From Maine to Miami: The Ultimate East Coast Road Trip Itinerary For Families

A mother and daughter posing in Washington DC.

Prepare for the ultimate East Coast road trip itinerary for families from Maine to Miami! Whether you want to hike in Acadia National Park, see the iconic attractions of NYC, or relax on a gorgeous Florida beach, this article covers some of the best places for families on the East Coast. You can choose a few of these places to stop during your road trip or you can separate this itinerary into two separate vacations. Either way, we’ve gathered a list of things to do with kids, as well as where to stay and other tips for taking an East Coast road trip with kids. Keep reading to plan your next epic adventure with kids on the road! 

First Leg Of The Trip: Acadia National Park to NYC

The first leg of our ultimate East Coast road trip itinerary for families is from Acadia National Park, right outside of Bar Harbor, to NYC! Of course, this is a rough suggestion for your family trip and a long road trip. You can break up the stops by doing this over a period of time or just picking whichever places interest your family the most. Keep reading to plan your next East Coast road trip with kids! 

Day 1-3: Acadia National Park

Three kids stand hand in hand while posing on a large boulder while hiking in Acadia National Park, one of the best places for an East Coast road trip for families.
Photo Courtesy: Sarah Casper

Acadia National Park is a great place to start your East Coast road trip itinerary for families! Located near Bar Harbor, we suggest spending at least two full days in the park, but you can fit the highlights into one day if you’d like. 

Two young boys run through playful waves on the Atlantic Ocean in Maine.
Photo Courtesy: Rebecca Rotem

Before your visit, stop by the visitor’s center to get Junior Ranger packets for the kids. Stars Over Sand Beach is an excellent program for little ones to learn more about the park accompanied by a ranger. There are also plenty of hikes for all skill levels, like the easy Ocean Path near Sand Beach. Families can also drive or hike to the top of Cadillac Mountain for amazing views overlooking the park. Or, walk along the path to Bar Island for tide-pooling, where you can spot colorful algae and marine animals at low tide. Jordan Pond is another popular spot, alongside the Jordan Pond House.

Where To Stay Near Acadia National Park

For first-time visitors, Bar Harbor is a great place to stay near Acadia National Park. From here, you can easily visit some of the park’s best attractions. There are hotels, Vrbo, and camping options in Bar Harbor.  

Day 4-5: Coastal Maine (Portland, Ogunquit, York)

Distance Between Acadia National Park and Portland, Maine: 3 Hours

A young girl walks down a lush trail in Mackworth Island State Park, near Portland, Maine.
Photo Courtesy: Antonia Grant

After departing from Bar Harbor, families can explore the beauty of coastal Maine. It takes around three hours to reach Portland, Maine from Bar Harbor, and the drive is very scenic. 

In Portland, families should definitely take a Maine Lobster Boat Tour, available through vendors such as Lucky Catch Cruises, Rocky Bottom Tours, and Casco Bay Custom Charters. Fishing lovers can also take a trip to nearby Cliff Island, accessible via the Casco Bay Island ferry from Portland’s harbor. Or, head to Mackworth Island State Park, located in Falmouth adjacent to Portland. Shopping enthusiasts will be impressed by the selection at the Freeport Outlets just north of the city, where you can find great deals on a variety of luxury stores. 

Distance Between Portland and Ogunquit: 1 Hour

A family of eight stands together smiling in front of a lighthouse in Cape Elizabeth, Maine.
Photo Courtesy: Jason Carlton

Ogunquit is a charming town on Maine’s southern coast. With sandy beaches, cultural activities, and multiple tasty restaurants, it’s a great place to stop on an East Coast itinerary for families. 

Lounge on the gorgeous Ogunquit Beach, which is large, clean, and bustling. Families can also sightsee on the Ogunquit Trolley or stroll the famous Marginal Way, a mile-long scenic cliff walk. Eventually, you’ll come upon the small fishing village of Perkins Cove. Families can also visit the Ogunquit Playhouse. If you have extra time on your vacation, consider visiting the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, taking a Finestkind Scenic Cruise, or heading to Footbridge Beach.

An African American toddler girls holds her arms wide open with a huge smile on her face, with Ogunquit Beach in Maine behind her.
Photo Courtesy: Danielle David

Distance Between Ogunquit and York: 10 Minutes

If you have extra time on your East Coast road trip itinerary for families, you could also stop in York located just south of Ogunquit.

