From the pristine sandy beaches found on the southern tip of Florida to the rocky shoreside found in Maine, the East Coast vacation spots of the United States boast some of the most remarkable destinations. Home to some of the world’s most incredible tourist attractions, it is no wonder why travelers around the globe flock to the eastern shores of the United States.
No matter if you are adventurer, artsy, history buff, family-oriented, or relaxed, you are bound to enjoy one of the most beautiful east coast vacation spots in the USA. With countless amounts of activities to enjoy in this region of the United States, it may be difficult to choose where you want to go as your top vacation spot.
Whether enjoying a awe-inspiring Broadway musical in the world-renowned city of New York or climbing one of the mighty Smoky Mountains, you will never get bored traveling to the East Coast, we promise!
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New York City, New York
Sitting at the top of our list of the most beautiful east coast vacation spots is the magnificent, ever-changing New York City.
Here you will find world-famous tourist attractions, gourmet restaurants, and designer-covered New Yorkers mixed up in a giant melting pot of culture. Whether enjoying a nice weekend in New York City or planning an extended stay, whatever experience you want will be fulfilled in the Big Apple.
We guarantee that the only problem you might face is running out of time on your trip to see everything you wanted to. So make sure to book an extended stay at one of the nearby accommodation to truly experience what this East Coast gem and explore all the popular NYC vegan and other restaurant offerings during your stay!
You will definitely want to stop by the Brooklynn Bridge, Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building while enjoying your stay in mighty New York City. Afterward, head on over to Times Square to witness first hand the amazing, colorful billboard show put on 24/7 for those passing through the area. Later, shop in the local and large chain stores found along the narrow streets of New York City to find something unique and special to bring back home with you!
If you are a history-buff or artsy, you are going to want to check out some of the nearby museums this top East Coast vacation spots offering. At the top of our list are Guggenheim, American Museum of Natural History, MOMA, and Metropolitan Museum of Art. There are also plenty of free activities to enjoy in the Big Apple. Our favorite free attractions are Central Park, walking the High Line, and people-watching in the popular Union Square.
Miami, Florida
On the far southern end, one of the most beautiful East Coast vacation spots to check out is Miami, Florida. Here you can find plenty of palm-tree lined streets to enjoy the tropical breeze strolling between your attractions.
Miami is definitely a place to see and a place you want to be seen. Quirky and high-end shops, tan people, and Art Deco buildings line the roads of Miami. While a popular retirement city for those living throughout the United States, people from around the world flock to this coastal Floridian city for a variety of reasons. Boasting soft, white-sandy beaches, you can easily hop in your bathing suit, lather on some sunscreen, grab your towel, and head out to the closest sandy coastline.
A great Instagram-worthy spot in Miami is found behind the South Beach. Known as the boardwalk, this source of entertainment is where you will find rollerblading grandmas and fashionistas carrying their tiny dogs alike. After, head over to one of Miami’s top seafood joints. Here you will find world-renowned chefs boasting delicious meals at any time of the day.
Another must-see in Miami is their trendy South Beach neighborhood known as the Art Deco Historic District. This would be the perfect place to spend the time in between your trips to the beach. Clear off the sand between your feet and hop in a fresh set of clothes to take on the unique shops, restaurants. and nightclubs found in this highly popular neighborhood in Miami, the Art Deco Historic District.
Washington, D.C.
Best known as the capital of the United States, Washington is jam-packed with iconic monuments and sentimental memorials. With a plethora of activities offered year round, there are plenty of reasons to visit Washington DC in spring, fall, summer, or winter for a splendid East Coast vacation spot.
There are plenty of tourist-worthy attractions in the nation’s capital, that is not your problem. Your problem is you might not be able to see and discover all that this top vacation spot has to offer on your adventure. To help out with that conundrum, we have determined that the city’s top four tourist attractions you must see are the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Capitol Building. If you make sure to stop by and discover these awe-inspiring, historical sites, you will definitely have had an amazing experience in Washington D.C.
If you are looking to dive deeper into this capital city, there are a ton of other worthy attractions to add to your Washington DC bucket list. For those hoping to dive into a first-hand political history, I suggest seeking out the National Mall. Here you will find most of the city’s top historic memorials like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, and much, much more.
To visit Washington D.C.’s top draw, however, you will need to explore its world-renowned museums and galleries. As some of the best in the world, you do not want to miss the city’s biggest attractions. Make sure not to forget to visit the National Gallery of Art, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Air and Space Museum during your fantastic trip to this top vacation spot on the East Coast.
Charleston, South Carolina
If you are looking for a local, southern charm experience as one of the East Coast vacation spots, make sure to consider Charleston, South Carolina as your top upcoming vacation spot.
Charleston, South Carolina offers some of the best attractions on the East Coast of the United States. Imagine rolling into this beautiful coastal city and spending a day with your kindest, most beautiful friend who happens to be a superb chef. That is exactly what you will find as you explore the quaint, narrow streets of this southern city.
Every local you find in this top vacation spot will seem to be wearing a smile and a positive, southern attitude and they converse with you with their southern drawl. Once you get to know each other, they will quickly point you to the area’s top attractions even the locals enjoy. Head down to the city’s brick-lined streets to find the most stellar spots like the Middleton Place Plantation, Magnolia Plantation & Gardens, and the harbor’s Waterfront Park.
Later, make sure to catch one of Charleston’s iconic carriage rides through their breathtaking Historic District. Boasting over 1,400 ancient structures, you will be left in awe as you transport back in time to Charleston’s golden age during the 18th century.
