EASTERN USA

PART 1 GENERAL INFORMATION

PART 2 BLOGS

a. New York

b. Georgia,

c. Smoky Mountains to Washington DC

d. Washington DC to Ohio

e. Ohio to Maine

PART 3 VIDEO CLIPS

A. New York

b. Georgia to Washington DC, via the Smoky Mountains

c. Washington DC

d. Washington to Ohio

e. Ohio to Maine

PART 1, General Information

The Eastern United States is a vast and diverse region stretching from the Atlantic Coast to the Mississippi River. It encompasses a variety of landscapes, from the rolling hills of New England to the sandy beaches of Georgia, and is home to some of the nation’s most iconic cities, as well as countless small towns and rural communities that contribute to its rich cultural tapestry.

The Eastern United States is home to significant bodies of water that have shaped its history and development. The Great Lakes—Lake Erie, Lake Huron, and Lake Ontario—are crucial sources of freshwater and transportation. Major rivers, such as the Hudson River in New York, the Potomac River in Washington D.C., and the Savannah River between Georgia and South Carolina, have historically supported commerce, agriculture, and urban growth.

History and Cultural Heritage

The region has a rich and complex history, originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Iroquois, Cherokee, and Seminole.

Today, the Eastern United States is a dynamic and culturally diverse region, with a thriving arts and entertainment scene. Cities such as New York, Boston, and Washington D.C. serve as major centers of culture, politics, and finance, while smaller towns maintain unique traditions and historical significance.

Conclusion

The Eastern United States is a region of immense historical, cultural, and economic significance. With its diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and thriving industries, it continues to be a vital and dynamic part of the nation. Whether exploring its bustling cities, scenic landscapes, or historical landmarks, the region offers something for everyone.

PART 2 BLOGS.T 2 BLOGS

A. Cairns to New York

After 6 months at home it was time for our 3rd and final journey exploring the USA. 2023 we covered the West and central USA, 2024 The southern USA and we are now ready to explore the Eastern USA. After 30 odd hours we arrived at our first stop NEW YORK on QF 3 via Auckland

Good Morning, ready to land in New York City

Good Morning Breakfast enroute to New York

New York City (NYC), the most populous city in the United States, is located at the southern tip of New York State on one of the world’s largest natural harbors. As a global hub, it excels in finance, commerce, culture, technology, entertainment, media, academics, scientific output, arts, fashion, and international diplomacy, with the United Nations headquartered here.

With a population more than double that of Los Angeles, NYC’s combined metropolitan area is home to over 24 million people. Nearly 3.1 million residents are born outside the United States, contributing to its vibrant multicultural makeup. The city is also the primary gateway for legal immigration to the U.S., with as many as 800 languages spoken within its borders.

NYC’s origins date back to 1624, when Dutch colonists established Fort Amsterdam and a trading post on Manhattan Island. The settlement was renamed New Amsterdam in 1626 and became a city in 1653.

Today, anchored by Wall Street in Manhattan’s Financial District, New York City is widely regarded as the world’s leading financial and fintech center. Its economy is the largest of any city globally, with a gross metropolitan product exceeding US$2.16 trillion. In fact, the New York metropolitan area’s economy is larger than that of all but nine countries.

The city is also home to the world’s two largest stock exchanges by market capitalization—the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq.

Despite its world-renowned 24/7 rapid transit system, New York leads the globe in urban automobile traffic congestion. As of 2023, it has become the most expensive city in the world for expatriates, with the highest residential rents in the U.S. Additionally, Fifth Avenue is recognized as the most expensive shopping street in the world.

New York City is also home to the highest number of billionaires, ultra-high-net-worth individuals (those worth more than US$30 million), and millionaires of any city globally.

Soaking in the city vibe in New York is an adventure in itself. Walking through Time Square at night, grabbing a coffee in a classic New York diner, or just wandering through neighborhoods like SoHo, the West Village, or Brooklyn is a fantastic experience.

