road trip from nyc to bar harbor maine

Ultimate New York To Maine Road Trip Itinerary

The Best Driving Itinerary From New York City to Bar Harbor  

Have you been longing for cooling sea breezes, pristine beaches, and seaside villages to explore? If so, a road trip from NYC to Maine is just what the doctor ordered. 

There are few places in the United States more beautiful than coastal Maine, and this picturesque state has been one of the most popular vacation spots on the east coast for over a hundred years. 

And there are plenty of opportunities to devour mouthwatering lobster rolls, stroll miles of sandy shorelines, and even spot a whale or two along the way!

If you’re ready to pack your bags and go on a road trip to Maine from NYC, let us do the planning for you! Follow our itinerary to help you find the best family-friendly attractions at every stop along the way. 

What Is The Distance From New York City To Bar Harbor

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The distance from New York City to Bar Harbor is about 487 miles, and it takes roughly eight and a half hours to drive there directly. You’ll follow I-95 for most of your route. 

While there are many beautiful towns to visit in Maine, we’ve built in a few other stops in New England along the way. After all, you can’t pass through cities like New Haven, Providence, and Boston without stopping to see the sights! 

If you want to drive straight through to Maine so you can spend more time in this beautiful state, consider taking several of Maine’s beautiful scenic byways along the coast. 

How Long Do I Need Driving New York City To Bar Harbor 

Your drive to Maine from NYC can take one day or several, and it all comes down to how much time you have to complete your road trip.  We suggest spending at least two days in Bar Harbor, which leaves several other days to stop and savor each small town’s unique opportunities. 

Overall, we recommend taking between three to five days to drive up the coast and another two to three days in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park so that you’re not feeling rushed. 

If you choose to take a scenic byway or two, you’re adding extra miles and time to your New England road trip. However, we think you’ll find it worth the extra hours! 

To help you plot out your journey to and from Maine from NYC, you may find this driving distance calculator helpful with estimated travel times:

Coastal Maine is best served warm, so we recommend that you plan your road trip anywhere from late spring to early summer. 

Many of Maine’s national and state parks are open year-round, but many tourist attractions are only available during the summer season. Plus, some areas don’t get plowed regularly during the winter, which can interfere with your travel plans. 

If you’re not much for crowds, we suggest going on your Maine road trip between May and mid-June or after Labor Day. Maine’s fall foliage is a sight to behold, so early fall is always a great option as well. 

Best Stops on a New York City to Maine Road Trip

First up on your journey to Maine from NYC is New Haven, a coastal New England city situated on Long Island Sound, Connecticut . There’s much to see and do here, so we suggest taking a full day before continuing on.

New Haven’s most significant claim to fame is Yale University, founded in 1701. As such, there are several unique visitor opportunities you won’t want to miss. 

Although not everyone can afford an Ivy League education, Yale’s museums are open and welcoming to the public. Yale University Art Gallery, built in 1832,  is the oldest university art museum in the United States. It has many fascinating exhibits from around the world.

If you have children, the perfect place to spend an hour or two is at the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History , where they can explore the Great Hall of Dinosaurs and other permanent attractions. 

If the weather is nice, take a stroll through The Green, New Haven’s 16-acre urban park in the city’s center. You can enjoy Music on the Green during the summer, a series of outdoor summer concerts. And you won’t want to skip out on authentic “tomato pies” and dessert at Frank Pepe Pizzaria Napoletana and Lucibello’s Italian Pastry Shop. Yum!

• Make it an overnight stay in New Haven ; families try a quad room at The Blake Hotel or with an RV/camper, try Totoket RV Park

Travel a couple more hours up I-95 to reach Providence, Rhode Island. We love this New England coastal town because it has plenty of family-friendly attractions without being too “touristy.” This self-proclaimed “Creative Capital” has a little something for everyone, so take a morning or afternoon to enjoy. 

If you have small children, you simply have to visit Roger Williams Park Zoo , one of the oldest zoos in the country. You can also spend an hour or two at the Providence Children’s Museum, where there are plenty of hands-on exhibits like a climbing maze, water tables, and more. 

Providence offers many outdoor activities as well, such as pedaling the 14-mile East Bay bike path. There are several different play areas and opportunities for ice cream, and it’s always nice to get out and enjoy the sun. Or you can visit India Point Park and let the kids loose in a large enclosed playground. So many choices!

• Extend your time in Rhode Island with one of these stunning scenic driving routes
• Make it an overnight stay in Providence – try Aloft Providence Downtown

An east coast road trip to Maine wouldn’t be complete unless you stopped in Boston, Massachusetts for at least a half-day. Boston is sandwiched almost equally distanced from Providence, RI, and Kittery, Maine. It takes less than an hour to drive there from Providence, which is an excellent way to break up your travel time. 

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Boston with kids, make sure to check out the Boston Museum of Science . It’s filled with engaging exhibits and activities for children of all ages. 

The Boston Children’s Museum is also a great place for your kids to run, play, and burn off some pent-up road trip energy. There’s even a play place for babies and toddlers, meaning you might be able to sit down for a few and catch a breather! 

Then there’s the New England Aquarium located right on Boston’s waterfront. You’ll marvel at the towering four-story central tank filled with all kinds of colorful marine life. And there are many fun and educational exhibits for your kids to enjoy, including a playful penguin pool!

You’ll definitely want to grab a bite to eat after all that exploring. We recommend kid-friendly restaurants like The Independent in Union Square (kids eat free from 4:30 – 6:30 pm Sunday – Thursday) or try State Street Provisions , a delicious option close to Boston’s aquarium. 

• If you want to extend your time in Massachusetts, skip the I-95 for a while and include the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway in your journey, check out these MA scenic drives routes and byways
• Stay a night or two in Boston , The Verb Hotel is a popular family choice, or check out many VRBO options which can make a great choice for families needing more space:

Cross over the bridge from Portsmouth, New Hampshire , to reach Kittery, your first official stop in Maine. Kittery is a charming seaside town founded in 1623, and there are many beautiful and historic locations to visit and explore.

Kittery has much to offer, so take at least a day to enjoy the sights before continuing your trip up the Maine coast. 

Kittery is well-known for its picturesque ferry boat tours of Portsmouth Harbor and the Piscataqua River. From there, you can observe the rugged beauty of Pepperrell Cove, Whaleback Light, and Kittery Point. Or you can bike, hike, or drive on the Memorial Bridge to explore Badger’s Island before moving on to Fort McClary and Seapoint Beach. 

Parents travelling with children will love spending a few hours at the Take Flight Aerial Adventure Park , which is guaranteed to help burn that built-up energy from riding in the car. Kids can choose from over 65 activities, and there’s even a zipline tour!

If shopping is more your style of adventure, take on the famous stores at Kittery Premium Outlets. They feature some of the best outlet stores in New England, and you’re sure to find a thing (or three) that you can’t live without.

Kittery has many fine restaurants, so savor a meal at Robert’s Maine Grill, Captain and Patty’s, or Chauncey Creek Lobster Pound (a local favorite). Once you’ve taken in all there is to see, rest your eyes at the historic York Harbor Inn in nearby York, a 10-minute drive from Kittery. 

• Stay the night in Kittery, York Harbor Inn in nearby York is perfect for history buffs, or right in town try the Ale House Inn

Your Maine coastal road trip wouldn’t be complete without stopping in Ogunquit, only a 20-minute drive from Kittery. Spend a day wandering Ogunquit’s beaches and beaches, enjoying theatre performances and more. 

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You don’t drive from NYC to Maine every day, so treat yourself to an afternoon of pampering at the Cliff House Resort , where they offer everything from massages to facials. Next, take advantage of the many photo opportunities along Marginal Way, a 2.5-mile paved path that provides several breathtaking views of the sea. 

Marginal Way also leads you to Perkins Cove, one of the many picturesque fishing villages along the Maine coast. You can easily spend an afternoon exploring the many shops, restaurants, and artisans.

A trip to Oqungquit wouldn’t be complete without a whale-watching tour with Finest Kind , or you can choose to soak up the sun at Ogunquit Beach, one of the top 25 beaches to visit in the U.S. Build sandcastles in the pristine sand, splash in the cool waves, or take a stroll along the shoreline. 

If theatre is your passion, you won’t want to miss The Ogunquit Playhouse , a seasonal summer theatre program. Finally, spend an hour or two exploring the Ogunquit Museum of American Art, a breathtaking structure overlooking the sea and filled with richly varied representations of Maine’s history. 

• Make it an overnight stay in Ogunquit , try Sea Chambers for an incredible coastal experience overlooking the water or Norseman Resort on the Beach .

After leaving Ogunquit, you should the next stop on your Maine coastal road trip should be to take in the wonders of Kennebunkport. It’s a true Maine treasure, and this storybook town is also the summer retreat of the Bush family. 

If you’re planning on spending the night, book a stay at one of the Captain’s Collection in the historic Dock Square area. These luxurious, resort-style hotels were once the homes of captains who lived in the area. 

Spend a few hours exploring Dock Square, the hub of Kennebunkport. Here you’ll find one-of-a-kind boutiques and artisan shops and well-known eateries like the Clam Shack, Old Vines Wine Bar, and Striper’s (a Bush family favorite). You’re sure to find a few treasures and souvenirs along the way. 

History buffs won’t want to miss out on the First Family exhibit at White Columns at 8 Maine Street before admiring the impressive sea captains’ mansions along Summer Street. The Brick Store Museum and Nott House are also popular with visitors. Finally, stop in at the Seashore Trolley Museum if you’re traveling with children. They’ll love it! 

Boat tours are available all along the coast near Kennebunkport, so marvel at the ocean’s wonders with a whale watching tour! Or you can choose your own adventure by renting a kayak, canoe, or bike from any one of several locations in town. Photo opps include Goat Island Lighthouse, Goose Rocks Beach, and Cape Porpoise, and you can also fish for stripers on Colony Beach.  

• Check out all accommodation options in Kennebunkport

Drive another 35 minutes up I-95 to reach Portland, Maine’s largest city and arguably one of the best Maine coastal towns to explore. It’s the perfect place to spend a few days on the way from New York City to Maine.

This unique coastal city has it all, from oceanside strolls to famous restaurants. There’s a little something for everyone, and no one will leave disappointed. 

Spend the morning or afternoon in the Old Port district browsing crafts from local artisans and one-of-a-kind boutiques. You’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time as you walk down the cobblestone streets and past the stately architecture straight out of the early 20th century.

Despite the historic sites, downtown Portland has a very modern feel. Commercial Street is also one of the last remaining working waterfronts in the United States, so savor freshly caught seafood at several of Portland’s seaside restaurants. 

Seafaring activities abound in Portland and nearby Cape Elizabeth, where you can visit nearby islands via Casco Bay Ferry Lines or tour the area lighthouses. Children will love exploring Fort Williams Park to see the Portland Headlight, one of the most iconic lighthouses in Maine. 

If you’re visiting in the summer, make sure to get an ice-cold gelato from Gorgeous Gelato before moving on with your Maine road trip. 

• Check out all accommodation options in Portland, Maine

Next on your New England road trip is Freeport, a popular Maine tourist destination. We recommend spending at least a half-day in Freeport. There are multiple opportunities to enjoy delicious seafood, shop, and sightsee in this historic coastal town. 

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of Freeport, be sure to take a Red Cloak Tour , where you can choose from a variety of topics that best fit your interests.

Families will also enjoy the Maine Maritime Museum on the Kennebunkport River. A range of exciting exhibits, lighthouse cruises, and a kids’ pirate play ship make this a treat for all ages. 

A trip to Freeport wouldn’t be complete without ice cream or L.L. Bean. Stop in for a frosty treat at Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, and then head over to L.L. Bean’s massive flagship store to admire the many displays and outdoor gear. If hiking shoes aren’t your thing,

Freeport also has many boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries. Finally, sit down to a fantastic meal at Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster Co ., a family-owned favorite with the freshest lobster rolls in Maine!

•   Check out all accommodation options in Freeport, Maine
• You can continue to take the coastal Highway 1 from Freeport to Maine if you want a scenic drive, or our itinerary skips you straight to Bar Harbor the quickest way on the I-95 (otherwise its a long drive day with kids!) With a couple of days extra to spare in your itinerary, you can stop in at Boothbay Harbor and Rockport in West Penobscot Bay more beautiful scenery.

We’ve finally arrived at our NYC to Maine road trip destination, and it couldn’t possibly be more beautiful. Bar Harbor is commonly called the gateway to Acadia National Park , and it has been one of America’s most popular summer vacation spots for over a century.

We recommend taking at least three to four days to take full advantage of everything Bar Harbor and Acadia have to offer. 

Summer remains the best time of year to visit Bar Harbor, where you can hike the trails, relax on the seashore with a good book, or go whale watching along the coast. Stay at one of the town’s many historic bed and breakfasts, or you can rent a cottage in Acadia National Park.

Like Freeport, Bar Harbor also offers five unique Red Cloak walking tours for everyone in the family. If your interests lean towards the paranormal, go on a Bar Harbor Ghost Tour before winding down at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf. There’s always something to see, do, and eat in Bar Harbor, and it’s the perfect way to conclude your East Coast road trip to Maine. 

Accommodation in Bar Habor

There are endless accommodations to suit any family size or preference, and they’re all equally exciting experiences. All will book out early in peak tourism season over the summer. BOOK EARLY!

To help you plan, we’ve included here a guide to both hotels and VRBO rental properties in the area where you can easily check availability for your travel dates.

Visiting Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is simply put one of the most stunning destinations on the US East Coast, and no surprise, one of the most visited national parks in the country.

As well as stunning scenery, the park offers a range of activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, and kayaking. There is an extensive network of hiking trails to explore, and educational programs and ranger-led activities teach kids about the park’s ecology, geology, and history.

Our complete guide to Acadia National Park with kids is coming soon!

Quick Facts to Be Aware Of Planning A Visit to Acadia National Park

• There is a $35 per vehicle entry fee to the National park, valid for 7 days
• In the peak summer months there are timed entry permits required to enter Cadillac Summit Road (May 24 through October 22, 2023)
• Camping within the park is only possible in summer and should be reserved in advance (2 months out) with recreation.gov
• Download the National Parks Service app before you hit the park. As reception is limited in the park, be sure to “save for offline use” ( App Store | Google Play )
• Learn more about East Coast National Parks – including which are free and what seasons are best to visit!
• Depending on when you plan your road trip from NYC to Maine, you could arrive right in the middle of blackfly season (Mother’s Day to Father’s Day). These biting flies are no fun, so bring plenty of bug spray. Locals recommend Avon Skin So Soft , as it’s more effective than other brands. 
• If you want to see some spectacular fall foliage, we suggest making your New England road trip between late September and early October. 
• Maine is filled with walking, biking, and ATV trails, so bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes!
• If you want to leave the interstate behind and take a more scenic route up Maine’s coast , take Route 1 from Freeport. 
• If you want to get the most out of your NYC to Maine road trip, take at least ten days to travel to Bar Harbor. This way, you’re not rushed, and you get to savor every experience just a little more! 
• Setting out from Boston? We also have this detailed guide for all the family-friendly stops you can make on a Boston to Bar Harbor Maine coast road trip , covering a little more of New England.
• Tune into newengland511.org for road conditions before setting out. We also like the travel planning app Waze for picking up on live traffic conditions.
• Last but not least, relieve the stress of forgetting essential items at home with our Ultimate Family Road Trip checklist ! 

© Family Road Trip

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New York to Acadia National Park Road Trip Itinerary

Plan your New York to Acadia National Park road trip with our itinerary. Explore scenic routes, quaint towns, and must-visit stops from NYC to Bar Harbor. Perfect guide for travelers!

New York to Bar Harbor/Arcadia National Park Road Trip Itinerary -

You will find a whole lot of quaint Americana as you venture to New England on a drive to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor in Maine!

From the bright lights of New York City and central park to the vast natural beauty that is Acadia National Park.

How Long is the drive from New York to Acadia National Park?

If driving the fastest route (via I-95 S) you will cover 495 miles and this will take you approximately 8 hours without stops!

Of course the amazing number of places to stop enroute are the best part of any road trip!

Interactive Road Trip Map (New York to Acadia National Park):

Dive into our Interactive map below!

I have highlighted all the notable spots from the four different driving routes (Full details in the next section!)

User guide:  Use the +/- buttons to zoom in and out of the attractions.

Top Tip : Many visitors choose to share the post on Facebook to inspire friends and help plan their road trip.

Hit the link below to share!

[social_warfare]

Best driving route between New York & Acadia National Park?

There is a variety of driving routes you can take on this route trip to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.

From the fastest routes, to city stop routes, Atlantic coast routes and even Mountain detours!

1. Fastest Driving Route

For the fastest driving route to B ar Harbor/Acadia National Park  head towards the  White Plain s north out of  New York city  along the  Hutchinson River parkway.

Then take the  Merritt Parkway  through  Connecticut.

Scenic Tip:

During the fall you will see some stunning foliage  as the seasons change & a you drive across the quaint bridges.

Merge with  Interstate 91 at Meriden  and hop on the  Interstate 84 east  which passes through the lush  Nipmuch State Forest  which heads into  Massachusetts.

Afterwards take the drive towards  Worcester  and onto  Interstate 495 , here you will arc around  Boston  and  AVOID ITS TRAFFIC ! Before merging on  Interstate 95  close to N ew Hampshire.

Portland Head Lighthouse 1

Drive through  Maine  and pass through  Portland  (a great place to stop) before driving down to  Bar Harbor at Bangor on U.S. Route 1A.

This is not the most scenic driving route, but it will get you there the fastest! Read more to see more scenic routes.

2. Scenic Coastal/Beach Route

If you don't mind adding a few extra hours onto to drive, then stick to the coast throughout the drive to Acadia National Park and you won't be disappointed!

Hop on U.S Highway 1 past some scenic Connecticut destinations from  Greenwich Point Park to the

17th-century Henry Whitfield State Museum  in  Guilford,  (the oldest stone house in New England!).

Other notable destinations include,  Mystic Connecticut , where you will pass through filming locations for the "Mystic Pizza" movie a 1988 classic.

mystic connecticuit road trip

Afterwards, hop on to Rhode Island Route 138 and drive over the Bridge to the island retreat of  Jamestown  and then into  Newport .

Drive the scenic detour along  U.S. Route 6  which will take you past  Cape Cod Bay  to the tip of  Provincetown  .

Loop around before merging back onto  Highway 1 via Boston .

There you will find plenty of beaches to stop at from  Hampton Beach in New Hampshire ,  Nubble Point  in  Maine  or the  Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge.

Hug the coastline as you drive through Brunswick, Camden and Belfast before driving to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.

3. City Stop off drive

A variation of route one will take you past a few tourist hot spots which you can break up over a couple of days.

Drive out of the  Bronx  on  I-95  and through the scenic  Greenwich  to Connecticut's coastal cities such as  Stamford, Bridgeport  and  New Haven.

Take a stop off at Rhode Island and try a walking tour of the historic 17th century area.

Greenwich, CT

Fun Fact:  The Hollywood icon Mel Gibson was Born in Greenwich. It is also home to many opulent Mansions including a former residence of president trump

As you drive towards  Boston , you can loop around it to avoid traffic or drive straight in and explore.

Highlights include;  the  USS Constitution Museum , the  New England Aquarium  and  Paul Revere's house . (Full Itinerary further below).

Afterwards drive towards  Portsmouth  and into  Maine .  Then onto  Bar Harbor  and  Acadia National Park .

How Long is this driving route?

This will take you around 9.5 hours without stops.

4. Scenic Mountain Loop

This road trip route to Acadia National Park is definitely one of the longest but offers the most breath taking mountain vistas!

Drive north on  I-95  and take  I-91  at  New Haven  toward  Hartford, Conn . Drive through Springfield, Mass and through the rural outback of Vermont.

Here you will be parallel the Connecticut River as you head through Brattlebro.

Turn onto  Interstate 93 & past the charming art town of St. Johnsbury , as you cross the border into New Hampshire.

Take  U.S. Route 302   as you drive through the wilderness of  White Mountain National Forest .

White Mountain National Forest. Source: getty

Tip: This is a great place to stop off for some hiking, fishing and even  cross country skiing !

Drive past the  Androscoggin River  along  U.S. Highway 2  into  Maine. Keep  heading east via  Augusta  and then take the coastal  Highway 1 route at Rockport toward Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park.

New York to Acadia National Park Road Trip Itinerary:

• New York City
• Boston , MA
• Portsmouth , NH - Offers great restaurants, easy parking and not expensive!
• Portland - Visit the  Portland Head Lighthouse
• Lobster Shack at the Two lights  - Food Stop off!
• Cape Elizabeth - Visit Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse
• Acadia National Park, Maine

Road Trip Highlights:

A. new york city.

I won't go into detail about NYC as its so immense, for more info check out:  Boston to New York City: New England Road Trip!

B. New Haven, CT:

New Haven, CT is definitely one of the most underrated cities in the USA and definitely in New England. The town has a great culture, history and even a thriving culinary scene!

New Haven Connecticut. Source: Getty Images

Yale University Tour:

I’m not asking you to enroll! But it’s definitely worth taking a tour of this iconic institute.

The third oldest university in the U.S.A. It was established in 1701 and is a hub of great history, art and architecture.

Free Tours!

Yale offers two free tours of the university grounds. Either a self guided walking tour where you can follow an audio guide, which can be downloaded  here .

Or take an 80-minute, student-led tour, which is offered twice daily on weekdays and once each afternoon on Saturdays and Sundays.

yale-university-1604159_640

Rope Adventure Park

Adventurers should try out the LARGEST  rope adventure park in the world ! This is a great place for families and adrenaline junkies it includes a pleathora of zip lines, rope birdges, and climbing walls.

East Rock Park

Check out the epic views of New Haven from East Rock Park. You can drive right up to the summit and take in the breath taking scenery. This is especially beautiful during the fall.

Museums of New Haven

Yale University operates three major Museums:

Peabody Museum of Natural History   Which includes, the Great Hall of Dinosaurs, Egyptian antiquities and a hands-on Discovery Room. This place is great for families.

Insider Tip:

Thursday afternoons when admission is by pay-as-you-wish donation

For Art buffs, check out   Yale University Art Gallery , this museum has a series of collections from small works of art to over 200,000 objects! Just opposite check out the largest collection of British art work outside the U.K and the  Yale Center for British Art .

