2 Weeks on the East Coast USA: 3 Itineraries

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The East Coast of America is a travel destination with plenty to offer everyone. The scenic natural beauty and exciting cities, which stretch from Florida in the South to Maine in the North, is an excellent region to explore.

I actually spent 4 weeks in this part of the US during winter. And while I don’t think you need that much, know that there are plenty of things to do if you find yourself in the same situation as I did.

If you have 2 weeks on the East Coast USA, you could do so much. Whether you enjoy skiing, dining, water activities, hiking, or visiting museums, you’ll undoubtedly find a variety of activities to do in the top places in this region.

Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Florida, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia are among the 14 states that comprise the East Coast of the USA.

These states border the Atlantic Ocean and provide a variety of coastal activities and sights, including theme parks, beaches, lighthouses, and museums.

RELATED POST: If you prefer to see the West Coast of the US, we also have a 2 weeks in the West Coast USA Itinerary

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING THE EAST COAST OF USA

4 images - Miami Beach, New York Empire State Building, Capitol Building in Washington DC, Fall Foilage in Vermont - 2 Weeks on the East Coast USA Itinerary

Before you get on your computer and make some travel arrangements, check out these things you should know about going on a trip to the East Coast of the US. This will help you ensure that you’re visiting at the right time and see if you can make a road trip or need to fly.

When is the best time to go to the East Coast US

This depends on what you want to do. The East Coast of the US is massive and features super unique seasons. For example, if you want to avoid high humidity in Florida, you must go in winter. But that means it will be too cold to explore around New England covered in snow in winter.

If you want to mix the south and northern east coast, it’s best to go during early spring for good weather in the south. At the same time, it’s no longer freezing in New England.

On the other hand, if you just want to see New England, then come visit in the autumn season when the fall foliage is at its best colour at the same time, it’s not too cold yet.

The best time to visit the East Coast of the USA is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November). These months offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful foliage in the fall.

Peak season is during the summer (June to August) when it’s warmest, attracting the most tourists, especially to beach destinations.

Winter (December to March) can be cold and snowy, especially in the northern parts. The rainy season varies but generally includes spring and summer.

RELATED POST: What to pack for a 2-week trip

Are 2 weeks enough for East Coast USA

Not really. As mentioned before, it’s a big region. However, if you are realistic about the places you want to see and decide to mix flying and driving, 14 days on the East Coast of the US can be ideal.

In this article, I’m featuring three travel itineraries. You can either just cover the south or just the north – which can be done as a road trip on the east coast of the US. But you can drive first if you want to do the entire region.

Then after exploring for seven days, take a flight to your next destination (especially if driving is longer than 6 hours), and then rent another vehicle there. Plan to see about 3-4 cities that are near one another.

Getting around

There is a train system (AMTRAK) on the East Coast, but they’re not well-connected through each state. Most trains travel within each state only, while the others are for cargo shipping only.

There are also public buses, trolleys, and subways you can rely on. Travelling around via bus and train is the most affordable, but it can take a chunk of your time from your limited days.

My best recommendation for getting around the East Coast US is to rent a car, especially if you plan to explore states or cities near one another. Then you can also book tours for city sightseeing to take a break from driving.

Of course, there are ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft. There are plenty of taxis, but they can be very pricey.

If you want to see the northern and southern parts of the East Coast, booking a flight is better when the driving is longer than 5 or 6 hours.

Language and currency

English is the primary language in the US. But once you reach Florida, especially in Miami, many people speak Spanish, and even restaurant signs and menus are displayed in both languages.

On the other hand, if you reach Vermont and Maine, you’ll notice how some people speak French since it’s by the border to the French-Canada Region of Quebec.

The US Dollar (USD) is the main currency here. You can pay both by cash or bank card. Cashless payment is super typical here, and most locals don’t even carry any cash with them. But as a visitor, having at least $50 with you for emergencies is best.

Visa

Since this is part of the US, the visa policy in place is not super easy. For travellers from Europe, Canada, Chile, Japan, Australia, South Korea, New Zealand, and Singapore, you can enjoy visa-free and enter the US for up to 6 months.

Other travellers must apply for the US tourist visa (B1/B2) before your planned trip.

What is the average cost for 2 weeks on the East Coast USA

On average, you should budget a minimum of $2,500 for 14 days on the east coast of the US. Accommodation will be the most expensive, followed by gas prices, then food. You can go on a shoestring budget of $1,500 if you stay in hostels or rent a small van where you can sleep.

For luxury, you must have a $4,000 budget to sleep in four or five-star hotels and eat out in top-dollar restaurants.

