18 Amazing East Coast Cities that Make History Fun

Massachusetts

The state of Massachusetts is the most populous state in New England’s region. It is also the home of Plymouth, where the Pilgrims established the second American colony in 1607. Massachusetts played many roles in famous historical events such as the American Revolutionary War and the hysteria of the infamous Salem Witch Trials.

Boston, MA

Boston: Everyone knows the famous story of the Boston Tea Party. Founded in 1630, Boston boasts the title of being one of the oldest cities in the country. The tourism of the area is booming, allowing guests to celebrate the history of this colonial city. Visitors can enjoy the Boston Total Experience, take one of the Spirit of Boston Cruises, or embrace their inner foodie on the Taste of Boston Downtown Crossing. There are plenty of great lodging options available to you as well, making your vacation comfortable and memorable.

Salem, MA

Perhaps one of the most infamous cities in the country, Salem, MA has seen a dark history. While it is home to adventures that delve into this past such as the Witch House and the Salem Witch Museum, there are some modern tourism options available as well. Visit the Peabody Essex Museum to enjoy fine art and the creative side of Salem before checking out exciting activities such as the Sunset Sail Salem or a walk on Winter Island Park.

New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a historic city with unique ties to the original 13 colonies. In fact, it holds the title of being the first place for many institutions, including the very first public library and the first state to offer up a lottery program. As well as being one of the original colonies, it also is home to many historic and fun attractions that can be enjoyed on your next East Coast getaway. Check out these cities!

Concord, NH

This gorgeous city is the capital of New Hampshire. It is known for its stunning scenery, historical significance, and community-driven atmosphere. Some of the great activities that are available in Concord include shows at the Capital Center for the Arts, gorgeous hiking endeavors at the Susan N McLane Audubon Center and Silk Farm Wildlife Sanctuary, and water sports along the sparkling Bear Brook.Visitors of all ages will also enjoy learning about science at the McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center, which features planetarium shows, traveling exhibits, and learning events.

North Conway, NH

Looking for a way to appreciate the scenery and history of New Hampshire in one place? Vacation to the gorgeous city of North Conway, NH. Here, visitors will be greeted with stunning views of Mt Washington which offers up everything from skiing ventures at Cranmore Mountain Resort to hiking expeditions. Guests can also choose to ride the Conway Scenic Railroad, visit Mt Washington Observatory Weather Discovery Center, or visit the quirky fairy tale-themed Story Land theme park.

Maryland

This gorgeous bayside state is home to many unique endeavors and features that make it recognizable. Historically, this state has seen many Revolutionary War events as well as history-changing successes such as having the very first railroad station in Baltimore’s Mount Clare Station. Of course, you can also find delicious seafood and some awesome sightseeing opportunities too, making it a great option for those wishing to embark upon a coastal trip.

Baltimore, MD

With the biggest population in the state, there are so many awesome things going on all the time in Baltimore, MD. Get out on the stunning water with the Baltimore Harbor Cruises, travel back to the days of knights and sword fights at Medieval Times, or learn about marine life at the National Aquarium. Of course, there are options for those who are interested in getting out and enjoying the fresh air. Baltimore is home to an astounding park acreage of 6,000, waterfront adventures, and fishing galore.

Annapolis, MD

Annapolis is the capital city of Maryland. It is located on the beloved Chesapeake Bay, making it a fun place to go for those who enjoy maritime fun. Sandy Point State Park also offers recreational activities from fishing to beachside activities, boat rentals, crabbing, and more. Downtown is home to a variety of local shops and boutiques offering up handmade wares and art; and there are tons of great options for dining such as the locally-loved Severn Inn which features bay views or Carrol’s Creek Cafe.

Vermont

Vermont is arguably the most beautiful state in the entire country. This gorgeous northeastern state features a stunning landscape from mountain tops to lush forests. Because of this, it is a popular place to visit during the fall for its stunning autumn foliage. Vermont is known for being an independent state during the American Revolution and for being the very first state to have abolished slavery.

Montpelier, VT

Although Montpelier is the least-populous capital city in the entire United States, there is plenty to do! Explore Vermont’s unique history at the Vermont Historical Society Museum, go hiking at Hubbard Park, or visit North Branch Nature Center to enjoy the natural landscape. Be sure to try some of the famous maple syrup from Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks or catch a show at the Lost Nation Theater.

Ludlow, VT

Although Ludlow only has a population of nearly 2,000 people, it is a popular destination in Vermont. This village is home to Okemo Mountain ski resort which offers up some great slopes and skiing opportunities. Visitors can also ski at Jackson Gore Road, go camping or fishing at Camp Plymouth State Park, get some awesome photos of Buttermilk Falls. When you work up an appetite from all of your adventures, grab a bite to eat at one of the local restaurants such as Stemwinder or Mr. Darcy’s Bar & Grill.

Connecticut

This progressive state is not only one of the original thirteen colonies, but it is credited at being the state that created the very first American constitution. As such, it is sometimes given the nickname of the “Constitution State”. As it shaped the history of America’s division from Great British rule, the state was responsible for heavily influencing the formation of today’s current federal government. There are plenty of reasons, both historic and recreational, to visit!

Hartford, CT

Capital of Connecticut, Hartford is home to many different educational activities. Visitors can experience literature at the Mark Twain House & Museum, visit the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of art to appreciate artistic wonder, or learn something new at the Connecticut Science Center, which features hands-on exhibits for all ages. Some more thrilling adventures in the area include scavenger hunts, hot air balloon rides, and walking tours through the city. Hartford is also home to some awesome shopping and dining opportunities, especially in its historic downtown area.

