Are you planning your first-ever trip to the US and feeling overwhelmed by all the planning? Well, worry no more! I went through the same ordeal when I planned my first trip here, so I decided to write down the exact 2-week USA itinerary I followed. This way, you can skip the tedious planning process and enjoy an easy-to-follow guide instead.
One thing people often forget is that the US is massive! It’s like a continent in its own right, and sometimes people try to visit places on opposite sides of the country within just a few days, like going from NYC to Chicago to LA. This is definitely not recommended.
The best approach is to stick to one region at a time and leave the rest for your next trip. For first-time visitors, the northeast is the best region to explore, as it’s easy to travel around without renting a car. This area includes incredible cities like New York City and Washington, DC, some of the most amazing destinations in the US.
For this itinerary, we’ll start in Washington, DC, the capital city and an excellent place for first-time visitors to begin their journey. From there, we’ll head to the foodie capital of Philadelphia, the vibrant New York City, and conclude our trip in the historic city of Boston. We have a lot to go through here, so without further ado, here's a complete 2-week itinerary for the USA!
- 2 Weeks USA Itinerary Map
- 2 Weeks in USA Itinerary
- When to Visit Northeast USA?
- How to Get to Northeast USA?
- How to Get Around Northeast USA?
- How Much Money Do I Need For A 2-week Trip To USA?
- Is it Safe in Northeast USA?
- Which tourist SIM card is best for the US?
- What to Pack for USA?
- Further Reading for Northeast USA
2 Weeks USA Itinerary Map
| ☀️ Day 1-3: | Washington DC |
| ☀️ Day 4-6: | Philadelphia |
| ☀️ Day 7-11: | New York City |
| ☀️ Day 12-15: | Boston |
2 Weeks in USA Itinerary
Day 1-3: Washington DC (4 nights)
This itinerary begins in Washington, DC, the capital city of the United States, known for its world-class museums, iconic landmarks like the White House and the Capitol, and a diverse culinary scene to explore. There’s no better place to start your journey in the US than here.
Of course, we’re kicking off this itinerary with a full day dedicated to museums, which is what Washington DC is famous for. Being home to the Smithsonian Institution, the largest museum complex in the world, with over 157 million items and artifacts spread across 21 museums and galleries, it’s impossible to visit DC without diving into its incredible history, art, and culture.
First and foremost, let's begin with my favorite museum of all, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. The museum showcases the history of U.S. aviation and space exploration with an incredible collection of real vehicles that you might recognize from history books, all on display.
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From the first successful powered airplane, invented by the Wright brothers over 100 years ago, to the actual Apollo 11 Command Module that journeyed to the moon and back, you can see and inspect these historic artifacts up close at this museum. As a big history fan, being able to finally see these iconic items with my own eyes nearly brought me to tears.
Although entry to the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is free, you will need to book a time slot to visit. If you know exactly when you'll be arriving, you can book a time slot online here or you can go to the museum first and book the next available time slot via the same website.
If you are a fan of art, you might want to visit the National Gallery of Art, which houses a massive collection of European and American artworks across various styles. The museum is divided into wings connected by a grand rotunda, adorned with a beautiful garden and centerpiece artworks. Even if you're not particularly interested in art, the building itself is worth a visit.
Another amazing Smithsonian museum you definitely shouldn't miss is the National Museum of Natural History, which houses a vast collection of items that celebrate the incredible natural world in which we live. From the well-preserved dinosaur bones to the breathtaking, life-size taxidermy displays of animals and marine life that fill several halls, you will be absolutely blown away by its awesome array of exhibitions.
The gemstone exhibition, in particular, was probably the most fascinating for me, as it features not only colorful stones but also many rare gems and crystals that I didn’t even know existed. Another highlight was watching actual archaeologists working on real specimens inside the museum, it was amazing to get a behind-the-scenes look at how these massive institutions operate.
Now that we've covered the big museums, it's time to take the road less traveled and explore the smaller, yet equally unique, museums Washington DC has to offer. Let's begin with my personal favorite, the National Museum of Asian Art, an art gallery featuring a vast collection of ancient artworks that celebrate the mythical and mesmerizing art of Asia throughout its long-lasting history.
If you love modern art and handcrafts, you might also want to check out Renwick Gallery located right next to the White House. This small museum is housed in the Renwick building, which is the first-ever structure that was built expressly as an art museum in the United States.
For a deeper dive into the history of the United States, I also recommend visiting both the National Museum of African American History and the National Museum of the American Indian. Both museums provide excellent platforms to learn more about their respective histories and cultures, which have significantly shaped the United States we know today.
These museums should occupy you the entire first day. It is a whole lot of walking, so if you are feeling tired, you can retreat for the day early, or you can go visit Adams Morgan, a vibrant neighborhood in DC known for its counterculture and as an arts district, full of pubs and bars you can enjoy.
The next day, we are going to check out all the famous monuments in the city starting with the White House, the official residence and workplace of the current president of the United States. The security around the area is quite tight for obvious reasons, but you can freely walk up to the fence and take photos of the White House without any problems.
After visiting the White House, head west along the National Mall, a vast landscaped park that stretches from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol. As you head west, you will see the Lincoln Memorial on the horizon, which is where we will be heading next.
Once you arrive at the Lincoln Memorial, snap a selfie with the large marble statue of the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, and don't forget to check out the view of the National Mall from up there.
After visiting the Lincoln Memorial, you can make your way to the Capitol. But first, don’t miss a stop at the Smithsonian Castle to explore its beautiful garden, one of my favorite spots to relax and escape the city’s hustle and bustle. The walk from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol is quite long, but thankfully, it’s all on flat ground. Take your time and enjoy the scenic stroll!
