Better days are coming. They are called Saturday and Sunday!
Celebrated all over the world, weekends seduce us with their promise of relaxation, romance, and escape from the daily routine. Trying to plan a Weekend Getaways on the East Coast? Luckily, it doesn’t take much!
No more Netflix and chill. It’s time to put on your bucket list these 6 great Weekend Getaways on the East Coast, ranging from a relaxed beachy vibe to an adventure-packed vacation.
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Best East Coast Weekend Getaways
Here you have the top 6 East Coast Weekend Getaways to escape to:
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Cape Cod is one of the most popular East Coast tourist destinations in the summer for its beautiful beaches, pristine golf courses, and world-class seafood. Besides, it’s a great destination for a day trip from Boston.
The Cape Cod National Seashore stretches over 40 miles and is known for a wide spectrum of attractions, be it sandy beaches, kayaking, snorkeling, sailing, or even hiking.
You can also enjoy your evening being entertained by Cape Symphony, Cape Cod’s homegrown Orchestra, at the Barnstable Performing Arts Center. Perfect for couples, Cape Cod is one of the East Coast romantic weekend getaways.
If you are a foodie, you must visit Lobster Pot and treat yourself to their delicious Chowder or Lobster Bisque.
Getting to Cape Cod is as easy as pie no matter where you are traveling from. If driving is your preferred option, you’ll be driving over either the Bourne Bridge or the Sagamore bridge. Other options include a flight to T.F. Green Airport in Rhode Island or Boston Logan airport, a ferry from Boston, or a CapeFlyer train ride from Boston at affordable prices.
While you can pick from a large number of Hotels, Motels, Inns, Bed and Breakfasts, or even Luxury resorts, Anchor In and Chatham Inn have consistently received high reviews over the years.
Savannah, Georgia
Art? Gourmet Food? Architectural Gems? Historic Landmarks? Savannah has it all! And if you’re looking for cheap east coast weekend getaways, Savannah is for you!
Savannah has earned the reputation of being one of the world’s friendliest cities over the years, which is what makes it a perfect weekend getaway.
You can spend your morning exploring the historical gems of Savannah like the Bonaventure Cemetery, the Georgia State Railroad Museum, and the First African Baptist Church.
Then for lunch, you can treat yourself to one of the countless restaurants offering mouth-watering southern food like Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room or Common Thread.
Burn some calories by strolling through Forsyth Park.
Some must-see landmarks are its 163-year-old iconic fountain, the Fragrant Garden, and Collins Quarter for an afternoon pick-me-up cup of Joe, one of my favorite places to go when I’m looking to make the most of one day in Savannah GA.
End your day with some live comedy, music, and dance performances at Savannah Theatre or Lucas theater.
One of the most unique parts of your getaway could be staying at one of Savannah’s Haunted Hotels like the Kehoe House or The Marshall House.
If you need more details about visiting Savannah, make sure to check out this post: 10 Cool & Unusual Things to do in Savannah, Georgia .
Ft. Lauderdale, Florida
Don’t want to visit the crowded beaches of Miami? Don’t fret! Ft. Lauderdale is just 30 miles up north.
While beaches like Deerfield, Pompano, and Hillsboro are a must, Fort Lauderdale has a lot more to offer.
The best way to get around and experience the city is the Water Taxi service. The Hop In and Hop-Off feature at a minimal price lets you take things at your own pace.
Las Olas Boulevard in the downtown area is home to couture boutiques and art attractions. You can relax at an outdoor cafe or even hop on a quadricycle with your pals to go on a foodie tour.
This can also be your chance to ride an airboat if you haven’t before. At Sawgrass Recreation Park, you’re likely to see a glimpse of Florida’s unique subtropical ecosystem with wildlife like alligators, fish, and turtles.
Beachfront Hotels like Great Escape or the High Noon Resort will let you make the most of your weekend getaway with the pristine blue views.
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Acadia National Park, Maine
This one is for all you adventurous folks out there. With almost 3.5 million visitors a year, this National Park is a no-brainer!
There are so many things to do in Acadia National Park. From exploring the picturesque trails and biking along the enchanting carriage roads, to kayaking in tranquil lakes or discovering the charming town of Bar Harbor.
One of the prime features of Acadia is the Cadillac Mountain, the highest point in the park. For half of the year, this point receives the first ray of sunlight in the country, making it a breathtaking view.
The 27 mile Park Loop Road makes this park well suited for a weekend getaway. You can either drive down the Park Loop or even ride your bike. Either way, you won’t miss any of the must-see landmarks.
The park is home to vast fauna, including over 330 species of birds. If you’re patient. You’re also likely to see Foxes, Minks, and Bobcats. So fun for kids! Acadia National Park is one of the best East Coast weekend getaways for families and one of the Best National Parks in the US.
The park offers four different Campgrounds depending on what attractions you want to be closest to. If you’re not a fan of camping, you can simply rent accommodation in one of the nearby towns. There are so many unique places to stay on the east coast.
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Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Also known as Philly, Philadelphia is home to the Liberty Bell, the Rocky steps, and of course, cheesesteaks! One of the best weekend trips on the East Coast!
On your trip to Philly, you must visit Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is where the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776 and the Constitution of the United States in 1787. Other historic sites on your itinerary should include City Hall and the Liberty Bell.
Fun Fact: Philly has more outdoor murals than any other city in the United States. The city’s murals are easy on the eye and make for great pictures.
Last but not least, don’t forget to visit Reading Terminal Market! It is a one-of-a-kind food market with all the cuisines you can think of and then some more. You’ll also have a wide selection of produce, alcohol, and artisan meats and cheeses.
Looking for a place to live in Philly? I suggest browsing through Airbnb to find a cheap deal in the middle of the city.
Washington D.C.
The best part about this city is that the biggest tourist attractions are FREE! Besides, it’s the perfect escape from the busy New York City.
Built to honor President Abraham Lincoln, the Lincoln Memorial is a neoclassical Greek temple and site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I have a dream” speech.
Right across is the Washington Monument, a 555ft obelisk built to commemorate President George Washington. The World War II Memorial, 56 pilings in a circle, was built to honor the Americans who died during the war.
Of the many museums, you can visit, make sure to add the National Archives Museum and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
There are so many things to do in Washington DC that I’m sure you won’t get bored for a second!
While there are countless hotels and other accommodations in Washington DC, I recommend staying in the neighborhood of Foggy Bottom if it is your first time visiting the city and H Street Corridor if you want to experience the hip side of Washington DC.
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Looking for more ideas for the best weekend gateways on the East Coast?
You can travel to New York, Key West, the Blue Ridge Mountains, Saratoga Springs, New Hampshire, Myrtle Beach or Hudson Valley.
Check out these posts!
- 10 Best Things to Do in Saratoga Springs, New York
- 5 Best Places to Find Wildflowers in Virginia
- The Ultimate Marathon Florida Guide
- Top 10 Things to do in Rochester NY
- 8 Best Day Trips from Boston
Final Words about the best East Coast weekend gateways
When it comes to East Coast weekend gateways, it might be difficult to choose the right place among many hidden gems to discover. But the truth is that regardless of which destination you choose, you’re sure to have a great time!
For more adventures in the US, don’t forget to check the most beautiful places out there!
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