These 8 Towns on the Atlantic Coast Have Bustling Main Streets
From the state of New York all the way down to sunny Florida, the Atlantic Coast has many stunning towns with bustling main streets. Leave the car behind, skip the gas and mileage, and grab a good pair of shoes—it's time to explore. Nothing beats pampering yourself with waterfront dining in Connecticut. Dig into that fresh seafood straight from the source. From historical sites in New Bern to the iconic nightlife in Key West, the Atlantic Coast is a hotspot for wining, dining, and having the time of your life.
Key West, Florida
Key West is a year-round tropical paradise on the Atlantic Coast with a buzzing nightlife and the best in American cuisine. Hit up Duval Street for legendary bars, energetic nightclubs, and restaurants with the best flavors. Have an epic meal at Fogarty’s and the Flying Monkeys Saloon. Hit the refresh button with their famous frozen drinks and dig into some key lime pie, a Key West specialty. Sloppy Joe's is another Duval Street symbol of fun. This worldwide icon has been alive since the 1930s. Catch live music, sip on the award-winning Sloppy Rita, and feel those laid-back Florida vibes. Next up is Hog’s Breath Saloon, another famous Key West legend. Kick back with the daily entertainment, sip a cold one on the outdoor patio, and dig into a mouthwatering pulled pork sandwich. Do not forget to grab a Hog's Breath t-shirt or bottle of hot sauce to commemorate your Florida bucket list.
After dining like royalty, it is time to hit the hay. Book an epic stay at The Mansion on the Sea at the end of Duval Street. Be in the center of all the action with many attractions within walking distance, like Simonton Street Beach and Key West Butterfly Conservatory. Originally built in 1897 as a family home, this tropical haven boasts luxurious guest rooms, some with an ocean view. Each stay at The Mansion on the Sea tells a different story with each guestroom featuring different decor, color scheme, and overall atmosphere. It is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. Bask in the modern amenities like the heated infinity pool and free Wi-Fi.
Mystic, Connecticut
Get ready to be mystified by Mystic and experience the best of waterfront shopping on the Atlantic Coast. Pick up a new read at Bank Square Books and find your next favorite book. Grab a unique souvenir from Mystic Knotwork. Nothing says coastal Connecticut like a handmade, woven bracelet. Show your Mystic spirit by purchasing a hoodie or long sleeve from Just Mystic Clothing. After a long, fun-filled day of shopping, soak in the views of the Mystic River conveniently by the scenic main street.
Extend your stay in Mystic at The Whaler's Inn, conveniently located on the historic main street downtown. Another stunning coastal New England accommodation is The 1865 House. Book a stay and experience the incredible blend of luxury, history, and a touch of the nautical Connecticut lifestyle.
Mystic is a foodie paradise, with eateries ranging from authentic Ramen to delectable ice cream. Try incomparable flavors, such as a peppermint stout or caramel apple cider at Bank & Bridge Brewing. Their brews are truly one of a kind. Fill up on coastal eats at The Mariner. Nothing beats some New England Clam Chowder or hot lobster rolls fresh from the source. Visitors looking to fuel their bodies and indulge in healthy will love Pop Over Eatery. Energize your system with classic avocado toast, a harvest salad bowl, or a green monster smoothie.
Beaufort, South Carolina
The downtown area of Beaufort, South Carolina, exudes an incredible blend of history, local specialties, charming streets, and Southern hospitality. Get a glimpse of Beaufort's heritage on Bay Street with its unique accommodations. Book a stay at Anchorage 1770, a historic beauty with stunning waterfront guestrooms, serving the area since 1770. Another unparalleled adventure is spending a few nights at The Cuthbert House. This striking 18th-century mansion offers a luxurious bed and breakfast experience in a timeless interior. Just down the street from Anchorage 1770 and The Cuthbert House is the John Mark Verdier House, built in 1804. Throughout the years, the home has been everything from a restaurant to a barbershop and is currently a historical museum.
