authentic Italian gelato at Nasto’s. This family-ran Gelateria has been open since 1939 and also serves the best tiramisu and tartufo.

Branch Brook Park is a great natural escape after exploring several cities.

It’s a great spot to take the time to relax and unwind as you stroll by the water’s edge or, if visiting in April, below the delicate pink cherry blossoms.

Driving from New York City to Newark covers 10.5 miles (16.89 kilometres) and takes approximately 25 minutes.

Allentown is the ideal location for a short stop on your road trip.

This quaint historical village is packed with stores, restaurants offering delicious lunches and dinners, and beautiful architecture.

Explore the town on foot taking in its history.

The town was a key strategic location during the Revolutionary War and the battle for the Delaware River.

Explore The Old Burial Ground, where many gravestones date back to this time.

Driving from Newark to Allentown covers 49.2 miles (79.17 kilometres) and takes approximately 50 minutes.

Trenton is New Jersey’s capital and a great destination to spend a day or two on your Boston to Miami road trip.

Pay a visit to the New Jersey Statehouse, designed by Jonathan Done in 1792.

When inside the statehouse, be sure to look up. The painted ceiling room features a staggering depiction of the history of New Jersey in incredibly intricate artistic detail.

Step back in time at the Old Barracks Museum, originally built to house British soldiers during the French and Indian war and later served as a military hospital.

It is the last remaining British barracks in the USA.

Driving from Allentown to Trenton covers 13.1 miles (21.08 kilometres) and takes approximately 15 minutes.

Round off your time in New Jersey by spending a couple of days in Atlantic City.

Well known for its casinos, the city also has inviting beaches and an excellent boardwalk.

The Boardwalk is a great place to start your time in Atlantic City. There are many shops and restaurants and unrivalled views across the ocean.

If you fancy a game of chance, head to Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa.

This golden-clad hotel has a casino floor packed with machines, table games and more to keep you entertained, while its hotel rooms all have floor-to-ceiling windows offering breathtaking views.

Driving from Trenton to Atlantic City covers 90.7 miles (145.96 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.

Explore the historical city of Philadelphia on a themed walking tour to absorb as much history and knowledge as possible.

Your guides take you to important historical sites and share some of the greatest tales in American history.

Pose for an Instagram photo by the LOVE sign, a popular typography-based sculpture designed by Robert Indiana and located in John F. Kennedy Plaza.

Join a food tour that will take you to Reading Terminal Market.

This marketplace is one of the oldest farmer’s markets in America. It is packed with stalls selling everything from fresh vegetables to piping hot dishes, including their famous hot roast pork sandwiches.

If you’re planning on staying over, here are some things to do in Philadelphia at night .

Driving from Atlantic City to Philadelphia covers 61.8 miles (99.45 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour.

Recommended tour: Philadelphia Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour .

Wilmington is a great place to spend a day on your road trip to Washington D.C.

A must-visit destination in Wilmington is the French chateau-style Nemours Mansion and Garden.

This sprawling abode was once the home of the DuPont Family. The rooms are richly decorated and attractively furnished.

If nature is more your cup of tea, visit the DuPont Environmental Education Centre.

The centre is surrounded by 200 acres of natural and undisturbed marshland and gardens.

The centre is free to visit and is a great destination for families, with interactive exhibits and many pathways leading around the grounds.

Driving from Philadelphia to Wilmington covers 31.1 miles (50.05 kilometres) and takes approximately 35 minutes.

Recommended tour: Half-Day E-Bike Tour of Wilmington’s History, Haunts & Breweries

Susquehanna State Park offers the ideal natural escape on your road trip.

Shut out the noise of the traffic or the bustle of the cities visited prior and immerse yourself in the woodlands.

The park runs alongside the Susquehanna River. It is formed of dense, thick forests filled with hiking and cycling trails.

There are also fishing piers and launches to access the river.

Camping is available with campsites kitted out with electricity and restroom facilities, all sporting hot running water.

Driving from Wilmington to Susquehanna State Park covers 40 miles (64.37 kilometres) and takes approximately 40 minutes.

Cross back into Pennsylvania to explore the historic city of Gettysburg, famous for the Gettysburg National Battlefield.

Head to the battlefield to explore either independently with the help of an interactive iPad tour or book one of their guide-led tours.

The battlefield is vast and is dotted with artefacts from the American Civil War, including cannons.

Keeping history at the forefront of your visit, venture into the city and visit some available period dining options.

Farnsworth House offers a Civil War-era atmosphere paired with unique dishes from the time.

Driving from Susquehanna State Park to Gettysburg covers 90.7 miles (145.96 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes.

Recommended tour: 2-Hour Gettysburg Battlefield Guided History Bus Tour with a National Park Guide

Another opportunity to explore nature on your road trip comes from Catoctin Mountain Park.

The mountain park has a visitor centre that provides maps, guidebooks and restroom facilities.

From here, venture out onto one of the park’s 25 miles (40.23 kilometres) of hiking trails.

The trails vary in difficulty allowing you to choose the best one for you and your travel companions.

If you fancy spending the night here, there are camping spots available and a number of historic wood cabins.

Driving from Gettysburg to Catoctin Mountain Park covers 23.7 miles (38.14 kilometres) and takes approximately 25 minutes.

Get back into the city and explore Baltimore, where an excellent restaurant scene is set among historical and modern buildings.

If art interests you, a must-visit spot in Baltimore is the Baltimore Museum of Art, which houses the world’s largest collection of Matisse paintings.

Crabs are a local delicacy in Baltimore, with the best being served at LP Steamers. This crab shack offers crab and other seafood steamed and flavoured to perfection.

For impressive views over the city, particularly at sunset, climb the 227 marble steps of the Washington Monument at Mount Vernon Place.

Driving from Catoctin Mountain Park to Baltimore covers 69.7 miles (112.17 kilometres) and takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.

Recommended tour: Signature Spirit of Baltimore Lunch Cruise with Buffet

Annapolis is the capital of Maryland and is filled with beautiful pastel buildings, 18th-century homes, and an excellent waterfront.

Annapolis is the home to the U.S. Naval Academy.

Its campus buildings are open to the public on guided tours.

Visit the iconic dome chapel to see the ornately decorated crypt of U.S. Navy father John Paul Jones.

For a unique breakfast experience, visit Chick & Ruth’s Delly.

If you visit at 8.30 am during the week or 9.30 am at weekends, enjoy your breakfast and join in with the daily Pledge of Allegiance.

Try their famous Delly potatoes that can be added to your breakfast dish.

Driving from Baltimore to Annapolis covers 32.4 miles (52.14 kilometres) and takes approximately 35 minutes.

End your road trip in U.S. capital, Washington D.C.. Washington D.C. is filled with political landmarks and history, however, there is so much more to the city.

For some tranquillity, visit Rock Creek Park.

This 1754-acre patch of green is a great place to get back to nature, with 32 miles (51.5 kilometres) of hiking trails to discover either with maps or on a guided tour.

Immerse yourself in modern art at the Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, which was built to house Joseph Hirshhorn’s large collection of 20th-century art and sculptures.

Look for Yoko Ono’s ‘A Wish Tree for Washington D.C.’ to tell your secrets.

Driving from Annapolis to Washington D.C. covers 31.9 miles (51.34 kilometres) and takes approximately 40 minutes. 

Recommended tour: Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley

Looking for a road trip? Here are some epic driving vacations.

• Canada Road Trip
• Driving The Icefields Parkway
• Andalucia Road Trip
• Queensland Road Trip
• Argentina Road Trip
• Tasmania Road Trip 
• Cambodia Road Trip
• Nashville to Memphis Drive
• Dallas to Austin Drive
• Houston to Miami Road Trip
• Boston to Miami Road Trip
• Boston to Washington DC Road Trip
• Boston to New York Road Trip
• Boston to San Francisco Road Trip
• Boston to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Miami to Atlanta Road Trip
• Las Vegas to Salt Lake City Road Trip
• San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
• San Francisco to Las Vegas Road Trip
• San Diego to San Francisco Road Trip
• Las Vegas to Zion National Park Drive
• San Francisco to Yosemite National Park Drive
• Chicago to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Seattle to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Phoenix to San Francisco Road Trip
• Vancouver to Seattle Road Trip
• Houston to Denver Road Trip
• Montreal to New York Road Trip
• Houston to Los Angeles Road Trip
• New York to San Francisco Road Trip
• Toronto to Vancouver Road Trip
• Houston to New Orleans Road Trip
• Tucson to Phoenix Road Trip

Plan Your Trip

Rent A Car – Find the best car rental rates at Discover Cars . They compare car hire companies to provide you with the best deal right now.

Find A Hotel – If you’re curious about this article and are looking for somewhere to stay, take a look at these amazing hotels .

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A note on the format of this guide: Because the East Coast is massive and we have already written separate guides on New England, New York City, and Florida, this article will often refer you to other sources too. In order to best understand the East Coast, it’s very advisable to read these separate articles alongside this guide.

East Coast USA Road Trips Costs

Where to stay on your east coast road trip, best east coast road trips, places to visit on the east coast, east coast road trip tips, apartments and hotels on the east coast, renting a car or campervan on the east coast, final thoughts on an east coast road trip.

It’s hard to say how much the average cost of a road trip up the East Coast will be because there are so many routes one could take, not to mention each state is more or less expensive.

Almost every expense associated with going on an East Coast driving trip, including gas, lodging, food, drink, and whatnot, will vary depending on the state which, again, makes costs difficult to gauge.

I can say with certainty, however, that going on a road trip along the East Coast–like traveling in the USA as a whole– will not be cheap. All of the aforementioned costs add up very quickly and can be a substantial burden on your wallet. This is especially true if you’re the type of traveler who doesn’t pay attention to their spending…

Luckily you have us; we’re always looking for ways to travel cheap and love sharing the best tricks with you, the readers. Even if we are unable to travel on $10/day like in our favorite countries, we can at least help you minimize expenses. Plus, there are plenty of East Coast budget adventures to be had.

A ballpark estimate for an East Coast road trip budget would be around $175-$225 . This covers food, lodging, a rental car, gas, and entertainment.

There are a couple of things that you need to be mindful of while driving in the USA :

• Gas will be your biggest expense as you’ll be traveling a lot; more than you’re probably expecting.
• Hotels and lodging will be very expensive in popular destinations e.g. New York City, Florida beach resorts, the national parks, etc.
• Food will cost more or less depending on how often you eat out and how much you cook for yourself.

Average Costs of an East Coast Road Trip

This breaks down exactly how much you can expect to spend while traversing the East Coast.

Rental Car: $30 – $100/day

RV Rental: $100 – $300/day

Gallon of Gas: $3.50 +

Cheap Airbnb: $80 – $100

Hotel room: $130 – $150

Hostel: $15 – $35

Campground: $0 – $50

Sandwich: $4 – $9

Beer at a bar : $4 – $8

Coffee: $2-$5

Attractions : $0-$20

Dinner for two: $25 – $75

Looking for specific accommodation recommendations? Here are some of the top places to stay on an East Coast road trip:

Best East Coast Mountain Getaway: Bear Ridge Lodge

The Bear Ridge Lodge in New Hampshire is the absolute PERFECT East Coast road trip stop. The beautiful, secluded log cabin has been featured in several magazines and boasts epic mountain views without any neighbors in sight. You can relax on the beautiful porch, use the stone fireplace as a nightcap, or start a hike anytime as miles of trails are right outside the door. The lodge can sleep up to 8 guests and is a 15-20 minute drive from restaurants and stores.

Best East Coast Oceanside Cottage: Island Beach Living

Located on Pass a Grille beach alongside Florida’s West Coast, this idyllic oceanside cottage is the perfect beach stop on your East Coast road trip. Peaceful, secluded and free from the perils of mass tourism that plague most of Florida’s beaches, this cottage is literally steps from the ocean, and comes with a cycle! You can also utilize the full kitchen, or if not, several restaurants and shops are also within walking distance. This beach cottage can host two guests, and also has an outdoor shower to wash off after a sandy day!

Best Airbnb in Boston: Historic Beacon Hill Apartment

This Boston Airbnb is the best in the city for several reasons. First off, it’s located in a historic brownstone and is just minutes from the T and just a bit longer to some of Boston’s most iconic attractions. The booking gives you the entire apartment, which was recently renovated and can accommodate up to 3 guests. The picturesque space is well maintained and even has a fully functioning kitchen if you want to save money on meals!

• Boston to Washington D.C – 7 days
• East Coast Historical Road Trip – 14 days
• Ultimate East Coast Road Trip – 21 days

Below is a list of suggested itineraries for driving the East Coast of America. Varying from 7 days to 21 days in length, they cover many of the East Coast’s top attractions.

Each itinerary provides day-by-day highlights, which are meant to give you some good East Coast road trip ideas.

The USA is  blisteringly beautiful. It’s also blisteringly expensive! Visiting two national parks in day can run you $70+ in entry fees.

Orrrr… you kick those entry fees to the curb, buy an annual ‘America the Beautiful Pass’ for $79.99,  and get unlimited access to ALL 2000+ federally managed sites in the States totally FREE!

You do the math. 😉

Boston to Washington D.C – 1-Week East Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary

This is a great East Coast road trip if you only have 7 days, and you want to explore some of the USA’s best and most historic cities: Boston, New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C.

With 7 days you can see each of these cities’ highlights and best cultural attractions, and camp one night in Shenandoah National Park.

• Boston’s Freedom Trail
• Fenway Park Walking Tour and Game
• Exploring Manhattan and Brooklyn
• Philly’s Liberty Bell
• The Lincoln Memorial
• White House
• Shenandoah NP and the Blue Mountains

Hyatt Regency Boston

Freehand New York

Hotel Baron (D.C.)

• Boston – Sam Adams Brewery
• Brooklyn – Brooklyn Brewery, Smorgasburg
• Philadelphia – Monk’s Cafe, Evil Genius, Yards, Love City, and Crime and Punishment for a good brew. Northern Liberties neighborhood, and Steve’s Prince of Steaks for… cheesesteak.
• Washington D.C. – Adams Morgan and The Shaw for nightlife.

Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park

• Governor’s Ball (June in NY)
• Tribeca Film Festival (NY)
• Philly Beer Festival (February)
• By the People Art Festival (Washington D.C in June)

Things to Do in 7 Days on the East Coast

• See the highlights of Boston
• Watch a game at Fenway Park
• Walk along the Freedom Trail
• Explore the Boston Commons
• Go on a Little Italy food tour
• Hit the food markets in NY
• Eat and go out in SoHo and Chelsea
• Walk the Highline
• Cycle in Central Park
• Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Get some views from the top of the Empire State Building
• Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
• Explore Brooklyn’s nightlife
• Eat some NY pizza .
• Walk around historic Philadelphia including Liberty Bell and Independence Hall
• The Betsy Ross House
• Visit the Museum of the American Revolution .

Explore the historical sites of Washington D.C.:

• Lincoln Memorial
• Washington Monument
• Capitol Hill
• The Smithsonian Museum
• The White House

PLUS take a scenic drive in the beautiful Shenandoah National Park and camp in the woods.

Many of the activities on this itinerary are great for history buffs and learning about the East Coast’s culture.

Historical Route from Boston to Savannah – 2-Week East Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary

With an extra week, you can really explore the East Coast’s most significant historical and cultural attractions. Any history buffs will love this East Coast itinerary as it will start with you exploring Boston and end all the way down to Savannah, Georgia, exploring some of the country’s most significant attractions along the way.

Along the way, you’ll pass through NYC, New Jersey, Philadelphia and the Gettysburg, D.C, Williamsburg + Fort Raleigh, and the must-visit Charleston.

• Plymoth Plantation
• Fort Raleigh
• Roanoke Island
• Myrtle Beach
• Apple Hostels of Philadelphia
• ARC THE HOTEL Washington DC
• Charleston – The Obstinate Daughter, Lewis Barbecue, and Bangkok Lounge for drinks and karaoke.
• Savannah – The Grey and Fox and Fig
• Scenic route on the Carolina coast to Savannah
• The entire Blue Ridge Parkway
• Savannah Music Festival (March)
• MOJA Arts Festival (Charleston)

Things to Do in 14 Days on the East Coast

Here are some of the best things to do in 2 weeks on the East Coast!

• Visit Bunker Hill
• Spend a day at Plimoth Plantation
• Visit the New-York Historical Society
• And the 9/11 Memorial and Museum
• Spend a day at Battery Park
• Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
• National Museum for African American History
• National Gallery of Art

Visit Colonial Williamsburg and the first English settlement

PLUS stop by Wilmington or Myrtle Beach, visit the plantations outside Charleston, and walk the cobblestone streets of Savannah.

Ultimate East Coast USA Road Trip – 3-Week Itinerary

This is the  ultimate 3 week East Coast itinerary. While the previous itinerary focuses on cities and historical sites, this itinerary also leaves plenty of room to discover this side of the coast’s best beaches, hikes, and parks.

Unlike the previous routes, we’ll be starting in Maine, one of the United States’ gems. If you like good seafood and great beer, you’re going to love Maine.

Next, you’ll continue down the East Coast in a similar fashion as itinerary #2, but will also visit Acadia National Park (in Maine) Shenandoah National Park, Asheville, and the Smoky Mountains.

This is the best itinerary for you if you want to explore some of the country’s most beautiful forests and beaches as well as the most eccentric concrete jungles. Make sure to check out some awesome bed and breakfasts in Maine along the way.

• Acadia National Park
• Aloft Miami Brickell (Miami)
• Generator Hostel (Miami)
• Scenic route on the Carolina Coast to Savannah
• Blue Ridge Parkway
• Florida Keys highway
• Asheville Wine & Food Festival (August),
• Brewgrass in Asheville (October)
• Daytona 500 (February)
• Ultra Miami Music Festival (March)

Things to Do in 21 Days on the East Coast

• Grab a lobster roll in Portland Maine and explore the craft brew scene.
• Watch the sunrise in Acadia National Park before anyone else in the US.
• Stop by Camden Hills State Park on your way to Boston to gawk at some quintessential New England coastline.
• Explore some of the country’s most famous campuses like MIT and Harvard in Cambridge.
• Outside of Boston, visit Walden Pond where Henry David Thoreau lived.
• Visit NYC’s best landmarks and neighborhoods.
• Eat yourself full in Queens.
• Visit all of Philadelphia’s historical landmarks.
• Explore Washington D.C’s National Mall.
• Visit some of the country’s best museums like the Smithsonian.
• Drive along the Skyline Drive in Shenandoah.
• Camp in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
• Visit the hipster town of Asheville and Biltmore Estate.
• Explore the Charleston plantations and Carolina coastline
• Check out the Savannah Historical Center.
• Driving through Florida: Amelia Island, Castillo de San Marcos, Daytona Beach, and every beach in between.
• Hang out at on the beaches of Clearwater.
• Explore the historic city of St. Augustine.
• Take a boat ride in the Everglades.
• Explore Wynwood, stay on Miami Beach, and admire Brickell’s galleries.
• Shopping in Miami.
• Hit the town at night too; this is one of the best places to party in the USA..

PLUS, for more nature, visit Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park and take a  Key West road trip to the Florida Keys, where you can check out places like Bahia Honda State Park, Key Largo, the southernmost point of the US and, of course, the legendary Key West itself.

Below is a list of the best road trip destinations on the East Coast. Study them well and decide which ones you like the most.

New England Road Trip

New England is often considered the cradle of American society because of its role in the early colonial days. Many of America’s original colonies were founded here but much of their remnants still remain. It’s one of the most quaint places to visit in the United States .

Those on a road trip on the Northeast Coast of the USA will find a treasure trove of historical sites, not to mention amazing coastal scenery, hearty food, and memorable locals too.

New England is a large region that is composed of 6 different states: Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine, so in this section, we’re only going to be able to highlight the best of New England.

Staying in Boston is guaranteed to be a good time. It’s one of the best cities on the East Coast and it’s a truly awesome place to explore.

When in Boston, be sure to check popular local attractions like Fenway Park, Boston Commons, Trinity Church, and Uptown. Try attending a sports match, which is like church for Bostonians, and be sure to grab a drink in a local New England pub. I also HIGHLY recommend staying in Cape Cod for a few days if you get the chance.

The rest of New England is defined by pastoral villages, rugged coastline, and expansive woods. A bed and breakfast in Vermont is the perfect place to unwind in lush, mountainous greenery while famous coastal destinations like Acadia National Park, and the Connecticut Coastline are unlike any other beaches in the USA.

There are a ton of awesome bed and breakfasts in Connecticut where you can stay in a historical building and enjoy that welcoming East Coast hospitality.

Also consider driving through the New England countryside, particularly around the Litchfield Hills, Mohawk Trail, and the White Mountains. If you’re on an East Coast road trip during the autumn, you’ll be treated with the magnificent fall foliage that New England is so famous for.

New York Road Trip

New York, New York. It is the very symbol of the USA and probably its most well-known city. It is a bewildering busy place with an insane amount of people, who bounce around the city like atoms in a nuclear reactor. New Yorkers like to say that if they can make it in this city, then they can make it anywhere because where else could they feel so alive?

Traveling in New York City shouldn’t be taken lightly–the city is an absolutely enormous place that has more districts than one can count. It would take a lifetime to explore all of NYC’s neighborhoods – and I’m about to explain New York in the course of around 300 words. If you think this is a vastly underwhelming number, then we agree.

NYC is one of those places that’s absolutely worth spending some time in– staying in NYC is quite the experience!

New York is one of the greatest economic engines on the entire planet. This city churns out more money than most countries. Its skyline, which is one of the most recognizable in the world, is a representative of the city’s financial success. At the same time, New Yorkers, reaping the benefits of the economy, like to celebrate after a paycheck, often.

Hotels and Airbnbs are often expensive in and around the Big Apple, but elsewhere in the state you can look at staying in New York motels which are designed for road trippers!

As for gastronomy, people love to eat and drink in NYC. This city hosts one of the craziest nightlives in the world and more world-class restaurants than I can bother to imagine. Meeting up with friends after a hard day’s work or just visiting a local attraction like the MET, One World Trade Center or Central Park , is undoubtedly the top thing to do in New York.

There’s more to New York than just the city. Be sure to visit the oft-forgotten Upstate New York. Niagara Falls , the Hudson Valley , Catskills , and the picturesque stays in the Adirondacks should all be included on a road trip from New York.

New Jersey Road Trip

New Jersey is often seen as the butt-end of New York City – a state that only serves as a giant suburb for New Yorkers who want to settle down but still be close to the city. While its close proximity to the top places in NYC is certainly a boon – you can literally see Manhattan across the Hudson in New Jersey – it’s much more than New York’s backyard.

New Jersey has a lot to offer those on a road trip down the East Coast USA, including mountains, some of the best beaches in the Northeast, and lots of agrotourism opportunities. In fact, a bed and breakfast in New Jersey is so much cheaper than staying in the Big Apple, that many tourists visiting New York opt to stay in Jersey City/Newark and commute in.

The greatest density of people in New Jersey is in Jersey City/Newark , which, to little surprise, is right next to New York City. These places are often used as a cheaper base for exploring the city but are worthy of seeing as well.

As for what to do in Jersey City , you can eat and drink just as well as in NYC and, best of all, enjoy the best views of skyline without having to deal with the massive crowds. Newark has an excellent selection of museums and art galleries.

Most who visit New Jersey head straight for the beaches, which are very fine. Atlantic City , infamous for its gangsters and casinos, is the most visited coastal city in New Jersey and arguably the most famous resort town on the East Coast. Though many come here for more carnal reasons, Atlantic City still benefits from some gorgeous beaches and surfing opportunities.

Other popular beach getaways include Belmar, Asbury Park , the Wildwoods , and Sandy Hook . You can also opt to stay on Cape May for a truly spectacular Jersey seaside experience.

Few people realize that New Jersey has mountains! The Kittatinny Mountains , a subsection of the Appalachians, run along the western edge of the state and offers many hiking trails. Further south is the expansive Pine Barrens , which is great for camping and berry picking.

Pennsylvania Road Trip

Pennsylvania is one of the most historically significant states in the entire USA. The state has been the theater for many of America’s most important revolutionary events and has also been the birthplace of many of its greatest industries.

Coal, steel, mining, and even Amish woodworking are among Pennsylvania’s proudest exports and each of these paint a clear picture of what the state is today. A road trip through Pennsylvania will be an excellent insight into middle American life, both old and new.

You can’t pass through the state without visiting Philadelphia , which is one of the most historical cities in the USA. Philadelphia’s most important landmarks include the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall , the latter of which is where the Declaration of Independence was signed.

Philadelphia also hosts a wide variety of museums and historic sites that are some of the finest on the East Coast. Most famous is the Philadelphia Museum of Art , which, aside from having an excellent collection, also hosts the steps that Rocky Balboa trained on.

