Get ready for the ultimate adventure from NYC to Washington, D.C.!
This journey takes you through six states, each packed with unique stops where you can explore history, nature and have plenty of fun along the way.
You’ll experience everything from charming small towns and jaw-dropping landscapes to historic sites that shaped the nation.

Whether you’re craving amazing food, outdoor adventures, or a deep dive into America’s past, this itinerary has it all.
You won’t want to miss a single stop on this unforgettable route!
1. New York City

We’re starting off this epic road trip from NYC.
It’s a great chance to explore iconic spots like Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Central Park before you hit the road.
If you’re from out of town, grab a bagel at Ess-a-Bagel or a slice of classic New York pizza from Joe’s on Carmine Street.

Art lovers can check out the MET or the Museum of Modern Art, while Broadway fans might squeeze in a matinee.
If you already live in NYC, you might skip the sightseeing—but hey, it’s always a good excuse to grab a coffee from your favorite corner bodega before heading out!
2. Thomas Edison National Historical Park, New Jersey

About an hour’s drive from New York City, you’ll reach Thomas Edison National Historical Park in West Orange, New Jersey.
This fascinating spot lets you explore Edison’s famous lab complex, where groundbreaking inventions like the phonograph and electric light bulb came to life.
You can wander through the inventor’s chemistry lab, peek into his machine shop, and even see a replica of the world’s first ever movie studio, the Black Maria.
It’s a fun way to explore the life of one of America’s most brilliant minds!
3. Princeton, New Jersey

Just an hour from Thomas Edison National Historical Park, Princeton is the next stop on our road trip.
Home to the prestigious Princeton University, this charming town is packed with history and beautiful architecture.
Take a stroll around the university’s stunning Gothic-style campus, explore the Princeton University Art Museum, or relax by the peaceful Lake Carnegie.
Don’t forget to swing by Palmer Square for boutique shopping and a bite at local favorite Hoagie Haven—perfect for recharging before getting back on the road!
4. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

A little over an hour’s drive from Princeton brings you to Philadelphia, a city packed with history and legendary food.
Known as the birthplace of America, Philly is home to Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed, and the iconic Liberty Bell.
For a taste of the city, grab a Philly cheesesteak from Pat’s or Geno’s, or explore the mouthwatering options at Reading Terminal Market.
Don’t miss the “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where you can strike a pose like the movie legend himself!
5. Longwood Gardens, Pennsylvania

About an hour southwest of Philadelphia, Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square is a breathtaking stop you won’t want to miss.
Known for its sprawling 1,000 acres of stunning gardens, this horticultural wonderland features everything from vibrant flower displays to enchanting fountains and shady woodlands.
Highlights include the Conservatory with its exotic plants and the mesmerizing Fountain Garden, which hosts dazzling water shows in the warmer months.
It’s the perfect place to stretch your legs, snap some incredible photos, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of nature before continuing your journey.
6. Lancaster, Pennsylvania

A one hour drive from Longwood Gardens takes you to Lancaster which is situated at the heart of Amish Country.
Known for its rolling farmland and slower pace, Lancaster offers a glimpse into the Amish way of life with horse-drawn buggies and traditional craftsmanship.
Stop by the Amish Farm and House for an interactive tour or shop for homemade treats at the Central Market, the country’s oldest farmers’ market.
Don’t miss trying out shoofly pie or taking a ride on the historic Strasburg Rail Road, a scenic steam train experience through the countryside!
7. Hershey, Pennsylvania

Just 40 minutes from Lancaster, Hershey is a sweet stop that’s all about chocolate and family fun.
Known as “The Sweetest Place on Earth,” Hershey is home to Hersheypark, a theme park with roller coasters, water rides, and candy-themed attractions.
At Hershey’s Chocolate World, you can take a free tour to learn how chocolate is made, create your own candy bar, and stock up on treats.
For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Hershey Gardens to see pretty flowers and butterflies or explore the fascinating Hershey Story Museum to learn about Milton Hershey’s life and legacy.
8. Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania

An hour’s drive from Hershey, Gettysburg National Military Park is a must-visit for history fans.
This iconic site preserves the battlefield of the Civil War’s turning point in 1863 and offers guided tours, hiking trails, and powerful monuments.
Start at the Museum and Visitor Center to watch the film A New Birth of Freedom and see the stunning Cyclorama, a massive 360-degree painting of the battle.
Don’t miss walking or driving to Little Round Top and Pickett’s Charge for incredible views and a deeper understanding of this pivotal event in American history.
9. Frederick, Maryland

Just 35 minutes from Gettysburg, Frederick offers everything from history to art and plenty of good eats.
Known for its beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century buildings, the city’s downtown is perfect for a leisurely stroll with boutique shops, galleries, and cozy cafes.
History buffs will love visiting the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, which tells the story of battlefield medicine during the Civil War.
Before you leave, check out Carroll Creek Park, a picturesque spot with a canal, public art, and plenty of great restaurants nearby like Brewer’s Alley.
10. Antietam National Battlefield, Maryland

Just 40 minutes from Frederick, Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg is a solemn and historically significant stop.
This is the site of the Battle of Antietam, the bloodiest single-day battle in American history, which played a critical role in the Civil War.
You can tour the battlefield by car or on foot, stopping at landmarks like the Burnside Bridge and Dunker Church.
The Visitor Center offers exhibits and a film to help you understand the battle’s impact, and the surrounding countryside is absolutely stunning.
11. Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Just a 30-minute drive from Antietam, Harpers Ferry in West Virginia is a picturesque town full of fascinating history and beautiful nature.
Situated at the confluence of the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers, it’s known for its role in John Brown’s 1859 abolitionist raid and as a key Civil War site.
Explore the Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, where you can wander through restored 19th-century buildings or hike to breathtaking overlooks like Maryland Heights.
You can also enjoy the great outdoors by kayaking or walking a stretch of the Appalachian Trail, which runs right through town.
12. Great Falls Park, Virginia

Just over an hour from Harpers Ferry, Great Falls Park in Virginia offers jaw-dropping views of the Potomac River as it cascades through dramatic rocky gorges.
Located just outside Washington, D.C., this park is perfect for hiking, picnicking, or simply gazing at the roaring waterfalls from several easy-to-access overlooks.
For adventurers, the park features several rugged trails like the River Trail, which hugs the cliffs and provides stunning scenery.
It’s also a great spot to learn about the area’s history, including the remnants of the Patowmack Canal, one of George Washington’s early infrastructure projects.
13. Washington, D.C.

And finally, we end our road trip in the U.S. capital, Washington, D.C.
Start at the National Mall, where you can walk between the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the awe-inspiring U.S. Capitol.
Don’t miss the free museums, like the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of American History, where you can see treasures like the Wright brothers’ plane and the Star-Spangled Banner.

For food, grab a half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl or explore the diverse dining scene in neighborhoods like Georgetown or Adams Morgan.
End your day by catching the view of the city lights from the Tidal Basin or taking a nighttime stroll around the illuminated monuments.
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