United States-5-day-itinerary

🇺🇸 5-Day US Adventure: East Coast Highlights

This itinerary focuses on the vibrant East Coast, offering a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Visa Requirements:

  • For most nationalities, a valid passport and ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) are required to enter the United States. Check the US Department of State website for specific requirements based on your nationality: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html.

Transportation:

  • Flights: Major airports in the East Coast include Boston Logan International (BOS), New York John F. Kennedy (JFK), and Philadelphia International (PHL).
  • Trains: Amtrak offers comfortable and scenic train routes connecting major cities on the East Coast. Consider a Northeast Regional pass for flexibility.
  • Subways/Public Transport: Most major cities have extensive subway systems for efficient city exploration.

Day 1: Historic Boston

  • Morning: Arrive in Boston (BOS). Check into your hotel near downtown.
  • Afternoon: Walk the Freedom Trail, visiting iconic sites like Paul Revere’s House, the Old North Church, and Faneuil Hall Marketplace.
  • Evening: Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at Quincy Market and soak in the lively atmosphere.

Things to know: Boston is walkable, but consider using the “T” (subway) for longer distances.

Day 2: New York City Buzz

  • Morning: Take an Amtrak train from Boston to New York City. Check into your hotel near Times Square.
  • Afternoon: Explore Central Park, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the American Museum of Natural History.
  • Evening: Catch a Broadway show in the Theater District and enjoy dinner at one of the many diverse restaurants in the city.

Things to know: Purchase a MetroCard for easy access to the subway system. Be prepared for crowds!

Day 3: Statue of Liberty & Brooklyn Bridge

  • Morning: Take the Staten Island Ferry for free views of the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
  • Afternoon: Walk or bike across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge for stunning skyline panoramas.
  • Evening: Enjoy a rooftop dinner with breathtaking city views in a neighborhood like Williamsburg or Dumbo.

Things to know: Book ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak season.

Day 4: Philadelphia History & Cheesesteaks

  • Morning: Take an Amtrak train from New York City to Philadelphia. Check into your hotel near Independence Hall.
  • Afternoon: Visit Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell, key symbols of American independence. Explore the historic cobblestone streets of Old City.
  • Evening: Indulge in a classic Philly cheesesteak sandwich from a local institution like Pat’s or Geno’s.

Things to know: Philadelphia is relatively compact and easily walkable.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy breakfast at Reading Terminal Market, a historic indoor market with diverse food stalls.
  • Afternoon: Depart from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) or take the train back to your original departure city.

Additional Notes:

  • This is just a sample itinerary and can be customized based on your interests and time constraints.

  • Consider purchasing a CityPASS for discounts on attractions in major cities.

  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking, as you’ll be doing a lot of exploring!

  • Be aware of tipping culture in the US – tip 15-20% at restaurants and bars.