Eastern Seaboard South
Philly to Savannah
Philadelphia, PASavannah, GA
Trip overview
Trace America's story from the cobblestone streets of Philadelphia to the moss-draped squares of Savannah. This journey through the heart of the East Coast combines iconic historical landmarks with a deep dive into the legendary culinary scenes of Baltimore, Washington D.C., and the Lowcountry.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1 — Philadelphia
Museum of the American Revolution
Begin your historical journey at this modern museum in the heart of historic Philadelphia. Witness George Washington's original headquarters tent and explore immersive exhibits detailing the nation's founding.
101 S 3rd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106
Reading Terminal Market
Grab lunch at one of America's oldest and largest public markets. Feast on a classic Philly cheesesteak from DiNic's Roast Pork (a local favorite) or sample Pennsylvania Dutch specialties.
51 N 12th St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine
After a short drive to Baltimore, visit the birthplace of the U.S. national anthem. Explore the star-shaped fort that defended Baltimore Harbor during the War of 1812 and inspired Francis Scott Key's 'The Star-Spangled Banner'.
2400 E Fort Ave, Baltimore, MD 21230
The Ivy Hotel
Settle in for the night at a luxurious 19th-century mansion turned boutique hotel in the historic Mount Vernon neighborhood, offering a uniquely opulent and historic Baltimore experience.
205 E Biddle St, Baltimore, MD 21202
Day 2 — Washington
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Drive to the nation's capital and immerse yourself in this powerful museum. Its journey through American history from the lens of the African American experience is a profound cultural touchstone. Free timed-entry passes are often required, so book in advance.
1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560
Ben's Chili Bowl
Refuel at a D.C. institution that has served its famous chili half-smokes to everyone from presidents to civil rights leaders since 1958. It's a true taste of local history and culture in the historic U Street corridor.
1213 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009
The Willard InterContinental Washington
Stay at a legendary hotel steeped in political history, located just steps from the White House. The term 'lobbyist' is said to have been coined here, and its Round Robin Bar is a classic D.C. experience.
1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Day 3 — Washington
National Mall Memorials
Spend the morning exploring the iconic monuments and memorials that define the American narrative. Walk from the Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument and the World War II Memorial, reflecting on pivotal moments in U.S. history.
National Mall, Washington, DC 20565
National Portrait Gallery
Discover the story of America through the individuals who have shaped it. This Smithsonian museum houses the only complete collection of presidential portraits outside the White House, alongside captivating portraits of poets, activists, and icons.
8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
Le Diplomate
Dine in a meticulously recreated Parisian brasserie that has become a cornerstone of D.C.'s culinary scene. Known for its bustling atmosphere and classic French fare, it offers a cultural escape and excellent people-watching.
1601 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Day 4 — Richmond
American Civil War Museum at Historic Tredegar
Drive to the former capital of the Confederacy and explore this museum located at a historic ironworks. It presents the Civil War from Union, Confederate, and African American perspectives, offering a comprehensive and nuanced look at the conflict.
480 Tredegar St, Richmond, VA 23219
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
Experience a world-class art collection with strengths in Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and the art of South Asia, all with free general admission. The outdoor sculpture garden is a beautiful spot to relax.
200 N Arthur Ashe Blvd, Richmond, VA 23220
L'Opossum
Indulge in a whimsical and highly acclaimed dining experience from James Beard-nominated chef David Shannon. The eclectic decor and inventive, French-inspired menu make for an unforgettable culinary adventure. Reservations are essential.
626 China St, Richmond, VA 23220
The Jefferson Hotel
Stay in a breathtaking Gilded Age landmark. The stunning Palm Court lobby, with its grand staircase reputedly inspiring 'Gone with the Wind', provides a truly historic and elegant Richmond base.
101 W Franklin St, Richmond, VA 23220
Day 5 — Raleigh
Poole's Diner
Head south to Raleigh for lunch at this retro-chic diner from James Beard Award-winning chef Ashley Christensen. The menu, written on chalkboards, features sophisticated comfort food, with the Macaroni au Gratin being a non-negotiable must-try.