Indulge in the fine arts on Bay Street in Beaufort. See the gorgeous collection of paintings at Melissa Lyons Art. Take home a piece of coastal South Carolina with a beautiful painting of sea glass, oysters, or the shoreline. Pick up an iconic F.R.O.G. mug and browse photography, oil, and watercolor paintings at Thibault Gallery. This award-winning art gallery is a local and visitor favorite. Historical inside and out, Rhett Gallery is a beautifully restored 1884 architectural masterpiece. Check out a unique collection of antiques, including maps, Civil War artifacts, and guitars.
Cape May, New Jersey
Cape May is a striking New Jersey town on the Atlantic Coast known for its pristine beaches, stunning Victorian homes, and the Washington Street Mall. Spend the day strolling around the outdoor mall. Visit over 75 shops, restaurants, cafes, and even a real estate office if you really plan on extending your stay.
Bring Fido to Collar and Bone, for pet accessories and a dog ice cream shop because even furry friends deserve indulgence. Afterward, head to the Beef Jerky Experience for a treat you can both enjoy. With over 100 kinds of jerky, it will be hard to settle on just one. Head to Swede Things in America for unique Scandanavian-style items, including Christmas decorations and hand-blown glass. Before leaving New Jersey, grab a nautical-designed tote from Sea Bags to store all your beach goods. You are on the Atlantic Coast, after all.
All that walking can stir up quite an appetite. Thankfully, Washington Street Mall is a paradise for food lovers. Sip on a cappuccino while admiring local artwork at the Art Block Cafe. This unique cafe is where art and gourmet offerings blend together. Devour fresh seafood at Cape May Fish Market. Enjoy specialties like a crab cake croissant and a lobster roll at this Atlantic Coast gem. For evening eats, have a romantic dinner at Tisha's Fine Dining. Impress your date with a plate of Pasta Puttanesca or Filet au Poivre.
Nantucket, Massachusettes
Nantucket is a serene island off the coast of Cape Cod. This coastal marvel boasts a stunning historical downtown area adorned with cobblestone streets and a picture-worthy main street. Accessible by plane or ferry, spend a day immersed in the historical charm of this Atlantic Coast paradise.
Main Street, Nantucket, is a striking area with shops, galleries, and historical buildings. Commonly referred to as "Two Greeks", 94 Main Street is home to an 1847 architectural work of art. Continue your journey to the Hadwen House and see the colossal columns that hold up this Greek-style property. Built in 1846, Hadwen House is an iconic Nantucket landmark. Since 1800, Thomas Macy House has been standing proud on Main Street. This sophisticated structure on 99 Main Street is not to be missed. Finish the historical tour by visiting the Old Jail on Vestal Street. Although restored in 2013-2014, it was originally crafted in 1805 and is free to visit.
Shop til you drop on Nantucket's stunning main street and remember your Massachusetts journey. Purchase fashions for the whole family from Murray's Toggery Shop. Cozy up with a new sweater or jacket, or stock up on gifts like flasks and watches. Support local at Stephaine's, a cute and eclectic Nantucket gift shop. Bask in the glory of the Atlantic Coast with a salt scrub or candle from the Nantucket Island Collection. Finish off the day with a lovely dinner at or, The Whale. Don't go to bed hungry, enjoy steak frites, crispy calamari, and spicy rice cakes.
Annapolis, Maryland
Join the crew on West Street, the heart of Annapolis. Catch a lively event through the Inner West Street Association, hosted by various establishments throughout West Street. Be in awe at the Corvette Show, celebrate the holiday season at the Chocolate Binge Festival, and live up the spooky season with a Scarecrow Stroll. From May to November, be part of the excitement at First Sunday Arts Festival. This energetic event features live music and a variety of creative feats. Check out metalwork, wood carvings, pottery, and other handmade artistry. Both day and night, West Street lights up Annapolis.
