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Home / TRAVEL GUIDES / The USA's East Coast has 20 top attractions.

The USA's East Coast has 20 top attractions.

2023-02-24  Uziel Udayle

The East Coast of America is amazing. Its untamed natural beauty and vibrant cities, which stretch from Maine in the north to Florida in the south, beg to be explored. The top destinations on the East Coast provide a variety of enjoyable activities, whether you enjoy skiing, kayaking, dining, shopping, or visiting museums.

Some of the nation's most outstanding sights are located in this beautiful seaside region. We're talking about the canals that are home to alligators in the Florida Everglades, the lakes and meandering trails in Acadia National Park in Maine, and the neon lights and countless shops in New York City. It is no mystery why so many people visit America's Atlantic coast.

You won't ever be bored on America's East Coast, we guarantee it, whether you're taking in a Broadway show, touring the White House, hiking one of the Smoky Mountains, or simply relaxing on the gentle sands of Florida.

See our list of the top U.S. East Coast tourist destinations for more suggestions on where to go sightseeing.

1. The city of New York

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Gourmet eateries, well-known tourist destinations, amazing street art, and fashionable clothing can all be found in New York, among other things. You can always find what you're looking for in the Big Apple. The only issue you'll have is that you won't have enough time to complete everything.

You'll want to shop, catch a show, go sight-seeing (hello, Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty), and treat your taste buds to some of the best cuisine on earth (we're drooling over Gramercy Tavern and Daniel). After finishing all of that, you must schedule time to visit the museums. The American Museum of Natural History, MOMA, Guggenheim, and The Metropolitan Museum of Art all take the top spots on the list.

Low on funds? There are many things to do that are affordable. Some of our favourite free activities include people-watching from a park bench in Union Square, strolling through Central Park, strolling the High Line, window shopping in SOHO, and watching the sunset from a rooftop patio.

Plan your itinerary before leaving home, is our suggestion. By doing this, you'll save time by not having to stand on a corner and contemplate your next move. Additionally, you can discover significantly cheaper pricing if you purchase your tickets online, such as for Broadway productions or popular events. It's hardly surprise that New York has been named one of the greatest locations to visit on the East Coast given the abundance of fun things to do there.

2. Massachusetts's Boston

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Boston is an easy city to fall in love with. Visitors are enticed to remain a long by the city's cobblestone streets, antique structures, and stunning waterfront. Charming Quincy Market, located in the centre of the town, welcomes visitors to indulge in some retail therapy while sampling delectable foods.

The Freedom Trail is one of the best things to do in this revolutionary city. This well-known circuit round the city's core and passes 16 significant historic buildings, all of which breathe new life into the past (such as the Old State House, Paul Revere House, Boston Common, and the scene of the Boston Massacre).

It's at the Faneuil Hall Marketplace. You may spend hours in this enjoyable location with its buskers, street entertainers, food stalls, and unique businesses. Don't skip Beacon Hill, the city's most fascinating area, when you're out and about.

Whether you like baseball or not, it's worth going to Fenway Park just to get a good look at the Green Monster. There is an antique hand-operated scoreboard on this 37-foot green wall.

3. Miami, Florida, 

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Miami, one of the most popular tourist attractions in the United States, is the place to be. Its streets are lined with stylish, upscale stores, Art Deco structures, and attractive individuals. Many factors draw visitors to this coastal Florida village.

The main draw is Miami Beach. Its fine, white sand entices bodies in bathing suits to spread out for a day of splashing around in the warm, blue ocean.

The boardwalk, which is located behind South Beach, offers entertainment on its own. Anything goes, from speedo-clad grandfathers on roller blades to stiletto-clad fashionistas carrying canines in their purses.

The popular Art Deco Heritage District in South Beach is the next stop. When you're tired of having sand between your toes, here is the ideal place to spend some time. You can discover a tonne of stores, eateries, and a lively nightlife there.

4. Maine's Acadia National Park

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Acadia National Park makes it simple to go lost—and not just physically. You will forget you ever worried because of the breathtaking splendour this natural paradise offers.

Acadia, the only national park in New England and the first in the US's eastern region, is home to vast woodlands and a striking shoreline. It makes sense that it has risen to the top 10 most popular national parks in the nation.

