The term east coast usually refers to the urbanized strip along the coast from Boston to Washington D.C., but in a broader sense includes the coast of the following states – Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and the District of Columbia. The region from southern Virginia to Georgia is considered part of the south. While the east coast is dotted with beautiful beaches, it does include several other holiday destinations. It provides opportunities for all age groups to have a good time, and a wide variety of experiences. Here are some of the best holiday destinations on the east coast.
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
When you talk of east coast vacation spots for kids, you can’t ignore the beaches. Myrtle beach is a very popular holiday destination that stretches along South Carolina’s 60-mile Grand Strand. Apart from relaxing on the beach, one can also try fishing, sailing, and surfing. This sun kissed strip of sand attracts visitors from all over the world during the summer months. The kids love it for the many amusement and water parks it has, and the adults love it for the excellent gastronomic opportunities its many restaurants offer, not to forget live entertainment! There is something for every member of the family, from museums, nature preserves, outlet shopping, to golf courses.
Brevard Zoo, Melbourne, Florida
Another great site for a family adventure is kayaking at Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, Florida. Among the options, the Wetlands Outpost Kayaking is a guided kayaking ecotour through 22 acres of restored wetlands in the nearby Merrit Island Wildlife Refuge and the Pine Island Conservation Area. You could also consider the Expedition Africa, which is a kayaking trip through a replication of the Nyami River Delta. One can get to view rhino and giraffe in their native habitat, and is an experience the whole family can enjoy, including kids as young as five.
Appalachian Trail
If you enjoy hiking, then the world famous Appalachian Trail or (Appalachian National Scenic Trail) is something you cannot miss out on. Running across 14 states, it is approximately 2,175 miles (3,500 km) long and stretches through wilderness, towns, roads, and across rivers. Hiking the entirety of the trail takes about 5 months, but one can hike a section of the trail for a holiday that allows you to connect with nature in all her splendor and revel in the great outdoors. The trail contains shelters and camping areas when one can halt overnight.
Kentucky Bluegrass Country
If you are looking for a holiday experience that is a confluence of beautiful scenery, the charm of little villages and a look back at history, this it just the thing for you. This scenic area situated in the north central part of Kentucky has a landscape dotted with green rolling hills, horses, stately mansions, and stone and wooden fencing. As you can’t spend all your time enjoying the scenic beauty of the place, your time can be filled with visits to horse farms, the ‘Kentucky Derby’ horse race, bourbon distilleries, the Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, the covered bridges and Cedar Creek Lake.
Other great option is Ohio, which has one of the largest Amish populations in the country. A visit to Yoder’s Amish Home in Holmes County, Ohio makes for interesting experience to witness the Amish way of life. Another option, Reelfoot Lake in Tennessee, is a large natural lake with a huge bird sanctuary. If you are looking for cheap east coast vacation spots, consider Coopers Rock State Forest, in West Virginia. Enjoy!