The rest of Pennsylvania is mostly rural. Much of Pennsylvania’s natural splendor is found here, and it’s particularly beautiful if you stay around the Poconos , Lake Eerie, and the Laurel Highlands . Famously, the Amish also live in the Pennsylvania countryside, mostly around Lancaster .

If you make it as far as Pittsburgh in the western portion of Pennsylvania, you’ll be rewarded. Pittsburgh was once the steel capital of the USA and, though it had a couple of rough years, is now becoming one of the coolest East Coast cities. There are plenty of great places to stay in Pittsburgh too.

Maryland and Delaware Road Trip

Maryland and Delaware are two of more historically significant states in the country. Much of their two histories are defined by the vital Chesapeake Bay , which served as an extremely important waterway during colonial days.

Nowadays, Maryland and Delaware are pretty quiet and mostly act as residences for rich folk from DC. The states still benefit from being located next to the Chesapeake – the seafood here is some of the best on the East Coast and there are lots of little coastal haunts worth checking out. These, in addition to the many historical attractions, make both states worth seeing.

Baltimore , Maryland is the largest city in the region and hosts the densest collection of attractions. Staying in Baltimore , made famous for its criminal elements thanks to The Wire , is not nearly as dangerous as it used to be and is actually one of the most desirable cities on the East Coast.

It has several interesting neighborhoods -like eclectic Fell’s Point , vibrant Hampden , and the artsy, somewhat ritzy Midtown – that make Baltimore worth visiting. Visit these areas and be sure to grab a famous Blue Crab around the Inner Harbor .

East of Baltimore is the Chesapeake Bay and the Delmarva Peninsula, which is where you’ll find most the region’s coastal charm. The Delmarva is shared by both Maryland and Delaware. Interestingly, the peninsula is culturally unique from the rest of the Atlantic states in that it identifies more with the South for both historical and geographic reasons. You’ll find many awesome cabins in Maryland to make a pit stop in these coastal towns.

Delaware is a very small state situated almost entirely on the Delmarva Peninsula . Almost all of the state’s attractions are found in Wilmington and on the coast.

Although it’s the largest city in Delaware, there isn’t a whole lot to do in Wilmington aside from maybe visiting nearby Brandywine Country . The Delaware Coast at least has some nice beaches. Noteworthy Delaware beaches include Rehoboth Beach and Bethany Beach .

You can also check out some of the cool best bed and breakfasts in Delaware , many of which are ideally located close to the beach!

Washington DC Road Trip

Washington DC is the glorious yet under-privileged nation’s capitol. It’s a perfect example of American exceptionalism and, at the same time, economic stratification. At the end of the day, staying in Washington DC is one of the best cities on the East Coast to visit, if not for its sheer beauty then for its relevant social dynamics.

Few can argue against how gorgeous the city of Washington DC is. The city itself is the product of a city planning movement that was meant to represent a new age in America. As such, Washington DC is designed to be a very modern metropolis with perfect gridwork and several large areas designated for monuments.

Most of DC’s top things to do monuments are located in or near the Mall District – a 2-mile long park that runs through the center of the city.

Most of the city’s greatest landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument , the Smithsonian Museum , and the White House are located in this park. The Mall District is certainly one of the must-see places on any East Coast road trip route and makes for a very lovely day of walking.

On the edges of the Mall are the rest of Washington DC’s most iconic places . North is Adams Morgan and The Shaw , which is where you’ll find much of the city’s surprisingly active nightlife.

East is Capitol Hill where most of the United States’ politics are done. South is the gorgeous Jefferson Memorial and, across the Potomac River, the hallowed Arlington Cemetery .

One should definitely add the outskirts of the city to their Washington DC itinerary to experience a “realer” side of the capital, where gentrification is in full effect. Much of DC’s satellite neighborhoods, where most natural-born residents are from, were socially neglected in the 90s.

Nowadays, these districts are being renovated aggressively and, in the process, are losing their identity. Visit H Street, Columbia Heights , and the Near Northeast for a taste of the new DC, both the good and bad of it.

Virginia Road Trip

Virginia is a transition state where Southern culture begins to take hold. As the former capital of the US Confederacy during the Civil War, the state is certainly not lacking its historical landmarks.

Virginia also has some of the finest scenery in the Eastern United States–you’ll even find cool wonders like the Natural Bridge State Park. Those on a road trip down the East Coast will be both delighted and captured by Virginia’s beautiful cabins that give a full dose of nature.

Richmond is the capital of Virginia. It’s a very old and historically significant city that has been around since the Colonial days. Much of its original architecture was destroyed in a great fire that occurred after the Confederates fled the city but, regardless, Richmond is still full of history and pride.

Virginia Airbnbs are plentiful in Richmond and beyond–do try them out for a more local, residential feel.

Richmond is a fairly spread-out urban area with several neighborhoods. Strewn sparsely among them are several museums dedicated to everything from poetry to historic landmarks. Aside from these, Richmond is also an arc for art and music and there are several clubs spread throughout the city.

The Virginia Coastline is where you’ll find the largest population in Virginia in addition to the usual beachside resorts. Here you’ll find Virginia Beach, Chesapeake , and Norfolk , which sort of combine to form their own metropolitan area. This part of Virginia has lots of excellent beaches to lay on but most of them are family-oriented. Staying in Virginia Beach is a great choice if you want to relax for a bit.

The interior of Virginia is mountainous and is home to a couple of beautiful national parks, like Shenandoah . Many people visit Virginia to see these parks and make road trips on the gorgeous Skyline Drive .

There are many quaint bed and breakfasts in Virginia that offer an authentic experience and are usually in renovated historical buildings. I highly recommend checking one out and experiencing that warming East Coast hospitality.

You can navigate this route all the way to the Great Smoky Mountains if you want, and can take a break at any time to go on hikes or to visit local landmarks. The Natural Bridge and the town of Winchester are good stops.

Consider taking part in the Brew Ridge Trail , which is one of the best East Coast brewery road trips!

North Carolina Road Trip

If there were one Mid-Atlantic state that offered the most, then it would probably be North Carolina . North Carolina has beaches, interesting cities, awesome mountains, and, of course, plenty of southern charm.

There are several urban centers in North Carolina. Charlotte is the largest city in the state and is becoming increasingly hip each and every day with more and more things to do . There are many cool Charlotte Airbnbs to choose from for your stay.

It’s a working man’s city with a booming economy and growing entertainment district that will soon be the next Southern jewel. It is, admittedly at the moment, still a bit dull compared to some other East Coast cities though. But you can find some cool and trendy North Carolina Airbnbs to enjoy your road trip stop at–for a much better rate than New England, that’s for sure.

Raleigh and the surrounding communes of Chapel Hill and Durham are much more fun. These cities are home to several universities, including the popular North Carolin State University and Duke , which means that there are lots of young people looking to have a good time.

The cities themselves are often ranked as being some of the most livable in the country and so make for great East Coast road trip stops.

The North Carolina Coast is awesome, filled with white sandy beaches and some of the best destinations for an East Coast road trip. Here you’ll find the extremely historical Roanoke Island as well as Kitty Hawk aka the birthplace of modern aviation. Some of the best beaches in North Carolina are Holden, Carova, Carolina, and Corolla .

North Carolina’s greatest treasure may be the fabled Great Smoky Mountains , which is home to some fantastic hiking trails. Cloaked in mist and legends of bootleggers, the Smokies are one of the most storied parts of the USA and, consequently, the most visited national park as well.

Be sure to stay in Asheville while in the Smokies, which is hands down one of the best East Coast cities to visit. Asheville has an amazing art and beer scene, and is often compared to eccentric places like Austin, Texas and Portland, Oregon. The grand Biltmore Estate is also near Asheville.

Charleston to Savannah Road Trip

Charleston (South Carolina) and Savannah (Georgia) are two cities that are fighting for your attention! Like squabbling children who want mommy to listen to them, these two cities have been in a fierce competition for generations. Visiting both of these cities will definitely be a highlight on your East Coast USA road trip.

Charleston is often considered to be the quainter and more intimate alternative to Savannah. It’s a small city that hosts some of the most well-preserved Southern architecture in the region. The French Quarter, Magnolia Plantation, Rainbow Row , and Boone Hall are all wonderful examples. A night in Charleston should definitely be prioritized, as should the epic Charleston City Market.

Savannah, on the other hand, is often seen as the larger and more charged of the two cities. As the birthplace of Georgia and a vital economic center for the South, a stay in Savannah has become much grander and, some locals would argue, more fun than Charleston.

Though Savannah lacks some of the singularly amazing landmarks that Charleston has, it still has that classy Antebellum style that we love about the South.

Savannah’s Historic Quarter is one of the largest in the USA and is most well-known for its gorgeous cobblestone streets and large public squares. Forsyth Park is a fantastic place to spend some time in, and there are also a lot of historic Georgia vacation rentals you can spend your trip in. Taking a walking tour in Savannah is arguably one of the best things to do on an East Coast road trip.

In the end, there are too many intangibles when it comes to Charleston and Savannah. The best way to experience these cities is just to visit them and compare the two yourself. Note how each prepares local Southern food and how each has worked to preserve their respective images.

Both the states of South Carolina and Georgia are much bigger than Charleston and Savannah. There are also lots of things to do in Myrtle Beach with kids. Consider visiting this beach resort town in South Carolina for your family getaway. Alternatively, head to Kiawah Island for an ocean escape.

A ways inland is Atlanta , which is the largest city in Georgia and arguably the cultural capital of the Deep South.

Florida Road Trip

Welcome to Florida ! Home to amazing tropical beaches, abundant sunshine, and most of the East Coast’s retirees. If you’ve been craving some Vitamin C and some delicious Latin food, you should be very excited to visit Florida.

If you’ve made the arduous road trip from Maine to Florida, congratulations – your beach chair and pina colada are waiting for you.

Florida is a gorgeous state with a shit ton of attractions and cities to visit. Staying in Florida is sure to be one hell of an experience. There isn’t another state quite like it, for better or for worse.

In order to better understand the Sunshine state, we highly recommend you read it.

The first place most people think when they hear Florida is Miami. (Cue corny Will Smith song.) Though much of what you hear about Miami is true – it’s glamorous, full of amazing beaches, and sometimes a shitshow – there’s a lot more to it.

Visiting Miami also means getting to experience an amazing art scene, which is best experienced in the Design District, Wynwood , and Midtown neighborhoods.

Thanks to its enormous immigrant population, Miami also has some most authentic Latin and Caribbean communes outside of their respective regions. Be sure to visit Little Havana and Little Haiti for the amazing cultures and food.

While Miami is safe for tourists, avoiding the neighborhoods of Overtown, Liberty City, and Opa Locka are musts. Luckily, there’s nothing for travelers to do in those places anyway.

The rest of Florida is defined mostly by endless stretches of beach, swamps, and Southern hospitality. The Everglades are one of the most important wetlands in the nation and are an impressive natural wonder.

Stunning beaches are a dime a dozen in Florida though the ones around the Emerald Coast, Tampa Bay, Florida Keys, and Atlantic Coast are particularly great (and yes, that’s just about everywhere.)

The only thing more numerous than beaches in Florida is Southern folk. Contrary to popular belief, only the area around Miami is predominately Latin – Central and Northern Florida are more similar to the Deep South. Expect lots of BBQ, fried gator, and charm. Places to stay in St. Augustine still have much of their Spanish colonial history and make great places to stay for a rest stop.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Off The Beaten Path East Coast Road Trip Ideas

Want to expand your road trip on the East Coast? Try connecting it with one of these other regions! They’re a bit off the beaten path but are worth visiting.

Why not just continue all the way into the Great White North for some good Canadian fun, eh?! With lovely people, hugely fun cities, and some of the most beautiful landscapes in North America, it’s no surprise that visiting Canada tops many’s bucketlist.

Visit the likes of Montreal , Toronto , Nova Scotia , and Newfoundland to experience some of the best of Canada.

2. Appalachia

The Appalachian Mountains are the greatest mountain chain on the East Coast, which separates it from the Midwestern and Great Plains regions. It is a relatively isolated place that, over the years, has developed its own distinct culture and identity. Renting a cabin in West Virginia will give you a real look into Appalachian life, which is notably different from most other US states.

Tennessee and Kentucky, though Southern leaning, are arguably a part of this region. There is no better way to experience the Appalachians than the epic Appalachian Trail, which traverses a staggering 2,200 miles and takes over 6 months to complete.

Perhaps you’re the type who likes frigid weather and lots of dairy products? Make a detour to the Midwest then for a chance to experience some of the warmest hospitality in the country.

Surrounding the Great Lakes are welcoming states like Michigan and its up-and-coming capital Detroit, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Illinois that have been the subject of much love and ridicule (because of those funny accents). The Midwest hosts a number of cool cities–you cant go wrong with a visit to Chicago or Minneapolis.

4. Deep South

If you’re looking for pleasant winter weather and a chance to experience more Southern comfort, why not head further inland into the Deep South to Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. If you drive through Alabama, check out some of the cool and unusual hotels in Birmingham and stay for a few extra days to sample some of the real staples of Southern living.

Larger cities are quite cosmopolitan–you can’t drive through the region without visiting New Orleans ! On the other hand, states like Mississippi and Alabama are where things just get plain weird.

Historical East Coast Road Trip Attractions

Want to travel through America’s history? Then stop by one of these many historical East Coast road trip attractions to learn more about how the US was made!

• Bunker Hill (Charlestown, Massachusetts) – Site of one of the earliest and most important battles in the American Revolutionary War. A granite obelisk now stands at this location. One of the first monuments erected in the USA.
• Plimoth Plantation (Plymouth, Massachusetts) – An open-air museum located on grounds of the former Plymouth Colony. Attempts to recreate life as the settling English pilgrims experienced it.
• Gettysburg (Pennsylvania) – Battleground for the largest battle of the American Civil War. Gettysburg was a decisive victory for the Union and it proved to be a turning point in the conflict. A sobering cemetery and military park are the only remains of the fight.
• Mt Vernon (Alexandria, Virginia) – Former home and plantation of the USA’s first president, George Washington. Open 365 days per year as ordained by the president himself.
• Colonial Williamsburg (Virginia) – A section of modern Williamsburg that was preserved in order to appear like an original colonial settlement. Includes American colonial buildings, educational tours, and actors dressed in anachronistic apparel.
• Biltmore Estate (North Carolina) – An enormous mansion built by the Vanderbilts, one of the foremost tycoon families of the American Gilded Age. Still owned by the Vanderbilts and still the largest private dwelling in the USA.
• Fort Raleigh (North Carolina) – The preserved remains of the Roanoke Colony, the first-ever English settlement in the USA. Shrouded in mystery as the residents famously disappeared after they lost contact with the crown.
• St. Augustine (Florida) – A modern-day city that actually has some of the most significant Spanish colonial architecture in the country. The impressive Castillo de San Marcos is the grandest and most popular attraction in the town.

National Parks on the East Coast

The national parks are among the must see places on the East Coast as they offer some of the most spectacular scenery in the region. Consider stopping by one of the following parks…

• Acadia (Maine) – A jewel of the Northeastern coastline. Features some of the best and most rugged coastal scenery in the United States. Great beaches, great fall foliage, and great attractions for a road trip up the East Coast. For easy access to the national park, we recommend staying in Bar Harbor as it’s one of the nearest towns.
• Shenandoah (Virginia) – A slim national park that is mostly visited by those making the superlative Skyline Drive. Mountainous scenery that bursts into color during the autumn. Lots of hidden vistas and waterfalls available to hikers.
• Great Smoky Mountains (North Carolina) – One of the best places on the East Coast, though it’s actually a bit far from the ocean. Spending time in the Great Smoky Range means visiting the highest mountain chain in the entire Eastern USA. One of the most ecologically diverse places in the USA and officially the most visited national park in the country. The “smokey” title comes from the frequent fog that likes to hang around the mountains.
• Congaree (South Carolina) – A very large and well-preserved tract of hardwood forest that hosts some of the largest trees on the East Coast of the USA. It floods regularly, which brings in huge amounts of nutrients for local ecosystems. Overall, a very ecologically diverse park.
• Everglades (Florida) – Massive wetlands that are one of the most important natural habitats in the USA make Everglades National Park a must see. Features endless groves, glades, and inlets that hide several threatened species including the Florida panther, manatee, and the American crocodile. Usually explored by airboat or on foot via several trails.
• Dry Tortugas (Florida) – A small chain of keys that hosts the astounding Fort Jefferson, which is the largest brick masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere. Being a part of the iconic Florida Keys , Dry Tortugas also has excellent diving opportunities and that beautiful Caribbean water. Can only be reached by boat.
• Biscayne (Florida) – A offshore park that shelters an enormous amount of aquatic life. A very popular place among divers and fishers. 90% of the park is located in the ocean so camping and hiking opportunities are pretty limited.

East Coast Scenic Drives

Choose any one of these scenic routes listed below to gain more East Coast road trip ideas! Each one features more of the best places on the East Coast to visit.

• Blue Ridge Parkway (Virginia/North Carolina) – The most scenic road trip on the East Coast. A very long road that traverses the Blue Ridge Mountains and connects Shenandoah with the Great Smoky Mountains.
• Skyline Drive (Virginia) – A road that runs the length of Shenandoah National Park, which is arguably the most popular destination in the park. Offers breathtaking views of the mountains and also provides access to several hiking trails, including the ACT. Connects with the Blue Ridge Parkway in the south.
• Kancamagus Highway (New Hampshire) – A spectacular East Coast road trip route through the White Mountains. Most popular during the fall when the mountains explode with autumn color. Several campgrounds and viewpoints are found along the 35-mile stretch.
• Florida A1A (Florida) – A highway that runs the entire length of Florida’s Atlantic Coast. The route hugs the entire coastline to Miami and affords amazing views of the ocean. Also includes the Florida Keys Scenic Byway, which is arguably one of the most beautiful roads in the USA.
• Acadia National Byway (Maine) – Ring road that offers the best sights of Acadia National Park . Most of the park’s top attractions can be reached via the byway including Sandy Beach and Jordan Ponds. Popular in fall when the trees are changing colors as well.
• Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad (Maryland) – A historical East Coast road trip route that follows the trail of the Underground Railroad – one of the most important escape routes for African slaves during the Civil War. Along the way, you’ll visit many museums, churches, and former residences that educate you about the railroad. Not very scenic but very humbling. Baltimore is a very cool city if you fancy hanging out a few days.

A few insider tips to help your East Coast Road trip go just a lil’ bit smoother!

Getting Insured

Do you need Travel Insurance for your trip? Even if you’re only going for a few days, that’s more than enough time to get smote by wrathful angels. Have fun on your road trip, but take it from us, overseas medical care and canceled flights can be seriously expensive – insurance can, therefore, be a life-saver.

Travel mishaps can and do happen and it is well worth thinking about insurance before you leave home.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Top Tips for Broke Backpackers

Below is a list of East Coast road trip ideas for saving money. Try and practice these as much as possible.

• Use vehicle relocation services: These brilliant services offer huge discounts to people on the condition they get a vehicle to a certain place at a certain time. No joke, you can rent a car sometimes for as low as $1/day! Availability is very limited though, so keep a watchful eye on the sites. Check immova and Cruise America to start with.
• Rent an economy car: Prices can be as low as $25/day depending on the time of year and how far in advance you reserve. Economy cars are also more fuel-efficient so you’ll save on fuel.
• Camp: Unless you want to fork out big bucks for a lodge, you have to camp. Campgrounds are way less expensive and sometimes even free. Check out this post for a breakdown of the best tents to take backpacking .  If you’re feeling really adventurous and want to save some cash, consider picking up a backpacking hammock.
• Sleep overnight in an empty lot: Though not technically legal, people sleep in parking lots all the time. Make sure the lot is safe by asking around. Walmarts are reportedly good places to park overnight as they allow overnight parking.
• Buy an America the Beautiful Pass : Seriously, if you’re visiting more than two national parks, you’d be a fool not to buy this.
• Cook your own food: Eating out can be very expensive. Cook your own food as much as possible to save – I recommend bringing a portable backpacking stove . Otherwise, have a fancy night out at a food cart.
• Do free shit: There are lots of free activities on the East Coast! From hiking to laying on the beach to going to the local monuments; all of these things cost you nill. Be sure to keep your ear to the ground for all things free in the East.
• Pack a filtered water bottle : It’s good for your wallet and the environment. Purified water is easy to come by in the States versus other countries.

Feeling a little gross after hanging out in the Great Smoky Mountains ? Got sand in every crack and corner of your body after laying on the beach too long? Maybe it’s time to take a break from your camping road trip on the East Coast and to check into a hotel.

Thankfully, hotels are everywhere in the USA and come in all shapes and sizes–there’s even quite the selection of USA budget hotel chains . You could perch yourself in a high-rise condo in the middle of the city or perhaps laze away in a small inn on the countryside.

If you’re on a budget East Coast road trip and need to cut costs, you’ll most likely have to settle for cheaper guesthouses and motels . These types of accommodation are fairly generic, drab, and offer a pretty limited amount of amenities. If you’re using hotels in more expensive states, than you’ll still end up paying $80/night minimum.

No matter what you end up choosing though, one thing is for certain – hotels on the East coast are expensive. Airbnbs in the US are a much better option than chain hotels most of time, and you can see plethora of reviews beforehand.

If you needed to save the most money on your East Coast road trip, then you should take advantage of hostels and campgrounds .

They are by far the most affordable type of accommodation on the East Coast, and are actually quite fun to stay at. Though hostels in the USA can be a little weird (we know: we’ve stayed at several), most are perfectly decent even if they’re not as rad as the ones in Europe or Asia.

Best Places to Stay on the East Coast

Here are some of the absolute best places to stay on your East Coast road trip:

East Coast Camping Road Trip

Spread across the entire Eastern seaboard is an endless variety of campgrounds set amongst dozens of landscapes. An East Coast camping trip is a fantastic way of seeing everything that the region has to offer, and you should rarely be left uninspired by the amazing selection.

There are all kinds of campgrounds in the East that offer a wide range of amenities and rates. Generally speaking, there are four types: private, public, dispersed , and backcountry . Below is a brief explanation of each.

• Private – Larger campgrounds that offer the most amenities including communal kitchens, showers, and maybe onsite restaurants. Most appropriate for demanding campers. Most expensive as well. Payment is made through the office of the owners.
• Public – More basic campgrounds that offer limited but crucial amenities. Running water, electricity, and bathrooms should be but are not always present. Good prices. Payment is made to a public organization either online or via a drop box at the camp.
• Dispersed – aka wild camping, primitive camping . Camping in an area that is not an official campground but is still legal. Little to no amenities. Almost always free.
• Backcountry – Camps located in the wilderness areas. Almost always require a hike to reach. Often no facilities so campers must bring food, cooking gear, camp supplies, etc. Permits are usually required and can be arranged at a nearby ranger station.

A lot of campgrounds, especially those at the national parks, can fill up very quickly. Consider booking a campground ahead of time to ensure that you have a spot.

If there are no campgrounds left at a specific place, there may be walk-up sites available, which you’ll need to arrive early to claim. If you strike out on the walk-up sites as well, there may be overflow camping nearby.

You can definitely camp for free while on a road trip down the East Coast! Most of these campgrounds are pretty remote or located on some sort of specially mandated land.

Each state offers different types of free backcountry camping so you will need to research each. To get started, check this website for a compendium of free camping on the East Coast.

Camping on the East Coast – Gear Checklist

The East Coast has some of the finest camping in the whole country. You could sleep in your car or an RV while traveling on the East Coast but sleeping outside under the stars is way more fun. Having a good tent will keep you comfortable on those chilly nights and give you lots of flexibility when it comes to finding a place to sleep.

Here are some other essentials that we recommend adding ton your road trip packing list …

Travel Security Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

‘Monopoly Deal’

Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.

Hanging Laundry Bag

Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.

Don’t forget the insect repellent either!

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Renting a car is the most popular way of getting around the Eastern USA. There are a myriad of car rental agencies here that offer varying deals and varying models.

To find the best rental car deal in the USA, use search engines that compare the prices of individual companies. I personally like using rentalcars.com as they’ve never failed to give us a great price.

You can also rent an RV or campervan, which means you don’t have to worry about packing camping gear. You will have to empty and refill the various water tanks though, which will require a visit to the proper facilities. RVs also cost more to rent, use more gas, and demand higher prices at campgrounds.

You can drive your own campervan around the country, but this is only practical if you already own one and are importing it into the country, or have a long enough US visa to make the most out of your wheeled home.

I suggest booking a campervan with Outdoorsy as they usually have a good selection and good prices. Better yet, Broke Backpackers also get a $40 discount with Outdoorsy! Just use the coupon code “BACKPACKER” when checking out.

