Best Eastern United States Vacation Spots for Families

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Do you like to hike? It's one of the top free things to do in Sevierville, TN
Hikers are rewarded with these views in Smoky Mountain National Park. Photo credit: NPS

Itching to travel but don’t know where to go? Here are the top spots in the eastern United States for families. Some are well known. Others are true hidden gems. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing, uncrowded stretch of beach or plenty of kid-friendly attractions for fun-filled days, here are the top places to go.

11 Best Places to Travel in the Eastern United States

From quick weekend getaways with the family to multi-day road trips, get ready to pack your bags for our top vacation destinations to travel in the eastern United States. And we’ve even included our insider SheBuysTravel tips to make the most of these travel destinations.

NYC skyline from FDR Four Freedoms State Park on Roosevelt Island. Photo credit: Judy Antell

1. New York City, New York

New York City offers families a lifetime of experiences with some of the best museums in the US. Find history and National Park Service sites hidden among the bright lights of Times Square. Even with only a long weekend, families can climb up the Statue of Liberty, see a Broadway show, explore Central Park and spot Van Gogh’s Starry Night.

Finding a NYC hotel room is no biggie, from five-star luxury to a hostel for students, New York City has it all. And don’t forget the food trucks and trolleys on most corners so feeding the kids comes easy.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Buy a MetroCard and ride the NYC subway like a local. With maps in every subway station and each subway car, learning to ride the rails will take only a few times. Just remember if you’re traveling uptown or downtown.

what are some recommended fly fishing destinations for family travel like Primland
An aerial view of the magnificent Primland resort. Photo credit: Primland

2. Dan, Virginia

The Primland-Meadows of Dan, Virginia is the place for fly fishing. You will literally fish waters few have ever fished, which are very protected.  Located in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, The Primland ranks high on our list due to the exclusiveness of their property.  From the spa and hiking to off-road adventures, there is something for everyone. The food is delicious and the lodging top notch.

SheBuysTravel Tip: What really makes Primland special is the land. You have your own 12,000-acre playground that is diverse and secluded. We suggest booking a package that meets all your needs.

The Pit in Raleigh knows how to do North Carolina BBQ.
The Pit in Raleigh knows how to do North Carolina BBQ. Photo credit: Kendra Pierson

3. Raleigh, North Carolina

Raleigh, NC offers so many family-friendly things to do, yet it’s also affordable to visit and live. With easy access from several airports, it even offers plenty of international flights for the business traveler parents. For the arts family, choose from several free museums that of child-focused programs. Foodies will be right at home with a rising food scene.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Explore the outdoors. Jordan Lake has regular bald eagle sightings – not a common experience 30 minutes outside of a city.

trip planner for road trip ideas in the south trip planner Charleston City Market
Charleston City Market is a great place to experience culture. Photo credit: Sarah Gilliland

4. Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina prides itself on being one of the oldest cities in America. With so much history to explore, it is next to impossible to do it all in a weekend.My family visits Charleston at least once a year, and we are always discovering something new and exciting to do. From the beaches to the museums to the downtown tours, her family always has plenty to keep us occupied (yes, even the kids). They love Charleston because of its rich history, vibrant architecture and fantastic food scene.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Make sure you visit during different seasons! There are many different festivals and cultural celebrations, and each one is unique and beautiful.

Use tips and tricks to get the most out of our first visit to Disney World.
It’s incredible to stand under this iconic ride at Epcot in Walt Disney World. Photo credit: Breeze Leonard

5. Orlando, Florida

There’s a lot to love in Orlando, Florida. Of course, there is the always popular theme parks of Walt Disney World, Disney Springs, Universal Studios, LEGOLAND Florida and SeaWorld Orlando and these are perhaps the best family vacations. Ever. But outside of the Florida parks, discover shopping, tasty eats, adventure, relaxation and family fun! From beaches to art walks and museums, take time to visit Orlando.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  Explore and experience more with these tips: 1-day in Orlando, 2-day itinerary in Orlando, and free things to do in Orlando.

trip planner for road trip ideas in the south trip planner Sanibel Island boat tours
The Sanibel Thriller speed boat tour brings out friendly dolphins to play in its wake. Photo credit: Jenn Mitchell

6. Sanibel and Captiva Islands, Florida

Just off the Gulf coast of Florida, you’ll find two beautiful islands surrounded by some of the most beautiful beaches in the US. These islands are a great option if you want to avoid busy theme parks and spring break crowds. While Sanibel and Captiva Islands may have a more relaxed atmosphere, there is far more to do than sunbathing and sipping umbrella drinks. These islands provide excellent activity choices for families looking for a bit of adventure while on vacation. On these islands, you’ll want to ditch the car, to walk, bike, parasail, and much more!

SheBuysTravel Tip: For a great place to watch the sunset and grab a good family meal, check out the Mucky Duck at the end of Captiva Island.

Situated in eastern Tennessee, Gatlinburg is known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. 
Situated in eastern Tennessee, Gatlinburg is known as the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Photo credit: Caroline Knowles

7. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg, Tennessee is the perfect place for multi-generational travel, romantic getaways (or honeymoons), as well as family vacations.