Next up, we are going to visit the Capitol, another iconic landmark in Washington, DC that you won't want to miss. This massive neoclassical structure serves as the home of the U.S. Congress and, depending on your perspective, is either a place rich in history or a site where the infamous January 6, 2021, United States Capitol attack took place.
While you are at the Capitol, be sure to drop by and check out the United States Botanic Garden, a sprawling ground of gardens and a conservatory featuring rare and exotic flora and fauna that you don't get to see every day, like orchids, corpse flowers, and more.
After exploring the National Mall, spend the rest of your day unwinding at some of the fantastic cafes and restaurants around Dupont Circle, one of my favorite neighborhoods in the city. A must-visit spot is Kramer's, a cozy bookstore, café, and restaurant that perfectly combines two of my favorite things: books and coffee.
On our 3rd day in Washington DC, we are going to explore the cozy and hip neighborhood of Georgetown, a charming area with Federal-style architecture, cobblestone streets, and fashion and design shops located only a stone's throw away from downtown. My local friends also recommended that I visit Georgetown, and I fell in love with it.
Founded in 1751 as part of the colonial province of Maryland, nearly 40 years before Washington DC itself, Georgetown is home to many of the city’s historical sites. For example, The Old House, a former clock shop built in 1771, is considered the oldest remaining structure in the city. You'll also find other historic buildings such as Tudor Place, Dumbarton House, and more as you explore the crisscrossing cobblestone streets of Georgetown.
Lined on both sides of the streets, you’ll also find many boutique shops, charming cafes, and restaurants to enjoy. One of my favorite spots here, thanks again to my local friends Heiley and Kiko for the recommendation, is YELLOW, a fantastic little café/restaurant that serves some of the most delicious wood-fired chicken pita shawarmas you’ll ever try. Be sure to drop by there for a quick bite when you are in Georgetown.
Georgetown is also situated right on the banks of the Potomac River, and there you'll find a spacious waterfront park where you can relax and take a leisurely stroll while admiring the view of the skyscrapers on the other side of the river. You could easily spend an entire day in Georgetown without getting bored. If you want to dive deeper into the history of the area, I highly recommend going on a historical walking tour or, if you’re into spooky stories, a ghost walking tour before retreating for the night. 😉
Getting from Washington DC to Philly
From Washington, DC, you can take the Amtrak train to Philly from Washington Union Station, arriving at Philly's 30th Street Station in about 2 hours. A coach ticket costs around 50 USD if booked early.
Be sure to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes in advance, as coach seats are unreserved and lines can form quickly. Arriving early will help you secure the seat you want. You can book the Amtrak train here.
Day 4-6: Philadelphia (3 nights)
On our first day in Philly, we are going to explore the Old City, and one of the first things I recommend you visit is the Independence Hall Historical Park, one of Philadelphia's most iconic landmarks located right in the middle of the city center. This is the place where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted, making it one of the most important sites in American history.
Within the historical park, you will find the famous Independence Hall, one of my favorite historical buildings in the city, with its iconic bell tower and Georgian architectural style as a centerpiece. Within the park, you will also find the Liberty Bell Center, where the famous Liberty Bell is located.
Liberty Bell is one of the most famous symbols in U.S. history, and probably in the entire free world today. This cracked bell, which once rang in the Pennsylvania State House (now Independence Hall), has since become a global symbol of liberty and freedom, especially after the 19th century when abolitionists adopted it in their fight against slavery.
To visit the bell, however, you must pass through security similar to airport screenings, which often results in long lines. To avoid having to queue, I highly recommend you visit the Liberty Bell first thing in the morning when the gate opens at 9 AM. There were only a few people waiting at the entrance when I was there, and the line started to form pretty quickly afterward.
Once you're done, head over to Menagerie Coffee for a little breakfast. It's one of my favorite cafes in Old City, nestled in a beautiful brick-walled space with retro-style lighting and a cozy, homey vibe, the perfect spot to start your day.
After breakfast, you can go and visit the Museum of the American Revolution, a museum dedicated to telling the story of the United States' fight for independence, providing insights into the events that shaped the American Revolution.
The exhibitions are quite extensive, with plenty of reading material, so much so that the museum ticket includes unlimited access for two days after purchase, which goes to show just how much time you’re expected to spend exploring. Plan to spend at least 2 to 3 hours here, or come back the next day if you don’t want to rush through it.
Here's a little hidden gem in the Old City; if you like secondhand bookstores, you will not want to miss the Book Trader, an independent bookstore in the heart of Old City, Philly. The moment you enter, you’ll find yourself not only surrounded by stacks of old books haphazardly arranged across shelves on two floors, but also immersed in its charming interior, cozy atmosphere, and wonderful artwork.
The best part about this bookstore is that, amidst all the stacked books, you'll come across a little pocket of cozy and quiet seating area where you can enjoy the books in solitude, free of charge. The secondhand books are very affordable with prices ranging from 2 to 5 USD, and the staff there are always friendly and welcoming. I love it.
For lunch, stop by Oh Brother Philly, a great spot to try the iconic Philly dish, the cheesesteak sandwich. While it’s not the best cheesesteak in Philly, that title belongs to Leo's Steak Shop, which is a bit too far for this itinerary, it’s still a solid choice and conveniently located nearby.
Next up, go and visit Elfreth's Alley Museum, a charming little historic site and open-air museum, considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited residential streets in the country. Originally laid out in 1702, it was home to tradespeople such as blacksmiths, shipwrights, and furniture makers who helped shape the city’s early economy.
As the evening approaches, go and hang out at Spruce Street Harbor Park, a beautiful waterfront park located along the banks of the Delaware River. There are also some really awesome museums and attractions related to the city's maritime history like the Independence Seaport Museum where you can learn more about the history of the seaport, Cruiser Olympia and Submarine Becuna at Independence Seaport Museum, where you can tour a real submarine, and many more. Be sure to spend some time and explore the park thoroughly before retreating for the day.
