Things to Do in New York and Beyond: 8 Days of Epic East Coast Adventures

Get set for an exhilarating adventure along the enchanting East Coast! Iconic landmarks, mouthwatering cuisine, and unforgettable experiences? Say no more with our eight-day East Coast road trip itinerary, which offers a rollercoaster of fun, food, and fantastic memories from the bright lights of New York City to the historic treasures of Washington, D.C.!

But before hitting the road, here are a few essential things to do in New York, where you’ll start your trip: 

Make sure you've secured a trusty vehicle for this epic journey. Whether it's your own car or a rental, ensure it's in tip-top shape!

Prepare your GPS or smartphone with a US East Coast map. Getting lost is always part of the adventure, but it's nice to be able to find your way back! Plus, if you’re traveling from abroad or outside your mobile network's coverage area,  consider getting a local SIM card with unlimited data. Trust us — you'll want to share those envy-inducing Instagram pics!

All set? Grab your map and get ready to rev your engines – a whirlwind tour of the most vibrant US attractions awaits!

Dive right away into the whirlwind of things to do in New York City! After settling into your hotel, head over to Battery Park for a ferry ride to Lady Liberty. Skip the queue with the Statue of Liberty Express Tour, then explore the island and soak in the views of Manhattan's iconic skyline. As the sun dips below the horizon, cruise to one of NYC's legendary neighborhoods for a delicious dinner. Greenwich Village, anyone?

Today, it's all about discovering the myriad of things to do in New York. Start your day with a visit to the sprawling greens of Central Park. Leave your car behind and embrace the city on foot! Then, hit the pedal to check off the bucket list landmarks like Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Rockefeller Center. Don't miss the Central Park Zoo or rent a rowboat for a leisurely cruise on the lake! In the evening, hit up a Broadway theater for a night of unforgettable entertainment

Wave goodbye to the city that never sleeps and hit the road to Buffalo, your gateway to the breathtaking Niagara Falls. Interested in learning about its geological wonders? A leisurely Niagara Falls walking tour with a guide will be surely right up your alley! You'll also want to experience the falls from both sides of the border, so hop on a boat ride for an up-close encounter. 

Klook Tip: To stay dry on the boat ride, grab a poncho — you'll thank us later when you’re still fit and ready to experience more things to do in New York.

Can’t leave New York without seeing them all? You’re in luck! With the Klook New York City Pass, the entire city becomes your playground. With 26 options to choose from, get access to two up to six attractions or tours for the price of one — from the Empire State Building and the One World Observatory to the Whitney and Guggenheim Museums. There’s just no running out of things to do in New York!

Embark on a seven-hour road trip from Buffalo to the historic city of Boston! Dive headfirst into the city's rich history – from its early days as an English colony to the onset of the American Revolution. Park near the beginning of the Freedom Trail, and journey through landmarks like the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere's House, and Faneuil Hall. 

Klook Tip: Before sampling clam chowder, ask locals for their favorite spot. Everyone has their secret go-to!

With so many things to do in Boston, your adventure here continues for another day! Visit the prestigious Harvard University and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Harvard Square. Then, drive over to the Charles River Esplanade for a leisurely stroll. After a day of exploring, park by the waterfront and indulge in fresh seafood at one of the city's renowned restaurants for a sumptuous post-adventure feast!

Klook Tip: Seafood by the waterfront? Rowes Wharf Sea Grille. It's a hidden gem — you’re welcome!

Next up, D.C.! Tick off your list of things to do in Washington D.C. by visiting the White House and discovering the treasures of the National Mall, home to the Lincoln Memorial Park, the Washington Monument, and a slew of Smithsonian Museums. The Smithsonian alone makes the seven-and-a-half-hour drive from Boston worth it! Need a break from driving? A hop-on hop-off bus lets you explore D.C. conveniently. Simply hop on and off the bus as you wish and explore the capital’s most iconic landmarks.

Klook Tip: Visiting the Smithsonian Museums? Prioritize your favorites — you can't see all 17 in one day!

Hop in the car for a thrilling day trip to the City of Brotherly Love — Philadelphia. Explore the historic district, including must-see spots like the Liberty Bell Center, Independence Hall, and the Betsy Ross House. And, of course, no visit to Philly is complete without savoring a legendary cheesesteak sandwich for lunch. 

Klook Tip: When it's cheesesteak time, consider trying both Pat's and Geno's — locals have been debating which is best for generations!

Short on time? Have your Washington D.C. and Philadelphia tour in one day so you don’t miss out on anything! Start at Washington D.C., and visit Lincoln Memorial, the White House, and more. After lunch, head to historic Philly, and view the Liberty Bell and the Independence Hall as you stroll through the Independence National Historical Park.

And that's a wrap on your East Coast adventure! From the dazzling lights of NYC to the collegiate charm of Boston, the political buzz of D.C., and the historical richness of Philly, you can be sure that you’ve had a taste of it all!