The roads are generally very good and a sedan or economy car should deliver you to most of the East Coast’s top destinations. Only in the most remote portions of the Appalachia and the swamplands will you need to be concerned about having 4-wheel drive.

If you need any extra motivation to book that trip, here is the perfect mix of cheesy and inspirational road trip quotes . I’m sure they’ll give you the nudge you need.

Tips for Saving Money on Car Rentals in the US

• Reach out to vehicle relocation services, like Imoova and Cruise America , as a way of saving heaps of cash on rentals.
• Car insurance isn’t always mandatory in the USA but is highly encouraged. This being said, you don’t necessarily have to buy car insurance from the company you’re renting from. Purchase a RentalCover.com policy to cover your vehicle against any common damages such as tires, windscreens, theft, and more at a fraction of the price you would pay at the rental desk.
• Many credit card companies offer free car insurance if you book the car with the proper card. Call your credit card company for more information regarding terms and conditions.

Best Time to Visit the East Coast

The East Coast is a massive region that is subject to more than a dozen different climates. While on a road trip along the East Coast, USA, you could potentially experience rain, sunshine, snow, and tropical storms – all in the course of a few weeks!

Depending on what you want to do, you could visit the East Coast at any time of the year. Summers generally have the most reliable weather though you might get dumped on in Florida.

On the other hand, if you were on an East Coast road trip in the winter, you could totally go skiing in New England and then surfing in Florida! Just don’t forget a high-quality ski jacket .

I have broken the East Coast into three different climate categories. These are broad generalizations and, in reality, each state has much more complex weather patterns. These categories are relevant enough for you to understand how the weather works on the East Coast.

Northeastern States (New England -> Pennsylvania) – These states are subject to 4 distinct seasons with cold, snowy winters and warm, semi-humid summers. Winters in these states can be frigid as the Canadian winds wreak havoc. Summers are mostly mild but heat waves are still common.

Central Atlantic States (Maryland -> Georgia) – These states receive more regular rainfall throughout the year and less dramatic temperature swings. Winters are still relatively cold and summers are the hottest time of the year, which means that these states are still classified as having 4 seasons. Though rare, Georgia and the Carolinas can actually receive snow in the winter.

Tropical States (Florida) – While the climate of Northern Florida is more similar to Georgia’s, Southern Florida is textbook tropical. Rain comes in bucket loads during the summer, sometimes dangerously in the form of hurricanes. Winters are mild and clear.

Food on the East Coast

A road trip on the East Coast will afford endless opportunities for you to try different foods. The food of this region is so diverse and so different that it’s not possible to put all of it into one category (except, of course, a delicious category).

Each state has its own local delicacies. You could make a culinary road trip from Maine to Florida in pursuit of these dishes and it would certainly take up a lot of your time and attention!

But let’s briefly talk about what you’ll find on each part of the East Coast…

New England is famous for its seafood , which is often baked, stewed or steamed to divine results. Chowder is perhaps the most famous dish here, though you can’t go wrong with a good ol’ clambake or lobster roll. On that note, Maine lobster is highly regarded. Food in Boston is particularly famous for its clam chowder, Boston baked beans, and being a legendary baseball city, hot dogs.

New York City has just about every type of food imaginable because of its enormous immigrant population. You can seriously eat some of the best food from around the globe in one city. If there was one or two foods that could be called true New York food, it might be bagels and pizza . As pizza in the city is often priced at backpacker-friendly rates, just pair it with a cheap NYC hostel for an affordable adventure.

Pizza and, for that matter, Italian food is fairly common in the Atlantic states. Some places, like New Haven (Connecticut) and Scranton (Pennsylvania) even claim to have the best in the world.

The sandwich is also a staple of the East Coast and comes in many varieties. New Jersey is famous for inventing “the sub” while you can’t say you’ve visited Philadelphia’s tourist attractions without savoring its very well-known Philly cheesesteak.

As we drive further south the food begins to change. Southern cooking becomes the dominant trend and BBQ and fried foods are heavily featured. The Carolinas are particularly famous for their version of BBQ, though the Georgian variety is no slouch either.

Finally, Southern Florida has some of the best Caribbean and Latin food that you’ll eat in the USA. Cuban, Jamaican, Dominican, South American – all of these culinary styles are represented very well in Miami and the surrounding area.

Get your Buzz On

The East Coast is called the Beast Coast for a reason – people get wild on a regular basis and throw some of the best parties in the USA! You can party in a myriad of ways while on a road trip up the East Coast – you could go to a speakeasy in New York City, drink with rowdy Southies in a Boston dive, rub shoulders with politicians in Washington DC or dance all night in Miami. The possibilities are limitless.

Just make sure you know your personal limits (and that of your wallet) before dabbling in drug tourism, that’s all!

Drinking on the East Coast, particularly in the bigger cities, is by no means cheap though. Cover charges, exorbitant drink prices, and taxi fees add up very quickly; you could easily drop more than $100 in a single night.

I advise drinking at local dive bars for the cheapest drinks and taking advantage of the ubiquitous happy hour. You can get a beer for as low as $1 in some bars.

Beer is probably the most popular drink on the East Coast and is found in abundance at nearly every bar. No matter which bar you end up in, you’ll usually have a huge selection of domestic, craft, and imported choices. Best of all, it’s usually the cheapest drink!

One idea is to go on a brewery tour of the East Coast! There are hundreds of breweries on the East Coast making everything from shitty lagers to divine ales. I suggest visiting Brooklyn Brewing, Wicked Weed in Asheville, Ommegang in upstate New York, and Creature Comforts in Athens, Georgia.

Marijuana is legal for recreational use in several New England states! While on a Northeast coast road trip, you can drop by a dispensary and pick up a dime bag. All you need to buy weed is an ID proving that you’re over 21 and cash.

Be sure to brush up on local laws and don’t bring marijuana across state borders (especially into illegal states).

Being a Responsible Backpacker

Remember to be a respectful camper while on your East Coast road trip. Depart from the grounds at a decent hour, follow leave no trace principles , and be very, very aware of fire bans.

Reduce your plastic footprint: Perhaps the best thing you can do for our planet is to make sure you do NOT add to the plastic problem all over the world. Don’t buy one-use water bottles, the plastic ends up in a landfill or in the ocean.

I know it can be hard, but do your best to use the least amount of plastic water bottles that you can. Refill the ones that you do buy! Use a GRAYL GEOPRESS . Refill at your hostel/guest house! There are plenty of ways to reduce plastic!!!

Pack a tough and cool travel water bottle. You’ll use it every single day whether you are traveling or not! Be a responsible traveler , and grab a Grayl!

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

I hope this epic East Coast road trip guide has prepared you for your overland journey along the Atlantic Ocean. This region of the country is filled with unique landscapes, plenty of history, and some truly delicious food.

Traveling here will help you get to know the US, and give you a look at the diversity within it. Just look at the differences between Miami and Maine!

This is a lot to take in, but remember that road trips can be spontaneous. That’s half the fun! On the other hand, if you just can’t quite decide where to start, you can’t go wrong with the Ultimate East Coast Road trip, which truly hits all the best stops on this side of the United States.

So make those last-minute van repairs or secure your rental.

An East Coast road trip awaits !

Updated April 2023 by Samantha Shea from Intentional Detours .

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I noticed a typo. The South Carolina State University is not located in Raleigh, NC. It should read North Carolin Satate University.

Awesome high level ideas for the ultimate East Coast road trip! As a Florida local, I’d recommend travelers check out some of the smaller, lesser-known FL West Coast areas like Anna Maria Island just south of Tampa or Sanibel if you’re heading even further south. All said and done, your guide did Florida justice — from visiting the Dry Tortugas to trying our BBQ and fried gator.

Wow, really long and informative article! Don’t have much to add but two tips that fall under the category general (obvious) advice:

– Don’t set the stops in stone and don’t try to keep a timeline. Take your time to explore places and stay flexible. Your trip will benefit greatly. – Keep a track of gas stations on your route. Because obviously there’s nothing worse but to run out of gas on a rainy day in the middle of nowhere…

Totally agree! You should really check out that ViaMichelin app for gas stations and what not. It’s brilliant.

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Boston, DC, NYC, Philadelphia

Boston to D.C.: The Ultimate Northeast Coast Road Trip

Ready to hit the road? Keep reading to find out our recommendations on what to do and where to stay during your travels down the coast for everyone.

Pack up your car and hit the road to travel this popular route that offers plenty to do and see along the way.

Driving from Boston to Washington, D.C. is the perfect East Coast road trip route—it’s manageable (about seven hours of driving) and includes stops at major cities that are filled with attractions including Philadelphia and New York.

Ready to hit the road? Keep reading to find out our recommendations on what to do and where to stay during your travels down the coast.

Starting point: Boston

Before you depart Beantown, be sure to check out the city’s historical sites and attractions including the Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, Faneuil Hall Marketplace, Boston Common, and the Freedom Trail. During the summer, you can also catch a game at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox .

Looking for a place to stay? Our Club Quarters Hotel in Boston is conveniently located within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions including the famed North End neighborhood, plus it’s housed in the historic Compton Building, so you can experience a bit of Boston’s past without leaving your room.

Stop #1: Connecticut coastline

As you head south, consider making a detour to visit Mystic and New Haven, both located along the Connecticut coastline. The charming New England town of Mystic boasts two top attractions—the Mystic Seaport Museum and the Mystic Aquarium, while New Haven is home to Yale University, the Grove Street Cemetery, and the New Haven Museum. Plus, you can grab a slice at one of the state’s famous pizzerias.

Stop #2: New York City

As the halfway point between Boston and D.C., the Big Apple serves as a great extended pit stop during your journey. With so much to see and do, you might want to plan to spend several days here, instead of just passing through Manhattan. From iconic sites such as Grand Central, Times Square, and Central Park to neighborhoods like Little Italy and Chinatown, the city offers lots of options for dining , entertainment, shopping, sightseeing, and more.

Our Club Quarters Times Square – Midtown location is situated near the Theater District and Rockefeller Center and makes for an ideal central homebase for visiting the city’s popular landmarks like the Empire State Building, Bryant Park, and Top of the Rock, while our Lower Manhattan property offers easy access to the September 11th Memorial and Battery Park.

Stop #3: Philadelphia

See some of the country’s most important historical sites when you make a stop in Philadelphia. Throughout Independence National Historical Park, you’ll find sites such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the First Bank Of The United States—all a short walk from the Club Quarters Rittenhouse Square location . Like Boston, you can also catch a Philadelphia Phillies game at Citizens Bank Park during the baseball season.

And don’t forget to grab snacks for the road at Reading Terminal Market , an indoor farmer’s market that’s been around since 1892 and sells everything from fresh produce to roast pork sandwiches (a local fave), before leaving the City Of Brotherly Love.

Stop #4: Susquehanna State Park

Close to Philadelphia and just across the Maryland border, you’ll find Susquehanna State Park, which runs along the Susquehanna River. Filled with dense forests with hiking and cycling trails and fishing piers, the park offers a refreshing nature break from the road. If you want to spend the night, camping is available with sites that are equipped with electricity, restroom facilities, and hot running water.

Destination: Washington, D.C.

You’ve arrived! Get ready to see the sights in D.C ., including some of the country’s most recognizable monuments and memorable museums such as the White House, the United States Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian. Plus, our Club Quarters Hotel is located just two blocks from the White House and is close to many of the city’s other historic sites. If you’re traveling in the spring, be sure to check out the National Cherry Blossom Festival here, which occurs at the end of March into early April.

Now’s the time to program your GPS, pack up the trunk, and book your stays at Club Quarters Hotels along the road trip route. Plus, you can bring along your pup for no extra charge at any of the Club Quarters Hotels.

More Posts View more posts here

Philadelphia

If you’re planning a trip to The City of Brotherly Love, we’ve created a Philadelphia visitors guide packed with plenty of things to do during your stay. 

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Adventures of the 4 JLs

Join our family as we explore the world.

Summer Road Trip from Boston to DC

On an extended weekend in July, we decided to take a family road trip to Washington, DC .

Coming from Greater Boston , the drive isn’t short (8-9 hours; about 440 miles), but there are many places along the way with which to break it up – including cities like New York , Philly , and Baltimore. Just keep in mind that extra traffic can make your drive longer than expected! Highlights of our particular trip included many of the Smithsonian Museums , a few other museums and galleries, lot of National Monuments and Memorials , a stop to see the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia, as well as a stop at Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey .

Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey

Our first intended destination was the Six Flags Great Adventure amusement park for the birthday of one of our kids, covid concerns aside. This park currently has the world’s tallest roller coaster, which is a positive for a pair of teen boys.

We left the Boston area late afternoon on Wednesday, with the goal of getting past New York City and its associated metro traffic the following morning. NYC itself is about a 4 hour drive from Boston , so we found a hotel maybe 4.5 hours from our house, near the freeway in New Jersey that was roughly an hour from the theme park. The evening drive was uneventful, getting in around 9-10pm. Then the next morning, after our hotel breakfast, we drove the remaining hour to the amusement park , making sure we were there 30 minutes before the park opening time.

Lines were short, particularly in the morning, the boys had tons of fun, and we ended up not getting sick, so all-in-all, it ended up working out. You can read about our full experience on an earlier post !

After leaving the amusement park, we drove a bit further south, staying the night in the Cherry Hill, NJ area, relatively close to Philadelphia .

Liberty Bell and Independence Hall in Philadelphia

Our hotel choice set us up for an easy 30 minute drive into Philadelphia . We parked near the Independence Visitor Center, then walked to the Liberty Bell Center.

The Liberty Bell Center is quite fascinating!

In addition to learning about the making of the bell and problems with its construction, you will also learn about its fascinating roll in both the abolitionist movement and the women’s suffrage movement.

With an inscription like “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land Unto All the Inhabitants thereof,” you can probably guess some of the purposes that various groups assigned to this bell!

After visiting the Liberty Bell, we moved on to Independence Hall . Unfortunately, Independence Hall now requires advance reservations to enter, so we snapped a picture told the boys that this was where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed, and showed them the picture of the building on the matching bill.

It was a fun stop, and while there are many more sights to see in Philadelphia , our goal was Washington, D.C. , so we did a quick walking tour of the area, then hopped into the car and continued our drive.

Along the way, we did stop for quick bite to eat in Delaware, since our kids hadn’t technically been in the state of Delaware yet (though that visit probably only marginally counts).

Suburban Air and Space Museum

When we into the D.C. metro area around 2-3pm, we went to the suburban National Air and Space Museum, Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia (different from the Air and Space Museum along the National Mall in DC), which was a great visit for our airplane enthusiast son. It has more space for larger exhibits, and we hadn’t seen it before.

First Evening in Washington, DC.

When we arrived inside Washington, DC , around 5pm, we checked into the Downtown Residence Inn . If you plan to do most of your travel by foot, our recommendation is to stay as close to the National Mall and other points of interest as possible. Distances are deceiving and you will get tired quickly if you try to walk too far. Our experience has been that hotels near the White House have been both convenient and not as expensive as some of the other hotels in downtown Washington, DC.

We rested for a bit, then decided to head out for dinner and a walk on the National Mall .

After making a stop by the White House, we made a detour into Chinatown for dinner. While we enjoyed our meal, we had order a 4 person family special and ended up with way too much food. Slightly unfortunate, but it was tasty.

Washington Monument to Lincoln Memorial

From there, we walked to the National Mall where we got a distant view of the Capitol Building. Not wanting to exhaust ourselves, we decided not to walk the entire mall, but instead chose a small portion of it that included the Washington Monument, the WWII Memorial, the Reflecting Pool, Lincoln’s Memorial, and the Vietnam War Memorial.

On our way back to our hotel, a bunch of the streets were blocked off by the police and were being guarded by helicopters. After observing for a while, our conclusion was that President Biden was likely getting into his own helicopter and making his way to the airport or some other destination.

At this point, an Uber or taxi back to our hotel might have been nice, but since we were in Covid times and felt like we had taken enough risks with our amusement park adventure, we decided to exercise our legs and walk back to the hotel.

First Full Day in Washington, DC

On our family’s first full day in Washington, DC , we decided to visit two museums: the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History . It was a lot of fun, but also a lot of museum. Keep in mind that in the summer, it can be hot outside in DC, and air-conditioned museum can make the heat of the day much more pleasant. In any case, figure out how much time you want to spend exploring museums, and pick your activities based on that.

Before going, check the current rules/hours and be aware that they might change with little notice – when we first thought of the trip, timed reservations were required, but a few days before the trip, they got rid of that requirement.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The main reason people go to the Natural History Museum is to see the dinosaurs. They have a very impressive collection of dinosaur bones, not as impressive as some in the American West, but still very nice.

In addition to dinosaurs, there are also nice exhibits on human origins, mammals, ocean creatures, geology, and more!

After visiting the amazing Natural History Museum , we got a predictably mediocre lunch in the museum cafe, but we were sufficiently hungry that it didn’t seem to matter.

Smithsonian National Museum of American History

From there, we continued onto the American History Museum , which was quite nice if you found the right exhibits.

The transportation exhibit is quite impressive and is sure to delight toddlers, teens, and grandparents!

If war history piques your interest, then you can spend quite a bit of time exploring exhibits on the Revolutionary War, Civil War, World Wars, and more!

James really liked seeing the original U.S. flag that inspired the Star Spangled Banner. You can also find exhibits on technology, everyday life, and more!

Korean Memorial to the Jefferson Memorial

We went back to the hotel for an afternoon siesta, and then at dinner time we decided to head out and see a few more sights in the National Mall . If you are in Washington, DC , for multiple days, it really is best to avoid seeing all of the National Monuments and Memorials in one day. In the heat of the summer, this area is nicest in the early morning and evening, so take your time exploring a small section of the National Mall each day.

Having finished the memorials on the north side of the reflecting pool the night before, we set out towards the south side of the reflecting pool. Unfortunately, the Korean War Memorial was under renovation, so that was a bit of a bust.

Continuing further south, we came to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and then the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial.

We eventually made it to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. While the steps were under renovation, the inside was still accessible. While it is a bit out of the way, you can get some nice views of the city from here.

It was starting to rain a bit harder, although really not that bad, so we decided to head directly back to the hotel from here.

Second Full Day in Washington, DC

On our last day in Washington, D.C. , we decided to spend the morning at the National Gallery of Art and the afternoon at the International Spy Museum .

National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art is one of my favorite museums. If you love Western art through the centuries, this is an art gallery for you!

Food Trucks

We decided to try one of the many food trucks along the National Mall for lunch and ate on a park bench.

International Spy Museum

Our next stop was the International Spy Museum (which is a private museum, not a Smithsonian museum), which might have been more fun if it weren’t quite so crowded. Or packed with under-12 unvaccinated kids.

We looked at the displays, and some of the interactive exhibits, which were interesting enough, but it might be better off-peak, whenever that is.

We haven’t taken a ton of Ubers since covid, but we sufficiently tired that we took an Uber back to the hotel. The Metro in DC is decent enough, but the distance between stops can be deceptively far. Plus when traveling with a family of 4, the cost of an Uber is typically not that much more than 4 metro tickets.

Heading Back to Boston

Since Jeremy needed to work on Monday morning, we had planned that Jeremy and James would fly back to Boston on an early morning flight, while John and I drove.

By Sunday late afternoon, we were done with museums and sites, and I still had energy to drive, so John and I decided to leave that evening, and try to just past New York City . The traffic between Washington, D.C. and Baltimore was fairly heavy, though probably less so than on Monday morning – the stretch between DC and NY feels like Greater Los Angeles, where there can always be some traffic somewhere. But in any case, we both converged back to Boston on Monday, following our different paths.

Keep reading our travel blog for more travel itinerary ideas !

Here are some more posts from this trip :

International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C.

Fall Weekend in NYC

Quick Stops: The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall

Monuments and Memorials Located in the National Mall: Washington, D.C.

National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.

National Air and Space Museum, Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia

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15 East Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

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The east coast of the USA is home to amazing landscapes, historical attractions, culture & traditions, breathtaking drives, mountain views, and delicious culinary delights. In this post discover 15 epic east coast USA road trip itinerary ideas to start planning your own!

15 Ultimate East Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary Ideas 

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

What States are on the East Coast of the US?

The east coast of the United States comprises the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.

All the fourteen states on the East Coast border the Atlantic Ocean and form the eastern seaboard of the country. It will take about 45 hours, give or take to drive coast to coast.

Popular east coast cities include New York City, Boston, Miami, and Orlando! And there are national parks, and beach resort getaway places like Myrtle Beach on the Atlantic Coast and beyond. 

So whether it is embarking on a scenic New England road trip in the fall , the Blue Ridge Parkway in NC, checking out the Kennedy Space center and Walt Disney World in Florida, or soaking in views of lighthouses in Maine to the southernmost point in Key West, the trip combinations are endless!

Reserve Car Rental: Prepare Ahead

If you need a car rental, we recommend comparing and checking prices on Discovercars.com to book yours.

Packing for USA road trips 

Here are some essential items to pack for your upcoming road trip destinations,

• Emergency Car Kit – Bring an emergency car kit with you on all of your road trips. This 90 piece emergency comprises a portable air compressor, tow strap, jumper cables, and more. Buy your emergency car kit here
• First Aid Kit – Carry a small first aid kit. Buy a first aid kit here
• GPS or Offline Maps – Don’t forget a GPS for road navigation. Buy GPS here . Or download Google Maps prior to your trip. Maps.me is a good option too. 
• Car Adaptor – To charge your smartphone and/or other electronics. Buy your car adaptor here
• Music – Great Playlist
• Clothes – Including a waterproof jacket. Buy my all-time favorite jacket here
• Scarf – To cozy up or as a cover-up
• Flip flops – To walk the beach. Buy your flip flops here
• Camera – Don’t forget your camera to capture beautiful road trip photos. Buy our favorite camera here
• Sunscreen and any OTC medications – Buy sunscreen here
• And of course, don’t forget car insurance and roadside assistance service . Get this nifty holder to keep details

NYC to Finger Lakes East Coast Road Trip

By Allison from Eternal Arrival 

• Number of Days : 5 Days
• Route: From New York City to the Finger Lakes in Upstate New York

This NYC to Finger Lakes road trip is the perfect East Coast road trip for wine lovers, waterfall friends, and art lovers alike. This road trip can be done at any time of year, as there’s never a bad time to visit the Finger Lakes! 

However, winter weather can be unpredictable, so we suggest visiting the Finger Lakes in summer if you want to swim and enjoy the lakes or in autumn if you want to take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage. 

Day 1 -2: Start by leaving New York City and going straight to Ithaca; traveling via Scranton, Pennsylvania is the fastest (and a fun stop for fans of the Office — or President Biden!) Travel around Ithaca for some of the best waterfalls you’ll be able to find anywhere in the US! 

A few great waterfalls include the waterfall at Cascadilla Gorge Trail and the falls at Taughannock Falls State Park. 

After exploring the waterfalls, do some wine tasting around Cayuga Lake, following the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail. 

Day 3-4: Seneca Falls makes a good stop, where you can learn about the history of women’s suffrage at Women’s Rights National Historical Park and see the home of the noted suffragette, Elizabeth Cady Stanton. 

If you’re still looking for more wineries, head to the  Seneca Lake Wine Trail next, to taste some of the region’s best wines. Continue on to Watkins Glen State Park for some incredible hiking with beautiful views — this is also a great place for fall foliage. 

Day 5: Finally, end your road trip in Corning, with a trip to the Corning Museum of Glass, before returning to NYC or heading onwards to Niagara Falls if you want to continue your road trip.

The lovely La Tourelle Hotel & Spa , located near Buttermilk Falls State Park, is an incredible place to stay in Ithaca. Ithaca makes a good base for traveling around the Finger Lakes region if you don’t want to move around with every stop.

Hotel Recommendations: La Tourelle Hotel & Spa

Boston to Acadia National Park, Maine

By Dhara from It’s Not About the Miles

• Number of Days:   3 to 4 days
• Route : Boston to Acadia National Park, Maine

Boston is a city with many iconic green spaces, such as the Boston Public Garden and the Boston Common, but it is also close to many beautiful natural areas.

In particular, a road trip to Acadia National Park in Maine is worth considering, for its beautiful landscapes and stunning fall colors.

You can travel from Boston to Acadia National Park via the beautiful New England Coast, or you can travel an interior route, which you might want to do in the fall, to take in more fall colors along the way. But the coastal route is wonderful any time of year.

Stop 1 : Along the route, you will want to stop at Portsmouth, the New Hampshire port city, where you can admire the historic architecture at the 10-acre Strawbery Banke Museum, and enjoy shopping at some of the many lovely stores in the city.