On your second day in Philly, we are going to explore all the attractions outside Old City, starting with Reading Terminal Market, one of the oldest and largest public markets in the United States. Housed in a historic building, it has more than 80 stalls with fantastic restaurants, bakeries, and shops that you can enjoy.
Some of my favorite places to eat include Dutch Eating Place, an Amish breakfast bistro serving classic Pennsylvania Dutch breakfasts and lunches; Miller's Twist, famous for their homemade soft pretzels; and many others. I highly recommend you stop at Dutch Eating Place for a generous breakfast before we continue exploring the city.
Be sure to grab a quick lunch to go at Reading Terminal Market, as there won't be many options for food along the way. You can pick up a Greek gyro from Olympia Gyro or sausage rolls and pretzels from Miller's Twist, so you'll have something packed for the day.
As you go west from Reading Terminal Market towards the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where you will be going after, you will come across Philadelphia City Hall, one of the most impressive structures in the city with its stunning European-style architecture that stands out from the skyscrapers of Philly's cityscape.
On your way to the Philadelphia Museum of Art, you can also make a little detour and check out Mütter Museum, one of the weirdest and most unique museums I visited in the city. The museum is best known for its eerie collection of over 22,000 medical oddities, anatomical specimens, and historical medical tools that you can see up close.
This place will either leave you speechless or completely creeped out by its wide range of exhibits, including preserved organs, skeletons, deformed body parts, and historical medical instruments. Some of the most famous items on display are President Grover Cleveland's jaw tumor, the conjoined liver of Chang and Eng Bunker (the famous Siamese twins), and a preserved slice of brain from none other than Albert Einstein.
Once you are done, you can make your way to Philadelphia Museum of Art, another museum you shouldn't miss in Philly. I was initially skeptical about visiting it, as I’ve seen many art museums in my lifetime, including those in Washington, D.C. and Rome, but despite all that, I found this museum to be surprisingly interesting and incredibly fun to explore.
The museum is one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the US, with an iconic building that you may recognize from another iconic landmark in Europe, the Greek Parthenon, sporting awesome classical Greek architecture. Inside, you will find a dizzying amount of works, with over 240,000 pieces spanning across 2,000 years.
Each wing is dedicated to a different theme of art, with one of my favorites being the South Asian art section, where entire columns from Hindu temples have been recreated inside one of the museum's many halls. In fact, what I found most fascinating about this museum is the collection of these replica temples, rooms, and even small traditional houses from different parts of the world, all somehow fitting into these spaces for us to walk around in.
The museum is vast and incredibly detailed, so be prepared to spend at least 2-3 hours exploring. While you're there, be sure to visit the Rocky Steps. If you're a fan of the movie Rocky, you can recreate the iconic exercise routine of running up and down the stairs and striking the famous hands-up pose with the Philadelphia skyline in the background. There's also a Rocky statue at the bottom of the steps that you can take photos with.
Last but not least, you can visit the Eastern State Penitentiary, which is probably my favorite attraction of all. Once a revolutionary prison, it became notorious for housing some of America's most infamous criminals, including Al Capone and Willie Sutton. Here, you can tour the historic cells and learn more about the prison and the people who lived within its walls through an engaging audio tour.
Once inside the museum, you'll be provided with an audio guide that takes you through each cell, guiding you through the history and personal stories of those who were imprisoned there. It really paints quite a vivid picture of what life was like for the prisoners here.
The entire tour was both fascinating and gut-wrenching at times, as you witnessed how the prison deteriorated over the years due to overcrowding and its shift from rehabilitation to mere containment. This is evident in the fact that it housed some of the most infamous criminals in U.S. history, including Al Capone and others.
It takes about two hours to walk through the entire prison and listen to the audio guide, so be sure to set aside enough time. Out of all the museums I have visited, this one was by far the most fascinating and one you definitely should not miss.
For your last night in Philly, you can go and have a drink at National Mechanics Bar and Restaurant, a wonderful bar located inside this incredible historic building with its two stunning Roman columns flanking the entrance.
Where to Stay in Philadelphia?
Getting from Philly to New York City
From Philly, you can catch the Amtrak train at Philly's 30th Street Station to get to New York City, and you will arrive at Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station in about 1.5 hours. The train ticket should cost around 32 USD if booked early. You can see the train schedule here.
Day 7-11: New York City (5 nights)
And now we have arrived in New York City, probably one of the most famous cities in the world, and it definitely doesn't disappoint! You can hit the ground running and start by visiting some of the most famous attractions in Midtown Manhattan like Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Rockefeller Center. While these spots may feel cliché, I still think they’re worth visiting, especially if it’s your first time here. So, let’s check them off the list on the first day!
On the day of your arrival, if you arrive late in the afternoon, you can rest at your accommodation for a bit before heading out in the evening and check out Times Square. Even though not many people like Times Square, and I tend to agree, it is still worth seeing for what it is. Much like Khaosan Road in Bangkok, Times Square is definitely a place I recommend you see for yourself, but try not to stay too long 😅.
After you are done, you can head over to Los Tacos No.1 for some delicious tacos for dinner. It is one of my all-time favorite spots in NYC. It’s the place to get a proper taco in New York, featuring a fast-paced environment, standing tables, and a simple menu that even your grandmother could navigate. And of course, it serves some of the most delicious tacos in the city.
The next day, you can start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Morning Star Cafe, a 24-hour American-style diner located on 2nd Avenue where you can enjoy all sorts of American breakfast options, from a wide variety of omelets to bagels and more.