Where to eat? Pizza wars!

In 1925, an Italian immigrant named Frank Pepe created New Haven’s signature style of pizza, with the thin-crust, coal oven–baked tomato pie topped sprinkled with grated cheese.  Since then his pizzeria is still going strong  Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana  in New Havens, Wooster Square Italian neighborhood.

You should also try their rival  Sally’s Apizza , founded in 1938,  this pizzeria was owned by the same family for nearly 80 years!

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana

C. Boston, MA:

Boston is the vibrant capital of Massachusetts and although small it packs a big punch! If your here for just one day I suggest starting early and making the most of it!

1. Tour of the City!

Starting early, the best way to way to explore the city is by taking a door! The most popular has to be the “Freedom Trail” walking tour.

The Freedom Trail connects 15 sites of great significance in the Colonial history of the United States. The route marked with a series of painted bricks on a series of sidewalks between Boston Common to Bunker Hill Monument in Charlestown.

There are a variety of interesting stops along the way from churches and notable landmarks to signage explained interesting information and even naval warships and graveyards!

Boston Road Trip

How to book a Freedom Trail Tour?

The National Park service has a visitors center located on the first floor of  Faneuil Hall. From here you can sign up for tours, and also get your hands on some free maps of the freedom trail.

Cost of the Freedom Trail:

In general most of the sites along the Freedom trail are free, with some having a place for donations.

Due to the Freedom Trail been ran by the City of Boston’s Freedom Trail Commission which is supported in part by grants from various nonprofits and foundations including the Boston National Historical Park.

Beyond My Ken | Wikimedia Commons

2. Copley Square

Copley Square is a cultural hub, here you can find a mixture of breath taking architecture, nature and landmarks. Take a walk past the Infamous  Boston Marathon Finish line   and check out  Boston public library  a place with astonishing decor inside.

Round the square you will also find a variety of shops & eateries.

3. Newbury Street

Getting hungry? Head down the famous  Newbury Street, where you will discover a pleathora of trendy restaurants, cafes and shops.  For a sweet treat, check out

Georgetown Cupcakes  or for a “pick me up” coffee try out  Trident Café . Afterwards take a stroll around Newbury Streets many quirky boutique shops. This is the perfect place to find a souvenir or gift for loved ones.

Sharon Hahn Darlin | Wikimedia Commons

4. Quincy Market Food Hall

Head to one of Bostons most famous food halls such as  Quincy Market,  which houses nearly 40 gourmet food vendors. Just 10 mins walk from there is Faneuil Hall, in Bostons little Italy district.

This was included in our:  Ultimate Foodie Road Trip: East Coast Maps!

For our Full Boston 1 Day Itinerary, check out:  Boston to New York City: New England Road Trip!

D. Portsmouth, NH

Portsmouth, New Hampshire is an historic harbor city known for its waterfront scenery, great food, atmosphere and even tax free shopping!

Here are my three favourite things about Portsmouth:

Portsmouth harbor.

Portsmouth is perched in a ideal location overlooking the mouth of the stunning  Piscataqua River,  which divides  New Hampshire & Maine.

Take a stroll along the  Portsmouth Harbor Trail , which covers over 70 historic sites and gives you a real insight into the local culture.

You can also take guided tours of this trail or even hop on board one of the daily  Portsmouth Harbor Cruises , which offer narrated tours about the local wildlife, folklore, and history of the waterways.

Carol M Highsmith - Library of Congress | Wikimedia Commons

Tax FREE Shopping!

Head to Downtown Portsmouth where you will find a plethora of charming boutiques & local shops. Take a stroll down Congress Street and the little side street where you will find everything from art & clothing to antiques and jewellery.

Market Square in central downtown offers many local walking tours. Explore the 17th century buildings and check out  Tugboat Alley  which offers many traditional nautical gifts and collectables.

The  Book and Bar  is the Old Custom House, which now offers a relaxed, no-tech atmosphere with a wide selection of used books and a cafe.  Oh and did i mention...No sales tax!

Incredible Local foods!

From Casual treats to fine dining Portsmouth has alot to offer. For the laid back foodie head to   Lexie’s Joint   which offers a  make-your-own burger option!

If you just want something quick for the road check out,  Friendly Toast . It is located on Congress Street & is a family-friendly restaurant which serves breakfast all day and a  selection of  mouth watering dishes and sandwiches to go.

For something a even more eastern, head to  Shio  a classic Japanese restaurant with great sushi.

E. Portland, ME

While in Portland you have to visit,  Portland Head Lighthouse  . It is the oldest lighthouse in Maine & was constructed in 1791. It stands at a height of 24m (78feet).

Insider Tip : You can find the light house station at the entrance of the primary shipping channel which flows into Portland Harbor.

Interesting Fact:

Two people died in a 1787 shipwreck which led to the introduction of the lighthouse which cost just  $700 to build at the time.

Things to do:

Apart from seeing the fantastic Portland head lighthouse, there are some fantastic landmarks to see nearby:

– Museum & Gift Shop

The museum is located in the former keepers’ house which was constructed in 1891. At the museum you can find the history of Portland Head light explored through artifacts, models and exhibits.

– Goddard Mansion

Goddard Mansion was build before the fort by the world renowned New York Architect Charles A. Alexander for a businessman John Goddard.

– Battery Keyes

Battery Keyes was one of the last two batteries built at the fort in 1906. It was designed to defend against small, fast attack boats in a point and shoot method.

– Beach Area

Located on the north side of the entrance road is a small rocky beach, Ship Cove, with a stunning view of Ram Island Ledge Light located in Casco Bay.

– Children’s Garden:

The Children’s Garden at  Fort Williams Park  is a landscape  1.5 acre garden  designed to let  children explore their relationship with nature.

Insider tip:

Head down for sunset  and you will get to see one of the most popular lighthouses to see in Maine, in all its glory! This is a great  photo  opportunity.

Fun Fact: Many say this is the most photographed lighthouse in america!

F. Cape Elizabeth, ME

After spending some time in Portland take the drive up to Cape Elizabeth Light (or two lights).

This lighthouse was built in 1828 and is located on Cape Elizabeth, at the southwestern entrance to Casco Bay in Maine.  The eastern tower is active while the western tower is deactivated

Here you will find great coastline and a beautiful lighthouse. However, you can’t access the lighthouse.

Grab some mouth watering lobster from  The Lobster Shack  just next door, here you will find tables overlooking the sea and some great seafood!

G. Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor offers breath taking coastal beauty in abundance! From lobster boats to Yachts, island views to ocean shimmers there are plenty of views to enjoy.

Take the shore path which winds all the way from town pier past the bay to the Atlantic Ocean and onto the Porcupine Islands. As the gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is a popular weekend retreat.

Bar Harbor maine. Source; Getty Images

Other Highlights at Bar Harbor:

• Sailing on the  Margaret Todd
• Taking a ride on a authentic Lobster Boat.
• Have a Coffee at  Choco Latte
• Devour some Blueberry Pancakes at  Cafe this way
• Book a Foodie Tour of the best spots!

H. Acadia National Park

Bar Harbor offers the perfect gateway to  Acadia National Park  a 47,000-acre coastal national park on Maines Desert island. From vast woodland to jagged beaches and glacier peaks such as Cadillac Mountain, the  HIGHEST POINT on USA's  east coast.

Cadillac Mountain also offers trails and picturesque views of Bar Harbor town.  At Acadia National Park you will find an spectrum of wildlife from moose to bears, birds and whales! Head to Sand Beach which offers a great place to relax.

Victoria Stauffenberg | Wikimedia Commons

Be sure to visit Jordan Pond, a scenic mountain lake with a great restaurant!

Where to stay in Bar Harbor?

For a full list of our recommended places to stay in Bar Harbor, follow the link  HERE .

Essential Road Trip Tips:

• Make sure you have all your  Travel Essentials
• Make sure you have all your  Travel Accessories
• Bring a  Great Travel Camera  to capture some scenic shots.
• Bring some High Quality Hiking boots: See Recommended  Hiking Gear
• Avoid gigantic $15,000 Medical Bills see:  Why you NEED Travel Insurance in 2020?
• Make sure your Car is serviced, with a spare tire or alternatively rent a fully reliable car.

How do you get the best car rental Deals?

Check out:  Ultimate Car Rental Travel Hacks!

For RV Rentals we always use:  RV Share

Bring your RV on a maine road trip!

Ultimate Maine Lighthouse Road Trip

Owls Head Lighthouse maine. source: pinterest

Boston to New York City: New England Road Trip!

Swan Boat Rides Boston Common

New York to Maine via Public Transport

Maple leaf express train usa niagara falls.

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Win a $500 Flight!

Embark on the adventure of a lifetime! Enter our Dream Journey Sweepstakes for a chance to win a $500 travel voucher, redeemable with any major US airline. Whether it's sandy beaches, bustling cities, or tranquil mountains, your dream destination is just an email away!*

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Road Trip from New York to Maine

Maine is a gem of the United States, filled with beautiful scenery, stunning small towns... and some truly great seafood. If you are looking for a fun weekend or week-long adventure, consider a road trip from New York to Maine. This short trip is filled with things to do, taking you through some of the prettiest towns and cities in America.

The 470-mile road trip from New York to Maine will take you at least 8 hours 30 minutes to drive, without breaks. Notable stops along the way include Stamford, New Haven, Hartford, Portland (Maine), and Acadia National Park.

If the sound of a road trip like these interests you, read on for more information about what route to take, where you should stay, and some of the best things to do along the way.

How far is Maine from New York and how long will the road trip take?

The road trip from New York to Maine will cover 470 miles and take you at least a day to drive. However, we think you should avoid rushing and give yourself at least two days, if not more, for this trip.

This route will take you from New York into beautiful Connecticut, through the forested state of Massachusetts, before taking you along the spectacular coastline of Maine to Acadia National Park.

Most of the driving takes place on a network of interstates, as you navigate out of the city towards quieter roads. Once you reach Portland, Maine, you turn onto Highway 1, which is going to be one of the best parts of this trip.

Traffic could be an issue on this route, as you pass through some densely populated areas. From New York to Hartford, you may encounter your heaviest traffic, so try to travel this first stretch of the journey outside of rush hour.

If you'd like to explore Maine further, check out our ultimate itinerary:

READ MORE - Ultimate Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Best road trip route from New York to Maine

A road trip from New York to Maine is a great length for a weekend or week-long trip. However, figuring out the best route and your ideal via points can be challenging. Read on for more information about the best route from New York to Maine.

Note: if you are visiting Acadia National Park and plan to drive on the Cadillac Summit Road, keep in mind that vehicle reservations might be required. Please check the national park's website to avoid any disappointment.

Road trip route from New York to Maine

Assuming that you begin your journey on Manhattan, you will need to take FDR drive north until you reach Randall's Island. Here, take I-278 north, through the Bronx, and out of New York City.

Merge onto I-95 taking you towards New Rochelle. Stay on I-95 as it leads you along Long Island Sound towards New Haven.

At New Haven you will join I-91 taking you away from the coast towards Hartford. In East Hartford, you will exit I-91 and merge with I-84.

Follow I- 84 up to Sturbridge, where you will join I-90. Follow I-90 to Auburn. At Auburn turn onto I-290, taking you towards Worcester and I-495.

