Long before Instagram burst onto the scene as the medium that serves up vacation inspiration, movies and television introduced us to quintessential east coast family vacations. Think about the lakeside cabin resort in Dirty Dancing, the seashore that was home to the mermaid that captivated a young Tom Hanks in Splash, or that scene at the top of the Empire State Building in Sleepless in Seattle.
We have spent years exploring East Coast vacation spots from our home base in Rhode Island. So if you are asking, what are the best places to visit on the East Coast, take a look at our 26 favorites. (Also see my recommendations for best vacations for kids and best vacations for teens.)
If you prefer to explore the East Coast by car, we also have 20 ideas for week-long East Coast road trips for you to try.
Best East Coast Family Vacations
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These 26 East Coast vacations are perfect for classic family trips. Get inspired and then get planning. Tie a few of them together in a big road trip, or take your time to enjoy each destination.
1. Maine Coast
Maine has nearly 3,500 miles of coastline and it can take over six hours to drive from Kittery on the New Hampshire border all the way up to Bar Harbor, outside of Acadia National Park.
The Maine Beaches along the southern coast are popular beach getaway destinations for Bostonians. Charming seaside towns like Kennebunkport offer cute cottages and inns. Others like Old Orchard Beach offer rides and a historic pier for old-fashioned family fun.
In Portland and around Casco Bay, you will find the picturesque rocky coastline dotted with lighthouses and sprinkled with amazing restaurants, breweries, and the flagship L.L. Bean store in Freeport.
However, if you are willing to venture a little further north, you reach the very special MidCoast, home to Camden, artsy and cool Rockland, and one of my favorites, Boothbay Harbor.
If you want to turn this into a road trip instead of settling in just one town, be sure to see my Coastal Maine road trip itinerary for suggestions. You can also pair the Maine coast with a road trip to the Maine Highlands or some time at Moosehead Lake.
Where to stay
- Inn by the Sea, Cape Elizabeth, Maine
- Nonantum Resort, Kennebunk, Maine
- Migis Lodge, South Casco, Maine (one of the best New England family resorts)
- Terramor Outdoor Resort, Bar Harbor, Maine
2. White Mountains, New Hampshire
Some families prefer to spend a week relaxing by one of New Hampshire’s famous lakes, like Lake Winnipesaukee, but the White Mountains are for those that want to be active. Families can go hiking, rock climbing, or just splash around in the waterfalls of Diana’s Baths.
Or, you can earn one of those ubiquitous “This car climbed Mount Washington” stickers or take the easy route by riding the Mount Washington Cog Railway.
Other popular attractions include Flume Gorge, Lost River Gorge, mountain attractions at Attitash or Cranmore, ziplining at Alpine Adventures, and Storyland or Santa’s Village amusement parks. During the fall, a scenic drive on the famous Kancamaugus Highway is a must do!
Where to stay
- Lumen Nature Retreat, N. Woodstock, NH
- Omni Mount Washington Resort, Bretton Woods, NH
- Residence Inn, North Conway, NH
- Huttopia, North Conway, NH
- KOA Lincoln/White Mountains, Lincoln, NH
3. Green Mountains, Vermont
Since I spent my summer vacations in Vermont visiting family, the Green Mountains hold a special place in my heart as a favorite East Coast family vacation destination. I truly believe that Vermont offers the very best of New England.
You can spend a week on the shores of Lake Champlain at a resort like Basin Harbor, or settle down for summer fun at one of Vermont’s many mountain resorts like Smugglers’ Notch.
If you choose, you can spend your days swimming, hiking, and exploring quaint New England towns like Woodstock, Manchester, and Burlington, or enjoy Vermont’s local food scene; by visiting craft breweries, sampling Vermont cheddar cheese, or taking a day trip to the Ben & Jerry’s Factory.
Vermont is small enough that it is easy to explore over a long weekend or week-long Vermont road trip. The ideal time for fall foliage is usually the very beginning of October if you are looking to plan a New England road trip in the fall.