You can take your first day a little slow and get acquainted with the city. Go for a walk around Midtown Manhattan. Check out the Rockefeller Center, one of New York City's most iconic landmarks. It features stunning Art Deco architecture, plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, and the lovely observation deck, Top of the Rock, which is one of the best places to see NYC's skyline from above.
Right across from the Rockefeller Center, you will find St. Patrick's Cathedral, one of the most iconic and beautiful landmarks in the city, with its unique Neo-Gothic architectural style that stands out from all the skyscrapers surrounding it. It is definitely a breath of fresh air seeing something so historically significant such as this in a hypermetropolitan city like NYC.
After you are done, you can grab a quick lunch at Adel's Famous Halal Food, located on 6th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan. New York City is famous for its food carts, which can be found on almost every corner at all hours, but this one comes highly recommended with its diverse selection of halal street food, from gyros and falafel to hot dogs and more.
In the afternoon, you can spend time walking around Midtown Manhattan some more, or go and hang out in Bryant Park. This vibrant park, located right in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, is a favorite among New Yorkers looking to unwind and relax after a long day of work without venturing too far. You can always find events happening here, from the Winter Village with its free ice-skating rink and holiday shops to summer movie nights, literary events, and weekend fitness classes.
Be sure to drop by and check out New York Public Library, a massive library with over 50 million items, including rare manuscripts, maps, and historical documents, all housed inside a 1911 Beaux-Arts building. The place is quite a sight to behold!
Once you are done, you can head over to the top of the Empire State Building and watch the sunset from there. Getting up was pretty easy and straightforward, and you can't deny that NYC is best seen from a high vantage point, and the Empire State Building is perfect for that.
Be sure to arrive about an hour before sunset, as you’ll need to go through several rooms and sections before you arrive at the top. The deck is open from 9 AM to 10 PM every day, and the ticket to go up the observation deck is 48 USD. You can buy the ticket and book a time slot here. If you have CityPass, the entrance to the Empire State Building is included in the ticket, but you have to book the time slot. Be sure to do that through its official website or its app.
Once you are done, you can get down and grab the famous 1 USD (now it's 1.5 USD due to inflation) NYC-style pizza slice at $1.50 Fresh Pizza before retreating for the day. The unique thing about NYC pizza is how large the slices are. When pizza was first introduced in New York, not many people could afford a whole pie. To attract more customers, restaurants began making the slices bigger and selling them individually. And that’s how the classic New York-style pizza was born!
For the second day, we are going to spend the entire day at Central Park. This iconic park spans over 843 acres across the center of Manhattan, from 59th Street (its southern border) to 110th Street (its northern edge), and from Fifth Avenue (on the east) to Eighth Avenue (on the west), covering approximately 50 city blocks! That should give you an idea of how vast the park is and why I recommend dedicating an entire day just to exploring Central Park.
There are so many things to see in Central Park, from the expansive open space of Sheep Meadow, where city residents gather to relax when the weather is nice, to the historic Belvedere Castle, a Gothic and Romanesque castle built in 1872 that offers an amazing view of the city. There's even a 3,000-year-old Egyptian Obelisk hidden somewhere in the park!
Spend the first half of the day strolling around Central Park. Be sure to grab a bagel at Nosh Bagels near the park for a quick breakfast, then find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy it like a typical New Yorker. As the day goes on, you’ll notice more and more street performers, so keep an eye out for them as well!
As you stroll around the park, you will eventually stumble upon the Met (the Metropolitan Museum of Art). There are regular museums, and then there's the Met, one of the largest museums in the world, standing in a league of its own with its vast collection of over 2 million artifacts. These artifacts span more than 5,000 years of global culture, including works from Ancient Egypt, European paintings and sculptures, Asian art, American decorative arts, and much more.
The museum is massive, and it could take several hours to see everything. I spent two hours there and still didn’t manage to explore two-thirds of the exhibitions on display that day. Expect to spend about 2-3 hours here and a whole lot of walking. There’s a cafe inside in case you get hungry or need a break while exploring the museum.
Next up, you can visit the American Museum of Natural History, one of the largest and most prestigious museums of its kind, featuring a wide array of exhibits spanning topics from paleontology to space exploration, which is also located near Central Park.
Some of my favorite exhibitions here are the Fossil Halls, where you'll find dinosaur skeletons like the famous Tyrannosaurus rex and Triceratops, the Hall of Biodiversity, which explores the planet's biological diversity, and the Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals, showcasing a dazzling collection of precious stones, including rare diamonds and vibrant minerals, some even glow in the dark, which is something you don't get to see every day!
After you are done with the museums, you can make your way back to Midtown Manhattan through Central Park and enjoy a delicious dinner at Xi'an Famous Foods, a New York take on the deliciously spicy Chinese noodles with Mala sauce that will satisfy any spice craving like no other dish can. You can retreat for the night afterward as you will have to wake up early the next day to visit the Statue of Liberty.
On our third day, we are going to wake up early and visit the Statue of Liberty, probably one of the most well-known landmarks in the US, if not the world. You can't visit NYC without seeing the beautiful monument with your own eyes.
The statue is located on an island and in order to get there, you can take the official City Experience ferry, which will take you to both Liberty Island and Ellis Island nearby. The terminal to get to Liberty Island is located right next to Castle Clinton in Battery Park. Make sure to be there about 30 minutes before your departure time.
Obviously, the statue attracts a lot of tourists every day, so if you want to avoid crowds, I highly recommend taking the first ferry available. The earliest time slot is at 9 AM, and as the day progresses, the number of visitors increases significantly.
After visiting the Statue of Liberty, you can take the next ferry to Ellis Island. Before my visit, I had no idea about the importance of the island. I initially thought I’d just walk around for 30 minutes before heading back to Manhattan. But nope! I ended up spending almost 3 hours exploring Ellis Island and its impressive history museum.
