3 day itinerary for East Coast Area National Parks With A Day In New York

Itinerary

That sounds like an exciting trip! Let’s dive into a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that combines the beauty of East Coast national parks with a day in the vibrant city of New York. Buckle up, because we’re going to have a blast!

## Day 1: New York City Adventure

Morning:

• Breakfast: Start your day with a classic New York bagel! Head to a local favorite like Ess-a-Bagel or Russ & Daughters for a delicious bagel with cream cheese and lox.
• Central Park: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through Central Park. You can visit iconic spots like Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and the Central Park Zoo. Don’t forget to snap some photos!

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Grab a slice of New York pizza at Joe’s Pizza or a deli sandwich at Katz’s Delicatessen.
• Museums: Spend your afternoon exploring the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the American Museum of Natural History. Both are fantastic and offer a glimpse into art and history.

Evening:

• Dinner: Treat yourself to dinner in the West Village. Try a cozy spot like The Spotted Pig for some gastropub fare.
• Broadway Show: If you’re up for it, catch a Broadway show! Check out what’s playing and grab tickets in advance for a memorable night.

## Day 2: Shenandoah National Park, Virginia

Morning:

• Drive to Shenandoah: After breakfast, hit the road early for Shenandoah National Park (about a 1.5-2 hour drive from NYC). Enjoy the scenic views along Skyline Drive.
• Hiking: Start with a hike on the Stony Man Trail. It’s a short, easy hike with stunning views at the summit.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the park’s scenic overlooks or stop by a local eatery in nearby Luray.
• Explore: After lunch, take a leisurely drive along Skyline Drive, stopping at various overlooks. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider a longer hike, like the Dark Hollow Falls Trail.

Evening:

• Dinner: Head to the town of Luray for dinner. Try out a local restaurant like The Mimslyn Inn for some Southern comfort food.
• Stay Overnight: Book a cozy cabin or a charming inn in the area to rest up for the next day.

## Day 3: Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee/North Carolina

Morning:

• Drive to Great Smoky Mountains: After breakfast, set off for Great Smoky Mountains National Park (about a 4-5 hour drive from Shenandoah). Enjoy the scenic drive and maybe stop for coffee along the way.
• Cades Cove: Once you arrive, head to Cades Cove. It’s a beautiful valley with a loop road that offers wildlife viewing and historical buildings.

Afternoon:

• Lunch: Pack a lunch to enjoy in Cades Cove or stop at a local café in nearby Townsend.
• Hiking: Spend your afternoon hiking one of the many trails. The Laurel Falls Trail is a popular choice, leading to a stunning waterfall.

Evening:

• Dinner: After a day of exploring, head to Gatlinburg or Pigeon Forge for dinner. Try The Peddler Steakhouse for a hearty meal.
• Stay Overnight: Consider staying in Gatlinburg for a fun mountain town vibe, with plenty of options for accommodations.

Bonus Tips:

• Pack Smart: Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, a reusable water bottle, and snacks for the road.
• Check Park Conditions: Before you go, check the national park websites for any alerts or trail conditions.
• Enjoy the Journey: The drive between these locations is part of the adventure, so take your time and enjoy the scenery!

And there you have it! A perfect blend of city life and nature’s beauty. Enjoy your trip, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌆🌲📸