The Northeastern United States is one of the most beautiful places the country has to offer. Aside from its rich history, the region is also incredibly picturesque, featuring mountains, small coastal towns, forests, and unique cultural experiences. Planning a whole road trip to see and enjoy it is totally worth it.
In this guide, we’ll give you Northeast road trip ideas, breaking down everything you need to plan for an unforgettable adventure, including suggested spots, scenic routes, budgeting tips, and more.
Why Choose a Road Trip Through the Northeast U.S.?
The beauty of a Northeast U.S. road trip lies in its variety of options. Within a few hours of driving, you can go from historic cities to secluded mountain trails or from scenic beaches to bustling college towns.
Unlike other regions where long stretches of highway might separate your stops, the Northeast packs a lot into a relatively small area, which means less driving and more exploring.
Top Places To Explore in the Northeast
There’s no shortage of places to go for Northeast road trips, but we especially recommend some particular spots:
- Maine. Known for its rugged coastline, delicious seafood, and iconic lighthouses, Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are two stops you definitely don’t want to miss.
- Vermont. This state is especially beautiful in the fall. Cities like Burlington are worth visiting thanks to their laid-back vibe, local cuisine, and art scene.
- New Hampshire. The Kancamagus Highway, a 34-mile scenic route through the White Mountains, offers some of the most jaw-dropping views in the entire Northeast.
- New York. Of course, this state offers much more than the city that never sleeps. While New York City is worth visiting, other parts of the state, such as the Hudson Valley, the Catskills, or the Adirondacks, offer plenty of natural beauty.
Scenic Drives You Will Never Forget
Some roads in the Northeast feel like they were designed with road trippers in mind. U.S. Route 1 is a perfect example of that. This highway takes you through multiple cozy seaside towns, creating the ultimate coastal adventure. Alternatively, if you are heading to New York, consider visiting the Taconic State Parkway, which offers stunning views of the countryside.
Best Time To Go Road Tripping
Fall is the most popular time when people plan a Northeastern road trip by far, and for good reason. From late September through mid-October, the trees’ foliage explodes into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, making every drive feel like you are moving through a painting.
Other popular times to go on a Northeast road trip are summer (June to August), which is great for beach stops and festivals, or spring (April to May), as there are fewer crowds, good weather, and blooming flowers.
Budgeting for Your Road Trip
Traveling the Northeast doesn’t have to break the bank. Here are a few tips for you:
- Plan gas stops with apps that show real-time prices. You will find better deals outside major cities.
- Be smart about where you stay the night. Mixing up staying in bigger cities with major hotel chains or smaller towns where your best bet is a cozy bed-and-breakfast will help you balance your budget. You can also look into hostels.
- Eat local. Dinners, delis, and food trucks are often more flavorful and affordable than other chain restaurants. Pack up some snacks for the road, too.
Packing and Road Safety Tips
If you are wondering what clothes to pack, the answer is layers, layers, layers! The weather in the Northeast can change very quickly, so it’s best to be prepared. Bring comfy walking shoes, a rain jacket, and a warm sweater.
Don’t forget the road trip essentials: first-aid kit, car emergency kit, phone charger, snacks, water bottles, and downloaded maps in case you lose service. Check your vehicle’s tire pressure, oil levels, and brakes before leaving.
Additionally, you should take breaks often and stop driving if you feel tired. Take turns driving whenever possible and plan for some downtime each day to avoid rushing from one place to another.
Itinerary Ideas
If this is your first time planning a Northeastern road trip, consider how much time you plan to spend traveling. We recommend looking at three different travel timelines, including three days, five days, and seven days. Here are some examples of what a travel plan could look like for each timeline:
- Three days. Consider a loop from Boston to Portland, Maine, with a stop in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. You’ll experience city vibes, coastal charm, and fantastic seafood.
- Five days. Start in New York City, then head to the Hudson Valley, then onto the Catskills before crossing into Vermont for lakeside views and mountain hikes.
- Seven days. Your seven-day adventure will also begin in New York City, with a few extra stops. Drive through the Hudson Valley, stop in the Adirondacks, swing through Burlington, VT, and cross into New Hampshire for the Kancamagus Highway. Next, you’ll head to Portland, ME, and finish your trip in Acadia National Park.
Stay Organized for the Next Road Trip With Bluebird Self Storage
Are you ready to go on the greatest adventure of your life through the Northeastern mountains and coastline? If you need a place to store your road trip supplies and clothing between trips or simply want to declutter your space, Bluebird Self Storage can help. We offer the perfect storage units for keeping your travel gear organized.
Contact us online to reserve your storage unit today and start your journey without stress! We have 10 locations available for your convenience:
