Where are you planning to fly in to? Time of year? There are a boat load of parks on the east coast that are an easy drive to each other. I imagine you'll run out of time before you run out of parks. If you can do mid to late August a lot of parks are still open everyday, but also a lot of schools are back in session. Definitely helps with the crowds. If you'll be in NYC the Cyclone is running great these days. Wonder Wheel is also pretty cool there, but nothing else overly exciting ride wise. Cool place to visit though. The Jersey Shore is also quite a scene at night, but once again not the greatest coasters.

Here is a list of coaster events, some you need to be an ACE member, others events you can be a member of any coaster club (some are free or dirt cheap). Might be worth checking out if the timing is right.

https://www.aceonline.org/events/event_list.asp

Another +1 for Knoebels, can't go wrong with the Phoenix!

Our new Devil Coaster in NJ should be a blast...

Or you could save a few $$$ and just come by and play my fine collection of coaster pins and pretend you're at a park. Guaranteed short lines!

Are you looking to do an all coaster trip or interested in other stuff too? If so you might be better off hanging along the coast rather than the mid-west. How many weeks are you thinking? That would be a long haul for 1 week. Seems like most friends that have taken a trip to Australia or NZ spent at least 2 weeks there.

Yes, the guy standing is the brakeman.