Spend time sunbathing, strolling the shore, or trying water sports on Long Sands Beach. It also provides fantastic views of the Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse. Active families can also enjoy a beautiful hike at Mount Agamenticus, offering trails for all skill levels. Even little ones will be able to handle the 1.9-mile Ring Trail Loop, featuring a great view of Maine’s coastline. Animal enthusiasts can’t miss the chance to visit York’s Wild Kingdom Zoo and Fun Park! 

Where To Stay In Maine With Kids

Maine offers families plenty of kid-friendly accommodations. If you’re staying near Ogunquit, families love Cliff House Maine in Cape Neddick. Or, the Beachmere Inn, a Cape-Cod-style hotel overlooking the ocean. 

Day 6: Salem, Massachusetts

Distance From York, Maine to Salem, Massachusetts: 1 Hour

Several people are dressed in Halloween costumes for a parade in Salem.
Photo Courtesy: Destination Salem

Before making your way to Boston, you can make a pit stop in Salem and stay somewhere nearby for one night. Famous for its 17th-century Witch Trials, kids will love witnessing the place where this historical event happened. Plus, it’s less than an hour away from Boston. 

Start with a walking tour of this charming town, where you will learn all about its sordid history in spooky detail. Some other popular things to do with kids include visiting the Salem Witch Museum, the Witch Dungeon Museum, or Peabody Essex Museum. Don’t forget to stroll around Salem Willows Arcade and Park or the Salem Witch Village, where you can walk down spooky paths or through haunted houses. Of course, the city is particularly busy around Halloween in October, so make sure to plan ahead! 

Where To Stay In Salem With Kids

Families looking for a truly spooky stay in Salem can book a room at the Salem Inn, which is allegedly haunted! Or, check out Vrbo for more options. 

Day 8-9: Boston, Massachusetts 

Distance From Boston to Salem: 1 Hour

Three kids stand ashore in front of the Boston Duck Tour boat.
Photo Courtesy: Nophar Levy Palumbo

Spend at least two days of your East Coast road trip itinerary in Boston, known for its historical attractions, museums, and fantastic food! It’s around an hour from Salem, plus it’s near our next stop on this trip, Newport. 

A young child uses their arms to make the "T" in a large sign reading "BOSTON".
Photo Courtesy: Debbie Burkhart

Museum lovers can explore the Freedom Trail. This 2.5-mile trail takes you to 16 different historical sites, including Boston Common and the USS Constitution Museum. Then, be sure to add visiting the Museum of Fine Arts and Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum to your itinerary, too. For a more hands-on experience for younger kids, check out the Museum of Science. Sports-loving families can catch a baseball game at Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. Families with a foodie in tow can meander through “Little Italy”, where authentic Italian bakeries line the streets. Plus, Boston is filled with a scrumptious array of fresh seafood (including lobster!). 

Where To Stay In Boston With Kids

Boston has plenty of family-friendly hotels! For the most convenient locations, stay at the Fairmont Copley Plaza, the Kimpton Nine Zero Hotel, or the Boston Marriott Long Wharf. All boast kid-friendly amenities such as pools and are located in close proximity to the city’s best attractions. For more suggestions, consult our list of the best hotels in Boston for families

Day 10: Newport, Rhode Island

Distance From Boston to Newport: 1.5 hours

A beautiful fall view in Newport, RI, one of the best places for an East Coast road trip for families.
Photo Courtesy: Discover Newport

Continue your adventure in Newport, Rhode Island, known for its luxurious mansions, seaside views, and delicious seafood! It’s around an hour and a half from Boston in the car, and then you’ll be less than 3 hours away from NYC. 

Spend some time relaxing on Easton’s Beach. (Get some of the best lobsters in town from the concession stand!) Kids will also love riding the vintage carousel. For adventure-seeking families, embark on a thrilling sailing excursion across the sparkling waters of Narragansett Bay. Or, explore the rugged Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile trail overlooking luxurious mansions along the Atlantic Ocean. We recommend touring one of many public options, like The Breakers or The Elms. Or, hop on a Newport Trolley for an educational tour of Newport. Treat kids to a trip to Newport Creamery or Newport Fudge once you finish! 

Second Leg Of The Trip: NYC to Miami

Get ready for more coastal adventures on this East Coast road trip itinerary for families! From New York City to Miami, there are plenty of beautiful places to stop, appreciate the scenery, and enjoy some family fun. Here are some suggestions for the next part of your East Coast road trip with kids!

Day 11-12: New York City

Distance From Newport to NYC: 3 Hours

A dad and his young son look out onto a New York City skyline.

