14-Day Family-Friendly East Coast USA Road Trip - Affordable City Adventures

Day 1: Exploring Boston

Boston, MA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Anna's Taqueria

Start your trip with a delicious breakfast of burritos or a breakfast bowl at this local favourite.
Head towards the Boston Common afterwards.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Freedom Trail

Walk the iconic 2.5-mile Freedom Trail, exploring 16 historical sites that tell the story of America's Revolution.
Starting from Boston Common, follow the red-brick path.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Quincy Market

Enjoy a variety of affordable food options at Quincy Market, perfect for families!
A short walk from the Freedom Trail.
USD40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Boston Children's Museum

Interactive exhibits will keep your kids engaged while they learn through play.
Take a short drive or use public transit.
USD20 per adult, USD15 per child, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Regina

Indulge in legendary pizza that the whole family will love.
Navigate through the city to this popular spot.
USD30, 1 hour

7:00PM

Evening Stroll along the Charles River Esplanade

Enjoy the scenery, with views of the city skyline making for a perfect close to the day.
Drive or walk to the riverside.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: History and Adventure

Boston, MA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mike’s Pastry

Start your day with a pastry from this famous bakery, known for its cannoli.
Walk from your accommodation.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Boston Science Museum

Engage with hands-on science exhibits that will amaze both kids and adults.
Take the T or a short drive.
USD30 per adult, USD25 per child, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Flour Bakery

Grab a sandwich and a sweet treat for a perfect family lunch.
Drive or take public transport.
USD40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the North End

Stroll through Boston’s ‘Little Italy’ filled with charm, shopping, and historical sites.
Make your way on foot.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Original Mamma Maria

Enjoy family-style Italian dining in a cosy setting.
Return to the North End for your meal.
USD80, 1 hour
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Day 3: Cultured Providence

Providence, RI

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gregg's Restaurant

Famous for their breakfast offerings, this diner serves delightful pancakes and omelettes.
Drive to Providence in about 1 hour.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit WaterFire

Explore the enchanting installation of bonfires on the river, if available.
Walking distance from breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Federal Hill

Taste authentic Italian at one of the many eateries in this vibrant neighbourhood.
Short drive or walk from WaterFire.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Roger Williams Park Zoo

Discover various animals while walking through this welcoming family zoo.
Just a short drive from lunch.
USD15 per adult, USD12 per child, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Ravenous Pig

Savour eclectic comfort food crafted from local ingredients.
Steer back towards downtown Providence.
USD50, 1 hour
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Day 4: New Haven Insights

New Haven, CT

8:00AM

Breakfast at Claire’s Corner Copia

Start with a hearty and healthy breakfast at this beloved cafe.
Drive to New Haven in about 1 hour.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Yale University Campus Tour

Explore the historic campus that boasts stunning architecture and museums.
Walking distance from the cafe.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Frank Pepe Pizzeria

Taste the famous New Haven-style pizza that locals rave about.
A short drive across town.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

New Haven Museum

Learn about local history through interesting exhibits.
Close by - just a quick drive or walk.
USD10 per adult, USD5 per child, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Peabody Museum of Natural History

Get amazed by the extensive dinosaur exhibit and Connecticut’s rich natural history.
Easily reachable on foot.
USD15 per adult, USD10 per child, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Louis' Lunch

Indulge in America’s oldest hamburger experience, right where it all began!
Drive to the restaurant.
USD40, 1 hour
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Day 5: Big Apple Adventure

New York City, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Kickstart your NYC adventure with legendary New York bagels.
Drive to NYC, about 2 hours.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Central Park

Walk or rent bikes to explore the bustling park, perfect for the kids to lounge and play.
Walking distance from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shake Shack

Enjoy a casual meal of burgers and fries; kids will love it!
Short walk from the park.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

American Museum of Natural History

Explore fascinating exhibits including dinosaurs and a planetarium.
Head back towards the park.
USD23 per adult, USD13 per child, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Times Square

Experience the vibrant lights and sounds of Times Square.
Drive or take public transit.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Ellen’s Stardust Diner

Enjoy classic diner fare with exciting performances by singing waitstaff.
Walking distance from Times Square.
USD70, 1 hour
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Day 6: City Discovery

New York City, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Grey Dog

This laid-back cafe offers an array of breakfast choices, perfect for families.
A short drive or subway ride.
USD35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Catch a ferry to witness the iconic Statue and learn about immigrant history.
Boarding the ferry from Battery Park.
USD24 per adult, USD18 per child, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Chelsea Market

Explore various dining options - tacos, sushi, and more all in one spot.
Drive or use public transit to get there.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore The High Line

A delightful elevated park perfect for walking and taking in stunning city views.
A short walk from Chelsea Market.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Los Tacos No. 1

Finish the day with authentic Mexican tacos loved by both adults and kids.
Head to the Meatpacking District.
USD40, 1 hour
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Day 7: Historical Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Reading Terminal Market

Start your morning sampling various local foods - ideal for picky eaters!
Drive to Philadelphia, around 2 hours.
USD45, 1 hour

9:30AM

Independence Hall & Liberty Bell

Explore these significant historic landmarks that shaped the nation.
Walking distance from the market.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Jim’s Steaks

Taste the best cheesesteak in Philly as voted by locals.
Short walk over to South Street.
USD30, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Don’t miss the famous Rocky Steps and a fantastic art collection.
Take a short drive or public transit.
USD25 per adult, USD14 per child, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Fairmount Park

Let the kids run free, with beautiful scenery and outdoor activities.
Drive to the park.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Dandelion

A cozy pub with excellent British-inspired meals for the whole family.
Head back towards the city centre.
USD50, 1 hour
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Day 8: Capital Discovery

Washington, D.C.

