New York City, Broadway and Times Square

The Best Cities to visit on Americas East Coast

Enjoy an East Coast city escape

 

We’ve compiled a list of some of the best cities to visit on America’s East Coast. Whilst we may be entirely biased, America just can’t be beaten!

Exploring cities on the East Coast of the USA is a dynamic journey through history, culture, and a kaleidoscope of urban experiences. Here, we’ve picked just a few of our favourite BIG cities to give you a taste of an adventure in The East.


1. Manhattan, New York

New York really does have it all—it is one of The Best Places in the East. Whether you explore the metropolitan city for a few days or venture into New York State and the countryside towns along the East Coast, your New York road trip will be fantastic.

Where is Manhattan? Everyone surely knows of New York City. Made up of five boroughs, New York City is surrounded by water, including the Hudson River and the Atlantic Ocean. Brooklyn, Manhattan, The Bronx, Queens, and Staten Island are the boroughs that form the famous city, each diverse in its own way.

What to do in NYC? Firstly, get yourself to Times Square! Right in the heart of the district, Times Square is the iconic tourist stop. Bright lights surround it, adverts illuminating the giant screens and the odd celebrity. 

You’ll find the cheapest show tickets in Times Square – so long as you’re prepared to stand in a queue for the morning. It’s not as bad as it sounds, with all the interesting characters around and making for superb people-watching! Take some time to explore Central Park, spotting filming locations from film and TV. Take a rowing boat out on the lake, lay on the Great Lawn or make a wish at the Bethesda Fountain. The Empire State Building, The Edge, One World Observatory and The Rockefeller Building are incredible buildings to visit. In any case, each one is certain to give you some of the city’s best views. 

When is the best time to visit New York? New York is truly a year-round destination. Spring offers pleasant weather, blooming flowers in Central Park, and fewer crowds than summer. Summer brings lively festivals, rooftop bars, and outdoor events, but it can be hot and crowded. Autumn sees Mild temperatures, beautiful fall foliage, and significant events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade. Winter has a magical holiday atmosphere with Christmas markets, ice skating, and the famous Times Square New Year’s Eve celebration, but it’s cold and snowy.

Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore New York

Central Park, NYC. New York to LA

Central Park, New York


2. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Where is Philadelphia? Your East Coast road trip will likely pass through Pennsylvania’s largest city, Philadelphia. Just 2 hours drive away from New York City, 2.5 hours from Washington DC and just under three hours to Harpers Ferry, Philadelphia is certianly a great stop along your road trip.

What to do on a Philadelphia Road Trip? Firstly, the Liberty Bell is in the Independence National Historical Park. Arrive early to avoid the queues at this popular attraction. No visit to Philadelphia is complete without a trip to Reading Terminal Market, the city’s most famous food hub! You will find something delicious among the local produce, Freshly baked pastries, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches and ice cream to die for. 

Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Philadelphia…

Philadelphia - Independence Hall, East Coast America

Independence Hall, Philadelphia


3. Washington DC

Where is Washington, DC? You will reach the Capital Region as you cruise the East Coast. Washington borders Maryland and Virginia.

What to do in Washington, DC? With a wealth of culture, museums, and monuments, there’s loads to enjoy during your visit to Washington, D.C. The Air and Space Museum, The Museum of African American History and the Museum of Natural History offer free admission. Stroll along the National Mall and enjoy the monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial. Visit George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon, across the Potomac River.

Where to eat in Washington, DC?  Washington, DC, has become somewhat of a culinary destination. Whether enjoying seafood on the Georgetown waterfront, cosmopolitan vibes in Penn Quarter and Chinatown, or Michelin-starred fine dining on Capitol Hill, each neighbourhood has sensational restaurants in addition to its marvellous chefs.

Click here to view our Road Trip Itineraries that explore Washington, DC…

Washington DC, USA - Lincoln Memorial by night

Lincoln Memorial by night, Washington DC


Whether indulging in iconic street eats, getting lost in museum mazes, or simply people-watching in bustling parks, the best cities on the East Coast know how to leave an impression.

A road trip along America’s East Coast is an unforgettable journey through some of the country’s most iconic and vibrant cities. Every stop offers something unique, from the historic charm of Boston to the bustling energy of New York City, the cultural richness of Washington, D.C., and the southern hospitality of Charleston and Savannah. Whether you’re exploring scenic coastal highways, indulging in world-class cuisine, or soaking in the history and culture of each destination, altogether, the East Coast delivers one of America’s most incredible road trips of all time. So, pack your bags, hit the open road, and experience the best cities to visit in America’s East Coast.

Lastly, if you’re ready to begin your adventure to the East Coast, then Contact us and get started on your road trip Adventure! 

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