Are you planning a road trip from Virginia to Maine but need help figuring out where to start? Look no further! This guide offers five different road trip itineraries, each based on a different theme, allowing you to select the perfect one.
The scenic road trip from Virginia to Maine takes you through various landscapes and cultural attractions.
It takes you through the picturesque mountains of West Virginia and Pennsylvania, the scenic farmlands of New York, and the rugged beauty of New England, starting in the lush rolling hills of Virginia and passing through historic cities and small towns.
We provide all the information you need to plan your road trip, including accommodation, dining, and entertainment recommendations.
This road trip itinerary will help you make the most of your time on the East Coast and create lasting memories.
Overview of the route from Virginia to Maine
The distance between Virginia and Maine is around 757 miles (1218 km), and the road trip can take anywhere from 12 to 14 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
This scenic journey through the East Coast starts in Virginia and winds through Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Rhode Island, and Massachusetts, and finally, ends in the picturesque state of Maine.
In planning a fantastic road trip from Virginia to Maine, there are several major cities worth visiting along the way:
Richmond, VA
Richmond occupies a prominent position in Virginia history for its rich history during the Civil War, including being the capital of the Confederacy. The Virginia State Capitol and the Museum of the Confederacy are two of the city’s many historical sites.
Baltimore, MD
Home to the Baltimore Museum of Industry and the Baltimore Museum of Art, Baltimore is known for its charming Inner Harbor and historic neighborhoods.
Philadelphia, PA
Known as the “City of Brotherly Love,” Philadelphia is home to many historic sites such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Visitors can also enjoy the city’s vibrant food and nightlife scene.
New York City, NY
Known for its famous landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building, New York City is the largest city in the United States.
The city also offers Broadway shows, world-class museums, and some of the best shopping and dining in the country.
Boston, MA
Famous landmarks in Boston include the Freedom Trail, Fenway Park, and the USS Constitution Museum.
In addition to its many museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts, the city is also famous for its seafood cuisine.
Manchester, Vermont
Manchester, Vermont, is a popular destination for fall foliage during the peak season in September and October.
The town is surrounded by beautiful mountains and forests, making it a perfect spot to take in the vibrant autumn colors. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, or even hot air balloon rides to take in the views of the fall foliage.
The town is known for its colorful fall foliage, which can be seen while driving through the country roads.
The fall foliage in Manchester is a spectacular sight, with the trees changing colors to orange, yellow and red, making the town look like a painting.
New England
New England is a region in the northeastern United States known for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture.
A New England road trip is the perfect way to explore the region’s picturesque landscapes, rich history, and diverse culture.
One of the best things about a New England road trip is the opportunity to visit each of the six states: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont.
It is ideal for experiencing the region’s stunning fall foliage. One of the highlights of a New England road trip is the opportunity to sample the region’s delicious seafood.
A New England road trip is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the region’s many hiking trails, parks, and beaches. It can be customized according to your interests and preferences, whether you are interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or seafood.
A New England road trip is a great way to explore the charming towns and cities of the region, such as Portsmouth, Providence, and Burlington. It is also an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture, art, and music scene.
It can be enjoyed any time of the year; each season has its charm, whether it’s the fall foliage, the summer beaches, or the winter sports. A New England road trip is a perfect way to experience the best of the region’s natural beauty, culture, and seafood all in one trip.
Notable destinations while on a New England road trip:
Hartford, Connecticut
Hartford is known as the “Insurance Capital of the World” in New England and is home to many historic sites, museums, and cultural institutions, including the Mark Twain House and the Wadsworth Atheneum.
Burlington, Vermont
This charming college town is known for its beautiful scenery, outdoor activities, and vibrant arts and culture in New England. Visitors can enjoy hiking, skiing, and lake activities.
Newport, Rhode Island
Newport is famous for its beautiful beaches, historic mansions, and sailing culture in New England. Visitors can tour the famous mansions along Bellevue Avenue or enjoy a day at the beach.
Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Portsmouth is a picturesque coastal town known for its rich maritime history, charming downtown area, and beautiful beaches in New England.
Visitors can take a walk along the working harbor, visit the Strawbery Banke Museum, and take a tour of the USS Albacore.
Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere, Cape Cod is a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing in New England.
Visitors can also explore the Cape Cod National Seashore and enjoy the Cape Cod Rail Trail, a 22-mile paved bike trail.
