The east coast is a fantastic spot to visit, particularly if you have the flexibility to wander in an RV. This east coast RV vacation plan will help you find the greatest locations to visit and activities to do while traveling in your RV along the shore.
We have you covered in the plan below, whether you need to know what to do on your east coast RV vacations, where to eat, or where to stay!
Maps Of Trip
Here are two maps of the journey. The first is the first part of the journey, with a link to an interactive Google Map. The second is the trip’s second half, with a link to that interactive Google Map. You would be covering a lot of miles if you did this whole trip (we did almost this exact trip last fall – so it is doable) at one time. You might also divide it into many trips.
Google Maps interactive link: https://goo.gl/maps/iAkeKusX8GrX2XVY8
Here is the 2nd half of the trip:
Google Maps interactive link: https://goo.gl/maps/TmhSeyyUZDjYEmsU7
There are so many great family and romantic getaways in the Northeast!! Let’s get started!!
Stowe, VT
Stowe is a beautiful area that is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. Hiking, biking, and skiing are all available amid the woods. Other things to do in the area include exploring quaint towns, checking out museums, eating yummy cheese and maple syrup, enjoying craft brews, and more.
Why Stop Here?
- Cruise Highway 108
- Moss Glen Falls Hike
- Emily’s Covered Bridge
- Stowe Recreation Path
- Bingham Falls
- Mount Mansfield
- Cabot Cheese Store
- Cold Hollow Cider Press
- Smugglers’ Notch State Park
- Stowe’s Main Street
- Stowe Mountain Resort
- Trapp Family Lodge Outdoor Center
- Laughing Moon Chocolates
Where to Eat
The Backyard — In the perfect location right by Main Street, The Backyard serves up amazing drinks and delicious food. There are even vegetarian alternatives!
Where to Stay
Lone Pine Campsites — Lone Pine Campsites is a delightful campground in the heart of Vermont’s stunning nature, with full hookups, Wi-Fi, a pool, a playground, and lots of fun family activities to keep everyone happy.
Lincoln, NH
Do you want to add more gorgeous locations to your east coast RV vacation itinerary? Lincoln, New Hampshire is the ideal location for you. This spot features 23 golf courses, an old-fashioned train ride (Hobo Railroad), covered bridges, beautiful mountain views, and an incredible gorge.
This place is beautiful any time of year but is especially wonderful when the fall foliage appears. The winter activities here are also very enjoyable!
Why Stop Here?
- The Flume Gorge
- Cannon Mountain
- Kancamagus Highway
- Golf Courses
- Hobo Railroad
- White Mountain National Forest
- Alpine Adventures
- Franconia Notch State Park
- Moose Tour
- Seven Birches Winery
- Ice Castles
- Ski Resorts
- Sledventures
Where to Eat
The Common Man — This delectable restaurant delivers typical American fare with a unique twist. The Nantucket Pie is delicious, as are the crab cakes. We also like the macaroni and cheese prepared here.
Where to Stay
Crazy Horse Family Campground — Just 30 minutes from Lincoln, in the hamlet of Littleton, lies this really entertaining and family-friendly campsite. Visitors like the attentive and helpful personnel as well as the scheduled family activities. Everything is in good condition, and the full-hookup sites assure your comfort throughout your stay.
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is a must-see on every east coast RV road trip itinerary. Set on the Atlantic Ocean, this park boasts beautiful scenery, excellent bike paths, incredible sunsets, lovely lighthouses, and some super fun hikes.
What is our recommendation? Stay in or near Bar Harbor for easy access to all this amazing park has to offer.
Why Stop Here?
- Schoodic Institute and Ranger Station
- Schoodic Point
- Little Moose Island
- Tidal Falls
- Loop Road
- Cadillac Mountain
- Precipices Trail
- Thunder Hole
- Beehive Trail
- Sand Beach
- Jordan Pondhouse
- Jordan Pond Trail
- Echo Lake Beach
- Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
- Wonderland Trail
- LuLu Lobster Boat Tour
Where to Eat
The Happy Clam Shack — You can’t go to Acadia without having some seafood, and The Happy Clam Shack is the place to go for that. The lobster soup is very tasty, and nothing beats the pleasure of eating lobster!