Visitors should prepare to spend a lot of time here because there are over 70 miles of roads (both automotive and carriage) and 158 miles of hiking trails to explore. Most people decide to camp overnight.

5. Washington, D.C.

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Washington, which is best recognised for serving as the capital of the country, is home to several famous monuments and memorials. The White House, the Capitol Building, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial are the top four tourist destinations in the city. If you haven't seen these, you haven't actually been to Washington.

There are a tonne of additional sights that are worth seeing, particularly for people looking for first-hand political history. Several of the city's most imposing monuments, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Women's Monument, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial, are located on the wide National Mall.

Nonetheless, one of the city's main attractions has less to do with the political atmosphere. Some of the top museums and galleries in the world are found there. Don't forget to visit the National Museum of Natural History, National Gallery of Art, and National Air and Space Museum.

6. Baltimore, Maryland, 

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Baltimore, also known as "Charm City," is reputed to be one of the friendliest cities in the country. Baltimore is a port city with an excellent blend of the historic (like Fort McHenry, which served as the model for the national anthem, The Star Spangled Banner), and trendy (such boutique hotels and unique stores).

The Walters Art Gallery, the National Aquarium, and the American Visionary Art Museum are some of the top attractions. The Inner Harbor, which was updated in the late 1970s, is where much of the action takes place. Today, the harbour is bustling with tourists visiting its exciting shops and fantastic restaurants. But, the most of the excitement is outside. At this centre, open-air concerts and street artists are frequent occurrences.

7. Shenandoah National Park in Virginia

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Nature is calling—get outside right away! If you lived close to Virginia's magnificent Shenandoah National Park, it would be simple to accomplish that. There is nothing to hate about this natural wonderland, which is filled with lovely wildflowers, enormous rolling hills, flowing waterfalls, and lush woodlands. If you remain quiet and pay great attention, you might even see a bobcat, black bear, or deer.

Visit one of the two visitor centres in Shenandoah National Park, Dickey Ridge or Harry F. Byrd, before beginning one of the park's lovely hiking routes. You'll need a map to help you navigate the park's enormous 200,000 acres.

Not a huge hiker? You can choose from 400 miles of routes with varied lengths and levels of difficulty, so don't worry. Beginners should choose Traces because it is less than two miles one way, while more experienced hikers should choose the challenging White Oak Canyon (over nine miles return).

8. Charleston, South Carolina, 

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Charleston emits a delightful old-world Southern charm that will keep you from wanting to leave. Think about spending the day with your sweetest, most attractive buddy, who also happens to be a fantastic cook. Exploring this Southern belle's lovely streets gives one that impression. It makes sense why it has been called one of the top tourist destinations on the East Coast of America.

Every resident you encounter has a broad smile on their face and an irresistibly alluring Southern drawl in their speech. They'll point you in the direction of the town's top sights, including the Waterfront Park along the water, Middleton Place Plantation, and Magnolia Plantation & Gardens.

Go on a carriage trip through the Old Town. Charleston transports each visitor back in time to its turbulent prime during the 18th century with more than 1,400 historic structures to admire.

9. Savannah, Georgia 

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Walking through the tree-lined, cobbled streets of Savannah is like stepping right out of a Gone with the Wind book. Oak trees covered with moss guide you to the city's top sights while providing a welcoming spot of shade in the many public squares and parks.

Chippewa Square is located on historic Bull Street, which also contains City Hall and the Forrest Gump movie.

Don't overlook Forsyth Park, a wonder of the mid-19th century with a huge cast-iron fountain. The Telfair Academy of Arts and Sciences and the National Museum of the Mighty Eight Air Force should also be on your "to-see" list.

Bonaventure Cemetery will persuade you otherwise if visiting cemeteries isn't at the top of your list of things to do. You won't even notice that some people think this location is haunted because of how lovely the stone monuments, obelisks, and lush flowers are.

10. Pennsylvania's Philadelphia

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Philadelphia (also known as Philly) is well known for its role in US history, similar to Washington, D.C. (in particular during colonial and revolutionary times). The Declaration of Independence was signed here (at Independence Hall). The Constitution was drafted here eleven years later.

