East Coast Highlights: New York, Philadelphia & Washington DC – 5‑Day Adventure

Day 1: Arrival in New York City & Evening Stroll

Morning: Arrive at JFK/LGA, check into your hotel and freshen up before heading out. Grab a quick coffee near Times Square to soak in the city’s energy.

Afternoon: Wander through Central Park, strolling along its winding paths and enjoying iconic views of the skyline. A short walk brings you to the historic Brooklyn Bridge for photo opportunities.

Evening: Experience the dazzling lights of Times Square and grab dinner at a nearby eatery. End the night with a leisurely walk along the elevated High Line park.

Day 2: Manhattan’s Cultural Treasures

Morning: Begin at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, exploring its vast collections for a couple of hours. Continue with a short walk to the nearby Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum for its iconic architecture.

Afternoon: Head to The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) to view modern masterpieces, then make your way to Empire State Building for panoramic city views.

Evening: Take a ferry to see the illuminated Statue of Liberty from the water, then return to Manhattan for dinner in the lively Times Square area.

Day 3: Philadelphia’s Historic & Artistic Gems

Morning: Travel to Philadelphia and start at the grand Philadelphia Museum of Art, famous for its “Rocky Steps.” A quick stroll brings you to the iconic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall.

Afternoon: Delve into the eerie past at Eastern State Penitentiary, then explore the science wonders at The Franklin Institute. Snack at the bustling Reading Terminal Market.

Evening: Wander through the colorful mosaic of Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens before dinner in the historic Old City.

Day 4: More Philadelphia Highlights

Morning: Visit the stunning Barnes Foundation to admire its art collection, then head to the Museum of the American Revolution for immersive history.

Afternoon: Spend a lively afternoon at the Philadelphia Zoo, spotting exotic animals and enjoying interactive exhibits.

Evening: Relax in the vibrant atmosphere of Rittenhouse Square (free) and enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.

Day 5: Washington DC – Monuments & Museums

Morning: Arrive in Washington DC and start with a tour of the iconic Washington Monument and reflective views at the Lincoln Memorial.

Afternoon: Explore the Smithsonian treasures: the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History. Walk the expansive National Mall between monuments.

Evening: Visit the majestic United States Capitol and the historic White House from the outside before enjoying a farewell dinner near the Mall.

Time and Cost Estimates

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art – 2 hrs – $30.00
• Statue of Liberty – 1 hr – $25.50
• The Museum of Modern Art – 2 hrs – $30.00
• Empire State Building – 1 hr – $55.52
• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum – 1.5 hrs – $30.00
• Philadelphia Museum of Art – 2 hrs – $30.00
• Independence Hall – 1 hr – $1.00
• Eastern State Penitentiary – 1.5 hrs – $21.00
• The Franklin Institute – 2 hrs – $29.00
• Philadelphia Zoo – 3 hrs – $20.00
• Barnes Foundation – 1.5 hrs – $30.00
• Museum of the American Revolution – 1 hr – $23.00
• Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens – 1 hr – $15.00
• Washington Monument – 1 hr – $1.00
• Total Estimated Cost: $341.02

Tips

If you have extra days, consider adding a half‑day in Brooklyn to explore the Williamsburg neighborhood or a day trip to Mount Vernon near DC. To shorten the trip, focus on the top three attractions in each city—e.g., skip the Guggenheim and Magic Gardens—to fit everything into a compact 4‑day itinerary while still experiencing the essential highlights.