On the island, you will find the National Museum of Immigration, which is housed inside the very building that once welcomed millions of immigrants. The exhibitions here are truly remarkable, especially for someone like me who has experienced the painstaking process of obtaining a U.S. visa.
After you are done, you can catch the ferry back to Battery Park and visit New York Stock Exchange on Wall Street. This is where you'll find the famous Charging Bull statue, a 3-ton bronze sculpture of a bull that symbolizes New York's financial industry, although if you want to take a photo with it, you are going to have to wait in line.
A better photo spot with fewer crowds is the Fearless Girl statue, located on Broad Street. The statue symbolizes female empowerment, standing boldly with her hands on her hips and a defiant expression. However, it has also faced criticism for its connection to the corporation that placed it there in the first place.
While you are exploring Wall Street, you might also want to check out the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a collection of structures built to honor all the lives lost during the 9/11 terrorist attacks, which have profoundly impacted our world since the tragedy struck in 2001. I was only a wee boy when it happened!
The museum itself is located underground, right below the Memorial. Inside, you will find a comprehensive collection of artifacts, personal stories, and multimedia displays, including footage that you may have never seen before. I thought I knew a lot about the event, but the museum proved me wrong, revealing many details I hadn’t realized, like the white dust that blanketed the city and poisoned its people for weeks afterward.
While there, be sure to drop by the Oculus World Trade Center, an underground shopping mall best known for its unique architecture, featuring a vast white structure with steel "wings" stretching 350 feet across, allowing natural light to flood the interior. There's often a street food market in front of the mall where you can grab a quick lunch to eat before heading into the museum.
In the evening, you can go and check out the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, a bridge connecting Manhattan & Brooklyn via a unique stone & steel design that was built in 1883. You can go have dinner at Time Out New York Market while overlooking the bridge as the sun goes down. After that, you can retreat for the night or go and enjoy the wonderful nightlife in Williamsburg.
On your fourth and last day in NYC, we are going to chill out in Chelsea, a dynamic neighborhood in Manhattan with a fascinating history and one of my favorite neighborhoods in NYC. It has evolved over several centuries, from being an industrial center filled with factories and warehouses during the Industrial Revolution to becoming a vibrant cultural hub known for its art scene and home to many awesome tourist attractions that you are going to want to see.
Another must-visit attraction in NYC is the High Line, an elevated park built on an abandoned freight rail line that once ran through the West Side of Manhattan, located in Chelsea. You can combine a visit to the High Line with exploring Chelsea to create an awesome day trip.
You can begin your journey at the Vessel, another stunning piece of architecture you should definitely check out. From there, you can make your way south, all the way to Chelsea Market and beyond.
The path is lined with trees and small gardens, creating a beautiful contrast with the urban cityscape of NYC, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll on a lovely weekend. You can grab a quick breakfast or lunch at Chelsea Market and find a nice bench to sit on the High Line and enjoy the lovely view of Chelsea from above.
From there, you can get down from the High Line and make your way to Little Island, one of my favorite riverside parks in NYC. This island park is built on top of 132 striking concrete "tulips", each designed to support different loads. The park is home to a diverse array of trees, shrubs, and flowers, as well as varying levels of elevation and pathways you can explore.
The park isn't very big, and you can explore it in less than 30 minutes, but the view is definitely rewarding. From the park, you can see the entire area set against the silhouette of NYC's skyscrapers from afar, which I think is pretty dope.
In the afternoon, if you're looking for a place to soak in the lively vibe that New York City is known for, I highly recommend heading to Washington Square Park. This vibrant public park, located in Greenwich Village, is just a short walk from Chelsea and offers a perfect spot to relax and enjoy your last day in the city.
Right at the center of the park, you’ll find an 1870 fountain where people often hang out, along with the beautiful Washington Square Arch, the iconic centerpiece monument featured in many films and TV shows. Friends fan, anyone? 😉 Here, you’ll also find street performers, musicians, chess players, and plenty of people enjoying the fun vibe, just like in this video.
Before ending the day, you can also explore some of the awesome cafes in the area, like Gasoline Alley Coffee, Cafe Lyria, and make sure to drop by Freeman Alley, where you'll find some of the finest graffiti art. My local friend told me that graffiti is always changing and evolving, which makes it fun to see each time. A big shout out to my friend, Danielle, for showing me around the hidden gems of NYC! A great place to have dinner here is Freemans, so be sure to check it out while here.
Getting from New York City to Boston
From NYC, you can catch the Amtrak train at Moynihan Train Hall at Penn Station to get to Boston's South Station, which is the nearest station to Boston's city center and it will take you about 4.5 hours. The train ticket should cost around 74 USD if booked early. You can book the Amtrak train here.
Day 12-15: Boston (4 nights)
One of the highlights of visiting Boston is definitely walking the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile (4 km) walking trail that runs from Boston Common all the way to Bunker Hill in Charlestown across the river, and that's one of the first things I recommend you do on your first day in Boston.
You can start your walk at Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States. Right next to the park is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, the Massachusetts State House, a beautiful Federal-style government building with its iconic golden dome. You are going to want to check that out while you are here.
From Boston Common, you’ll notice a red brick line along the walkway. This marks the Freedom Trail, and you can follow it to reach the next site. Some of the key landmarks you'll visit include King's Chapel, the Old State House, and more, so be sure to keep an eye out for them.
As you follow the Freedom Trail, you’ll come across Faneuil Hall Marketplace, a cornerstone of Boston’s history since the 18th century. Here, you’ll also find Quincy Market, with rows of stalls selling everything from food to souvenirs. It’s the perfect spot to take a break from the Freedom Trail and enjoy a quick bite before continuing.