Stop 2 (full day) : Next, drive on to Portland, where you will want to spend at least a full day exploring. In Portland’s Old Port, wander the streets and admire the beautiful old red brick architecture. There are many one-of-a-kind shops to browse and street art to view.

Walk the waterfront, to photograph the many boats lined up in the harbor. Stroll Congress Square Park and Monument Square.

Enjoy a sweet treat at the Holy Donut. Eat seafood at Portland Lobster Company. Take in the views from Munjoy Hill. Visit Portland Head Light, one of the most beautiful lighthouses on the US east coast.

Stop 3 : On the coastal route to Camden, enjoy the Androscoggin Swinging Bridge, a pedestrian suspension bridge that crosses the river of the same name, and the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse. 

Stop 4 (full day) : Arrive at Bar Harbor, where you can spend the rest of the day exploring the cute town before you hit up the park the following day.

Stop 5 : At Acadia National Park, there are numerous trails to hike, and scenic overlooks for photos. Don’t miss Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: it is particularly beautiful at sunset.

Hotel Recommendations: Stay at the Portland Harbor Hotel in Portland and in Acadia Hotel in Bar Harbor.

Road Trip from Annapolis MD, Chincoteague, VA to Virginia Beach 

By Jennifer from Family Trip Guides

• Number of Days: 4 to 6 days
• Route: From Annapolis MD, Chincoteague VA, to Virginia Beach

Discover sunny beaches, delicious food, and wild ponies on this delightful east coast road trip on the water!

This road trip is best for 4-6 days of exploring starting in Annapolis MD, driving 2.5 hours to the natural beauty of Chincoteague Island VA, and then driving 2 hours to miles of beaches at Virginia Beach, VA.

Stop 1 – Annapolis, MD: This historic city is the capital of Maryland filled with historical landmarks and delicious restaurants. Make sure to check out Dock Street Bar and Grill right on the City Dock where you can eat great seafood and check out the beautiful boats in the harbor. 

Lots of wonderful harborside hotels including The Westin Annapolis and Annapolis Waterfront Hotel , Autograph Collection.

Stop 2 – Wild Horses of Chincoteague Island, VA: Next, drive 2.5 hours south across the Chesapeake Bay and down its banks to the unspoiled beauty of Chincoteague Island.

The wild ponies are actually located on Assateague Island which is a National Park Seashore located nearby. You can go to the seashore and see the ponies that are living wild and were the inspiration for the family movie, Misty. 

Lots to do on top of watching ponies and hanging out at the beach including visiting the Assateague Lighthouse and the Captain Timothy Hill House. There are some small hotels on the island and also lots of beach rental properties.

If you are traveling in the spring, fall, or winter, we recommend all-weather gear for kids to enjoy the sand and surf without being too cold!  

Stop 3 – Virginia Beach, VA: The final stop on your road trip is the vast and beautiful beaches of Virginia Beach. There are actually 28 miles of sandy public beaches to explore!

There is also a wide boardwalk with dozens of hotels right on the beach. The Residence Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront is a great option as each suite has a kitchenette to save money on making meals in the room.

Virginia Beach is a contrast to Chincoteague as it has all the vacation amenities right at your door including tons of shops, restaurants, and things to do like mini golf, surrey bike rentals, and more.  

Hotel Recommendations:

• Annapolis: Stay at The Westin Annapolis or Annapolis Waterfront Hotel
• Virginia Beach : Residence Inn Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Washington D.C. to Philadelphia, to New York City

By Rachel from A City Girl Outside

• Number of Days : 10 days
• Route : From Washington D.C. to Philadelphia, and ending in New York City

This 10-day itinerary features one of the best road trips on the east coast of the USA, from Washington D.C. to Philadelphia, and ending in New York City. These three American cities are not only historical but offer tons of fun things to see and do. 

You can start in either Washington D.C. or New York City. This road trip can be done any time of the year but is especially good in the early summer months. 

Day 1-3: Start by spending 3 days exploring Washington D.C. the capital of the United States. The great thing about Washington D.C. is that many of the main attractions are free. Begin your time in D.C. by touring the Capitol Building. 

Tours of the Capitol are free but must be booked online and a booking fee of $1.50 per person will be charged to secure your time. During your tour, you’ll get to explore the famous rotunda and the House Chamber. 

Next head to one of the many Smithsonian Museums. All of these museums are free but my personal favorite and must-do in Washington D.C. is the Natural History Museum. Take a walk down the National Mall hitting all the famous memorials.

Take a trip to the top of the Washington Memorial then climb the steps to the Lincoln Memorial. Get an up close and personal look at the Declaration of Independence at the National Archives Museum, another free activity in Washington D.C. that can be booked online. 

Day 4 – 5: Your next stop is Philadelphia, the birthplace of the United States. Philadelphia also offers many free things to do and most attractions are within walking distance of the city centre. 2 days in Philadelphia is the perfect amount of time to see this city’s best attractions. 

Book a free tour of Independence Hall and learn about the beginnings of the USA, tours can be booked in advance and tickets can be picked up on the day. After your tour head to the Liberty Bell – one of the most famous symbols of American Independence. 

Just a stone’s throw away from Independence Hall is the Betsy Ross house where the very first United States Flag was sewn. To tour the house will cost around $5. 

A short walk from the Betsy Ross house is Elfreth’s Alley, a quaint cobble-stoned alley and the oldest residential street in the United States. Explore the Reading Terminal Market for all your snacks and sweet treats.

Day 6 – 10: And finally, end your road trip in the big apple – New York City! NYC is a huge city with a plethora of activities. 5 days is recommended for this part of the trip in order to see New York’s best attractions. 

Some must do’s in New York City are the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and a visit to an observation deck. There are plenty of options for an observation deck, our favorite is the Rockefeller Centre with its iconic views of the Empire State Building.

But you can also opt for the newer One World Observatory of the Empire State Building itself. 

A walk through Central Park is always on every list of things to do in New York. Take your time walking through this park as there are many sights to stop at and take photos.

A New York food tour is a great option for sampling the best food in the city. Donuts, coffee, hotdogs, and pizza should be on your list of foods to try in New York. End your trip by sipping on cocktails in one of New York’s rooftop bars!

Hotel Recommendations:  

• Washington DC : Hotel Hive
• Philadelphia: The Marriott Philadelphia Centre City
• New York City: Hyatt Times Square

St Augustine, Florida to Beaufort, South Carolina

By Carol from IsThisEvenARoad

• Number of Days : 3 days
• Route : From St Augustine, Florida to Beaufort, South Carolina

The east coast is one of the most beautiful places in the country for a road trip. There is a good balance of nature, cities, and historic places on the drive from St Augustine, Florida to Beaufort, South Carolina.

Driving straight through would take less than 6 hours. Three days is advisable to leisurely take in all the sites of the coast.

Day 1: Starting in St Augustine, avoid the concrete and signs of the highway and take A1A along the shore. Most of the way to Amelia Island offers gorgeous Atlantic views. At the end of the road, it is an easy transition onto 95 which will go all the way to Savannah and then 170 into Beaufort.

St Augustine, the oldest city in the U.S., is rich with history and needs a full day to explore. Enjoy traditional Spanish architecture on a walking tour throughout the town. 

Do check out Castillo de San Marco’s, a 17th century stone Spanish fortress. Take a drink from Ponce de Leon’s Fountain of Youth. Then relax at the 1905 Columbia Restaurant for traditional Spanish food.

Day 2 : Savannah is the next stopping point. There are a number of driftwood beaches and golden sand beaches along the way. Once in town, stay in the Historic District at one of the Heritage Hotels.

Most of this area can be explored on foot including Colonial Park Cemetery. The famous Bonaventure Cemetery and the Wormsloe Plantation are a short drive from the city.

Day 3 : On day three head up towards Beaufort, home of Forrest Gump. Make sure to stop and grab boiled peanuts from a roadside stand. Just north of Beaufort is the jaw-dropping Sheldon Church Ruins and the St Helena Chapel of Ease.

This stretch of coast has something for everyone for a memorable and enjoyable road trip. 

Search hotel deals on Booking.com

North Georgia Mountains Road Trip

By Kay from Dotted Globe

• Number of Days: 3 to 4 days
• Route : From Dahlonega to Blue Ridge

Road tripping the North Georgia mountains is an amazing experience. Begin your trip in Downtown Dahlonega and drive all the way up to Blue Ridge.

On the way, this unique road trip takes visitors through the small towns of Helen and Cleveland. We recommend keeping aside 3 to 4 days to enjoy the destinations. 

Day 1 : (Downtown Dahlonega) The trip is the ultimate combination of small-town charm, natural scenery, and loads of history. After all, this was where the first gold rush in America occurred in the 19th century. You can learn all about it at Dahlonega Gold Museum.

Take a stroll around the historic structures and shop at the boutiques. 

Day 2 : Stop in Cleveland at the Babyland General Hospital. This toy store/museum is most known as the home of the famous Cabbage Patch Kids. Families love seeing the many handmade dolls and accessories as well as seeing new kids ‘being born’. 

Day 3: Then visit Helen and enjoy the striking Bavarian architecture. Drink German beer and eat an apple strudel. Helen is also popular for river tubing in the summer.

The state parks and recreation areas outside of Helen are perfect for hiking while the wineries surrounding Helen are great for wine tasting. Stay at the Helendorf River Inn by the water. 

Day 4: Your final stop should be in Downtown Blue Ridge. The fall colors are spectacular here but the town is great to visit year-round. Go shopping, fish, or have a nice meal while you relax downtown. Enjoy the fresh mountain air in North Georgia before you return to routine.

Hotel Recommendation : Helendorf River Inn in Helen, GA

Providence RI to Provincetown, Cape Cod, MA

By Melissa from NavigationJunkie

• Number of Days: 5 to 7 days 
• Route : Providence, RI to Provincetown, MA 

A road trip from Providence, RI to Provincetown, MA will give you the perfect combination of a city visit and a beach getaway. 

Stop 1 : Begin your journey in Providence, RI where you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the park and the many attractions located throughout Roger Williams Park and a stroll through Federal Hill, Providence’s Historic Neighborhood marked by a bronze pinecone.

You will find plenty of Italian restaurants along Atwells Avenue in Federal Hill. The perfect way to end a day spent in Providence is to take a sunset Gondola ride through downtown Providence. 

Stop 2 : Your next stop will be Newport, RI where you can enjoy the Cliff Walk, a paved walk along the shore, a visit to historic Fort Adams, see pieces of art at the Newport Art Museum, and spend a couple hours relaxing on a sandy beach. 

Stop 3 : After Newport, continue on to Plymouth, MA. Here you can view Plymouth Rock, the landing site of the Pilgrims, climb aboard a replica of the Mayflower II, wander the streets of Plymouth and find plenty of quaint, local shops, and visit a replicated village, the Plimoth Plantation.

Stop 4: From here, you will head to the Cape, stopping first in Sandwich at the Heritage Museum and Gardens. Next drive along the Cape Cod National Seashore, where you can stop in many small towns to hit the beach, try some seafood, and visit some lighthouses. 

Stop 5: Your final stop will be Provincetown where you can enjoy some shopping, enjoy an over-sand vehicle tour, go whale watching, and view Cape Cod’s famous sunsets.

While there are fun winter activities that could be enjoyed in the colder months, summer is the best time to take this road trip to get all that these destinations have to offer. 

• Newport: The Chanler at Cliff Walk  
• Cape Cod: Dunes Motor Inn (for a cheaper option within a couple of minutes walk of the beach) in South Yarmouth or Surfside Cottages in Wellfleet

Miami to Key West, Florida

By Megan Starr from Megan Starr

• Number of Days : 1 – 3 days
• Route :  From Miami to Key West

The road trip from Miami to Key West, Florida is arguably one of the best road trips in the United States (and all of North America)!  The road connects two fantastic cities and has a plethora of beautiful stops along the way, making it ideal for all travelers.

Technically, the duration of the road trip from Miami to Key West takes 3 hours and 17 minutes (159 miles), but you will be missing out on so many amazing stops if you drive straight through.

It is recommended to take your time on the drive and you can even extend your road trip from 3 hours to 3 days and never run out of things to do along the way!

As you will be starting from Miami, we suggest adding these road trip attractions to extend your Florida getaway. Spend 1-2 days in Miami exploring Wynwood Walls, Little Havana, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, and Miami Beach. 

With an extra day, you can also visit Everglades National Park before kickstarting the Miami-Key West road trip as outlined below.

Day 1 : The first stop is in Key Largo, Florida.  This Upper Keys city is 69 miles (1 hour and 21 minutes) away from Miami.  When you’re there, you will find amazing attractions such as Coral Castle, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, and Crocodile Lake National Wildlife Refuge.  

There are also several places where you can stay overnight and one of the top recommendations is the Key Largo Marriott Resort , which sits along the bay and allows you to even see manatees from the dock!

Day 2 : On day two, you will drive from Key Largo to Marathon where you can see historical and geological parks such as Windley Key Fossil Reef Geological State Park and Long Key State Park.  A recommended place to stay is the 4-star Tranquility Bay Resort which offers delightful ocean views.

Day 3 : The next day, you will take off from Marathon and pass through other places such as the Blue Hole on Big Pine Key, Bahia Honda State Park (a must stop!), and you can eventually pull into Kimpton Winslow’s Bungalow Hotel in Key West and get ready for your final adventure there.

• Key Largo: Key Largo Marriott Resort
• Key West: Kimpton Winslow’s Bungalow Hotel

The Blue Ridge Parkway 

By Bret Love & Mary Gabbett of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

• Number of Days:   3 to 7 days
• Route : Blue Ridge Parkway 

The full Blue Ridge Parkway route stretches from Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina to the entrance of Shenandoah National Park in Virginia (where it turns into the equally scenic Skyline Drive). 

The great thing about the 469-mile Blue Ridge Parkway is that you can easily break it down into a 3-day weekend getaway, or an epic week-long (or multi-week) vacation. The speed limit is 45 mph, but many drivers go even slower as they soak in the stunning scenic views. 

Theoretically speaking, it would take 15 hours to drive the Blue Ridge Parkway straight through with no stops.

With more than 15 million annual visitors, the BRP is the #1 most popular unit in the US National Park Service. There are 200 Blue Ridge Parkway overlooks in NC and VA, each offering jaw-dropping vistas of America’s wilderness at its most pristine.

From mountains and waterfalls to lush valleys and forests, there are countless noteworthy landmarks along the way. 

Day 1 – 4: Most people don’t drive the entire Blue Ridge Parkway in one stretch, rather breaking it up into day trips or multi-day vacations. We spent 4 days traveling from Cherokee NC (Milepost 469) to Banner Elk, NC (MP 305), and honestly wished we’d had more time for waterfall hikes, exploring attractions, etc. 

Some of our favorites included Mount Mitchell (NC’s tallest), Pisgah National Forest, the Linville Gorge Wilderness, the Linn Cove Viaduct, Looking Glass Rock, Grandfather Mountain State Park, and Price Lake at Julian Price Memorial Park. 

Best of all, there are no billboards, neon signs, restaurants, shopping centers, or other signs of commerce (or “progress”) on the road’s entire length. Just miles and miles of gorgeous views of unspoiled nature at its finest!

There is only one hotel situated on the entire Blue Ridge Parkway– the Switzerland Inn in the quaint little alpine village of Little Switzerland NC . But there are loads of hotels, lodges, and cabins for rent within a few miles of the historic route. 

Hotel Recommendations : Our favorites include the Engadine Inn & Cabins near Asheville NC, the Pisgah Inn, and The Cottages at Spring House Farm near Marion NC.  

Outer Banks Road Trip

By Neha from Travelmelodies

• Number of days : 2 to 3 days
• Route: From Corolla to Cedar Island

Outer Banks, a set of barrier islands off the Atlantic coast is a great place to enjoy some of the best beaches along with loads of other interesting things.

The scenic road passes through many small coastal villages along the route – Duck, Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, Avon, Buxton, Hatteras, and Ocracoke to name a few. 

The route takes about 6.5 hrs including the 3.5 hrs on two ferry rides – one from Hatteras Island to Ocracoke island which is free and the other from Ocracoke to Cedar Island which is paid.

Stop 1/lighthouse stops : There are many beautiful lighthouses along the way including the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, the iconic Bodie Island Lighthouse, and Ocracoke lighthouse worth a stop.

This is the place where the Wright brothers created history by flying the first flight. So stop by the Wright Brothers Memorial and witness the flight strip.

If you are an adventure lover, then there are options galore. 

Stop 2 : Drive your AWD vehicle on Corolla and Cape Hatteras beaches or chase wild horses at Corolla or indulge in water sports.

Stop 3 : For the last leg of the trip, do spend a day at Ocracoke Harbor Inn in the quaint village of Ocracoke.

In all of these stops, it won’t be justice to the ethereal beauty of the place to just drive by without staying and watching the magical sunset/sunrise. 

We would highly recommend staying at Days Inn & Suites Mariner Kill Devils Hills , one of the best Outer Banks hotels during the beginning of the Outer Banks road trip. It is located right by the beach and conveniently located near major attractions like Wright Brothers Memorial, Jockey Ridge State Park, and the shopping complex.

Stay at Days Inn & Suites Mariner Kill Devils Hills

New York City to Boston to Hanover, New Hampshire

By Nicole from Go Far Grow Close

• Number of Days : 7 days
• Route :  New York City to Boston to Hanover, New Hampshire. 

A fantastic 7 day road trip on the East Coast would be from New York City to Boston to Hanover, New Hampshire. 

Day1 – 3 : You should start in New York City and spend 2-3 days here exploring all the city highlights. You can explore on foot or by public transportation. If you want to be in the middle of everything, then spend 3 nights at the gorgeous Knickerbocker Hotel at Times Square .  

Over the next couple of days, you should take the ferry and go see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, visit the 911 Memorial and Museum, walk the High-Line and attend a Broadway show. 

Day 4 – 6: On day four, you should drive 3 ½ hours on I-90 from New York City to Boston, and then, spend the next three nights at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Boston .

From there, you can easily walk everywhere, exploring the Freedom Trail – a 2.5 mile walk that connects 16 historically significant sites – or taking a food tour of Little Italy or the Boston Public Market . 

Day 7: On day seven, you should drive 2 hours on the I-93 and I-89 to reach the small town of Hanover, New Hampshire. Here, you can experience all the lovely stores, cafes, and restaurants on Main Street, and explore Dartmouth Campus. The Hanover Inn is a lovely hotel in the center of town.

Hotel Recommendations

• New York : Knickerbocker Hotel
• Boston : Hyatt Regency
• Hanover: Hanover Inn

Boston, MA to Provincetown (Cape Cod)

By Jackie Gately from Enjoy Travel Life

• Number of days: 4 days
• Route : From Boston to Providence

The road trip from Boston to Provincetown can certainly be made in a day but is more leisurely made in 4.

The high season is July and August, but spring and fall offer fewer tourists and better hotel rates. As you travel through the Cape Cod towns and villages , you will find each has a unique personality. 

Day 1 : From Boston, take Route 3 and cross the Sagamore Bridge onto the Cape. Continue to Sandwich, where you’ll visit the 17th Century Hoxie House, and The Sandwich Glass Museum, and walk along the Sandwich boardwalk for sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Have dinner and check into the Belfry Inn & Bistro, unique accommodations within a former church. 

Day 2 : Grab a pastry, coffee, and picnic lunch at The Brown Jug, then head for Route 6A. You’ll want to meander along, making stops at the boutiques and antique shops.

Have lunch at Nickerson State Park in Brewster, overlooking one of Cape Cod’s ancient kettle ponds, then head to Orleans. There, browse Tree’s Place for some fine art and walk the Rock Harbor beach.

Rest your head for the night at The Parsonage Inn , a lovely bed and breakfast.

Day 3 : Pick up Route 6 through the towns of the Outer Cape, flanking the National Seashore. Once in Provincetown, explore the vibrant town center for souvenirs and street performances. Get a birds-eye view of MacMillan Pier by climbing the steps of Pilgrim Monument.

Next, tour the sand dunes with Art’s Dune Tours–and upgrade to the sunset lobster dinner at Race Point beach. Spend your night at The Crowne Point Hotel and Spa .

Day 4 : Finally, head back to Boston along Route 6 for a faster return, crossing over the Bourne bridge.  Or, better yet, take the ferry.

• East Orleans : Parsonage Inn
• Provincetown: The Crowne Point Hotel and Spa

Road trip through Shenandoah Valley, Virginia

By Julie McCool from Fun in Fairfax VA

• Number of Days : 3 to 5 days
• Route : From Winchester, VA to Roanoke, VA 

A road trip through Virginia’s Shenandoah Valley combines scenic country roads, quaint towns, rich history, and outdoor fun. Allow 3 to 5 days for the 200-mile trip from Winchester to Roanoke Virginia. 

Highway 81, the quickest route through the valley, offers beautiful views of farms, rolling hills, and the Blue Ridge Mountains. But you will find even more to enjoy on the smaller country roads that traverse the valley, including historic Route 11.

Virginia is beautiful year-round, but the valley is especially beautiful in spring and fall.

Day 1: Begin your trip exploring the walkable downtown of Winchester, Virginia. The lovely Old Town Pedestrian Mall is lined with restaurants, shops, and fun for kids at the Shenandoah Valley Discovery Museum. 

Stay at The George Washington Hotel and you can walk to the mall, local breweries, and historic sites.

Day 2: As you head south, visit apple orchards, farm stores, breweries, and wineries that dot the countryside. Spend your second night in Harrisonburg, a college town with a fun and relaxed vibe. Or continue further and explore the towns and sights in the Southern Shenandoah Valley . 

Staunton is home to the American Shakespeare Center, the world’s only re-creation of Shakespeare’s Blackfriars Theater. In Lexington, take a hike to the 215-foot high formation at Natural Bridge State Park then head underground to the Caverns at Natural Bridge.

Day 3 – 4: End your road trip in the hip town of Roanoke. This haven for outdoor lovers is surrounded by great hiking, paddling, and some of the best mountain biking in the Eastern US. 

Stay at the historic Roanoke Hotel and you can walk to the dining, breweries, and shops that pack the compact downtown. Be sure to drive up Mill Mountain to see the 88-foot Roanoke Star and a fantastic view of the valley.

• Winchester: The George Washington Hotel
• Roanoke: Hotel Roanoke

East Coast Road Trip from Washington DC to West Virginia

By Richa from MyTicklefeet

• Number of Days : 2 to 3 days
• Route : From Washington DC to New River Gorge 

If you are looking for a quiet escape into nature then a weekend getaway in West Virginia is going to take you on an off the beaten path road trip. This easy drive from Washington DC will take you through the windy roads, lush mountains, and fresh air of the Mountain State.

It will take you roughly 4-5 hours to get to Monongahela National Forest from DCA Reagan National Airport. You can complete this entire road trip in 2-3 days.

Day 1: Start your drive in the northern region of West Virginia i.e. cutting through the Monongahela National Forest, after visiting Blackwater Falls State Park or Seneca Rocks if you love hiking.

Then head on south to route 28 towards the town of Greenbank and Cass continuing on until you hit New River Gorge. 

Day 2 : The town of Cass is known for its scenic railway ride in autumn and skiing in winter. Greenbank is best known for its National Radio Astronomy Observatory which is a fun stop for kids and science lovers.

Our favorite season to visit WV is Autumn to see the gorgeous fall foliage. One of the most scenic Fall drives in West Virginia is the Highland Scenic Highway which is also known as State Route 150. It’s a 23 mile long American scenic byway.

Summer would be another good season to visit especially if you are considering camping outdoors. 

Day 3: If you are the adventurous type then you must go White Water rafting in New River Gorge which offers one of the best class 5 rapids in the US. Do not miss the New River Gorge Bridge which is an iconic structure in West Virginia.

We recommend the Mountain Quest Inn , for a refreshing and quaint stay in West Virginia. This place is located in the middle of a working farm so expect to see horses, goats, and even llamas. But the best part about this place is its extensive two-story home library.

Stay at Mountain Quest Inn

Charleston, SC to Savannah, GA

By Brittany from Travel by Brit

• Number of Days : 6 days
• Route : From Charleston, South Carolina, to Savannah, Georgia

The drive from Charleston, South Carolina, to Savannah, Georgia, is one of the most charming road trips on the east coast.

Since these cities are just over 100 miles apart, you’re able to spend the majority of your road trip exploring these captivating, historic cities rather than countless hours in the car.

Six days is the perfect amount for your southeastern USA road trip—three days in Charleston and three days in Savannah. Both cities are drenched in unique history, serve up some incredible southern cuisine, and have tons of interesting activities to enjoy.

Day 1 – 3: Spend 3 days in Charleston. Immerse yourself in Civil War and WWII history at the Fort Sumter National Monument or Patriot’s Point. And then explore Pineapple Fountain and Rainbow Row.

