From the historic streets of Boston to the sun-drenched shores of the Florida Keys, America’s East Coast offers a remarkable diversity of experiences. With direct flights from different UK airports to multiple gateway cities, visiting the Eastern USA has never been easier for British travellers. Whether you are looking for a fun-filled city break, or a relaxing escape amongst nature, then the East Coast USA has a destination waiting for you to discover.
For this guide we have assembled our team of USA travel specialists to give their opinions and travel tips for exploring the East Coast’s most captivating destinations. Each of our experts has personally explored these regions, seeking out hidden gems, navigating practical challenges, and discovering the experiences that we think you will enjoy.
Whether you’re drawn to the autumn splendour of New England, the architectural grandeur of Manhattan, the political backdrop to Washington D.C., or the tropical allure of the Florida Keys, our specialists provide insider knowledge that transforms good holidays into unforgettable adventures.
Each destination profile includes travel facts, expert tips and suggested itineraries that will help you plan your next USA holiday. Join our USA Travel Team as they guide you through ten magnificent destinations along America’s eastern seaboard, each offering its own distinctive slice of American life and landscapes.
Chapters: (revised May 2025)
After visiting New England across all four seasons, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for this corner of America that feels surprisingly familiar to British visitors. With its colonial architecture, walkable cities, and emphasis on natural beauty, New England offers UK travellers a perfect introduction to the American experience.
| Boston & New England | |
|---|---|
| What is the best way to travel? | There are direct flights from London Heathrow to Boston Logan International (7-8 hours). Virgin Atlantic and British Airways operate daily services. |
| When is the best time to visit? | Visit in September to mid-October for spectacular autumn foliage. Visit in May to June for pleasant temperatures without the summer crowds. |
| What is the weather like? | Warm, humid summers (25 to 30°C); Cold, snowy winters (-5 to 0°C); Spring and autumn offer milder temperatures (15 to 20°C). |
| What is there to see and do? | Boston’s Freedom Trail, Acadia National Park (Maine), White Mountains (New Hampshire), Cape Cod’s beaches, Newport mansions (Rhode Island), Vermont’s scenic byways. |
| Where is the best place to stay? | Fairmont Copley Plaza (Boston) Nonantum Resort (Kennebunkport) The Lodge at Spruce Peak (Stowe) Harbor View Hotel (Martha’s Vineyard) |
| What is your top travel tip? | Explore by car. Unlike many other US destinations, New England rewards leisurely exploration, with charming villages and stunning views between major attractions. |
| Visit Boston & New England |
Boston serves as the perfect gateway to New England, blending European charm with American history. Begin with the Freedom Trail, which connects 16 historical sites central to America’s independence story.
Beyond Boston, New England unfolds across six distinct states. For first-time visitors, I recommend focusing on Massachusetts, Vermont and New Hampshire for a perfect 8-day ‘highlights’ holiday. Massachusetts offers coastal charm in Cape Cod, where the dune-backed beaches of the National Seashore provide a peaceful retreat remarkably different from Brighton or Bournemouth.
New England’s autumn foliage displays are genuinely spectacular—nothing compares to Vermont’s rolling hills ablaze with crimson and gold. Time your visit between late September and mid-October, but book accommodation well in advance as this coincides with “leaf-peeping” season.
Food-wise, expect excellent seafood (Maine lobster rolls are a must-try) and farm-to-table dining that will impress even the most discerning palates. The craft beer scene is thriving, with more microbreweries per capita than almost anywhere in America.
Distances can be deceptive. While Boston feels compact, travelling between New England highlights requires planning. Unlike the dense cultural attractions of Manhattan, New England’s charm lies in its picturesque small towns and natural beauty, best appreciated at a leisurely pace.
For a fly-drive holiday I would recommend our “New England Explorer” holiday. It’s a 13-day self-drive holiday that perfectly captures the region’s autumnal splendour, with carefully selected accommodation and a route designed to showcase the most spectacular scenery. Alternatively, if you prefer not to drive, then take a look at our “New England’s Fall Foliage” luxury escorted tour. This combines lovely hotels with an expert guide who will talk you through all the best autumn foliage.