If you haven’t tried Boston’s famous seafood dishes, such as Clam Chowder and Lobster Roll, I highly recommend grabbing some from Boston Chowda Co, a local quick-serve chain specializing in chowders and freshly baked bread.
The walk from there is quite straightforward, mostly on a flat trail, and it will take you through the North End neighborhood, one of the oldest areas in the city. Along the way, you can check out the Paul Revere House, Old North Church, and other attractions before crossing the river to Charlestown.
After you cross the river, be sure to go and check out USS Cassin Young, a destroyer that was originally commissioned during World War II. The ship saw extensive combat, participated in seven battles in the Pacific, and even survived two Kamikaze hits.
While here, you will also see another frigate moored near the destroyer. That's the USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned warship still afloat. You can go inside and tour the wooden frigate, or visit the USS Constitution Museum across the dock to dive even deeper into its history.
At the end of the Freedom Trail, you'll come across a massive obelisk located at the top of Bunker Hill, overlooking Boston. This is the Bunker Hill Monument, built to commemorate the pivotal Battle of Bunker Hill fought in 1775 during the early stages of the American Revolutionary War.
The Obelisk is 221'5" or 67.5 meters high, and you can climb its 294 steps all the way to the top for free. However, they do limit the number of people allowed up there, especially in the summer, as it can get pretty hot inside, and you will be sweating a lot as you make your way up. However, the view of Boston from the top is well worth the effort. You can also visit in the evening for a stunning view, but be sure to time your visit carefully.
At the end of the day, if you are looking for a place to try a Lobster Roll for dinner, I highly recommend Luke's Lobster, a famous seafood chain restaurant from Maine known for its sustainable approach to sourcing seafood, and they serve some of the finest Lobster Rolls here in Boston.
After dinner, you can retreat for the night or take a stroll along Washington Street, the main shopping street in Boston and a perfect place to hang out at night. Boston is especially beautiful at night when the historical sites are lit up, so be sure to explore the city after dark.
On our second day in Boston, we’ll take it slow and go for a little stroll at Public Garden, the first public botanical garden in America. The garden is lined with colorful flowers and beautiful statues, much like a European garden, which is fitting given that Boston was one of the first British colonies in America.
Once that’s done, you can take the metro to the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, a beautifully designed private museum founded by the famous art collector Isabella Stewart Gardner. This is, by far, one of my favorite places in Boston.
The museum includes more than 7,500 works of art spanning multiple centuries and cultures, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, textiles, and rare books, all of which are housed inside this incredible Venetian-style palace, with an incredible courtyard garden right in the middle. You can expect to spend around 1-2 hours here.
After you are done at the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, you might also want to check out the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the largest and most comprehensive art museums in the world, known for its impressive collection that spans across continents and cultures.
Next up, we are going to visit Harvard, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the US, if not the world. Believe it or not, it’s a pretty awesome place to visit as a tourist.
You can take the metro to Harvard and check out Harvard Square, where you can hang out at its many cafes and restaurants. You can also stop here for lunch at one of these spots before we continue our exploration.
After lunch, you can begin your exploration at Harvard Yard, a sprawling tree-lined area surrounded by some of the oldest buildings on campus. It’s one of my favorite spots at Harvard. Many activism events have taken place here, so you’ll often find interesting activities happening, with lots of people out and about here.
There are also many awesome museums you can visit, like the Harvard Art Museums and Harvard Museum of Natural History. While they are a bit smaller than government-run museums, they are still very impressive for campus museums. My favorite is the Harvard Art Museums, which often host creative and exciting exhibitions that you can explore.
While you are in Harvard, make sure to check out WardMaps, an antique map shop in Porter near Harvard where you can buy old authentic maps from all over the world and other vintage souvenirs like stickers and license plates. I probably spent more than 200 USD on these vintage maps alone 😂.
They offer a wide variety of authentic maps, some of which are decades, or even a century old, as well as newly printed maps that are more affordable. You can even order prints online and pick them up in the store the next day.
If you have time to spare, you can also head back to the city and visit New England Aquarium, a massive aquarium where you can see rare marine life that you might not get to see every day, such as the African Penguins and Giant Pacific Octopus. Or if you are a history buff, you might want to check out Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, an interactive history museum where you can learn more about the famous Boston Tea Party event that helped accelerate and intensify colonial support for the American Revolution. If not, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing and preparing for our day trip the next day.
On our third day, we are going to go on a day trip and visit Salem, a city rich with history, particularly centered around the infamous Salem Witch Trials of 1692. If you visit around Halloween, you're in for a treat, as the city really leans into its dark history and truly celebrates Halloween in the best possible way, with events, parades, and wonderful decorations.
Outside of Halloween, the city is still an awesome place to visit, especially if you like history, with awesome sites like the Witch House, where you can learn more about the witch trial that took place, Ropes Mansion and Garden, the filming locations from the beloved 90s movie Hocus Pocus, the House of the Seven Gables, a restored 1668 home that inspired Hawthorne's novel, and more.
To get here, you can either take the Newburyport/Rockport commuter train line from North Station in Boston to Salem. The trip will take about 30 minutes and cost around 8 USD per person. The train goes directly and runs almost hourly from 5:37 AM to 11:50 PM every day.
Another option is to take the ferry from Long Wharf South, and it will take you to Safe Harbor Hawthorne Cove in Salem in about one hour. The ferry ticket is $33 per person, and it is an awesome way to see the Northeast coastline as you travel to Salem.
The ferry ride is especially beautiful at sunset, but be sure to book the sunset time slot in advance as it tends to sell out quickly. My recommendation is to take the train to Salem, explore the city center, and before sunset, walk to Safe Harbor Hawthorne Cove.
