Epic East Coast Whale Watching Road Trip

Day 1: Drive to Indianapolis

Indianapolis, IN on March 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Patachou

Known for its local ingredients, enjoy a delicious omelette or French toast to start your day.
$15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Indianapolis

Start your journey with a scenic drive towards the capital of Indiana, approximately 3 hours away.
$0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at St. Elmo Steak House

Famous for its shrimp cocktail and rich history. Enjoy a hearty meal to fuel your travels.
$30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Indianapolis Museum of Art

Explore the diverse art collection in a beautiful setting, perfect for a short cultural stop.
$0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Check into hotel and relax

Unwind at your hotel, preferably downtown, to maximize your evening options.
$150, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Eagle

Savor crispy fried chicken and classic sides in a relaxed atmosphere to end your day.
$25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Explore Columbus, OH

Columbus, OH on March 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kimmie's

This quaint spot offers homemade pancakes and fresh coffee to kickstart your day.
$12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Columbus, OH

Enjoy the scenic route, approximately 2 hours until you reach your next destination.
$0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Franklin Park Conservatory

Explore the gardens and exotic plants in a beautiful sanctuary that feels worlds away.
$18, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at North Market

A food lover's paradise with various local vendors; grab something that catches your eye.
$15, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore the Columbus Museum of Art

Dive into Ohio's art scene with both classic and contemporary exhibits.
$10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check into hotel and relax

Take a brief respite at your hotel to refresh before dinner.
$150, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Pearl

Enjoy an upscale seafood dinner featuring fresh catches from the coast.
$40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Travel to Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, PA on March 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dottie’s

Try their famous breakfast burrito paired with rich coffee to kick off your journey.
$10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Pittsburgh, PA

A scenic, 3-hour drive filled with rolling hills and spectacular views of the Appalachian Mountains.
$0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Primanti Bros.

Experience a Pittsburgh classic with sandwiches filled with fries and coleslaw—a must-try.
$15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit the Duquesne Incline

Ride this historic incline for breathtaking views of the Pittsburgh skyline and rivers.
$5, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Check into hotel and relax

Unwind after your travels in a centrally located hotel.
$150, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Meat & Potatoes

Enjoy classic comfort food with a modern twist in a lively atmosphere.
$35, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Drive to Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. on March 15, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at LiteraTea

Start your day with a calming tea and a light pastry in a cozy setting.
$10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Washington, D.C.

Set off on a 4-hour journey, taking in the picturesque landscapes along the way.
$0, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill

A staple in D.C., known for its oysters and classic American fare in an elegant setting.
$30, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the National Mall

Stroll around the historic monuments and memorials, absorbing the capital’s rich history.
$0, 3 hours

5:30PM

Check into hotel and relax

Take a break at a hotel near the National Mall to prepare for your evening.
$200, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Founding Farmers

Features farm-to-table dishes celebrating American culinary traditions in an upbeat setting.
$40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Travel to Ocean City, MD

Ocean City, MD on March 16, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coupe

A vibrant place known for its brunch menu that includes delicious benedicts and smoothies.
$12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Ocean City, MD

Enjoy a relaxing drive along the coast for about 3 hours, breathing in that fresh ocean air.
$0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Shark

Savor fresh seafood dishes with an unbeatable beach view to complete the seaside experience.
$25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Relax on the beach

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
$0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Check into hotel and relax

Unwind at a beachfront hotel, ready for a fun-filled evening.
$200, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Fager's Island

An iconic spot for delicious seafood with stunning sunset views over the bay.
$35, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Explore Cape May, NJ

Cape May, NJ on March 17, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at George's Place

Famous for their beachy breakfast vibe; try their stuffed French toast—a true treat.
$15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Cape May, NJ

A scenic 2-hour drive along the coast, perfect for exploring charming beach towns on the way.
$0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Whale watching tour

Join a local charter for a 2-hour guided tour of whale spotting off the coast.
$50, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Black Duck

Relax with an outdoor lunch featuring local seafood specialties and fresh salads.
$20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Cape May's Historic District

Admire Victorian-style houses and a quaint shopping atmosphere in this charming area.
$0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check into hotel and relax

Stay at a historic B&B to fully embrace the Cape May charm.
$250, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Merion Inn

Relish upscale dining with seasonal ingredients, situated in a delightful Victorian-era setting.
$45, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Drive to Bar Harbor, ME

Bar Harbor, ME on March 18, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Blue Pig

Try their amazing breakfast burrito; the flavors will fuel you for your drive ahead.
$12, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Bar Harbor, ME

Prepare for a scenic 8-hour drive, enjoying coastal views and charming towns along the way.
$0, 8 hours