Having previously worked for Virgin Atlantic, I’ve been bringing visitors to this wonderful city for many years. While the iconic skyline feels familiar from countless films and TV shows, experiencing Manhattan in person enables you to discover the different areas and characters first hand.
| Manhattan, New York | |
|---|---|
| What is the best way to travel? | There are direct flights from London, Manchester and Edinburgh to JFK, Newark or LaGuardia airports (8 hours). British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, American Airlines and United Airlines all offer daily services. |
| When is the best time to visit? | Visit between April and June or September to November for pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. December offers magical Christmas experiences despite the cold. |
| What is the weather like? | Hot summers (25 to 35°C); Cold winters (-5 to 5°C) with occasional snowfall; Spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures (15 to 25°C). |
| What is there to see and do? | Central Park, Empire State Building, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Broadway shows, Statue of Liberty, Times Square. |
| Where is the best place to stay? | Marriott Marquis (Midtown) Millennium (Downtown) |
| What is your top travel tip? | Using the Subway is quicker and cheaper than taxis, but walking really immerses you in the sights, sounds and smells of the city. And destinations may be closer than you think. |
| Visit New York |
Manhattan packs more cultural institutions, dining options and iconic sights into its compact grid than perhaps any place on earth. For UK visitors, the familiarity of the language combined with the distinctly American energy creates an accessible and thrilling experience.
The city’s meticulous grid system makes navigation refreshingly straightforward—streets run east-west, avenues north-south, with numbers increasing as you move uptown. This organisation makes Manhattan surprisingly manageable for visitors.
Manhattan requires comfortable walking shoes, New Yorkers walk everywhere, and you should to. However, you’ll easily clock 20,000 steps while exploring. The subway system, while initially intimidating, offers the most efficient transport, especially during rush hours when roads become gridlocked.
Theatre lovers will find Broadway shows comparable to London’s West End but with a distinctly American flair. Book in advance for popular productions, though booths in Times Square also offer same-day discounted tickets for the spontaneous.
Food-wise, Manhattan offers everything from Michelin-starred fine dining to authentic ethnic eateries. I recommend exploring beyond familiar chains, try a proper New York bagel for breakfast, authentic pizza by the slice for lunch, and perhaps a classic steakhouse for dinner.
Don’t limit yourself to Midtown’s tourist heartland, each Manhattan neighbourhood offers its own character. The tree-lined streets of Greenwich Village, the artistic energy of Chelsea, and the multicultural vibrance of the Lower East Side reveal the true New York beyond the postcard views.
If you are visiting New York on a city break then perhaps combine it with a sports event, or maybe some Christmas shopping. If you have a bit longer, then our New York City & Hudon River Cruise is a great option to see the city and more, or you can combine the city with the beach on our New York & The Hamptons holiday.
After spending a few years living in upstate New York, I’ve discovered that the Empire State offers far more than just its famous city. For travellers accustomed to the UK’s diverse landscapes within compact distances, New York State delivers a similar variety but on a much grander scale, from the thundering majesty of Niagara Falls to the vast wilderness of the Adirondacks.
| New York State | |
|---|---|
| What is the best way to travel? | You can fly direct to New York City then hire a car or motorhome. Alternatively take a connecting flight to Buffalo, Albany or Syracuse. Amtrak trains also connect most of the New York State Cities. |
| When is the best time to visit? | Visit from May to October for pleasant outdoor exploration. September & October are also good for spectacular autumn colours. Winter offers great skiing in the Adirondacks and Catskills. |
| What is the weather like? | Usually warm summers (20 to 30°C); Cold, snowy winters (-10 to 0°C with significant snowfall); Expect beautiful spring and autumn seasons with vibrant colours. |
| What is there to see and do? | Niagara Falls, Adirondack Mountains, Finger Lakes wineries, Hudson Valley estates, Catskills hiking trails, Lake Placid Olympic sites, Watkins Glen State Park |
| Where is the best place to stay? | Hilton (Albany) Crowne Plaza (Lake Placid) Canopy by Hilton (Ithaca) |
| What is your top travel tip? | New York State’s autumn colours rival New England, but with far less visitors. Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the colours by visiting New York State in September and October. |
| Visit New York State |
New York State unfolds like chapters in a travel guidebook. Just two hours north of Manhattan, the Hudson Valley offers a landscape of rolling hills dotted with historic mansions, farm-to-table restaurants, and charming riverside towns. The area feels remarkably similar to the English countryside but with distinctive American architecture.
Further north, the Adirondack Mountains present over six million acres of protected wilderness, larger than the entire Lake District, Yorkshire Dales and Peak District combined. Lake Placid, twice hosted the Winter Olympics, and serves as an excellent base for exploring this pristine region of crystal-clear lakes and forested peaks.
