You've probably heard the argument before. "East Coast waves are weak." "It's no Hawaii." "Why bother?" Tell that to the surfers who grew up here. The ones who learned to read nor'easters the way other people read weather apps. The ones who camp out during hurricane season just to catch that perfect swell. The ones who know that when the east coast delivers, it really delivers.

People talk about the West when they talk about national parks. Yellowstone, Yosemite, the Grand Canyon — they get all the glory. But if you've been sleeping on East Coast national parks, you've been missing out on some seriously unforgettable scenery. From the rocky, wind-battered cliffs of Maine to the crystal-blue waters off the Florida Keys, the eastern half of this country has a wild range of landscapes just waiting to be explored.

1917 Cadillac 7-Passenger Touring Car, Grove Park Inn, Grove Park-Sunset, Asheville, NC

You probably think a big east coast road trip costs a fortune. Hotels, gas, entrance fees, lobster rolls — it adds up fast if you're not paying attention. But here's the thing: some of the best stops on the entire East Coast cost very little or nothing at all. The trick is knowing where to go and where to skip. A well-planned east coast road trip on a budget doesn't mean suffering through bad motels and vending machine dinners.

Step back in time on your next walking vacation with a visit to Colonial Williamsburg. This guide covers tours, historic lodging, themed dinners, parking, and more.