Having visited the twin towers and the restaurant windows to the world 1 year before the 9/11 attack, visiting the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is deeply moving. Other highlights were Wall Street, The Brooklyn Bridge, Time Square, Central Park, Harlem, live jazz, a Broadway show, unfortunately it was too cold to enjoy a classic New York rooftop bar with city views.

Classic New York Experiences

Broadway Show –catching a show on Broadway
Live Jazz –Blue Note or Village Vanguard in Greenwich Village for world-class jazz.

Night Time in Times Square – Very Touristy but iconic, best experienced after dark when it’s buzzing with energy.

Empire State Building or Top of the Rock – Great nighttime city views.
Brooklyn Bridge Walk – A classic, especially at night when the city lights up. Chelsea Market – Great for a variety of food and a lively atmosphere.
Street Food – Grab a classic NYC hot dog or halal cart meal while exploring.

After 5 days New York it was time to catch a plane to the Florida Pan Handle and reunite with our Motorhome.

B. Florida to Georgia

After six months at home and one week in New York, We returned to DeFuniak Springs, where we had stored our motorhome with Amy and Patrick in October last year.

As always, it was great to reunite with our motorhome our vehicle again. We had left it with Patrick and Amy in September, and they took excellent care of it.

DeFuniak Springs is a small town in the Florida Panhandle, known for its historic charm, scenic lakes, and Victorian-era architecture. Patrick and Amy showed us around this amazing community, including the historic downtown and the perfectly round natural lake—Lake DeFuniak. It’s a quiet town with Southern charm, making it a great stop for those who appreciate small-town culture.

After shopping, cleaning the vehicle, and completing a general service, it was time to say goodbye to Patrick and Amy and head for Georgia. Part 3 of our USA exploration has officially begun! This time, we’re heading north to explore the East Coast of the USA and Canada.

The Florida Panhandle (also known as West Florida or Northwest Florida) is the northwestern part of the state, bordered by Alabama to the west and northwest and Georgia to the north.

Leaving Florida, we entered the state of Georgia, Its capital, Atlanta, is home to the world’s busiest airport.

Georgia is bordered by Tennessee and North Carolina to the north, South Carolina and the Atlantic Ocean to the east, Florida to the south, and Alabama to the west. The state’s geography ranges from the rugged Blue Ridge Mountains in the north to the coastal plains and beaches along the eastern seaboard.

Georgia is famous for its peaches, earning the nickname “The Peach State,” and holds historical importance as a key player in both the American Revolution and the Civil War. Atlanta, as the state’s capital, is a cultural and economic hub, known for its diverse industries, including film and television production, thanks to state incentives. The city was also central to the Civil Rights Movement, with landmarks like the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park attracting numerous visitors.

Georgia’s economy is varied, with agriculture, manufacturing, and services at the forefront. The state is also recognized for its hospitality, and beautiful landscapes,

Some key highlights of Georgia include:

Tourism: The state’s major attractions are concentrated around Atlanta, including:

World of Coca-Cola and the Georgia Aquarium, Stone Mountain, the most visited tourist site, offering spectacular views and outdoor activities. Zoo Atlanta, home to a variety of wildlife, and other museums that delve into the state’s history and culture.

Cultural Heritage: Georgia has produced musical legends such as Ray Charles, Outkast, and R.E.M., with Atlanta often referred to as the birthplace of hip hop. The state is also home to a vibrant film industry, frequently hosting blockbuster movies and popular TV series like The Walking Dead and Stranger Things.

Natural Beauty: The state is known for its lush landscapes, from the Appalachian Mountains in the north to the serene coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Notable sites include Amicalola Falls and Brasstown Bald, the highest point in Georgia. The Blue Ridge Mountains also provide excellent hiking, with breathtaking views.

History: As one of the original 13 colonies, Georgia has a deep historical significance, playing major roles in both the American Revolution and the Civil War. Many landmarks, such as the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and the Little White House in Warm Springs, commemorate the state’s historical figures and events.

