The East Coast of the USA reads like a who’s who of goliath metropolis, each city with their own impressive charm offensive to lure you in. From ever-so learned Boston packed with revolutionary history and no less than three dozen of the world’s finest universities and colleges, to the mega glamour of New York, with its head-spinning array of delights and mind bending sights, to Washington D.C. Political powerhouse and all round icon superstar that has more cinema-worthy photo spots than you can imagine. Pick one for a city break or explore all three for a full on adventure of the East Coast of the USA.
New York
Geographically it might be the middle of the three cities, but you can’t not start with New York City. Big, bold, and brilliantly brash, New York is a global superstar on the urban stage. World-class theatre, dining, and entertainment and some of the finest hotels in the world come together against a multi-cultural backdrop of edgy neighbourhoods and an unparalleled arts scene. New York really is the city you already think you know. Acid yellow taxi cabs, flashing walk, don’t walk signs, heart-breaking monuments to recent history and the living, breathing emerald, green lung, that is Central Park. New York will be an assault on the senses, but for all the right reasons. You will find everything you want here but maybe leave still wanting more.
Boston
Beautiful Boston is the gateway to New England and is one of the easiest cities anywhere to explore on foot. The 2.5 mile Freedom Trail weaves its way through history and punctuates important sites from the revolution. Follow the red painted line and see the graves of rebels, where the first casualties fell in the Boston Massacre and the House of Paul Revere plus a great deal more. Guided tours are available but it’s easy enough to follow under your own steam. Head to Cambridge for universities steeped in history and a vibrant student population that keeps the food and arts scene very on trend. Set sail on a sunset cruise and see the city as the skyscrapers start to glow and get involved in the superb dining scene. Local seafood is a must-do and covers everything from classic New England to outstanding fine dining, the options are wide and varied. It’s also the perfect launch pad for adventures in New England.
Washington D.C.
What you can say about Washington D.C. that hasn’t already been said. The buildings are as familiar as your own home. The White House, the State Capitol Building and the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Memorials, are all regular visitors to your TV screen whether on the news or via cinema. Take a moment to reflect at the Arlington Memorial and explore the many free museums of the Smithsonian. This might be the nation’s powerhouse when it comes to politics, which it clearly lives and breathes, but it’s also a fascinating destination to explore. If you come in spring, then you’ll be treated to the sight of 3,000 cherry trees in blossom. Washington D.C. is a city that educates, entertains, enlightens, and entertains all in one go.
Getting Here and Getting Around
Boston, New York, and Washington D.C are easily accessible with numerous direct flights from the UK, making city breaks exceptionally easy. If you want to combine cities, then flying into one and out of another is the ideal way to create the perfect tailor-made itinerary that makes the most of your time. Travelling between them once on the ground is easy by train or domestic flights.
Hotels can be expensive but there is a vast array to choose from, and apartment style options are readily available too. When it comes to finding something to suit your budget, Boston, New York and Washington D.C. all have something different to offer.
More From The Expert – Catherine Blackburn
Visit my website at Catherine Blackburn Travel, follow me on Facebook, or give me a call on 01295 231525
Further Reading From Catherine
- Canada
- Eastern Canada
- Atlantic Canada
- Canada: Gold Rush Pioneers
- Australia
- Scandinavia
- New Zealand
- South Africa & Safari
- Caribbean
- Alaska The Last Frontier
- Escape the Winter
- The Evolving Landscape of Travel in 2024: Exploring New Horizons, Sustainability, and Adventure
- California
- Christmas in Lapland
- Florida