You can check out the House of the Seven Gables and the coastal area before taking the ferry back during sunset. That way, you won't have to backtrack to return to Boston. That's how I did it and it was perfect, although I couldn't score the sunset ticket myself, so be sure to book one early. You can buy tickets here.
For dinner, I highly recommend James Hook & Co, a lovely seafood restaurant known for serving incredibly fresh seafood, especially its clam chowder and lobster rolls. Prices range from 7 USD for clam chowder to 35 USD for a large lobster roll, which is not too expensive for Boston.
After dinner, you can either go for another night out along Washington Street or spend the rest of the night relaxing before heading back to your accommodation. Congratulations, you’ve completed the ultimate 2-week itinerary for Northeast USA!
Getting out of Boston
From Boston, you can either continue your trip in Canada by flying to Montreal or Toronto, or you can fly back home via Emirates, European airlines, etc.
When to Visit Northeast USA?
In my experience, the best time to visit the Northeast USA is during the shoulder seasons, specifically between April and May or September and early November. While most travel guides suggest visiting during the peak season (June to August), I found the crowds and the heat overwhelming. Summers are getting hotter every year, so trust me, it’s much better to plan your trip during the cooler, quieter shoulder seasons!
I made this exact trip in October, and it was fantastic! The crowds were much smaller compared to the summer, and the weather was pleasantly cool. There were a couple of cloudy and chilly days, but they didn’t last long, before I knew it, the blue skies were back. You are going to enjoy your trip more if you stick to the recommended periods.
How to Get to Northeast USA?
This itinerary begins in Washington DC, the capital city of the US, so your first step will be getting there. Direct flights to Washington DC are plentiful, with many flights from airlines like Emirates and European Airlines. You can use Skyscanner or Expedia to find the most affordable flights from your home country.
How to Get From Washington DC Airport to Downtown?
Dulles International Airport is the main airport serving Washington, DC and the surrounding areas, and this is where you will likely arrive. The airport is connected to the city center via a metro system, and you should be able to catch the Silver line all the way to the city center.
A ride from the Airport to the city center on the Silver Line should take about 1 hour and cost around 6 USD. The metro system still uses a card system (no tap to pay with a credit card as of 2024) and you can acquire the SmarTrip card at the metro station at the airport. There will be someone helping you out at the ticket machine.
If you use an iPhone or an Android phone and you have data, you do not have to buy the card. You can get the SmarTrip Pass right on your phone via Wallet and Google Wallet respectively, add 6 USD to the card with your credit card, tap the metro gate with your phone, and you are all set. Extremely convenient!
How to Get Around Northeast USA?
By Amtrak: This is going to be the main mode of transportation for this itinerary. All these cities run along the Northeast Corridor which is well connected by the Amtrak train, and you should be able to traverse between these cities very easily, without having to rent a car, which is basically the whole premise of why I created this itinerary.
The Northeast Regional Trains are not the newest, but they are mostly in good functional condition, equipped with modern facilities like a plug and working WIFI. They are also not too expensive, safe, and often on time.
I took the Amtrak all over the northeast, and the experience was surprisingly great. No hiccups at all. To get the cheapest price, be sure to book the ticket at least a few weeks in advance. You can book the Amtrak train here.
By Bus: Although affordable, buses can be a bit dodgy sometimes, but not always, so if you want to save some money, you can check out Flixbus as substitutes to trains.
How Much Money Do I Need For A 2-week Trip To USA?
From this 2-week itinerary, we can calculate approximately how much money you will be spending here (minimum) as follows:
| 🛌 Lodging: | 779 USD (55 USD/Day) |
| 🥘 Food: | 570 USD (40 USD/Day) |
| 🚗 Transport: | 246 USD (17 USD/Day) |
| 🧗 Activities: | 305 USD (21 USD/Day) |
| 💰 Total Budget: | 1,900 USD (135 USD/Day) |
Is it Safe in Northeast USA?
We’ll be visiting large cities and staying in areas with a strong police presence, like NYC and Washington, DC, so you’ll feel as safe as one can feel in big cities in the US. Personally, I felt completely safe in all the cities mentioned here. The only slightly odd experience I had was in downtown Philly, where a guy made some strange gestures at me as he walked past, but it was nothing more than that.
That said, like in most big cities, you’ll encounter many homeless people, often spending time in parks or along the streets. Occasionally, they might shout at passersby, which can startle some people. I witnessed this happening once while walking around at night. The golden rule is to avoid engaging with them, and they’re unlikely to bother you.
As long as you stay aware of your surroundings and avoid making yourself an easy target, especially when walking alone at night, you should be fine here. In the US, being street-smart is key!
Which tourist SIM card is best for the US?
There are three major carriers in the US, namely AT&T, Verizon, and Sprint, that offer prepaid SIM cards for tourists to purchase while traveling in the country. You can usually grab these SIM cards right at the airport, but if you have a smartphone and want data immediately when you arrive, you might want to consider an eSIM.
If you have a smartphone that supports eSIMs, I highly recommend you take a look at this eSIM. They have a variety of data packages, price points, and durations for you to choose from, ranging from 1 GB for 7 days costing only 4.5 USD to 20 GB for 30 days costing 40 USD.
The setup is fast and instant, and you can buy it before your trip so you don't have to scramble to get one at the airport after a long flight. The data speed is also equivalent to what you get with a local SIM card, with 4G speed across the entire country.
For more information on eSIMs in the US, click here: Check the US Available eSIM.
What to Pack for USA?
As you may already know, I am an advocate of light traveling, and indeed, packing light for a journey like this is a unique art form. Here are some packing tips for your upcoming trip to United States of America:
- Walking/Hiking Shoes: With all the walking and possible hiking during your travel, a comfortable pair of shoes is a must. I recommend the Timberland 3-Eye Classic Boat Shoes that are my go-to pair for long strolls and hikes.