Modern skyscrapers, vibrant art murals, old redbrick terrace buildings, and winding cobblestone streets can all be found together in today's city. The liberty bell, a revered emblem of liberty and independence, is housed in the Liberty Bell Pavilion. Mosaic-covered walls (and floors) can be found in Philadelphia's Magic Gardens, an amazing immersive mixed media experience.

Take a journey around Independence National Historical Park in a horse-drawn carriage, or visit the Reading Terminal Market to buy fresh food, Amish bread, clothing, and jewellery. There are many enjoyable activities in Philadelphia.

11. Charlotte, North Carolina, 

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When visiting the biggest city in North Carolina, Uptown is the place to be. The best places to eat and buy in Charlotte may be found in this contemporary part of the city. Also, several of the city's museums are located there.

The NASCAR Hall of Fame is a must-see for racing aficionados, and the spectacular Carolinas Aviation Museum is a must-visit for aviators. If you take the younger, more active generation to Carowinds in Paramount, a theme and water park with mechanical dinosaurs, they'll love you forever.

Locals congregate in Freedom Park to unwind. The park offers concerts and has a playground in addition to providing a tonne of sporting opportunities (such as volleyball, basketball, and tennis courts), walking routes, and baseball diamonds.

12. South Carolina's Myrtle Beach

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The jewel in South Carolina's crown is Myrtle Beach. Its neon lights, nonstop musical entertainment, enormous rotating Ferris wheel (also known as SkyWheel), and beachfront games appear to have been magically illuminated by a fairy. In essence, Myrtle Beach resembles Brighton Beach in England or Coney Island in New York on steroids.

The Grand Strand, a spectacular stretch of beach, offers travellers 60 miles of sun-drenched sand to unwind on. Beachgoers can take advantage of the abundance of kitsch, which includes mini putt courses, souvenir stores, and WonderWorks Myrtle Beach, when they get bored (which is unlikely given the abundance of people-watching on offer).

Both the Priates Cruise dinner performance and Ripley's Aquarium are worthwhile stops.

13. North Carolina's Outer Banks

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It is understandable why so many individuals choose the Outer Banks for their summer vacation location. This location is both energising and renewing, offering over 100 miles of quietly magnificent coastal scenery, charming villages, adorable rental cottages, and genuine restaurants.

The bridges that connect a line of slivered barrier islands to the mainland add to the idyllic and secluded atmosphere of their beaches. The Outer Banks, also referred to as OBX, are the ideal destination to relax and get away from the frantic city life.

See the area's lighthouses, go on a boat tour, climb the largest sand dune you'll ever see, and try your hand at fishing off Nags Head's fishing pier, which is one of the longest (and oldest) on the Outer Banks.

Bring the youngsters to Kitty Hawk on Bodie Island and register for a kayak excursion there. Because of how charming this small town is, you'll want to remain, which is simple to do with the excellent lodging options available. Explore the magnificent and wild Hatteras Island in the south while taking in the history of Roanoke Island.

14. Orlando, Florida, 

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The desire to visit Orlando is universal. This popular American holiday spot is home to the theme park behemoths Walt Disney World and Universal Studios, as well as SeaWorld Orlando, where guests may pet dolphins or ride a roller coaster with a manta ray theme.

Discovery Cove, another popular destination where tourists can get up up and personal with marine life, is located next to SeaWorld. The Orlando Science Center, home to the perennially well-liked interactive "Kids Village" exhibit for visitors under 48 inches tall, will appeal to individuals with an interest in biology. Or go to Gatorland and get your face to nose with an alligator.

Having trouble finding something to do? Go to Cape Canaveral, which is close by. There, you may see a space shuttle launch or meet an astronaut at the Kennedy Space Center.

15. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina and Tennessee

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Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a great place to go on a big adventure. This incredible treasure offers guests more than 500,000 acres to explore and will astound them with the splendour of the surrounding landscape. Once there, it is simple to understand why it is regarded as one of the top tourist destinations on the US East Coast.

