The East Coast of the USA is calling — and we’re on our way! New England, Toronto, Niagara Falls, and as the grand finale: New York City! 

I’ve already traveled to the paradise of Hawaii, the wild West of the USA, and the sunny South more than once – but until now, I’ve mostly neglected the East. tsk tsk – But that’s about to change this year, because our road trip through the eastern part of America is just around the corner. 🙂

Before I share a bit about the planned tour, I have to point out that finding travel companions this time was a real struggle. Not because there was no interest, but every time we thought the group was finally set, someone had to drop out — once due to a family bereavement and another time because of an injury. But despite all these setbacks, we finally made it! The team is ready: Michael, Guido, Tobi, and of course myself. And now I’m curious to see what our little chaos crew will leave behind of the USA.

But now, let’s get to the highlights of our planned journey through the East:

On May 24th, we’re off on a three-week trip from Germany/Düsseldorf to New York (JFK). From there, we’ll immediately hit the road in a massive premium SUV, leaving the city behind right after landing to head toward Boston. We’re saving New York as the grand finale for the end of the trip. 🙂

Outside the Big Apple, we’ll be staying in the New Haven area and making our way to Boston early in the morning. There, the Freedom Trail awaits—a 4-kilometer sightseeing route that connects seventeen historic landmarks and gives us a quick overview of Boston’s rich history. A stroll through the charming neighborhood of Beacon Hill will take us, among other things, to the cobblestoned Acorn Street, known as one of the most photographed streets in the U.S. We’ll wrap up the evening in a cozy bar on this Saturday night.

The next day, after breakfast, we’ll continue our journey north toward Portland. On the way, we’ll pass through Portsmouth and Kennebunkport—a place that feels frozen in time and is famously known as the summer retreat of former U.S. President George H.W. Bush.

A visit to the famous Head Light is a must when in Portland. It is the oldest lighthouse in the state of Maine, constructed and built in 1787. The next day, we’ll continue on to our northernmost point in the state of Maine – the small coastal town of Bar Harbor. It won’t take long after our arrival to understand why this place on Mount Desert Island has long been a popular vacation destination. The community places great importance on preserving its historical heritage and delights visitors with scenic mountain views, classic New England charm, and a wide range of outdoor adventures.

But now it’s time to head to Canada. We’ll spend the night in the city of Sherbrooke, in the province of Quebec, where we’ll already begin to experience the region’s French influence.

After a hearty breakfast in the morning, we’ll head to Montreal – a vibrant metropolis that not only hosted the 1967 World Expo but also the 1976 Summer Olympics. From the 233-meter-high Mount Royal hill, we’ll enjoy a spectacular view over the city, and shortly after, wandering through Old Montreal, we’ll feel as if we’ve been transported to Paris. This part of the city is defined by historic buildings and a replica of Notre-Dame – the Notre-Dame de Montréal. On our way to Toronto, we’ll make a quick stop in Kingston, often called the “Grandmother of Canada’s Capital Cities.”

As if I had planned it that way, we arrive in Toronto right on a Saturday—perfect timing for a night out at the Rebel Club, one of the hottest spots in the city. Of course, we also take in the skyline from above, heading up Toronto’s iconic CN Tower all the way to the top viewing platform at the very tip of the structure.

After two nights in Ontario’s capital, we hit the road early to make it to Niagara Falls right on time. Here, we hop on a boat that takes us close—very close—to the falls. And yes, we get wet. Very wet. But hey, it’s June—bring it on! 🙂

Next up is the “Journey Behind the Falls.” An elevator takes us nearly 40 meters underground into a 125-year-old tunnel. Now, we’re standing behind the roaring curtain of water. It’s going to be spectacular.

To wrap up our Niagara adventure, we head off the beaten path to a jet boat operator—and blast through the rapids at full speed. By the end, we’re absolutely soaked. And loving every second of it.

Back at the waterfalls, we spend our final night in Canada to enjoy the evening on the observation deck of the Skylon Tower, taking in the view of the illuminated falls.

The next morning, we cross the border back into the United States and head straight to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Here, three rivers meet, and after a ride on the Duquesne Incline up the city’s nearby hill, we’re treated to a perfect view of the city skyline.

Today marks the longest leg of our journey as we head to Richmond. In Virginia’s capital, the call to the Revolutionary War was made in 1755. It was also home to Jefferson Davis, the president of the Confederate States during the Civil War. A historically very significant and important city for the United States.

Our trip then continues to Norfolk, where we not only find the world’s largest naval base but also the majority of the U.S. Navy’s aircraft carriers. A visit to the largest battleship, the USS Wisconsin, is a must and not to be missed.

Back on the Atlantic coast, we’re now heading to the charming town of Ocean City – a classic American beach getaway. Let’s hope the weather’s on our side so we can dive into the waves. 🙂

The next two cities really need no introduction: Washington and Philadelphia are up next. After that, we’re off to Atlantic City – the Las Vegas of the East.

And then comes the crowning highlight of our journey… the Big Apple, NEW YORK! We’ll spend three nights here before heading back home. But those three days are going to be intense – our feet will definitely be on fire. 🙂

One major highlight awaits us in New York: a helicopter flight over the city with FlyNYON. They’re the only company offering open-door flights – guaranteeing not only breathtaking views but also the chance to capture the perfect shot. An unforgettable adventure!

After these last three nights in one of the most exciting cities in the world, we’ll probably be flying back to Germany in the evening – with a head full of unforgettable memories.

But what exactly we’ll have experienced – and what might end up being very different from what I’m describing right now – well, we’ll see… and so will you, in my upcoming road movie with the promising title: “Hangover 4 – Total Madness Unleashed!”