You will stay on I-495 for a good distance, passing Lowell, Lawrence, and Haverhill. I-495 will take you back towards the coast, where you can then link up with I-95.

Follow the Interstate up to Portland. Here you want to get onto I-295 and then US Highway 1. Highway 1 will be the highlight of your time on the road, as it winds along the beautiful coastline of Maine.

You can follow US-1 along the coast to Ellsworth, where you can join Route 3 to take you to Acadia National Park, crossing Trenton Bridge just before you reach your destination.

Best places to stop between New York and Maine

If you are looking for a few places to stay on your road trip from New York to Maine, then this next section is here to help. Here are our top recommendations for some beautiful places to stay on your trip.

Be a student of culture in New Haven

Home to world-renowned Yale University, New Haven has a rightful claim as a cultural and intellectual center.

While New Haven is situated just an hour and a half north of New York City, this coastal city is still a great stop for an overnight stay. A tour of Yale University - as well as its museums and Art Gallery - is a must on any intellectual's bucket list, and the city is home to many outstanding restaurants, too.

As far as accommodation is concerned, The Study at Yale, in New Haven, oozes charm and sophistication. If you are looking for a relaxing place to stay on your road trip, look no further than The Study.

The Study is at the center of New Haven, making it a perfect place for you to enjoy everything on offer in this pretty city. As soon as you arrive at the hotel you will be impressed by its class and sophistication. The décor is classic, utilizing lots of leather and wood for a very scholarly feel, which fits the city perfectly.

An on-site bar gives you a place to relax and enjoy a drink after a long day of driving or sightseeing. The Heirloom restaurant is on-site and specializes in using local ingredients to make exceptional food.

Dine like a locavore in Portland, Maine

Famous for its exceptional seafood cuisine, Portland is an absolute no-brainer when it comes to choosing somewhere to stop over and enjoy an evening meal. The city is thought of by many as the best food town in New England: and that extends well beyond just shellfish.

Thanks to Portland's enviable position, right on the coast, it's no surprise that the cuisine is wholeheartedly "locavore" - i.e. focused on locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. Portland's creative foodie scene is second to none.

With this in mind, you'll want to make sure you stay as close to the waterfront as possible - poised to browse Portland's numerous vibrant restaurants and working seafaring industry.

The Portland Harbor Hotel combines upscale luxury with a decidedly maritime flair and waterfront location . Relax in the hotel's sumptuous surroundings, safe in the knowledge that you're only a few steps away from the action.

And the action isn't limited to eating and drinking: make the most of your time in Portland by visiting the Portland Museum of Art and taking a trip out on a boat tour in Casco Bay.

Where to stay when you reach Acadia National Park

Once you arrive in Acadia National Park, we'd recommend staying on Mount Desert Island itself so that you can completely relax and unwind in this unspoilt oceanfront spot.

Our top choice for a stay here is the Bar Harbor Inn and Spa, with its luxurious on-site spa and views of Frenchman Bay. As the highest-ranked hotel in the area, you simply can't go wrong with a stay here.

The hotel also has easily accessible, free parking on site, which is always an added bonus for a weary road tripper!

Places to see on your road trip from New York to Maine

On your road trip you want to make sure you plan time for sightseeing and activities. TO help you figure out where you might want to stop, we have listed some of the top attractions along this route. However, we encourage you to give yourself additional time to do your own exploring.

• Stamford - Just a short drive out of New York, this city has a great mixture of things to offer like breweries, theatres, and a pretty coastline nearby
• New Haven - New Haven is a trendy University city with lots of museums and very interesting, beautiful architecture
• Hartford - Continuing the theme of history, Hartford is home to the Mark Twain Museum and the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art
• Worcester - Like many of the cities on this route, Worcester is also home to an impressive range of attractions, from museums of art and natural sciences to breweries and restaurants
• Nubble Lighthouse - The first attraction in Maine, Nubble Point and its lighthouse are worth the short detour to get your first taste of the Maine coastline
• Portland Head - Another very photogenic lighthouse sits on Portland Head, nearby Crescent Beach State Park is also worth a visit.
• Portland - A very pretty city that we recommend spending a few days in. Make sure you stroll along the Old Port waterfront and visit the western promenade
• Camden Hills State Park - If you feel like getting active, and the weather is on your side, plan a hike in Camden Hills State Park
• Fort Knox - The lesser known of the two Fort Knox's. This one is an impressive structure that sits on the banks of the Penobscot River
• Acadia National Park - A beautiful park set along a rugged stretch of Maine's coastline, home to wildlife like bears, moose, and numerous seabirds
• Bar Harbor - A pretty little town that sits on the edge of Acadia National Park, a great place to stay while exploring the park and nearby coastline
• Sand Beach - Just down the road from Bar Harbor, this is a pretty beach on an even prettier stretch of coastline

Best time to go on a road trip from New York to Maine

Both New York and Maine can get very cold during winter. Unless you like the cold and are prepared for it, it probably isn't the best time for a road trip from New York to Maine. That being said if you don't mind the cold there is plenty to do indoors to keep you entertained on this trip - just make sure you bundle up with plenty of layers!

Winter will bring with it the cheapest hotel prices, and very low tourist numbers. If both of these things appeal, then winter might just be the season for you.

Be warned, however, that these northern states can get very cold and experience a lot of snow, in our opinion you are best off sticking to the shoulder seasons or summer.

If you don't like the cold but still want to travel in a quieter season, have a look at going in spring or fall. The shoulder seasons offer a great compromise between weather, tourist numbers, and hotel prices.

You may get unlucky and experience some unpleasant weather, but you may also have a beautiful fall or spring day to explore Maine. Fall is particularly nice as the deciduous trees set the forest ablaze with their crimson, yellow, and orange leaves.

If you enjoy a bit more peace and quiet, fall could definitely be a great time for you to go to Maine.

Summer is going to be the busiest time of year. Nice weather makes it easy to get outside and enjoy your road trip. However, it also brings lots of tourists and higher prices. It's a good idea to think about what your priorities are and then you can find a season that works for you.

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40 Best Stops Between Bar Harbor and New York City

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How long is the drive from Bar Harbor to New York City?

The direct drive from Bar Harbor to New York City is 496 mi (798 km) , and should have a drive time of 8 hrs 43 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Bar Harbor to New York City, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Boston , Portland , Ogunquit , Salem , Mystic , Providence , Hartford , New Haven , Camden , and Flushing , as well as top places to visit like Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and Portland Head Light, or the ever-popular Mount Battie Trail.

Top cities between Bar Harbor and New York City

Best stops along Bar Harbor to New York City drive

Mount battie trail.

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Portland head light.

Hooligans Steak and Ale

Marginal way, perkins cove rd, hampton beach state park, the house of the seven gables, salem witch museum, canobie lake park, freedom trl, public garden.

Fenway Park

Museum of Fine Arts, Boston

Gillette stadium, lizzie borden house (a bed and breakfast & museum), roger williams park zoo, martha's vineyard fast ferry, old sturbridge village, yankee candle, mystic aquarium, mystic seaport museum, six flags new england preferred parking, the mark twain house & museum, lake compounce amusement & water park, yale university art gallery, the maritime aquarium at norwalk, woodbury common premium outlets, new york botanical garden.

Top searches in New York City

Other popular road trips from bar harbor, explore nearby places.

• New York City
• Jersey City
• Fort Hancock
• Long Island City
• West New York
• North Bergen
• Jackson Heights
• Middle Village
• Cliffside Park
• East Elmhurst

All related maps of New York City

• Map of New York City
• Map of Brooklyn
• Map of Jersey City
• Map of Hoboken
• Map of Fort Hancock
• Map of Long Island City
• Map of Union City
• Map of Weehawken
• Map of Sunnyside
• Map of West New York
• Map of Maspeth
• Map of Guttenberg
• Map of North Bergen
• Map of Woodside
• Map of Secaucus
• Map of Astoria
• Map of Ridgewood
• Map of Bayonne
• Map of Elmhurst
• Map of Jackson Heights
• Map of Glendale
• Map of Fairview
• Map of Middle Village
• Map of Cliffside Park
• Map of Rego Park
• Map of East Elmhurst
• Map of Corona
• Map of Edgewater
• Map of Woodhaven
• Map of Kearny
• Map of Harrison

New York City throughout the year

• New York City in January
• New York City in February
• New York City in March
• New York City in April
• New York City in May
• New York City in June
• New York City in July
• New York City in August
• New York City in September
• New York City in October
• New York City in November
• New York City in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in New York City?

Get inspired for your trip to New York City with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day New York City Itinerary
• 2-Day New York City Itinerary
• 3-Day New York City Itinerary
• 4-Day New York City Itinerary
• 5-Day New York City Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from bar harbor to new york city.

Yes! You can drive from Bar Harbor to New York City.

How far is New York City from Bar Harbor by car?

The drive from Bar Harbor to New York City is 496 miles (798 km).

How long does it take to drive from Bar Harbor to New York City?

Driving from Bar Harbor to New York City should take you 8 hrs 43 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Bar Harbor to New York City?

Gas from Bar Harbor to New York City would cost around $43 to $101 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Bar Harbor to New York City?

You could check out Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and Portland Head Light, or the always popular Mount Battie Trail!

What are the best cities to visit between Bar Harbor and New York City?

People love visiting Boston, Portland, and Ogunquit, among others.

What's the weather like in Bar Harbor?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Bar Harbor in January
• Weather in Bar Harbor in February
• Weather in Bar Harbor in March
• Weather in Bar Harbor in April
• Weather in Bar Harbor in May
• Weather in Bar Harbor in June
• Weather in Bar Harbor in July
• Weather in Bar Harbor in August
• Weather in Bar Harbor in September
• Weather in Bar Harbor in October
• Weather in Bar Harbor in November
• Weather in Bar Harbor in December

What are some other road trips from Bar Harbor?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Bar Harbor.

• Bar Harbor to New York City drive
• Bar Harbor to Boston drive
• Bar Harbor to Washington DC drive
• Bar Harbor to Montreal drive
• Bar Harbor to Orlando drive
• Bar Harbor to Toronto drive
• Bar Harbor to Quebec City drive
• Bar Harbor to Chicago drive
• Bar Harbor to Philadelphia drive
• Bar Harbor to Niagara Falls drive
• Bar Harbor to New Orleans drive
• Bar Harbor to Baltimore drive
• Bar Harbor to Nashville drive
• Bar Harbor to Ottawa drive
• Bar Harbor to Newport drive
• Bar Harbor to Portland drive
• Bar Harbor to Atlanta drive
• Bar Harbor to Gatlinburg drive
• Bar Harbor to Savannah drive
• Bar Harbor to Halifax drive
• Bar Harbor to Ogunquit drive
• Bar Harbor to St. Augustine drive
• Bar Harbor to Charleston drive
• Bar Harbor to Conway drive
• Bar Harbor to Williamsburg drive
• Bar Harbor to Cleveland drive
• Bar Harbor to Pittsburgh drive
• Bar Harbor to Miami Beach drive
• Bar Harbor to Branson drive
• Bar Harbor to Memphis drive

• Itinerary + map in one view
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• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

The ultimate road trip from New York to Maine

• Post last modified: March 14, 2024

Magnificently trace the New England coastline from New York to Maine. It’s a spectacular journey with cute seaside towns, dutiful lighthouses and jaw-dropping vistas. As you drive from New York to Maine, there’s certainly a lot to write home about.

