When choosing which coast of the United States of America to visit, there is much debate as to whether the vibrant and bustling East Coast or its slower-paced and laidback West Coast counterpart is better.
You can’t go wrong with either pick, but if you’re debating between the two spectrums, this blog post will help you determine what might be best for your experience.
Here are some helpful reasons why exploring East Coast USA may be a better-suited choice than visiting the West Coast—including historic locations, delicious food options, and top entertainment spots in cities that run through time zones while appreciating classic American beauty along picturesque beaches.
20 Reasons Why East Coast USA Is Better Than The West Coast
1. East Coast is steeped in history
From the colonial-era architecture of Boston to the sprawling museums in Washington, D.C., the East Coast is rich with history and cultural heritage that shouldn’t be missed.
2. There are plenty of delicious dining options available
From seafood shacks to five-star restaurants, there’s no shortage of delicious eats on the East Coast. Try some classic New England clam chowder, or feast on a real Philly cheesesteak when you visit!
3. Fun entertainment choices abound
The East Coast offers plenty of fun entertainment pastimes for all ages—from amusement parks like Six Flags America to outdoor activities like whale watching in Maine and beach days in North Carolina!
4. Multiple languages spoken
The East Coast is home to an incredibly diverse population—so much so that you’ll hear multiple languages in the streets!
5. Weather can vary greatly by location
Depending on where you go on the East Coast, weather can change drastically from one area to another—from snowy winter days in Connecticut to hot summer nights in Florida.
6. Shopping options are endless
Shoppers will be delighted with the wealth of shopping opportunities on the East Coast, from high-end malls for luxury labels to eclectic boutiques and markets for local goods and vintage finds.
7. Transportation is convenient
Along with its abundance of airports, bus lines, trains, car rentals, and bike shares, the East Coast has helpful public transportation systems that make getting around easy.
8. More affordable than the West Coast
In general, it’s cheaper to travel on the East Coast than on the West Coast—especially regarding accommodation and meals!
9. Rich cultural experiences await you
From art galleries in New York City to jazz clubs in New Orleans, there are plenty of ways to explore local cultures while visiting the East Coast.
10. Nightlife galore
The nightlife scene on the East Coast is vibrant and diverse—try your luck at a casino in Atlantic City or take in some live music in Nashville, and you’ll see what we mean!
11. Gorgeous landscapes await
The East Coast offers a variety of stunning natural views—from the rocky cliffs of Maine to the white sand beaches of Florida, you’ll find plenty of places to take in some beautiful scenery.
12. Great for educational trips
If you’re looking for an educational vacation, there’s no better place than the East Coast. Check out the historical sites in Boston or visit some of our nation's top universities like Harvard and Yale!
13. Ideal for family-friendly trips
Whether you're looking for kid-friendly attractions or grandparent-approved activities, the East Coast has it all—including amusement parks, zoos, aquariums, and more!
14. Perfect for short trips
Not everyone has the time or resources to take a lengthy vacation—but luckily, the East Coast is great for short getaways and weekend trips! Spend just a few days exploring what this region offers, and you’ll still walk away with plenty of memories.
15. Easier access to Europe
If you’re looking to visit Europe from the United States, it’s easier (and often cheaper) to fly out of an East Coast airport than one on the West Coast.
16. Home to some of America's best cities,
The East Coast boasts some of America's most popular urban destinations, including New York City, Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington D.C.—all offering incredible sights and attractions.
17. Easier to get around
The East Coast is easier to navigate than the West Coast due to its smaller size and more centralized location—so you’ll have an easier time finding your way around!
18. More nature-filled destinations
Not only does the East Coast feature bustling cities, but it also has plenty of nature-filled areas perfect for hiking, camping, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
19. Get a taste of beach life without going too far.
You don’t have to go to California or Hawaii to experience amazing beaches—head to the East Coast! Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly beach in New Jersey or an adventure-filled one in North Carolina, you’ll find something that suits your needs.
20. Experiences that can only be found on the East Coast
From eating fresh seafood right off fishing boats in Rhode Island to participating in centuries-old traditions like clam bakes and pig roasts, there are plenty of experiences unique to the East Coast that can’t be found anywhere else.
So if you’re trying to decide between the two coasts, consider these 20 reasons why a visit to the East Coast USA may be just what you need! With its rich history, delicious food choices, and diverse entertainment options, East Coast USA has something for everyone!
Plus, you’ll be able to experience everything that makes this side of the country so special. So why wait? Book your trip today!
Food to eat when visiting the East Coast
It offers various delicious cuisine—from regional seafood favorites like lobster rolls and clam chowder in Maine to Italian-American delights such as pizza, pasta, and cheesesteaks in Philadelphia. Some other local delicacies you won’t miss out on include blue crabs from Maryland, pastrami sandwiches from New York City, and Boston cream pie from Massachusetts.
FAQs
Why do more people live on the East Coast than on the West Coast?
The United States East Coast is home to some of the country's largest and most populous cities, such as New York City, Boston, and Philadelphia. This gives people more options regarding lifestyle choices—including employment opportunities and cultural attractions—making it an attractive destination for many.
What types of historic sites can I explore on the East Coast?
There’s no shortage of history along the East Coast! From colonial-era homes in Massachusetts to battlefields from Revolutionary War battles at Saratoga National Historic Park in New York State, there are plenty of historic sites to visit while exploring this part of the United States.
Additionally, you’ll find monuments dedicated to our nation's founders in Washington, D.C. and sites like The Statue of Liberty in New York City and the Freedom Trail in Boston.
What types of entertainment are available on the East Coast?
The East Coast is full of entertainment options for all ages. From Broadway shows in New York City to theme parks like Six Flags Great Adventure in New Jersey, you’ll find many attractions to explore.
Additionally, cities like Washington, D.C., Baltimore, and Philadelphia offer plenty of museums, galleries & theaters that will surely please culture lovers.
There are also countless outdoor activities—from hiking trails in the Appalachian Mountains to beachside fun on the Atlantic Coast!
Conclusion
I hope this blog post has given you a better understanding of what the East Coast offers. From its rich history to its delicious cuisine, there’s something for everyone along this vibrant coastline—so why not plan your next vacation here? With so much to see and do, you won’t be disappointed!