Of course, New York City is an iconic stop on any East Coast road trip itinerary for families. Depending on how long you want to stay here, we suggest settling down to take a break before embarking on the second leg of your journey down to Miami. 

A dad and his young son look at an art piece at MoMa.
Photo Courtesy: MoMa

Don’t miss famous destinations like Times Square, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty. These iconic, Instagram-able destinations are sure to excite your teen travelers. Little kids may prefer visiting the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, taking the ferry to the Statue of Liberty, or visiting Ellis Island. Then, for art lovers, a visit to The Metropolitan Museum of Art and MoMA is a must. Exploring Central Park, from Sheeps Meadow to the Bow Bridge, is also a must! Or, scour Chinatown for cheap eats (check out the area between Mott and Bowery by Pell Street) and stop for some gelato in Little Italy. You can also walk over the Brooklyn Bridge and take your kids to Brooklyn Bridge Park, which has nice views and lots of green space to run around. 

Where to Stay in New York City with Kids

In Lower Manhattan, we recommend the Millennium Downtown New York Hotel or the trendy Greenwich Hotel. In Midtown Manhattan, try the Loews Regency New York, Omni Berkshire Place, or the St. Regis New York. Remember to check out other NYC hotels with pools and spacious suites. NYC also has lots of affordable Vrbos in and around the outer boroughs.

Day 13: Hershey, Pennsylvania

Distance From NYC to Hershey: 3 Hours

A dad stands behind his son, sitting in a stroller, between two mascots at Hershey Park.
Photo Courtesy: Megan Tucker

Nestled in the heart of Hershey, Pennsylvania lies a chocolate lover’s paradise – Hershey Park. Around 3 hours from NYC, this amusement park is perfect for families who want to indulge in some fun and sugar-filled activities during their East Coast road trip itinerary for families.

Take a spin on classic carnival rides like the Whip and Tilt-A-Whirl or roller coasters like Fahrenheit and Skyrush. Kids can also explore water rides at The Boardwalk. Once you’re done soaking up some sun on the lazy river, head over to ZooAmerica for an up-close and personal encounter with wildlife. And of course, no visit to Hershey Park would be complete without indulging in some of their famous chocolate treats. Families can even create their own custom candy bars at the Create Your Own Candy Bar attraction!

Where to Stay in Hershey with Kids

There are three official Hersheypark resorts – The Hotel Hershey, Hershey Lodge, and Hersheypark Camping Resort. Each offers benefits, such as reduced-price tickets, free parking, and extended hours. 

In the Hershey-Harrisburg area, check out Homewood Suites by Hilton Harrisburg East-Hershey AreaResidence Inn by Marriott Harrisburg Hershey, Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Harrisburg Northeast, and Hilton Garden Inn Hershey.

Day 14: Lancaster, Pennsylvania

Distance From Hershey to Lancaster: 45 Minutes

Two boys look out the back of an Amish buggy while visiting Lancaster, PA.
Photo Courtesy: Megan Tucker

Whether you’re looking for history, arts, or just some good old-fashioned fun, Lancaster has something for everyone in the family! Plus, it’s less than an hour from Hershey and on the way to Philadelphia. 

The Amish Farm and House is a great place to start your visit to Lancaster. Families can take a wagon ride, milk a cow, or even churn their own butter! Lancaster is also home to several family-friendly museums, including the Lancaster Science Factory and the Lancaster History Center. Art & Glassworks is another must-see, featuring whimsical pieces of glass from all over the world. Nearby, families will also find the Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania in Strasburg. The Lancaster Central Market is another great place to take kids. Lancaster also has a number of parks and playgrounds, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants that are perfect for families. 

Day 15-17: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Distance From Lancaster to Philadelphia: 45 Minutes

A family of three walks down a historic street in Philadelphia together. It's one of the best places for an East Coast road trip for families!

Known as the “City of Brotherly Love,” Philly boasts an array of fun-filled attractions that are sure to keep both adults and children entertained. It’s also renowned for its historical significance and diverse cultural offerings! 

Kids will be amazed by the stories of our founding fathers and the significance of historical sites such as Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Betsy Ross House. Of course, you can’t leave Philadelphia without visiting a museum. Families love the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the Franklin Institute, the Museum of the American Revolution, and the Eastern State Penitentiary. Other unique sites are sure to please families, too, between Shane Confectionery, America’s oldest candy store, The Magic Gardens, and Fireman’s Hall Museum. For young kids, Philadelphia also puts families close to other destinations like Sesame Place.