Bar Harbor, Maine
Bar Harbor is a coastal town located on the doorstep of Acadia National Park. Bar Harbor is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities in New England.
Visitors to Bar Harbor can take a hike or a boat tour or visit the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company.
There are numerous ways to explore Bar Harbor, including taking a bus tour, cycling or driving the scenic Park Loop Road, or taking a boat tour.
Bar Harbor also offers outdoor activities, such as kayaking, sailing, and rock climbing.
These are just a few of the many destinations that New England has to offer. Each state has its unique charm and attractions to explore. Visitors can enjoy a mix of outdoor activities, history, culture, and some of the best seafood in New England.
Portland, MA
There are many galleries, shops, and restaurants in Portland, Maine’s largest urban area. A charming waterfront city is known for its Old Port district. Many parks and outdoor adventure activities are available in the city, such as hiking and biking trails.
How long will it take to drive from Virginia to Maine?
It will take 12 hours to drive from Virginia to Maine. The driving distance is 757 miles or 1,218 kilometers.
Factors that affect driving time from Virginia to Maine
A road trip from Virginia to Maine can be an exciting trip. However, the driving time can still be affected by various factors during your road trip:
Traffic
Heavy road traffic can slow the road trip, adding hours to the journey. The traffic density along the route is typically higher in urban areas or around significant cities.
Speed limits and how fast you drive
Your speed limits depend on the type of road you’re driving on. Highway speed limits range from 55-75 mph, while residential speed limits range from 25-35 mph.
Speed limits impact road trip driving time when you are balancing speed and safety.
Going above the limit can be faster but increases accident risk while operating at or below the limit can be more efficient and less stressful but may take longer during your road trip.
Several stops and breaks
Stops and breaks add time to the trip, so they can significantly affect driving time.
Taking a break every couple of hours on your road trip can prevent fatigue and increase driver focus, resulting in a safer drive.
The overall travel time of the road trip may increase if meals, restroom breaks, fuel, or other necessities are included in the trip.
Road conditions
Delays can be caused in road trips by poor road conditions, such as heavy traffic, construction, accidents, and bad weather.
But good road conditions with little traffic and a clear sky would allow a smoother and faster road trip.
Accommodation options
Do not spend hours researching hotels when planning a road trip from Virginia to Maine because we’ve compiled a list of great places to stay, whether you are looking for luxury or a budget-friendly option.
Hotels and motels
In most cities and towns, hotels and motels are readily available and convenient for those who prefer traditional hotel amenities and services.
In Richmond, VA, Hampton Inn provides comfortable accommodations and amenities like free breakfast and WiFi on your road trip.
Vacation Rentals
Whether you are traveling with family or a group on a road trip, vacation rentals such as vacation homes, cabins, and cottages offer comfort and a local experience.
In Virginia, the Blue Ridge Mountains offer a wide variety of vacation homes and places for a road trip, including The Blue Ridge Hideaway, a spacious 3-bedroom cabin with scenic views and a hot tub.
Campsites and RV parks
The great outdoors can be enjoyed at campsites and RV parks while on a road trip, which is perfect for those who prefer a more rustic or natural setting.
Mathews Arm Campground, for example, offers a beautiful and wild camping, hiking, and picnicking environment in Shenandoah National Park in Virginia.
You may also like: 10 Spots To Sleep In Your Car And Park Overnight
Bed and breakfasts
B&Bs can provide a unique and personal experience on your road trip. Many offer charming and historic accommodations and are often run by locals with insider knowledge about the area. Chatham House Bed & Breakfast in Portsmouth, VA, offers elegant accommodations in a restored 18th-century house with excellent reviews from guests.
Hostels
Solo travelers or backpackers may find hostels to be budget-friendly options during your road trip. Budget-friendly accommodation options are available at Hostel International Bar Harbor in Bar Harbor, Maine.
Bar Harbor, Maine, is a popular destination for solo travelers and backpackers due to its budget-friendly accommodation options, such as hostels.
Hostel International Bar Harbor is located in the heart of Bar Harbor and offers comfortable and affordable accommodation for travelers on a budget.
The hostel has various room options, including dormitory-style and private rooms, which are perfect for solo travelers or small groups.
Guests in Bar Harbor can also take advantage of the hostel’s shared kitchen and lounge areas, which are great places to meet other travelers and make new friends in Bar Harbor.