- Breathable Shirts: Given the potential for hot weather, pack a few breathable shirts for your outdoor adventures.
- Shorts/Jeans: Anticipate lots of walking during your travels? Be sure to pack some breathable shorts and a pair of Levi's jeans for when the weather cools. For women, leggings are excellent for both hot and cold climates, so consider packing some as well.
- Fleece Jacket: For colder weather, layering is the key, and a fleece jacket makes an excellent insulating layer. I recommend the Columbia Steens Mountain Fleece (for women).
- Outer Shell Jacket: An outer shell jacket is great for windy or rainy conditions. I highly recommend the Columbia Watertight Jacket (for women). It's lightweight, breathable, and even comes in a cool orange color.
- Microfiber Towel: A Microfiber towel is the ideal backpacker's towel due to its lightness, quick drying, and compressibility.
- Camera: You should also pack a good camera for your trip so that you can capture all the beautiful experiences you might have. I recommend the Sony a7R V camera together with the Sony 24-70mm f2.8 GM II lens, which is probably the highest-performance camera and lens combination you can get right now.
- Power Bank: Keep your electronics charged on the go with a 20,000+ mAh Power Bank.
- Water Bottle: The Hydro Flask Trail Water Bottle is a great insulated water bottle to have with you in cities or on hiking trails. It is lightweight and can keep your water cold or warm for more than 12 hours. It's a total game-changer.
- Universal Adapter: You'll need just one universal adapter to plug in your electronics in any country you visit.
- Packing Cubes: Packing Cubes will help you save space in your backpack and keep all your belongings organized.
- Daypack: The Langly Alpha Globetrotter is my go-to everyday camera backpack. It's large enough to carry all my travel gear, and it comes with plenty of slots and pouches. Plus, it's stylish as hell!
- Large Backpack: You will need a large backpack to carry all of your stuff. I recommend the Osprey Atmos AG 65L backpack. With excellent weight distribution and a lifetime guarantee, you can't go wrong with Osprey.
For more information on what I pack in my backpack for this trip, check out: My Packing List: 60 Travel Essentials.
Now that we have all the information we need, it's time to start planning your trip! Here are some resources to help you get going:
Are you planning to travel independently? Be sure to check out my guide on How To Plan A Backpacking Trip here.
Further Reading for Northeast USA
If you are looking for more articles about the Northeast USA, here are a few articles that might help you plan your trip:
- Planning to visit Washington DC for 3 days? Here's an itinerary for you: 3 Days in Washington DC: A Backpacking Itinerary.
- First time visiting the US? Why not start Washington DC, its capital city known for its world-class museums and iconic landmarks like the White House and the Capitol. Here are the 10 best things to do in Washington DC.
- Here's a quick guide on how to get from Dulles Airport to Washington DC Downtown: How to Get From Dulles Airport to Downtown Washington DC.
- Want to visit world-class museums in Washington DC, but not sure where to begin? This is the article for you: 8 Best Museums to Visit in Washington DC.
- Have a day to spare in Washington DC? I highly recommend you check out Georgetown. Here are the 8 Best Things to do in Georgetown, DC.
- Looking to visit Philly for the weekend? Here is the ultimate 2-day Backpacking Itinerary for Philly.
- If you’re a fan of food and history, Philadelphia offers the perfect blend with its incredible museums and some of the best food scenes in the country. Check out the 12 Best Things to Do in Philadelphia (Philly).
- Philly is best explored with your stomach and taste buds. Here are the 7 Best Places to Eat and Drink in Philadelphia (Philly).
- New York City is truly one of the best cities in the world and if you are planning to visit the city, here are the 15 Best Things to Do in New York City.
- Planning to visit New York City, but not sure where to begin? Check out our 4 Days New York City's Backpacking Itinerary.
- Looking for the best places to eat and drink in NYC? You might want to check out: Places to Eat & Drink in New York City: My 9 Favorite Places.
- Chelsea, one of my favorite neighborhoods in NYC, is one awesome place to explore. Here are the 8 Awesome Things to Do in Chelsea, NYC.
- Central Park deserves an entire day of exploration. Here is a complete travel guide to Central Park.
- Should you go up the Empire State Building or the Top of the Rock? Let's find out: Empire State Building vs Top of the Rock: Which One is Better for You?.
- Is it worth buying the CityPass for your trip to New York City? Let's find out: NYC CityPass: Is it worth it?.
- Want to visit Boston? Here are some of the things you do not want to miss! 15 Best Things to Do in Boston.
- Wondering how long to spend in Boston? Check this out: 3 Days in Boston: A Backpacking Itinerary.
- Want to walk the Freedom Trail in Boston, but not sure where to begin? Check out: Boston's Freedom Trail: A Walking Guide.
- Planning to visit Salem? Here's a travel guide for you: Discover Salem: 10 Highlights You Can't Miss.
- To see all articles about the United States of America, be sure to check out our USA travel guide page.
- For a complete itinerary of both the US and Canada, check out: One Month in USA & Canada: A Backpacking Itinerary without Cars.
- Looking for more travel guides for North America? You will find more over at our North America page.
- For more of my travel guides, visit my Destinations page.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.
2 Comments
Hi, Pete. About the food there, did you really only spend 40USD one day?
DId you cook by yourself there?
I heard that it may cost almost 20 USD for one meal in big cities there.
Yes, there is plenty of street food available in these cities. You can get a kebab for 8 USD in NYC, for example. Maximum, you'd pay no more than 15 USD for a cheap meal. Unless you are going to a proper restaurant, spending 20 USD for a meal of one is very unlikely. And no, I didn't cook once on this trip 😂