Where to Stay
Timberland Acres RV Park — Stay just minutes from Bar Harbor and Acadia when you park your RV at Timberland Acres RV Park. This nice campground has full hookups as well as a pool, rec hall, gaming room, and playground, so you’ll have a great time even while you’re not touring the national park.
Boston, MA
Boston is a famous tourist destination for good reason. This lovely medieval city has plenty to offer. Whether you prefer theme park fun, historic sites, hidden Boston or just wandering the city and picking up a bite to eat, you’re sure to have a good time exploring Boston.
Why Stop Here?
- Freedom Trail
- Faneuil Hall Marketplace
- Boston Common
- Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum
- New England Aquarium
- Boston Museum of Science
- Boston Museum of Fine Arts
- Fenway Park
- Boston Children’s Museum
- Harvard Art Museums
- John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum
- The Paul Revere House
- Boston Harbor Islands State Park
- USS Constitution Museum
- Adams National Historical Park
Where to Eat
Cusser’s Roast Beef and Seafood This popular eatery specializes on roast beef sandwiches and lobster rolls. The roast beef sandwiches are particularly good, and their relatively low price tag makes them even more tempting!
Where to Stay
Circle CG Farm Campground Our campsite is in an ideal position, close to Cape Cod, Boston, and Providence. Campers love the peaceful vibe here, and the full hookup sites, Wi-Fi, pool, mini-golf, and nature trails make this an excellent place to stay.
Newport, RI
Newport, Rhode Island is next on our list. This quaint east coast town is known as City by the Sea, and the name isn’t the only thing that makes it appealing. You’ll not only discover beautiful houses and cute boutiques here, but you’ll also get to see some beautiful countryside and fantastic sights.
Why Stop Here?
- Bowens Wharf
- Ocean Drive
- Newport Mansions
- International Tennis Hall of Fame
- The Cliff Walk
- Redwood Library and Athenaeum
- Fort Adams State Park
- Touro Synagogue
- Brenton Point State Park
- Beaches
- Museum of Newport History
- National Museum of American Illustration
- Audrain Automobile Museum
- Rough Point Museum
- Rail Explorers
Where to Eat
Corner Cafe — If breakfast is your thing, you’ll appreciate Corner Cafe’s fantastic all-day breakfast buffet. This lovely bistro serves all of your morning favorites to perfection. Having said that, they also offer a decent assortment of speciality pizzas!
Where to Stay
Timber Creek RV Resort — This resort is around 40 minutes from town. Having said that, we believe the journey is worthwhile in exchange for the peace and quiet. There is a shop on-site, as well as clean toilets with showers, a swimming pool, a playground, and sports courts. What more could you ask for?
Mystic, CT
If we were to characterize Mystic in one word, it would have to be “picturesque.” This seaside village looks like something out of a picture, and we like it. Ships and water vistas are plentiful in Mystic, and the attractions are among the greatest in New England. This is particularly true of the Mystic Aquarium (where you may interact with beluga whales) and the Mystic Seaport Museum (where you can step back in time).
Why Stop Here?
- Mystic Seaport Museum
- Mystic Aquarium
- Downtown Mystic
- Mystic River Bascule Bridge
- Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra
- Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center
- Denison Homestead
- Barley Head Brewery
- Mystic River Watersports
- Bluff Point State Park
- Seaside Shadows
- Mystic Boat Adventures
- Argia Sailing Ship Tours
Where to Eat
Friar Tuck’s Tavern — Looking for a place to get a great beer and enjoy a lively atmosphere? You should go to Friar Tuck’s. Here, you can eat classic Irish, English, and American dishes, wash it down with a craft beer, and sometimes even enjoy some live music!
Where to Stay
Hidden Acres Family Campground — Hidden Acres Family Campsite is roughly 30 minutes from Mystic. It is an absolute gem, and thanks to amenities such as a pool, fishing area, game room, and pickleball court, it is hugely popular with camping families. You’ll love the on-site shop, nice facilities, and the choice of full hookups.
New York City, NY
During east coast RV excursions, you must, of course, visit New York City. This metropolis is renowned as the “largest city in the world” for a reason. The hustle and bustle of this place is unlike anything we’ve ever experienced, and the fact that there are so many options of things to see and do means the whole family will be happy while there.
If you can visit in the autumn and tour more of New York, you will be able to view the magnificent New York fall foliage.
Why Stop Here?
