Road Trip Destinations East Coast: Here Are the Best

Buckle up for the best road trip destinations on the East Coast! Filled with shorelines, seafood, and historical stops, the Atlantic Seaboard is a caravanning course the whole family can agree on. With 14 states on the east side, starting your road trip itinerary can be a daunting task. Our East Coast road trip guide is here to make your driving dreams come true! Don’t forget to make time for the can’t-miss landmarks— there are fun and photo ops.

Key Largo, Florida

Can’t Miss Landmarks: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Key Largo Conch House, Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center

Take “The Highway That Goes to the Sea” for 125 miles from Miami and arrives in Key Largo. As the gateway to the Florida Keys, Key Largo is home to the world’s largest artificial reef—Spiegal Grove. The island’s clear waters are ideal for diving, taking a glass-bottom boat ride, or swimming with the dolphins. This, by far is one of our favorite road trip destinations on the East Coast.

Road Trip Destinations on the East Coast, key largo

Outer Banks, North Carolina

Can’t Miss Landmarks: Wright Brothers National Memorial, Jennette’s Pier, Bodie Island Lighthouse

Made up of 4 islands, the Outer Banks attract both history buffs and beach lovers. In fact, the Wright Brothers’ first flight took place here over a century ago. Take a tour by car or kayak to see the historical sites, wildlife, forests, and lighthouses.

Road Trip Destinations on the East Coast, outer banks

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

Can’t Miss Landmarks: SkyWheel Ferris Wheel, Ripley’s Believe it or Not! Odditorium, Thunderbolt Park

Because you’ve been cooped up in the car, fly over the ocean in a parasail or stretch your legs at the 1.2-mile boardwalk. And with 60 miles of beaches, sand fans will love this water wonderland. When you’re ready to take a break from the beach, check out the new Thunderbolt Park in the Market Common District. It has lakes, trails, outdoor classrooms and even an Aerospace Park! Making this one of the best road trip destinations on the East Coast.

Road Trip Destinations on the East Coast, myrtle beach

Savannah, Georgia

Can’t Miss Landmarks: River Street, Savannah History Museum, Tybee Island

We love Savannah as a road trip destination on the East Coast. Whether journeying from North Georgia or New Jersey, all road trippers will remember their stop in Savannah. In this charismatic southern town you’ll find the infamous Forest Gump bench, tree-lined streets, and comfort food galore. Shopping fanatics will love River Street, Savannah’s outdoor, stone-paved market. Take a drive through the Victorian district where you’ll “ooh” and “aah” at historic homes with modern charm.

Road Trip Destinations on the East Coast, savannah

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Can’t Miss Landmarks: Sandwich Glass Museum, Sandy Neck Lighthouse, Cape Cod National Seashore

Why is Cape Cod one of the best road trip destinations on the East Coast? Loaded with lighthouses and lobster, this coastal community is a must for every New England road trip. There are 14 historical lighthouses throughout Cape Cod, all begging to be photographed. And speaking of picturesque, the many main streets that make up the area are watercolor wonders, filled with sea-themed shops and cozy restaurants. And don’t leave the cape without seeing it! Our favorite beaches are the Nantucket Sound and the Atlantic.

Road Trip Destinations on the East Coast, cape cod

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No matter what drew you to consider driving cross-country to find the best road trip destinations on the East Coast, there’s always a chance you’ll need some self-storage to keep your belongings safe while you’re gone. When it comes to that, SecurCare is here to help, every step of the way. Happy trails, Roadtrippers!

This post was originally published on 11/29/2018
It was updated on 11/10/2020