East coast road trip

Question

Looking to see if anyone has done any similar road trip or any other thoughts? Planning 10-14 days with 1-3 nights in each.

Originally leaving from ny and was planning to stop DC, Charleston, Savannah and end in Florida before returning although not sure it worth stopping in Florida if weather is only so so. Alternatively not sure if it would be better to do a loop SC, Charleston, Savannah, Nashville?

I know it’s a weird month for weather for basically everywhere could be warm could be cold but work only allows for this month the second half the year.

Thanks!

Answer

A 10–14 day East Coast road trip from New York gives you plenty of options, but the route and timing will depend on how much driving you want to do each day and your tolerance for variable weather in the second half of the year. Since you’re considering March, April, or early spring-type months, the weather can be unpredictable: DC and the Carolinas may be cool, while Florida can be mild but not necessarily beach-weather warm.

Here’s a breakdown of possible routes and considerations:

Option 1: NY → DC → Charleston → Savannah → Florida
- Pros: Classic Southern route with lots of history, culture, and charm. You can see major historic cities and enjoy southern architecture, dining, and museums.
- Cons: Depending on your Florida destination, weather could be cooler or rainy, and beaches may not be enjoyable yet. Driving from Savannah to Florida adds significant mileage.
- Suggested stops:
  - Washington DC: 2–3 nights to cover monuments, museums, and neighborhoods.
  - Charleston, SC: 2 nights for historic district, plantations, and riverfront.
  - Savannah, GA: 1–2 nights for historic squares, Forsyth Park, and riverfront.
  - Florida (St. Augustine or Jacksonville recommended if you include Florida): 1–2 nights.
Option 2: NY → DC → Charleston → Savannah → Nashville → NY loop
- Pros: Focuses on a mix of southern coastal charm and country music culture in Nashville. Eliminates the risk of chilly Florida weather.
- Cons: Longer drives between Savannah and Nashville (~8 hours), so may be more tiring. Less time for beaches or subtropical scenery.
- Suggested stops:
  - DC: 2–3 nights
  - Charleston: 2 nights
  - Savannah: 1–2 nights
  - Nashville: 2–3 nights for music scene, historic sites, and vibrant downtown.

Additional considerations:

Driving distances: Aim for 3–5 hours of driving per day to avoid fatigue, which may influence how many nights you spend in each city.
Weather: Southern cities can still be cool and rainy in early spring. Bring layered clothing and check local forecasts before booking.
Activities: Incorporate walking tours, historic districts, and local cuisine. Include a few outdoor activities if the weather allows, but have indoor alternatives like museums or music venues.
Flexibility: If you’re unsure about Florida, consider leaving that leg open to decide closer to departure based on weather.
Booking: Make lodging reservations early, especially in popular historic districts like Charleston and Savannah, which can fill up even in the shoulder season.

Suggested approach: Focus on fewer cities with more time in each for a richer experience rather than rushing. A possible 12-day itinerary could be: 3 nights DC → 2 nights Charleston → 2 nights Savannah → 3 nights Nashville → return to NY, which balances driving, sightseeing, and relaxation.

Overall, both routes are feasible, but if weather and relaxed driving are priorities, skipping Florida in favor of Nashville may provide a more predictable and enjoyable experience.

East coast road trip

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