Where to stay
- Basin Harbor Resort, Vergennes, Vermont
- Woodstock Inn & Resort, Woodstock, Vermont
- Stoweflake Mountain Resort, Stowe, Vermont
- The Equinox Resort, Manchester, Vermont
4. Boston, Massachusetts
Boston is the perfect destination for history-loving families and it is such a fun city to explore in the summer. When you are done exploring the historical sites along the Freedom Trail, and visiting the Boston Tea Party Museum and Ships, you can head out on the water for a whale-watching cruise or Boston Harbor Islands tour.
Just make sure you leave time to see the Boston Red Sox if they are in town or tour the historic Fenway Stadium. Spend some free time enjoying the Boston Common and Public Gardens with a swan boat ride and a visit to the Make Way for Ducklings statue.
Enjoy the views from the Skywalk Observatory on the top of the Prudential Center and go shopping along Newbury Street. See more things to do in Boston and these hidden Boston spots.
Just keep in mind that Boston can be pricey, but I have tips for visiting Boston on a budget. If you have a few extra days, you can also plan day trips to Salem, Gloucester and Rockport, or down to Plymouth.
Where to stay
5. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
I can’t think of a better family beach destination in the summer months than Cape Cod and the Islands (Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket). Each town has a different personality, from funky Provincetown to the quiet dunes of Eastham, to the cute downtown in Chatham, and some of the best East Coast beaches.
You can spend hours playing in tide pools, collecting shells, and watching the sunset over the water. Or, hop on the bikes and enjoy the Cape Cod Rail Trail.
But a family vacation at the Cape isn’t only about doing, it is about lazy days, sand between the toes, late afternoon rides to get ice cream, and splurging on lobster dinners, things that the Cape has plenty of.
Where to stay
- Cape Codder Resort & Spa, Hyannis, MA
- Sea Crest Beach Hotel, Falmouth, MA
- Wequassett Resort & Golf Club, Harwich, MA
- Auto Camp Cape Cod, Falmouth, MA
6. Adirondack Mountains, New York
Adirondack Park in Northern New York covers over 6 million acres, encompassing 10,000 lakes, 30,000 miles of rivers and streams, and 46 mountain peaks. This natural playground offers plenty to do throughout the year, but we especially love it in the summer.
The Adirondacks are split into multiple regions. There is the Adirondack Coast along Lake Champlain, the Lake George region in the southern section, and the Tri-Lakes region in the northern section. the Tri-Lakes is one of the most popular regions, especially Lake Placid, which was home to two winter Olympic Games.
The Adirondacks is a perfect place for families with older kids who enjoy being active and outdoors. You can hike, canoe, kayak, and paddleboard to your heart’s content. The whole family, including those with younger children, will love climbing through the treetops at the Wild Center in Tupper Lake.
We’ve enjoyed boat rides on Lake Placid (especially when tubing!), exploring small towns like Saranac Lake, and just enjoying all the natural beauty. I have some ideas for an Adirondack itinerary if you want to plan a summer or fall trip!
Where to stay
- Golden Arrow Lakeside Resort, Lake Placid, New York
- Saranac Waterfront Lodge, Saranac Lake, New York
- Surfside on the Lake, Lake George, New York
7. Niagara Falls, New York
There was a time when Niagara Falls was a destination for honeymooners. Then it became a family road trip destination. In recent years, Niagara Falls has evolved far beyond the falls themselves.
While I still recommend crossing the border to see the Canadian side of the Falls, the Niagara region in the USA has so much to offer. The Niagara Wine Trail offers 22 wineries, breweries, and ciders. Outdoor lovers can eleven New York State parks, the scenic Niagara Gorge, enjoy a high-speed jet boat ride across the Niagara River, or enjoy a birding paradise.
