The Best National Parks on the East Coast??
On February 25, 2026 By newsroom Topic: Traveler buyers guide
- Shenandoah National Park, VA
- Located in the Blue Ridge Mountains with scenic drives (Skyline Drive).
- Activities: Hiking, camping, biking, and ranger programs.
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Where to Stay: Skyland Resort or nearby Hilton Honors hotels like Hampton Inn Front Royal.
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Acadia National Park, ME
- Features coastal beauty, Cadillac Mountain (first U.S. sunrise), and Bar Harbor for whale watching.
- Seasonal activities: Hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and skiing.
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Where to Stay: Best Western Acadia Park offers complimentary breakfast and parking.
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Everglades National Park, FL
- Subtropical wilderness with wildlife like crocodiles, manatees, and Florida panthers.
- Activities: Hiking, boat tours, and exploring trails like Anhinga Trail.
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Where to Stay: Hilton Honors properties (Home2 Suites Florida City) or luxury IHG hotels (InterContinental Miami).
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Biscayne National Park, FL
- Underwater exploration of coral reefs and shipwrecks (Maritime Heritage Trail).
- Activities: Glass-bottom boat tours, snorkeling, and diving.
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Where to Stay: Marriott Bonvoy’s Courtyard Miami Homestead or Hilton properties.
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Dry Tortugas National Park, FL
- Accessible only by boat or seaplane, featuring marine life, coral reefs, and Fort Jefferson.
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Where to Stay: Stay in Key West, such as Casa Marina Key West (Hilton Honors).
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Great Smoky Mountains National Park, TN/NC
- Year-round adventures: Hiking, camping, and biking with stunning fall foliage.
- Popular trails: Chimney Tops, Rainbow Falls, Alum Cave Bluffs.
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Where to Stay: The Park Vista - a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Gatlinburg.
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New River Gorge National Park, WV
- Known for whitewater rafting, hiking (Grandview Area Trails), and rock climbing.
- Where to Stay: Beckley hotels like Country Inn & Suites by Radisson or Holiday Inn & Suites.
Recap
- East Coast national parks offer diverse experiences: forested mountains, coastal beauty, and underwater adventures.
- Options to earn/redeem hotel points make planning stays near these parks even more rewarding!
Plan your outdoor adventure today!