Economy: Georgia’s economy thrives, being home to headquarters for numerous Fortune 500 companies like Home Depot, UPS, and Coca-Cola. Atlanta is also a major hub for both air travel, with Delta Air Lines headquartered there, and film production, contributing billions to the economy.

Native American History: The state was originally home to several Native American tribes, including the Cherokee, Muscogee, and Yamasee. While no federally recognized tribes exist today in Georgia, the legacy of these tribes remains a crucial part of the state’s cultural identity.

Georgia’s combination of rich history, natural beauty, economic strength, and vibrant cultural scenes makes it a unique and interesting state in the Southeastern U.S.

Macon

The Macon Cherry Blossom Festival is a popular annual event held in Macon, Georgia, celebrating the stunning beauty of the cherry blossoms that bloom each spring. Known as the “Cherry Blossom Capital of the World,” Macon has over 300,000 cherry trees, creating a picturesque backdrop for the festival. The festival attracts visitors from across the country, The festival kicks off with a vibrant parade filled with floats, marching bands, and performances.

Helen

Helen, a picturesque Bavarian-inspired village nestled along the Chattahoochee River, is located in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The village, with its charming cobblestone streets and colorful shops, transports visitors to Germany’s famed Bamberg or Lindau. The air is filled with the heavenly aroma of authentic German fare, making it feel as though you’ve stepped into a European alpine town, albeit in the Appalachian foothills rather than the Alps.

Originally a declining logging town, Helen reinvented itself by adopting a Bavarian theme, drawing tourists with its distinctive character. However, tourism, especially from Atlanta, is a key economic driver, and it’s best to avoid weekends when the town can become quite crowded. The village hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the “Southern Worthersee,” a Volkswagen and Audi event that pays homage to Austria’s Worthersee Tour.

During our stay, we opted for Unicoi State Park, though at $100 AUD (about $60 USD) per night, we decided to only stay one night. After all, there’s no need to pay for a campsite when you can park for free just up the road in the bush. Close by, Anna Ruby Falls, part of the Chattahoochee National Forest, offers a beautiful natural attraction worth visiting.

The village’s German transformation and even Dutch stores plus its stunning surroundings offer plenty of opportunities for exploration, but the true charm lies in its ability to combine Alpine beauty with Appalachian warmth.

c. Georgia to Washington DC

Crossing, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia

After leaving Helen, we entered North Carolina and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

North Carolina

North Carolina is bordered by South Carolina to the south, Georgia to the southwest, Tennessee to the west, Virginia to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the east. We explored the western section, home to the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Great Smoky Mountains, and the Black Mountains. The Black Mountains contain the highest peaks in the eastern United States, reaching up to 2,037 meters.

Our first stop was Cherokee, at the foot of the Smoky Mountains. This town, located in the heart of Western North Carolina, is an ideal base for exploring the national park. The Cherokee people living here today are descendants of the original inhabitants of the region.

The Great Smoky Mountains

According to park information, the Great Smoky Mountains are home to abundant wildlife, including roughly 1,900 black bears—approximately two per square mile. However, all we saw were people and thousands of vehicles, with many in a hurry despite being on a scenic highway. The overcrowding made the experience a little disappointing.

At the Gap, on top of the pass, we crossed into Tennessee for our second visit since last year.

Tennessee

Tennessee, a landlocked state in the southeastern U.S., spans about 700 km from east to west and 180 km from north to south. Known as “The Volunteer State,” it has a long-standing tradition of military service.

Descending from the Smoky Mountains, our first stop was Gatlinburg, a bustling tourist town at the end of the historic Indian Gap Trail (now US-441). Nestled in the mountains, Gatlinburg is a great base for exploring the northern part of the Smokies, offering both relaxation and outdoor activities. The Skybridge, the longest pedestrian bridge in North America, and the Ober Mountain Aerial Tram are popular attractions, but with waiting times of up to an hour, we decided to skip them.

One nice perk—Gatlinburg offers a free trolley bus that runs year-round, making it easy to get around town.