8:00AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

Enjoy farm-to-table favourites to fuel your day in the capital.
Drive to D.C., about 2.5 hours.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Mall

Explore the impressive monuments and memorials that define the capital.
Walking distance from your breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shake Shack (National Mall)

Grab a quick burger from a much-loved chain while at the mall.
Easy access from the mall.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Smithsonian Museums

Take advantage of free entry to these world-class museums.
Located along the National Mall.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Explore the U.S. Capitol

Take a guided tour and learn about the legislative process.
Walk over to the Capitol.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Ben’s Chili Bowl

Try the famous half-smoke sausage for a true taste of D.C.
Short drive or public transport from the Capitol.
USD30, 1 hour
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Day 9: Capitol Delights

Washington, D.C.

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Willard InterContinental

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast at one of D.C.'s premium hotels.
Quick drive or walk, depending on your accommodation.
USD70, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Zoo

See giant pandas and other animals in this iconic zoo—admission is free!
Take a taxi or drive to the zoo.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Good Stuff Eatery

Savour gourmet burgers and milkshakes; kids will love the fun atmosphere.
A short drive from the zoo.
USD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the International Spy Museum

Uncover the world of espionage—an exciting place for the entire family!
Drive back towards downtown.
USD24 per adult, USD16 per child, 2 hours

5:00PM

Stroll through Georgetown

Wander this charming neighbourhood with shops and historic streets.
Short drive or public transit from the museum.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Fiola Mare

End the day with Italian cuisine right on the waterfront.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: A City of Neighbours

Baltimore, MD

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Moon Cafe

This colourfully decorated cafe offers scrumptious brunch options, sure to satisfy.
Drive to Baltimore, around 1 hour.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Aquarium

Marvel at sea creatures and Experience an underwater rainforest.
Head right to the waterfront.
USD40 per adult, USD30 per child, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fells Point

Explore local eateries and grab a casual meal at this historic waterfront area.
Short drive or walk.
USD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

The Maryland Science Center

Enjoy interactive exhibits perfect for all ages.
Return to the Inner Harbor.
USD25 per adult, USD15 per child, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Fort McHenry

Explore the birthplace of the national anthem; an educational stop for families.
Drive from downtown.
USD15 per adult, USD10 per child, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Indulge in a wide selection of dishes at this family-friendly chain.
Back to the Inner Harbor area.
USD60, 1 hour
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Day 11: Historic Richmond

Richmond, VA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Daily Kitchen & Bar

Savour healthy and delicious brunch options to start your day right.
Drive to Richmond, around 2 hours.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the American Civil War Museum

Learn about the history of the Civil War in this informative museum.
Short drive from the restaurant.
USD10 per adult, USD5 per child, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Tobacco Company Restaurant

Taste classic Southern cuisine in a historic setting.
Head downtown.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Maymont Park

Explore beautiful gardens, a petting zoo, and nature trails, perfect for kids.
Short drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll along Monument Avenue

Discover beautiful architecture and the history behind the monuments.
Drive or walk over.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Grace

A unique dining experience in a converted church with a creative menu.
Head back downtown.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Seaside Adventure

Norfolk, VA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Doumar's

Experience the first place to serve ice cream cones; a tasty start to your day!
Drive to Norfolk, about 1.5 hours.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Nauticus & Battleship Wisconsin

Explore interactive maritime exhibits and board a historic battleship.
Head to the waterfront area.
USD15 per adult, USD10 per child, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Waterside District

Grab something quick in this vibrant waterfront area with various options.
Short walk from Nauticus.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Stroll along the Elizabeth River Trail

Walk or bike along the scenic river trail—ideal for family time.
Easily accessible from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Virginia Zoo

Discover a variety of wildlife and enjoy the serene gardens.
Just a short drive away.
USD15 per adult, USD10 per child, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Beer Garden

Unwind with a casual family meal in a relaxed outdoor setting.
Short drive from the zoo.
USD40, 1 hour
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Day 13: Beach Rest Day

Virginia Beach, VA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Green Cat

Enjoy a healthy breakfast and smoothies to energise for your beach day.
Drive to Virginia Beach, around 30 minutes.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Relax at Virginia Beach

Spend the day enjoying the sun, sand, and sea—perfect for kids to splash around!
Short walk to the beach.
Free, Multiple Hours

12:00PM

Beach Picnic Lunch

Pack a simple picnic to enjoy on the beach.
Bring your own supplies.
USD20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Continued Beach Time

Intermingle beach games and relaxation, in a beautiful beach family day.
On the beach.
Free, Multiple Hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Catch 31

After a fun-filled beach day, enjoy fresh seafood with an ocean view.
Located at the beach area.
USD70, 1 hour
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Day 14: Wrap Up & Relax

Chesapeake, VA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg Bistro

Indulge in a relaxed breakfast in a family-friendly environment.
Short drive from Virginia Beach.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Great Dismal Swamp

Explore the stunning natural beauty with an easy hike or picnic.
Drive to the park.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory (Chesapeake)

Enjoy a farewell lunch at this popular chain; a treat after your journey.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at a local park

Unwind at a nearby park, letting the children play and reflect on the wonderful trip.
Short drive to a local park.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Trip Wrap Up

Consolidate memories and experiences of the trip, with family discussions.
Back to your accommodation to relax.
Free, 1 hour
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