The Catskills, once the holiday playground of New York City’s elite, have experienced a renaissance of boutique hotels and craft breweries. Visitors will appreciate the region’s artistic heritage and scenic walking trails.
For wine enthusiasts, the Finger Lakes region produces world-class Rieslings amid a landscape of glacial lakes and cascading waterfalls. More than 100 wineries welcome visitors for tastings, with Seneca and Keuka Lakes offering the most scenic driving routes.
No exploration would be complete without experiencing Niagara Falls. Approach from the American side for a more natural setting than its Canadian counterpart, with excellent walking trails through Niagara Falls State Park offering spectacular viewpoints of this natural wonder.
I love our New York to Niagara Falls Road Trip. It is the perfect way to discover New York State, as it visits all the highlights and allows you time to explore. If you are wanting to see the autumn colours, then our New York & New England self-drive combines the best ‘leaf-peeping’ destinations in America. If you prefer not to drive, then our Upstate New York & Hudson River Cruise itinerary combines the Amtrak train from Niagara Falls and a cruise down the Hudson River to New York City.
East Coast USA Holidays by Freedom Destinations
New York | Philadelphia | Washington D.C. | Asheville | Charleston | Savannah | St. Augustine | Orlando | Miami
New York | Sandwich | Plymouth | Salisbury Beach | Bar Harbor | Mount Blue State Park | Bethlehem | Arlington | Gardiner
Washington D.C. | Shenandoah | Roanoke | Blowing Rock | Asheville | Blue Ridge | Nashville
New York | Philadelphia | Washington D.C. | Asheville | Charleston | Savannah | St. Augustine | Orlando | Miami
New York | Sandwich | Plymouth | Salisbury Beach | Bar Harbor | Mount Blue State Park | Bethlehem | Arlington | Gardiner
Washington D.C. | Shenandoah | Roanoke | Blowing Rock | Asheville | Blue Ridge | Nashville
Having visited Pennsylvania a few times over the last few years, I’ve come to appreciate this state as one of America’s hidden gems. From Philadelphia’s walkable historic core to the Amish countryside and the industrial heritage of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania offers a fascinating cross-section of American life.
| Philadelphia & Pennsylvania | |
|---|---|
| What is the best way to travel? | There are direct flights from London Heathrow to Philadelphia International Airport (8 hours) with British Airways and American Airlines. |
| When is the best time to visit? | April to June and September to October has comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. December offers charming holiday markets and decorations. |
| What is the weather like? | There are four distinct seasons: Hot, sometimes humid summers (25 to 32°C); Cold winters (-5 to 5°C); Pleasant spring and autumn (15 to 25°C) with stunning foliage similar to New England but with smaller crowds. |
| What is there to see and do? | Philadelphia’s Independence National Historical Park, Liberty Bell, Amish Country (Lancaster County); Gettysburg Battlefield; Hershey’s Chocolate World; Pocono Mountains. |
| Where is the best place to stay? | Hilton Penn’s Landing (Philadelphia) The Logan (Philadelphia) Gettysburg Hotel (Gettysburg) |
| What is your top travel tip? | Pennsylvania is deceptively large, while Philadelphia deserves at least three days, allow additional time to explore beyond. The state rewards slow travel, particularly through the picturesque Amish countryside. |
| Visit Philadelphia |
Philadelphia’s compact historic district showcases America’s founding story all within easy walking distance. The city’s grid system, established by William Penn, makes orientation simple even for first-time visitors.
Beyond the iconic Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, Philadelphia boasts an impressive cultural scene. The Barnes Foundation houses one of the world’s finest collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, while the Reading Terminal Market offers a gastronome’s paradise that rivals London’s Borough Market.
Just a short drive west lies Lancaster County, home to the Old Order Amish who maintain a lifestyle largely unchanged since the 18th century. Visitors find particular fascination in this living heritage where horse-drawn buggies share roads with modern vehicles. Small family farms dot rolling hills with distinctly American barns and farmhouses.
History enthusiasts should not miss Gettysburg, site of the pivotal American Civil War battle. The meticulously preserved battlefield provides context that deepens understanding of American history far beyond what films or books can convey.
For natural beauty, the Pocono Mountains offer excellent hiking trails, water activities and autumn colour foliage. Further west, Pittsburgh has transformed from an industrial powerhouse to cultural centre, with impressive museums housed in repurposed historic buildings.