You should remember that store prices don’t include sales tax. This means that when you checkout, you’re more likely to pay a bit, around 8% more. You are also expected to give a 20%-25% tip in the service industry. This is for services such as food, taxis, hotels, etc.

This estimated budget doesn’t include your flight to and from the US, travel insurance, and travel items you will need.

Other basic travel tips

Medical travel insurance is a must for travelling to the US. The medical cost here, especially for emergencies, is super expensive.

You must get insurance from companies that are global or US-based, so you don’t have to expect to pay out of your pocket and wait for reimbursement. Leaving with a hospital bill in the US could affect your future travels in the country.

I know 2 weeks on the East Coast USA is not a long trip, but it’s undoubtedly not worth the risk of not getting medical insurance coverage. It’s also possible that the immigration officer will ask you to show one, and this might be a reason to deny you entry.

PINNED MAP OF TOP THINGS TO SEE ON EAST COAST US

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS ON THE EAST COAST USA ITINERARY

Planning 2 weeks on the East Coast USA can be challenging, as there is so much to see and do in the region. However, I have curated some example itineraries that can serve as a guide for you.

These itineraries include one for first-time visitors, one for a tour of New England, and one for a trip along the Southeast Coast.

The suggested itineraries are not mandatory, you can always make your own itinerary, depending on your interests and preferences. It’s important to note that the East Coast is a huge region with many more places to visit and things to do.

MUST-READ: 2 weeks in the US (across the country – 7 itineraries)

Itinerary #1: First-time visitor (Boston, New York, Washington D.C., Miami)

This itinerary for 2 weeks on the East Coast USA is designed for those visiting the East Coast for the first time and looking to experience some of the most iconic cities.

It includes New York City, Boston, Washington D.C., and Miami stops. These cities offer diverse experiences and attractions, providing a comprehensive overview of this region.

Apart from that, this itinerary is ideal, particularly if you have children who want to go to Disneyland, as it affords plenty of rides, parades, and shows that will keep them entertained for hours on end.

I highly recommend coming in the late spring or late summer season. It has warm weather and is not too humid.

This itinerary is most efficiently done by air travel (domestic flight), with the option to fly into Boston and fly back home from Miami.

However, if you prefer to drive, it is possible to do so from Boston to Washington D.C. However, remember that you must leave your rented car and catch a flight to Miami for the last leg of the trip.

2 images- downtown New York City and Acorn Street in Boston

Boston and around for 4 days

Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is an exciting city with world-class museums, beautiful parks, and green spaces. If you’re interested in higher education, stroll through the campus of Harvard University, one of the most prestigious universities in the world.

You can also check out Boston Common, America’s oldest public park, which provides visitors an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy the outdoors. During my visit here, which is about a week, I went for a run at the Boston Common and it’s also where the Freedom Trail starts.

Located in the heart of the New England Region, this city is an excellent starting point for day trips. You can see some of America’s most iconic historic sites and attractions there. For those looking for a change of scenery, you can plan a day trip to the long beaches of Cape Cod.

New York City and around for 4 days

New York City is a global destination renowned for its energy and iconic landmarks. Tourists are attracted to this bustling metropolis to enjoy the famous Broadway shows, indulge in world-class shopping and dining experiences, and explore the many popular tourist destinations.

I was a typical tourist in New York. I went to Times Square, saw a show on Broadway, ate at a local pizza place, saw the Lady Liberty, and walked everywhere. I honestly understand why many people dream of living here,

In terms of safety in New York, where there are lots of homeless, there’s also a big presence of police in the touristy areas. So, in general, I felt quite safe during my trip there.

The Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Central Park are among the must-see attractions that draw visitors to the city.

The most popular option from Boston to New York City is a direct flight with a duration of 1 hr 20 min, although you still have to arrive at the airport at least an hour and a half before your flight (depending on Boston traffic and how busy the airport).

On the other hand, the road distance from Boston to New York City is 364.8 km (226.7 miles), and you can reach it by a 4 hr 40 min-car ride via route I-84. I took the bus from Boston and it took a bit over 6 hours since the bus was not going through a direct route.

Washington D.C for 3 days

Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, is an ideal destination for those interested in politics as it is home to many of the country’s most important government buildings.

Apart from that, The National Mall is a must-see attraction, featuring the city’s most prominent landmarks, such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Smithsonian Museums.

Visitors also have the opportunity to take a tour inside the White House, though it is important to note that these tours must be arranged in advance through your embassy or Congressional office.

There are several daily flights between New York City and Washington D.C., about 1 hr 23 min. When driving, the quickest route you should follow is I-95 S which is roughly 4 hr 25 min across a total distance of approximately 364 km (226.2 mi).

