So, how to travel the East Coast of America, what to do in East Coast USA? Let’s check out our latest east coast usa travel guide with best places to visit, top things to do in East Coast America, what to eat, useful travel tips and more in this comprehensive blog!
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Traveling to the East Coast of the US opens up a great opportunity to explore diverse nature and unique cultural slices. Save the tips and guides of traveling to the East Coast of the US in the article below!
If you have fallen in love with the vast Pacific coast of the West Coast, you definitely won’t want to miss the deep Atlantic Ocean on the East Coast. Whether it’s your first trip to the US, your fifth trip, or even if you live there; we ensure that you will always find a reason to visit the East Coast, which is filled with amazing landscapes, historical attractions, culture and traditions, and delicious food.
In this post, discover the East Coast USA travel itinerary ideas to start planning your own!
East Coast USA travel guide: Interesting Facts About the East Coast of the United States
The East Coast of the United States stretches along the eastern Atlantic coast, from Maine in the far north to Florida in the far south. This region is not only the birthplace of American history but also the cultural, political, and economic center of the country, marking important events such as the Revolutionary War and the founding of the United States.
The Heart of American Culture & History
The East Coast is a place where tradition and modernity meet. Iconic cities such as Boston, Philadelphia, and New York are treasure troves of history and culture. You can visit famous monuments such as the Liberty Memorial in Philadelphia or the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The capital city of Washington, D.C., with the White House, the Capitol, and the Kennedy Center, is a place to preserve and honor the unique political and artistic heritage of the United States.
The World’s Most Prosperous Economic Center
The Real New York: Bronx, Brooklyn, Harlem, Queens & Coney Island
The East Coast is a vibrant economic region with the presence of leading financial centers such as New York City – home to Wall Street and the world’s largest stock market. Boston is famous for its prestigious universities such as Harvard and MIT, while Philadelphia and Washington D.C. are important industrial, commercial and political centers, contributing to shaping the national economy and policy.
Diverse & Impressive Nature
Not only famous for its bustling cities, the East Coast also impresses with its rich natural landscape. The Appalachian Mountains stretch across many states with beautiful hiking trails, while the Outer Banks coast in North Carolina is famous for its long sandy beaches and iconic lighthouses. This is an ideal place for exploring the mountains or relaxing on the poetic beach.
When is the best season to travel to the East Coast of the United States?
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The East Coast of the United States is beautiful all year round, but the best seasons are spring (March – May) and fall (September – November). In spring, cherry blossoms bloom in Washington D.C., and the weather is cool and fresh. In fall, the red leaves in New England and Boston create a poetic scene. If you love the sea and vibrant festivals, summer (June – August) is the ideal time, but it is often crowded and expensive. Winter (December – February) brings a warm Christmas atmosphere in New York and ski resorts in Vermont.
Which States Are Included in the East Coast of the United States?
The East Coast of the United States, also known as the Atlantic Coast, is the region along the eastern coastline of the United States bordering the North Atlantic Ocean. Geographically, the East Coast includes 14 coastal states, located east of the Appalachian Mountains: Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida.
In addition to famous urban centers such as New York City, Washington, D.C., Boston, Miami, and Orlando, the East Coast also has many other notable cities such as Portland (Maine), Atlantic City (New Jersey), or Philadelphia (Pennsylvania). These places all have their own characteristics, from long history to beautiful natural scenery.
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The East Coast of the United States is not only an ideal place to enjoy the brilliant New England in the fall or drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway in North Carolina. Here, you can explore historic lighthouses in Maine, visit the Kennedy Space Center in Florida, or soak in the sunset in Key West, the southernmost point of the United States.
East Coast America travel guide: What to Prepare Before Traveling to the East Coast of the United States?
Do You Need a Visa to Travel to the US?
Yes, you need a visa to travel to the US. Bring the necessary documents such as a passport, a standard portrait photo, an interview invitation letter, and documents proving financial resources or ties to return to Vietnam. An important note is that you should prepare carefully for the interview and make an appointment early because the schedule is often full during peak season.
Guide for Booking Flights from Vietnam to the US
Many airlines operate flights from Vietnam to the East Coast of the United States, including reputable airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Korean Air, Japan Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Qatar Airways. Flights often transit at major international airports such as Incheon (Korea), Narita (Japan), or Doha (Qatar) before arriving at major cities on the East Coast such as New York, Washington D.C., or Boston. Round-trip airfare from Vietnam to the East Coast of the United States ranges from 22 to 40 million VND, depending on the time and destination.