Dining and entertainment
Plan out where to eat and what to do in each city before you go on a road trip from Virginia to Maine. Our recommendation list includes dining and entertainment options for your road trip.
Richmond, VA
A new American restaurant, such as The Roosevelt, or an American diner, like Tarrant’s Cafe, is two of the many dining options in Richmond, VA, while you are on a road trip.
For entertainment, tour the Virginia Capitol or see a show at the historic Carpenter Theatre.
Baltimore, MD
Dining options in Baltimore, MD, include Little Italy for some of the city’s best Italian food and Faidley’s Seafood for seafood.
Visit the Hippodrome Theatre or stroll around the Inner Harbor for entertainment on your road trip.
Philadelphia, PA
Pat’s or Geno’s cheesesteaks are popular restaurants in Philadelphia, PA, where you can also sample some of the city’s famous soft pretzels.
You can visit Independence Hall or watch a show at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts for entertainment.
New York City, NY
If you want a great place to eat in New York City, NY, try some of the city’s famous pizzas or hot dogs or check out local favorites, such as Di Fara Pizza or Gray’s Papaya.
Catch a Broadway show or visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art for entertainment.
Boston, MA
If you’re in Boston, MA, try Union Oyster House or No.9 Park for some of the city’s famous seafood. Take a walk along the Freedom Trail or catch a game at Fenway Park for entertainment.
New England
New England is known for its delicious seafood, particularly lobster, clams, and oysters.
Union Oyster House is the oldest continuously operating restaurant in the United States, located in Boston, known for its oyster dishes and New England seafood specialties
New England is also home to many local farms, which provide fresh and delicious ingredients to the region’s restaurants. The Farmer’s Table is a farm-to-table restaurant located in Westport, Connecticut, that sources its ingredients from local farms and producers. Also, it serves brunch, lunch, and dinner.
New England also has many craft breweries and wineries that offer tastings and tours.
There is a wide variety of entertainment options for visitors, including live music, theater, comedy, and more.
These are just a few of the many dining and entertainment options available in New England; depending on your interests and preferences, there are many more to explore.
Portland, ME
Dining options in Portland, ME, include lobster rolls and local favorites like Eventide Oyster Co and Street and Co. Explore the Portland Museum of Art and Victoria Mansion Museum or stroll along the Eastern Promenade for entertainment during your road trip.
Road trip tips
We have put together some of the best road trip tips and advice to help make the most of your road trip from Virginia to Maine.
Safety
The first thing to remember when you are on a road trip is that road trips can be long and tiring, so take regular breaks to stretch your legs and rest your eyes to ensure you stay safe.
Make sure your vehicle’s oil, tires, brakes, and other systems are in good working condition before leaving for the road trip, and also check the road conditions and potential hazards, such as bad weather.
Entertainment
When you and your passengers are driving long distances on your road trip, it’s important to have entertainment options that will occupy you.
Pass the time by reading, listening to music, listening to podcasts, or playing games on your road trip.
Consider stopping at interesting places or landmarks along the way, or plan your road trip to include a stop in a major city with plenty of entertainment options.
Saving money
Saving money while on a road trip is essential because road trips can be costly. Rather than eating out, bring food and snacks with you to save money.
Similarly, hiking trails, parks, and museums can also be found for free or at a low cost on a road trip. Also, you can look for lodging and activity discounts.
Ultimately, the most important thing is to enjoy your road trip as much as possible while staying safe and sound.
Must-see attractions from Virginia to Maine
As your journey begins in Virginia and ends in Maine, you should be ready to travel through some of the East Coast’s most picturesque and historical regions on this road trip.
The route has several great attractions, so we’ve compiled a list of some of the best.
Shenandoah National Park, Virginia
Shenandoah National Park in Virginia should be your first stop. In addition to its beautiful scenery of hiking trails, the park is home to lots of wildlife. A scenic drive through the park can be enjoyed on Skyline Drive.
Harpers Ferry, West Virginia
After that, you will want to make your way to West Virginia. Harpers Ferry, a small town with several historical sites, can be visited here. Alternatively, you can ride on the historic riverboat of the Potomac Riverboat Company.
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, Baltimore, MD
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is a must-see stop on your way into Maryland. In addition to walking around here, you can also take a boat ride or visit the National Aquarium.
Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, PA
Once you’ve entered Pennsylvania, you should visit the Gettysburg National Military Park. Gettysburg is home to the Gettysburg National Battlefield, where one of the most significant battles of the Civil War took place.
Additionally, you can tour the Gettysburg Museum to learn more about the town’s history.
Finger Lakes, New York, NY
Eventually, you’ll reach New York State on your journey. Visit the Finger Lakes region, where you’ll find some of the best wineries in the country. Also, you can ride through the Erie Canal, a historic waterway.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Your final destination is Maine, where you will see beautiful beaches in this state and Acadia National Park. Acadia National park is a beautiful and diverse national park located on the coast of Maine.
Acadia National park encompasses over 49,000 acres of land, including the highest peak on the United States East Coast, Cadillac Mountain.
Indeed, road trips on the East Coast of the United States, with a final destination of Acadia National park, would be an amazing trip.
5 trip alternatives routes from Virginia to Maine
Here are the 5 trip alternatives from Virginia to Maine
1. The Beachy Route
For those looking for a traditional beach vacation that offers plenty of time for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports as well as a chance to explore charming seaside towns, the Beachy Route is an excellent choice.
Day 1: Spend your first day at Virginia Beach, a popular seaside destination known for its beaches and boardwalk.
Afterward, drive to Cape May, New Jersey, taking about four hours, stopping in Delaware and Maryland on the way.
Nothing is more charming than Victorian architecture, charming streets, and beautiful beaches in Cape May.
Day 2: Continue to Atlantic City, New Jersey, known for its iconic boardwalk, casinos, and entertainment options.
Boardwalk, Steel Pier amusement park and Atlantic City Historical Museum are must-see places in Atlantic City which is also one of the best tourist attractions.
A stroll through the Marina District or a trip to Atlantic City Beach is an option.
Day 3: Drive to Ocean City, Maryland, a famous seaside resort town known for its wide, clean beaches and boardwalk.
The must-see attractions in Ocean City are Trimper’s Rides and Amusement Park and the Ocean City Life-Saving Station Museum.
Dolphin-watching tours, sunset cruises, and Assateague Island National Seashore tours are also available.
Day 4: Head to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, a charming seaside town known for its lively atmosphere.
Rehoboth Beach has a lot to offer, including the beach and boardwalk, the Rehoboth Beach Bandstand, and the Clear Space Theatre Company.
The Tanger Outlets and Cape Henlopen State Park are also nearby.
Day 5: Visit the Cape Henlopen State Park, a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, and then drive to Ocean City, New Jersey.
A visit to Ocean City, NJ, would only be complete with visiting the Music Pier and the Ocean City Historical Museum.
There is also Gillian’s Wonderland Pier, an amusement park, and dolphin-watching cruises.
Day 6: Drive to Long Beach Island, New Jersey.
Barnegat Lighthouse State Park and Fantasy Island Amusement Park are some of the must-sees on Long Beach Island.
Visit the Viking Village, a historical fishing village, or take a Sunset Sail.
Day 7: Head to Point Pleasant, New Jersey.
The Jenkinson’s Boardwalk, Point Pleasant Beach, and the Point Pleasant Borough Historical Society are some of the attractions in Point Pleasant that you don’t want to miss.
There is also Jenkinson’s Aquarium nearby, as well as sunset cruises on the Manasquan River.
Day 8: Drive to Asbury Park, New Jersey, a historic seaside town known for its vibrant arts and Victorian architecture.
Silverball Museum Arcade, Stone Pony music venue, and the Asbury Park Boardwalk are some of the best places to see in Asbury Park.
The Paramount Theater and Asbury Park Beach are also great places to visit.
Day 9: Continue on to Sandy Hook, New Jersey, a beautiful barrier island located on the coast of New Jersey.
Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Fort Hancock, and Gateway National Recreation Area are some of Sandy Hook’s top attractions.
Alternatively, you can ride the Henry Hudson Trail or visit Sandy Hook Beach.
Day 10: Drive to New York City, the most populous city in the United States and one of the most iconic cities in the world.
New York City has so much to offer that it is difficult to list it all, but some must-see places include the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Day 11: Drive to New Haven, Connecticut, a historic coastal city known for its Ivy League university, Yale, and rich cultural and architectural heritage.