2 images - Everglades National Park Airboat and The White House and Capitol Building

Florida for 4 days

I also thought of Florida is the destination for people of all ages. Bring the kids to the theme park and the adults to the beach and the bars.

Anyone looking for a magical and unforgettable vacation experience will find four incredible theme parks at Orlando’s Walt Disney World, including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Each has unique attractions, making it the best place to conclude your two weeks on East Coast USA trip.

Located on the waterfront in Miami, The Bayside Marketplace is the place to be if you’re looking for a place to shop and dine, as it features over 120 stores and 30 restaurants. Visiting Miami and Orlando on the same trip can be a great way to experience the best of Florida in 4 days.

You can take a 2 hr 48 min direct flight from Washington D.C. to Miami. The non-stop flight between Washington D.C. and Orlando is approximately 2 hr 40 min. You can also fly to Orlando, spend a day or two, and then drive down from Orland to Miami, which takes just a little over 3 hours to finish your 2 weeks on the East Coast USA

Itinerary #2: New England Route (Boston, Coastal Maine/Acadia, Burlington/White Mountain National Forest, Springfield, Providence)

History buffs will enjoy visiting these places since this itinerary takes you through the first colony area of the British Empire in the Americas.

The route passes through charming coastal towns, picturesque countryside, and bustling cities, offering a diverse range of experiences for travellers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

The Maine Archipelago is a group of islands situated off the coast of Maine, known for its scenic beauty. Some places you need to add to your itinerary include The Permaquid Point Lighthouse, Old Orchard Beach, The Farnsworth Art Museum, and Acadia National Park.

I recommend booking a flight to Boston as your starting point and catching home from Boston or Providence at the end of your trip to make it more of a circular itinerary.

One of the major draws of the New England Route is during autumn, when the region’s trees put on a spectacular display of fall foliage, making it an ideal time to explore the region’s parks, forests, and countryside.

However, the New England Route is best avoided in winter unless you plan to visit ski resorts. If you’d rather spend time in nature than the city, skip Burlington and head straight to White Mountain National Forest.

2 images - Saint Johnsbury in Vermont and Acadia National Park rocky shoreline

Boston for 3 days

Boston is a premier destination for those interested in the history of America’s colonial and Revolutionary War eras since it holds more history of this period than any other in the country, making it an ideal starting point for an East Coast USA trip.

Unsurprisingly, its main historical sites have become a famous pilgrimage for Americans and international visitors seeking to understand this period of time.

Riding the iconic Swan Boats around the lake surrounding the Boston Public Garden’s centre is one of the city’s most memorable experiences for people of all ages.

Popular tourist destinations in Boston include the Freedom Trail, a 3-mile long trail showcasing 16 historical sites, including the Old South Meeting House and the USS Constitution Museum. It took me about 3 hours to finish this trail as I took my time in stopping at every site.

Coast Maine and Acadia National Park for 3 days

The Permaquid Point Lighthouse offers magnificent coast and Atlantic Ocean views. Old Orchard Beach is a classic beach resort that embraces its retro charm as it is New England’s only remaining full-scale amusement park on a beach that will delight visitors of all ages.

In addition, The Farnsworth Art Museum has an exceptional collection of art by Maine-affiliated artists and its Wyeth Center, showcasing the works of N.C., Andrew, and James Wyeth. It is a must-see for fans of the Wyeth family.

For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, Acadia National Park, located on the coast of Maine, extends a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, cycling, and kayaking.

The park is even home to Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak at 1,530 feet, providing views of the coast and islands. Other highlights in the park are Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and Thunder Hole.

If you’re looking for a beautiful road trip, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road from Boston to Acadia National Park. With a distance of 451.3 km (280.4 mi), the drive is about 4 hr 28 min and takes you along the scenic route of I-95 N.

Burlington or White Mountain National Forest for 3 days

You can choose between White Mountain and Burlington, depending on what you want to do and see. You can see both, but your schedule will be tight.

Suppose you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Burlington. In that case, you should definitely experience taking a cruise in Lake Champlain as it presents stunning views of the mountain, and provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of the lake and the Revolutionary War.

With over 100 stores and restaurants, the Church Street Marketplace, a charming pedestrian mall, is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

The White Mountain National Forest is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of outdoor activities year-round. One of the area’s main draws is its high peaks, including the iconic Mount Washington, the tallest mountain in New England.

Adventure-seekers can take on the challenging Franconia Ridge hike, which features a 9-mile loop trail with views of Mount Lincoln, Mount Lafayette, and Little Haystack Mountain.