In 2016, Gatlinburg was devastated by a wildfire that spread from the Great Smoky Mountains, claiming 14 lives, forcing 14,000 people to evacuate, and destroying over 2,400 structures.

Not keen on paying $70 USD ($120 AUD) for a single night in an RV park, we took some local advice and free camped at the boat camp near Douglas Dam. The dam, a 520-meter-long reinforced concrete gravity dam standing 62 meters high, impounds Lake Douglas—a peaceful and scenic spot for some well-earned R&R.

After a few relaxing days, we moved on to Virginia.

Virginia

Eastern Virginia is part of the Atlantic Plain, with the Middle Peninsula forming the mouth of Chesapeake Bay. Central Virginia lies in the Piedmont region, with the Blue Ridge Mountains crossing the western part of the state.

We were lucky to have missed a tornado—the day after we left, one touched down in the area. Last year (2024), eight tornadoes have hit Virginia.

Maryland

Our next stop was Maryland, where we parked our truck at Cherry Hill RV Park for four nights—at a staggering $170 AUD per night ($680 total). Hotels in Australia are cheaper, and they include breakfast and a swimming pool! The one saving grace? A local bus stopped right at the RV park, making it an easy one-hour trip into Washington, D.C.

D. Washington DC to Ohio

Washington, D.C. – Monumental Moments in America’s Capital

Washington, D.C.—the capital of the United States—is a city of grandeur, history, and green spaces. Nestled between Maryland and Virginia, this unique city is named after George Washington, the nation’s first president.

Set along the Potomac River, the city feels larger than life. With wide avenues, marble monuments, and the expansive National Mall acting as a “public walk,” D.C. is both monumental and walkable. We found it fascinating—not just because of its iconic landmarks but also due to the local neighborhoods that gave us insight into the real Washington beyond the postcards.

One of the city’s standout features is its green space. With 683 parks covering 20% of the land, and 99% of residents living within a 10-minute walk of a park, it’s no wonder the city ranked #1 in 2023 for public parks among America’s largest cities.

We are not typical museum-goers, but for anyone who is—this city is heaven. Many of the Smithsonian museums line either side of the National Mall.

But for us, this were the highlights:

The White House

This iconic building is the official residence of the U.S. President, designed by James Hoban in 1792 and rebuilt after being burned in 1814. Surprisingly, it felt underwhelming compared to some of the colossal U.S. embassies we’ve seen around the world—like in Bamako, Mali! Still, it’s one of those places you need to see at least once.

United States Capitol & Capitol Hill

The massive dome of the Capitol—modeled after St. Peter’s in Rome—dominates the skyline. It’s home to both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Just nearby are the Library of Congress (an architectural gem modeled on the Paris Opera House), the Supreme Court, and the Folger Shakespeare Library. A walk through here is a crash course in American governance and grandeur.

The Washington Monument

This 158-meter obelisk honouring George Washington is unmissable. Reflected in the long pool stretching toward the Lincoln Memorial, it’s a stunning sight. Unfortunately, elevator tickets to the top were sold out for the next five days, so book ahead if you want that bird’s-eye view!

Lincoln Memorial

Modelled after a Greek temple, this striking white structure houses a 19-foot seated statue of President Lincoln. Its 36 columns represent the states at the time of his death. It was also the setting for Martin Luther King Jr.’s 1963 “I Have a Dream” speech—standing on those steps felt incredibly powerful.

Jefferson Memorial & Tidal Basin

This elegant rotunda, inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, honors Thomas Jefferson. The Tidal Basin surrounding it is rimmed with cherry blossom trees—a gift from Japan—and spring here is apparently magical. The reflective views of the monument were a real highlight.

The National Mall & Surrounding Museums

This grassy spine of D.C. runs from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and is surrounded by museums, memorials, and monuments. Highlights include:

National Museum of African American History and Culture
National Gallery of Art
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
All free, though some require reservations. Standing near the Washington Monument gave us the best panoramic view of the whole Mall.