Disclosure: All listings are independently selected. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more ›

Route from New York to Maine

• Start: New York City
• Finish: Acadia NP
• Total distance:  592 mi / 953 km
• Total driving time:  12.5 h

1. New York City, NY

The road trip from New York to Maine stunningly takes you up along New England’s coastline. But there’s also a never ending selection of iconic New York City attractions to enjoy before you take off.

Stroll through Central Park

You sweet little oasis in the heart of New York City. Manhattan’s Central Park has since its first opening in 1858 provided a peaceful domain in the otherwise busy city.

In summer it’s a great spot to soak up the sun. In winter the park offers a unique venue for ice skating. Around the year Central Park is the perfect spot for a quiet stroll.

Take a photo from Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge famously spans East River between Manhattan and Brooklyn. The symbolic bridge, one of 21 that connect Manhattan with the rest of the city, invites visitors to a celebrated perspective.

From Brooklyn Bridge you not only get a close-up view of a fascinating construction. The bridge also gives you an unmatched view of New York City’s skyline.

The New York to Maine road trip is full of awe-inspiring photo opportunities. But when it comes to skylines, the New York City skyline is certainly a hard one to beat.

Additional stop: Mystic in Connecticut is a pleasant early addition to the itinerary. In the town, which is located right on the way from New York City to Newport, you find a cozy waterfront area and the extensive Mystic Seaport Museum .

2. Newport, RI

• Driving distance:  180 mi / 290 km
• Driving time: 4 h

It’s just a few hours into the New York to Maine road trip, but New England’s charm is already evident. Newport is a seaside Rhode Island city home to alluring mansions.

Learn a mansion story

Newport’s signature mansions were built between the 1850s and early 1900s. The historic structures demonstrate a wide range of architectural styles.

Such progressive facades make you impressed. However, it’s when you go inside the Newport mansions that they really come to life.

On a guided mansion tour you indulge in colorful stories of previous times and owners. It’s an activity for the history buff or anyone who likes a good story.

So which Newport mansion tour should you include on the road trip from New York to Maine? The Breakers, The Elms and Marble House are constantly ranked as top Newport mansions to visit.

Stretch your legs on Newport Cliff Walk

A stone’s throw from the enchanting mansions you find Newport Cliff Walk. The salty pathway gorgeously extends for 3.5 miles (6 km) along Newport’s coastline.

With both Atlantic views and lovely homes to rest your eyes on the Newport Cliff Walk is a celebrated attraction. Some of the best things on the road trip from New York to Maine are free, and Newport’s cliff walk is one of them.

More info: Best hotels in Newport, RI

3. Cape Cod, MA

• Driving distance:  76 mi / 122 km
• Driving time:  1.5 h

Cape Cod is a slight detour on the New York City to Maine road trip itinerary. Yet if you want to capture the most beautiful spots along New England’s coastline, the Cape is a must to include.

Take advantage of Cape Cod National Seashore

Cape Cod is blessed with mile after mile of unspoiled shoreline. The area of the peninsula that best showcases its untouchedness is Cape Cod National Seashore .

Cape Cod National Seashore is 43,607 acres big. Within the huge seashore you find everything from deer to turtles.

It’s a paradise for hikers, bikers and beachgoers alike. In summer its beaches peaks, but year round Cape Cod National Seashore makes up a superb New York to Maine road trip stop.

Catch the ferry to Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is its own little peaceful bubble. Located off Cape Cod, just 35 minutes by ferry away, it’s an easy addition to the NYC to Maine itinerary.

The island is home to six Martha’s Vineyard towns to get to know. These are: Oak Bluffs, Edgartown, Vineyard Haven, West Tisbury, Chilmark and Aquinnah.

Oak Bluffs is famous for its colorful gingerbread cottages, while Edgartown radiates elegancy like no other place. Every town on the island offers that sought-after vacation ambience. 

More info: Best areas on Cape Cod

4. Boston, MA

• Driving distance:  71 mi / 114 km

On the way from New York to Maine, the streets of Boston draw your attention. Massachusetts ‘ biggest city is just filled with history to explore.

Walk back in time on the Freedom Trail

In the heart of Boston the 2.5 miles (4 km) long Freedom Trail takes you back in time. The trail, which starts at Boston Common and ends at Bunker Hill Monument, shows you one historic monument after another.

Highlights as you walk the Freedom Trail on the road trip from New York to Maine include Massachusetts State House and Old State House. Another outstanding building to keep your eyes open for is the Old Corner Bookstore.

Hear Harvard tales

Boston’s Harvard University is one of the most reputable institutions of higher learning in the US. Its alumni includes former presidents and Nobel Prize winners.

So wouldn’t it be nice to enter the doors of Harvard on the New York to Maine road trip, if so only for a few hours?

On a guided Harvard University tour that’s exactly what you get to do.

Not only are the grounds interesting to see, but there are also many amusing tales to be told. You don’t have to be into history to appreciate a Harvard tour.

More info: Where to stay in Boston

Additional stop: Especially in summer it’s nice to have a beach stop between New York and Maine. New Hampshire’s appreciated Hampton Beach State Park delivers just that. It’s a pristine beach that just adds minutes to the New York City to Maine road trip itinerary.

5. Portland, ME

• Driving distance:  112 mi / 180 km
• Driving time:  2 h

Portland welcomes you to Maine in fine style. Maine is well known for its many lighthouses, and Portland certainly sets the lighthouse standard high.

View Portland’s lighthouses

No road trip from New York to Maine is complete without a stop at Portland Head Lighthouse . It’s the lighthouse that’s known as Maine’s most photographed such.

Positioned on majestic cliffs Portland Head Light is the definition of a photo opportunity.

But as you visit Portland Head Lighthouse, don’t miss out on the surrounding lighthouses. From the Portland Head Lighthouse area you can spot as many as 4 more lighthouses.

Breathe in the Old Port

Overlooking the Fore River the Old Port in Portland is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The area characterized by its cobblestone streets, brick buildings and fishing piers has a rich past as a leading Maine port.

Today the Old Port is a place where history meets shopping and dining. Portland’s Old Port neighborhood is dotted with popular stores, tasty restaurants and refreshing drinks.

Still you don’t need to spend any money in the Old Port to have a good time. Just walking around in the district, where history and contemporary features intersect, is as rewarding.

Additional stop: Why not throw a legendary never-closing store into the mix of fun stops on the NYC to Maine road trip? The L.L. Bean Flagship store in Freeport is widely known for its large selection of products. But even if you’re not up for a shopping, its gigantic storefront boots make up a quirky stop.

6. Camden, ME

• Driving distance:  81 mi / 130 km

Welcome to Camden , a heartwarming town sandwiched in between the mountains and Penobscot Bay.

Climb Camden Hills

Camden Hills functions as Camden’s soothing backdrop. As part of Camden Hills State Park the green hills flourish like they always have.

The tallest component of Camden Hills is Mount Battie. Its peak shoots up 780 feet (238 m) above the ocean.

From Mount Battie’s heights the views of Penobscot Bay and Camden are awe-inspiring. The sight is an undeniable highlight on the New York to Maine road trip.

But how do you get to Mount Battie’s remarkable overlooks? A popular 0.5 miles (0.8 km) long trail takes you from the streets of Camden to its top. However, a paved road also lets you travel up the slopes of Mount Battie by car.

7. Acadia National Park, ME

• Driving distance:  72 mi / 116 km

Acadia National Park is the northernmost and final stop on the itinerary. In New England’s only national park the mountains spectacularly meet the Atlantic Ocean.

Drive Acadia’s loop road

Acadia’s loop road is often referred to as one of the most scenic drives in America. When you visit on the NYC to Maine road trip, it’s easy to see why.

The bucket list drive takes you around the eastern half of Mount Desert Island. Highlights include spots such as Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Point and Jordan Point.

At its end Cadillac Mountain makes up a jaw-dropping vista. From its 1,530 feet (466 m) high top, which makes it the tallest point along the entire Atlantic coastline, you have an undisturbed view of the wild surroundings.

Tour western Mount Desert Island

Mount Desert Island’s western portion invites you to an experience off the beaten path. This Acadia part is quieter, and gets fewer visitors, than the island’s eastern half.

But quietness is far from western Mount Desert Island’s only ace in the sleeve. The area is home to scenic spots including Echo Lake and Long Pond.

In addition Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is positioned at its southernmost point. Built in 1858 it’s a manmade attraction that beautifully complements the awe-inspiring nature in Acadia National Park.

Where to stay

Bar Harbor is to most visitors the best place to stay at Acadia National Park . The gateway town offers easy park access and the amenities you crave for.

• Bar Villager Motel – In Bar Harbor’s heart.
• BW Acadia Park Inn – Away from the crowds.

NYC to Maine road trip FAQ

This one-way road trip from New York to Maine and Acadia National Park is 592 mi (953 km) long. Driving it takes roughly 12.5 hours, not including any stops along the way to Acadia.

The main stops included on the New York to Maine road trip are New York City, Newport, Cape Cod, Boston, Portland, Camden and Acadia National Park. Additional destinations along the route include Mystic, Hampton Beach and Freeport.

For the ultimate experience, we recommend allowing 10 days or more for your New York to Maine road trip. However, make sure that you add time if you want to fit in one or several longer stays along the way.

Related guides

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The Best 10-Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary For An Amazing Trip

By Jessie Festa. This Maine coast itinerary includes affiliate links to trusted partners!

Do you need help planning a coastal Maine road trip itinerary ?

Then you’re in the right place!

Located in the New England region of the United States, Maine is the country’s easternmost state and borders Canada to the north.

Its cooler climate and coastal location are what allow visitors to enjoy many of the things Maine is most known for: delicious seafood, juicy blueberries, beautiful beaches, rocky coastline, and stunning landscapes that offer some of the world’s best hiking and outdoor activities.

There is a lot to enjoy on a Maine road trip, though with so many options, it can be hard to narrow down what to actually add to your itinerary.

Luckily, I’ve done the hard work for you, and you’ll find a road trip through Maine mapped out below — complete with recommendations for where to go, what to do, where to eat, and tips for having the best trip possible.

This itinerary is based on a summer road trip I did with my husband Andy, though solo travelers, families, and friend groups can also enjoy the below suggestions.

To help you have the best Maine road trip possible; one complete with incredible memories you’ll truly never forget!

Renting a car for coastal Maine road trip?  Check out  Discover Cars  to quickly compare your rental options. Their comparison tool does the homework for you, so there’s no need to have up 10+ tabs trying to figure out which company is the most affordable. Actually, you can save up to 70% by using their tool! There are also a number of fun guided Maine tours to add to your itinerary, like an Old Port Culinary Walking Tour from Portland or an eBike Tour of Acadia National Park’s Carriage Roads from Bar Harbor .

Psst, don’t forget to pin this Maine itinerary for later!

Simply add the map to your phone to have it ready to go for your trip.

Bonus: The kit comes with 40+ other travel resources — from printables to quizzes to itineraries — all meant to help you explore the world beyond the guidebook!

On that note, let’s go over how to have the absolute best road trip in Maine.

10-Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary (Quick Facts)

To help you save time, here is a quick overview of the Maine coast vacation itinerary detailed below.

Maine car rental: Use DiscoverCars to compare prices across various car rental companies. This can really help you save money when traveling to Maine or heading out on a road trip .

