The Epic East Coast Roadtrip - A 2,000 Mile Journey Up The Eastern Seaboard

Embarking on a road trip is an exhilarating experience, and the Eastern Seaboard of the United States offers some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. From Florida's sunny beaches to Maine's rocky coastline, this journey is a spectacular way to witness a wide diversity of landscapes and cultures along the way. The road trip covers over 2000 miles, takes you through 13 states and will take around two to three weeks to complete.

You'll pass through bustling cities, charming towns, and breathtaking natural wonders along the way, making memories that will last a lifetime. In this post, I will take you through a detailed itinerary of this epic road trip, including the must-see attractions and hidden gems to discover along the way.

Day 1: Start in Key West, Florida - Visit Dry Tortugas National Park

Key West is an island city located at the southernmost point of Florida, known for its tropical climate, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the historic district, which features charming architecture and numerous shops and restaurants, or enjoy outdoor activities such as snorkeling and diving in the crystal-clear waters of the Gulf of Mexico.

Located approximately 70 miles west of Key West, Dry Tortugas is a remote national park that features crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and a historic fort. Visitors can take a ferry or seaplane to the island and explore Fort Jefferson, which was built in the 19th century to protect the shipping lanes between the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean. Outdoor activities include snorkeling, birdwatching, and stargazing.

Make sure to stop and visit the Florida Birding Trail at Dry Tortugas National Park, where you will encounter a range of both common and uncommon bird species. You may see Roseate and Bridled Terns, Masked and Brown Boobies, Red-Necked Phalaropes, Red-Footed Boobies, Double-Crested Cormorants, Brown Pelicans, Frigate Birds, the Caribbean Short-Eared Owl, White-Tailed Tropicbird, Shiny Cowbird, and Golden Warblers. During the spring and fall migrations, you might spot Caribbean short-eared owls, shiny cowbirds, warblers, thrushes, grosbeaks, and cuckoos on Garden Key, where the fort is located. In the summer, keep an eye out for the White-Tailed Tropicbird, and in the fall, many other species may make an appearance. Regardless of the season, there are always special birds to be observed at the Dry Tortugas.

Make sure to visit the Dry Tortugas National Park website (authorized concessioner) for more information on bird species and for a FREE Florida Birding Checklist! (Data courtesy of YFDTNP)

Day 2: Follow Route 1 North past Key Largo - Visit Biscayne National Park

Biscayne is a national park located near Miami, Florida, known for its stunning coral reefs and abundant marine life. Visitors can explore the park by boat or kayak and discover the diverse ecosystem, which includes mangrove forests, shallow bays, and vibrant coral reefs. Outdoor activities include snorkeling, diving, fishing, and birdwatching.

Day 3: Head west to the Everglades National Park - Spend the day hiking, biking, or kayaking through the park, taking in the unique ecosystem and wildlife.

Located in Florida, Everglades National Park is a unique ecosystem that features vast swamps, mangrove forests, and a wide array of wildlife. Visitors can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and biking through the park, and learn about the history and cultural significance of the area, which has been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years.

Day 4: Head north to St. Augustine, Florida - Explore the historic downtown

Established in 1565, St. Augustine is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the United States. It is truly one of my favorite cities in the entire country. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, which features Spanish Colonial architecture, museums, and the impressive Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Outdoor activities include strolling along the beach or taking a boat tour of the Matanzas River. You may also be surprised to know that St Augustine is a popular Christmas destination!

Day 5: Continue north to Savannah, Georgia - Take a walking tour and enjoy a meal of classic Southern cuisine.

Founded in 1733, Savannah is known for its rich history and charming downtown area. Visitors can take a walking tour of the historic district, which includes landmarks such as Forsyth Park, The Telfair Museums and the Mercer Williams House. Outdoor activities include kayaking along the Savannah River or visiting the nearby Tybee Island.

Day 6: Drive to Charleston, South Carolina - Explore the city's rich history, strolling through the charming downtown area.

Charleston is a coastal city in South Carolina known for its charming architecture, historic landmarks, and Southern hospitality. Visitors can tour the historic district, which includes Fort Sumter National Monument and the Charleston City Market. Outdoor activities include strolling through the gardens of Middleton Place or enjoying the beaches at nearby Isle of Palms.

Day 7: Congaree

Congaree is a national park located in South Carolina, known for its stunning old-growth forests and diverse wildlife. Visitors can explore the park by hiking on boardwalk trails or kayaking on the Congaree River, and discover the unique ecosystem that includes towering hardwood trees, swamps, and meandering creeks. The park is also home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, bobcats, and bald eagles. Outdoor activities include camping, fishing, and stargazing.

Day 8: Head north to Wilmington, North Carolina, and spend the day exploring the beautiful beaches and outdoor areas of the area.

