Among the long list of activities atop every college student's "before-I-graduate" bucket list is "to take a road trip" - an amazing road trip, no less. For all our upper East-Coasters (sorry, terrible "Gossip Girl" pun), I've developed a must-visit list. Based on my own previous trips and explorations, I bring to you: 13 Stops Along the Ultimate East Coast Road Trip.
1. Niagara Falls, NY/Canada
If you have a valid passport on you while you’re at the falls, you can take that leap and cross the border to Canada! Talk about a crazy trip with the girls. Experience the falls from two separate countries, roaming the streets and the adorably touristy shops of the area as well.
2. Charleston, SC
No market in the country compares to Charleston’s City Market. The gorgeous buildings, historic tiled mosaics, and rain-forest humidity, embody the beautiful essence of Charleston. Amid the market you can find local vendors weaving roses from palm leaves, comfort-color T-shirts, and beautifully handcrafted jewelry. The knick-knacks and refrigerator magnets will be scattered among the thousand-dollar paintings and stained-glass window art. Live music on the street corners and smells of local cuisines will fill the aroma of the market – it’s an experience far from the ordinary and well worth the stop on your East Coast road trip.
3. New York City, NY
Top of the Rock, NBC Studios, Empire State Building, Central Park, Statue of Liberty – just stop me when you lose track of all the incredible places to explore in this stately town.
4. Blue Ridge Parkway
Whether you’re hiking, driving or simply stopping at a lookout point – there’s no scenic route quite like this one. You’ll want to ensure someone has a camera on them when you breathe in the beautiful colors of spring, summer, fall or winter along this crazy passage. And while you're at it, toss a pair of Bean Boots in the trunk - just for good measure.
5. Washington D.C.
The National Zoological Park is one of the many amazing stops to explore in D.C. Walk the streets of the nation’s capital while taking in the captivating cuteness of a giant panda. And don’t forget the key chain commemorating the heart-felt moment on your way out.
6. Atlanta, GA
The World of Coca-Cola sits amid the beautiful city of Atlanta, surely a stop for the books. What better way to toast the trip than with a Coke from this noteworthy museum along the way?
7. Hershey, PA
Who wouldn’t want to explore to "the sweetest place on earth" with a group of their closest friends? Chocolate World is teeming at the brim with candies and chocolates galore; and located oh so conveniently to the direct left of Chocolate World is Hershey’s own, Hershey Park. Explore the nationally recognized amusement park while sporting your 10-pound bag of chocolate from the gift shop.
8. Boston, MA
Boston houses heaps of exceptional restaurants with a genuine affection for their locals, and the intrigued tourists. With a population of just 650,000 (in contrast to New York City’s 8.4 million), this city packs a lot of heart and history into an authentic, beloved and smaller area. Tour the slew of prestigious colleges, or celebrate your love for Major League Baseball with a trip to the famed Fenway Park to see the Green Monster. Regardless, I can guarantee your group will be taken by the city’s charm. It’s wicked awesum.
9. Outer Banks, NC
Beach, beach and more beach. Outer Banks is the perfect spot to sit back with a stack of your seven favorite books, lounge in a beach chair, and get your floppy-hat-game on. The chill vibes and local beach restaurants will you have walking away feeling relaxed, tan and ready to write your own Nicholas Sparks book. This is the perfect place to be when you’re looking for a night to unwind with the girls and fall asleep to the sound of the crashing waves.
10. Orlando, FL
Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, SeaWorld – need I continue with this explanation?
11. Williamsburg, VA
Busch Gardens is the place to be when it comes to Virginia’s theme parks. In addition to Busch Gardens’ ‘Most Beautiful Park’ title, you can expect to enjoy a plethora of uniquely constructed roller coasters, a jaw-dropping drop tower, and multiple European cultures’ music and food. Not a bad stop for the day.
12. Jersey Shore, NJ
“Ayyyye, looks like we got a situation!” What’s not to love? The beach, the boardwalk and the nationally-recognized, TV show film spot bring in thousands throughout the year – what’s stopping you all from joining in on the fun? Embrace your inner Snooki and explore the shore for yourself.
13. Baltimore, MD
A great place for exploring with any group of friends, Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the place to be in Baltimore. The harbor offers an insane, multiple-story Barnes and Noble seated comfortably next to the prominent beast of a guitar that sits atop the notably recognized Hard Rock Café. Scattered amid the other shops you can expect to see names such as Forever 21 and Urban Outfitters, as well as some local boutiques. All of these shops and restaurants encompass the beautiful water view that is Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. While you’re there, don’t forget to stop by Camden Yards for a day game – Let’s Go O’s!