There are several places to see in New Haven, including the Yale University Art Gallery, East Rock Park, and the New Haven Museum.
East Shore Park and Shubert Theater are also worth a visit.
Day 12: Continue to Mystic, Connecticut, a charming coastal town known for its historic seaport, aquarium, and maritime museum.
There are several must-see places in Mystic, including the Mystic Seaport Museum, the Mystic Aquarium, and the Olde Mistick Village.
Also, you can ride a boat on the Mystic River or visit the Denison Homestead.
Day 13: Drive to Boston, Massachusetts, one of the oldest and most historically significant cities in the United States. It is known for its rich colonial history, world-class universities, and vibrant cultural scene.
Among the must-see places in Boston are the Freedom Trail, the Boston Common, the USS Constitution Museum, and the Boston Tea Party Museum.
Alternatively, you can walk in the Boston Public Garden or visit the Boston Public Library.
Day 14: Drive to Portland, coastal Maine, a picturesque coastal city known for its lively arts scene, delicious seafood, and historic architecture.
The Portland Head Light, the Portland Museum of Art, and the Eastern Promenade are some of the must-see attractions in Portland.
Visit the Portland Observatory or stroll along the Portland Old Port while you’re there.
2. The National Parks Route
A trip along the National Parks Route is an excellent choice for those who wish to explore the natural beauty and outdoor activities of some of the United States’ most iconic national parks.
Day 1: You’ll start your road trip in Virginia Beach and drive to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, a unique and ecologically significant wetland in the southeastern part of Virginia.
The Refuge is known for its diverse plant and animal life, including black bears, foxes, and over 200 species of birds. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, camping, fishing, and birdwatching.
Day 2: Drive to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, a beautiful park known for its scenic Skyline Drive and many hiking trails, including the famous 101-mile-long Appalachian Trail.
The park is also home to a wide variety of plant and animal life, including black bears, deer, and over 180 species of birds. It’s an excellent spot for hiking, camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
Day 3: Head to the Appalachian National Scenic Trail, also known as the AT, one of the most iconic and well-known hiking trails in the United States.
The AT is a 2,190-mile-long trail that runs from Georgia to Maine, and it’s famous for its scenic beauty, diverse plant and animal life, and challenging terrain.
With steep climbs, descents, rocky terrain, and rugged wilderness, hiking on the AT is a true backpacking adventure
Day 4: Visit New Hampshire’s White Mountains, an iconic mountain range renowned for its rugged peaks and scenic vistas, as well as its world-class hiking and backpacking.
The White Mountains are home to the highest peak in the northeastern United States, Mount Washington, also the most prominent peak east of the Mississippi River.
A number of other peaks can also be found in the range, including Mount Adams, Mount Jefferson, and Mount Clay.
Day 5: Visit the Acadia National Park in Maine, a beautiful national park on the coast of Maine. The park is known for its rugged coastline, granite peaks, and diverse plant and animal life.
Thunder Hole, Cadillac Mountain, and Jordan Pond are some of the most popular attractions in the park.
Day 6-8: You’ll have the opportunity to explore the coast of Maine, including downtown Portland, Bar Harbor, and the Maine Lobster Festival. Portland, Maine’s largest city, is known for its historic Old Port, art galleries, and craft breweries.
Bar Harbor is a charming seaside town on the edge of the park known for its lobster boats, seafood, and outdoor activities.
Bar Harbor is a charming seaside town located on the coast of Maine, known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
It is the main gateway to the Acadia National Park, which offers over 120 miles of hiking trails, a variety of lakes and ponds, and the opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of the Atlantic coast.
Bar Harbor is a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the park, and there are many ways to do so.
Visitors can take a bus tour in Bar Harbor, bike or drive along the scenic Park Loop Road, or take a boat tour to see the park from the sea.
Bar Harbor also offers outdoor activities such as kayaking, sailing, and rock climbing.
In Bar Harbor, you can walk along the historic Main Street and explore local art galleries and boutiques.
It is also home to the Abbe Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Wabanaki people.
One of the most famous events in Bar Harbor is the Maine Lobster Festival, held annually in Rockland, which celebrates Maine’s renowned seafood with a parade, cooking contests, and live music.
3. The City Hopper Route
Taking the City Hopper Route is one of the best ways to explore some of America’s most iconic cities and landmarks while also experiencing their unique cultures and histories.