Philadelphia combines well with the other Eastern USA cities making it perfect for a multi-centre holiday itinerary. It is well connected by train and bus to both New York and Washington D.C., as well as with neighbouring Pittsburgh. Our New York and Pennsylvania self-drive holiday combines the best of both states, whilst our New York & Philadelphia holiday concentrates on both cities, connected by the Amtrak train.
I can confidently say that Washington D.C. offer something uniquely different from the other East Coast destinations discussed here. The absence of American skyscrapers makes Washington D.C. a refreshingly bright and welcoming city. It still retains the grandeur of the White House and the monuments and museum around the Mall, but it also has welcoming neighbourhoods, each with their own character.
| Washington D.C. | |
|---|---|
| What is the best way to travel? | There are direct flights from London Heathrow to Washington Dulles International Airport (8 hours) with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic and United Airlines. |
| When is the best time to visit? | Visit in March & April for cherry blossom season; September to November for pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists. Summer brings hotter conditions in the city but cooler along the Potomac River. |
| What is the weather like? | Expect hot and humid summers (28 to 35°C); Cold winters (0 to 5°C) with occasional snow but good Christmas lights; Spring features cherry blossoms; Autumn offers pleasant temperatures (15 to 25°C) and colourful foliage. |
| What is there to see and do? | National Mall monuments (Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument); Smithsonian museums (all free entry); Capitol Building; White House; Library of Congress; Georgetown historic district. |
| Where is the best place to stay? | The Watergate Hotel Canopy by Hilton, The Wharf The Melrose, Georgetown |
| What is your top travel tip? | Many places including the Mall and the Wharf are walkable, but The DC Metro system is also clean, efficient and comprehensive. |
| Visit Washington D.C. |
Washington D.C. surprises many visitors who expect a purely administrative city. Whilst it certainly serves as the seat of American government, the capital delivers an exceptionally rich cultural experience, particularly through the Smithsonian Institution’s 19 museums, most located along the National Mall, and all offering free admission.
The city’s layout, designed by Pierre l’Enfant in 1791, features wide, diagonal avenues intersecting with a traditional grid system. This creates a series of circles and squares reminiscent of European capitals, but with distinctly American monumental architecture. The absence of tall skyscrapers (height restrictions limit structures to roughly the width of the street they face) creates an open, airy feel unlike densely packed Manhattan.
For history enthusiasts, Washington offers unparalleled insights into America’s democratic system. Tours of the Capitol Building require advance booking but provide fascinating access to the legislative heart of American government. The White House exterior and visitor centre give context to the executive branch, while the Supreme Court completes the constitutional triad.
Beyond the federal core, D.C.’s distinct neighbourhoods each offer their own character. Georgetown charms with period architecture and upmarket shopping along cobblestone streets. Adams Morgan buzzes with international restaurants and nightlife, whilst the U Street Corridor showcases the city’s African American heritage through music venues and cultural landmarks.
Spring brings the famous cherry blossom festival, which transforms the Tidal Basin into a spectacular display of pink and white blooms, a perfect backdrop for the Jefferson Memorial.
It is possible to visit Washington D.C. as a city break or part of a multi-centre itinerary. Our Explore the Capital Region Self Drive begins and ends in the capital, and combines it with the highlights of Virginia, Maryland and Delaware. Our biggest seller is actually an Eastern USA city hopping holiday that combines Boston, New York and Chicago with a stay in Washington D.C.
Having hiked quite a few miles of Shenandoah’s trails over the years, I’ve come to regard this National Park as the East Coast’s most accessible wilderness experience. For British travellers accustomed to the Lake District or Snowdonia, Shenandoah offers a familiar mountainous landscape but with distinctly American wildlife, vegetation, and vastly fewer fellow hikers. This natural treasure lies just 75 miles from Washington D.C., making it an ideal complement to an East Coast USA itinerary.
