5 Must-See Places on the East Coast

The northeastern most point of the U.S. near Madawaska, Maine, stretches over 2,076 miles to the southeastern most point at Key West, Florida, providing nearly an endless list of options to choose from when it comes to a vacation. But to narrow your options, if you haven't visited them already, be sure to plan a trip around one of these must-see spots.

Bar Harbor, Maine

A nature lover's dream, Bar Harbor is home to the majority of Acadia National Park. This picturesque seaside town offers both the sea and soaring mountains, bringing opportunities for stunningly scenic hikes as well as paddling tours in kayaks or canoes along the Mount Desert shoreline.

There's abundant wildlife too, with whale, seal, and puffin watching excursions available for close encounters. Of course, in between exploring, you can look forward to dining on the state's specialty, lobster.

Boston, Massachusetts

History enthusiasts will especially appreciate Boston, although it's a favorite city among travelers of all types. Take a stroll along the 2.5-mile-long Freedom Trail by following the red stripe that traverses through Boston's most historic neighborhoods, featuring 16 important Revolutionary War sites between Boston Common and the Charlestown waterfront.

Don't miss the Old State Museum, which features memorabilia like a vial of tea salvaged from the original Tea Party crowd. There are museums of all types that impress, like the Institute of Contemporary Art and Museum of Science too. And baseball fans won't want to miss catching a game at Fenway Park, home to the Boston Red Sox since 1912.

New York City, New York

One of the world's most popular cities, everyone should visit New York at least once. Walk through Central Park, a great place for people watching and enjoying attractions like Belvedere Castle, Central Park Zoo, and talented buskers.

Visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, walk late at night among the bright lights of Times Square, take in Broadway shows and enjoy some of the best shopping and dining on the planet.

Washington, D.C.

Some of the world's best museums can be explored in the U.S. capital. The world's largest museum complex in the world, it includes 11 museums and galleries on the National Mall plus six others and the National Zoo in the greater National Capital Area - and nearly all are free.

Start at the Smithsonian Visitor Center to view highlights of collections from each that will help you to decide which to visit. Some of the highlights not-to-be-missed include Dorthy's slippers from “The Wizard of Oz," the original Star-Spangled Banner, the Hope Diamond, and the Wright brothers’ 1903 Wright Flyer. 

Just across the Potomac River is Arlington, which also offers many historical treasures, along with unique shops, fantastic restaurants, and buzzing nightlife. Arlington real estate is a popular choice for many working in D.C., a place to consider for those who want to be close to the capital while enjoying the charm and walkability of a smaller town.

St. Augustine, Florida

St. Augustine is North America's oldest continuously occupied European settlement, offering lots for history buffs, founded by Spanish colonists in 1565 with many original buildings still standing. Yet just minutes away, you can enjoy those famously beautiful white sandy beaches and brilliant blue waters Florida is known for.

There are so many great places to explore on the East Coast. You really can't go wrong with any of these amazing destinations. As always thank you for reading and happy travels!

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