Day 1: Start your road trip in Virginia Beach and drive to Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States.
Washington, D.C., is home to many iconic landmarks, historical sites, and world-class museums.
Day 2: This day in Washington, D.C., can be an excellent opportunity to visit some of the most iconic landmarks in the city, including the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument.
The National Mall, Smithsonian museums, and the Capitol building are also worth a visit.
Day 3: Take a short drive to Baltimore, Maryland, where you can explore the Inner Harbor and visit the Baltimore Museum of Industry, the Maryland Science Center, and the Baltimore National Aquarium.
You can also visit the historic neighborhoods of Fells Point and Little Italy or take a tour of the famous Fort McHenry National Monument.
Day 4: Head to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where you can visit historical landmarks such as Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed, and the Liberty Bell.
You can also visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Reading Terminal Market, and the Italian Market.
Day 5: Drive to New York City and visit some of the most iconic landmarks in the city, including the Statue of Liberty and Times Square.
You can also visit Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Empire State Building. If you’re interested in fascinating history and culture, you can see the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum.
Day 6: Continue to Providence, Rhode Island, where you can visit the Rhode Island School of Design Museum, the Roger Williams Park Zoo, and the WaterFire Providence art installation.
You can also explore the historic East Side neighborhood, where you’ll find the Governor Henry Lippitt House, the John Brown House Museum, and the First Baptist Church in America.
Day 7: Drive to Boston, Massachusetts, where you can visit historical sites such as the Freedom Trail, the USS Constitution Museum, and the Massachusetts State House.
You can also visit the Boston Common, the Public Garden, and the Boston Tea Party Museum. Also, check out the iconic Fenway Park and the Boston Red Sox and tour the historic ballpark.
Day 8: Explore Boston and see the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path that takes you to 16 historically significant sites, including the Old North Church, Paul Revere’s House, and the USS Constitution Museum.
Take a tour of Fenway Park, the historic home of the Boston Red Sox, during your visit.
Day 9: Drive to Portland, Maine, where you can explore the city’s historic Old Port district, visit the Portland Museum of Art, and take a tour of the Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in America.
Alternatively, you can take a ferry to nearby islands like Peaks Island or Great Diamond Island or visit the Portland Fish Exchange to watch the daily catch auctioned.
4. The History Buff Route
The History Buff route is a great way for history enthusiasts to explore some of the most historically significant places in the United States. This itinerary offers a great mix of historical and cultural experiences, as well as a chance to explore the beauty of the East Coast.
Day 1: Starting in Virginia Beach, you can take a leisurely drive to Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia, where you can step back in time and experience what life was like in the 18th century.
Several historical sites are open to the public, such as the Governor’s Palace and the Capitol Building, where costumed interpreters demonstrate trades and crafts of the colonial era.
Day 2: The next day, you can head to Jamestown, Virginia, which is known as the site of the first permanent English settlement in America.
Here you can visit the Jamestown Settlement, where you can learn about the colony’s history through exhibits, films, and interactive galleries.
You can also visit the original James Fort, where you can see reconstructions of the fort and the three ships that brought the English settlers to America in 1607.
Day 3: After your visit to Jamestown, you can drive to Monticello, the home of Thomas Jefferson, in Charlottesville, Virginia. Monticello offers a glimpse into one of the country’s most influential figures’ life as a well-preserved example of American architecture.
You can take a tour of the house and gardens and see the many artifacts and works of art that Jefferson collected during his lifetime.
Day 4: Head to the Shenandoah National Park in Virginia, which is located in the Blue Ridge Mountains. It is home to over 500 miles of trails, including the famous 105-mile-long Skyline Drive, which offers spectacular views of the Shenandoah Valley and the surrounding mountains.
You can also visit the Big Meadows area, where you can find lodging, a campground, and a visitor center.
Additionally, you can visit the Dark Hollow Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in the park, or Old Rag Mountain, a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing.
Day 5: After your visit to the Shenandoah National Park, you can drive to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
You can visit Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were both signed, and the Liberty Bell, an enduring symbol of American independence.
You can also take a walk around the historic district, where you can see other historical sites such as the Christ Church, the Betsy Ross House, and the Franklin Court.
Day 6: Continue on to New York City, one of the most iconic cities in the world.
You can visit the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, where you can learn about the history of the island and the millions of immigrants who passed through it on their way to a new life in America.