| Shenandoah National Park | |
|---|---|
| What is the best way to travel? | No public transport serves the park directly, so fly to Washington D.C., then hire a car for the 1.5-hour drive to the northern entrance. Alternative access is from Charlottesville (1 hour from southern entrance). |
| When is the best time to visit? | Visit mid-September to early November for spectacular autumn colours and April to May for spring wildflowers and waterfalls. July to August is full of lush greenery. |
| What is the weather like? | There is a mountain climate throughout the park with rapid changes: Summer (20 to 30°C) with afternoon thunderstorms; Mild spring and autumn (10 to 20°C); Winter brings snow and ice, often closing Skyline Drive (0 to -10°C). |
| What is there to see and do? | Skyline Drive (105-mile scenic mountain route); Old Rag Mountain hike; Dark Hollow Falls; Hawksbill Summit (highest point); Big Meadows area; Numerous overlooks with spectacular valley views. |
| Where is the best place to stay? | Skyland Resort Big Meadows Lodge |
| What is your top travel tip? | Rise early to maximise wildlife sightings—dawn offers the best opportunity to spot black bears, white-tailed deer, and over 200 bird species while enjoying misty mountain panoramas without crowds. |
Shenandoah National Park stretches along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains, creating a narrow, elevated wilderness that follows the famous Skyline Drive. This engineering marvel from the 1930s provides 75 scenic overlooks where the Shenandoah Valley unfolds dramatically to the west and the rolling Piedmont stretches eastward towards the coast.
For all visitors, the park provides an ideal introduction to the American wilderness without requiring extensive backcountry experience. Well-marked trails range from accessible 1-mile loops to more challenging 10-mile circuits, with clear signage showing difficulty levels and estimated completion times. Shenandoah’s trails are typically rocky but well-maintained.
Wildlife encounters add a unique element to any visit. Black bears roam throughout the park (safely observed from a distance), while the forests teem with other wildlife. The eastern hardwood forest transitions dramatically through the seasons, from spring’s delicate dogwood and redbud blossoms to summer’s lush canopy and autumn’s fiery display of red, orange and gold.
History buffs will appreciate traces of mountain communities who lived here before the park’s establishment in 1935. The Appalachian Trail also traverses the entire length of the park, offering hikers a chance to walk a section of this iconic 2,190-mile footpath.
While Shenandoah can be experienced as a day trip from Washington D.C., I strongly recommend at least one overnight stay to experience the remarkable stargazing (the park is a designated Dark Sky location) and the dawn wildlife activity that day-trippers miss.
Our Capital Region and Blue Ridge Parkway self drive holidays, all spend some time in Shenandoah National Park, and you can choose to extend your stay in the park if you want to see and do more. Similarly our Mountains & Music Motorhome itinerary combines Kentucky and Tennessee before driving up the Blue Ridge Mountains to Shenandoah. Shenandoah National Park can also be combined with a city break in Washington D.C.
Forsyth Park, Savannah
I’ve fallen deeply in love with this enchanting Southern Belle. Savannah offers something delightfully different from the northern cities, a distinctly American experience with a pace and charm that feels almost Mediterranean. The city’s 22 historic squares draped in Spanish moss create a magical atmosphere unlike anywhere else on the East Coast, while its complex history offers thoughtful visitors much to contemplate.
| Savannah, Georgia | |
|---|---|
| What is the best way to travel? | Currently there are no direct flights from UK; so connect via Atlanta, Charlotte or New York to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport. |
| When is the best time to visit? | Visit between March and May for incredible azalea blooms and comfortable temperatures. September to November also has pleasant weather without summer’s humidity. Avoid June until August unless you enjoy tropical heat. |
| What is the weather like? | Hot, humid summers (30 to 35°C with high humidity); Mild winters (7 to 18°C); Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures (18 to 25°C) with lower humidity. |
| What is there to see and do? | Historic District (largest National Historic Landmark District in the US); Forsyth Park; River Street; Bonaventure Cemetery; Tybee Island beaches; SCAD Museum of Art; Wormsloe Historic Site. |
| Where is the best place to stay? | The Kimpton Brice Indigo Hotel Hotel Bardo |
| What is your top travel tip? | Savannah has an open container policy in the Historic District, so you can request your cocktail “to go” in a plastic cup and enjoy it while strolling between the city’s beautiful squares. |
| Visit Georgia |
Savannah stands apart from other American cities thanks to General Sherman’s decision to spare it during the Civil War, preserving its architectural heritage while other Southern cities burned. The resulting streetscapes feel frozen in time with elegant Georgian, Federal, and Greek Revival mansions that surround verdant squares planned by the city’s founder, James Oglethorpe, in 1733.
