By: Martins G.
The East Coast of the United States of America is rich in both the nation’s early history and strikingly modern cities. For example, Boston and Philadelphia feature tourist attractions that will satisfy your curiosity about the nation’s colonial past. Also, the East Coast cities are booming with culture, art, restaurants, bars, and a wide array of attractions.
In addition, the U.S. East Coast is the home to the country’s biggest cities such as New York City and Washington, DC. While New York City is the cultural and financial capital of the country, and one of the most visited cities in the world, Washington, DC is the capital of the United States and the seat of the U.S. government.
However, if you would like to explore the East Coast of the United States of America on a budget-friendly note, we believe that you should consider visiting the following cities.
- Manchester, New Hampshire
This New Hampshire town is located only one hour north of Boston. Once a mill town, Manchester still features a lot of its original architecture. However, these charming red-brick buildings have been turned into modern bars and restaurants, offering a great selection of local, national, and international food and an upscale entertainment.
If you stroll down to the west side of Merrimack River, you will have a unique opportunity to enjoy the stunning view of the townscape. In addition, you can visit the Currier Museum of Art and check out an impressive collection of displayed artworks and special exhibitions.
New Hampshire has 18 miles of seacoast, which is the shortest of any coastal state nationwide. Nevertheless, there is plenty of easily reachable areas to visit and enjoy New Hampshire’s stunning nature.
The region’s natural attractions are a great setting for exciting low-cost outdoor activities such as ocean kayaking, hiking on the Appalachian Trail, sailing, and tours to historic districts. In addition, you can visit fun-filled water and theme parks with your kids or sunbathe at one of the beautiful beaches by the ocean or New Hampshire’s lakes. Whether you come to explore the colonial history or to enjoy thrilling outdoor adventures, Manchester, New Hampshire has a lot to offer.
- Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Myrtle Beach will welcome you with sixty miles of coastline, which makes it an ideal summer destination. The long stretch of sandy beaches offers a variety of vacation accommodation as well as a great number of restaurants with the fresh coastal cuisine, bustling bars, delightful souvenir stands, and shops.
In addition, a must-visit in Myrtle Beach includes its thrilling amusement parks and outlet malls that offer a year-round budget-friendly fun for the whole family.
During the months of September and October, Myrtle Beach area celebrates “60 More Days of Summer” offering special deals, activities, and events at discounted prices, which makes it a perfect last-minute beach escape.
Whether you are looking for affordable accommodation, fun with or without the kids, great dining options or exciting outdoor activities, Myrtle Beach Area, South Carolina is a great wallet-conscious destination.
- Biloxi, Mississippi
If you are looking for a budget-friendly coastal gateway add Biloxi, Mississippi on your East Coast tour list. Here you will find a variety of cultural sites, good restaurants, and an inexpensive beach access. Check out the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum and enjoy its exhibits of seafood-processing and boatbuilding. Also, don’t miss visiting Biloxi Lighthouse next to Biloxi Beach on the Mississippi Sound. Departure for Deer Island and enjoy observing loggerhead turtles and pelicans that have found their shelter there
Of course, while in the town, visit one of its popular casinos.
- Tampa, Florida
Fall is definitely a great time of the year to visit this Florida gateway. From the amusement parks and aquarium to Busch Gardens – you will enjoy your low-cost stay in Tampa during the fall season. While Tampa Downtown features high-rise office blocks, old quarters such as Old Hyde Park boost historic buildings and tourist sights.
If you are looking for shopping and dining opportunities, visit Tampa’s famous Franklin Street.
And if you are coming with kids, a definite must-see includes Busch Gardens, African-themed adventure park that offers a great entertainment for the whole family with thrill rides, exotic animals, and live music. Take a safari and observe giraffes, elephants, kangaroos and its other residents.
There are also a great variety of thrilling activities at the park. However, the park is best known for its roller coasters, so check them out!
- Bar Harbor, Maine
Skirted by Acadia National Park on one side and Frenchman Bay on the other, Bar Harbor, Maine is famous for its striking natural beauty. This destination is absolutely stunning in summer. Lots of tourists come to Bar Harbor, Maine each summer to enjoy its cool ocean breezes and dry water.
Nevertheless, any time of the year is a great time to visit this budget-friendly destination. Bar Harbor is an excellent gateway to the cliffs and mountains of Acadia National Park and its Cadillac Mountain. Visit this mountain for some of the best hiking you’ll ever experience. In addition, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the stunning views of the bay, the Cranberry Islands, and the town. Or grab a bike and go on a biking tour down the Shore Path along the bay and enjoy the panorama of the Atlantic Ocean and the Porcupine Islands.
If you are an international traveler eager to travel to the United States, it is likely that you will need to fill in ESTA application (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). The Visa Waiver Program is an online application system that enables citizens from one of the 38 Visa Waiver Program Countries to enter the States for business or tourism purposes for up to 90 days without obtaining a U.S. visa. ESTA Travel Authorization allows the U.S. government to pre-screen the travelers before they depart for the United States.
This means that you can travel to the United States on a short notice and without obtaining a visa in advance. If you are an international traveler entering the U.S. by air or sea under the visa waiver program, you are required to hold a valid ESTA travel authorization. It is recommended that you apply for a Travel Authorization at least 72 hours prior to your departure.
