East coast road trip November

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 road trip along the East Coast in November sounds like a fantastic adventure! While the weather can be unpredictable during this time of year, there's plenty to explore along the route. Whether you choose to head towards Florida or take a loop through the Carolinas and Tennessee, you'll experience a mix of historic cities, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant culture. Here are some thoughts and options for your trip:

Option 1: The Southern Coast (NY to Florida)
This route takes you through iconic cities with a rich history, perfect for a relaxed road trip. Here’s a possible itinerary:
- NY to Washington, D.C. – Start your journey by spending 1-2 nights in D.C. to explore the museums, monuments, and national landmarks. You can visit the National Mall, Smithsonian Museums, and take in some of the fall foliage if the weather permits.
- Washington, D.C. to Charleston, SC – A long but manageable drive. Spend 2-3 nights in Charleston, which has fantastic historic architecture, beautiful gardens, and a thriving food scene. November is a great time to visit as it’s typically less crowded than during the summer months.
- Charleston to Savannah, GA – Only a few hours away, Savannah offers beautiful parks, historic squares, and incredible southern charm. Two days here should be enough to see the city’s highlights like Forsyth Park, the River Street area, and Bonaventure Cemetery.
- Savannah to Florida (St. Augustine, Orlando, or Miami) – If you still want to reach Florida, St. Augustine offers a charming historical town with lots of Spanish colonial architecture, while Orlando has theme parks like Disney and Universal. Miami would be further south but still a lively city with beaches and cultural attractions. Weather in Florida can be unpredictable in November, but temperatures are usually milder than in the summer.
Option 2: A Loop Through SC, Charleston, Savannah, and Nashville
If you decide to skip Florida due to weather concerns, a loop through the Carolinas and Tennessee would make a great alternative, with more cool-weather friendly activities. Consider this route:
- NY to Charleston, SC – Spend a few nights exploring Charleston before heading north to Savannah.
- Charleston to Savannah – It’s an easy drive to Savannah. Again, spend 2-3 days soaking in the historic charm.
- Savannah to Nashville, TN – This will be a longer drive (about 5-6 hours), but Nashville is well worth it for its music scene, southern food, and historical attractions. 2-3 nights here would give you time to visit the Country Music Hall of Fame, tour the Ryman Auditorium, and experience the nightlife on Broadway.
- Optional Addition: Asheville, NC – If you have a little extra time, you could swing through Asheville, NC, a quirky mountain town known for its breweries, art scene, and the Biltmore Estate. It’s a nice detour before heading back north.

Weather Considerations: November can be a tricky month for weather on the East Coast. In the northern areas, like New York and Washington, D.C., it can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to 60s. In the Carolinas and Georgia, the weather is typically milder, in the 50s to 70s, though it can cool off in the evenings. Florida can be pleasant, with highs around 70s to 80s, but rain is always a possibility. A flexible itinerary will help you adjust to weather as needed.

In summary: Either route could work depending on your preferences. If you want to visit Florida, just be prepared for the possibility of mild weather and scattered showers. A loop through the Carolinas and Tennessee will likely offer a more consistent experience and allow you to explore a variety of cultural and musical hubs. Both options are full of rich history, unique experiences, and plenty of charm. Enjoy your road trip!