📍 United States

MID-ATLANTIC COAST: WILD PONIES, LIGHTHOUSES AND SHORE TOWNS

Wild ponies wading through salt marshes, Victorian towers guarding sandy capes, lighthouses guiding through barrier islands. Mid-Atlantic coast, quiet magic.

≈ 7
Days
477
Km
5
Stops
📖 4 min read 🔄 Last updated: 2026-01-17

Explore Chincoteague and its wild ponies, then enjoy Ocean City for a beach break on the boardwalk. Reach Cape May and its colorful Victorian houses, before ending in Philadelphia, between colonial history and great museums. A coastal itinerary alternating nature, beaches and beautiful cities, perfect for varying moods without forcing.

Your day-by-day itinerary

1
Day

Virginia Beach

navy jets resort beaches boardwalk sunrise

🔍

Discover

1
Virginia Beach oceanfront — boardwalk stroll and First Landing State Park maritime forest for a warm‑up.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 170.7 km
Travel time: 2h08
2
Day

Chincoteague

wild ponies salt marsh refuge oysters

🔍

Discover

1
Drive the Eastern Shore to Chincoteague; lighthouse area and wildlife loop on Assateague Island National Seashore (wild ponies, migratory birds).
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 67.2 km
Travel time: 1h07
3
Day

Ocean

🔍

Discover

1
Assateague Island (MD district) beach stops and marsh boardwalks; evening Ocean City boardwalk for classic shore treats.
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 88.9 km
Travel time: 1h29
4
Day

Cape May

victorian painted ladies birding lighthouse cape

🔍

Discover

1
Ferry or drive to Cape May; Victorian seaside architecture walk and lighthouse climb for raptor flyway views (seasonal).
🚗
Next stop
Distance: 149.9 km
Travel time: 2h30
5
Day

Philadelphia

liberty bell rocky steps cheesesteak art

🔍

Discover

1
Drive up Delaware Bay to Philadelphia; Independence National Historical Park highlights and Old City cobbles.
6
Day

Philadelphia

liberty bell rocky steps cheesesteak art

🔍

Discover

1
Schuylkill River Trail morning walk; departure buffer.

🗺️ Itinerary map

🗺️ Nearby itineraries

🛡️ Travel advice - United States

Check official recommendations

UK Foreign Travel Advice →

❓ Frequently asked questions

What weather should you expect?

Spring (April-May): Perfect weather across most regions (15-25°C) with blooming landscapes, moderate crowds, and excellent conditions for national parks and cities. Ideal for diverse activities nationwide.

Autumn (September-October): Excellent temperatures with spectacular fall foliage, harvest festivals, and comfortable weather. Perfect for outdoor activities, cultural events, fewer crowds than summer.

Summer (June-August): Peak season with warmest weather but highest crowds and prices. Excellent for northern regions, challenging in southwestern deserts, perfect for beaches and national parks.

Winter (December-February): Variable conditions from tropical Florida to snowy Colorado. Perfect for skiing, southern destinations, indoor attractions, lowest prices outside holiday periods.

How many days should I plan?

We believe you will enjoy this itinerary best by dedicating between 6 and 8 days. The next step will allow you to adjust the duration of your stay.

What to discover in United States?

Continental diversity with iconic landmarks, cultural melting pot, and endless possibilities. Experience natural wonders, vibrant cities, and authentic American dreams from coast to coast. The country offers incredible diversity with modern amenities and cultural richness. United States provides life-changing experiences with natural beauty and cultural authenticity.