East Coast gems: Nine perfect weekend escapes this side of the Atlantic

Nothing says weekend escape quite like jumping in your rental car and seeing where the winds take you. And if you’re on the East Coast, you can hit the road in one state and end up in an entirely different one – with its own character, delicacies, and history – all in one day. Along the way? Lots and lots of incredible towns and cities that highlight the unique melting pot that is the United States.

Where will your weekend take you? Explore these nine spots in your Enterprise rental car and find yourself falling in love over and over again.

Leave all pretenses at the door when you visit Portland. This coastal city – the largest in Maine – offers stunning ocean views, quaint cobblestone streets, and a casual laid back vibe. Head to the Old Port District to browse through one of their many artisanal shops, bookstores, restaurants, and brewpubs. For a quintessential Northeast experience, be sure to visit the Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse still in continuous use in the United States and visit the childhood home of famed poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. It wouldn’t be a trip to Maine without getting out on the ocean. There’s a variety of scenic cruises, whale watches, and ferries that allow you to take in the scenery, watch the lobster boats, or visit the islands of Casco Bay.

Historic lighthouses, endless sand dunes, seaside cottages…it doesn’t get more New England than Nantucket. A former whaling port, the 50-mile island is now a sought-after vacation destination and designated National Historic District. Head downtown for upscale shopping and seafood bites. Order sandwiches from Millie’s and take them to Madaket Beach for a picnic then indulge in a scoop or two from The Juice Bar Homemade Ice Cream. Book a room at the iconic White Elephant, a luxury hotel with incredible harbor views and find yourself settling into island life.

The The Hamptons have long been known for being a playground for the New York elite. A popular summer destination, you’ll find there’s room for everyone to play. Enjoy fine dining at one of the many high-end restaurants or dance the night away at one of its premier nightclubs. Spend your days relaxing on one of the sandy beaches or take a drive through Southampton, East Hampton, and Montauk and see what you find. Stay at one of the many quaint – but upscale – hotels that give the area its charm.

Rhode Island may be the smallest state, but it’s packed full of things to discover. Providence seamlessly blends historical sites and museums with contemporary attractions, art galleries, and restaurants. The home of both Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), the city is ever evolving while remaining true to its roots. Travel back in time during a walking tour of historic Federal Hill and grab a pastry at Pastiche. Spend an afternoon browsing through the immense book collection at Providence Athenæum then stroll onto Benefit Street and feel all the New England feels.

If you’re seeking some nostalgic fun in the sun, walking or biking along the 3-mile stretch of the Virginia Beach Boardwalk will make you feel like a kid again. Wave to King Neptune’s Statue as you take in the white sand beaches, seafood restaurants, and free entertainment. Beyond the Boardwalk, Virginia Beach offers a variety of activities the whole family will love. At the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center, you can get up close and personal with sharks and sea creatures or take to the sky on a zipline at the neighboring Adventure Park. Looking for other ways to blend history, the outdoors, and fun? Plan a hike at First Landing State Park or tour the Military Aviation Museum.

Imagine a place where you can experience the thrills and chills of a classic amusement park one day and find yourself walking amongst wild horses the next. You can do all this and more in Ocean City. Soak up the sun at Ocean City Beach and enjoy saltwater taffy and carnival games along the old fashioned boardwalk. It wouldn’t be a trip to the beach without a stop at Thrasher’s French Fries, a concession stand that has been serving up the salty side since 1929. Round out your trip by spending a day on Assateague Island or Chincoteague Island, where wild ponies have free rein of the place.

The fun never stops in Myrtle Beach. Get up-close-and personal with your favorite animal friends, eat breakfast with a mermaid, and see the world from 20 stories up – all before lunch! When it comes to finding the freshest, most flavorful seafood, Myrtle Beach is hard to beat. Walk along Broadway at the Beach and you’ll find top-rated restaurants, shops, and entertainment. Experience pristine strand beaches, top-notch fishing, and watersports adventures all within a 60-mile stretch. Whether you’re ready to hit the waves or the links, there’s never a good reason to sit inside!

Looking for a place that melds old world charm with a modern flair? Look no further than Charleston. This waterfront gem has been charming visitors for decades with its Victorian homes, horse-drawn carriages, and gorgeous beaches. It continues to enchant with its world-class restaurants, pulsing nightlife, and vibrant art scene. Get a history lesson during a visit to one of its many historical sites – Middleton Place, Fort Sumter National Museum, and the French Quarter to start. Looking for a place to stay? Transport yourself back to the 1860s at the Wentworth Manor or check into the Restoration Hotel, which honors the past while ushering in the present.

As you walk through Savannah – a city dripping in charm and Spanish moss – you’ll find it hard not to fall in love. Here cobblestone streets and grand mansions coexist with modern art galleries and hip new restaurants. Take a tour of Savannah’s historic district then take in the sights and sounds of River Street. Spend a beach day on Tybee Island where you can explore Fort Pulaski National Monument and visit the Tybee Island Light Station and Museum. Looking for some down-home cooking? Mrs. Wilkes Dining Room and the historic Pirates’ House have you covered. Like most southern cities, Savannah has its fair share of ghostly residents. Learn more about these spooky souls with visits to Bonaventure Cemetery, Sorrel-Weed House, and the Hamilton-Turner Inn.