- Ellis Island
- Statue of Liberty
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Brooklyn Heights Promenade
- Central Park
- 5th Avenue Shopping
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- Rockefeller Center
- Times Square
- Broadway Shows
- 9/11 Memorial
- Wall Street and the NYSE
- Chinatown
- Little Italy
Where to Eat
Juliana’s Pizza — Need to satisfy your need for New York pizza while in town? Go to Juliana’s. This place is owned by the legendary Patsy Grimaldi of Grimaldi’s Pizza, and you can definitely tell!
Where to Stay
Black Bear Campground — Well, so this campsite is approximately an hour and a half away from New York City. That said, there is very little camping right outside of the city, and this is a great pick for day tripping to see the sights. The heated pool, game room, and playground keep the kids busy, and parents are happy to have Wi-Fi and full hookups. Of course, everyone enjoys the chance to fish as well as the many sports courts.
Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia may not be as large or as hectic as New York City, but it is an essential stop on any east coast journey. Not only does this city have historical significance, but it also has a huge number of amazing museums and some of the best food in the country. It must be experienced to be fully understood.
Why Stop Here?
- Independence Hall
- Liberty Bell
- President’s Mansion
- Constitution Center
- The Museum of the American Revolution
- The Franklin Institute of Science
- The Philadelphia Museum of Art
- Spruce Street Harbor Park
- Eastern State Penitentiary
- Elfreth’s Alley
Where to Eat
Reading Terminal Market — If you like cuisine, this may be a tiny piece of paradise for you. Here, you can check out rows upon rows of food stands and enjoy favorites such as the Philadelphia soft pretzel, Philly cheesesteak sandwiches, and of course, water ice.
Where to Stay
Echo Farms RV Resort – This park is not close to Philadelphia but it can be an option if you want to stay at a park in between Philadelphia and New Jersey. The park is really in the state of New Jersey.
Cape May, NJ
Some people may argue that Atlantic City is the place to be in New Jersey, but we happen to prefer the more laid-back and less touristy vibe of Cape May. This area offers traditional boardwalk and beach fun, historic mansions, cool little museums, and one of the cutest zoos we’ve ever seen. Indeed, Cape May is a fantastic location!
Why Stop Here?
- Cape May Beach
- Ellen Physick Estate
- Nature Center of Cape May
- Willow Creek Winery & Farm
- Cape May Point State Park
- Harriet Tubman Museum
- Washington Street
- Historic Cold Spring Village
- Cape May National Wildlife Refuge
- Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
- Morey’s Piers & Beachfront Water Parks
- World War II Lookout Tower
- Cape May County Park & Zoo
Where to Eat
Vegas Diner and Restaurant — One thing we discovered throughout our time in this region is that people in New Jersey like eateries. We went to this eatery on a whim and enjoyed it! The breakfast was excellent, and the Boston cream pie was among the greatest we’ve ever eaten.
Where to Stay
Ocean City Campground and Beach Cabins — A lovely campground with a beautiful pool and mini-golf course that kids just love, Ocean City Campground and Beach Cabins is a super place to stay. Our park is within a few minutes’ drive from all the Jersey beach has to offer, including the many Cape May activities.
Wilmington, DE
An absolutely beautiful city, Wilmington might be the biggest city in Delaware, but it really isn’t all that big. However, this is a worthwhile destination. Not only is it a very green place with an almost magical vibe, but there are also a whole lot of cool things to do here. There are museums, parks, and a fantastic riverwalk area that you will not want to miss.
Why Stop Here?
- Delaware Art Museum
- Delaware Museum of Nature and Science
- Alapocas Run State Park
- Brandywine Creek State Park
- Hagley Museum and Library
- Brandywine Zoo
- Bellevue State Park
- Delaware Children’s Museum
- DuPont Environmental Education Center
- First State National Historical Park
- The Grand Opera House
Where to Eat
El Diablo Burritos El Diablo Burritos, a build-your-own burrito establishment, puts you simply outstanding concoctions. Although the premise of this local business is similar to that of Chipotle or Qdoba, we believed the cuisine was superior to both. In addition to the conventional sodas, their soda fountain machine featured a unique range of all-natural sodas.
Where to Stay
Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay — Want to see the Delaware seaside while in Wilmington? We recommend staying at Sun Outdoors Rehoboth Bay. This park is the epitome of a premium RV resort. People love the private beach and relaxing atmosphere, and the swim-up bar is a major bonus as well.