Wilmington is a coastal city in North Carolina known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views at Wrightsville Beach or explore the historic downtown area, which features museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Day 9: Continue north to Virginia Beach, Virginia. Spend the day enjoying the beach and taking in the historic sites, including the First Landing State Park and the Cape Henry Lighthouse.

Virginia Beach is a resort city in Virginia known for its beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the boardwalk, which features numerous shops and restaurants, or visit the nearby First Landing State Park or Cape Henry Lighthouse for stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 10: Drive to Washington, D.C. and spend the day exploring the nation's capital. Visit the Smithsonian Museums, the Lincoln Memorial, and the National Mall.

The nation's capital, Washington, D.C. is home to numerous historic sites, monuments, and museums. Visitors can explore the Smithsonian Museums, visit the Lincoln Memorial, and take a stroll through the National Mall. Outdoor activities include hiking or biking along the C&O Canal or kayaking on the Potomac River.

Day 11: Continue north to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and visit the historic Civil War battlefield and museum.

Gettysburg is a historic town in Pennsylvania, known for the Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point in the American Civil War. Visitors can tour the battlefield and the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum, or explore the charming downtown area, which features shops and restaurants.

Day 12: Drive to the Amish Country in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and experience the traditional lifestyle of the Amish people.

Lancaster is a town in Pennsylvania known for its large Amish population and traditional way of life. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Amish Country, learn about the history and culture of the community, and enjoy traditional Amish foods and crafts.

Day 13: Head north to the beautiful city of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and explore the historic sites such as Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell.

Philadelphia is a historic city in Pennsylvania, known for its role in the American Revolution and the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Visitors can explore the Independence National Historical Park, which includes Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, or enjoy the city's many museums, restaurants, and shops.

Day 14: Drive to the charming coastal town of Mystic, Connecticut. Visit the Mystic Seaport Museum and enjoy the town's quaint shops and restaurants.

Mystic is a charming coastal town in Connecticut, known for its maritime history and museums. Visitors can explore the Mystic Seaport Museum, which features historic ships, exhibits, and demonstrations, or enjoy the town's many shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Day 15: Head to Newport, Rhode Island, and visit the historic mansions of the Gilded Age, such as The Breakers and Marble House.

Newport is a coastal town in Rhode Island, known for its Gilded Age mansions and stunning coastline. Visitors can tour the historic homes of wealthy industrialists such as The Breakers and Marble House, or enjoy the beaches and outdoor activities such as sailing and fishing.

Newport is a coastal city famous for its historic mansions and their beautiful gardens, which were built during the Gilded Age of the late 19th century. The mansions offer a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyles of the wealthy elite during this time. In addition to the mansions, Newport is known for its scenic coastal views, with rocky cliffs, beaches, and picturesque lighthouses along the shore.

Day 16: Drive to Boston, Massachusetts, and spend the day exploring the city's rich history, including the Freedom Trail and the USS Constitution Museum.

As one of the oldest cities in the United States, Boston is rich in history and offers a wealth of outdoor activities. The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path that winds through the city, takes visitors to 16 historically significant sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere's House, and the Old North Church. Boston is also home to many parks and green spaces, such as the Boston Common and the Public Garden, which offer a respite from the city's bustling streets.

Day 17: Continue north to Portland, Maine, and spend the day enjoying the scenic beauty of the area, including the stunning lighthouses along the coast.

Portland is a charming coastal town known for its scenic beauty and vibrant arts scene. Visitors can take a stroll along the Old Port, a historic district filled with quaint shops and restaurants, or explore the Eastern Promenade, a 68-acre park with stunning views of Casco Bay. Portland is also home to several lighthouses, including the Portland Head Light, which dates back to 1791 and is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country.

Day 18: Finish the trip by driving to Acadia National Park, Maine, and spend the day hiking and taking in the breathtaking views of the park's rugged coastline and mountains.

Acadia National Park is located in Maine and is one of the oldest national parks in the country. The park offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and mountains, and visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, camping, and wildlife watching. The park has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back over 5,000 years, and the Wabanaki people have lived in the area for thousands of years. Acadia National Park was first established as Sieur de Monts National Monument in 1916, and was later renamed and expanded. Today, the park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike, offering a unique combination of natural beauty and cultural significance.

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The Epic Eastern Seaboard road trip from Florida to Acadia National Park in Maine is an adventure that offers a diverse range of experiences. From the sunny beaches of Florida to the historical cities of the Northeast, and the rugged beauty of Maine's coastline and Acadia National Park, this journey provides a chance to explore the many facets of the eastern United States. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends and family, there's something for everyone on this epic road trip. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the trip of a lifetime along the Eastern Seaboard.

Note: Some of these locations may have limited accessibility due to current events or maintenance. It is recommended to check with the National Park Service or local authorities before planning a visit.