On day 2, take a day trip from Charleston to Boone Hall Plantation or the Charleston Tea Garden.

On your final day here, relax on the beach at Kiawah Island or Folly Beach. Followed by a visit to Poogan’s Porch or FIG for a delicious meal.

Stay in the heart of Downtown Charleston at the Mills House or The Vendue .

Day 4 to 6 : Travel to Savannah, and spend the remainder of the road trip here. Walk down to River Street to embark on a riverboat cruise adventure or indulge in authentic, freshly-baked beignets at Huey’s.

Submerge yourself in Savannah’s spooky history by going on a haunted ghost tour.

And don’t forget to stroll through Savannah’s 22 squares—including Forsyth Park.

Enjoy an unforgettable southern dining experience at The Olde Pink House. Or relish an ice cream cone at Leopold’s—Savannah’s oldest and most iconic ice cream parlor.

Stay at the haunted Hamilton Turner Inn (Walt Disney’s inspiration for the Haunted Mansion in Disneyland!), or the DeSoto Savannah for remarkable views of Historic Savannah.

• Charleston, SC: The Mills House or The Vendue
• Savannah, GA : Hamilton Turner Inn or the DeSoto

We hope you found this post on USA East Coast road trip routes helpful, and are ready to hit the road!

Other USA posts:

• USA West Coast Road trips
• Road Trips from San Francisco
• Northern California road trip itineraries
• Landmarks to historic site items for California bucket list
• Best Airbnbs in the US

Pin: 15 Ultimate Road Trip USA East Coast | East Coast Road Trip Ideas

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 40+ countries.

She has lived in Portugal, Canada and India.

Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world particularly Europe, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. 

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I read your blog found it very informative. Next year we are planning for 1 month east coast trip for family of 4. Just wanted to know if you could plan, or suggest some itenary for us including some main attractions, country side or national park Thanks

So good to hear, Bhavesh. In one month, you can surely combine a city, nature, and beach vacation. The 10 day Washington D.C. to Philadelphia, to New York City itinerary sample is a good one that covers the iconic sites/landmarks. Then head to Georgia (North Georgia Mountains Road Trip) and finish the trip in Florida (Everglades National Park).

Or you can do Washington D.C. to Philadelphia, to New York City itinerary with Boston + Acadia National Park, Maine.

Hope this helps!

Thanks for sharing your experience information.

thanks for sharing this with us about tour .

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New England Wanderlust

Connecticut , Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire , New York , Rhode Island , Vermont  ·  March 30, 2022

34 Awesome Road Trips From Boston & Best Itineraries (2024)

Boston is an amazing starting point for adventures all over New England and the Northeast. With so many options to visit tons of nearby coastal towns, exciting cities and plenty of quaint, charming villages, there are endless possibilities for road trips from Boston. And since I’ve been road-tripping and traveling all over the Northeast for over 10 years now, I know all the destinations that are worth your time.

This list includes destinations that are all individually under 6 hours from Boston, and if you’re looking for road trip itineraries that combine destinations from this list, be sure to scroll to the end for suggested itineraries to make the most of your road trip!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

🚙 Need to rent a car for your epic road trip? I’ve got you covered! Click here to check the best prices on Discover Cars!

Best Road Trips From Boston

For this list, I’ve broken down the destinations into four categories: Coastal, City, Charming Towns and Luxury Getaways. For each destination, I’ve also included the time it takes to get there from Boston, highlights of the best things to do, what to expect once there, and nearby things to do.

Coastal Road Trip Destinations From Boston

1. plymouth, ma.

Distance From Boston: 40-50 minutes

If you’re looking for a quick, easy getaway from city life in Boston, a little road trip to Plymouth is a fun way to do that. While the town is known for its history dating back to the early 1600s, they are also lots of outdoor activities, parks and beaches, and combine that with a small-town feel, Plymouth makes for a lovely little escape from Boston.

Best things to do in Plymouth:

• Plimoth Patuxet Museum is a living replica of the original pilgrim colony settlement. If you’re a history buff, this is a must-see. You can even climb aboard the Mayflower II, an exact replica of the ship that brought the pilgrims to Plymouth.
• Plymouth Long Beach is a 3-mile long stretch of public beach that’s perfect for getting out by the water.
• Plymouth Farmer’s Market is held every Thursday from May through October, and was Yankee Magazine editor’s pick for best Farmer’s Market in 2018.
• Brewster Gardens is a tranquil, waterfront park that’s sure to invite lots of relaxation.
• Walk around the charming downtown to visit the shops and restaurants,
• Pop into Dirty Water Distillery for an artisanal spirits tasting.
• Go on a whale watch tour with Captain John’s Boat Tours .
• Spend the day getting pampered at Mirbeau Resort & Spa , and even stay for lunch or dinner, or the night for the ultimate day of relaxation.

Click here to book your stay at Mirbeau Resort & Spa!

Psst! I have an entire post on visiting Plymouth, MA , if you need more ideas!

2. Cape Cod, MA

Distance From Boston: 1-2.5 hours, depending on where you to choose to go on Cape Cod.

With over 500 miles of shoreline to explore, Cape Cod is the ultimate beach road trip from Boston because you can get there in about 2 hours and feel like you’re in a whole other world. There are 15 towns in Cape Cod to choose from for your visit, and more beaches than anyone can count. Fill your days being ocean-side, exploring beautiful little coastal towns, eating fresh seafood and taking in amazing sunsets.

Best Things To Do on Cape Cod :

• Visit The Cape Cod National Seashore
• Explore Chatham’s downtown
• Visit Provincetown and the Pilgrim Monument
• For more on the best things to do on the Cape, click the link below for my detailed travel guide.

You may also enjoy:

• Can’t Miss Things To Do When Visiting Cape Cod For The First Time
• Best Things To Do On Cape Cod For Adults
• Best Towns To Stay In On Cape Cod
• What To Pack For Cape Cod
• Unique Things To Do On Cape Cod

3. Nantucket, MA

Distance From Boston: 2-3 hours, which includes time to park at the ferry terminal, and ride the ferry.

Nantucket is a gorgeous island off the coast of Cape Cod bursting with charm and natural beauty. A day trip to Nantucket is common while visiting Cape Cod, but staying overnight for a night or two would be the best way to make the most of your road trip from Boston. This is a great island to explore if you’re looking for stunning beaches and a beautiful downtown area.

To get to Nantucket, you’ll need to take the ferry from Hyannis on Cape Cod. From there, you can choose between Hyline Cruises or Steamship Authority to get to Nantucket.

Best Things To Do on Nantucket:

• Explore the shops and restaurants in the main town.
• Visit Brant Point Lighthouse.
• Rent a moped to explore the local beaches and towns.
• For more amazing things to do on Nantucket, click the link below for my detail travel guide on a Nantucket day trip.
• The Best Nantucket Day Trip Travel Guide
• How Many Days Do You Need On Nantucket + Suggested Itineraries
• How To Visit All The Nantucket Lighthouses

4. Martha’s Vineyard, MA

Martha’s Vineyard is the other island off the coast of Cape Cod, and it’s more popular as an overnight destination, versus a day trip because it’s bigger. Comprised of 6 beautiful towns, Martha’s Vineyard is home to beautiful beaches, quaint Main Streets for shopping and dramatic cliff-lined shores.

To get to Martha’s Vineyard, you’ll need to take a ferry from either Woods Hole or Hyannis (both terminals located on Cape Cod). There is no benefit to picking one over the other, and it’s best to just pick whichever location is more convenient for you (usually it’s Hyannis for most people).

Best Things To Do on Martha’s Vineyard:

• Gingerbread Cottages in Oak Bluffs
• Edgartown downtown and lighthouse
• Aquinnah Cliffs and Gay Head Lighthouse
• South/Katama Beach
• For more information on visiting Martha’s Vineyard, click the link below for my guide on deciding between Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard for a day trip.

You may also find these Martha’s Vineyard posts helpful:

• Is Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard Better For A Day Trip?
• The Ultimate Martha’s Vineyard Day Trip Guide
• How To See Martha’s Vineyard Without A Car

5. Marblehead, MA

Distance From Boston: 40-50 minutes.

Marblehead is an adorable little coastal town along the North Shore of Massachusetts, and a very quick road trip from Boston. This is the place to come if you’re looking for historical homes, small-town charm, great seafood, dramatic, rocky coastline and options for beaches.

Best Things To Do in Marblehead, MA:

• Marblehead Lighthouse & Chandler Hovey Park
• Self-guided historical home walking tour.
• Take in the views at Castle Hill Rock.
• For more information on the best things to do in Marblehead, click the link before for my detailed travel guide.

Click here to read even more awesome things to do in Marblehead!

6. Salem, MA

Distance From Boston: 30-40 minutes.

Salem is another little coastal town along the North Shore of Massachusetts, and is known for being the premier New England destination for all things spooky. While visiting Salem in October is definitely a bucket list-worthy goal, it’s actually a really wonderful town to visit all year round. It’s very walkable with a variety of things to do, and makes for a great day trip, or a weekend getaway.

Best Things To Do in Salem, MA:

• Winter Harbor Park and Lighthouse
• Salem Witch Trials Memorial
• Salem Maritimes National Historic Site
• Essex Street Pedestrian Mall
• House of Seven Gables
• Peabody Essex Museum

Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip , and the best time to visit Salem if you need more information 😉

7. Rockport, MA

Distance From Boston: 50-60 minutes.

Rockport is one of my favorite coastal towns in all of New England. It has so much character, wonderful shops and restaurants, and really invites you to slow down a bit to take it all in. It’s a small town, and can be done in a day, but a weekend here would be a very relaxing road trip from Boston.

Best Things To Do in Rockport, MA:

• Visit Motif 1, the most painted building in New England, if not the country!
• Go for a scenic walk or hike at Halibut Point State Park.
• Meander through the shops on Bear Skin Neck.
• For more things to do in Rockport and the North Shore region, click the links below for my detailed travel guides.

Click here for more amazing things to do in Rockport!

Click here to read my travel guide on the best things to do on Cape Ann!

8. Newburyport, MA

Newburyport is a delightful little coastal town in Massachusetts that has a very traditional New England feel with beautiful homes at every turn, and an adorable little downtown area and waterfront park. Newburyport is also home to Plum Island, which is a gorgeous part of town with amazing beaches and wildlife sanctuaries.

Best Things To Do in Newburyport, MA:

• Visit Oldies Marketplace to look for antiques and treasures.
• Meander the streets of downtown to explore the beautiful storefronts.
• Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront park.
• Pack a picnic or take a nature walk at Maudslay State Park , which has over 500 acres to explore.
• Head out on the open waters with Yankee Clipper Tours , and cruise around the Merrimack River and Newburyport Harbor.
• Drive over to Plum Island to visit Plums Island Beach, buy some handmade soaps at Plum Island Soap Co. , and walk the stunning nature trails at the Parker River National Wildlife Refugee .

Click here to read my full guide to visiting Newburyport & Plum Island!

9. Block Island, RI

Distance From Boston: 3-3.5 hours, which includes time to park at the ferry terminal, and ride the ferry.

Block Island is a beautiful island off the coast of Rhode Island with gorgeous beaches, walking trails, water activities, salt marshes, great restaurants and is overall a wonderful place to relax while appreciating the outdoors. This actually might be one of my top underdog suggestions for a weekend getaway from Boston.

It actually reminds me a bit of Prince Edward Island, so if you’re looking to live out your Anne of Green Gables dreams, but can’t make it to Canada, this is a great place to do that. There’s even a lovely hotel on the island called Avonlea.

To get to the island, you’ll need to drive to the Pt. Judith ferry terminal in Rhode Island. For more information on the ferry, click here .

Best Things To Do on Block Island, RI:

• Take in the views at Mohegan Bluffs.
• Rent a moped to explore the entire island.
• Spend some time swimming at Mansion Beach.
• Visit the island’s two lighthouses.
• Have lunch with a water view at The Oar .

Click here to read all my tips for taking a Block Island day trip!

10. Newport, RI

Distance From Boston: 1.5 hours, but always anticipate extra traffic crossing the Newport bridge.

Newport is a stunning coastal city in Rhode Island that’s the perfect destination for sailing, shopping, dining and being by the water. Even though it’s technically a city, I wanted to include it in the coastal destinations group because it definitely feels more like a resort waterfront town than a city.

With so many things to do, you could easily spend a weekend here, but Newport will also work for a day trip.

Best Things To Do in Newport, RI:

• Walk along Cliff Walk for amazing coastal views.
• Visit Bowen’s Wharf for shopping and dining.
• Grab a lobster roll at the Newport Lobster Shack .
• Walk over to Goat Island to see the lighthouse and take in views of the Newport Bridge.
• Sail around Narrangansett Bay with Sightsailing of Newport .
• Visit the unique shops along Thames Street.
• Grab lunch and cocktails at The Lawn at Castle Hill Inn , overlooking the water. Better yet, book an overnight stay for the ultimate Newport experience!

Click here to book your stay at The Castle Hill Inn in Newport .

Click here to read all my tips for taking a Newport, RI day trip!

Click here to read about all the best things to do in Newport, RI in the winter!

11. Mystic, CT

Distance From Boston: 1.5 hours

This adorable little town sits along Mystic River, and has an awesome mix of preserved maritimes history, small-town charm and nature. While Mystic is mostly visited for its quaint, waterfront downtown, it’s also home to parts of two bordering towns, Stonington and Groton, giving you opportunity to explore a few different coastal Connecticut destinations during your visit.

Best Things To Do in Mystic, CT:

• See penguins, beluga whales, sharks and sea lions at the Mystic Aquarium .
• Learn all about maritimes history at the Mystic Seaport Museum and Village , which is regarded as one of the best, if not the best, Maritimes museums in the country.
• Hit the trails at Bluff Point State Park.
• Take a sunset or moonlit cruise with Poet’s Lounge Sailing Charters .
• Grab a warm lobster roll, which originated in CT, at Ford’s Lobster in nearby Noank.

Click here to read about all the best things to do in Mystic, CT!

12. The Hamptons, NY

Distance From Boston: 5.5 hours if driving the whole way, 6 hours if you drive to New London, CT to take the ferry.

The Hamptons needs no introduction, as it’s become a famous summer destination in New York thanks to many celebrities calling it a secondary home. Sitting along the Long Island sound, you can expect gorgeous beaches, amazing shopping and restaurants, specialty food markets and farmer’s markets, wineries and plenty of opportunity for rest and relaxation.

The Best Things To Do in The Hamptons:

• Have a beach day and watch the surfers at Coopers Beach in Southampton.
• Go vineyard hopping, and taste some of the local wines. Channing Daughters Winery and Wölffer Estates are two great options.
• Take in the views at Montauk Lighthouse.
• Enjoy an afternoon of rest and restoration at the Montauk Salt Caves .
• Have some amazing and fresh seafood at Bostwick’s Chowder House in East Hampton.
• Rent a bike and ride along Gin Lane in Southampton for incredible views of the ocean, and to see some amazing houses.

13. Ogunquit, ME

Distance From Boston: 1 hour and 15 minutes

One of my favorite beach towns in all of New England is Ogunquit, which is one of the best places to visit in Maine in the summer , but it’s really fun in spring and fall, too. Offering both dramatic and rocky coastline that Maine is famous for, as well as a long, sandy beach that’s perfect for swimming, you’ll get the best of both worlds here. Ogunquit’s town is entirely walkable, so once you drive in, you’ll be able to leave your car behind and get almost everywhere by foot. There’s an amazing downtown scene with plenty of shops and restaurants, and you’re never that far from Ogunquit Beach.

Best Things To Do in Ogunquit, ME:

• Walk along Marginal Way, where you’ll get the most amazing views of the rocky coastline.
• Visit Perkins Cove to enjoy its charming shops and restaurants.
• Spend plenty of time at Ogunquit Beach, one of the best beaches in Maine.
• For more information on things to do in Ogunquit, click the link below for my detailed travel guide.

Click here to read about more amazing things to do in Ogunquit!

14. Kennebunkport, ME

Distance From Boston: 1 hour and 25 minutes

Just a short distance from Ogunquit is Kennebunkport, so these two destinations could easily be combined, and both are worth your time. Kennebunkport is full of character, and can be visited as either a day trip, or a weekend getaway, from Boston. Offering both beaches and a wonderful downtown scene, this is a great place to relax, unwind and enjoy being by the water.

Best Things To Do in Kennebunkport, ME:

• Visit Gooch’s Beach for a walk along the shore, or go for a swim.
• Have an authentic lobsterman experience with Rugosa Lobster Tours .
• Walk around the downtown and Dock Square shops.
• Grab an artisanal ice cream cone at Rococo Ice Cream .
• Have some craft cocktails and beer at Batson River Brewing and Distillery .
• Walk along Parson’s Way for amazing views of the dramatic coastline.
• Grab fresh seafood takeout from The Clam Shack .

Click here to see why Kennebunkport is one of the best Christmas towns in New England!

15. Bar Harbor/Acadia National Park

Distance From Boston: 4 hours and 45 minutes

One of the absolute best places to visit in all of Maine is Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, and this will make an epic road trip from Boston. Bar Harbor is the adjacent town to Acadia, and where most people stay when visiting the park. Bar Harbor is a fun destination on its own because it’s full of character, and has great restaurants, and a beautiful harbor-side walking path and park.

Acadia National Park is one of the top destinations in all of New England, providing over 120 miles of hiking trails, and countless opportunities to take in some of the best and most incredible coastline views in the entire Northeast. In my opinion, this is one of the best roads trips from Boston you can take.

Best Things To Do in Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park:

• Walk along the Ocean Path trail inside Acadia, which is a flat, easy path along Shore Road that provides the most payoff for minimal effort when it comes to the most famous views in the park.
• Have lunch and popovers at Jordan Pond House inside Acadia, which offers views of the lawn and Jordan Pond.
• Drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain inside Acadia for sunrise or sunset.
• Explore Bar Harbor’s downtown.
• Take a leisurely walk along Shore Path in Bar Harbor for the best views of the harbor.
• Visit Bass Harbor Lighthouse inside Acadia.

Tip : You’ll need to purchase a park pass to enter any attractions inside Acadia National Park. Park passes can be purchased online in advance by clicking here .

Psst! I have some posts on Acadia that you may find helpful, including my Acadia National Park Itinerary , and the Best Time To Visit Acadia National Park .

Luxury Road Trip Destinations From Boston

These destinations don’t have to be all about luxury, but since it’s nice to treat yourself every now and then, I wanted to include a few of my favorite luxury resorts that are easy road trips from Boston. If all you’re looking for is a little R&R and some serious pampering without having to leave the resort grounds, these are amazing places to visit.

16. Cliff House in Cape Neddick, ME

If you’re looking for the ultimate coastal Maine getaway to fully relax and recharge, then Cliff House will be the perfect road trip from Boston for you. This oceanfront resort sits atop 70 acres of cliffs, and offers incredible amenities that will allow you fully emerse yourself in Maine’s natural beauty without having to go far. Almost every square foot of this property has an ocean view, so there’s no way you can be stressed during your visit.

What To Expect During Your Stay At Cliff House:

• Beautifully-appointed rooms with a private terrace, and your choice of partial or full ocean views. Some rooms are also ocean-front.
• Complimentary coffee, tea and water stations on each floor.
• A full-service spa.
• Three oceanfront restaurants and a coffee cafe.
• Manicured gardens and pathways for relaxing walks.
• Two outdoor pools, two indoor pools and a hot tub.
• On-site shopping.

Click here to book your stay at Cliff House!

17. Ocean House in Westerly, RI

Distance From Boston: 1 hour and 45 minutes

For one of the very best luxury experiences in all of New England, Ocean House in Westerly, RI is a truly amazing destination. With the entire properly overlooking the Block Island Sound, it’s guaranteed you’ll be able to relax during your stay. Travel + Leisure has even named Ocean House as one of the top 100 hotels in the entire world.

What To Expect During Your Stay At Ocean House:

• Freshly designed and elegant coastal New England rooms and suites.
• Complimentary use of the hotels Mercedes-Benz convertibles for self-guided tours.
• Complimentary activities within the resort, such as daily yoga and cooking classes.
• Valet parking included in your room rate.
• Four on-site restaurants, and lobster dinners on the lawn during the summer.
• An on-site spa.
• Beautifully manicured lawns with yard games.
• Complimentary refreshments throughout the day.

Click here to book your stay at the Ocean House!

18. Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, NY

Distance From Boston: 3 hours and 45 minutes

If you’re looking for the ultimate road trip from Boston that combines hiking in the mountains with total relaxation, then Mohonk Mountain House is perfect for you. Located in the small college town of New Paltz, Mohonk Mountain House is right in the heart of the Hudson Valley of New York, and is surrounded by 40,000 acres of forest.

Overviews of the resort have been used in the Amazon Prime series Upload , and has long been rumored to be the inspiration behind Stephen King’s The Shining . But don’t let that scare you away! That only thing that will actually scare you once here is how amazing the views are.

If an overnight stay doesn’t work with your plans, guests can also purchase a day pass to the resort grounds, which allows you access to the hiking trails. This is a great way to enjoy the scenery without committing to an overnight stay.

What To Expect During Your Stay At Mohonk Mountain House:

• Traditionally-decorated rooms and suites that overlook the mountains. Most rooms also come with private balconies and rocking chairs.
• Lake Mohonk on the resort grounds.
• An all-inclusive stay where breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, as well as all outdoor activities such as kayaks, row boats and canoes, are all included in the room rate.
• 85 miles of hiking trails right outside your door.
• Farm-to-table dining.
• Benches and chairs situated all over the resort grounds for moments of rest, and to clear your mind.

Click here to book your stay at Mohonk Mountain House!

Click here to read my detailed review of a Mohonk Mountain House Day Pass!

19. Mirbeau Spa in Rhinebeck, NY

Distance From Boston: 3 hours and 10 minutes

Mirbeau has a few locations throughout the Northeast, but my favorite of them all is in Rhinebeck, NY, a beautiful little town in the Hudson Valley. This particular Mirbeau Spa is one of the newer additions to their family, and is decorated in a modern, Parisian style, which makes it feel like a unique destination.

The spas at Mirbeau are really amazing. I’ve personally had massages and treatments at different locations, and they’ve always been consistent in quality (and, of course, relaxation). Guests are invited to walk around in robes, including at lunch, and the on-site hotel allows you to continue your relaxation journey into the evening for the perfect overnight stay.

What To Expect During Your Stay At Mirbeau in Rhinebeck, NY:

• A serene, calm spa atmosphere throughout the entire grounds.
• A relaxation room, aqua terrace and steam facility within the spa.
• Different spa packages to customize your stay that include dining options to make your visit stress-free.
• Luxurious and Parisian-inspired accommodations with options including in-room fireplaces and soaking tubs.

Click here to book your stay at Mirbeau in Rhinbeck!

Charming Small Town Road Trip Destinations From Boston

If you’re looking to visit some of the most charming towns in New England and New York for your road trip, I’ve got your covered! Here are the most adorable little towns to visit that make awesome road trips from Boston.

20. Saratoga Springs, NY

Distance From Boston: 3 hours and 15 minutes

While technically a city, Saratoga Springs’ historic downtown feels very much like a quaint village. Located in Upstate, NY and known for its horse racing track season, this destination has so much more to offer including a wonderful Main Street for shopping and dining, gorgeous parks, beautiful and historic architecture and live entertainment.

Best Things To Do in Saratoga Springs, NY:

• Walk around the grounds of Saratoga Spa State Park, which is a National Historic Landmark. You can enjoy a round of golf at an 18-hole championship course, have a picnic by the reflecting pool and admire the architecture of the Hall of Springs.
• July – Labor Day, visit the Race Track , and even try your hand at placing bets on the winner!
• Stroll through Congress Park, and find the mineral springs to taste the local water.
• Enjoy a healing bath at the Roosevelt Baths & Spa . The spa staff is trained on how to draw the perfect bath at just the right temperature, and the minerals in the waters have been said to have health benefits such as reducing sinus congestion and arthritis symptoms.
• Take in a live show at SPAC , one of the the country’s most renowned outdoor concert venues.
• Walk up and down Broadway, downtown’s main street, to visit the local shops and restaurants.
• Grab delicious cocktails with lunch or dinner at Morrissey’s Lounge & Bistro inside the famed Adelphi Hotel. Better yet, book an overnight stay at this Gilded Age-era boutique hotel, located in the heart of Saratoga’s downtown.

Click here to book your stay at the Adelphi Hotel in Saratoga Springs!