Washington, D.C.
Why Stop Here?
- The White House Visitor Center
- The White House
- Washington Monument
- Lincoln Memorial
- Martin Luther King Monument
- Thomas Jefferson Monument
- Smithsonian Museums
- US Mint
- Shenandoah National Park (75 miles from DC, but well worth the trip!)
Where to Eat
We The Pizza — There are a few fantastic pizza spots in D.C., but this is our personal favorite. The name is catchy, the service is prompt, and the pizza is delicious. The dough was delicious, and the swirl patterns they created with the sauce on top of the pizza made for a lovely display.
Where to Stay
Greenville Farm Family Campground — A simple campground in an awesome location, Greenville Family Farm Campground is a great lodging option for anyone visiting Washington, D.C. There are full-hookup sites available, as well as clean facilities with showers. Of course, the swimming pool and playground are adored by youngsters!
Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach, the ultimate holiday spot, is the ideal place to soak up some rays by the water. Not only can you play on the beach and splash in the waves, but the city also includes parks, museums, gardens, and other amazing attractions. Of course, you’ll want to drive via the famed Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, which enables you to drive your automobile under the sea!
Why Stop Here?
- Beaches
- Virginia Beach Boardwalk
- First Landing State Park
- Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center
- Norfolk Botanical Garden
- Military Aviation Museum
- False Cape State Park
- Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge
- Cape Henry Lighthouse
- Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
- Virginia Museum of Contemporary Arts
- Mount Trashmore Park
- Ocean Breeze Waterpark
- Virginia Beach Surf & Rescue Museum
- Ferry Plantation House
- Children’s Museum of Virginia
- The Thoroughgood House
Where to Eat
Doc Taylor’s Restauran t — Searching for a low-cost, great meal? Doc Taylor’s Restaurant is here to help! This yummy diner may be a hole in the wall, but they really know how to cook. They are known for their delicious Eggs Benedict, but pretty much anything from the breakfast menu is sure to please.
Where to Stay
Holiday Trav-L-Park — Your stay at this Virginia Beach park includes complimentary beach parking! You’ll also have a lovely full-hookup site and access to amenities such as an RV wash, dog park, pool, game room, mini-golf course, and more.
Outer Banks, NC
While planning east coast RV excursions, you will undoubtedly need to stop in North Carolina. What better spot to do so than than the Outer Banks? The barrier islands of the Outer Banks are an ideal spot to unwind for a bit. The lighthouses, wild horses, and natural beauty of the place can make you feel like you’ve moved to another world entirely, and we’re certain you’ll leave the place feeling rejuvenated and ready for the next stop.
Why Stop Here?
- Wild Horses
- Lighthouses
- Jockey’s Ridge State Park
- Wright Brothers National Memorial
- North Carolina Aquarium on Roanoke Island
- Monument to a Century of Flight
- Sandy Run Park
- Springer’s Point Preserve
- Elizabethan Gardens
- Nags Head Woods Preserve
- The Lost Colony
- Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education
Where to Eat
Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop – Sometimes all you want is a basic sandwich. Poor Richard’s Sandwich Shop in Manteo is the spot to go when that desire hits. Their Italian sub is delicious, and their artichoke pasta salad is among the finest in town!
Where to Stay
Frisco Woods Campground — Frisco Woods Campground, located in the Cape Hatteras National Seashore, is an ideal site to stay while visiting the Outer Banks. Here, you’ll find full-hookup, big-rig-friendly sites and amenities such as Wi-Fi, cable TV, an onsite store, a playground and pool, and more. Of course, the fact that this is a beachfront park adds to its allure!
Charleston, SC
An adorable city with a special southern charm, Charleston is an excellent example of what South Carolina has to offer the world. The cobblestone streets, horse-drawn carriages, and pastel antebellum houses take you back to a bygone era. Visit one of the old buildings, the historic forts, or the aquarium. You’ll have a terrific time whatever you do here.
Why Stop Here?
- National Historic Parks of Fort Sumter and Fort Moultrie
- Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site
- Charles Pinckney National Historic Site
- Angel Oak Tree
- Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
- Historic Charleston City Market
- South Carolina Aquarium
- Coyne Hall Plantation and Gardens
- Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum
- Joe Riley Waterfront Park
- Middleton Place
- The Charleston Museum
- Gibbes Museum of Art
Where to Eat
Home Team BBQ — Barbecue is a delicious treat that we like to enjoy once in a while, so when we saw Home Team BBQ right by where we happened to be at dinnertime, we had to give it a try. That was fantastic! We like everything we tasted, but the pulled pork and tater tots were our favorites!