New Haven, CT

Home to the Ivy League college, Yale University, New Haven is a popular place to visit not only for educational purposes but for fun too. Yale features several art galleries and guests can also visit the Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library which displays the original Gutenberg Bible and books published in the 1400s. The city is also home to the Peabody Museum of Natural History. Be sure to check out the scenic views at East Rock Park or grab a bite to eat at Shell & Bones Oyster Bar & Grill.

Rhode Island

Perhaps the most important colony of all, Rhode Island was the very first establishment to formally announce their separation from British rule. It is nicknamed the “Ocean State” and as such, it is a popular place to visit if you enjoy coastal getaways and seaside village vibes during your vacation.

Providence, RI

This city is not only the capital of Rhode Island, but some consider it a capital of education as well. It is home to not only the Ivy League Brown University but also the RISD Museum, which is one of the most notable art exhibitions in the US. Visitors with kiddos will enjoy the Providence Children’s Museum which features interactive displays to spark creativity and nurture learning. Guests can experience the famous WaterFire Boat Rides, visit some of the sandy beaches and do some shoreline exploring, or learn about the animals at Roger Williams Park Zoo.

Newport, RI

This historic coastal city is home to a wide variety of unique things to do and see. Those who are interested in the historic aspect of Newport can head to Fort Adams, the Newport Art Museum, the Redwood Library and Athenaeum, or the historic mansions that line the streets. Beaches are also a popular draw to the city, as they offer fun recreation and gorgeous scenery. Newport also offers unique vineyard experiences as well as local dining such as The Dining Room at Castle Hill Inn and White Horse Tavern.

New York

You really cannot talk about the East Coast without mentioning New York. Not only is it home to the Big Apple, but New York has an expansive history and offers up tons of modern fun for those looking to create awesome vacation memories. Home to Niagara Falls, the Finger Lakes, and Adirondack State Park, this state is so much more than meets the eye.

Albany, NY

Contrary to popular belief, NYC is not the capital of the state. That honor belongs to the city of Albany, which is home to a variety of tourism opportunities that draw in visitors and locals alike. Albany is an impressive 400 years old, and visitors can explore its rich history with attractions such as Schuyler Mansion State Historic Site, the USS Slater, the New York State Museum, and the Albany Institute of History and Art. Once you work up an appetite from your adventuring, be sure to head down to Lark Street where you can browse various boutiques and try some of the local eateries.

New York City, NY

Obviously, NYC is the most popular city in the country. It is home to iconic places such as Broadway, Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, and more. Embark upon one of the great activities in the area to make the most out of your adventure. Enjoy a Central Park Bike Rental, New York Sightseeing Cruises, NY Sightseeing Tours, NY Water Taxi, professional sports, and more. There are so many unique things to see and do in the “city that never sleeps”, so you are sure to find something amazing!

Pennsylvania

Home to Amish Country, the Appalachian Mountains, and Lake Erie , Pennsylvania is a gorgeous state. There are so many things to do, whether you want to explore history (it was one of the original 13 colonies) or take a modern adventure to some of the thrill spots in the state!

Philadelphia, PA

Head to the “City of Brotherly Love” for a great getaway! Philadelphia is the largest city in Pennsylvania and perhaps the most historic. Not only is it home to the famous Liberty Bell, but guests can explore the fine arts and culture at the Philadelphia Art Museum, or even visit the supposedly haunted Eastern State Penitentiary. Learn something new at the Franklin Institute through hands-on exhibits or visit with the 1300+ animals housed at the Philadelphia Zoo. If you visit in August, head to Old Pool Farm for the Philadelphia Folk Festival!

Hershey, PA

Milton Hershey completely revolutionized the chocolate industry, creating the most iconic candy brand in the world right in Hershey, PA. As such, it only seems appropriate that the aptly named Hershey, PA is full of sweet things to do! Head to the famous Hershey Park to experience thrill rides, live shows, and tons of fun for the entire family. Visit Hershey’s Chocolate World, Hershey Gardens, Zoomerica, and the AACA Museum just to name a few. You can even get a chocolate-themed spa treatment at the Hershey Resort! You can’t visit Hershey without sampling some of the iconic candy, so treat your sweet tooth after dining at local eateries such as Hershey Grill, Iberian Lounge, and Devon Seafood & Steak.

Virginia

Expanding along both the towering Appalachian Mountains and the sparkling Chesapeake Bay, the state of Virginia is a stunning one. It is bordered by the Atlantic Coast, offering everything from beaches to historic landmarks within its beloved cities.

Richmond, VA

Richmond is a bustling city as well as the capital of Virginia. While here, guests can explore one of the oldest cities in the country and see historic sites such as where the “Give me liberty or give me death” declaration was made. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden, Maymont estate, and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts are just a few of the awesome sites available for visiting. Guests who want to see and experience the city can also choose to embark upon River City Food Tours, the Historic Landmark Trolley Tour, and more!

Norfolk, VA

Head to the Virginia city of Norfolk to explore waterfront fun with historic flair. Learn about maritime history at the Nauticus museum, visit the Virginia Zoo to learn about earth’s creatures, take a stroll along Norfolk Botanical Garden’s gorgeous collection of floral wonders, and experience the wonderful masterpieces at the Chrysler Museum of Art.