Maine travel insurance: I use and recommend SafetyWing , which offers budget-friendly yet robust coverage.

Road trip planning tool: Wondering how to plan a trip to Maine? Check out Roadtrippers Plus , which helps you plan your route, estimate gas costs, book hotels and tours, create maps, and more. Use code “BTR5QTP” for $5 off!

Stop #1: Portland (2 nights)

• Stay: This historic hot tub-equipped Airbnb or at a hotel in downtown Portland – like the Black Elephant Hostel (which has private rooms) or The Docent’s Collection .
• Eat: Bite Into Maine (amazing lobster rolls), Blyth & Burrows (cocktails & bites), Central Provisions (unique seasonal menu), Holy Donut (made-from-scratch potato donuts).
• Do: Bike the lighthouses as a DIY adventure or book this tour , walk the many scenic neighborhoods, visit beautiful beaches (like Old Orchard Beach), and do a beer tour .
• Tours: Click here for a full list of tours in Portland, Maine .

Stop #2: Bar Harbor (3 nights)

• Stay: We stayed at the Acadia Pines Motel based solely on the price, and wouldn’t necessarily recommend it. It was fine for what we needed, though if I did it again I’d probably choose the reasonably-priced Little Fig Hotel , which also has a better location right in Bar Harbor’s walkable village.
• Eat: 2 Cats Restaurant (made-from-scratch breakfast), Terrace Grille (delicious lunch on the water), Merchant & Frye (farm-to-fork eatery), and Geddy’s (fresh local lobster).
• Do: Hike in Acadia National Park, wander the walkable village and its coastal Shore Path, and go on a tour with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co .
• Tours: Click here for a full list of tours in Bar Harbor, Maine .

Route 1 Maine Road Trip Map

When it comes to Maine driving trips along the coast, many people like to take Route 1 since it’s smooth, scenic, and parallels the Maine coast.

To help you save time, you can click here for a Google Map for your Route 1 Maine road trip itinerary with the above-mentioned destinations pre-plotted.

10-Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary (In-Depth Plan)

Now let’s go over our best coastal road trip in Maine in-depth.

In this section, I’ll detail a number of recommendations in each stop based on my own unforgettable 10 day Maine itinerary — so that you can steal them for your own travels.

Of course, this list of ideas for a road trip through coastal Maine is not exhaustive. If you have your own suggestions, please share them in the comments below!

Maine Road Trip Stop #1: Portland (2 Nights)

One stop you should definitely add to your Maine trip is Portland, a hip city with a rich history.

Originally called “Machigonne” (great neck) by the Native American Algonquians, the area was later named after the English Isle of Portland.

According to Britannica , it changed names a few more times before eventually becoming Portland again, and its history includes being a fishing and trading village, seeing many wars (and being destroyed and rebuilt many times), and playing a big part in the transportation industry.

Much of this history, and more, can be explored at Portland’s many museums.

Portland is actually Maine’s largest city, and today you’ll find loads of opportunities to discover great restaurants, bars, nightlife, tours, and cultural institutions.

Quite honestly, there is enough to do to warrant a longer stay in Portland; however, as this is only a 10-day Maine itinerary and we’ve got places to go, I’m keeping it at 2 nights. That being said, feel free to extend if you have the time!

Where To Stay In Portland

Airbnb with hot tub . During our road trip to Portland, Maine, we stayed in a charming Airbnb housed in a building that’s on the National Historic Registry. Known as the Leonard Bond Chapman House (circa 1868), the home is a classic Second-Empire Victorian, and once featured vast farmland and a successful nursery — though today you’ll find the land has amenities like a hot tub, pool, and relaxing lounge areas.

Hotel in Portland’s Old Port . If you’d prefer to be in the heart of the action, staying in the historic Old Port with its cobblestone streets and beautiful brick buildings is a smart idea. You’ll be within walking distance of loads of restaurants, bars, cafes, and boutiques — plus the waterfront is nearby if you’d like to enjoy a promenade walk, waterfront meal, or sunset cruise .

Things To Do In Portland, Maine

-Bike The Lighthouses

One fun activity to do along your coastal Maine road trip is to bike the lighthouses Portland is so well known for.

You can rent a bike from Lighthouse Bikes in South Portland, which offers rentals for $10 per hour or $35 per day, which also gets you a helmet, bike lock, and a map.

There are 5 lighthouses on the main route, though most people only do the first 4 — Bug Light , Spring Point Ledge , Ram Island Ledge , and Portland Head Lighthouse .

Liquid Riot . While they have a food menu, I’d recommend coming here just for drinks. They brew their own beer and distill their own alcohol — meaning the libations are delicious. Plus, the space is really cool with giant glass windows showing the behind-the-scenes of the operation, wine barrels as tables, and indoor-outdoor seating.

Drink recommendation: the “Wild Hearts” made with Liquid Riot Bonfire Spirit, mezcal, banana Cognac, lime, prickly pear, grapefruit, and spice.

Holy Donut . This beloved local donut shop is known for their made-from-scratch potato donuts that come in flavors like chocolate sea salt and blueberry lemon. My top pick: the vegan chocolate caramel coconut, which looks and tastes like a Samoa cookie!

Geddy’s Restaurant . No vacation on the Maine coastline would be complete without savoring some local lobster. This eatery in Bar Harbor Village is known for its fun nautical decor and fresh lobster caught right in the Maine waters out front. Pair a Lobster Bake — which comes with lobster, corn, and homemade blueberry pie — with a local Atlantic Brewery beer.

Merchant & Frye . This hip eatery in Bar Harbor Village serves up seasonally-inspired dishes that pair perfectly with their craft cocktails, local beers, and carefully curated wines in a stylish space with open kitchen, fun artwork like regal dog portraits, and classic diner tables and stools.

We loved the Maine mussels appetizer — served with seed crackers and aioli for a unique flavor. It’s also recommended to try the Crab Cacio & Pepe with thick rye pappardelle pasta and a generous helping of crab meat, and the 12-hour smoked brisket with marinated heirloom tomatoes.

Graffiti Donuts . This dessert cafe’s specialty is donut creations — including “Donut Nachos” featuring fresh-made cinnamon sugar donut holes, whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and rainbow sprinkles. Yum!

Terrace Grille . Here you can savor an amazing lunch with a front row view of the harbor. A few standout dishes include the fish tacos made with local Maine haddock, the shrimp and haddock grits, the lobster roll, and the homemade New England Clam Chowder in a bread bowl. Pair with a local Atlantic Brewing Co beer or their charitable cocktail of the day (it was “Bubbles For Books” when we visited).

Tours In Bar Harbor, Maine

Add one — or more — of the following Bar Harbor tours to really experience the best of coastal Maine:

• Private Holiday Professional Photo Shoot in Bar Harbor
• Narrated Bus Tour of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park
• Savor Bar Harbor Culinary Walking Tour
• A Walk Through Time in Bar Harbor (Celebrating 200+ Years!)

Click here for a full list of Bar Harbor tours .

Tips For Visiting Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor has free parking after 8pm. This is true even in the large main lots.

Book your trip in advance. While this goes for all of coastal Maine, Bar Harbor is particularly tricky when it comes to finding affordable lodging. Especially if visiting during the busy summer months, book your accommodation, tours, and transportation as far in advance as possible.

Plan your Cadillac Mountain visit in advance. When researching what to do in coastal Maine, visiting the iconic Cadillac Mountain — the highest point along the North Atlantic seaboard at 1,530 feet tall — will undoubtedly come up as a recommendation. The thing is, you need a permit to drive to the summit, which books up quickly. You can find full information on making a Cadillac Mountain reservation here .

Maine Road Trip Stop #3: Camden (2 Nights)

If you want to explore the best places to go on the coast of Maine, Camden should definitely be on your road trip itinerary, especially as many consider it to be one of the prettiest coastal Maine towns.

“Where the mountains meet the sea” is Camden’s motto, as it’s one of only two places on the Atlantic seaboard where inland hills roll right up to the harbor to kiss the water.

This makes for absolutely breathtaking scenery whether you’re hiking in the local Camden Hills State Park or wandering the charming waterfront village full of galleries, shops, restaurants, and breweries.

Actually, the Native American Penobscots, who originally inhabited present-day Camden , called it “Megunticook,” meaning “great swells of the sea” — which references the silhouette of the Camden Hills. Hopefully, you’ll have some bright days in Camden during your coastal Maine road trip, as this is when the visual is most apparent.

On that note, let’s go over how to have an amazing time in Camden on your road trip to Maine.

Where To Stay In Camden, Maine

High Tide Inn . We absolutely loved our stay at this bed & breakfast — which is only a 6-minute drive to the walkable village and a 3-minute drive to Camden Hills State Park.

Owned by two sisters, they offer cottages and motel units, many of which have ocean views.

Along with a delicious breakfast of hard-boiled eggs, fresh fruit, and homemade baked goods, you can enjoy sipping a glass of wine, seeing a sunrise, or stargazing on their beautiful lawn (with lawn chairs) or on their private beach.

Camden Deli . Not only does this deli have delicious sandwiches — including a number of yummy options for vegetarians — it has a back patio with waterfront views and a rooftop.

Sea Dog Brewing . Enjoy elevated pub fare like crab rangoon dip, creamy lobster bisque, or a veggie sweet potato burger on the back patio with waterfront views and pair with one of their many beers: wild blueberry ale, hazelnut porter, light-bodied wheat ale, hoppy IPA, and more!

Peter Ott’s On The Water . Treat yourself to a nice meal at this fancy restaurant on the water. Prices are reasonable for the level of service and the quality of the dishes — like the homemade lobster corn chowder, panko-crusted haddock, or my personal recommendation, lobster fettuccini. Order it and thank me later!

Tours In Camden, Maine

Camden is one of the best places to visit on the Maine coast, especially if you add some of the following tours to your itinerary:

• Windjammer Classic Sunset Sail
• Windjammer Classic Day Sail
• Wild Maine Blueberries Class
• Artisanal Cheeses of Maine Class

Click here for a full list of Camden tours .

Tips For Visiting Camden, Maine

Explore Camden early. Camden Village closes down early, with most shops closing around 5pm or 6pm and dinner restaurants closing around 8pm or 9pm. Many places — especially those on the water — will have a wait, so if you can get there before 6pm you’ll avoid having to wait for an hour.

Parking is cheap. Along with paid parking spots and lots that are typically $2 per hour, there are a few free lots — including one on Washington Street behind Camden Fire Department and one past the Camden Public Library on Atlantic Avenue.

Maine Road Trip Stop #4: Kennebunkport (2 Nights)

Sitting at the mouth of the Kennebunk River, right along the Atlantic coast, sits Kennebunkport — one of the Kennebunks, which consists of Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, and Arundel.

To the Native American Abenaki, Kennebunk meant “the long cut bank,” believed to reference Great Hill at the mouth of the Mousam River.

The place we call Kennebunkport today was named Cape Porpus by settlers in 1653, and then Arundel in 1717. In 1821, it was finally called Kennebunkport — a name derived from an Abenaki or Mi’kmaq word translating to “long sandbar,” according to Britannica .

Today, the hub of activity is in and around the Dock Square neighborhood of Kennebunkport. Here you’ll find a walkable village with local shops and eateries, waterfront restaurants, and activities like kayak and bike rentals.