Discover the fresh taste of the Atlantic Coast and more cuisines than you can count when venturing through West Street. Eat your body weight in seafood at the Sailor Oyster Bar, a local favorite for oysters and caviar. Warm up with a good old bowl of ramen or miso soup at Tsunami. This Asian cuisine-featured restaurant has dishes varying from rice, noodles, and dumplings to satisfy your hunger. Wake up with a hearty breakfast, brunch, or lunch from Miss Shirley's. Nothing beats homemade donuts or some classic American fried chicken and waffles. Get ready to say Opa at Paul's Homewood Cafe with delicious Greek and Mediterranean eats. Try classics like Spanakopita, Dolmades, or Chicken Souvlaki.
New Hope, Pennsylvania
Located alongside the Delaware River, New Hope is an idyllic Pennsylvania town on the Atlantic Coast with a historic main street. Since 1784, Parry Mansion has graced the area of New Hope. The mansion's previous owner, Benjamin Parry, was known as "Father of New Hope". From May to September, tour Parry Mansion and walk through history. Explore each room that symbolizes a different era during Parry's residence. Spoil yourself with a night of fun-loving performances at Bucks County Playhouse. Since 1939, this historical theatre has entertained New Hope residents and visitors. Past shows include Portrait of Aretha and Million Dollar Quartet. Stop by the Playhouse Deck Restaurant and Bar, conveniently on-site at the Bucks County Playhouse to cure your hunger. Enjoy a fresh, seasonal menu and waterfront dining along the Delaware River.
Eat and shop all day long on New Hope's quirky Main Street. Purchase a one-of-a-kind outfit from the unique collection at Thirteen Vintage. Turn heads and make a statement with clothing and accessories in horror, gothic, or punk-themed. Continue your unique treasure hunt at Love Saves The Day, a top-rated local thrift shop with goodies waiting to come home with you. Afterward, try something a little different at V-Spot, a cozy vegan restaurant in New Hope. Their Butternut Squash Ravioli or Seitan Beef may find a special place in your heart. Check in at the Ghost Light Inn to cap off the day. Bask in the VIP treatment at this exclusive boutique hotel with only 12 guestrooms. Wake up to the glorious Delaware River or the charming Main Street.
New Bern, North Carolina
New Bern is a historic gem on the Atlantic Coast. Live it up on Broad Street and Middle Street. Both roads connect you to the excitement. From museums and historical monuments to eclectic and indulgent eats, New Bern is a captivating North Carolina sanctuary.
Discover New Bern's rich roots on the main streets. Since 1955, New Bern's Fire Museum has fascinated and engaged visitors of all ages. Learn about the worst fire in New Bern's history, the Fire of 1922, and venture through the past chronicles of the Atlantic Company and Button Company.
Connected to Broad Street is George Street, another path through history. Take a short stroll down George Street to see the John Wright Stanly House. This 1780s wonder boasts stunning Georgian architecture. The same man who designed the home also created Tryon Palace, which is just down the street. Home to 18 galleries and exhibits, palace gardens, and historic homes, Tryon Palace is an icon both inside and out.
Keep your tastebuds and tummy satisfied in New Bern. Kick back at Crema Brew. This top-rated, cozy, and well-loved coffeehouse has a huge list of warm drinks and a welcoming atmosphere. Try one of the Bear Lattes or treat yourself to homemade baked goods made with love, like Roxanne's Shoofly Pie. Take a slight detour from Broad Street onto Middle Street and check out The Cow Cafe, an eccentric cow-themed cafe. Enjoy ice cream sundaes and filling sandwiches in this fun, black-and-white print atmosphere.
Experience the Atlantic Coast
Experience the beauty of the Atlantic Coast, a hotspot for bustling main streets perfect for exploring, shopping, and indulging. Eat your heart out in Key West or see Beaufort's seamless blend of history and art. Relish in Mystic's foodie heaven with the best waterfront shopping, or try the eclectic eateries in New Bern. Annapolis's West Street is intriguing with lively year-round events or discover the unique shopping in New Hope. Stroll the cobblestone streets in photo-worthy Nantucket or shop until your bags are as heavy as dumbells at the epic Washington Street Mall in Cape May. Either way, there is a town on the Atlantic Coast ready to steal your heart.