You can also visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a tribute to the victims of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.
Additionally, you can visit other famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and the Empire State Building. New York City has a lot to offer, and you could spend a week or more exploring all it has to offer.
Day 7: After your visit to New York City, you can drive to Boston, Massachusetts, where you can visit the Paul Revere House and the Old North Church.
The Paul Revere House is the oldest remaining structure in downtown Boston, and it was once home to the famous patriot and silversmith Paul Revere.
The Old North Church, also known as Christ Church, is the oldest standing church in Boston, and it was the starting point of Paul Revere’s famous ride.
Day 8: Head to Portland, Maine, where you can visit the Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse in Maine. The lighthouse is located on the coast of Cape Elizabeth, and it offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding area.
You can also visit the Portland Museum of Art, which features works by Maine artists as well as American and European art.
Day 9: On the last day of your trip, you can explore the coast of Maine, including Kennebunkport, a charming coastal town known for its historic homes and picturesque beaches.
You can also visit the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath, which explores the state’s maritime history and culture through exhibits and interactive displays.
Also, take a tour of the Maine State Pier, where you can see the working fishing boats and learn more about Maine’s fishing industry.
5. The Foodie Route
The Foodie Route is a great way for food enthusiasts to explore some of the most delicious and iconic dishes of the United States. This route is a great way to explore the best of the East Coast and discover its rich culinary heritage.
Day 1: Starting in Virginia Beach, you can take a leisurely drive to Norfolk, Virginia, which is known for its fresh seafood and coastal cuisine.
You can explore the historic downtown area and visit local seafood markets, where you can try some of the freshest seafood in the region.
You can also visit the Nauticus Museum and the Battleship Wisconsin, both of which offer a glimpse into the city’s naval history.
Day 2: Head to the Shenandoah Valley, known for its picturesque scenery, outdoor recreational opportunities, and local wines. You can visit Luray Caverns, which is a popular natural attraction in the area.
The Shenandoah Valley region is known for its great wines, and it offers a great opportunity to sample the local wines and learn about the winemaking process.
Day 3: After your visit to the Shenandoah Valley, you can drive to Baltimore, Maryland, where you can try one of the city’s most famous dishes, the Maryland blue crab.
Baltimore is known for its seafood, and the blue crab is a must-try for visitors. You can visit one of the city’s famous crab houses, where you can enjoy steamed crabs, crab cakes, and other crab-based dishes.
In addition to trying the local delicacies, you can also visit the Inner Harbor, the Baltimore Museum of Industry, and the Maryland Science Center.
Day 4: Continue to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where you can try a Philly cheesesteak, one of the city’s most famous dishes. It’s a sandwich with thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and melted cheese on a long roll.
You can find the best cheesesteak sandwich in the city at the famous Pat’s King of Steaks or Geno’s Steaks.
In addition to trying the local delicacies, you can also visit the historic district of Philadelphia, including Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Day 5: After you visit Philadelphia, you can drive to New York City, where you can try a slice of New York-style pizza. New York-style pizza is known for its large, thin, and foldable pieces with a crispy crust and various toppings.
You can find some of the best pizza in the city at famous pizzerias such as Di Fara Pizza, Lombardi’s, or Patsy’s Pizzeria.
Day 6: On your last day, head to Providence, Rhode Island, where you can explore the city’s historic East Side, where you’ll find the Governor Henry Lippitt House, the John Brown House Museum, and the First Baptist Church in America.
You can also visit the Rhode Island School of Design Museum, the Roger Williams Park Zoo, and the WaterFire Providence art installation.
Providence is also an excellent destination for foodies. You can find a diverse range of restaurants, from seafood to Italian and from farm-to-table to vegan.
Takeaway: Drive from Virginia to Maine with the ultimate itinerary and make the most of your road trip
Taking an East Coast road trip provides a fantastic opportunity to explore the region’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
From the beaches of Virginia to the bustling cities of New York and Boston, the road trip from Virginia to Maine offers a diverse range of destinations and experiences.
We have outlined five possible routes for your journey, and each route offers a unique way to discover the region’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty.
Whether you’re interested in visiting famous landmarks, delving into American history, trying delicious local cuisine, or exploring the beautiful beaches and national parks, a road trip from Virginia to Maine is a fantastic road trip to explore a significant part of the United States.
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