Veterans & War Memorials

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial was deeply moving—a wall of names, still and solemn. Nearby, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial and the Three Servicemen Statue added further depth. Across the Reflecting Pool sits the World War II Memorial, a beautifully designed space with fountains and sculptures.

Arlington National Cemetery

Not in the city proper, but easily reached by metro. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, JFK’s grave, and the Iwo Jima Memorial are unforgettable. The changing of the guard ceremony was a moving and precise display of respect.

National Museum of African American History and Culture

One of the most modern and thought-provoking museums in D.C., focusing on history, community, and culture through the lens of African American experience. It’s a powerful place that highlights the struggles and triumphs woven into the nation’s fabric.

National Archives

Home to the original Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and Bill of Rights, as well as vast federal records. A must for anyone interested in the roots of American democracy.

Washington National Cathedral

It took 83 years to build this Neo-Gothic masterpiece. Inside, you’ll find stunning stained glass and hand-embroidered kneelers. This cathedral has hosted state funerals for Presidents and stands as a place of peace and beauty.

Georgetown Historic District

Georgetown predates D.C. itself and is full of colonial-era homes, cafes, and boutiques. It’s the perfect place to wind down after a day of sightseeing, and great for dinner, drinks, or just strolling along the historic streets.

U Street Corridor

Once the center of Black culture in America, this vibrant area is now a historic district filled with jazz clubs, restaurants, and cultural venues. A great spot for nightlife or just soaking up the spirit of old D.C.

just steps from the White House we found Old Ebbitt Grill,. D.C.’s oldest saloon, it’s dripping in history and atmosphere. Despite being upscale, it’s relaxed, welcoming, and full of character—plus the oysters are fantastic!

We stayed around 45 minutes North of Washington DC at the Cherry Hill Campground, which was by far the most expensive campsite we’ve ever stayed in. $109 USD (170 AUD) per night! Pffff! It was convenient, clean, and had a bus stop to Washington DC at the campsite. But the price definitely cut our D.C. stay a bit shorter than we would’ve liked.

Washington, D.C. exceeded our expectations. The grandeur, the history, the reflective moments at the memorials, and even the everyday life in its neighborhoods left us inspired. We could have easily stayed a few more days if it weren’t for the campground cost.

A city of contrasts, power, and quiet contemplation—For us it’s truly one of America’s most nicest cities we have visited.

D. WASHINGTON DC TO OHIO.

Washington DC to Ohio: A Journey into Amish Country

Leaving Washington DC behind, our first stop was the familiar comfort of Walmart—this time in Hagerstown. After four nights in a Washington campground at a jaw-dropping AUD $170 per night (PFFFFFF!), we were more than happy to enjoy a peaceful, free overnight stay in the Walmart car park. We stocked up, settled in, and had no issues at all.

Crossing into West Virginia

On the way to Berlin, Ohio, we crossed into West Virginia once again, choosing to spend the night in the Mountaineer Casino carpark. Unfortunately, the weather turned sour after leaving D.C., and with no improvement in the forecast, we decided to skip both New Philadelphia and Dover, continuing directly to Sugarcreek.

Sugarcreek – A Touch of Switzerland in Ohio

This small village of around 3,000 celebrates the Swiss heritage of Ohio’s Amish Country. We stopped by the much-talked-about Dutch Valley Restaurant, but despite its name, there was nothing Dutch about the menu. In fact, throughout the region, it seems there’s a bit of confusion between Swiss, German, and Dutch culture—or at least their cuisines!

That night, we parked in Walnut Creek, tucked behind the local shops in a public car park. With a population of just 900, Walnut Creek is a hidden gem. Full of Amish cultural experiences, we had a lovely encounter with an Amish family outside the local Amish supermarket—a simple but memorable moment.

Berlin and Millersburg – The Beating Heart of Amish Tourism

Next up were Berlin and Millersburg, two of the busiest hubs in Ohio’s Amish Country.

Berlin offered one of the best surprises: Sheiyah Market, a former dairy barn turned shopper’s paradise. Think home décor, boutique clothing, a greenhouse café, and more—all under one big roof. We also explored Yoder’s Amish Home, where you can tour a traditional 19th-century schoolhouse, home, and barn, complete with buggy rides.