A wonderful utopia is created by the park's craggy mountain peaks, mist-covered tops, tumbling waterfalls, lush woods, and blooming wildflowers. With so much to see and do, the park is great to explore at any time of year. The winter's snow-covered trees, the summer's lush green meadows, and the spring's vivid flowering azaleas are all magnificent. The activities you wish to pursue will determine the ideal time of year to visit the Smoky Mountains.

Don't miss Rainbow Falls, Cades Cove, or the unmatched views from the summit of Clingmans Dome. The third-highest mountain in the park, Mt. Leconte, is also worthwhile to climb.

16. Florida's Everglades National Park, 

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Were those eyes you saw peering out over the hazy Everglades National Park waters real? Probably.

Alligators, pythons, manatees, egrets, and the elusive panther are among the many creatures that call the 1.5 million-acre Everglades in southern Florida home. You can never leave the Everglades without seeing a strange animal.

The region is a biological wonder, home to a variety of diverse eco-systems and a wide range of flora and fauna. The largely marshy Everglades, which contains freshwater sloughs, pinelands, cypress trees, and mangroves, is essential to the sustainability of the region.

An airboat is the finest way to travel across the region's congested channels while you explore the Everglades. Another well-liked mode of transportation is kayaking through the mangrove canals; just be careful not to fall in! One of the best day trips from Miami is to the park.

17. Lake Placid, New York

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There are few things more peaceful than taking in the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York while sitting by a lake. You won't want to get up, especially if you have a steaming mug of tea. You can see that being outside is healthy for you.

The Winter Olympics were held in Lake Placid twice, in 1932 and 1980, making it one of the most well-known winter destinations. Gorgeous Mirror Lake freezes during the coldest bursts, transforming into a natural ice rink that is well-liked by tourists and perfectly reflects the colourful fall foliage.

Skiing, bobsledding, and even dogsledding are available for those who are looking for a winter experience. There are numerous activities available in Lake Placid for summer visitors, including hiking, waterskiing, swimming, canoeing, and kayaking.

18. Niagara Falls, New York,

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Niagara Falls, one of the most spectacular natural wonders in the world, ought to be on everyone's travel wish list. It is an amazing experience to stand next to the falls as the water thunders over the edge, dousing everything in sight in mist.

See more of Niagara Falls State Park while you're there than just the three waterfalls you came to see. You'll have plenty to do with 400 acres of area to explore. Go to the Observation Tower for the greatest view.

The Maid of the Mist boat tour is one of Niagara Falls' most well-liked attractions. Put on a blue plastic poncho and get ready for an up-close and personal tour of the roaring falls on both sides of the border, the American Falls and the magnificent Horseshoe Falls in Canada. There is nothing quite like it.

19. Massachusetts's Martha's Vineyard

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There are many things to enjoy about Martha's Vineyard, including its crystal water, sailing vessels, charming cottages, and bike-friendly roads. This tranquil island, five miles off Cape Cod's south shore, is where summertime vacationers from big cities go to decompress.

This charming location, which is family-friendly, is favoured by the extremely wealthy and famous people looking for a summer retreat. They enjoy playing on the gentle sand beaches, browsing adorable boutique shops, and enjoying delicious meals during the day. It is wonderful to see that there are no chain restaurants here.

If you're travelling with children, don't miss Oak Bluffs, a charming village with cottages from the 19th century and one of the state's oldest merry-go-rounds. See the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge and grab a bite to eat while you're in Edgartown.

20. Stowe, Vermont 

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Wait until you see Stowe in the fall if you thought the summer is beautiful with its emerald valleys and luscious mountains. You'll be taken aback by the vivid reds, oranges, and yellows that are used to paint the lovely Vermont landscape.

Yet winter is when this classic New England village really shines. At that point, it is inundated with skiers from adjacent states like Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, and New Jersey. People travel there to take advantage of the upmarket mountain resort of Mount Mansfield's hamlet, shops, restaurants, and, of course, its world-class slopes.

Stowe, an all-year-round community, provides outdoor enthusiasts with a wide range of things to do. There are a tonne of activities in Stowe, whether your interests are mountain biking, cross-country skiing, hiking, ziplining, shopping, or unwinding in the spa.


2023-02-24  Uziel Udayle