Savannah offers a walkable urban experience reminiscent of Bath or Edinburgh in the UK, but with distinctly Southern character. The grid layout makes navigation simple, while the 22 squares provide shaded respite during explorations. Each square tells its own story through monuments and the surrounding architecture, creating a living museum of American history.
Savannah’s complex past includes both the grace of privileged society and the brutality of slavery. Many historic homes offer thoughtful presentations acknowledging this dual heritage, providing context that helps visitors understand America’s complicated relationship with its past.
Culinary experiences here delight those seeking authentic Southern cuisine. From elegant restaurants serving refined interpretations of classic dishes to humble cafes offering soul food. Don’t miss trying shrimp and grits, fried green tomatoes, and peach cobbler; dishes that exemplify Southern cooking’s blend of African, European and Caribbean influences.
Beyond the Historic District, Tybee Island offers 5 miles of Atlantic beaches just 30 minutes from downtown, a perfect day trip combining historical exploration with coastal relaxation. Bonaventure Cemetery, made famous by “Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil,” provides a hauntingly beautiful glimpse into Victorian funerary art beneath ancient oak trees.
For those wanting to explore South Carolina and Georgia independently our Great Smokies & The Carolina Coast holiday combines the Great Smoky Mountains with a visit to Savannah and Charleston. But if you really want to make the most of your visit to the Eastern USA, then I would point you in the direction of our New York to Miami Road Trip. You can customise the route and stops to spend more time in Savannah. You won’t regret it!
The most visited National Park in America is the Great Smoky Mountains. Not Yellowstone or The Grand Canyon! So why haven’t you been there already? The park straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, forming part of the Appalachian range, so you should be able to imagine the scenery already; dense forests, mountain slopes and crystal clear rivers. These dramatic landscapes are complimented by the famous American wildlife. Keep an eye out for black bears or eagles soaring above the canopy.
| Great Smoky Mountains | |
|---|---|
| What is the best way to travel? | As you would expect, there are no direct flights into this area, with the nearest airports in Knoxville or Asheville. Most people will arrive by car or motorhome. |
| When is the best time to visit? | Mid-May to early June is good for spring wildflowers; September and October for autumn colours and cooler hiking temperatures; Winter gives fewer crowds, but some roads may close with snow. |
| What is the weather like? | Elevation determines conditions: Valley floors (15 to 30°C in summer, -5 to 10°C in winter); Mountain peaks can be 10 to 15°C cooler. Snow is possible from October to April at higher elevations. |
| What is there to see and do? | Clingmans Dome (highest peak); Cades Cove historic valley; Newfound Gap Road scenic drive; Alum Cave Trail; Cataloochee Valley (for elk viewing); Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail; Blue Ridge Parkway. |
| Where is the best place to stay? | Dollywood’s Dream More Resort (Pigeon Forge) The Lodge at Buckberry Creek (Gatlinburg) |
| What is your top travel tip? | Visit mid-week and start early. America’s most visited national park (12+ million annual visitors) can become crowded, particularly on summer weekends. The North Carolina side generally offers a more tranquil experience. |
| Visit North Carolina |
The Great Smoky Mountains earned their name from the natural mist that frequently shrouds the mountains, a blue-tinted vapour released by the dense forest that creates the ethereal atmosphere, similar to the Blue Mountains in Australia. This ancient mountain range, formed over 300 million years ago, stands in stark contrast to the younger hills elsewhere, offering a glimpse into primeval America.
For travellers accustomed to the cultivated landscapes of the UK, the Smokies present an impressive wilderness that still feels accessible. Over 800 miles of well-maintained trails range from gentle woodland walks to challenging mountain ascents, all clearly marked with difficulty ratings. Newfound Gap Road bisects the park, providing car access to spectacular viewpoints for those with limited mobility or time.
The biodiversity here astounds me more with each visit. The park contains more tree species than all of northern Europe combined. Spring showcases over 1,500 flowering plant species in successive waves of bloom, while autumn transforms the densely forested slopes into a spectacular patchwork of crimson, orange and gold that rivals New England but with more dramatic terrain.
Black bears (approximately 1,500 in the park), white-tailed deer, and wild turkeys appear regularly, while lucky visitors might spot river otters, elk in Cataloochee Valley, or even rarely glimpsed bobcats.
The park’s cultural heritage adds another dimension through preserved 19th-century homesteads, mills, and churches in Cades Cove and other historic areas. These settlements tell the story of the Appalachian Mountain people whose descendants still maintain distinctive traditions in the surrounding communities.
