What better way to spend your vacation than East Coast road trips? The road trip has left an indelible mark on the American psyche. And no location is more undervalued than the East Coast when it comes to road excursions.
Taking East Coast Road Trips
While the East Coast lacks what the Midwest or West Coast part of the United States offers on road trips, there’s a whole different vibe that makes East Coast Road trips a unique experience. First of all, there’s four different seasons and there’s an amazing diversity of cultures. There’s no better way to experience those two things than on the open road.
Whether you frequently go on road trips or you’re thinking about going on your first one, here’s a few destinations that you absolutely must road trip too once in your lifetime. Keep in mind, however, this is just the tip of the iceberg. There’s so many beautiful places to visit across the country, some more popular than others.
Overseas Highway: Miami to Key West
The Overseas Highway in Florida links Miami and Key West with a stretch of 127.5 miles long. It’s quite a sight to see. Crossing the highway takes about four hours, so there’s a few stops to take and enjoy. The Seven-Mile Bridge is interesting. It’s the longest bridge in the Florida Keys and while driving across it, you feel like you’re floating across the water.
During the road trip, stop at Tavernier to see the Conch Reef Sanctuary Preservation Area. It is home to a plethora of tropical fish and coral and is ideal for snorkeling and shallow diving.
If you’re hungry in the Keys, have some key lime pie at Kermit’s Key West Key Lime Shoppe. You’re welcome!
Finally, if you need a hotel, spend the night at The Perry Hotel Key West. The hotel is hidden away from the crowds at Stock Island. The food is incredible too.
Hudson Valley
Hudson Valley is a destination most New Yorkers will name when you ask about where to go for a road trip. All you do is take I-87 upstate or the Metro North if you just want to take the train.
On a trip to Hudson Valley, make sure to stop at Storm King, a 500-acre lawn with sculptures in an outdoor museum. Then, stop by Zak Pelaccio’s Backbar for their delicious tequila-spiked-slushies.
Blue Ridge Parkway: The Great Smoky Mountains
If you’re planning any East Coast road trips, you have to see Blue Ridge Parkway once in your life. It runs 469 miles across 29 counties in Virginia and North Carolina. It’s America’s longest linear park.
Driving the scenic route through the Great Smoky Mountains gives you the most beautiful views. However, during the early morning or at sunset, a thick mist can fall over the area, so drive carefully. You don’t want to get into a car accident and need to hire a car accident lawyer.
One stop to make during this trip would be the Dollywood theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. It has typical theme park thrill rides, as well as concerts, crafts and music from the Smoky Mountain area.
All the driving will probably make you hungry, so we recommend Benton’s Smoky Mountain Country Hams. No where else are you getting ham like this. They are slow-cured, and aged nine-to-ten months.
Cape Cod Peninsula
When one thinks of the East Coast road trips, New England comes to mind. And when you think of New England, you can’t forget about Cape Cod. Cruising the U.S. Route 6 from Providence to Cape Cod is filled with lots to do, from wineries to ocean breezes to fresh clam chowder.
If you’re up for a day at a winery, stop at Truro Vineyards + South Hollow Spirits just south of Provincetown. The vineyard makes one incredible gin. Then, when you’re hungry, get some renowned New England Clam chowder at The Chatham Bars Inn restaurant.
