From New York to Miami, the East side of the USA is absolutely jam packed with wonderful experiences to try out on holiday. Whether its food, culture, the natural world, or the hubbub of a city you’re after, you can do it all in just two weeks.
New York
New York is famous for its nightlife, music and art scene, museums, galleries, shopping, and soaring architecture to name but a few things. But you’ve heard this all before – it’s the most famous city in America. See The Big Apple for yourself and get off the beaten track before venturing down to the Appalachians.
The Appalachian Mountains
The natural beauty of this chain of mountains is outstanding, and you can get out and hike it for yourself with expert guided tours from providers like Trek America. The entire trail passes through Georgia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia, Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine – phew. But you can try out a smaller section of the 2200 mile walk to get a great taste of the Great Outdoors.
Deep South
The cuisine of the Deep South is one of America’s most famous offerings and a must-do if you fancy yourself as a foodie. The traditional dishes are as vast and varied as the areas they come from. In Tennessee, you get the culinary influences of creole and Cajun culture with the added bonus of Tennessee’s world-famous Jack Daniels Bourbon incorporated into many dishes. There are also many wineries and independent breweries in Tennessee that you can visit and sample the unique flavours. If you’re a fan of music, you must visit Nashville, quite aptly named ‘Music City.’
New Orleans
Visit the French Quarter, the oldest district of New Orleans, to see the beautiful buildings, sample delicious Louisiana cuisine in world class restaurants and check out the unparalleled jazz scene. Visit Irvin Mayfield’s Jazz Playhouse for a night out to remember with performances from big names and extraordinarily talented musicians. It’s not just Bourbon that’s a big deal in the Deep South; visit The Old Absinthe House for a traditionally served glass of ‘the green fairy’ and other spectacular cocktails.
Florida’s Everglades
Try an airboat trip on the water and see the alligators of the swamps and feast on jambalaya, a traditional creole dish which is influenced by French and Caribbean culture. The vast expanses of the bayou provide an otherworldly experience with trailing vines and sun soaked lakes where you might catch a glimpse of graceful manatees and butterflies.
Orlando
It goes without saying that Disney World is a place even adults won’t want to miss. There are loads of other places to visit, Universal Studio tours at Harry Potter World are a wonderful way for lovers of the books and films to enter into the wizarding world – great for kids and adults alike. If space travel is more your style, give the Kennedy Space Centre a visit.
Miami
It wouldn’t be right to go on holiday to the Sunshine State without a trip to the beach. Miami beach, a world famous destination for sunbathers and swimmers alike, boasts long expanses of soft white sand and warm blue ocean. It’s not all about the beach – there are so many things to keep you occupied while you’re here; excellent boutique shopping, dining and nightlife are all awaiting you.
With so much to see and do on the East Coast, you’ll surely fall in love with the US and be wanting more after a couple of weeks. This was just a little taster, but there is so much more to explore, so get out there and experience the real USA.