That being said, there are numerous places to explore in and around Dock Square to enhance your Maine coastal road trip.

Where To Stay In Kennebunkport

Paris In Kennebunk (Airbnb). This cozy and comfortable Airbnb is located in nearby Kennebunk and is walkable to a number of yummy restaurants. There is also a backyard with a grill, fire pit, hot tub, and loads of seating options for relaxing under the stars with a glass of wine.

Whimsy . Here they sell whimsical home decor and gifts, like decorative lamp shades, hand-carved bird statues, and Maine-themed ornaments.

Minka . This boutique showcases sustainable and handmade apparel, accessories, and art.

Note that these are hardly your only options, so add exploring Dock Square for a few hours to your coastal Maine road trip itinerary!

-Relax on the beach

The best Maine road trips always include time in the sand. Luckily, There are many local beaches in Kennebunkport and Kennebunk, like Kennebunk Beach , Mothers Beach , and Parsons Beach .

Probably the most popular — and the one you’ll see in many Maine tourism ads — is Gooch Beach , which features an expansive stretch of sand with swimmable waters, waves for surfing, and views of lovely local homes.

This is one of the best places to visit along the Maine coast. Plus, if you book the above-mentioned Airbnb, a beach parking pass is included with your stay!

Tours In Kennebunkport / Kennebunk

No road trip along the Maine coast would be complete without visiting Kennebunkport. Elevate your itinerary by booking some of the following tours:

• Luxury Catamaran Sailing Charters in Maine
• A Walk Through Time in Kennebunkport (Celebrating 200+ Years!)
• 3 Hour Kayak/SUP Rental in Cape Porpoise Harbor
• Alpha Omega Connections – A Spiritual Healing and Guidance Home

Click here for a full list of tours in Kennebunkport .

Tips For Visiting Kennebunkport

Know where to park. During busy times, the parking lot in the center of Kennebunkport gets full and it’s tough to find parking. Luckily, we discovered a large and empty free lot about a 10-minute walk from the village. The lot is next to the Kennbunkport Fire Station. Here is a pin you can put into Google Maps to find it.

Shorter 7-Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary Option

Not all great driving trips in Maine need to be long to be fun. If you don’t have time for a full 10 day coastal Maine road trip itinerary and only have a week to spare, I’d personally cut out Portland and shave one night off Bar Harbor.

With this in mind, your Maine coast driving itinerary would be:

• Bar Harbor (2 nights)
• Camden (2 nights)
• Kennebunkport (2 nights)

This is especially true if visiting Maine in the warmer months when you’ll want to take advantage of the beaches and don’t necessarily care about exploring a bigger city as much.

If traveling to Maine in the winter, then you might instead consider removing Kennebunkport from the road trip itinerary.

With this in mind, your cool weather coastal Maine vacation itinerary would be:

• Portland (2 nights)

If you’re looking for an unforgettable week in Maine, either of the above would be perfect. These are truly some of the best scenic road trips in Maine.

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Road Trip: 4 Days on the Maine Coast

By Brad Rickman

Maine's coast hardly needs a sales pitch. That juxtaposition of quaint and cozy against the ruggedly elemental has been the region's primary draw for nearly two centuries. But the trio of cities here—Portland, Camden, and Bar Harbor—form what I think of as the heart of the state's allure, those top three tracks on the greatest hits compilation you can't stop humming. These days, they go way beyond conventional Downeast charm. You'll find some of the most creative and delicious food in the country right now in Portland , and that restless urge for invention has begun working its way up the coast. It's all a reflection of the quiet artistic spirit and fierce independence that define Mainers: tough but beautiful, like their coast.

June through September are when the weather's best, and when the flora are at their most enthusiastic. Summers get hot, but stay close to the water and you'll find the heat and humidity eased by offshore breezes. Nights are almost invariably cool. You can certainly do this trip in October—the leaves are likely to have peaked by then, but they'll still be spectacular. Just dress warmly.

What to drive

You'll be spending some time on scenic coastal roads, but this isn't northern California; Maine's not an ideal testing testing ground for performance-driver chops—no cliff-hugging curves here—so save the Porsche 911 splurge for another trip. If you do feel like indulging, and you're going in the height of summer, a convertible will pay off nicely, especially on the mid-coast and in Acadia National Park. Just remember to put the top up when you park: Summer thunderstorms aren't unheard of.

The game is small plates, heavy on seafood and veg, at Central Provisions on Wharf Street in Portland.

Day 1: Portland

Even though it still makes me smile a little each time I say it, the single-terminal, 11-gate Portland International Jetport is Maine's biggest airport. It provides access from most major regions of the country, making Portland the perfect in and out. And there's no better tone-setter for this trip.

Park yourself at the Press Hotel , a boutique spot that opened in 2015 in the building that used to be home to the Press Herald. It's cleverly styled with typewriter and printing-press motifs, and well appointed with locally crafted leathers and textiles—best of all, it’s close to everything you'll want to see. Grab your breakfast at the Standard Baking Company on Commercial Street, where the smells alone will warm your spirits. Go for a pain au chocolat, but the brioche and croissant are great too, and if it's Thursday or Saturday you'll find rugalach—all baked fresh, of course. Then head up Congress Street to the Portland Museum of Art . The building alone's worth the visit, with its soaring modern atrium, minimalist lines, and surprise spatial cutouts; but the small, intense collection is what truly impresses, running the gamut from early moderns like Renoir, Cassat, and homeboy Winslow Homer (whose studio at Prout's Neck is actually part of the museum) to a charmingly idiosyncratic midcentury selection including Hopper and Alex Katz, plus a strong selection of contemporary work.

For lunch, hit perennial favorite Eventide Oyster Co . It'll be crowded (for good reason), so put your name in and use the time to pre-tour the Old Port. Once you're in you'll want a sampling of oysters, of course—as many as your party can manage, and stay local; it's why you're here. Other must-gets include the fluke ceviche, the lobster roll, and the peekytoe crab roll, when it's in season. Afterward, finish your waterfront walk with an ice cream in hand. I like Mount Desert Island Ice Cream Company on Exchange Street, where the flavors are original and everything's handmade. If you need an afternoon pick-me-up, stop by Bard Coffee on Middle Street—they roast in house, and the digs are airy and welcoming.

Your pre-dinner cocktail should come from the Portland Hunt and Alpine Club just across from cute Post Office Park. The decor's Scandinavian and the seasonal drinks are wide-ranging, creative, and refreshing, like the Lavender Collins, made with grenadine and aquavit instead of gin. They don't lean too hard on trends, which is my way of praising the fact that you'll actually find a handful that don't involve amari.

Dinner's at Central Provisions , just off cinematically bricked-and-cobblestoned Wharf Street. The game is small plates, heavy on seafood and veg; and while the front of house is relaxed, the kitchen's serious in its imagination and technique—and its flavor. Be sure to treat yourself to the burrata starter (exact composition will vary by season and chef’s whim), one or more of the crudo small plates, the Korean-inflected house frites, and rhubarb cake if it’s in season.

Mid-coast views in Camden.

Day 2: Camden

The trick is to get out early: Grab your coffee at the Inkwell in the Press Hotel's lobby and get moving up the coast before it cools. It's less than two hours' drive if you plow straight through, but of course that's not what you're about. So head on 295 North out of the city but jam over to Route 1 around Brunswick. This is the coast road. Follow it to Thomaston, where you'll detour to 131 on the far side of town. Here things get a bit tricky: From 131 you'll grab 73 at St. George, and you'll follow it to Spruce Head Island, where you'll track down McLoon's Lobster Shack right on the water, south shore. That's lunch. Order a lobster roll and a crab roll, even if you're all by your lonesome, and know that what you're eating got caught that morning in the waters you're looking at.

Matt Ortile

Scott Laird

Siobhan Reid

Meaghan Kenny

After lunch, make your way back to 73 toward Rockland—but tack east on North Shore Drive before you arrive, to get out to Owls Head State Park . This is woodsy Maine coast at its best; park in the lot and get your phone’s camera ready for the brief but lovely hike to Owls Head Light, a functioning 19th-century lighthouse that's as severely gorgeous as the landscape over which it presides.

Stay just north of Camden at the Lincolnville Motel , exactly the brand of hipster retro you'd expect to find in Maine: laid back, warm, and friendly in an quiet way. The cabins are small (it really is a refurbed motel), but they're loaded with charm and whimsy, from the comic poolside blow-up floats to the Crosley turntables—and actual vinyl collections!—in the rooms, which are resolutely devoid of television and Wi-Fi. Owner Alice Amory is generous with local recs; you're likely to find her in one of the book-laden common spaces (where you'll also, yes, find Wi-Fi if you really need it).

In Camden, you owe yourself a walking tour. (It won't take long.) Stroll Main Street, aka Route 1, for the shops and scenery, and be sure to stop at Sea Bags to pick up one of their funky-chic tote bags made from recycled sails (the combo of design charm, water resistance, and ruggedness makes them the best all-purpose personal-item carry-ons I've ever found). Get off the streets for a walk through well-manicured Harbor Park, which gracefully notches the top of postcard-pretty Camden Harbor, on your way to grab a drink with a water view at the Rhumb Line (bar seats are best), then do dinner at Long Grain , a no-frills-in-the-dining-room, high-class-in-the-kitchen Thai joint on Elm Street. Yep, that's right: Skip the lobster (this time), and order their Pad Seuw, whose noodles are hand-made daily, and the Maine crab fried rice. They may seem like dishes you know, but they’re done here with a level of care and imagination that’ll render them fresh again.

A bit of France in Bar Harbor.

Day 3: Bar Harbor

Camden to Bar Harbor takes roughly two hours, and while it's a decidedly scenic route—you'll be curling up Route 1 right along the coast—there's so much jaw-dropping scenery where you're headed that you'll be forgiven for keeping it brisk. (Though if you do have the time, by all means make your pace leisurely.) Both Bar Harbor and Acadia are on Mount Desert Island, a big volcano- and glacier-carved bulb dangling into Penobscot Bay that's nearly sliced up its center by Somes Sound , Maine's only true fjord.

If location's your priority, the Bar Harbor Inn 's tough to beat, slung as it is along the waterfront's ridge just below the town's center. The sweeping slope of lawn runged with adirondack chairs lends it the genteel grandeur of an era bygone, and there's no better place than the Terrace Grille to grab a leisurely drink with an absolutely killer view of the harbor. (Go early. Seats are deservedly in demand.) But I like the quaint intimacy of the Balance Rock Inn , just down the coast a few hundred yards. The views are only slightly less epic, but you get a sweeping lawn, a small but lounge-ready pool, and the dormers and eaves of small(er) scale New England architecture.

Once you're checked in, cross that lawn to the Shore Path . It's a small but perfect work of Bar Harbor genius: about 1.5 miles of well-manicured walkway tracing the coastline from the Town Pier to Wayman Lane. Do the whole thing—it's flat and graveled, suitable for a leisurely stroll or, come the following morning, a jog. You'll get great views of the rock formations along the shoreline, and of course the sweeping harbor, the islands, the ships tacking in and out. If you finish on the south end, the path drops you right onto Wayman Lane, which in turn connects to Main Street; just turn left to head to the center. If you finish on the north end, you're already there, with the Terrace Grille's yellow umbrellas and the fountains of Agamont Park at your left and the town landing on your right. (If you're feeling landlocked, book a sunset sail on the schooner Margaret Todd or Bailey Louise Todd, both from Downeast Windjammer Cruises, on the pier just in front of the Bar Harbor Inn.)