21. Skaneateles, NY

Distance From Boston: 5 hours and 20 minutes

Skaneateles is a lakeside town in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate, NY, and is a wonderful place to visit, especially in the Summer. With Skaneateles Lake right in the heart of downtown, and an adorable Main Street with really nice shops and restaurants, the quaintness of the town is perfect for rest and relaxation, but also offers plenty to do to keep from ever being bored.

Best Things To Do in Skaneateles, NY:

• Walk around Main Street to visit the boutiques.
• Sit and admire the views of the lake from the town’s many waterfront areas.
• Visit Anyela’s Vineyards to enjoy a tasting, or sip on a glass of wine and take in the peaceful views of the vineyards.
• Head out onto the lake for a boat tour.
• Grab dinner and drinks at the Sherwood Inn , located right in the heart of town, and just across the street from the lake.
• Spend the day getting pampered at Mirbeau Inn & Spa , the original Mirbeau location, which is home to a Monet-inspired garden and bridge.

Click here to book your stay at Mirbeau Inn & Spa in Skaneateles!

Click here to read more suggestions on the best things to do in Skaneateles, NY!

22. Lake Placid, NY

Distance From Boston: 5 hours

Known for hosting two Olympic games, Lake Placid in the Adirondack region of Upstate NY has so much more to offer (although, the Olympic sites are definitely worth visiting!). I personally love visiting Lake Placid in the winter because the alpine-inspired town really seems to come alive with apres-ski vibes, but it’s really a great destination all year round. While in Lake Placid, you’ll be surrounded by mountains and fresh air, and feel like you’ve truly escaped from every day life.

Best Things To Do in Lake Placid, NY:

• Walk around Mirror Lake, located in the heart of Lake Placid’s downtown.
• In the winter, enjoy skiing at Whiteface Mountain , and ice skating and a Toboggan Chute on Mirror Lake.
• Enjoy the miles of hiking trails in the nearby mountains.
• Walk around the alpine-inspired downtown village to visit the quaint shops.
• In the summer, go for a swim in Mirror Lake from the public beach area.
• Visit the Olympic sites, including the ski jump, ice arena and the Lake Placid Olympic Museum .
• Walk around High Falls Gorge, a 22-acre nature park with waterfalls.
• Grab drinks and lunch or dinner at The Cottage, a restaurant at Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa that sits right on Mirror Lake. Better yet, book an overnight stay, and also enjoy the on-site spa for the ultimate Lake Placid getaway!

Click here to book your stay at the Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa in Lake Placid .

Click here to read my post on all the best things to do in Lake Placid in the fall!

23. Hudson, NY

Distance From Boston: 2 hours and 45 minutes

Located in the Hudson Valley of New York, Hudson is known as being incredibly charming, and one of the best destinations for antiquing in the area. This is a great little town to visit if you’re looking to relax, enjoy a small-town atmosphere and see where the day takes you. Hudson is also a great destination if you’re looking to explore the entire Hudson Valley region.

Best Things To Do in Hudson, NY:

• Antiquing! There are countless antique shops in Hudson, and you’ll definitely want to check out The Antique Warehouse , which has over 300,000 sq. feet of treasures.
• Stroll down Warren Street, where most of the storefronts can be found.
• Take a boat cruise along the Hudson River with Hudson Cruises , which offers tours to the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse, and even murder mystery cruises!
• The Hudson Farmer’s Market is regarded as one of the best in the region, and is open every Saturday in-season, and also has a winter location February-April.
• Tour the local art galleries.
• Go for a nature walk in the Greenport Conservation Area, which is home to over 7 miles of trails, and is walkable from downtown Hudson.

Click here to read my post on the best things to do in Upstate New York in the fall!

24. Manchester, VT

This small little town in Southern Vermont is the perfect place to disconnect and relax. As you cross the New York/Vermont border, you’ll begin to see the tall mountains all around you, and instantly feel more at peace. In fact, you’ll be able to see the surrounding mountains from everywhere in downtown Manchester. And with everything to do from shopping and dining to hiking and nature walks, you’re sure to find something that everyone in your group will enjoy.

Best Things To Do in Manchester, VT:

• Hike or drive up Mt. Equinox, the tallest mountain in the Taconic Range, and enjoy the incredible views from above.
• Browse through Northshire Bookstore , an amazing independent bookstore that’s been in business since 1976. Here, you’ll find new and used books, a wonderful children’s section, and unique Vermont-inspired gifts and souvenirs.
• Visit Hildene , the Lincoln family estate, where visitors can tour the gardens, walking trails, farm land and indoor exhibits, and enjoy sweeping views of the Vermont countryside.
• Rent a tube at Vermont River Runners and take a relaxing water tube ride along the Battenkill River, which is perfect for a warm summer day.
• Grab a sandwich as big as your head at Zoey’s Deli . I also love their homemade chips!
• Hike the Lye Brook Falls trails to visit a beautiful waterfall. The trailhead is a short 5-minute drive from town center.
• Go for a dip in the Dorset Marble Quarry for a unique swimming experience!
• After your swim, visit the Dorset Union Store , a quintessential Vermont country store.

Click here for an awesome Vermont covered bridges tour itinerary!

25. Woodstock, VT

Distance From Boston: 2.5 hours

Of all the Vermont towns on this list, I think Woodstock might be my favorite. I love them all, but there’s something about Woodstock that just screams New England charm, and perfectly balances being a town that caters to tourists, while not losing any of the local character. It’s one of those idyllic towns you’ll daydream about moving to.

Best Things To Do in Woodstock, VT:

• Walk through the truly adorable village and enjoy the local shops and coffee cafes.
• Head over to the Woodstock Middle Covered Bridge, located right in the village, for a picture-perfect Vermont moment.
• Get your hands muddy with a pottery workshop at Farmhouse Pottery .
• Drive to nearby Quechee and visit the Simon Pearce Restaurant & Mill , and take in a live glass-blowing demonstration, as well as lunch overlooking the gorge.
• Head over to Quechee Gorge Village after Simon Pearce for some antiquing.
• Visit Billings Farm & Museum to tour a working dairy farm, gardens and orchards, and see live demonstrations. The grounds here are truly spectacular!
• Hike Mount Tom for stunning views of Woodstock from above.
• Best Places To Stay In Vermont In The Fall
• Best Things To Do In Woodstock, VT
• Best Winter Getaways In New England

26. Stowe, VT

Distance From Boston: 3 hours and 20 minutes

Stowe is an adorable little village in Northern Vermont that I love to visit, and it always puts a smile on my face. Even though it’s a well-known ski destination in the winter months, it’s a great little place to visit year-round will lots of outdoor activities and perfect Vermont scenery all over, including some beautiful covered bridges.

Best Things To Do in Stowe, VT:

• Hike Mount Mansfield, the highest mountain in Vermont, or drive the auto road to the summit.
• See if you believe in ghosts at Emily’s Covered Bridge. Legend says it’s haunted by a girl who hung herself on the bridge after her boyfriend never came to meet her.
• Walk the Stowe Recreation Path, a 5.5-mile long paved path that goes through beautiful scenery throughout the village. The path can be accessed from several locations in the village.
• Connect to the Quiet Path along the Rec Path, which is reserved for walkers only (meaning, no bikes wizzing by you). It meanders through parts of Mayo Farm, and is a very relaxing way to spend an afternoon.
• Go hiking at Smuggler’s Notch State Park.
• Visit the nearby Ben & Jerry’s Factory for a tour.
• Explore Sterling Falls Gorge.
• In the winter, hit the slopes at Stowe Mountain Ski Resort.
• Pick up some chocolates from Lake Champlain Chocolates.
• Best Things To Do In Stowe, VT
• Best Stops To Make When Driving From Boston to Stowe, VT
• Best Things To Do In Vermont In The Winter

27. Greenwich, CT

Distance From Boston: 3 hours

Greenwich is an absolutely beautiful town that sits right on the border of New York, and also very accessible to Manhattan. I love coming to this idyllic little town when I want a day of relaxing, shopping, dining, being outside, visiting the beach and enjoying the gorgeous scenery.

Best Things To Do in Greenwich, CT:

• Shop the stores along Greenwich Avenue.
• Enjoy a serene walk through the Donald M. Kendall Sculpture Gardens in nearby Purchase, NY.
• Meander through Montgomery Pinetum, a public park that’s very relaxing, and also has beautiful ponds, nature trails and gardens with an educational center and greenhouse.
• Head to the Lobster Bin for an amazing lobster roll on-the-go.
• Spend some time at the beaches along Greenwich Point Park.
• Admire the architecture of the historic district buildings.

28. Jackson, NH

Let’s head to the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire! One of the best towns to stay in is Jackson, where you’ll find a lovely downtown and Main Street, an iconic red covered bridge, and endless opportunities to explore the White Mountains region, including lots of hiking and outdoor activities. While it’s most popular during the winter for skiing, and the fall for foliage season, Jackson can be enjoyed year-round.

Best Things To Do in Jackson, NH:

• Visit Honeymoon Bridge, the town’s famous red covered bridge.
• Drive to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in New England.
• Hike the Glen Ellis Falls Trail.
• Explore the downtown shops and restaurants.
• In the winter, go skiing at Black Mountain. In the summer, the mountain offers horseback riding and lots of hiking trails.

You may also like: The best things to do in New England in the fall!

City Life Road Trip Destinations From Boston

Even though you’re road-tripping from a city already, it’s still exciting to explore a new one. There are quite a few cities that make for amazing road trips from Boston, and many of them can be combined with other destinations from this list to offer the best of city life, and coastal or small-town living.

29. Portsmouth, NH

Distance From Boston: 1 hour

This charming little city is just a short drive from Boston, and definitely feels more like a town than a city. Portsmouth is a port-side city with a gorgeous downtown filled with quaint shops and boutiques, and is known as being a huge foodie destination. This is a great city to visit if you’re looking for a lot of character, and lots of options when it comes to being outside, dining and shopping.

Best Things To Do in Portsmouth, NH:

• Grab some fresh and delicious pastries from Elephantine Bakery , and be sure to enjoy them just outside the cafe in the most adorable little courtyard.
• Shop the boutiques in downtown Portsmouth.
• Walk along Prescott Park, which has over 10 acres of waterfront gardens and paths, and is home to live entertainment in the summer months.
• Take a dip in the water at Great Island Common Park.
• Go brewery hopping, as Portsmouth is home to five breweries.
• Enjoy a drink at the Book & Bar , a combined bookstore, cafe and bar.
• Head out onto the water with Portsmouth Harbor Cruises .
• Visit Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse.

30. Providence, RI

Providence is the capital of Rhode Island, and also home to famed schools Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design. It’s also a really fun city to be a tourist! With Providence River running through the city, you still have opportunities to feel like you’re connected to nature, and with tons of restaurants, shops, nightlife and history, this destination makes for an amazing road trip from Boston.

Best Things To Do in Providence, RI:

• Visit The Arcade , the country’s very first shopping mall designed with Greek revival architecture, and now home to some awesome boutiques and art galleries.
• Visit the Roger Williams Park Zoo , which is the third oldest zoo in the country, where guests can feed giraffes and other farm animals, and see over 160 different species while visiting. You can also jump on the Explore and Soar ride, which is a fun zip ride and train excursion through the forests.
• Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Providence Riverwalk.
• During the summer, experience WaterFire, where braziers are set with bonfires in the middle of the river.
• Take in the exhibits at the RISD Museum of Art.
• Take a Venetian gondola ride along the river at Waterplace Park.
• Do a self-guided historical walking tour along Benefit Street to see some of the city’s most historic houses and buildings.
• Take a boat tour along the Providence River.

Click here to read my post on the best day trips from Providence!

31. Portland, ME

Portland is an exciting waterfront city in Maine that sits on a peninsula along Casco Bay, and provides the best of both worlds as far as being a city destination that’s also coastal. With things to do outdoors along the dramatic coastline, to an amazing restaurant and food scene, Portland has a little something for everyone during your road trip from Boston.

Best Things To Do in Portland, ME:

• Portland Head Lighthouse is a must! It’s the most famous lighthouse in Maine, and one of the most iconic in all of New England. Nearby, you can also visit Spring Point Ledge Light and Bug Light, and do a mini lighthouse tour without leaving the city!
• Visit one of my favorite breweries in New England, Bissell Brothers . They also get bonus points for being close to the waterfront at Thompson’s Point.
• Meander around Old Port to see the city’s fishing industry come to life.
• Walk along the lively waterfront scene on Commercial Street for shopping, dining and water views.
• Tour the open waters on a beautiful Schooner tour with Portland Schooner . They also invite you to pack a picnic with beer and wine to enhance your experience.
• Tour the Portland Arts District, which is filled with art galleries, museums and theaters.
• Take a culinary tour of the city and learn the very best places to eat, led by a local. Click the link below to book your tour, or learn more info.

Click here to book your walking culinary tour in Portland!

You may also like:

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32. New York City

Distance From Boston: 3 hours and 45 minutes (but always allow extra time for traffic)

New York City needs no introduction, and if you’ve never been to the city that never sleeps, this is an absolute must if you’re looking into road trips from Boston. Below is a list of my absolute favorite things to do when I visit NYC, which includes the best things to do for first-time visitors.

The Best Things To Do in New York City:

• Walk the Brooklyn Bridge and visit DUMBO for sweeping views of both the Brooklyn and Manhattan bridges.
• Get bagels at Brooklyn Bagel (the best in the city).
• Visit Central park, and be sure to stop at Bow Bridge, Belvedere Castle and The Mall walkway.
• Grab a slice of pizza at Joe’s (150 E 14th St.)
• Explore the MET Museum and Cloisters.
• Take the Staten Island Ferry for views of the Statue of Liberty (this is free and way better than the official tours, which are super crowded!).
• See a broadway show.
• It’s touristy, but I love going to the top of the Empire State Building.
• Walk around the West Village for amazing streets and brownstones.

33. Burlington, VT

Burlington is a small and beautiful city in Northern Vermont that sits along Lake Champlain, and is wonderfully diverse, exuberant and also very relaxing. This is a great destination if you’re looking for a small-town feel set in a bigger city, waterfront and outdoor activities, an art scene and plenty of amazing restaurants.

Best Things To Do in Burlington, VT:

• Walk around Church Street, a pedestrian-only area lined with unique shops and restaurants.
• Stroll around the waterfront to admire the views of Lake Champlain, as well as the Burlington Breakwater Lighthouse.
• Bike the Burlington Bike Path, a beautiful path along the lake that’s over 7 miles long.
• Go kayaking or stand up paddleboarding on the lake.
• Head to nearby Shelburne to tour Shelburne Farms , one of my favorite things to do in all of Vermont! There are tons of hiking and walking trails through the 1400-acre picturesque grounds, and you can stop to sample their homemade cheeses and baked goods along the way.
• Take in the art scene on the South End, which is loaded with galleries and shops.
• Get a taste for the local brews with a Sip of Burlington Beer Tour. Join a small group for dinner, and learn from a local brew expert as you taste all the different beers that are brewed nearby. Click the link below to learn more, or book your tour.

Click here to book your Beer of Burlington experience!

34. Philadelphia, PA

Last but most definitely not least on our round-up of the best road trips from Boston, is the city of Brothery Love, Philadelphia. Philly is Pennsylvania’s largest city, and is deeply rooted in history, but there are all kinds of things to do from exciting nightlife and amazing food to parks and waterfront activities.

Best Things To Do in Philadelphia, PA:

• Run up the Rocky Steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and snap a picture with the Rocky statue. A bit touristy, but if you’re a fan of the movie, you gotta go for it.
• Speaking of the Philadelphia Museum of Art , after your Rocky moment, be sure to visit. They have an amazing American art collection, as well as works by famed impressionists Renoir, Degas and Monet.
• Tour Independence Hall, regarded as the birthplace of the United States, and where the Declaration of Independence was debated by our Founding Fathers.
• Venture just outside the city to visit Longwood Gardens, an expansive garden oasis filled with both indoor and outdoor gardens and, and beautifully designed grounds.
• Grab a Philly cheesesteak at Woodrow’s Sandwich Shop .
• Stroll along the Delaware Riverfront to explore Cherry Street and Race Street Piers, and take in amazing views of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.
• Hop on a BYOB trolley tour of the city, hosted by hilarious guides that share historic and entertaining information, and take you to some of the top sites in the city. Click the link below to learn more, or book your tour.

Click here to book your Historically Hilarious Trolley Tour in Philadelphia!

Road Trip Itinerary Options

If you’re looking to combine towns from this list into longer roads trips, or are wondering which towns are close enough to combine together to maximize your time and cover the most ground, I’ve got you covered! Below you’ll find suggested itineraries with different routes you can take while planning the best road trips from Boston.

Option 1: Massachusetts North Shore Road Trip From Boston

For this route, you’ll head north from Boston and visit the following destinations:

• Newburyport & Plum Island
• Portsmouth, NH

Days Needed For This Route: 2-4 . If you’re looking for an easy road trip from Boston with lots of options, this is an awesome route to take. You can do it in as little as 2 days for a weekend trip, or add on two additional days to take your time and explore each town.

Option 2: Cape Cod & The Islands Road Trip From Boston

For this route, you’ll head south from Boston and visit the following destinations:

• Martha’s Vineyard

Days Needed For This Route: 7-8 days. Because this route requires ferries from Cape Cod to the islands, and with Cape Cod being a larger region to explore, I recommend a week.

If you have less time, the islands could be done as day trips, and you could attempt this route in about 5 days . If you have 10 days, I would suggest spending one night in Plymouth, 5 days on Cape Cod, two nights on Nantucket and two nights on Martha’s Vineyard for the ultimate Cape Cod road trip.

Option 3: Boston To Bar Harbor Road Trip

This route will take you up the coast of Maine and stop in these destinations:

• Newburyport, MA
• Ogunquit, ME
• Kennebunkport, ME
• Portland, ME
• Bar Harbor, ME

Days Needed For This Route: 7-10 days. I suggest this much time because your final destination, Bar Harbor, is home to Acadia National Park, and there’s so much to see and do just in the park. And each stop along the way is a very worthy destination to spend at least one night in.

If you’re very short on time, you can do this route in 4 nights with this itinerary:

• On your way to Ogunquit, pass through Newburyport and spend 2-3 hours there. Arrive in Ogunquit late afternoon to spend the night.
• The next day, spend the morning in Ogunquit, and then drive to Kennebunkport to spend about 3 hours exploring there. Drive to Portland, and spend the night.
• The next day, spend your morning in Portland, and then drive to Bar Harbor to arrive by mid-afternoon. Spend 2 nights in Bar Harbor.
• Drive back to Boston.

I have a detailed Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary if you’d like more help with planning!

Option 4: Vermont Road Trip From Boston

For this route, you’ll head northwest of Boston, and drive through the best towns in Vermont from this list. You’ll cover these destinations:

• Manchester, VT
• Woodstock, VT
• Burlington, VT

Note : This route isn’t as direct as the other routes, and will include 6.5 hours of driving time to get from Boston to Burlington, stopping at the other destinations along the way. But then you can drive direct from Burlington to Boston on your way home, which will only take 3.5 hours.

Days Needed For This Route: 3-5 days . This could easily be a long weekend itinerary if you don’t stop in each town overnight, and just visit Manchester and Stowe for a few hours each. You could, of course, take your time, and do up to 5 nights for this itinerary.

Option 5: Rhode Island & Coastal Connecticut Road Trip From Boston

This route will take you southwest from Boston, and you’ll visit these destinations:

• Providence, RI
• Newport, RI
• Block Island, RI
• Westerly, RI

Days Needed For This Route: 3-6 days . This is another itinerary you could also do in a weekend if you only spend a few hours in Mystic, as a day trip from Newport, and skip going to Block Island. To visit all these destinations, you’ll need about 5 days, but 6 would be ideal to not feel rushed.

Tip : If you wanted to extend your road trip further along this route, there is a ferry that leaves from New London, CT, and goes to the Hamptons!

Option 6: Boston To New York City & The Hamptons Road Trip

This route will take you to these destinations:

• Rhinebeck, NY
• New Paltz, NY
• New York City
• The Hamptons
• Optional add-on: Philadelphia, PA

Note : The route from Boston to The Hamptons, while making all the stops in the Hudson Valley in-between, is not direct, and will take about 7.5 hours without stops, so I highly suggest you stop overnight in at least one of the towns to break up your drive. If you wanted to visit Philadelphia, this would be the route you would want to add that destination to, as you will have to drive through NYC to get there.

Days Needed For This Route: 1 week. To do this route in 7 days, I would suggest spending a few hours each in Hudson and Rhinebeck, then spend the night in New Paltz (splurging at Mohonk Mountain House is definitely worth it!). Then drive to NYC the next day, and spend 3 nights there. Then drive to The Hamptons, and spend 3 nights. If you want to add Philadelphia, you’ll want to add an extra night or two.

If you’re short on time and want to do this route in fewer days, I would suggest spending a night in the Hudson Valley (same as above), spend 3 nights in NYC, but include a day trip to The Hamptons. Or, if The Hamptons is of more interest to you, you could spend one night in NYC, and spend a night or two in The Hamptons. And then drive back to Boston.

The other option is to drive direct from Boston to New York City, and leave out the Hudson Valley towns entirely. On that route, your focus would be New York City and The Hamptons.

What Towns Are 1 Hour From Boston?

Plymouth, Salem, Rockport, Newburyport are all within an hour from Boston, and make for wonderful road trips or day trips from Boston.

Towns not mentioned on this list that are also an hour or less from Boston that are perfect for a road trip are Scituate, Gloucester, Manchester-By-The-Sea and Essex, all of which are located in Massachusetts.

What Cities Are 6 Hours From Boston?

New York City, Portsmouth, NH, Philadelphia, PA, Portland, ME, Burlington, VT and Providence, RI are all within 6 hours or less from Boston, and are all included on this list as amazing road trips from Boston.

Is Boston Close To Niagara Falls?

Boston is over 7 hours from Niagara Falls, and for that reason, didn’t make this list of road trips. But if you have extra time, it could be added to a road trip itinerary for Skaneateles, NY and the finger lakes region.

• 7-Day New England Road Trip Itinerary
• The Perfect New England Fall Road Trip
• Boston In The Fall: Fun Things To Do!
• The Best New England Gifts and Souvenirs to Look For During Your Trip
• 60+ Things To Do In Vermont
• Summer In New England: Best Places To Go & Things To Do!
• Incredible New England Resorts & Spas
• Best Time To Visit New England

That’s A Wrap On The Best Road Trips From Boston

As you can see, Boston is really an incredible gateway to all of the Northeast, making it easy to take lots of different road trips. Whether you want to explore the coast of Massachusetts and Maine, go cute-town-hopping through Vermont or visit as many cities as you can, you’re now ready to plan which of these road trips from Boston is perfect for you.

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The ultimate road trip guide to I-90, from Boston to Seattle

Over 3,000 miles of asphalt and adventure along I-90.

• Featured Trip Guides
• Interstate Highway Exit Guides

Created by Roadtrippers - June 3rd 2016

I nterstate 90 (AKA I-90), is a coast-to-coast, transcontinental freeway, and it just so happens to be America's longest Interstate Highway. Unless you've only traveled around the southern portion of America, you've probably hopped on and off I-90 at some point, whether you boarded around Boston, Chicago or Seattle. I-90 is a whopping 3,020 miles long, after all! In the east, I-90 begins right by Boston's Logan Airport, passes through the Continental Divide by Butte, Montana and ends in Seattle, near Safeco and CenturyLink Field. Whether you're taking it all the way or just for a few miles, these are a few of the best I-90 road trip stops.

Old Sturbridge Village

Sturbridge, MA

If you're starting in Boston, there are loads of places to check out from the New England Aquarium, to Faneuil Hall (where you can choose from dozens of different food vendors for a taste of Boston), to the Freedom Trail and Museum of Science. As for hotels in Boston, the Liberty Hotel is a former jail with tons of subtle nods to the building's past.

From Boston, stop at Old Sturbridge Village in Sturbridge, MA where you can literally step back in time to the 1830s. What separates this outdoor living history museum is that it happens to be the Northeast's largest living history museum. Here you can experience what life was like in the late-1700s to mid-1800s. There are over 40 original buildings, and the staff is always in costume, and focused on 100% authenticity. The best time to visit to avoid crowds is spring, and fall. In fact, autumn is the perfect time to visit to get gorgeous photos while the village is blanketed in stunning fall foliage. BONUS: If you happen to visit during Thanksgiving, they have an out-of-this-world buffet.

1 Six Flags New England

Six Flags New England is a pretty remarkable amusement park because it actually dates back to 1870, and has the distinction of being the oldest Six Flags park. The park is spread out across 235 acres and when you buy a pass to the park, you get to go to the waterpark as well. When you go be sure to ride the Thunderbolt, a wooden roller coaster that's been in operation since 1941. It's not exactly a quick stop off the highway, but it's an incredibly fun way to spend a day!