Over in Millersburg, Hershberger Farm and Bakery was a delicious stop. From homemade pies and fresh bread to jams and pastries, it’s everything you want from an Amish bakery. And if you’re a cheese lover, Guggisberg Cheese Factory is a must—offering over 60 different kinds of cheese. Pure heaven!

Winesburg – Quiet, Authentic, and True

Our final stop in Amish Country was Winesburg, named after Weinsberg, Germany. This charming village is as authentic as it gets. Horse-drawn buggies meander through winding roads, small farms dot the landscape, and local businesses like Whitmer’s Butcher sell grass-fed beef, organic lamb and chicken, and even wood-fired pizza.

Amish Horse & Buggy Etiquette

The horse and buggy remains the most iconic symbol of Amish life. It’s “life in the slow lane”—literally. These buggies are slow-moving, and the roads are narrow, so drive carefully and stay alert.

Quick Facts: Ohio’s Amish Country

As of 2023, Ohio has the second-largest Amish population in the world, with ~84,000 members.
Tourism is a major contributor to the local economy, especially in places like Berlin and Sugarcreek.
There are over 50 Amish settlements across Ohio, most within 20–50 km of essential services (reachable by buggy).
Farming is still the mainstay, although in southeastern counties, logging also plays a role.
Many local businesses feature wraparound porches and rocking chairs, encouraging visitors to slow down and unwind.

Amish Country Byway

Designated a scenic route in 1998, the Amish Country Byway stretches 264 km, winding through rolling farmland, historic villages, and family-run farms. It’s peaceful and picturesque, unless you’re in a rush—in which case, you may find it a bit… frustrating. Let’s just say Americans aren’t always fans of slow scenic drives.

Healthcare & Community Insights

The Amish do not reject medical care, but many families choose not to vaccinate. As of 2021, only 1% were vaccinated against COVID-19, and about 59% of families skipped childhood vaccines altogether. Instead of commercial health insurance, they rely on community-based healthcare funds.

In many Holmes County townships, nearly all businesses close on Sundays, and alcohol is prohibited. The weekly Amish newspaper, The Budget, is published in Sugarcreek and connects Amish communities across the U.S.—and even abroad.

Summary

Ohio’s Amish Country was an unexpectedly enriching part of our journey. From farm-fresh pies and cheese tastings to buggy rides and quiet Sunday towns, the experience is a genuine glimpse into a slower, more deliberate way of life. If you’re ready to hit the brakes and embrace the simple things, Amish Country this is the place to do it.

For us it was time to continue our journey next stop Cleveland

e. Ohio to Maine

We continued along the shores of Lake Erie and briefly re-entered Pennsylvania before crossing into New York State. Based on recommendations and feedback, we decided to skip Niagara Falls on the U.S. side — not just because of the cost, but because nearly everyone told us the Canadian side offers a far better experience. We’ll catch it in a month or so after exploring the Northeast of the Province of Labrador.

New York, bordered by New England to the east and Canada to the north, was one of the original 13 colonies. Originally a Dutch colony named New Netherland (founded in 1621), it was seized by the British in 1664 and renamed New York. Today, it’s home to four of the world’s ten most-visited tourist attractions, including Niagara Falls.

After a long, uneventful drive (426 km on a poorly maintained interstate — PFFFFFFF), we stayed overnight at the Walmart carpark in Horseheads, New York.

Massachusetts

The following day, we entered Massachusetts, known for its Cape Cod beaches — a 1000 km stretch of white sandy shoreline backed by dunes. Our first cultural stop was Old Sturbridge Village, a living history museum recreating early 1800s New England, complete with costumed villagers: farmers, blacksmiths, homemakers, and artisans.

Driving through Boston, we passed Fenway Park, iconic among baseball fans as home to the Red Sox. Just north lies Salem, with its historic houses and infamous witch trial history.