Families can also enjoy Old Fort Niagara, the Aquarium of Niagara, and of course, the Cave of the Winds is not to be missed. It is easy to do Niagara Falls on a weekend getaway, or you can take more time and enjoy some of the unique foods and the revitalized waterfront in nearby Buffalo.
Where to stay
- Sheraton Niagara Falls, Niagara Falls, NY
- Doubletree by Hilton, Niagara Falls, NY
- Hyatt Place, Niagara Falls, NY
8. New York, New York
Have you seen the lights go up on Broadway? Taken selfies in Times Square? Sailed past the Statue of Liberty on the Staten Island Ferry? Strolled through Central Park? Walked along Wall Street? Enjoyed the masterpieces of the Met?
There are enough things to do in New York to last a lifetime and the trick to squeezing as much as you can into one visit is picking a neighborhood and digging in. Walk as much as you can and don’t be afraid to take the subway. And most of all, don’t eat at chain restaurants that you can find at home! See my complete guide for visiting New York City with kids.
A great way to get a sense of the city is with a sightseeing bus tour like The Ride, or investing in a CityPASS and taking a self-guided highlights tour of NYC.
Where to stay
- The Langham, New York
- The Knickerbocker, New York
- Park Terrace Hotel on Bryant Park, New York
9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia is one of the best cities on the East Coast, but it is so frequently overlooked in favor of its neighbor to the north. However, every family should plan a trip to Philadelphia to soak up the history, enjoy the food, and take in the architecture without the crowds and chaos of New York City.
Start off your visit to historic Philadelphia with a tour of Independence Hall, followed by a swing by the Liberty Bell. Leave time to explore the Constitution Center and the new Museum of the American Revolution.
When you have had your fill of history, run up the steps of the Art Museum and pose with the Rocky statue. Or head down to the riverfront or out to the Philadelphia Zoo. Kids love the Franklin Institute and the Please Touch Museum. Or you can get creeped out with a visit to the Eastern State Penitentiary.
There are so many side trips you can add to your trip; including visits to Valley Forge, Lancaster, or Hershey.
Where to stay
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco, Philadelphia
- Sheraton Philadelphia Society Hill, Philadelphia
- Doubletree by Hilton Philadelphia Center City, Philadelphia
10. Wildwood, New Jersey
Every year my sister took her kids to Wildwood for a Jersey Shore family vacation. They spent the week enjoying the five-mile-long beach, swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, taking bike rides on the boardwalk, and spending nights playing games, riding the Ferris Wheel and other rides, and eating boardwalk treats.
This barrier island sits south of Avalon, and just north of historic Cape May. If you do want to leave the beach, you can enjoy the Cape May Zoo, enjoy the Victorian houses in downtown Cape May, or even head up to Atlantic City.
Where to stay
- Adventurer Oceanfront Inn, Wildwood, NJ
- StarLux Hotel & Suites, Wildwood, NJ
- Esplanade Suites, Wildwood, NJ
11. Washington, D.C.
Every family should plan a visit to the Nation’s capital. While finding an affordable hotel room can be a challenge, at least you will save plenty on attractions as many of the museums are free.
It is hard to fit everything into a long weekend in DC without getting museum fatigue, but it is fun to mix things up with walks along the National Mall. One of our favorite memories is exploring monuments, like the Lincoln Memorial, at night.
There are a few things to keep in mind when planning your trip.
- Visits to the Capitol Building and White House will require advance planning. Request access from your state representative and give plenty of time to clear a background check.
- Many museums such as the Library of Congress offer timed-entry tickets that allow you to skip the line.
- You need to request timed-entry tickets to the Holocaust Museum and African American Museum online as entrance is limited.
- Be prepared to go through security screening before entering all museums and most attractions.
Where to stay
12. Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
For many years I equated Rehoboth Beach, Delaware with the more touristy beach towns like Ocean City, Maryland. But while Rehoboth has a boardwalk, this is fully a family destination.
