22 of the Most Popular Destinations on the Northeast Coast in the U.S.

Trying to think of a nice place to go that isn’t the typical Florida beach vacation? The United States is vast and offers a diverse selection of destinations.

From arid landscapes in the West, to subtropical places in the south to rocky beaches on the east coast, there is something amazing to see at every corner of this country.

Looking at the northeast coast? You may be interested in these spectacular places. This region of the country is historic so several well-established locations can be found!

New York

1. New York City, New York

The largest city in the United States, New York City is known for its iconic landmarks like Times Square, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and Broadway. It’s a hub of culture, arts, and entertainment.

2. Hudson Valley, New York

The Hudson Valley is a New York State region that stretches along the Hudson River from Westchester County to Albany, the state capital. This scenic region offers beautiful landscapes, historic sites, wineries, and cultural events, all within easy reach of New York City.

3. The Adirondacks, New York

A vast wilderness area with lakes, mountains, and forests, the Adirondacks are ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking scenic beauty. It’s also the largest protected area in the U.S.

4. Montauk, New York

Located at the eastern tip of Long Island, Montauk is known for its beaches, surfing, and relaxed coastal atmosphere.

5. Finger Lakes, New York

A series of long, narrow lakes surrounded by rolling hills, the Finger Lakes region offers wineries, waterfalls, and beautiful landscapes.

6. Lake Champlain, Vermont / New York

This freshwater lake offers stunning views of the Adirondack and Green Mountains, as well as opportunities for boating, ice fishing & exploring nearby towns & parks. This is the nation’s sixth largest lake!

7. Catskill Mountains, New York

Known for their lush forests, waterfalls, and mountainous terrain, the Catskills offer a serene natural escape. While not directly on the coast, this is most definitely worth seeing!

Massachusetts

8. Boston, Massachusetts

A historic city with a rich cultural heritage, Boston is famous for its role in American history, as well as its universities, museums, and distinctive neighborhoods. It’s said you can find some amazing architectural design here too!

9. Cape Cod, Massachusetts

A popular summer destination, Cape Cod is known for its beautiful beaches, charming villages, and maritime culture. Totally different from Florida but no less beautiful. Cape Cod provides a quintessential New England coastal experience.

10. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts

This island paradise is known for its pristine beaches, traditional New England cottages, lighthouses & beaches.

11. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

The mountains of western Massachusetts, lined with villages & towns known for outdoor recreation & arts. With its rolling hills, charming towns, and cultural attractions, the Berkshires provide a scenic and cultural getaway.

Pennsylvania

12. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Another city steeped in history, Philadelphia is known for Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and its vibrant arts and culinary scenes.

Rhode Island

13. Newport, Rhode Island

Newport is a city set on Aquidneck Island in the New England state of Rhode Island. Its yacht-filled harbor hosted the America’s Cup, a renowned annual sailing regatta, for many years. Newport is also known for the Gilded Age mansions lining Bellevue Avenue, some of which are now museums. The most famous is The Breakers, an 1895 mansion patterned after a Renaissance palace.

14. Providence, Rhode Island

Rhode Island’s capital city offers a vibrant arts scene, historic architecture, and a lively culinary culture.

Maine

15. Bar Harbor, Maine

Aside from Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor itself offers scenic beauty, including coastal views, a picturesque harbor, and charming shops and restaurants. It is a town on Mount Desert Island along Maine’s Frenchman Bay. It serves as a gateway to the mountains and cliffs of neighboring Acadia National Park. Towering over the park, Cadillac Mountain has trails and views of the town, the bay and the Cranberry Islands. Sand Beach is ringed by mountains. From the town pier, the Shore Path winds along the bay overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Porcupine Islands.

16. Acadia National Park, Maine

This stunning 47,000-acre national park features rugged rocky coastline, granite peaks, and a mix of outdoor recreational opportunities. Looking for more national parks? See this article.

New Hampshire

17. Portsmouth, New Hampshire

Portsmouth is a port city on the Piscataqua River. Known for its historic charm, Portsmouth features cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings, 17th- and 18th-century houses, and a bustling waterfront.

18. White Mountains, New Hampshire

A high-elevation mountain range featuring picturesque landscapes, including the scenic Kancamagus Highway and the Franconia Notch State Park.

Even More Destinations

19. Green Mountains, Vermont

Part of the Appalachian Mountains, this mountain range is home to hiking trails & ski facilities. If you are visiting, it may be worth going in the fall to see the breath-taking fiery fall foliage season.

20. Baltimore, Maryland

Baltimore is a major city in Maryland with a long history as an important seaport. A city with a maritime heritage, Baltimore offers attractions like the Inner Harbor, upscale crab shacks, the National Aquarium, and historic neighborhoods.

21. New Haven, Connecticut

Home to Yale University, New Haven boasts cultural attractions, historic architecture, and a vibrant arts scene.

22. Washington, D.C.

If history is something you’re into, you will enjoy Washington D.C. Explore countless museums and see the nation’s original documents, iconic buildings and more. The nation’s capital is home to numerous historic monuments, museums, government buildings, and cultural institutions, including the Smithsonian museums and the National Mall.

The Northeast Coast offers a diverse range of landscapes, from coastal scenes to mountain vistas. Seasons can greatly impact the scenery, so be sure to consider the time of year you plan to visit to experience the area’s natural beauty at its best.

What are you favorite Northeast destinations? Leave a comment below.