The Great Smoky Mountains combines really well with Shenandoah National Park, further north along the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our Blue Ridge Parkway fly-drive holiday combines both parks really well, and you can extend your stay in either if you want to do some more hiking. Our Great Smokies & Carolina Coast holiday spends time in the park before heading to the coast, whilst our Mountains & Music by Motorhome, combines the park with the landscapes of Kentucky and Tennessee.
Having visited Orlando annually for the past 12 years with my growing family, I’ve witnessed this destination evolve far beyond its theme park reputation. While Disney World and Universal remain the primary draw for British families, I’ve discovered that Orlando offers a surprising depth of experiences that many UK visitors miss. From wildlife encounters to cultural attractions and spectacular natural springs, there’s a Florida waiting to be discovered beyond the castle gates.
| Orlando, Florida | |
|---|---|
| What is the best way to travel? | You can choose direct flights from London, Manchester and Glasgow to Orlando International Airport (MCO) with Virgin Atlantic & British Airways (9½ Hours) |
| When is the best time to visit? | January to April provides comfortable temperatures and lower humidity; November & December also has mild weather and shorter theme park queues. Avoid summer’s (June to September) higher temperatures, humidity, and crowds, unless necessary for the school holidays. |
| What is the weather like? | Hot, humid summers (30-35°C with afternoon thunderstorms); Warm, dry winters (15-25°C); Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures (20-30°C). Hurricane season peaks from August to October. |
| What is there to see and do? | Walt Disney World Resort (four theme parks, two water parks); Universal Orlando Resort (three theme parks); SeaWorld Orlando; Kennedy Space Centre; Discovery Cove; Winter Park; Wekiwa Springs State Park; Orlando Science Centre. |
| Where is the best place to stay? | Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Loews Portofino Bay Hotel Disney’s Coronado Springs |
| What is your top travel tip? | Invest in Express/Lightning Lane passes for at least one day of your theme park visits. The time saved during UK school holiday periods is worth the extra cost, allowing you to experience twice as many attractions. |
| Visit Orlando |
Orlando’s transformation from orange groves to global tourism powerhouse represents one of America’s most remarkable success stories. For British families, the 47 square miles of Walt Disney World Resort often forms the centrepiece of their first American experience. There are four theme parks, two water parks, and numerous hotels creating a self-contained world of entertainment.
Universal Orlando Resort offers a more contemporary alternative, particularly appealing to families with older children and Harry Potter enthusiasts. The Wizarding World areas showcase extraordinary attention to detail, with Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade village recreations that feel transported directly from British soil, albeit with Florida sunshine.
What many visitors miss, however, are Orlando’s natural attractions. Crystal-clear freshwater springs maintain a constant 22°C year-round, perfect for refreshing swims away from chlorinated pools. Wekiwa Springs State Park, just 30 minutes from Disney, offers paddling, swimming and wildlife spotting opportunities in pristine natural settings.
Winter Park, a sophisticated enclave north of downtown, provides a glimpse of old Florida with its brick streets, lakeside parks, and Morse Museum housing the world’s most comprehensive collection of Tiffany glass. A scenic boat tour through its interconnected lakes reveals spectacular waterfront homes and abundant birdlife.
The Space Coast lies just an hour east, where Kennedy Space Centre delivers an inspiring look at America’s space programme through immersive exhibits and actual rockets. Nearby Cocoa Beach offers Atlantic surfing opportunities and seafood restaurants showcasing fresh catches.
For families staying longer than a week, I recommend allocating at least two “non-park days” to recover from theme park exertion and experience these alternative attractions; often the days I recall most fondly from our annual visits.
I still love the theme parks, but I also love the rest of Florida too, so I would recommend our Florida’s Theme Parks & Beaches holiday, that combines seven nights in a Kissimmee Villa, with a self drive to some of the best beaches on either coast. If you don’t want to spend quite so much time at the theme parks, then our Best of Florida Fly Drive visits all the highlights. For something completely different why not try our Orlando & Puerto Rico holiday that combines a traditional Orlando stay with a Caribbean holiday.
