Despite my recent efforts to explore more of the United States, there are many gaps I still have to fill in. While last year’s epic road trip let me explore the central U.S. and my recent Pacific Coast tour allowed me to thoroughly explore the west, the map on my wall keeps taunting me with the fact that I’ve never made it to the East Coast. Today, I’m dreaming of travel in Virginia, Alabama, and Florida. Here are a few destinations I hope to make it to soon.
Virginia Beach, VA
Virginia Beach offers a chance to step back in time since it is full with historic attractions. This includes sites like a 1792 lighthouse, the First Landing State Park, several well-preserved buildings from the 1700s, and much more. Then, when I’m done reliving history, I’ll go back to my Virginia Beach oceanfront hotel—or maybe a bed and breakfast near Cape Henry—and unwind near the waterside.
Tuscaloosa, AL
Thanks to the University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa has a bustling nightlife and plenty of great attractions. From the Alabama Museum of Natural History to the Tuscaloosa Museum of Art, the city has something to satisfy my diverse tastes. Tuscaloosa has plenty of affordable hotels and is just an hour away from Birmingham and two hours away from Montgomery, which makes it a great resting place on the way.
Panama City, FL
In Northern Florida, Panama City offers the perfect waypoint between Pensacola and Tallahassee. That’s not to say it lacks its own attractions. I’ll likely spend a day at Shipwreck Island Waterpark, which is one of the best rated attractions of its kind , and then explore the Panama City Beach Winery, which has extensive and adventurous wine tasting experiences. A stay in a comfortable Panama City hotel will help me recharge before I move deeper into Florida.
Sarasota, FL
One thing I’m excited for is an architecture tour in Sarasota, which hits major sites like the Sarasota Opera House, Ca d’Zan Mansion, and the John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art. From there, I’m likely to focus on the waterfront and natural attractions such as the Myakka River State Park, the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, South Lido Park, and the Legacy Trail. While I’ll stay in one of the many hotels right along Sarasota Bay, there are also more budget-friendly accommodations throughout the city.
Fort Myers, FL
I want to go to Fort Myers for the Imaginarium, a museum/aquarium with dozens of interactive experiences. I’m deeply kinesthetic, so it’s right up my alley. There are other things I’ll do in Fort Myers: visit Lakes Regional Park, walk the Fort Myers River District, and spend a few hours at the Butterfly Estates. A stay in a beautiful Fort Myers hotel will wrap my trip up nicely.
These are just a few of the cities I’m dreaming of visiting. How about you? Do you have any plans underway or are you still just dreaming of travel? Leave your upcoming travel plans and dream destinations in the comments, below.
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