East Coast Weekend Getaways: 9 Best Trips Guide

There is a certain magic to the East Coast of the United States, a magnetic pull that promises the perfect escape just a few hours away. When you are looking for the best East Coast weekend getaways, you are often searching for diversity, history, and natural beauty. From the granite cliffs of Maine to the Spanish moss-draped squares of Savannah, the region offers a mosaic of adventures. This guide is built on real travel experience to help you find your ideal short trip. Whether you are planning a full East Coast road trip or just a quick escape, we have curated the best options for romance, family fun, and culinary deep-dives.

Quick Reference Guide to East Coast Weekend Destinations

Romantic East Coast Weekend Getaways For Couples

Planning romantic East Coast weekend getaways requires finding destinations that blend atmosphere, history, and intimacy. Whether you are celebrating an anniversary or just need time to reconnect, the right location sets the tone. The region is rich in these destinations, offering everything from literary retreats to historic seaside estates. When choosing among the many things to do East Coast travelers love, prioritize places that offer intimate dining experiences and scenic beauty.

1. Newport, Rhode Island – Gilded Age Grandeur by the Sea

Newport feels like stepping into an Edith Wharton novel, where the Atlantic crashes against rocks on one side while the opulent “summer cottages” stand as monuments to a bygone era. It is a highlight of any New England road trip and one of the premier getaways for history lovers.

Why it is perfect for couples:

• Historic Allure: The Gilded Age mansions offer a grand glimpse into history, creating a storybook backdrop.

• Scenic Beauty: The 3.5-mile Cliff Walk provides breathtaking shared moments with ocean views.

• Charming Atmosphere: Cobblestone streets and bustling wharves create perfect romantic settings.

Insider Tip: While Easton’s Beach is popular, locals often prefer the sheltered cove at Gooseberry Beach for a quieter day.

Don’t Miss:

• The Breakers: Tour the grandest of the summer cottages.

• Clarke Cooke House: Enjoy an iconic meal at this historic restaurant.

• Lighthouse Tours: Experience the history of the sea on an East Coast lighthouse tour around Narragansett Bay.

Where to Stay:

• Francis Malbone House Inn: Five Star Diamond award-winning property.

• Castle Hill Inn: Resort-like feel on a private peninsula.

• Almondy Inn: Praised for service in a historical setting.

2. The Berkshires, Massachusetts – A Literary and Artistic Escape

For literary lovers, The Berkshires is a pilgrimage destination. Here you can stand in the room where Edith Wharton wrote “The House of Mirth” at The Mount or gaze at Mount Greylock from Herman Melville’s desk.

Why it is perfect for couples: This sophisticated blend of high culture and rustic charm lets you spend an evening listening to the Boston Symphony Orchestra at Tanglewood. The next day, explore Great Barrington, which looks straight out of a Louisa May Alcott novel. It is a cultural standout among East Coast weekend getaways.

Insider Tip: During the holidays, Great Barrington transforms into a real-life snow globe, making it a magical East Coast winter destination.

Don’t Miss: Tour The Mount, visit Arrowhead, attend a Tanglewood concert, and explore farm-to-fork restaurants in Great Barrington.

Adventurous East Coast Weekend Getaways For Nature Lovers

If your ideal trip involves hiking boots rather than high heels, the region offers incredible adventures. The geography provides a variety of terrains, from high peaks to rolling forests. Adventure travelers often look for destinations that provide immediate access to East Coast national parks. These locations allow you to maximize your time with sunrise hikes and kayaking excursions.

3. Bar Harbor, Maine – Gateway to Acadia National Park

Watching the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain’s summit in Acadia is a core memory in the making. Bar Harbor serves as the charming doorstep to this natural wonderland.

Why it is perfect for adventurers:

• World-Class Trekking: Acadia offers some of the best East Coast hiking trails for every skill level, from the Ocean Path to the Precipice Trail.

• Coastal Exploration: The rugged coastline is perfect for sea kayaking and whale watching.

• Scenic Drives: The 27-mile Park Loop Road provides stunning vistas and access to Sand Beach.

Insider Tip: After a long day of hiking, skip the crowded restaurants and find a classic seaside shack for lobster rolls—a quintessential Maine experience.

Don’t Miss: Sunrise on Cadillac Mountain, the full Park Loop Road drive, and downtown Bar Harbor shops.

Where to Stay: Ullikana Inn offers a cozy cottage feel with a gourmet breakfast, just a stroll from the harbor.

4. Asheville, North Carolina – Blue Ridge Mountain Majesty

The Blue Ridge Parkway isn’t just a road; it is the destination. Asheville’s unique duality combines rugged nature with sophisticated bohemian culture.

Why it is perfect for adventurers:

• Hiking Paradise: Surrounded by vast trail networks in Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests.

• Iconic Roads: Direct access to one of the most famous East Coast scenic drives, the Blue Ridge Parkway.

• Vibrant Outdoor Culture: A thriving scene for whitewater rafting and mountain biking.

