If you’ve ever driven on I-95, you know it’s not the most scenic route for a road trip. You could take the express route all the way from New York City to Washington, D.C., but what’s the fun in that? Instead, trade highways for byways and explore the historic cities and scenic countryside along the way.
As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.
Start: New York City
Begin your East Coast road trip in the Big Apple. Walk the High Line to see public art installations, urban gardens, and city views from a converted rail line or stroll through Liberty Park, an elevated park that gives you a panoramic view of the National September 11 Memorial.
Philadelphia
Hop off the highway in the City of Brotherly Love. Head to the National Constitution Center where you can follow the campaign trail from start to finish and see how the political process has evolved.
Got you fill of politics? Blow off some steam along the city’s Schuylkill Banks Boardwalk, a riverfront path with picturesque skyline views.
Afterwards, grab a cheesesteak from Geno’s Steaks or Pat’s King of Steaks – the iconic eateries are across the street from one another and have led Philly’s foodie rivalry for decades. But know the lingo before you order. Do you want one whiz wit (with cheese whiz) or without?
Wilmington, Delaware
From Philly, take a detour through the beautiful Brandywine Valley as you continue south to Wilmington. Sip local vintages on the Brandywine Valley Wine Trail, take a stroll through Longwood Gardens, and tour the DuPont family estates, like Nemours Estate and the Hagley Museum and Library.
Once you reach Wilmington, ditch the car for a bit. The city’s downtown is best explored by foot. Follow Market Street to the riverwalk, where you can take in a minor league baseball game or settle in for some serious people-watching and good eats at the numerous restaurants.
Annapolis, MD
Continue your scenic drive through Maryland’s Eastern Shore to Annapolis.
The best way to explore Maryland’s historic capital city is from the water — charter a yacht, learn to sail, or give paddleboarding a try. Then stretch your sea legs on a tour of the U.S. Naval Academy — just don’t forget your I.D. when you visit “the yard.”
For lunch, order a crabcake sandwich at Chick & Ruths Delly. Only Maryland’s Eastern Shore does this sandwich truly right.
End: Washington, D.C.
Finish your trip in the nation’s capital. While Washington’s best known as a political town, there’s more to it than just votes and bills. Fabulous dining and nightlife corridors stretch into all quadrants of the city.
Make sure you spend some time off the tourist circuit to explore vibrant neighborhoods like U Street (grab a drink at one of dozens of eclectic bars) and H Street NE (shop local at Maketto, a foodie-fashion fusion market).
Itching to see the monuments on the National Mall? If it’s hot out, skip the standard sweaty tourist walk and do your sightseeing with a drink in hand at one of the city’s popular rooftop bars.
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