Growing up on the north shore of Massachusetts, I’m a sucker for a scenic view and nice place to swim. State and National Parks, the coastline, rivers and valleys -- you name it. Anywhere that will take my breath away, I’m in for the road trip (and for the photo op, of course). Here is a compilation of some natural and scenic must-sees along the east coast states.
Acadia National Park, Maine
Starting in the most eastern of the United States, Acadia National Park is home to many hidden treasures, including the famous Bar Harbor and Mt. Desert Island. Recognized as the 3rd oldest National Park east of the Mississippi, Acadia’s awe-instilling scenery is one you will not want to miss.
The Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire
Cutting through the White Mountain National Forest, the Kancamagus is best known for its fall foliage and its mountainous landscape. However, for our summer road trip, there are rivers and waterfalls running parallel to the highway, making it perfect for a swim and a picnic.
Cape Ann, Massachusetts
One of the best things about New England is all the granite and its hundreds of miles of rocky beaches. Cape Ann in Northern Ma. also has hundreds of granite quarries filled with over 250 feet of fresh water, making it the best place for a deep dive on a hot day.
Charles Island (A.K.A. Thrice-Cursed Island), Milford, Connecticut
Only accessible by a sandbar at low tide, Charles Island has been supposedly “cursed” by its settlers since the early 17th century. Not only is this site rich in history, but stories claim it may also be hiding a buried treasure beneath its surface.
WaterFire, Providence, Rhode Island
On the more touristy side of our road trip is WaterFire, a public and permanent installation to the Woonasquatucket River in Providence. Created in 1994, WaterFire represents the solidarity of a community and brings in an average attendance of 40,000.
Bannerman’s Castle, Pollepel Island, New York
Built in 1901 by a man named Frank Bannerman, this site was used for the storage of ammunition during World War I. Overtime, the castle has become ruinous -- making it the perfect for the location for plenty of ghost stories.
Great Falls of the Passaic River, Paterson, New Jersey
Though some may refer to it as the "armpit of America," do not underestimate the Garden State! The Passaic River has been protecting the quality of New Jersey's water for years, as well as being home to an enormous and historic waterfall.
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
Famous for its pristine coastline and silky sand, Rehoboth Beach is the go-to place for Delawareans in the summertime. With the hustle and bustle of the board walk, and the founding spot of Grotto’s Pizza, you’ll never want to leave.
Assateague Island, Maryland
Or better known as the island that is inhabited by wild horses! It’s suspected that these horses were brought to the island in the 17th century by landowners, but since then, they have become island natives. Unfortunately, the horses are protected by the National Park Service and can only be viewed from a distance… but still awesome!
The Devil’s Bathtub, Duffield, Virginia
1.5 miles into hiking the extremely challenging Devil’s Loop Trail in Virginia, one can cool off in this gorgeous pool of blue-green fresh water. What better way to reward yourself?
Outer Banks Scenic Byway, North Carolina
Passing through tidal marshes, sandy dunes, and isolated beaches, the Outer Banks Scenic Byway is one of the nation’s most unique coastal landscapes. Enjoy the sound of the sea and maybe stop at one of the two wildlife conservations, Pea Island or Cedar Island, along the way.
Angel Oak, Johns Island, South Carolina
Estimated to be up to 1,500 years old, Angel Oak is one of the nation’s oldest trees. Tourists come from far and wide to see this unique tree, whose branches measure up to 187 feet in length.
Providence Canyon, Lumpkin, Georgia
For those of you who, like me, have never been so lucky as to visit the west coast, maybe you don’t have to go as far as you would think. Known as Georgia’s “Little Grand Canyon,” this state park is open daily to hikers looking for a sweet adventure.
Ichetucknee Springs, Fort White, Florida
Last, but not least on our list! Best known for its crystal clean water, Ichetucknee Springs National Park is the perfect place to be carefree! Visitors can enjoy tubing, canoeing, and snorkeling while being pulled along by the gentle current of the river. Sounds relaxing to me.