Insider Tip: Check out the Rattlesnake Lodge trail for a relaxing loop leading to historic stone ruins, avoiding the main crowds.

Don’t Miss: The Biltmore Estate, downtown craft breweries, and the River Arts District.

Family-Friendly East Coast Weekend Getaways

Finding the right destination for the whole crew can be challenging, but family-friendly East Coast weekend getaways offer solutions. The key is finding a location that balances activities for children with relaxation for adults. The best options feature safe shores and educational attractions, perfect for an unforgettable East Coast family trip.

5. Cape May, New Jersey – Victorian Charm and Sandy Shores

The search for “Cape May Diamonds” at Sunset Beach captivates kids for hours. Cape May is a standout for families looking for a classic seaside experience.

Why it is perfect for families:

• Kid-Friendly Shores: Clean, family-oriented sands rivaling the best East Coast beaches.

• Engaging Activities: Climb the Cape May Lighthouse or visit the free County Park & Zoo.

• Unique Nature: A major bird migration hotspot with dolphin-watching tours.

Insider Tip: Renting a whole house often provides a more affordable and flexible option than B&Bs for families.

Don’t Miss: Sunset Beach flag ceremony, the S.S. Atlantus wreckage, and ice cream on the Washington Street Mall.

6. Savannah, Georgia – History, Haunts, and Southern Hospitality

Savannah offers a perfect mix of charmingly grown-up experiences that kids still find enchanting.

Why it is perfect for families:

• Walkable and Engaging: The 22 public squares function as mini-parks for walking breaks.

• Fun for All Ages: Ghost tours are hits with older kids, while Forsyth Park offers space to run.

• Beach Day Nearby: Tybee Island is just 20 minutes away for sun and sand.

Insider Tip: Take the free DOT trolley for an overview of the historic district without tiring little legs.

Don’t Miss: A trolley tour, Leopold’s Ice Cream, and a walk to Forsyth Park’s fountain.

Foodie East Coast Weekend Getaways For Culinary Lovers

For some travelers, the menu dictates the destination. The culinary landscape ranges from New England seafood to Deep South flavors. These trips are an exploration of culture through taste, perfect for anyone interested in an East Coast food tour.

7. Charleston, South Carolina – A Masterclass in Lowcountry Cuisine

Charleston is a pilgrimage site for Southern food lovers. Meals at places like Husk or FIG are the main event of the weekend.

Why it is perfect for foodies:

• Iconic Cuisine: The epicenter of Lowcountry cuisine, offering definitive shrimp and grits.

• Acclaimed Chefs: Packed with James Beard award-winners putting modern Southern cooking on the map.

• Diverse Options: From whole-hog barbecue to historic fine dining. It is consistently ranked among the best East Coast cities for dining.

Insider Tip: Reservations at top-tier restaurants need to be booked months in advance. Try bar seating if you miss out on a table.

Don’t Miss: Dinner at Husk or FIG, Rodney Scott’s BBQ, and she-crab soup at 82 Queen.

Hidden Gem East Coast Weekend Getaways

Sometimes the best trips are the ones no one else is talking about. Hidden gems allow you to escape tourist traps and discover authentic local culture.

8. Hudson Valley, New York – Arts, Antiques, and Farm-to-Table Feasts

The Hudson Valley offers a sophisticated escape, making it a popular trip from NYC. It is especially vibrant for those seeking East Coast fall foliage.

Why it is a hidden gem: Less crowded than the Hamptons, this region provides an authentic getaway. Towns like Hudson and Beacon offer distinct personalities connected by scenic country roads.

Insider Tip: Renting a car is essential to explore the farms, orchards, and wineries properly.

Don’t Miss: Warren Street antiquing, Dia:Beacon museum, and the Walkway Over the Hudson.

9. Little Compton, Rhode Island – A Quiet Coastal Secret

Little Compton embodies an “olde worlde beach hamlet” with no crowds.

Why it is a hidden gem: It has all the beauty of the New England coast—historic farms and quiet beaches—without the Newport crowds.

Don’t Miss: Sakonnet Garden, Goosewing Beach Preserve, and Carolyn’s Sakonnet Vineyard.

Planning Your Perfect East Coast Weekend Getaways

Proper planning can turn a good trip into a great one. Here are some pro tips for your adventure.

The Best Time to Go by Region

• New England: Summer is peak season, but early fall offers brilliant foliage.

• Mid-Atlantic: Spring and fall provide comfortable weather for city exploration.

• The South: Spring and fall are the sweet spots to avoid intense heat, perfect for an East Coast summer vacation alternative if you prefer cooler weather.

Budgeting Your Weekend

• Boston: ~$1,084 for a solo weekend.

• New York City: ~$1,125.

• Charleston: Hotels average $180-$250 per night.

The East Coast offers incredible diversity. From the mansions of Newport to the studios of Asheville, there are countless East Coast weekend getaways waiting for you. Whether you are planning a Southeast road trip or a static city break, this guide will help you craft cherished memories.