5 Must Visit Alternative Destinations on the US East Coast
Curated by The Coyote Trip, our post-camp tours partner for summer 2021.
The East Coast is packed with some of America’s most stellar sights.
Times Square, Liberty Bell, The White House, Lincoln Memorial and The Statue of Liberty are just a handful of illustrious spots to visit on an East Coast America Tour after summer camp. Here at The Coyote Trip, we make sure to visit these spots on our US East Coast road trip tours.
Yet, there are some hidden gems that don’t get the same airtime, and this blog will focus on those few places and experiences that we also visit. These places help showcase some of the awesome aspects of the culture of the Eastern half of America.
Our favourite experiences tend to be those that are a bit different and offer fresh insight into the states, and we’re sure they’ll be your favourite, too.
Fishtown, Philadelphia
This hipster district is one of our favourite places in Philly’.
The city as a whole may not quite have the star appeal of some of the others we visit on our US East Coast road trip, but it’s allure means it’s a favourite of here at The Coyote Trip (that’s not just due to the delicious Philly Cheese Steaks, we promise!) You’ll find there’s a whole load of beautiful architecture to take in and a rich, fascinating history to absorb. What’s more – there are emerging districts like Fishtown to explore.
Fishtown is a good symbol of Philly’s re-emergence in the last few decades. It used to be associated with crime and poverty, but it has undergone a continual evolution to become a magnet for young people. It now hosts wine bars, artisan coffee shops, boutique shops and even an Argentine tango dance school.
The food is eclectic and diverse and there’s a real buzz about this part of town in the evenings. On our trips, we check out a few local hospitality hotspots and enjoy the atmosphere that always follows.
You’ll love it that much that you’ll no doubt say “I can see myself living here” at some point, and Fishtown’s growing popularity is best shown by the fact that property prices have tripled in the last 10 years.
Freedom Tower, New York
There’s a range of fun and engaging activities to be had in New York, as many who go to summer camp locally will know.
Strolling along the skyscraper-filled streets of Manhattan, bar-hopping in Brooklyn and taking in the serenity of Central Park. We, of course, do all these things on our tour, but we also take the time to learn more about New York’s recent tragic history.
For those old enough to remember – the 9/11 attacks will be etched permanently on the memory. The atrocities were beamed around the world and were viewed as an attack on the West and democratic values. The attacks left an indelible mark on New York City and had a profound impact on the city.
We visit the site of where the Twin Towers once stood. At this site, you can visit The Freedom Tower, where you will be able to see panoramic views of the urban majesty beneath, and the 9/11 Memorial. This memorial is respectfully done and offers a chance for visitors to pay their respects and to learn about the remarkable feats of heroism that helped saved many lives.
New Yorkers are proud of how their city responded and this area gives an insight into the awful reality of what it faced.
Provincetown, Cape Cod
This is a truly stunning spot to unwind and it’s easy to see why it’s a real favourite on any US East Coast road trip. This was one of the places where JFK would go to unwind, so you’ll be in good company if you are a fan of this area.
Within Cape Cod, there’s the charming town of Provincetown or ‘P-town’ as it’s affectionately known. Full of quaint shops, artsy cafes and shore-side bars - this a wonderful place to spend a couple of days. There are some beautiful hiking and cycling close by and some striking lighthouses to discover. In the evening, it’s the perfect place to grab a drink and sample some local seafood.
If you’re considering a US east coast road trip, then be sure to include Provincetown on the itinerary.
The jazz scene in Washington D.C
D.C may be best known for political in-fighting and deal-making, but there’s also a glamorous side to this world-renowned city.
The monuments may be the big draw and we’ll be sure to admire them in all their glory. Yet, it’s important to see the other side of D.C and we encourage you to check out some of the city’s other attractions.
One thing that is less well known about the nation’s capital is the thriving jazz scene. It has played host to jazz legends like Duke Ellington and continues to attract talent from around the country. It’s the perfect place to relax after a day’s sight-seeing.
What’s more- the city drinks more wine per capita than any other place in America – so if it’s for you, live like a local and have a glass!
Improv comedy venues in Boston
After a day at work in The Coyote Trip’s offices – we love to go out in Boston and one of our most popular activities is an evening at a local comedy club.
You are spoilt for choice here with a fair few options around, with lots offering an Improv Comedy night for around $15-20. You’ll get to see a talented troupe of performers take on a series of skits and they’ll draw inspiration from their audience.
Every show is different but the standard tends to be high and it’s the place where young Bostonian comics cut their teeth.
Although a US East Coast road trip has huge “highlight reel” attractions, it also displays a dazzling array of other opportunities, ones which regularly go under the radar.
After camp, make exploring a priority. With the right knowledge and the right tour guide, you’ll become acquainted with the areas that locals love, but the tourists never know.