2 World's Smallest Church

Next stop off I-90 is "the world’s smallest church." Sitting atop a tiny wooden platform off Sconondoa Road in Oneida, the nondenominational Cross Island Chapel is absolutely adorable. The 3' by 6' church was built in 1989, and today sits on top of a small dock, smack dab in the middle of the pond. It's available for meditation and special occasions.

3 Jell-O Gallery Museum

From the "World's Smallest Church" to the Jell-O Gallery Museum in Le Roy, NY! Even if you're not a fan of Jell-O, every road trip needs a weird, offbeat museum detour. Here you can learn everything you ever wanted to (or never wanted to) learn about jell-o, for just $4.50 in admission. Then, while in Le Roy, eat at Smokin' Eagle for some delicious barbecue before hopping back on the highway.

Eternal Flame

Orchard Park, NY

Then head to Orchard Park, NY to see the Eternal Flame Falls. This is a pretty phenomenal natural wonder and a visit is worth the detour off I-90. Park at Chestnut Ridge Road and prepare for a short, 15-minute hike to the falls. You'll start to smell a rotten egg-type odor (the result of the natural gas that causes the flame) the closer you get to the tiered falls, which cascade around 30 feet. Here you'll notice a small grotto inside of which is a flame, about 4-8" high, ignited by the natural gas emitted from the spring. It's really an amazing natural wonder.

5 Willoughby Ghost Walk

As you take the interstate through Willoughby, why not take a walk on the spooky side? The Willoughby Ghost Walk tours operate from June through October and provide guided walking tours of downtown Willoughby. You'll learn all about the haunted history of the town, including the legends of strange phenomena that have been reported over the years. The tour covers 12 blocks and lasts just under two hours.

6 Birthplace of Superman

If you're a fan of Superman (especially the comics), then make the pilgrimage to the home of Jerry Siegal, the creator of Superman. Outside the home you can see a sign and the iconic Superman logo commemorating the home's previous owner. Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster came up with the idea of a hero with superpowers in 1933. Both boys were lived on the same street and were from immigrant Jewish families. The current owners of the home where Superman was "born" are quite friendly to people on Superman pilgrimages, and scattered throughout the property is superman memorabilia.

A Christmas Story House and Museum

Cleveland, OH

If you're a fan of the movie "A Christmas Story" then it's essential that you stop at the house where the film was shot... even if it's the middle of summer! It's located on West 11th Street in Cleveland and tours are offered. They even encourage you to touch the exhibits, and even recreate your favorite scenes for photos. The tour can run you around an hour, so if you have the time it's almost as good as actually being in the movie.

If you're staying the night in Cleveland, there are quite a few great hotel options. The Glidden House is an incredibly 1910 mansion-turned-B&B, and the Hyatt Regency at The Arcade features a killer location. As for food, try Lucky's Cafe or Melt.

8 Olde Avon Village

If you enjoyed Sturbridge Village in Massachusetts, then take a detour off I-90 to Avon, Ohio's Olde Avon Village. Here you can walk back in time and see what life was like in the mid-1800s. There are shops, homes and pretty much everything else you could want in an authentic 19th century village. Then it's back to the 21st century and back on the road!

9 Pokagon State Park

When you're ready to stretch your legs again, stop at Pokagon State Park, near Angola, Indiana. The name for the park comes from Leopold and Simon Pokagon, the last two leaders of the Potawatomi tribe. If you're looking to spend the night in Indiana, you should check into the Potawatomi Inn, a pretty popular Midwest resort lodge. Throughout the park you'll find beautiful stone and log structures, wide open fields and meadows, rolling hills and even wetlands.

Washington Park Beach

Michigan City, IN

Detour off I-90 to Washington Park Beach in Michigan City, IN and visit the Michigan City Lighthouse or take a walk on the boardwalk. There's also a seven acre zoo just across the street from the beach, and playgrounds for little ones. The park is open from 6am to 10pm, and costs $2 during the weekday and $5 on weekends. There's also loads of parking!

11 Michael Jackson's House

If you're a fan of Michael Jackson, then you'll definitely want a photo at his childhood home in Gary, Indiana, which is right off the interstate. The best time to visit is in August, when there's usually a Michael Jackson-themed event going on.

12 The Second City

If you love Saturday Night Live, or just really dig improv comedy, then you need to visit the mecca of improv: The Second City in Chicago. This is where the best SNL cast members got their start.

TIP: If you purchase tickets through the Second City website you can usually get a great deal on a restaurant nearby at the same time. Dinner and a show in Chicago: The perfect night out on the town!

And if you want a hotel in Chicago, the options are almost endless. Hotel Lincoln, Hotel Monaco, Hotel Burnham... take your pick! They're all great.

13 Legoland Discovery Center

As you head out of Chicago, visit Legoland Discovery Center in Schaumurg, IL. There are over 3 million lego bricks here and you can easily spend the day exploring with kids. Keep in mind that Legoland is a kids attraction, and all adults must be accompanied by a child. If you happen to have a kid around, though, it's a can't-miss stop!

14 Goebbert's Pumpkin Patch

If you're road tripping during summer and fall, you'll absolutely want to visit Goebbert's Pumpkin Patch in Pingree Grove. There's so much to do, especially during autumn, from a pumpkin-eating dinosaur, to a hay bale maze, and basically every other fall-themed outdoor activity you can think of. Oh, and the puppet show is absolutely adorable.

TIP: Go during the week to avoid the massive weekend fall crowds. And don't forget to stop at the cafe and gift shop!

15 Lake Kegonsa State Park

I-90 then makes its way into Wisconsin! Lake Kegonsa State Park is considered "one of the best-kept secrets of southern Wisconsin." This state park features a 3,200-acre lake, woodlands, a swimming beach, fishing, a boat launch and campground. There are tons of hiking trails and picnic places in case you just wanted to get some fresh air and soak up a little sun!

16 Pink Elephant

Next up: Quirky roadside photo op alert! There's a massive Pink Elephant wearing glasses at a gas station. His name is "Pinkie" and he was installed in the late 1970s at the gas station, now a Citgo. It's definitely the most adorable gas station on I-90!

17 Circus World Museum

If you're still in the mood for some more offbeat adventuring, head to the Circus World Museum in Baraboo, Wisconsin. This town was where the Ringling Bros. Circus was founded in 1884 by five brothers. In fact, they named the city the "winter quarters" for the circus, Ringlingville. Several buildings were built along the Baraboo River between 1897 and 1918, and today they make up America's "largest surviving group of original circus structures." Here you can see memorabilia and learn all about circus history, which is actually pretty interesting.

And if you want a good book to read on the road, Katherine Dunn's "Geek Love", will definitely get you in the mood to fully enjoy your time at the Circus World Museum.

Witches Gulch

Wisconsin Dells, WI

From clowns to witches...over in Wisconsin Dells, skip the water parks (did you know that Wisconsin Dells has more waterslides per capita than anywhere else in the world?) and head to the Witches Gulch. It's like something out of Lord of the Rings! Admission to get in is just $5 and it's an absolutely breathtaking geological wonder. The Gulch is a slot canyon that surrounded by lush woodland. It's pet-friendly and definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.

And if you do actually want in on the waterpark action at the Water Park Capital of the World, we love the quirky offerings at Kalahari Resort!

Mill Bluff State Park

Camp Douglas, WI

If you're still in the mood for some outdoor fun, your next stop along the highway is Mill Bluff State Park near Camp Douglas, Wisconsin. This state park has beautiful, towering bluffs, swimming areas, a campground and plenty of places to hike or relax after a long day of driving.

Depending on the time of year you decide to drive I-90, it's important to note that weather can affect your journey. Snow and high winds will plague you from Minnesota to Montana, especially in the winter. Snow plows do a pretty good job, but if there's a storm, you could get stuck, so be prepared before setting out for this trip. Also, keep in mind that between Rapid City and the Black Hills, you'll be at an exceptionally high elevation, which means it's a bit more colder in this area. Pack accordingly, depending on the time of year. In fact, during deep winter, you can expect sub-zero temperatures across South Dakota, Wyoming and Montana. Remember your anti-freeze, snow tires, and don't let yourself run low on gas.

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American Colonial and Revolutionary History Road Trip

Touring Boston, Philadelphia, and Virginia with kids!

Looking for a ready-made American history road trip itinerary ? We’ve got it! This itinerary starts in Boston, MA and ends in Williamsburg, Virginia, and hit highlights of American colonial and Revolutionary history. Civil War history can be added, as well!

Table of Contents

Start your trip in historic Boston . Walk the Freedom Trail , visit Faneuil Hall, and see Old Ironsides. Older kids will love seeing Paul Revere’s house and the historic cemetery.

Where to stay: be part of history when sleeping in the Custom House building, which is now operated by Marriott Vacation Club.

Drive down the Eastern Seaboard to Philadelphia to continue your Revolutionary history. In Philly, see where America began in Independence Hall where the Declaration of Independence was signed. Tour the Constitution Center, see the Liberty Bell, and visit the site of Ben Franklin’s home and offices.

Where to stay: Hotel Monaco Philly is located directly across the street from Independence Hall. Need we say more? 

Head out of Philly and stop at Valley Forge, PA . Spend half a day on the self-guided auto tour of Washington’s winter camp, including his officer’s quarters and many bunkhouses of enlisted men. In the afternoon, drive either to Gettysburg, PA to learn about the Civil War battle (plan to stay two days), or take the long road trip down to Williamsburg, VA.

Spend three days touring Colonial Revolutionary City in Williamsburg, VA . Take the time to visit the various shops and tradesmen, eat in the pubs, and book an evening tour or two. Definitely walk from the Visitor’s Center to Great Hopes Plantation, and play RevQuest if you have older kids or teens.

Where to stay: Williamsburg Woodlands is within walking and shuttle distance of Revolutionary City, plus includes a splash play area, mini golf, and a pool. 

Devote one full day to touring Jamestown, VA . Located adjacent to Williamsburg, this original site of the Jamestown Settlement has two parts: the original national historic site, where kids can see ongoing excavation in progress, and the recreated historic settlement and fort. Take time to tour the museum as well!

If there’s time, round out your historic road trip with a visit to Washington DC to see the actual Declaration of Independence and the flag that inspired the Star Spangled Banner.

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Take the ultimate summer road trip across the Mid-Atlantic region

Not quite east, but far from south, the Mid-Atlantic region stands unique in the country. It is a place where history both begins and ends, marked by notorious battles against British rule, the end of slavery, and the geographies that inspired pioneers to explore the country further.

In this guide, we journey through the Mid-Atlantic states of Delaware, Maryland, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia, highlighting the region’s must-sees and a few hidden gems. For a summer filled with museums, exhibitions, beautiful state and national parks, and visits to bustling cities, here are the top travel destinations and landmarks of the Mid-Atlantic!

First up is the first state of the United States, Delaware. As the country’s second-smallest state, it boasts gorgeous Rehoboth, Bethany, and Dewey beaches, the Delaware River, numerous historical landmarks, and beautiful state parks. Days spent in Delaware showcase the natural beauty of the Mid-Atlantic without the crowds.

• Delaware Seashore State Park: Enjoy activities like beach bumming, fishing, and paddling at this park, which features over six miles of shore and charming waterfront cottages.
• John Dickinson Plantation: Explore the home of John Dickinson, a somewhat forgotten Founding Father. This plantation, maintained by enslaved Africans, gives insight into the harsh realities of American slavery.
• Brandywine Creek State Park: Located in northern Delaware, this state park offers families a range of recreational activities, including horseback riding, biking, and canoeing around Brandywine Creek.
• Bombay Hook National Wildlife Refuge: Originally established as a sanctuary for migrating birds, this refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including ducks, geese, and shorebirds.

Maryland is home to several historic sites, museums, and diverse landscapes. As a key state in early American history, it offers a rich tapestry of architecture, transportation innovations, art, and nature.

• Baltimore: A must-visit for American history enthusiasts, Baltimore is appreciated for its exceptional nightlife, world-class museums, fine dining, and scenic waterfront views.
• Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail: This 560-mile route traverses prominent sites of the War of 1812 across Maryland, Virginia, and D.C.
• Assateague Island National Seashore: This island, home to thousands of wild horses, offers a near-fairytale setting against the backdrop of the Atlantic shores as beautiful ponies roam uninterrupted from human interference.
• Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park: Pay tribute to Harriet Tubman, a prominent figure in American history, at this state park located on the land where she once lived and fought for the escape of the enslaved.
• Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park: Explore America's early transportation history along the scenic routes of this canal while imagining the lives of early Americans.

Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C., the political heart of our nation, is home to all 46 United States presidents. This vibrant city boasts prominent museums, art galleries, public parks, and a thriving dining and nightlife scene.

• The White House: While you might not run into the president, the White House Visitor Center is free of charge. If the crowds get too heavy, take a stroll along Pennsylvania Avenue and admire all of its Neoclassical architecture.
• Lincoln Memorial: Visit this iconic memorial to see an impactful statue of Lincoln illuminated by night lights.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: Marvel at this 30-foot sculpture, modeled after King's famous “I Have a Dream” speech.
• U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress: Visit the birthplaces of our country’s laws and policies. One of the most-visited sites in D.C., make sure to reserve your spot in advance.

Virginia offers a blend of history, charming colonial towns, majestic natural landscapes, and European-inspired cobblestone streets. Whether you're shopping and dining in the state's urban cities or exploring the quiet countryside, Virginia has something for everyone.

• Shenandoah National Park: Covering over 200,000 acres, this park impresses with scenic waterfalls, hiking trails, and a rich wildlife population.
• Williamsburg: Step back in time as you wander the colonial streets of Williamsburg, home to one of the world’s largest living museums.
• Richmond: Virginia's capital city features numerous museums, afternoons of kayaking on the James River, and lots of pretty parks and gardens.
• Virginia Beach: Break up your Mid-Atlantic trip with a family-friendly beach day at Virginia Beach. Walk along the famous 3-mile boardwalk and enjoy a meal at one of its many restaurants.
• Natural Bridge State Park: Marvel at the impressive limestone gorge formation known as the “natural bridge” and explore the park’s scenic forests and meadows.

West Virginia

Described as “Almost Heaven,” West Virginia enchants visitors with its alluring landscapes and colonial charm. Whether you’re a history buff or an outdoor enthusiast, West Virginia has something for every road tripper.

• Prickett’s Fort State Park: Experience 18th-century life at this reconstructed colonial compound, complete with rustic woods and interactive historical reenactments.
• New River Gorge National Park and Preserve: This national park, designated in 2020, offers over 70,000 acres for hiking, biking, and whitewater rafting on Class V rapids.
• Waterfall Trail: Embark on a waterfall-hunting adventure along this trail, which features over 200 waterfalls, including the iconic Blackwater Falls.
• Harpers Ferry National Historical Park: Explore this historical park, home to several museums and exhibits that showcase diverse aspects of American history. Visit Civil War battlefields, explore the quaint town, and hike its scenic trails.

Tips for traveling through the Mid-Atlantic region

• Have the correct permits: Hiking, fishing, and kayaking in some of the region’s parks, rivers, and lakes may require state permits. For outdoor enthusiasts, know state regulations and rules before participating in any activities.
• Get a park pass: Many state and national parks offer annual pass programs, granting you unlimited visits to America’s most famous parks.
• Get an exhibition pass: There’s no doubt you’ll be visiting the country’s most significant museums, galleries, and exhibitions, and many companies sell passes that allow free and discounted access to select sites, which will certainly save you money in the long run.
• Follow the rules of the road (and state): While driving is obvious to most, remember that states have varying traffic regulations, such as wearing headphones while driving, traveling in high-occupancy vehicles, and mobile phone usage. Learn the state laws on your Mid-Atlantic itinerary through official government websites and traffic apps.

Offering a perfect blend of educational and adventure tourism, individuals, families, and groups of friends can revel in the discoveries and experiences the Mid-Atlantic offers. Here, our country’s history is reflected in every alleyway and through every forest. Pack your bags, hit the open road, and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime!

No matter where the road takes you, make sure you and everyone in your vehicle uses their seat belt. Buckling up saves lives!

San Francisco To Seattle: The Ultimate Road Trip Itinerary

• Road trippers can choose between two main routes from San Francisco to Seattle, each with its own advantages and unique views.
• The more direct route follows I-5 and takes approximately 12 hours and 45 minutes of non-stop driving.
• The coastal route along the Pacific Coast Highway is more scenic but takes longer, with a total trip time of approximately 17 hours and 10 minutes.

The majority of people are used to the most famous road trip in the United States, from Los Angeles to San Francisco. Road-tripping individuals will have the chance to behold the unique views on the Pacific Coast Highway in California . With several stops on their way, allowing them to see the beautiful nature, relaxed beach towns, busy cities, and unique attractions, commuters will experience a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that they have never gone through before.

However, another road trip that allows visitors to the western side of the US to explore the Pacific Northwest is equally attractive to the Los Angeles-San Francisco drive . That journey consists of the Drive from San Francisco to Washington's largest city, Seattle. Many people wonder what the best stops from San Francisco to Seattle are, and there are plenty.

UPDATE: 2023/08/06 02:46 EST BY NICOLE HANSEN

More To Know When Planning A Roadtrip From Boston To San Francisco

There's always more to add to create the perfect road trip itinerary. This article has been updated with additional route details, including maps, stop suggestions, and highlights in California, Oregon, and Washington. Have fun, and be safe!

Related: Road Trip Patagonia: Driving Scenic Ruta 40 From Esquel To Bariloche

Best Routes From San Francisco To Seattle

There are two main routes for a road trip from San Francisco to Seattle, each with its own advantages and unique views.

The more direct route follows I-5, stopping through Redding, California, Portland, Oregon, and Olympia, Washington on its way to Seattle. When venturing along the I-5 highway, the trip takes approximately 12 hours and 45 minutes of non-stop driving, much of which is through the granite Sierra Nevada Mountain Range. However, if one wants to enjoy most of the attractions along the San Franciso-Seattle road, they must spend at least an extra 5–7 days.

San Francisco to Seattle Via I-5

• Distance: 819 miles
• Time to Drive: ~12 hours 45 minutes
• Recommended Road Trip Time: 5–7 days
• I-5 Road Trip Route Outline: San Francisco, California → Mt. Shasta, California → Ashland, Oregon → Eugene, Oregon → Portland, Oregon → Olympia, Washington → Tacoma, Washington → Seattle, Washington

For a more meandering drive from San Francisco to Seattle, The famous Pacific Coast Highway, the most well-known California road trip, turns into Highway 101 and extends into Oregon and Washington before connecting with Highway 30. Travelers follow Highway 30 until they reach I-5, which returns them to the north-south route until Seattle.

This coastal route from San Francisco to Seattle is arguably the most scenic but does take longer to complete. The entire trip takes approximately 17 hours and 10 minutes non-stop. A coastal road trip from San Francisco to Seattle also demands a slightly longer time frame, taking 7–10 days to fully enjoy.

San Francisco to Seattle Via The Pacific Coast Highway

• Distance: 901 miles
• Time to Drive: ~17 hours 10 minutes
• Recommended Road Trip Time: 7–10 days
• Pacific Coast Highway (California to Washington) Road Trip Route Outline: San Francisco, California → Fort Bragg, California → Crescent City, California → Gold Beach, Oregon → Astoria, Oregon → Olympia, Washington → Tacoma, Washington → Seattle, Washington

Related: 10 Best Routes To Take On The Ultimate Cross-Country Road Trip

Planning For A Drive From San Francisco To Seattle

A trip from San Francisco to Seattle involves driving for 800 or more miles along the Pacific Northwest and watching the most attractive views while on the way. Before hopping onto the automobile, visitors must rent a car from legitimate and affordable sources, such as RentalCars.com , which offers rentals from various car brands. Another better option is to rent a Campervan or an RV from Outdoorsy to make one's life easier regarding accommodation. A crucial step to take is to issue a car insurance policy to hedge against any sudden accidents.

• Cost of a Campervan: depending on its size, a Campervan costs an average of $130 per night to rent.

Top Road Trip Stops In California

The first stop on the San Francisco to Seattle drive is the Town of Sausalito, known for its breathtaking nature and relaxing atmosphere. People can go on hiking trips in Sausalito and learn about the natural habitat and the preserved seashore, among other activities.

Next on the road is the Muir Woods National Monument, which boasts 600-year-old, 246-foot-long redwood trees and diverse wildlife. Another stop worth embracing is the picturesque wine region of Sonoma. The iconic Napa Valley in California is the most famous stop on the San Francisco to Seattle road trip.

Additionally, a lot of visitors head to Domaine Chandon to taste the US's best sparkling wines. People on a high budget go to world-class Michelin-starred restaurants, such as The French Laundry or Auberge Du Soleil, to eat in Napa Valley. The Coast of California offers even more unique stops, perfect for a road trip from San Francisco to Seattle. An artistic stop full of galleries in the coastal town of Mendocino that boasts a gallery in a water tower. The most beautiful city to visit on the road trip from San Francisco to Seattle is Fort Bragg, famous for its Glass Beach in the Noyo Headlands Park, which boasts mesmerizing views of the Pacific Ocean.

Another popular stop is the marvelous Shasta Lake, surrounded by mountains with barren trees that create a magnificent effect with the lake's crystal clear waters and the blue color of the sky. It is also worth stopping at Crescent City to visit Redwood National and State Parks.

Related: Need A Day Trip from Las Vegas? Try Off-Roading In The Mojave Desert

Unique Stops In Oregon And Washington

Visiting Crater Lake National Park is a must when on a road trip from San Francisco to Seattle. Crater Lake is the deepest lake in the US and was formed by a super-volcanic eruption 7,700 years ago. Next is a stop at the most beautiful waterfall in Oregon, the unique Toketee Falls.

Eugene City, the birthplace of NIKE, is next on the list and is best to visit during summer for hiking trails. Another good stop for hiking is in the city of Bend in Oregon. A gem of the Pacific Northwest is the Willamette Valley, known for its 1300 wineries and vineyards. Additionally, visiting the Evergreen Aviation & Space Museum would be a good idea when in Willamette Valley. Flying kites on the beach in Lincoln City, Oregon, is fun during the road trip.

Next, people usually stop in Tillamook to have ice cream and cheese tasting. They can also visit The Tillamook Creamery for free. The jewel of the Pacific Northwest, the city of Portland is a popular stop for nature and hiking lovers and foodies. For those taking the coastal route through Oregon, the port city of Astoria is arguably the best road trip stop in the Pacific Northwest , offering ocean views, hiking trails, and a unique downtown vibe consistent with traveler's favorite Oregon cities.

Next comes Washington in the road trip from San Francisco to Seattle, where most commuters stop at the iconic Mount Rainier National Park and the Gig Harbor for a couple of calming and relaxing days. Washington also has a number of short detours for those looking to get outdoors on their road trip adventure, including nearby Olympic National Park, one of the most beautiful national parks in the US .

Next: Every Wine Aficionado Needs To Visit These Napa Valley Vineyards

Boston Red Sox | Red Sox lineup: Rafaela back in center,…

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Boston red sox | panthers steal game 4, 3-2, boston red sox | red sox lineup: rafaela back in center, refsnyder dh-ing.

With left-hander Patrick Corbin on the mound for Friday night’s series opener, Boston’s lineup looks a bit different. Rob Refsnyder will serve as the designated hitter, and Jarren Duran will move back to left field for the night. By putting Ceddanne Rafaela back in center field, Romy Gonzalez, another right-handed hitter, can start at shortstop.

Red Sox lineup (May 10)

Jarren Duran LF

Rob Refsnyder DH

Tyler O’Neill RF

Rafael Devers 3B

Connor Wong C

Vaughn Grissom 2B

Garrett Cooper 1B

Romy Gonzalez SS

Ceddanne Rafaela CF

Nationals lineup (May 10)

Jacob Young CF

CJ Abrams SS

Luis García Jr. 2B

Joey Meneses 1B

Jesse Winker DH

Keibert Ruiz C

Eddie Rosario LF

Trey Lipscomb 3B

Victor Robles RF

Red Sox vs. Nationals probable starting pitchers

RHP Tanner Houck vs. LHP Patrick Corbin

How to watch Red Sox vs. Nationals (May 10)

When: 7:10 p.m. ET

Where: Fenway Park, Boston

TV: NESN, MASN (Blackout restrictions may apply)

Red Sox radio: WEEI 93.7 FM, WCCM 1490 AM (Spanish)

Nationals radio: 106.7 The Fan, DC 87.7, La Pantera 100.7 FM/1220 AM

May 10 in baseball history

1934: Lou Gehrig’s two-double, two-homer game (one a grand slam) is overshadowed by Ben Chapman shouting antisemitic slurs at a Jewish fan. Chapman will go on to manage the Philadelphia Phillies and ruin his career by making racist remarks towards a rookie Jackie Robinson.

