Sometimes the city feels like a big place. The stress of work, the anxiety of social commitments and the approaching holidays can be overwhelming. However, you can get away easier than you might think. A short drive can replace those cityscapes with quaint towns and beautiful valleys. Here’s a look at a few of the best road trip destinations on the East Coast. Before you set out, be sure you know the rules of the road in the states you plan to visit. Certain states may have slightly different traffic laws and you don’t want your getaway ruined by tickets.
Charleston, South Carolina
This eastern coastal town is a scenic lookout point on South Channel and Charleston Bay. Enjoy the waterfront park, the Battery and White Point Gardens, or the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Later, take a walking tour through historical parts of the town. If you crave the buck and pull of the bay, take a boat tour for a beautiful view of the town. Check out the Middleton Place estate and the historic churches for some local history.
Mount Airy, North Carolina
Mount Airy is commonly overlooked as a destination, but look a little closer and you’ll find a homey town with a plethora of possibilities. Take a boat tour on the Cape Fear River, or take a day or twilight zipline canopy tour. If you have a taste for whiskey, take a tour of the the Mayberry Spirits distillery, which is situated at the base of the Blue Ridge Mountains. In the winter take a ski trip at the Wolf Ridge Ski Resort, or if the weather holds nicely, take a Ferrari or Lamborghini driving experience from the Motorsports Lab.
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Savannah, Georgia
Savannah is the home of historical churches and estates, as well as creepy cemeteries and ghost tours. Not only are there walking tours, but walking ghost and vampire tours are offered at night. Make your way into dusty crypts, old mansions and through vine-covered cemeteries for some scares. The next day treat yourself at the Olde Pink House, a cellar for wine tasting. For some American history visit Old Fort Jackson, and after a full day, walk scenic River Street for some great views of town.
St. Augustine, Florida
Right down 95 from Jacksonville, St. Augustine is a scenic coastal town with the warmth of Florida. Aviles Street offers a host of art galleries, quaint shops and outdoor cafes. This cobblestone street dates all the way back to 1573. The Lightner Museum holds a collection of artifacts from 19th-century life, however, the courtyard and pond is by far the most unique feature of the museum. Filled with huge Koi fish, take a break from the hustle of the town and a busy schedule and enjoy the unique courtyard as you feed the fish. At night take a tour of the San Sebastian Winery. This unique winery is located in an old railway building on King Street.
The Hudson Valley, New York
While New York is generally best known for the city of Manhattan, the Hudson Valley is a beautiful getaway from the big city. The walkway over the Hudson provides views, especially in the fall when the leaves change colors. The Minnewaska State Park Preserve showcases nice nature walks and more staggering views of the river valley.