Where to Stay in Philadelphia with Kids

Philadelphia has plenty of places to stay with kids! Families love The Sonesta Philadelphia because it has the largest heated outdoor pool in the city. Meanwhile, the Four Seasons Philadelphia has the highest pool – on the 57th floor. In the Old City, stay at the conveniently located Wyndham Philadelphia Historic District. Check out our list of where to stay in Philadelphia with kids for more options!

Day 18-19: Washington DC

Distance From Philadelphia to DC: 2 hours and 45 Minutes

A family of four stands holding hands facing the Washington Monument in the background.
Photo Courtesy: Samantha D’Onofrio

Less than three hours away from Philadelphia, Washington DC is home to iconic American landmarks, a variety of kid-friendly museums, and so much more. No wonder it’s a stop on our East Coast road trip itinerary for families! 

Visit the National Mall, showcasing monuments like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Families can also head over to the free Smithsonian Institution museums. There are 19 in total, ranging from the National Museum of American History to the National Postal Museum. Or, tour the U.S. Capitol Building or the White House! The National Zoo is also a great place for animal lovers to spend an afternoon. Looking for more things to do in Washington DC with kids? Take a stroll through one of D.C.’s many parks or gardens, such as Rock Creek Park or the United States Botanic Garden. Or, rent a paddleboat and explore the Tidal Basin in Washington’s Southwest Waterfront neighborhood – you’ll get great views of the city from the water!

Where to Stay in DC with Kids

For an indoor pool for little ones to splash in, visit The Watergate Hotel. Meanwhile, The Ritz-Carlton Washington DC offers a special welcome package for little ones, plus fun activities like a scavenger hunt. For more hotel suggestions, check out our list of kid-friendly hotels in DC. Or, if you want a home and apartment rental, check out our Airbnb, Vrbo, and our recommendations for the best neighborhoods to stay in while in DC.

Day 20-21: Outer Banks, North Carolina

A mom and toddler son build a sand castle on a beach in the Outer Banks while staying at the Sanderling Resort Oasis Suites Hotel.
Photo Courtesy: Sanderling Resort Oasis Suites Hotel

Distance From DC to the Outer Banks: 5.5 Hours

Once you’re done exploring Washington DC, continue for around 5 and a half hours to reach The Outer Banks in North Carolina! This string of barrier islands features miles of pretty coastline dotted with charming towns and plenty of kid-friendly activities. 

From the calm waters of Corolla Beach to surfing at Kitty Hawk, Nags Head, or Kill Devil Hills Beach, families will love visiting during the summer. History buffs can even see the Wright Brothers National Memorial. Or, tour the area’s local lighthouses. Of course, kids will love sliding down the super-tall sand dunes at Jockey’s Ridge State Park! Animal lovers can visit the Pea Island National Wildlife Refuge or take a 4×4 Tour in Corolla. Then, enjoy more family fun like mini-golf and arcade games at Paradise Golf & Arcade

Where To Stay Near The Outer Banks With Kids

Provided by agencies such as Twiddy and OBX Lodging, rental homes are usually more popular than resorts. There are also more than 50 local agencies in addition to sites like Airbnb and Vrbo. However, if you’re really craving a resort experience, we recommend the Sanderling Resort, Oasis Suites Hotel, TownPlace Suites Kill Devil Hills, and Hilton Garden Inn Kitty Hawk. All feature a more traditional hotel setting, with rooms near the beach. 

Optional Detour: Day 22-24: Smoky Mountains, Tennessee/North Carolina

Distance From The Outer Banks to the Smoky Mountains: 5.5 Hours

A stunning sunrise over the Smoky Mountains at Clingman's Dome, featuring hues of orange, pink, and blue.
Photo Courtesy: Kelli Levesque Wein

Though it’s a bit out of the way from the coast, if you have extra time on your East Coast road trip itinerary for families, you can take a detour to the Smoky Mountains. 

Straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park has many activities for families to enjoy. Take a short hike to scenic overlooks like Juney Whank Falls. Or, ​​check out areas like Cataloochee and Cades Cove to spot white-tailed deer, black bears, raccoons, and Wild Turkeys. In nearby Gatlinburg, families can visit the Gatlinburg Skylift Park, enjoy mountaintop views from Ober Gatlinburg Amusement and Activity Park, and see various sea creatures up close at Ripley’s Aquarium of the Smokies

Day 24-25: Charleston, South Carolina

Distance From The Smoky Mountains To Charleston: 5 Hours

A young girl wearing a colorful shirt standing in front of a street lined with colorful buildings in Charleton, South Carolina, one of the most charming towns to visit with kids.
Photo Courtesy: Alyssa Holyfiedl Groeteke

Charleston is a South Carolina city rich in history and culture, offering plenty of activities for families with children. It makes a great stop before you continue into Georgia and Florida on your East Coast road trip itinerary for families! 