The beaches in Southern Delaware are beautiful, wide, and flat, with perfect waves for body surfing. The town has a mix of motels and inns, but most visitors rent a beach house.
Downtown has a burgeoning food scene, and plenty of family fun: from arcades to bike trails through Cape Henlopen State Park. If you want something even quieter, head further south to Bethany Beach.
Where to stay
13. Virginia Beach, Virginia
If we’re talking about family-friendly beach destinations, Virginia Beach is a strong contender. A 24-foot tall statue of King Neptune welcomes everyone to Virginia Beach’s iconic three-mile-long boardwalk and wide sandy beaches.
With miles of shoreline along both the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean, there are so many things to do in Virginia Beach with kids, making it perfect for water-loving families with adventures suitable for all ages.
The calm waters of the Chesapeake Bay are perfect for families with young children with the waves of the Atlantic are suitable for more adventurous swimmers and surfers of all levels. If water slides are more your family’s thing Ocean Breeze Water Park features a wave pool, lazy river, and 10 slides at an affordable price.
Virginia Beach is also great for families looking to enjoy nature. Explore a variety of coastal ecosystems at First Landing State Park, located just 10 minutes north of the resort area; or hike through Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to reach False Cape State Park, this remote park is not accessible by car but offers the opportunity to camp on the beach and the possibility of seeing wild horses. If your kids are crazy about marine life be sure to check out the Virginia Aquarium or head out on the water for a dolphin or whale-watching cruise.
By Brianna Simmons, The Casual Travelist
Where to stay
14. Williamsburg, Virginia
While Williamsburg is perfect for history buffs, there is so much more to do in the area than just Colonial Williamsburg. Plan to spend at least a day in Williamsburg, and also build in time to visit Jamestown and Yorktown (Hamilton fans will love this!)
If your teens don’t love the living history interpretations at Colonial Williamsburg, perhaps they will enjoy the thrills at Busch Gardens or Watercountry USA nearby.
If you have a little more time in the area, head over to Hampton and Newport News to learn a little more about early American history or the birth of the space program at the Virginia Air and Space Center. See my recommendations for planning a full history road trip!
Where to stay
- Kingsmill Resort
- Williamsburg Lodge
- Hampton Inn and Suites, Williamsburg Historic District
15. Lake Lure, North Carolina
Lake Lure, North Carolina is a great destination for families. You will find plenty of adventure on and off the water surrounded by gorgeous mountain views in every direction. A few must-visit stops are the Lake Lure Flowering Bridge, Chimney Rock State Park, and Chimney Rock Village with lots of shops, and dining options, along with a scenic riverwalk next to the creek that kids will enjoy playing in on a warm sunny day.
The Lake Lure Flowering Bridge is one of two flowering bridges in the United States. Every planter on this former vehicle bridge is a different creative theme and attracts around 8-10,000 visitors from April- October each year.
There are 8 hiking trails for guests to explore at Chimney Rock. Two trails that you will definitely want to check out are the hike to the top of Chimney Rock for incredible views of the area and Hickory Nut Falls Trail to see the 2nd largest waterfall east of the Mississippi. For a relaxing day on the water, take a scenic pontoon boat ride with Lake Lure Tours or enjoy the water beachside located steps away from the Lake Lure Inn and Spa.
By Nedra McDaniel, Adventure Mom
Where to stay
16. Outer Banks, North Carolina
For a few years in my early twenties, my college friends and I would pack up and head down to the Outer Banks for a week each summer. Some of them continued this tradition once they started their families.
While the area has gotten a little more built up in the past two decades, the Outer Banks is still a perfect destination for a laid-back family beach vacation. You can relax by day in the warm waters of the Atlantic, interrupted only by the occasional dolphin pod swimming by.
When you tire of the beach, you can try hang gliding, visit the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse, take out a kayak or paddle board, or take an airplane ride from the place where flight began. See the best things to do in the Outer Banks.