1970: Hoyt Wilhelm becomes the first major league pitcher to reach 1,000 games.

1996: When Henry Rodriguez has a two-homer game for the Montreal Expos, fans throw “Oh, Henry” candy bars on to the field.

1999: Nomar Garciaparra hits two grand slams and a two-run homer in a 12-4 Red Sox victory over the Mariners at Fenway. He’s the first American Leaguer to have a 10-RBI game since Fred Lynn in 1975.

2012: The Orioles make AL history when they lead off the game with three consecutive homers by Ryan Flaherty, J.J. Hardy, and Nick Markakis.

2013: Red Sox star Jon Lester throws a complete-game shutout against the Blue Jays. Only one hit separates his performance from a perfect game. It’s also the 9,000th regular-season victory in franchise history.

2023: Kenley Jansen becomes the seventh member of the 400 Saves Club.

(Sources: Baseball-Reference, SABR, Nationalpastime.com)

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Mount Washington Auto Road opening ahead of schedule for daily drives this season

By Neal Riley

Updated on: May 8, 2024 / 2:33 PM EDT / CBS Boston

GORHAM, N.H. - Has your car climbed Mount Washington ? The Mt. Washington Auto Road is opening ahead of schedule for daily use.

The famous scenic 7.6-mile drive that takes visitors all the way up to the 6,288-foot summit of New England's tallest peak will open for daily usage on May 11 at 9 a.m. Typically, the Auto Road only opens on weekends, weather-permitting, before Memorial Day.

"A strong 'Spring Clearing' effort by the MWAR Road Crew paired with less extreme weather conditions over the winter allow for daily operations to start two weeks early," the Auto Road said in a statement.

While the snowfall may not have been extreme this winter, the Mount Washington Observatory at the summit did record a 150 mph wind gust  in March.

History of Mt. Washington Auto Road

The Mt. Washington Auto Road bills itself as the "oldest man-made tourist attraction in North America." It was first opened in 1861, with a horse-drawn carriage making the first trip to the summit.

More than 45,000 cars drive the Auto Road annually. It takes about 30 minutes to go up the mountain and another 30  - and driving is not recommended for those with a fear of heights. For those who don't want to drive, guided tours are available.

It costs $45 for a car and driver to take the Auto Road to the summit and back. Adult passengers are $20 each and kids between 4 years old and 12 are $10.

• New Hampshire News

Neal J. Riley is a digital producer for CBS Boston. He has been with WBZ-TV since 2014. His work has appeared in The Boston Globe and The San Francisco Chronicle. Neal is a graduate of Boston University.

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Karen Read murder trial continues, Brian Albert says O'Keefe never entered his house

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Karen Read trial: Owners of home where John O'Keefe was found testify

Brian and nicole albert took the stand and discussed their memories of the morning o'keefe's body was found unresponsive on their lawn; julie albert also returned to the stand on friday as week 2 of the karen read trial wrapped up, by marc fortier , munashe kwangwari and john moroney • published may 10, 2024 • updated on may 10, 2024 at 8:22 pm.

The Canton, Massachusetts, couple who owned the home at the center of the Karen Read murder trial took the stand Friday.

Brian and Nicole Albert have been the subject of intense public speculation for months — while prosecutors say Read killed her boyfriend, Boston Police Officer John O'Keefe, on their lawn on Fairview Road during a snowstorm in January 2022, Read's lawyers have claimed there was a coverup, one that may have involved at least Brian Albert, a fellow Boston police officer.

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Their testimony came as the second week of trial proceedings in Norfolk Superior Court, in Dedham, wrapped up. But before they took the stand, Judge Beverly Cannone ruled that the controversial blogger Aidan Kearney, known as "Turtleboy," wouldn't be allowed in the courtroom for their testimony or that of eight other witnesses he's accused of intimidating.

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Read is charged with second-degree murder in the 2022 death of O'Keefe. He was found in the snow outside retired Boston Police Officer Brian Albert's home in Canton. Prosecutors say Read hit O'Keefe with her SUV, while Read says she has been framed in a wide-ranging coverup, claiming the Albert family — which includes a Canton police officer and current selectman — and the state's lead investigator, a family friend, put the blame on Read.

Read has pleaded not guilty and is free on bond.

Watch the Karen Read trial live on nbcboston.com, NECN, NBC Boston streaming platforms (including Roku, Peacock and Samsung TV) and NBC10 Boston's YouTube page . Every night of the trial at 7 p.m., come back for analysis and more.

Julie Albert returned to the stand Friday morning. She was out with Read and O'Keefe the night before O'Keefe was found dead on her brother-in-law Brian Albert's front lawn. Brian Albert and his wife Nicole Albert also testified Friday.

Here's a recap of what happened Friday:

Retired Boston Police Officer Brian Albert testifies

Just before 2:30 p.m. Friday, just after his wife finished testifying, Brian Albert took the stand. He said he was in New York on Friday, Jan. 28, 2022, for a funeral of a New York City police officer who had been killed in the line of duty, and drove back to Canton that night.

He spoke about arriving back to town, stopping at the Waterfall Bar & Grill following a conversation with his wife Nicole. He said his brother Chris, his wife, and several other friends, including Jennifer and Matthew McCabe were already there when he arrived. He said O'Keefe and Read arrived later.

Over the course of the evening, Albert said he hung out with O'Keefe and had several conversations.

Watch the full Karen Read trial Day 9 testimony (May 10, 2024)

He described the atmosphere at the bar as being fun.

"Everybody was in a great mood. People were getting along. It was friends and family. It just seemed like a great night."

Albert said he and his wife Nicole and their daughter Caitlin were among the first people in their group to leave the bar, along with his friend, Brian Higgins.

Upon leaving the bar, he returned home, where his wife had invited members of the group to join them, as they were celebrating their son's 23rd birthday.

Assistant District Attorney Adam Lally again showed surveillance video from the Waterfall, which has been shown to numerous witnesses throughout the second week of the trial.

Lally's questions turned to what Albert remembered from when he got home: letting their dog, Chloe, out into the backyard before bringing her upstairs, and a relaxed party for his son, Brian Jr.

"We were wishing Brian a happy birthday and everything was going great," he said.

He said he may have taken Higgins upstairs for a few minutes to show him pictures of his other son, John, who, like Higgins, is a Marine, Albert recalled.

Higgins remembered leaving the party around 1:30 a.m., around which time Albert went upstairs to watch TV and decompress from a long day.

"I think I popped back down at one point, just to see how long people were gonna be there," he said, noting that a group was still there, including his daughter and Jennifer and Matthew McCabe, among others.

Asked if he was aware of O'Keefe or Read coming over, Albert said, "John O'Keefe and Karen Read never entered my house."

His wife came upstairs around 2 a.m. to watch TV and hang out, Albert said, with Chloe there as well. He was awoken by his sister-in-law bursting into the room saying "something to the effect of, 'John is dead.'"

She told the Alberts there were police downstairs, whom he went down to speak with. The first officer there was an officer named Michael Lank, who has testified previously in the Karen Read trial, followed by an other officer. Albert said he welcomed them inside.

Later, he called Higgins — "I think it was important for him to know what was going on and what had happened — and Higgins came over, as did Julie Albert, who has a regular tradition of dropping birthday treats off.

He didn't go outside after O'Keefe's body was found, saying, "There was a snowstorm at that point. They were trying to conduct an investigation and I didn't want to interfere with it or have anything to do with it."

Later that day, he spoke to state police troopers at his sister-in-law's house, several hours after O'Keefe's body was found. He said he went there because his sister-in-law, whom he's known since she was six or seven years old, was distraught and wanted to be there for her, Albert said.

The troopers — Michael Proctor, who would become the lead investigator on the case, and Yuri Bukhenik — separately interviewed all three at the McCabes' house, Albert recalled.

Lally turned to the house on Fairview Road, asking Albert to confirm that they first discussed moving two or three months before O'Keefe's body was found.

"It was post-COVID, the housing market seemed really good and my brother Chris had sold his house," Albert said, noting his brother put him in touch with his realtor.

Asked if selling the house had anything to do with the incident in January 2022, Albert said, "Absolutely not."

Nicole Albert testifies

Nicole Albert, the wife of Boston Police Officer Brian Albert, took the stand around 11:15 a.m. Nicole and Brian Albert lived in the Fairview Road home where O'Keefe's body was found until they moved to Norwood recently.

Lally asked Nicole Albert about the date of Friday, Jan. 28, 2022, the day before her son Brian Albert Jr.'s birthday.

Because it was supposed to snow on Saturday, Jan. 29, 2022, the family had talked about having a small birthday gathering for family and friends on Friday night.

Albert also testified about the gathering with friends and family at the Waterfall.

She said her husband Brian was driving back to New York at the time, and she urged him to join the group at the Waterfall, which he did shortly after 10 p.m. She said shortly after 11 p.m., O'Keefe and Read arrived.

Albert also testified about how a group of friends and family members gathered at her family's house on Fairview Road after leaving the Waterfall. She said her daughter Caitlin was the last person to leave the gathering, around 2 a.m.

At that point, Nicole Albert said she was the only one still awake. Her son and husband had already gone to sleep.

Albert testified that the didn't hear or see anything unusual outside her house at any point that night.

A short time later, after cleaning up the house, she said she went to sleep around 2:30 a.m. She said her husband was still awake, lying in bed and watching television.

Between 6 and 6:30 the next morning, she said her sister Jennifer McCabe "came bursting into my bedroom."

"She's saying, 'He's out in the snow, we found him out in the snow, we don't know if he's OK,'" Julie Albert said.

"My immediate thought was just that I thought something had happened to one of my children, something had happened to one of her children. I couldn't imagine what she was doing in my bedroom at this time in the morning."

"She was hysterical," Albert said.

Albert said McCabe eventually told her that O'Keefe had been found outside on their lawn, and that investigators wanted to speak with her and her husband.

Lally also showed Nicole Albert photos of the exterior of her Fairview Road home from January of 2022. And he discussed the Alberts' dog, Chloe.

Nicole Albert said the dog had been up in their bedroom but Brian Albert let her out to go to the bathroom soon after arriving home. The backyard was fenced in, she said.

After that, she said Brian Albert brought the dog back upstairs.

Nicole Albert also testified that she and her husband moved from Canton to Norwood in April of 2023.

"We had always planned to move," she said. "The kids were starting to get older, we were looking to possibly downsize."

She said the decision to sell the home had nothing to do with O'Keefe's death.

During cross examination, defense attorney Elizabeth Little asked Nicole Albert if she observed any sort of tension between O'Keefe and Read at the Waterfall on the night before O'Keefe was found dead. Albert said she did not. She also said she saw no evidence that Read was under the influence of alcohol.

Albert also testified that she saw her husband and his friend Higgins "fooling around" at the Waterfall that night, which Little described as "practice fighting." She also confirmed under questioning that her husband does have training as a boxer.

Little also got Albert to testify that her dog, Chloe, on one instance injured two women who were trying to break up a fight with another dog.

Albert also said that four months after O'Keefe's death, the family rehomed their dog, which they had owned for six years.

Little also pressed Albert on an earlier police interview where she said her daughter, Caitlin Albert, left her house at 12:15 a.m. and not 2 a.m. on the morning O'Keefe was found dead.

"I don't believe I said that," Albert said, indicating that the police investigator might have gotten things misconstrued in her notes.

Albert also testified about a Feb. 3, 2022, conversation with Massachusetts State Police Michael Proctor. Little pressed her on several pieces of information she left out during that interview, including some of the key people who were at her house on the night before O'Keefe died, including her nephew Colin Albert.

"I didn't mention Colin because I didn't consider him as part of the group that we were hanging out with at the Waterfall because he left as soon as I walked in," Albert said. "I didn't even think of him."

Asked by Little about the first thing she remembers waking up to on the morning of Jan. 29, 2022, Albert said, "My sister bombing into my bedroom" between 6 and 6:30 a.m. She said she didn't see any flashing lights or hear any sirens that night, noting that her blinds were closed.

Little pointed out that surveillance footage shows it was actually closer to 6:45 a.m. The defense attorney then referenced two phone calls from Jennifer McCabe to Albert at 6:07 a.m. and 6:08 a.m. that records show were answered.

"I never answered any phone calls from my sister that morning," Albert said. "She may have placed those phone calls to me, but I never answered them... I never spoke to her that morning."

Should 'Turtleboy' be allowed in the courtroom?

Testimony came to an abrupt halt shortly after 10 a.m. due to a motion from the prosecution seeking to have Aidan Kearney, the blogger better known as "Turtleboy," removed from the courtroom . Friday was the first day he was allowed into court in one of the media seats.

Court resumed around 10:45 a.m., with Kearney's attorney, Tim Bradl, arguing that his client should be allowed in the courtroom and the prosecution's motion should be denied. He said there had been no service whatsoever, and the prosecution is seeking to "trample all over" his client's First Amendment rights.

"There's some funny business going on here," Kearney's attorney said. "I don't appreciate that."

"This is more personalized retaliation from the Norfolk County DA's office," he added. "This was adjudicated fully."

Lally then described his motion, saying he isn't asking that Kearney not be allowed to cover the case or watch the trial, only that he not be allowed to attend in person.

"The substantial reason your honor being that Mr. Kearney has been indicted for intimidating witnesses... and specifically witnesses in this case," he said.

Lally said the witnesses have expressed concern and the prosecutors are concerned that Kearney's presence might impact their testimony.

Bradl, however, argued that the witnesses' concern has no legal standing.

"The answer that I have is, 'So what?' This matter has been adjudicated twice. Mr. Kearney has the right to speak on the case, he's gone through all the proper channels to be here... he's just trying to cover the case as best he can. This is just a personal vendetta that's been carried out by the Norfolk County DA's office against Mr. Kearney... there's no reason for this motion to be allowed."

Judge Beverly Cannone affirmed that Kearney has a right to be in the courtroom, but she also needs to make sure that Read has a right to a fair trial. She said that due to the "chilling effect" Kearney's presence will have on the witnesses' testimony, she is going to excuse him from the courtroom during the testimony of several witnesses named by the prosecution, including Julie Nagle, Christopher Albert, Colin Albert, Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor, Jennifer McCabe, Matthew McCabe, Brian Albert, Brian Albert Jr., Nicole Albert and Massachusetts State Police Trooper Yuri Bukhenik.

But Cannone said she will not take away Kearney's seat in his absence and he will be allowed to return to court for other witnesses. Nicole Albert was the next witness called to testify after the judge's ruling, so Kearney was required to leave the courtroom prior to the start of her testimony.

Julie Albert testifies about phone conversations

Defense attorney David Yannetti began the day on Friday by picking up a line of questioning from the previous day about how often Julie Albert spoke with her friend Courtney Proctor, the sister of Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor, the lead investigator in the Read case.

Albert confirmed that she "rarely" spoke with Courtney Proctor. But Yannetti pointed out that they actually had 67 phone conversations in a seven month period.

"It's not a lot. I wouldn't think it's a lot in seven months," Albert said.

"Three times in one day, is that rarely?" Yannetti said.

"No, but that wasn't every day," Albert replied.

She was also asked if she discussed the O'Keefe death investigation, but said she couldn't remember.

"It was a long time ago, I just don't remember," Albert said.

Yannetti zeroed in specifically on a phone conversation Albert had with Courtney Proctor on Feb. 1, 2022, the day Read was arrested in connection with O'Keefe's death, and three phone conversations she had with Proctor on the following day when Read was arraigned.

"Did the subject of Karen Read's arraignment come up in any of those three calls on Feb. 2?" Yannetti asked.

"I don't remember," she said.

Yannetti also asked about another, 27-minute phone call on the same day, after the arraignment had happened. But Albert said she didn't recall if they discussed Read or the arraignment.

"I don't remember what I was talking about," she said. But she acknowledged "it could have been" about Read's arraignment.

Albert was also asked about Feb. 10, 2022, the day when she and her husband, Chris Albert, were interviewed by Michael Proctor and another state police trooper about O'Keefe's death. That night, Yannetti said she called Proctor's personal cell phone number. But Julie Albert said she didn't recall that phone call.

Yannetti then showed Albert the phone records, but she said she still didn't remember the calls.

"No, I don't deny it, but I don't remember it," Albert said. She also said she didn't remember when she got Michael Proctor's phone number, only that it was a long time ago because she has known the family for some time.

Albert was also asked by Yannetti about the gathering at the Waterfall on the night before O'Keefe's death.

Yannetti again played a portion of the surveillance video from the bar, showing Chris Albert leaving the bar at almost 12:14 a.m. Julie Albert testified that it would take about six or seven minutes to walk from the bar to their home, maybe even a bit longer due to the snowy weather at the time.

Julie Albert said she was upstairs in her bedroom when her husband returned home, and he went right to bed.

Here's a quick look back at Thursday's testimony:

Watch Karen Read trial Day 8 testimony (May 9, 2024)

Chris albert's testimony.

Chris Albert, the brother of Boston Police Officer Brian Albert and a friend of O'Keefe's, testified about how he met up with O'Keefe at the Waterfall Bar & Grill in Canton on the night before O'Keefe's death.

He said he left around midnight, right around when O'Keefe and Read did, and went home to go to sleep. He said his son Colin had been at his brother's house that night celebrating his nephew's birthday, and returned home a short time later.

Albert said he woke up the next morning and his wife told him that O'Keefe had died and had been found on his brother's lawn on Fairview Road.

"I was in shock," he said. "I was like, 'What are you talking about?'"

He said he and his wife went over to his brother's house, where a number of other people had gathered, including several of those who had been at the Waterfall the night before.

Under cross-examination, Yannetti attempted to establish that the Albert family has a long standing in town and is a powerful family, with Albert on the Select Board and a brother who was on the Canton Police Department.

He then started to ask Albert about his connections to Massachusetts State Police Trooper Michael Proctor , the lead investigator in the Karen Read case who is currently the subject of an internal investigation into a potential violation of department policy. Sources have told NBC10 Boston the investigation is connected to the Read case.

Albert confirmed that he has known Proctor for about 15 years.

The defense also sought to establish that Albert and former Canton Police Chief Kenneth Berkowitz have known each other for decades. Albert said Berkowitz once attended a campaign event of his and donated to his campaign for Select Board.

Yannetti even displayed a photo for jurors showing the two of them together at the event.

The defense also asked about Albert's brother, Brian Albert, and his involvement in the Boston Police Department's fugitive unit. Chris Albert testified that he and Brian Albert spent time together at the holidays and would occasionally socialize together.

"You would agree with me that the Albert family is well-known in the town of Canton," Yannetti said in his cross-examination.

"We have a big family," Albert replied.

Yannetti went on to ask if he agreed that "the Albert family is a powerful family in the town of Canton," but the prosecution objected, and Cannone sustained.

Yannetti also got Albert to acknowledge that he and Proctor had attended social events together in the past.

The defense also entered a text exchange between Chris Albert and O'Keefe into evidence where Albert told O'Keefe to come to the Waterfall.

"Get over here," the first text message from Albert said, followed by another that said, "If not I'm going to f--- up your lawn," followed by a laughing emoji.

"It's a joke," Albert told Yannetti.

Yannetti also asked Albert about the amount Albert had to drink on the night before O'Keefe's death. Albert said he was fine and in control of his faculties. He was also asked if he noticed any arguments between O'Keefe and Read.

"I didn't notice anything irregular," he said.

Albert also testified that he was the last person to leave the Waterfall that night. Yannetti questioned Albert about his assertion that he arrived back home between 12:05 and 12:10 a.m., showing a short clip of the Waterfall surveillance video showing Albert leaving the bar just before 12:14 a.m.

"That would mean it would have been impossible for you to get home to Maple Street by 12:05 or 12:10, correct?" Yannetti said.

"Yes," Albert replied.

Albert said the walking distance from Waterfall to his house was about five minutes, meaning he would have actually arrived home closer to 12:19 or 12:20 a.m.

Soon after arriving home, Albert testified that he changed out of his wet clothes and then began to drift of to sleep within about 15 minutes, or about 12:35 a.m. He said his son Colin came home at some point after that and woke him up to say goodnight.

Yannetti tried to get Albert to acknowledge that O'Keefe, who lived nearby, did not like people walking on his lawn. But Albert denied that Colin ever did anything on O'Keefe's lawn that would have annoyed him. He also denied that he knew that O'Keefe didn't like people going on his lawn.

He did say that O'Keefe once yelled at Albert's younger son Dylan for walking on his lawn, but said it was meant as a joke and O'Keefe later brought Dylan candy as a way to apologize.

The jury was also shown a photo of Chris Albert and his wife, Julie, in front of O'Keefe home.

Julie Albert begins her testimony

Julie Albert was the second witness of the day called by the defense.

Lally started by establishing her relationship with O'Keefe. She said they were friends and neighbors and she was friendly with O'Keefe's niece and nephew and met Read in 2021 and had socialized with her on numerous occasions.

She was also asked to talk about the evening of Jan. 28, the night before O'Keefe's death, including the gathering that night at the Waterfall.

Julie Albert testified she was at the Waterfall with husband, recalling Read arriving with a drink under her coat from another bar across the street, C.F. McCarthy's.

She said she spoke with Read. Much of her testimony was similar to her husband's, describing who was at the bar and when they arrived and departed.

She said she had a migraine and left fairly soon after arriving to go home. She said her youngest son was home. Her oldest son was in the Navy and living in California at the time and her middle son Colin was at Brian Albert's home on Fairview Road.

She said her husband returned home sometime after 12, possibly 12:10 a.m., got undressed and went straight to bed. Another 10-15 minutes later, she said her son Colin returned home.

Lally asked if Colin had any injuries, and Julie said he did not.

The next morning, Julie Albert said she woke up around 8 a.m. and went to Dunkin' to buy donuts for her nephew Brian Albert Jr. for his birthday. She noticed a missed call from her friend Jennifer McCabe on her phone from 5:55 a.m., but no voicemail or text message.

She drove to her nephew's home on Fairview Road and pulled into the driveway around 8:30 a.m. She said McCabe's car was in the driveway.

She went to leave the donuts and a birthday card in her nephew's car, but her brother-in-law, Brian Albert, told her to come inside for a second.

Julie Albert said she went into the house, and Brian Albert, his wife Nicole Albert, Higgins and Jennifer McCabe and her husband Matt were already inside.

"Everyone was just sitting there and I was just looking around and everyone was visibly upset and I asked, 'What's going on?' and another maybe 30 seconds went by, and Jen said 'Something's happened to John' and I said 'John?' and she said 'John O'Keefe.' I said, 'Is he OK?' and she said, 'We don't know.'"

She said she then went home to wake her husband up and let him know what happened. They then both went back to Brian and Nicole Albert's home on Fairview Road.

Several days later, Julie Albert said she met with two state police troopers investigating O'Keefe's death.

During cross examination, Yannetti asked Julie Albert to clarify that the interview with the two state police troopers actually took place almost two weeks later instead of just several days later as Lally had said. She said that was the first time any investigators spoke to her and her husband.

Julie Albert also acknowledged that she knew one of the investigators, Proctor, who is the brother of one of her close friends. She said she has spent time at Michael Proctor's childhood home and has been to the pool at the Proctors' home.

She also said she texted regularly with Courtney Proctor, Michael Proctor's sister, but said she didn't recall how often she spoke with her on the phone.

Yannetti asked Julie Albert if she used Courtney Proctor as an intermediary to speak with Michael Proctor about the Read case. Cannone overruled the prosecution's objection, and Albert replied, "No, I did not."

Yannetti said Julie Albert and Courtney Proctor spoke on the phone 67 times, but Albert said she didn't recall the exact number of times.

The defense attorney also asked Albert if she remembered talking with Courtney Proctor on the phone for 12 minutes on Feb. 1, 2022, the date when Read was arrested in connection with O'Keefe's death. He showed her phone records, but Albert said that did not refresh her memory.

Yannetti asked Albert if she spoke with Courtney Proctor on Feb 1., 2022, and she said she did.

"What did you discuss?" Yannetti asked.

"I don't recall," Albert said.

The next day, when Read was arraigned, Yannetti said Albert spoke with Courtney Proctor thee times before the arraignment happened. After the arraignment, he said she spoke with Courtney Proctor for 27 minutes.

Albert acknowledged that she knew Read had been arrested on Feb. 1 and she was being arraigned the following day.

Court adjourned for the day just before 12:30 p.m., with Julie Albert still on the stand. A full day of testimony is expected on Friday, beginning at 9 a.m.

More on the Karen Read trial

Day 7 of Karen Read trial: Friends of John O'Keefe testify, video shows Canton bar trip

A murderous romance or a frame job? Things to know about Boston's Karen Read murder trial​

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