To optimize the cost of traveling to the East Coast of the United States, you need to note a few things:
- Book tickets 2-3 months in advance: This gives you the opportunity to hunt for good prices and choose a suitable schedule.
- Follow promotions: Airlines often have special promotions during holidays or low seasons.
- Note that prices may vary depending on the exchange rate and policies of each airline, so you should check directly on the airline’s website or reputable booking platforms for the most updated information.
How Much Does It Cost to Stay on the East Coast of the United States?
When planning a trip to the East Coast of the United States, choosing the right hotel will make your trip more comfortable and convenient. Here are some suggestions depending on your budget and needs.
Hotel chains such as Hilton Garden Inn or Holiday Inn are popular choices with prices ranging from $100 to $200/night (about VND 2.4 to 4.8 million). These hotels are often conveniently located and offer basic amenities such as breakfast, free wifi and clean rooms.
If you want to experience luxury, consider hotels like the Ritz-Carlton or Four Seasons, which cost between $250 and $500 per night. These options often have central locations and high-end amenities, from spas and restaurants to luxury rooms.
Hostels like the HI New York City Hostel are a great budget solution, with prices ranging from just $30 to $70 per night. Not only are these hostels clean, but they also offer the opportunity to make friends with travelers from all over the world.
Notes on Hotel Locations When Traveling to the United States:
- New York: Choose Queens or Brooklyn if you want to save money, but still have easy access to Manhattan.
- Washington D.C.: The area near the National Mall is convenient for visiting museums and memorials.
- Boston: The Back Bay or Cambridge areas offer a variety of affordable options with convenient transportation.
- (*) Book 2-3 months in advance, especially during peak seasons like fall, to ensure good prices and plenty of options.
- (*) Book your hotel conveniently on Klook today to get the best deals and make your travel plans easier!
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Popular Transportation Options on the East Coast of the United States
- Plane: Traveling by plane is a quick and convenient option between major cities like New York, Boston, Washington D.C., and Philadelphia. Airlines like American Airlines, Delta, and United offer affordable domestic flights if you book in advance.
- Train (Amtrak): Amtrak offers a popular train service between cities on the East Coast. This is a fun way to enjoy the scenery along the way, especially the route from New York to Washington D.C. or Boston. The Acela Express is fast and popular on these routes.
- Buses: Bus services such as Greyhound, Megabus, and BoltBus are budget-friendly options for travelers. These companies offer trips between major cities at reasonable prices, and you can easily purchase tickets online.
- Car Rentals: If you want more flexibility in traveling and exploring less-known lands, renting a car is a great option. Companies such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Avis offer car rental services at airports and city centers.
- Taxi and Public Transportation (Subway, Bus): In major cities, you can use taxis or public transportation such as subways and buses. New York, Washington D.C., and Boston all have modern and easy-to-use subway systems. In particular, New York City has a subway system that operates 24/7, very convenient for travelers.
- Boat Trips: If you’re visiting New York, a boat trip on the Hudson River or from Manhattan to Staten Island will give you a different perspective of the city. Some boat tours even include a view of the Statue of Liberty.
Top East Coast Attractions
This stunning coastal region is home to some of the nation’s most expensive attractions, including the alligator-filled canals of the Florida Everglades, the winding trails and lakes of Acadia National Park, and thousands of brightly lit shops in New York City. Check out some of our top picks below!
Niagara Falls – New York
Niagara Falls Day Tour from New York
Niagara Falls is a group of three waterfalls that span the border between Canada and the United States. If you love natural beauty and breathtaking scenery, this is one of the must-see attractions on the East Coast of the United States. Not only can you admire the majestic falls, but you can also hike, take the Maid of the Mist boat tour to see the falls, and dine amidst the exciting natural scenery.
Statue of Liberty Statue of Liberty – New York
New York City Helicopter Tour from Downtown Manhattan
Visiting Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty is an inspiring and impressive experience. As dual symbols of freedom and hope, these wonderful monuments are testament to the story of immigration and the human spirit of American ideals. You may have seen this iconic image many times on screen, or through movies, but the feeling will not be the same when you see it directly, up close. You can take a boat or helicopter tour around the island for a better view.
Acadia National Park – Maine
Located in New England, along the mid-coast of Maine, Acadia National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, and is also home to Cadillac Mountain, the tallest mountain on the East Coast of the United States.