Where to stay
- Beach house rental on the Outer Banks, NC
- Surf Side Hotel, Nags Head, NC
- Shutters on the Banks, Kill Devil Hills, NC
17. Hilton Head, South Carolina
Our favorite getaway on the east coast is Hilton Head Island in South Carolina. Unlike Myrtle Beach, Hilton Head Island has been intentionally developed since the 1950s, and great effort has been made to preserve the live oak trees draped in Spanish moss that give this island its lush feel.
Beneath the trees, vacationers can ride along miles of bike trails, kayak through the marshes and waterways or go horseback riding. Of course, there are beaches, golf courses — traditional and putt putt depending on your skill, and the Pinckney Nature Preserve to fill sunny days with fun.
Restaurants on the island specialize in seafood, low-country cuisine, and barbecue. Truly, whatever your taste, you’ll find it here! For sun and relaxed, southern-style fun, Hilton Head offers something for everyone.
by Karen Dawkins, Family Travels on a Budget
Where to stay
18. Atlanta, Georgia
Atlanta is a great city to visit with tweens and teens. The city is a modern mix of a bustling metropolis, open spaces, and pockets of history. You can easily spend a full day enjoying the attractions around Centennial Park including the fabulous Georgia Aquarium, The World of Coca-Cola, CNN, and the incredibly powerful Center for Civil and Human Rights.
You can get off the beaten path with an Atlanta food tour and a visit to the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historic Site. You can also bike around the Atlanta BeltLine.
Also, take some time to head to Buckhead for shopping and dining. Just remember that Atlanta is a big city so you will need your car (or an Uber account) and give yourself time to deal with traffic.
Where to stay
19. Jekyll Island, Georgia
Jekyll Island is my favorite of Georgia’s Golden Isles, with miles of beautiful beaches and bike trails, and a laid-back way of life. Since much of the island is a nature preserve, you can’t expect to find high-rise hotels lining the beach. But this quieter beach life may be just what you are looking for.
Whether you are visiting for a week or just a day, you must stop by the Georgia Sea Turtle Center. And a walk along Driftwood Beach (or better yet, at sunrise) is an experience like no other.
If you are visiting during the summer, families will also enjoy the Summer Waves water park. If you want something a little quieter and more private to enjoy nature, plan an all-inclusive stay on Little St. Simons Island.
Where to stay
- Westin Jekyll Island
- Holiday Inn Resort Jekyll Island
- Hampton Inn and Suites Jekyll Island
- Jekyll Island Club Resort
20. Amelia Island, Florida
Amelia Island on the northeastern coast of Florida isn’t the same as the palm-lined sands of South Beach. Here you will find wide beaches, rolling sand dunes, and swaying beach grasses.
Inland you will find Spanish moss dripping from old oak trees and black water swamps perfect for kayaking and other outdoor activities. Downtown Fernandina Beach offers historic trolley tours, boutique shopping, and a burgeoning food scene.
You can easily take day trips over to see the wild horses on Cumberland Island, Georgia, or head up to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge for an eco-tour.
Where to stay
- Omni Amelia Island Plantation Resort (one of the best family resorts in Florida)
- The Ritz-Carlton, Amelia Island
21. Orlando, Florida
Of course, Orlando is the best family vacation spots, with something for everyone from toddlers to teens (ok, and even grown-ups.) The theme parks are always introducing new attractions, like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando, Pandora at Animal Kingdom, and, for Star Wars fans, Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios.
But beyond the theme parks are so many more adventures and attractions that it takes a lifetime of visits to get to them all. You can take airboat rides, zip line over alligators, go indoor skydiving, and even enjoy a hot air balloon ride.
Nearby you can visit Legoland, Safari Wilderness Ranch, or go tubing through hot springs.