With over 150 different maintained trails within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park (over 800 miles), this is paradise for the outdoorsy. Spend the day hiking, rafting or viewing the beautiful scenery. Drive through the beautiful Cades Cove and get up close and personal with the wildlife.

Not a fan of the great outdoors? You have plenty of options in town to keep you busy. Spend the day at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies, tour the Hollywood Star Cars Museum and Ripley’s Believe it or Not. If you’re over 21, tour the amazing Ole Smoky Distillery and sample their many different flavors of moonshine. Make sure to take the aerial tram to the top of the mountain and spend the day at Ober Gatlinburg.

Visiting in the winter? Try your hand at their many different snow activities (skiing, tubing, snowboarding and ice skating). If you’re not afraid of heights, ride the Gatlinburg Ski Lift or go to the top of the Gatlinburg Space Needle for the most amazing views of the Smoky Mountains.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Consider visiting during the Christmas holidays to enjoy the many holiday activities in town.

The southeastern US has so much to offer traveling families. Our list of the best children's museums in the southeast will help you plan your next vacation.
Pretend play is fun for everyone at the Children’s Museum of Memphis. Photo credit: Sarah Gilliland

8. Memphis, Tennessee

Another must-see destination is Memphis, Tennessee. Culture and history abound in this beautiful city. Home to Graceland and the birthplace of the blues and rock and roll, Memphis is diverse and exciting. Families will love the Memphis Zoo and the new Shelby Farms Park, especially in the warmth of the spring or late fall. SheBuysTravel contributor Sarah Gilliland loved the Children’s Museum of Memphis, saying “We could have spent our entire trip in that one museum!” Memphis is an affordable weekend getaway, especially if you live within driving distance.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Check your zoo and/or museum membership. If your local zoo/museum is reciprocal with one in Memphis, your admission may be discounted or free!

Posing with the Giraffe Statue at the Birmingham Zoo
Posing with the Giraffe Statue at the Birmingham Zoo. Photo credit: Sarah Gilliland

9. Birmingham, Alabama

Not often thought of as a tourist destination, SheBuysTravel contributor Sarah Gilliland says Birmingham, Alabama deserves a second look. Living in this city for the last 5 years,  she discovered how much there really is to do and see (and she still hasn’t even done it all yet!). From the incredible science center downtown to the art museum and family-friendly zoo, there is plenty to do for all ages.

Immerse yourself in the history of the south or grab a bit to eat in one of our several incredible restaurants. The foodie scene is booming, so if food is your thing, Birmingham is the place for you!

SheBuysTravel Tip: The Pizitz Food Hall is a great spot to grab a bite to eat. Think upscale food court for adults.

Birmingham’s Iconic Places

Consider a stay at the National Historic Landmark and hotel, The Tutwiler.
Consider a stay at the National Historic Landmark and hotel, The Tutwiler. Photo credit: Christine Tibbetts

Let Alabama surprise you as a trendy, thoughtful, welcoming destination. Its Civil Rights Trail is a vital place to start, expecting culinary and arts wonders too.

Iconic places weave history in forward-facing philosophies and Birmingham wraps the tough lessons in positives. Chefs and family farmers combine fresh, local and sustainable crops with traditional heritage foods or trendy international cuisine.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Need a Birmingham hotel recommendation? Consider the National Historic Landmark named The Tutwiler.  It’s also a Hampton Inn & Suites in the center of the city, a walkable downtown with access to shops, restaurants, night spots and lush, green parks.

10. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama

These sister cities are a hidden gem on the Gulf Coast. Rent a family condo right on the beach and spend the day relaxing. If you’re more adventurous, rent a “Cat Boat” and cruise around the bay looking for dolphins!

Of course, there’s also plenty to choose from in the restaurant category, especially if you’re looking for seafood. Don’t be surprised, however, if your favorite restaurant ends up being something completely unexpected. My family loves the nostalgia and relatively low crowds we find in these friendly coastal towns.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Visit during “shoulder season” (October-December) for lower crowds and cheaper condo rentals.

Beautiful beaches paired with history and authentic regional food make St. Simons, Georgia a top destination in the eastern United States.
Beautiful beaches paired with history and authentic regional food make St. Simons, Georgia a top destination. Photo credit: Liana Moore

11. St. Simon’s Island, Georgia

Beautiful beaches alone are a real treat, but pair that with history and authentic regional food and you’ve got one of the best places to travel in the eastern United States. St. Simons Island is a quaint beach town, one of the Golden Isles, located on the Atlantic Coast of Georgia just north of Florida. Not only does the island have spectacular beaches, but also a deep history, authentic southern food and lots for a family to do. In addition to playing and relaxing on the beautiful beach, there’s a historic lighthouse to climb, tree spirits to search for via bikes built for two and more.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Don’t miss searching for ghost crabs on the beach after dark. Our kids were lucky enough to spot one. Their excitement at actually seeing a ghost crab scamper across the beach to escape the beam of our flashlight was a pretty memorable experience.

Want more inspiration? Top International Destinations to Visit with Kids

One response


  1. Hi I’m a Canuck and a dad but dream returning to vacay in USA with wife and kids…thanks for keeping dreams alive!

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