Niagara Falls, New York
While one of the most famous East Coast vacation spots is New York City may be the first destination you think of when traveling to the state of New York, you definitely should not forget about the breathtaking Niagara Falls. Visiting the Falls as one of the top East Coast vacation spots in the summer can be quite busy, so I suggest visiting Niagara Falls in the Winter to truly explore what the city has to offer!
Known as one of the most majestic Wonders of the World, Niagara Falls should definitely find its way onto everyone’s travel bucket list. This ginormous waterfall offers a uniquely extraordinary experience where you can stand beside the falls as the water storms over the edge of a natural cliff, spraying mist on everything in sight (including you!). So make sure to pack a nice rain jacket or poncho to keep you dry on your amazing visit to Niagara Falls.
While in the area, you can definitely visit more of Niagara Falls State Park than the three towering waterfalls you probably came to witness. With over 400 acres to discover, grab your friends and family to head out on a hike through the wilderness and learn what northern New York has to offer. For an awe-inspiring view, make sure to head over to the Observation Tower found right here in Niagara Falls State Park.
One of the more popular attractions is the Maid of the Mist boat cruise. You can either access boat tours from Canada or New York. Equipped with a poncho you will need to prepare yourself for an up-close and personal journey into the rushing falls. If you were also looking to visit Canada, make sure to check out Canada’s spectacular Horseshoe Falls.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Similar to the nation’s capital of Washington D.C., Philadelphia is home to some of the nations top historical sites as one of the best East Coast vacation spots.
Best known for its role during the colonial and revolutionary eras of United States history, you will be amazed by how many famous events took place right here in Philadelphia. Did you know that the Declaration of Independence was signed right here at Independence Hall? How about that only eleven years later the Constitution was created in the mighty city of Philadelphia? These are just some of the pivotal United States moments that you can relive in this mighty Pennsylvanian city.
While not as small of a town today, you will find a wide array of modern skyscrapers and colorful art murals juxtaposed with red-bricked, sturdy buildings and narrow, cobblestone-laid streets. Whether spending an amazing day in Philadelphia or an extended-stay in this beautiful city, there are countless attractions and Philadelphia vegan restaurants to explore.
As a primary tourist spot in Philadelphia, you will want to check out the famous Liberty Bell Pavilion area. Here you will discover the home of the liberty bell (one of the United States’ oldest symbols of independence and freedom). Later, head over to Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens where you will enjoy an exquisite, immersive mixed media journey featuring walls covered in colorful mosaics.
After, hop on one of Philadelphia’s famous horses and buggies to ride through the historic Independence National Historical Park. Finally, make a visit to the Reading Terminal Market where you can shop for locally-produced food, scrumptious Amish bread, beautiful clothes, and fine jewelry.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Lined along the coast with numerous $25 million estates, you do not need to purchase property to enjoy all that the breathtaking city of Cape Cod has to offer as one of the top East Coast vacation spots. Simply book a memorable stay at one of the best airbnbs in New England to enjoy Cape Cod the right way!
While Cape Cod may be a Massachusetts destination for rich vacation dwellers, you will find travelers from around the world flocking to the area to enjoy the beautiful coast and attractions. Located on one of the Outer Cape Cod beaches is Cape Cod National Seashore. Here you can discover the uniquely gorgeous white sand lined beach home to vacationers and wildlife alike. Later, look up Cape Cod Rail Trail to enjoy a bike, rollerblade, horseback, or walking session along a 22-mile paved trail. Previously a popular Old Colony Railroad corridor, this trail is considered a top bike trail in New England.
If you are traveling during the summer season, make sure to check out the amazing Broadway scene found in Cape Cod. For more entertainment, head over to Wellfleet Drive-in when you can enjoy a nearby mini-golf course and later watch a movie for a perfect break from the sandy beaches. Those looking to discover the history of the area should check out Heritage Museums & Gardens. Car fanatics will drool over the antique automobile collection and art-lovers can browse the large collection of American folk art.
For those looking to spend more time in the scenic outdoors, pack some sunscreen and head to Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge. Boasting over 7,600 acres of protected dunes, fresh and saltwater marshes, and an abandoned lighthouse, this beautiful wildlife refuge will truly make you feel like a real trailblazer.
Hampton, New Hampshire
Rounding out our list of the best East Coast vacation spots, you will be disappointed by what Hampton, New Hampshire has to offer travelers visiting from around the world.
Start your adventure by driving along New Hampshire’s famous 13-mile coastline. Found at the end, you will discover the very popular Hampton Beach, a broad stretch of sandy-shores overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This seaside spot has been a beloved destination since the early 1840s. The neighboring Hampton Beach Village District brings in vacationers with the Sea Shell State, a playground for kids, and well-maintained bathrooms. Plus, the stage famously hosts the Miss Hampton Beauty Pageant in late July while hosting concerts every night of the week between June and August.
Beer lovers from all over will enjoy the local attraction found at Smuttynose Brewing Company. Come and visit historic Towle Farm which hosts this popular brewery, one of New England’s oldest and most beloved craft breweries. You can take a tour, enjoy a guided tasting, or shop at this brilliant attraction. Afterward, head on out to North Beach which boasts amazing tide pools filled with Hermit crabs, Jonah crabs, and sea snails for you to discover.
Another popular historical attraction in Hampton. New Hampshire is the Tuck Museum. Learn about local history and book a guided tour to be well-informed on the past of this breathtaking town. After, check out the top tour in Hampton at Hampton Airfield. This is a well-known stop to discover model air planes and grab a delicious bite to eat. We assure you that you will fall in love with the breakfast offered at this quaint stop.
Even if you only have one day to spare, you will not regret flocking to one of the best East Coast vacation spots for your adventure. Home to some of the top vacation spots in the world, you will want the drive or fly the distance to one of these breathtaking cities.
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