We considered visiting Martha’s Vineyard, the idyllic island accessible by ferry from Woods Hole or New Bedford, with lighthouses, sandy bluffs, and six charming towns.

Instead, we headed to Rockport, a classic fishing village less touristy than Cape Cod, known for its red fishing shack adorned with lobster buoys — one of the most painted and photographed spots in New England. Nearby Halibut Point State Park features 440-million-year-old granite cliffs once quarried for building stone.

Gloucester, another fishing town, is famous for whale-watching at Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, one of the top 10 whale-watching sites in the world. Sadly, we were too early in the season. Gloucester was also the setting for The Perfect Storm and CODA.

Continuing north, we stopped in Ipswich, a small town on the North Shore known for its clams.

New Hampshire

Our first stop in New Hampshire was the charming Portsmouth, with a vibrant downtown full of restaurants, shops, and historical buildings. The USS Albacore, a record-setting Cold War-era submarine, is docked here — though many of Portsmouth’s attractions are seasonal.

We skipped the White Mountains and Mount Washington (the auto road only opens in May) and instead hugged the coast. We visited Hampton Beach State Park, famous for its wide sandy beach and the Master Sand Sculpting Classic in summer. Nearby is the nostalgic Hampton Beach Casino with arcades, rides, and the rooftop bar at Ashworth by the Sea.

Concord, the capital, is known for being home to Christa McAuliffe, the teacher lost in the 1986 Challenger disaster, and Alan Shepard, the first American in space in 1961.

Back in Portsmouth, the Strawberry Banke Museum brought early New England life alive with costumed roleplayers.

Sadly, many New Hampshire attractions only open seasonally, from mid-May onward — including Santa’s Village in Lancaster, a Christmas-themed park with rides, reindeer, and trains.

Maine

After 3 years in the U.S. (3 x 6-month stints), Maine marked our final state before entering Canada. Known as the Pine Tree State, Maine is the northeasternmost U.S. state (except Alaska), bordering New Brunswick and Quebec. Quoddy Head Lighthouse is the closest U.S. point to Europe and Africa.

Maine’s dramatic Atlantic coastline, rugged terrain, and seafood — especially lobster and clams — make it a favorite summer destination. Winters, however, are long, cold, and snowy.

Heading north, we stopped in:

Ogunquit – a classic beach town;
Kennebunkport – a favorite vacation spot for the Bush family;
Old Orchard Beach – with its long sandy beach and boardwalk;
Portland – full of charm and cobbled streets in the Old Port district.

Unfortunately, the weather was grim — gale-force winds, sleet, and snow. We camped that night at Sandy Beach Point on Cousins Island near Freeport, in shocking conditions.

We made a quick stop at the L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport (home to the iconic giant boot) before heading to Acadia National Park, hoping for better weather.

Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor, the gateway to Acadia, is full of great seafood restaurants, artisan ice cream shops, and breweries — most of which were closed for the season (even over Easter). Whale-watching wasn’t operating either — tours don’t begin until after Easter.

We tried Happy Clam Shack, known for lobster rolls and clam chowder, but it was also closed until May.

Acadia covers parts of Mount Desert Island, Schoodic Peninsula, and several smaller islands. It features rugged coastlines, forests, and Cadillac Mountain, the tallest on the U.S. Atlantic coast. But again, most of the park was closed for the off-season, including large parts of the loop road and the drive to the summit of Cadillac Mountain (which was also off-limits for RVs).

Highlights we couldn’t see included:

Thunder Hole, Jordan Pond, Beehive, Sand Beach, and Otter Cliffs
The western side of the island: Echo Lake, Long Pond, Beech Mountain, and Bass Harbor Head Light
The deep glacial fjord Somes Sound

In all honesty, Acadia was a letdown — not just due to the closures, but because we’ve seen so many spectacular national parks in the west, central, and southern U.S.

Lubec & Calais

Our final stop in the U.S. was Lubec, a tiny fishing village with rugged beauty and the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, marking the easternmost point in the continental U.S.