Where to stay
22. Florida’s Space Coast
Kennedy Space Center is an absolute must visit for families, especially if you have an interest in the space program (and if you don’t, you still won’t be bored!) Plan on spending a whole day exploring the complex, starting with the Atlantis Shuttle exhibit, and ending with a visit to the Apollo / Saturn V display.
There are also special events to take advantage of like lunch with an astronaut or visiting on launch day.
While many people visit Kennedy Space Center on a day trip from Orlando, you should really take the time to enjoy the Space Coast. Cocoa Beach is a surf capital and is a great place to try surfing lessons. Nearby, you can visit the Brevard Zoo and kayak past the giraffes. The Space Coast is full of family fun.
Where to stay
23. Florida Keys
Driving through the Florida Keys is a classic American road trips, surrounded gorgeous blue water and green mangroves, you hop from bridge to bridge as you pass through the Keys.
To get the full experience, it makes sense to start off with a night or two in Key Largo, then a night mid-way through the Keys in Marathon or Duck Key. Finish up your stay with a couple of nights in Key West.
This is the perfect opportunity to enjoy water sports like fishing, boating, kite surfing, paddle boarding, or kayaking. You can also take to the sky for parasailing or take a more tame glass-bottom boat over the coral reef.
When in Key West, be sure to experience the sunset festival and enjoy a frozen, chocolate-dipped key lime pie on a stick. Kids will also enjoy a stop at the Key West Aquarium.
Where to stay
- Hawks Cay Resort, Duck Key
- Casa Marina, Key West
- Doubletree Grand Key Resort, Key West
24. Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida
Sanibel and Captiva Islands off the southwest coast of Florida have a bit of the feel of the Florida Keys, but are much easier to get to with an easy flight into Fort Myers. If you are looking for a relaxed island vacation without a passport, Sanibel and Captiva fit the bill.
Sanibel is the larger of the two islands, with 25 miles of bike paths and mixed-use trails. Lending to that quieter lifestyle, half of the island is preserved against development. Sanibel is also home to a 6,400-acre wildlife preserve.
Captiva is even quieter and both islands are known for fabulous shelling. Inland you will find loggerhead turtles, river otters, and even bald eagles. Off-shore, it isn’t unusual to spot manatees and dolphins off the waters of the islands.
Families will enjoy kayaking, parasailing, sailing, biking, and of course, shell collecting. Nearby, I also love visiting Naples or Marco Island in Southwest Florida.
- South Seas Island Resort, Captiva, FL
- Casa Ybel Resort, Sanibel, FL
25. Clearwater Beach, Florida
The white sand beaches of Clearwater make it one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast. Combined with the calm gulf waters, Clearwater Beach makes a family vacation paradise. Hotels and resorts line the main drag, giving plenty of accommodation options for families.
When not enjoying the water, there are plenty of kid-friendly activities from pirate ship adventures, dolphin cruises, outdoor movies and sunset festivals, and, of course, the famous Clearwater Marine Aquarium.
You can also easily take day trips to Tampa and St. Petersburg for visits to Busch Gardens Tampa and the Florida Aquarium.
Where to stay
- Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach
- Sandpearl Resort
- Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach
- Residence Inn Clearwater Beach
26. Destin, Florida
Destin, Florida is the perfect family vacation destination! You can spend one day just hanging out at the beach or by the pool. Then the next day spend all day visiting attractions in Destin and out on the water.
We highly recommend the Pirate cruise or renting a Pontoon boat to go to Crab Island. If you want to stay on land check out the Gulfarium to see the dolphin show and all sorts of sea creatures or head over to an arcade for games, lazer tag and ropes courses.
When it comes to eating, there are tons of restaurants to pick from and almost all of them are family-friendly. Some even serve the kids meals on a frisbee and are right on the beach!
By Bryanna Royal, Crazy Family Adventure
Where to stay
- Hilton Sandestin Beach
- Henderson Beach State Park (camping)
- Camp Gulf (RV)
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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.