Enjoy the picturesque natural scenery and engage in outdoor activities. Whether you are exploring the granite mountains and rugged coastline for the first time or are a seasoned veteran, we are sure to make you fall in love with the majestic beauty of Acadia National Park.
Lincoln Memorial – Washington, D.C.
The Lincoln Memorial is a national memorial, built in 1922 in memory of President Abraham Lincoln, and has been a popular East Coast tourist attraction for decades.
The best way to reach Lincoln Memorial is from the east side of the National Mall, right next to the Washington Monument and World War II Memorial. You will pass by the Reflecting Pool, a large space that reflects meaningful architectural works to honor America’s greatest leaders.
Mount Vernon – Virginia
Virginia is a place that marks the history of the formation and transformation of America, and one of the attractive historical legacies here is Mount Vernon, the former residence of President George Washington.
This building not only has a beautiful landscape, lush gardens and a view of the Potomac River, but it is also a place for those who love American history and want to learn more about the life and career of the first president.
Shenandoah Caverns – Virginia
While in Virginia, you should visit the underground wonder Shenandoah Caverns, a unique cave system formed millions of years ago by underground rivers and the movements of the earth.
Since 1922, Shenandoah Caverns has been a top tourist attraction in Virginia’s beautiful Shenandoah Valley. The Shenandoah Cave System even has an elevator to make it easier for visitors to explore.
Hanging Rock State Park – North Carolina
Experience Statue of Liberty with Various Tour Options
The hanging rock in Hanging Rock State Park is the next attraction on the East Coast of the United States. At first glance, you will easily feel that it seems like it is just a large rock stuck on the mountain, looking extremely precarious and dangerous. But standing on the rock, you can admire the entire wild natural landscape of this park.
Visiting Hanging Rock State Park, you will feel like you are lost in a fairyland with beautiful scenery and recreational activities such as: Rock climbing, horseback riding and boating, etc.
Biltmore Estate – North Carolina
You can easily “enjoy every moment of life” at Biltmore, where all the charms of a European setting await you. Admire the timeless elegance of Biltmore House, the brilliant gardens amidst the stunning landscape of the Blue Ridge Mountains; then immerse yourself in the Leonardo da Vinci exhibition. And there is also Antler Hill Village with Biltmore Winery, where you can eat, shop, and participate in countless outdoor activities.
Savannah Historic District – Georgia
For those who fell in love with the classic novel Gone with the Wind will surely fall in love with the image of plantations and mansions hidden under the oak trees in the state of Georgia. And when you set foot in the city of Savannah, you will feel that every street, every beautiful park here can tell stories of ups and downs in history.
In particular, when visiting Savannah Historic District, the heart of the city, you can stroll through 22 park squares, explore museums, monuments, restored 18th-century houses, shops and more than 100 restaurants.
Everglades National Park – Florida
No East Coast tour is complete without a visit to Everglades National Park, a swamp just outside Miami where you can spot alligators. Visiting the Everglades is like stepping into a mangrove paradise, immersing yourself in the slow, languid pace of life that characterizes the swamp, but it is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the world, attracting millions of people to explore each year.
Suggested East Coast 8 Days 7 Night itnerary
Day 1: Start Your Journey in New York City – USA
Start your East Coast tour in New York City, the city that never sleeps. After arriving at the airport, you can take a taxi or use the subway to travel to downtown Manhattan. The first day can start with prominent attractions such as Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. In the evening, you can attend a Broadway show or simply stroll around the Brooklyn Bridge area to admire the beauty of the city at night.
Day 2: Check-in Famous Places in New York
The second day is for exploring more of New York’s features. You can visit the Statue of Liberty, take a boat to Ellis Island to learn about the history of American immigration. Then, you can visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art (MET) or stroll around Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange Building. In the afternoon, spend time visiting the High Line – the sky park in Manhattan, and end the day at Rockefeller Center to see the city from above.
Day 3: New York – Philadelphia
Philadelphia Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
The next trip takes you to Philadelphia, about 2 hours away from New York by train. Here, you can explore important historical sites such as Independence Hall, where the US Constitution was signed, and the famous Liberty Bell. In the afternoon, you can visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, home to the famous “Rocky” statue, or stroll along South Street with its unique shops and restaurants.
Day 4: Philadelphia – Washington D.C.
Leaving Philadelphia, you continue your journey to Washington D.C., the capital of the United States. After arriving, you can start visiting iconic architectural works such as the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Smithsonian National Museum of History. In the afternoon, explore other special places such as the Jefferson Memorial and stroll around the National Mall. Don’t forget to spend time visiting famous free museums.