On the other hand, there are also beginner-friendly options like the Flume Gorge hike, a 2-mile round-trip trail that leads to waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views.

From Acadia National Park, you can drive directly to Burlington, which is around 6 hours, taking up 333 miles.

If you want to stop at White Mountain first and spend a night or two, the drive from Acadia National Park is approximately 3 hr 32 min through route I-95 S which spans 294.7 km (183.1 mi).

Then continue your drive from White Mountain National Forest to Burlington. This will take you under 1 hr 44 min on a scenic route along US-302 W and I-89 N with an entire distance of 136 km (84.5 mi).

2 images - Sakonnet in Rhode Island and Old Building in Harvard University in Massachusetts

Springfield for 2 days

Packed with a dozen thrilling coasters and a waterpark, get your adrenaline pumping at Six Flags, the largest theme park in New England. You can also pay homage to the sport of basketball at the Basketball Hall of Fame, which honours over 400 star players and coaches, featuring exhibits, skills challenges, and shooting contests.

Step back in history at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, and you’ll be at the very spot where guns that won the American Revolution were manufactured.

If you plan to get from Burlington to Springfield, you can drive by car down routes I-89 S and I-91 S. The trip will take about 3 hr 12 min and spans 336.5 km (209.1 mi).

Alternatively, if you’re skipping Burlington, Springfield is just a 2 hr 43 min drive away from White Mountain National Park via I-91 S for the entire distance of 255.9 km (159 mi).

You can also skip Springfield and drive directly from Burlington to Providence, which will take 4 hours (264 miles/424.8 km). Fro, White Mountain National Forest to Providence, that’s a 2 hr and 45 min journey covering 176 miles (283 km).

Providence for 3 days

Providence is the capital city of Rhode Island State. It is rich in history with incredible New England architecture, you can visit the State House and the John Brown House Museum. You can also dive into the culinary where you can check out food trucks and fantastic seafood dishes.

While at the park, visit the Botanical Center, New England’s largest public indoor display garden that boasts 12,000 square feet of gardens.

Whether you’re a fan of French Impressionists, Japanese prints, ancient Egyptian designs, or contemporary art, you’ll be able to indulge your artistic passions and discover new favourites at the RISD Museum of Art.

Travelling by car is a flexible way to get from Springfield to Providence. The quickest route is to go along I-90 E, which takes an average time of 1 hr 29 min from a distance of 136.5 km (84.8 mi).

Itinerary #3: Southeast Coast (Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, Savannah, Atlanta)

If you’re looking for a fun-filled adventure on the Southeast Coast of the United States, look no further, as I have the perfect itinerary for your 14 days on the East Coast USA.

Start your journey in Miami, where you can soak up the sun on Miami Beach. Next, head to Orlando, home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

From there, travel to Jacksonville, where you can explore the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Then, head to Savannah and take in the views of River Street. Finally, end your journey in Atlanta and visit the famous Georgia Aquarium.

This route is ideal for a road trip since the distance between the cities is not too long. I recommend booking a flight to Miami and ending your trip to Atlanta, where you can fly back home.

2 images - Savannah River in Georgia and Disney Worlds in Orlando Florida

Miami for 3 days days

Escape to the sun-soaked paradise of Miami, a premier vacation destination in South Florida known for its picturesque beaches. Miami Beach is a seaside haven with peaceful neighbourhoods, lively entertainment hotspots, and miles of soft-sand beaches.

Take a stroll and admire the pastel-coloured buildings from the 1930s and 1940s in the Art Deco Historic District.

Experience the wild side of Florida with a visit to The Everglades National Park, where visitors can witness the incredible array of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, crocodiles, and more, in their natural habitat.

When it comes to beautiful beaches, you can also spend 2 weeks in Hawaii.

Orlando for 3 days

You can’t spend 2 weeks on the East Coast of the US without seeing at least one theme park or themed museum. If you’re looking for an out-of-this-world experience, add the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to your list of day trips since it provides a glimpse into one of NASA’s most well-known operations centres.

Another must-visit destination is Discovery Cove, which allows you to interact with ocean life in a natural setting. You can sign up for snorkelling and discover coral reed with a full dive helmet. You’ll also see stingrays, and even swim with dolphins.

For fans of the Harry Potter series, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the place to be. It is designed to immerse visitors in the magical world of Harry Potter, such as experiencing thrilling rides, sampling delicious butterbeer, trying wand magic classes, and so on.

The fastest way to get from Miami to Orlando is by plane, with a 1 hr 9 min flight duration. If you prefer to travel by car, the distance between the two cities is around 378.5 km (235.2 mi) which is around 3 hr 28 min along Florida’s Turnpike.

