For first-timers in the Northeast, experiencing these three iconic cities—Boston, New York, and Washington, DC—feels like a rite of passage. The classic route follows the coast and skims past Rhode Island, Connecticut and Atlantic, giving glimpses of harbors and marshes before the Big Apple Skyline is in view. The real magic lies in the cities (where parking is outrageously expensive and traffic is notorious). Here’s our recommendation for this “roadtrip”: take the train instead of the car. Amtrak’s Northeast Regional routes and Acela Express routes connect all three. This is one of America’s few corridors that rival the urban connectivity in Europe.
What to do: Stick to the classics if you’re short on time. If you’re in Boston, try to catch a Red Sox or other seasonal sporting event at Fenway Park. Wander the Upper East Side in New York with a trip to the Met and then into Central Park. Begin with a cocktail in Bemelmans, the Carlyle’s bar. Then enjoy a meal. rooftop bar crawl The city is high above you. Enjoy live music downtown. Silver Lining—a piano lounge that’s anything but cheesy. Expect perfectly crafted cocktails and immersive covers of popular classics (tip: Request some Britney). Also, expect a crowd who knows all the words of the chorus. The National Mall and the Air and Space Museum are both worth a visit in DC. These cities have their own worlds, and this is only the beginning. Visit our Boston, New York, Washington, DC, and other travel guides to learn more.
What to eat? Boston is a great place to visit Neptune Oyster for a buttery lobster roll—winner of multiple best-of lists—and grab cannolis from Mike’s Pastry while you’re in the North End. Let Chinatown guide you in New York: enjoy dim sum casually at Nom Wah Tea Parlor You can also choose to have a special dinner. Hwa Yuan Szechuan. In DC, you can stop at Ben’s Chili BowlThe half-smokes, a spicy, half pork, half beef sausage, are an iconic landmark. Check out our complete dining guides for each city to get more ideas.
What to do: Boston is the perfect place to start. Fairmont Copley PlazaA historic hotel, the Boston Public Library Hotel has been in existence since 1912. The hotel channels the elegance and charm of old Boston, while providing the modern comforts that travelers expect today. In New York, you can stay at The Ned NoMad, a hotel and members club where every corner brims with personality—from the sun-drenched atrium to the moody library lounge, rooftop bar, Cecconi’s restaurant, and speakeasy-style cocktail spot Little Ned. In DC, stay at the Waldorf Astoria Washington DCThe 1899 Old Post Office is located on Pennsylvania Avenue. The hotel’s elegant bones and thoughtful restoration make it one the most visually stunning stays in the United States (plus, we love its style-heavy offshoot). The Bazaar by José Andrés, where the chef wows with his interpretations of Americana classics alongside plenty of jamón Ibérico.)