Having retuned many times to Florida, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for Miami’s distinctive blend of cultures and lifestyles. For most travellers, this region of Florida offers perhaps the most exotic experience on the East Coast; a vibrant collision of Latin American and Caribbean influences that feels a world away from the historical cities of the north or even nearby Orlando’s carefully manufactured experiences.
| Miami & The Florida Keys | |
|---|---|
| What is the best way to travel? | Direct flights from London Heathrow to Miami International Airport (MIA) with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and American Airlines (9½ hours). Manchester offers seasonal direct flights. The Keys are best accessed by car via the spectacular Overseas Highway. |
| When is the best time to visit? | November to April for dry, sunny weather with comfortable humidity. December to February offers ideal conditions but peak prices. May to October brings heat, humidity, and hurricane risk, though accommodation prices drop significantly. |
| What is the weather like? | Summers are hot and humid (30 to 35°C with afternoon showers); Winters are mild and dry (20 to 28°C); Hurricane season peaks in August to October. The Keys generally run 2 to 3°C warmer than Miami year-round. |
| What is there to see and do? | Miami: South Beach Art Deco District, Wynwood Walls, Little Havana, Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, Everglades National Park. Florida Keys: John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, Bahia Honda State Park, Ernest Hemingway Home, Key West Old Town, Dry Tortugas National Park. |
| Where is the best place to stay? | Gale South Beach (Miami) Baker’s Cay Resort (Key Largo) Parrot Key Hotel (Key West) |
| What is your top travel tip? | The Overseas Highway connecting the Keys stretches 113 miles with 42 bridges. Plan your journey with frequent stops at roadside seafood shacks, hidden beaches, and wildlife sanctuaries rather than racing to Key West. The journey truly is the destination here. |
| Visit Miami |
Miami presents visitors with an intoxicating cultural mix unlike anywhere else in America. South Beach’s preserved Art Deco district showcases over 800 architectural treasures painted in pastel shades, creating a striking contrast to the blue Atlantic. Beyond its famous beach culture, Miami has transformed into a serious arts destination, with the Wynwood district’s street art and Design District’s galleries rivalling international cultural capitals.
For travellers seeking authentic experiences, Little Havana offers a slice of Cuba transplanted to the mainland. The Cuban coffee shops, cigar rollers, and domino players in Máximo Gómez Park provide a good example of Latin culture without leaving American soil. The annual Calle Ocho Festival transforms the neighbourhood into the world’s largest street party.
The 113-mile Overseas Highway to Key West ranks amongst America’s most spectacular drives, island-hopping across the Florida Keys via 42 bridges, including the remarkable Seven Mile Bridge. Each key offers its own character: Key Largo’s underwater preserves provide world-class diving and snorkelling; Islamorada calls itself the “Sportfishing Capital of the World”; Marathon offers family-friendly beaches and a turtle rehabilitation centre; while Key West delivers a free-spirited atmosphere where Caribbean, Cuban and American influences blend before a delightful sunset.
Nature enthusiasts should allocate time for Everglades National Park, accessible from Miami and offering airboat tours through sawgrass prairies where alligators, manatees, and an astonishing variety of birdlife thrive in America’s largest subtropical wilderness. In the Lower Keys, the National Key Deer Refuge protects miniature deer found nowhere else on earth, standing just 75cm tall at the shoulder.
Is it too simple to suggest that our Miami & The Florida Keys fly-drive holiday is the perfect way to explore Southern Florida? It even includes a visit to the Everglades National Park. Our Florida Keys Road Trip and Key largo to Key West self drive also offer a taste of Miami and the Florida Keys. For something a little different you could explore Florida in a motorhome on our Florida’s Beaches itinerary. All of them are very good at immersing you in Florida’s sunshine!
As our team of specialists has demonstrated, America’s eastern seaboard offers a remarkably diverse set of experiences, from the towering skyscrapers of New York to the tropical sands of the Florida Keys, with countless treasures in between. While each destination shines with its own distinctive character, the true magic of East Coast USA travel often lies in thoughtful combinations that showcase America’s impressive variety within a single journey.
At Freedom Destinations, we specialise in crafting personalised America itineraries that align with your specific interests, pace preferences, and travel style. Our specialists, the same experts who have shared their insights throughout this guide, work directly with our customers to design journeys that balance iconic highlights with hidden gems, optimised for your requirements and expectations. We encourage you to browse our pre-designed itineraries, which can serve as inspiration or starting points for your own bespoke adventure. Alternatively, contact any of our America specialists directly to begin crafting a journey tailored precisely to your interests.
Richard has more than 25 years of experience working within the travel industry. He has travelled widely in the USA, Australia and Africa and enjoys exploring National Parks and other wilderness areas.