Wind through the cobblestone streets of Charleston’s historic district to appreciate the lavish southern homes on foot or explore by horse-drawn carriage. Don’t forget to visit the Charleston City Market, where you can shop for souvenirs and sample local cuisine! To learn more about Charleston’s history, visit Patriots Point or The Charleston Tea Garden. Then, visit the South Carolina Aquarium to see marine life up close. Or, head to the Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry for interactive exhibits. Families can also spend a day at the beach on Sullivan’s Island or Isle of Palms. Don’t miss ice cream from Kilwins, a local favorite (offering pecan pralines too!). 

Where to Stay in Charleston with Kids

If you want family-friendly accommodations in Charleston, we recommend Charleston Place, a Belmond Hotel, located in historic Charleston. There’s also Wild Dunes Resort – Sweetgrass Inn and Boardwalk Inn, The Restoration, and The Mills House Charleston. For more hotels in Charleston, check out our article on the best hotels in Charleston for families. Or, get a bigger place by searching Airbnb and Vrbo.

Day 25-26: Savannah, Georgia

Distance From Charleston to Savannah: 2 Hours

Savannah's River Street, featuring the iconic cobblestones and historic shop fronts. It's one of the best places for an East Coast road trip for families.

Another city filled with southern charm that families love visiting is Savannah, Georgia. It’s around 2 hours south of Charleston, and offers a scenic place to rest on your way to Florida. 

Start by exploring Savannah’s Historic District. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride, tour one of the old plantation houses, or just wander around and soak up all the historic architecture. Or, combine a visit to some of the best landmarks in the city, like the Davenport House, on an Old Town Trolley Tour. Visit one of the city’s many parks, like Forsyth Park. The Ellis Square Splash Pads, located in the popular Ellis Square, offer kids the perfect respite from the sun. Then, enjoy calm waters and soft sands on one of the nearby beaches on Tybee Island. Don’t forget about Savannah’s wonderful museums too, from Savannah’s History Museum to the Children’s Museum in Tricentennial Park. End your day with a sweet treat from Leopold’s Ice Cream or River Sweet Treats

Where To Stay In Savannah With Kids

Many people who travel in larger groups also choose to rent homes from Airbnb or Vrbo in Savannah’s surrounding areas for more space. For a hotel stay, you can also select from more affordable boutique options like the Olde Harbour Inn or the Kimpton Brice Hotel. Or, for more suggestions, check out our list of the best hotels in Savannah for families

Day: 27-28: Atlanta, Georgia

Distance From Savannah to Atlanta: 4 Hours

Kids pet and play with goats inside a pen at Zoo Atlanta, one of the best places for an East Coast road trip for families.
Photo Courtesy: Zoo Atlanta

Though it would be a detour from the coast, families who want to add another major city to their East Coast itinerary can also make a stop in Atlanta, Georgia, which is around 4 hours away from Savannah. From world-class museums and historic attractions to outdoor activities and lots of fantastic food, your family is sure to have a memorable vacation here!

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Atlanta is the World of Coca-Cola, where kids can find interactive exhibits all about their favorite beverage. The Georgia Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is definitely a must-see for any family visiting Atlanta. Zoo Atlanta is also worth a visit for young animal lovers to spot lions, tigers, gorillas, and more. The Center for Puppetry Arts is another great option for families with young kids. They also have a giant puppet store on site where you can purchase your very own puppet! With its many nearby parks and green spaces, like the Atlanta Botanical Garden or Centennial Olympic Park, Atlanta is a great place to get some fresh air and exercise. 

Plus, there are plenty of things to do outside of the city limits as well. Try taking the kids to Stone Mountain Park or Six Flags Over Georgia for a day of fun! 

Where To Stay In Atlanta With Kids

Need a kid-friendly hotel in Atlanta? Check out The Hyatt Regency AtlantaAtlanta Marriott Marquis, and The Ritz-Carlton, Atlanta, which all have convenient options downtown. Or, check out our list of the best hotels in Atlanta for families!