Where to Stay
Lake Aire RV Park and Campground Lake Aire RV Park and Campground is a terrific accommodation option located about 15 minutes from Charleston. This park not only has a beautiful location, but it also has full hookup sites, clean bathhouses, and a laundry area. Of course, facilities like a pool and a playground are excellent as well!
Savannah, GA
Savannah, like Wilmington, has an almost mystical quality about it. It’s a southern city if there ever was one, and the ancient charm and Spanish moss seen around every corner are delightful. In addition, the city has a number of fantastic excursions, activities, and cuisine stops that should not be missed. Oh, and Tybee Island is ideal for a day at the beach!
Why Stop Here?
- Old Town Trolley Tour
- Savannah Belles Ferry
- Tybee Island Segway Tour
- Tybee Island Dolphin Tour
- The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist
- Forsyth Park
- River Street
- Georgia State Railroad Museum
- Girl Scout First Headquarters
- Oatland Island Wildlife Center
- Jepson Center
- Savannah Children’s Museum
- Historic Civil War Homes
Where to Eat
Maple Street Biscuit Company — Everyone knows that biscuits are a southern food, so it only makes sense that the best biscuit ever would be found in the southern city of Savannah. That’s right, we believe Maple Street Biscuit Company makes the greatest biscuits in the world, and their biscuit sandwiches are out of this world.
Where to Stay
Red Gate Campground & RV Park — Red Gate Campsite & RV Park, a big-rig-friendly facility, is the ideal home base for anybody looking to explore Savannah. This campground has everything you need to be comfortable, including Wi-Fi, hookups, an RV wash, a swimming pool, and more.
Augustine, FL
Another city with some incredible history behind it and a good amount of that lovely Spanish moss, St. Augustine is the final stop on our itinerary. Given that this is the oldest city in the United States, it should come as no surprise that it is rich in historical sites. Not only that, but the area is rich with tourist attractions that you’re sure to enjoy.
Why Stop Here?
- Alligator Farm
- Marineland Dolphin Adventure
- The Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park
- Colonial Quarter
- Castillo De San Marcos National Monument
- St. Augustine Beach
- Old Town Trolley
- Pirate Museum
- Ghost Tours
- History and Architecture
Where to Eat
Sunset Grille — We liked this restaurant because of its proximity to St. Augustine Beach. The ocean breeze, while we ate, was amazing, and the chowder fries were absolutely delicious.
Where to Stay
St. Augustine RV Resort — St. Augustine, located right off I-95, is an ideal destination. Daytona Beach, for example, is a neighboring attraction to St. Augustine. Large full-hookup sites are perfect for any size rig, and the Wi-Fi, cable TV, laundry room, and clean restrooms help ensure you’re comfortable during your stay.
There you have it, an awesome east coast RV trip itinerary that ensures you see all the best places the east coast has to offer. You can’t go wrong with this itinerary for east coast RV travels (and giving it some of your own personal touches). What exactly are you waiting for? Go out there and discover!
Related Questions
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Does Google Maps have an RV setting?
The RV Life app offers RV safe GPS, an RV Maintenance Tracker with notifications, park ratings, and more. Search for campgrounds as you drive down the road using the same filters in the computer RVT version: park type, hookups, amenities, big rig friendly, pet friendly, etc.
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Where should I go on my first RV trip?
Camp Close to Home for Your First Few Trips
For your first few vacations, choose campsites near to home. This will give you confidence as you learn how to use your new setup. Likewise, deciding what to store in your RV takes a few trips. -
What is the best RV travel map?
Google Maps (Android and iOS) is by far the greatest free choice. This app allows you to add stops, avoid tolls, and much more. Nevertheless, Google Maps was not designed with large trucks in mind. Therefore, you may want to crosscheck any route it gives with a truck atlas or RV-specific route planner.
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What is the cheapest way to travel in an RV?
When you’re RVing on a budget, these expenses may rapidly mount up. The cheapest way to camp is by boondocking, which is also known as “dry camping” without electricity or water hookups. Boondocking RV sites are usually on public property and are either extremely cheap or absolutely free.