426 S McDowell St, Raleigh, NC 27601
Duke University Chapel
Visit the stunning centerpiece of Duke University's campus in nearby Durham. This masterpiece of Gothic architecture features soaring ceilings, intricate stained glass, and a powerful sense of history and academic culture.
401 Chapel Dr, Durham, NC 27708
Historic Yates Mill County Park
Step back in time at the last operable water-powered gristmill in Wake County. Tour the historic mill (check tour schedules), learn about local agricultural history, and enjoy the peaceful nature trails surrounding the millpond.
4620 Lake Wheeler Rd, Raleigh, NC 27603
The Durham Hotel
Check into this mid-century modern gem in the heart of downtown Durham. Don't miss the rooftop bar for fantastic cocktails and panoramic city views.
315 E Chapel Hill St, Durham, NC 27701
Day 6 — Charleston
Fort Sumter National Monument
After driving to Charleston, take a ferry to the island fort where the first shots of the Civil War were fired. The boat ride offers fantastic views of the harbor and Charleston skyline, while the fort itself is a somber and essential piece of American history.
Fort Sumter, Charleston, SC 29412
Husk
Experience the restaurant that redefined Southern cuisine. Helmed by celebrated chefs, Husk's rule is 'if it doesn't come from the South, it's not coming through the door.' Reservations are highly recommended for this essential taste of Lowcountry terroir.
76 Queen St, Charleston, SC 29401
The Spectator Hotel
Check into a glamorous 1920s-themed boutique hotel known for its personal butler service and a swanky, speakeasy-style bar. It's the perfect luxurious base for exploring Charleston's historic district.
67 State St, Charleston, SC 29401
Day 7 — Charleston
Historic Charleston City Market
Start your day at one of the nation's oldest public markets. Browse for local crafts and food products, and be sure to see the Gullah artisans weaving beautiful sweetgrass baskets, a cherished local cultural tradition.
188 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
Rainbow Row
Stroll along East Bay Street to admire and photograph this iconic series of thirteen colorful historic houses. This is one of Charleston's most famous and picturesque landmarks, representing the city's unique architectural charm.
83-107 E Bay St, Charleston, SC 29401
Nathaniel Russell House Museum
Tour one of America's most important Neoclassical houses. Admire the breathtaking free-flying staircase and exquisitely restored interiors that tell the story of the wealthy merchant family and the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
51 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
FIG
For your final dinner in Charleston, secure a coveted reservation at FIG (Food Is Good). This James Beard Award-winning restaurant is a pioneer of the farm-to-table movement, offering a simple, elegant menu that highlights the best of Lowcountry ingredients.
232 Meeting St, Charleston, SC 29401
Day 8 — Thunderbolt
Bonaventure Cemetery
Drive to Savannah and your first stop is this hauntingly beautiful Victorian cemetery, made famous by 'Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.' Stroll beneath ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss and discover the elaborate tombs and sculptures.
330 Bonaventure Rd, Thunderbolt, GA 31404
The Olde Pink House
Have a celebratory final meal in an iconic 18th-century mansion, one of Savannah's most beloved restaurants. Enjoy upscale Southern cuisine in a historic, candlelit setting that perfectly captures the city's charm and rumored to have a few resident ghosts.
23 Abercorn St, Savannah, GA 31401
Forsyth Park
Conclude your trip with a leisurely walk through Savannah's most famous park. Admire the iconic cast-iron fountain, relax under the shade of the live oaks, and soak in the atmosphere of this quintessential Southern city.
2 W Gaston St, Savannah, GA 31401
Experiences & guides
Bookable tours and stops worth a detour along this route.
Experiences
Guide content may not reflect current conditions. Always verify information before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
The Philly to Savannah road trip covers about 962 mi and roughly 18h 42m of driving, comfortably spread across about 8 days.
This itinerary maps out 28 stops from Philadelphia, PA to Savannah, GA. Highlights include Museum of the American Revolution, Reading Terminal Market, and Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine.
It begins in Philadelphia, PA and ends in Savannah, GA, following a mapped, road-following route the whole way.
The estimated cost is around $4,108, covering fuel, lodging, food, and activities. Your actual total varies with the season, your pace, and the choices you make along the way.
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