5:00PM

Check into hotel and relax

Unwind after a long journey at a cozy Bar Harbor hotel, ideally located near Acadia National Park.
$200, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Side Street Cafe

Savor a delicious lobster roll in a casual and friendly atmosphere, perfect for a coastal vibe.
$30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Whale Watching Adventure

Bar Harbor, ME on March 19, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Jeannie's Breakfast

Known for their hearty pancakes; a satisfying start before a long day outside.
$10, 1 hour

8:30AM

Whale watching tour

Experience a thrilling 3-hour tour to spot humpback and minke whales in their natural habitat.
$100, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Dock

Enjoy seafood right on the waterfront; their clam chowder is a must-have while you relax by the sea.
$25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Acadia National Park

Hike or drive through stunning landscapes, perfect for any outdoor enthusiast looking for adventure.
$30, 3 hours

5:00PM

Check into hotel and relax

Return to your hotel, filled with memories of the day, and prepare for dinner.
$0, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Galyn's

Enjoy fine dining with a view of the harbor; their fresh fish dishes impress every time.
$50, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Travel to Bangor, ME

Bangor, ME on March 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Grab a quick bite with their artisanal coffees and pastries to fuel your day ahead.
$8, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Bangor, ME

A quick 1-hour drive, perfect for catching your breath after an exhilarating whale-watching experience.
$0, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Stephen King House

Explore the famous author’s home—may even spot that iconic gate, definitely a fan favorite.
$0, 1 hour

11:30AM

Lunch at Bangor Beer Company

Indulge in some local craft beer and delicious pub fare to round out your morning.
$20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore the Bangor Waterfront

Stroll along the beautiful waterfront park, taking in sights and sounds along the river.
$0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Check into hotel and relaxed

Relax at a local hotel, giving you a chance to freshen up before dinner.
$150, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Fiddlehead Restaurant

Savor locally-sourced ingredients in a cozy atmosphere perfect for winding down after your day.
$35, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Journey back through New Hampshire

New Hampshire on March 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before hitting the road; take advantage of the hotel’s buffet offerings.
$0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive through New Hampshire

Enjoy the scenic roads of New Hampshire, filled with beautiful landscapes and charming towns, as you make your way south.
$0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Common Man

Stop at a classic New England restaurant featuring regional home-cooked favorites.
$20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Mount Washington Hotel

Take a short detour to see this grand historic hotel and maybe snap some photos of the stunning vistas.
$0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Check into hotel and relax

Arrive at your hotel to recharge for the next part of your journey; enjoy a quiet evening.
$150, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at the Red Parka Pub

Taste local craft beer and hearty food in a cozy atmosphere, ideal for an evening meal around a warm fire.
$25, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Travel to New York City

New York City, NY on March 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Make the most of your time with a convenient breakfast before your big city adventure.
$0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to New York City

Get ready for an exciting 3-hour drive filled with anticipation as you head to the Big Apple.
$0, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Katz's Delicatessen

Enjoy famous pastrami sandwiches at this iconic New York deli, a bucket-list experience for foodies.
$25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Lower Manhattan

Visit key sites like One World Trade Center and the 9/11 Memorial, immersing yourself in significant history.
$0, 3 hours

4:30PM

Check into hotel and relax

Unwind at your hotel in the heart of Manhattan; recharge before dinner.
$300, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at !pm in NYC

Experience a glamourous New York dining experience while you continue to take in the city's excitement.
$75, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Events in NYC

New York City, NY on March 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Balthazar

Start your day with crepes or a baked good at this iconic restaurant in Soho.
$20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Central Park

Explore the scenic walking paths, enjoy the fresh air, and perhaps take a short boat ride on the lake.
$0, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Marvel at the vast collection of artworks spanning centuries in one of the world’s largest museums.
$25, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Halal Guys

Grab a quick, delicious street-side meal from one of NYC’s most famous food trucks—a must-try on your journey.
$10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Times Square

Take in the bright lights and excitement of this iconic location, perfect for some great photos.
$0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check into hotel and relax

Return to your hotel to rest before dinner; perhaps take a moment to reflect on the day’s adventures.
$0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Serafina

Experience a lively Italian dining experience with delicious pizzas and fresh pasta, a great end to your day.
$40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Return to East Peoria

East Peoria, IL on March 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Grab a final breakfast to kick off your journey back home—a chance to reflect on your trip.
$0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive back to East Peoria, IL

Enjoy a 6-hour drive back home, reminiscing about your adventure-filled trip.
$0, 6 hours

3:00PM

Arrive in East Peoria

Back home with beautiful memories and exciting stories to share with friends and family.
$0, 0 hours
View Hotel Availability