Day 28-29: Amelia Island, Florida

Distance From Atlanta to Amelia Island: 2 Hours

Mother and daughter walking a horse on the beach at sunset on Amelia Island, one of the best places for an East Coast road trip for families.

Once you reach Florida, spend at least a day or two on Amelia Island. Located near major cities such as Jacksonville, this picturesque island off the coast of Florida offers everything a family could want in a beach vacation.

Families with young children will love Main Beach Park. For older kids, there’s plenty of room to run around and a nearby skate park to make friends. Downtown, you’ll also find Fernandina Beach, which features shallow water for little ones. Plus, a pirate-themed playground nearby! Seaside Park is located at the end of a long boardwalk, an excellent spot for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Fort Clinch State Park is another great option for families who want to avoid crowds. To appreciate the scenery, take the Egan Creek’s Greenway, a kid-friendly loop around Egan’s Creek. Watch out for bobcats, alligators, and more wildlife along the way! 

Animal lovers may also fancy a visit to the Amelia Island Nature Center. Or, learn more about Amelia Island’s history at the American Beach Museum and the Pippi Longstocking’s House. 

Where To Stay On Amelia Island With Kids

If you need somewhere to stay on Amelia Island with kids, we recommend The Ritz Carlton, Amelia Island. Families can also stay at Omni Amelia Island. Or, rent your perfect home from Vrbo now.

Day 29-30: Orlando, Florida

Distance From Amelia Island to Orlando: 3 Hours

A young girl holds out a hand to Spiderman, who does the same at Universal Orlando, one of the best places for an East Coast road trip for families.
Photo Courtesy: Universal Orlando Resort

Driving through Florida with kids definitely necessitates a visit to Orlando! This central Florida gem boasts a location near some of the country’s best theme parks, making it a must-visit on any East Coast road trip itinerary for families. 

One way to avoid long lines at Walt Disney World is to plan which parks you’ll visit, and arrive before they open. This will help with parking, lines, and your overall experience at Disney. Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot are three popular parks that fill up quickly, so plan accordingly. Kids will love returning to school and sharing their favorite Disney stories with their classmates! Finally, you can find more research for your Disney family vacation here.  Orlando also houses numerous family-friendly water parks such as Aquatica Orlando and Volcano Bay – perfect for cooling off under the warm sun! 

Where To Stay In Orlando With Kids

There are plenty of deluxe hotels in Orlando, like Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and SpaFamilies who want to save on accommodations can check out Disney’s moderate hotels such as Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, and Disney’s Port Orleans, Riverside. Read our list of the Best Disney Deluxe Hotels For Families, Best Disney Moderate Resorts For Families, or Best Disney Value Resorts For Families here!

Day 31-33: Miami, Florida

Distance From Orlando to Miami: 4 Hours

Two Buys running on the Beach in Miami, one of the best places for an East Coast road trip for families.

What better place to end your epic family road trip than Miami? Known for its gorgeous beaches, great food, and ritzy atmosphere, this vibrant city has plenty to offer kids of all ages. 

South Beach is one of the most popular places in Miami, and it’s no surprise! This dynamic stretch of beach has beautiful white sand, clear blue water, and plenty of restaurants and shops to keep you busy nearby on Ocean Drive. Over on the mainland, families can check out the street art and murals in Wynwood at Wynwood Walls and the Museum Of Graffiti. Or, check out the foodie scene in ethnic enclaves like Little Havana or Little Haiti, which feature a mix of great restaurants, art, and culture. For parents, there are also plenty of opportunities to enjoy the city’s nightlife, with its many bars and clubs.

Where To Stay In Miami With Kids

Need somewhere to stay in Miami with kids? Most of the luxury hotels are located in South Beach. Book your next vacation at The Fountainbleu, The W Hotel, or 1 Hotel Miami Beach. For more options, check out our list of the best hotels in Miami for families! 

Happy Travels!

A young boy explores Old Fort Jackson on a sunny day while looking at the moat around the buildings.
Photo Courtesy: Jessica Christen

We hope you liked this Ultimate East Coast Road Trip Itinerary For Families! From Maine to Miami, the coast is packed with beautiful sights and family fun awaiting you and your kids. Enjoy your next family road trip!

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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The Families Love Travel Team has a zest for life and an even bigger passion for globetrotting! Comprised of real-life travel professionals, we work hard behind the scenes to provide dynamic solutions for adventuring with children. Our enthusiastic team understands the challenges that often accompany traveling with kids and is committed to making Families Love Travel an inclusive space to convey these experiences.