Jacksonville for 2 days

One of the main reasons to visit Jacksonville is its beautiful beaches, like Jacksonville Beach and Atlantic Beach, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

Apart from that, Jacksonville is also home to several cultural attractions, such as the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens and the Kingsley Plantation, which give visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history.

Foodies will also appreciate the diverse range of dining options available in this city, from seafood restaurants and steakhouses to craft breweries and bars.

The road trip between Orlando and Jacksonville takes about 2 hr and 10 min, covering a distance of 229.8 km (142.9 mi). You can take routes I-4E and I-95 N.

2 images - Miami Beach and downtown Atlanta

Savannah for 3 days

From grand old mansions to lush parks with fountains and sprawling moss-covered trees, Savannah exudes a timeless elegance that is truly breathtaking. Strolling down Bull Street is the best way to experience the preserved Savannah Historic District.

With its cobblestone streets and restored warehouses, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants on River Street or take a boat tour along the Savannah River to get the best riverfront photo ops.

You can expect the trip from Jacksonville to Savannah, which spans 223.5 km (138.9 mi), by driving to take 2 hr 4 min through route I-95 N.

Atlanta for 3 days

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational experience for the whole family, the High Museum of Art is a great choice.

If you’re looking for a serene escape amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, look no further than the 30-acre Atlanta Botanical Garden.

The most convenient way to travel from Savannah to Atlanta is to take a flight, which typically takes about 1 hr 11 min with Delta Airlines. If you drive, the quickest route is to take I-16 W to I-75 N. The estimated arrival time is 3 hr 52 min through the entire distance of approximately 399.1 km (248 mi).

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN (per city)

Atlanta, Georgia

Burlington, Vermont

Boston, Massachusetts

Coastal Maine/White Mountain National Forest

Miami, Florida

New York City

Orlando, Florida

Savannah, Georgia

Washington D.C.

MUST-TRY AMERICAN DISHES, DRINKS, AND SNACKS

You’ll visit lots of cities and at least eight states if you follow one of the 2 weeks on the East Coast USA itinerary. This means you can explore this region’s cuisine because it’s a must-not-miss.

The food scene from New England to the seafood capital of Maryland to the southern region is impeccable. Whether you like meat and seafood or are a dessert fan, there’s something for everyone. Heck, if you’re a brewery chaser, don’t miss out on discovering various breweries throughout your trip. Here’s a list of must-try dishes from the East Coast of the US:

  • Lobster Roll (New England)
  • Pizza (New York)
  • Clam Chowder (New England)
  • Philly Cheesesteak (Philadelphia)
  • Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs (Maryland/Washington D.C.)
  • Bagels and Lox (New York)
  • Barbecue (South or North Carolina)
  • Crab Cakes (Maryland/Washington D.C.)
  • Cuban Sandwich (Flordia)
  • Shrimp and Grits
  • Buffalo Wings (New York)
  • Portuguese Sweet Bread (New England)
  • Key Lime Pie (Florida)
  • Clambake (New England)
  • Craft Beers (from Maine to Florida)
  • Bourbon (Southern)
  • Eggnog (Northeast)
  • Cider (Northeast)
3 images - lobster roll, key lime pie, and crab cakes

ACCOMMODATIONS

Boston, Massachusetts

Portland, Maine

Burlington, Vermont

Springfield, Massachusetts

Providence, Rhode Island

New York City

Washington D.C.

Atlanta, Georgia

Savannah, Georgia

Jacksonville, Florida

Orlando, Florida

Miami, Florida

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS ON THE EAST COAST USA

From bustling cities to quaint coastal towns, the East Coast offers diverse experiences. The East Coast is also a foodie’s paradise, with various cuisines and dining options. You’ll find it here whether you’re in the mood for a classic lobster roll in Maine or a slice of New York-style pizza.

You can also visit world-renowned museums, catch a Broadway show, or simply wander the streets and soak up the cities’ energy.

This region’s history and natural beauty are splendid, and a two-week trip will allow you to immerse yourself in all the East Coast fully has to offer. With so much to see and do, a vacation in this region should not be missed.

I hope I was able to help you plan your 2 weeks on the East Coast USA, whether you’re looking for a beach vacation or an autumn road trip to see the fall foliage.

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Travel the East Coast of the USA for two weeks: Experience New York's skyline, Washington D.C.'s monuments, and Boston's history. Enjoy the beaches of Florida, the charm of Savannah, and the beauty of the Appalachian Trail. via @twoweektraveller