Travel the Northeastern Coast in 7 Days
Savor the cutest boardwalks along the shore, downtown locations, and all points in between.
Some of the most quaint, lovely communities in the entire country might be found dotting the Northeast. For those seeking hidden beaches and boardwalks, vibrant art scenes, small-town charm, and beachfront towns that embrace you as one of their own, this area is the perfect place to visit. Prepare yourself for an exciting seven-day seaside journey across Delaware, New Jersey, and Rhode Island!
Rehoboth Beach, Delaware
The classic boardwalk hamlet of Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, entices visitors with strolls down the shore, seaside air, and all the Northeastern food they could possibly desire. Take a stroll along the Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk and visit the neighborhood shops to start your tour. Are you up for another adventure? Kayak in the serene waters of Cape Henlopen State Park. Try some of the fresh seafood options available at Rehoboth Beach once you’ve worked up an appetite. Enjoy a couple pieces of the beloved, delicious salt water taffy from the area to cap it all off.
Where to Stay:
- Embrace the ocean air with a stay at Boardwalk Plaza, a Victorian-style hotel with modern amenities.
What to Eat:
- Delaware’s beloved fish and chips shop, go fish!, brings a bit of English charm to the East Coast.
- Serving regionally caught fish, locally grown fruits and veggies, and Delaware-raised meats, the Henlopen City Oyster House is not to be missed when visiting Rehoboth Beach.
- Salt water taffy is synonymous with the Northeast, and no one does it better than Dolle’s. The fourth-generation business is Ocean City’s original candy makers and have been serving sweet treats for over 100 years.
What to See:
- Beaches and boardwalks go hand in hand in the Northeast. The Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk is one of the city’s best attractions with local shops and storefronts. Don’t forget to grab a souvenir to take home!
- Kayak the calm waters of the Delaware Bay at Cape Henlopen State Park, one of the oldest state parks in Delaware. Kayak rentals are available at the park.
- History buffs will love visiting the Indian River Lifesaving Station Museum, which was used by a former government organization that was the precursor to the U.S. Coast Guard. Today, visitors can peruse old shipwrecks and memorabilia.
Asbury Park, New Jersey
Enjoy yourself more while kicking back in the sand at Asbury Park, New Jersey. This beach town has something for everyone, whether your preference is for the bustle of the boardwalk or simply a refreshing dip in the surf. Enjoy live music at the renowned Stone Pony, indulge in snacks and drinks at the Asbury Park Boardwalk, and play games at the Silverball Retro Arcade. Enjoy a warm cup of fresh clam chowder while you’re here.
Where to Stay:
- The Asbury Hotel bursts with life as vivid colors, breathtaking rooftop views and swanky bar options greet guests (an added perk is that it’s just steps from the beach).
What to Eat:
- From the hand-shucked clams used to make clam chowder to their savory crab cake bites, Mr. Shrimp serves food that can truly be called “homemade.”
- Located in the Grand Arcade at Asbury Park’s Convention Hall, Seahorse is a local favorite oceanfront bar and grill with upscale beach cuisine.
- Treat yourself to a delectable scoop at Eddie Confetti Ice Cream.
What to Do:
- Praised as the coolest place on Earth, Silverball Retro Arcade is a living tribute to beloved arcade games. Take your pinball pick on their many machines, and commemorate the day in the photo booth!
- The food options at the Asbury Park Boardwalk are as colorful and creative as the vibrant murals found nearby. Spend an afternoon sampling the different dining options and picking up souvenirs from the local shops.
- With a star-studded guestbook, The Stone Pony has been the anchor of the Asbury Park music scene since opening its doors in 1974. Bruce Springsteen, Southside Johnny and Steve Van Zandt have graced this venue and helped give rise to its notoriety.
Newport, Rhode Island
Our ideal day starts with a 5.5-kilometer stroll along the famous Cliff Walk (so bring walking shoes!). After taking in the picturesque morning views and scenic architecture, fuel up at one of Newport’s many brunch spots. Next, visit “The Breakers,” also known as The Vanderbilt’s summer cottage and a historic icon of Newport. No trip to the Northeast is complete without a visit to Newport, Rhode Island. This classic coastal town brings all the upscale offerings you’d expect from a yacht-filled marina town, balanced with the warm, humble hospitality that makes you feel right at home.
Where to Stay:
- Overnight at the Newport Marriott, to stay close to all the action, and have easy accessibility to Newport’s historic downtown district.
What to Eat:
- The quintessential Newport dining experience can be found at the Clarke Cooke House, a legendary restaurant celebrating New England charm. With dishes like peppered tuna steak and New England-style lobster salad roll, no one leaves hungry!
- New England is known for hearty chowders and fresh lobster rolls, and what better place to indulge than The Black Pearl, one of Newport’s best-known restaurants.
- Need a break from seafood? Enjoy a delicious burger at Mission. This well-loved establishment is best known for their house-made “Mission Sauce.” It’s a must try!
What to Do:
- There’s nothing quite as peaceful as a walk on the beach. Newport’s enchanting (and free) 3.5-mile Cliff Walk beacons weary travelers to relax and enjoy the seaside. Bring the camera!
- Experience a touch of Napa in New England with a visit to Newport Vineyards, a beverage and culinary destination with award-winning wine, fresh craft beer and farm-to-table dining.
- Experience the magic of the railroad on a unique journey with Rail Explorers. The pedal-powered vehicles take visitors alongside Narragansett Bay, offering iconic views of the Northeast.