Washington DC and Philadelphia Day Tour from New York
Day 5: Explore Around Washington D.C.
Spend the day exploring Washington D.C. You can visit the Natural History Museum, the Air and Space Museum, or the Museum of American Art. Don’t miss Arlington National Park and the famous military cemetery where President Kennedy’s grave is located. If time permits, you can visit Capitol Hill and the US Capitol Building.
Day 6: Washington D.C. – Boston
On the sixth day, you will travel to Boston, a city rich in history and culture. In Boston, you can visit the Freedom Trail, a 4 km long path leading through the city’s historical sites. The highlight of this journey is the Old North Church, where an important event took place during the American Revolutionary War. In the afternoon, stop at Boston Common and stroll around the old Beacon Hill neighborhood.
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Day 7: Boston – New York
Spend your last day exploring Boston and enjoying the relaxing activities in this city. You can visit the Boston Museum of Fine Arts and the New England Aquarium. Then, return to New York in the afternoon to continue enjoying the rest of the city. Visit SoHo or Chinatown, or stroll in Greenwich Village to feel the New York nightlife.
Day 8: Explore New York and Go to the Airport
On the last day, if you haven’t had time to explore all the highlights of New York, take the opportunity to visit areas you haven’t had a chance to explore. Visit Central Park early in the morning, or shop on Fifth Avenue. Then, pack your bags and head to the airport to end your impressive journey to explore the East Coast of the United States.
Best of NYC – Full Manhattan Boat Tour (Circle Line)
What to Eat When Traveling to the East Coast of the United States on Your Own?
The East Coast of the United States is known for its bustling cities, impressive coastlines, and of course, lots of delicious food, whether for breakfast or dinner. For example, when you’re in New York City, try a charcoal sandwich with Pastrami beef, a staple dish of Jewish Americans. In addition, Connecticut and Maine are famous for their delicious Lobster Roll hotdogs.
Whether you’re a fan of Maryland’s grilled seafood or the indulgent Boston pastries, the foodies will be thrilled by the East Coast’s signature dishes.
How Much Does It Cost to Travel the East Coast of the United States?
| Category | Estimated Cost (VND) |
|---|---|
| Round trip airfare (VN <-> US) | 22,000,000 - 40,000,000 VND |
| Hotel cost (7 nights) | 13,300,000 VND |
| Travel between cities (train/bus) | 5,000,000 VND |
| Food costs (7 days) | 4,800,000 VND |
| Sightseeing costs (seeing shows) | 3,000,000 VND |
| Tickets to attractions (museums, churches, tourist attractions, etc.) | 2,000,000 VND |
| Getting around the city (taxi, subway) | 7,000,000 VND |
| Shopping and personal spending | 3,000,000 VND |
| Total estimated cost: 60,100,000 - 78,100,000 VND |
(*) Note: The above costs are estimates and may vary depending on the time of booking, the type of hotel you choose, and your personal spending level. Airfares may fluctuate depending on the season, and tour costs may also vary according to the tourist season or special events taking place in the cities.
It is difficult to end the debate about whether to travel to the East Coast or the West Coast of the US, or which side has more beautiful scenery, but you remembers that the East Coast embraces more historical stories and the development of the country. In fact, if you are looking for a less bustling and bustling experience, the East Coast of the US will be a great choice.
It is important to prepare a 4G SIM card before departure to constantly update and share the wonderful landscapes, historical and cultural attractions, exciting drives, mountain views, and delicious food of the East Coast with the world!
Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to New York you can refer to
- Klook Pass New York City
- New York Helicopter Tour
- New York CityPASS
- Aladdin Broadway Show Ticket in New York
- Summit One Vanderbilt Ticket
- New York Landmarks Cruise by Circle Line
- Klook Special: New York Attractions Combo Ticket
- LEGOLAND® New York Ticket
- The Lion King Broadway Show Ticket in New York
- 60 Minute Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Cruise in New York
- New York City Sightseeing Bus Pass
- Empire State Building Ticket in New York
- New York Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
- The Edge Observation Deck Ticket in New York
- Top of the Rock Ticket in New York
- The Museum of Modern Art Ticket in New York
- One World Observatory Ticket in New York
- The National 9/11 Memorial Museum Ticket in New York
- Go City – New York Explorer Pass
- American Museum of Natural History Ticket in New York
- Spyscape Spy Museum Ticket in New York
Check out more US guide here.