For lunch, head to Side Street Cafe in the center of town. A lobster roll's the order here; it's generous and well regarded with plenty of tender claw and body meat dressed simply in butter. There's a strong list of beers, including several local options like Atlantic Real Ale on draft, and cocktails. There'll be a line, but look for a table on the streetside balcony—the seating there's self-service, and often overlooked.

Afterward, do some exploring. Take Main Street as your artery. If you're visiting in summer, there'll be crowds drawn by nearby Acadia; but as a rule they're genial, and nothing compared to what you'll find in park towns out West. The Village Green has a charm worthy of its name, and is worth a (brief) pause. Other stops should be Fair Trade Winds for handmade crafts; and Cool As A Moose for amusingly kitschy (and sure, sometimes serious) Maine and Acadia gear. Hit up CJ's Big Dipper for an ice cream. Every flavor has its fans, but I'm partial to the blueberry soft serve, because there's nothing quite so summer and there's nothing quite so Maine. It's made on premises. Don't be surprised if you find a line.

For dinner, head to Havana —also on Main Street, but away from the center of town. Get a mojito to start. (The joint's name should give you confidence, but don't be fooled: The menu's more pan-Caribbean than strictly Cuban.) Then try the seafood paella and the lobster curry; they're both loaded with flavor, and loaded with lobster, which lets you get a dose without resorting to yet another lobster roll. Eat quickly: These dishes run hot, and if you're neglectful the lobster can keep cooking till it's tough.

Sand Beach, living up to its name in Acadia National Park.

Day 4: Acadia National Park

Next day, you’re off on your grand one-day tour of Acadia . The truly ambitious will get up before sunrise to watch dawn roll in from the peak of Cadillac Mountain. But I’ll assume that, like me, you’re only of modest ambition; and so I'll suggest that, like me, you do Cadillac at the end of the day rather than the beginning. Still, there’s no great case for delay. The park’s quite close to the center of town: Just follow Paradise Hill Road to the Hulls Cove entrance. (Grab a map at the Visitors' Center.) Drive the Park Loop Road, which is as direct and efficient as its name suggests, roughly tracing the park's circumference to give access to all major attractions. First stop is Sand Beach. Bring a towel, or even a chair, because it's exactly what the name implies: a wide expanse of yellow sand with crystal-clear water that, depending on the time of year, just might be warm enough (low 60s on a good day) for the brave to swim in. When you're tired of sunbathing, give your inner amateur climber a workout on the south-side rocks. (Shoes recommended.)

Other Loop features include Thunder Hole , a rock crevice that booms spectacularly when the tides rush in (it would be worth visiting for the surrounding geoformations alone); the precipitous Otter Cliff ; and pristine Echo Lake . Save some time (and energy), though, for that trip up Cadillac Mountain . It’s the highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard and, with its sweeping views of the harbor, one of the park’s most impressive features. There are hikes long and short around the summit. Do one or two of the half-milers that lead you through stunning summit views, and then, if you’re still feeling it, take the South Ridge trail (7.1 miles round trip) down from the summit across shifting landscapes—pine forest, bald volcanic rock, scrub meadow—to the Blackwoods campground and back. Finishing the hike around sundown puts you at the summit at magic hour. You'll believe the hype.

Finish your long weekend off with an evening snack at Jordan Pond House . Reservations are a good idea unless you plan to show up after 4 p.m. The restaurant is spacious; it sits above a wide meadow with access to the pond—and if you have time, by all means make the short hike to check it out. Specialties of the house are tea and popovers, which are like the delicious mutant love-children of muffins and croissants, and which can be added onto nearly any dish on the menu. As for tea, the reputation's rock solid. But if the day's been hot and you've done the South Ridge Trail and you're feeling both tired and righteous at once, consider yourself in possession of permission to order a beer. They've got a fine selection, including some locals, on tap. Some days—some trips —just need to end that way.

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A Road Trip to Maine Itinerary You’ll Want to Steal

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: September 18, 2023

Categories North America

Planning a road trip to Maine? If so then THIS is the Maine road trip itinerary for you! After all, I’ve been to Maine countless times and want to share all of my amazing, expert advice with you.

In this way, I hope to make the entire trip planning process a whole hell of a lot easier for you. You know, so that you can actually enjoy your Maine road trip and not stress out about where to go, what to do, and how to get around.

Because believe it or not, Maine is easily one of the most beautiful states I’ve ever been to, which is why I’ve been countless times and definitely plan on returning ASAP – once I have the cash to do so.

So, if you love picturesque lighthouses, fresh steamed lobster, stunning coastal drives, and exquisite national parks, then a road trip to Maine will be the perfect trip for you.

However, enough chitty chat. You’re a busy human with tons of uber-important things to do. So, let’s swan dive into my beyond awesome expert tips that will help you plan just one of the many Maine road trips to come.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

If you’re booking a trip right now then I IMPLORE you to get travel insurance – even if it’s not from me. 

After all, this past year has been a wild ride and I don’t want you to lose money because government regulations have changed. 

Truth be told though, I’ve never traveled without travel insurance and don’t think you should either – especially since I think we’ve all had plans drastically change because of the pandemic. 

Therefore, find an insurance agency that covers travel changes related to COVID-19, like my two all-time faves World Nomads and Safety Wing . You can also read more about which policy is right for you in my full review here .

🕒 In a hurry and haven’t planned your road trip to Maine yet? Book this self guided driving tour of Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor . It is a fun way to explore the area on your own! ⛰️

How To Get To Maine For Your Road Trip To Maine

Since I live in New York, I normally just drive to Maine. However, if you’re from out of town and want to fly into Maine, then you could always fly into Portland International Jetport.

It’s pretty convenient since it’s only about two miles from downtown Portland and services flights from all over the world. Upon arrival, I’d absolutely rent a car since you obviously can’t do a road trip to Maine without one!

However, if you want to visit Portland for a few days and then rent a car, you could always take the route #5 bus to downtown Portland and then rent a car once you’ve experienced some of the fun things to do in Portland .

Pro Tip: You could also try flying into Boston Logan International Airport. It’s way bigger than Portland and is a major travel hub both internationally and domestically.

Therefore, you could probably find a cheap flight to Boston and then just drive to Maine from there since it’s only about an hour and a half drive from there to the Maine border.

But, if you’re not really interested in flying, you could always try:

Amtrak trains from all over the US travel directly to multiple train stations throughout Maine. So, this is definitely an option if you don’t really feel like flying. Just do your research first since train travel in the US can be really expensive.

I mean, a one-way, coach ticket from Newark to Portland starts at $63 per person and takes 9.5 hours. So, you could definitely end spending more money on a train ticket than on a flight.

Two different bus companies operate throughout Maine and have routes that go into and out of the state. Of the two, Concord Coach Lines is more local with routes from Maine that stop in major cities in New York, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

Tickets start as low as $79.00 one way and $158.00 round trip. In contrast, Greyhound runs buses into and out of Maine from most major cities across the country, with one-way tickets from Boston to Portland starting at as little as $16 per person.

How To Get Around During Your Road Trip To Maine

Since you’re planning a Maine road trip, you’ll obviously need a car while you’re here. Luckily for you, Portland International Jetport is pretty small. Therefore, it will be really easy for you to get to Hertz, Alamo, Avis, Dollar, Enterprise, or Budget Car Rental to actually rent a car before you start your Maine road trip itinerary.

Yeah, they have a fleet of more than 200 cars that are all located inside the consolidated car rental atrium that is protected from the elements (i.e. rain and snow) inside the airport’s new parking garage. It’s also literally steps away from the terminal so you’ll have zero problems finding a car rental.

When choosing a car though, you’ll want to make sure that it gets good gas mileage and that the interior is super roomy. This way, you can relax and be supremely comfy during your road trip to Maine.

Now, in terms of cost, you should on average expect to pay $409 to rent a car for a week and $149 to rent a car for the weekend. Anything significantly more expensive than this is probably not something you need to invest in.

When To See Fall Foliage in Maine

Since my family and I would routinely visit Maine every October throughout my childhood, I know all too well that many people like to road trip to Maine to see fall foliage.

So, if you want to see fall foliage while you’re here, the best time to visit Maine is between late September and mid-October (Columbus Day Weekend is the perfect time to visit and is when my family used to go).

Generally speaking, this is when fall foliage is at its most stunning. Although this time frame can vary by elevation and latitude since some high-elevation, more northern areas across Maine enjoy peak fall foliage in late September.

And if you want even more expert advice on visiting Maine this fall, then check out my ultimate guide to fall in Maine now!

The Ultimate Road Trip to Maine Itinerary

1. ogunquit.

More likely than not, when you start your Maine road trip itinerary, you’ll probably be near the state’s southernmost point. So let’s start our road trip to Maine there!

And what better place to begin the best road trip in Maine than in a place whose name literally means “beautiful place by the sea” in Native American, Abenaki?

Plus, plenty of people seem to agree with this description since Ogunquit is easily one of the most popular summer tourist destinations in all of Maine.

Which makes sense since the beach here is stunning, the sea air is refreshing, the cocktails are delicious … I’m seriously thinking about moving there permanently right now!

That’s why, Ogunquit is definitely one of the best beach towns in Maine , and now you too will get a chance to experience the awesomeness for yourself!

Because while you’re here, you can see a show at Ogunquit Playhouse, walk along the scenic Marginal Way walking path (it’s only around 1,25 miles long), or visit the quaint fishing village of Perkins Cove.

Other Things To Do In Ogunquit

Ogunquit museum of american art.

If local art is what floats your boat (nautical pun intended!) then the Ogunquit Museum of American Art is the place for you! There are over 3000 individual pieces of art on display throughout this museum. And honestly, I’m not all that surprised, seeing as they first opened in 1953!

Paintings, sculptures, and photographs aplenty are all permanently on display in this deliberately American-focused museum.

Before you leave, be sure to explore their 3-acre sculpture park, complete with 18 small gardens that will delight your eyes and help you relax as you take in all the culture and artistry. A walk in the park that makes you feel smart and creative? Sign me up!

Take A Scenic Cruise Along The Coast

The sea looks great, but Ogunquit looks even better from the water!

So, hop onto a boat and treat yourself to a tour of the coast: learn about the history of the town, see the historic lighthouses which make this great American state so famous, and find out something new about the world of lobsters and lobster fishing. It’s a Maine tradition!

Because whether you’re sipping cocktails on a luxury yacht, or enjoying the simpler life by gently sailing by on a rustic wooden sailboat, a scenic cruise will make your visit to Ogunquit and your super awesome Maine road trip complete!

What To Eat In Ogunquit

Barnacle billy’s.

It’s time to grab some of that famous Maine lobster during your road trip to Maine! And Barnacle Billy’s is the place to do that since it’s famed for its luxurious lobster dishes – in addition to plenty of other fresh fish dishes too – that you can order along with a delicious bowl of clam chowder.  

So, whether you decide to dine indoors or out on the sundeck, the stunning ocean views will be the perfect accompaniment to your meal!

Wait, am I eating a ray gun? Nope! This is place serves delicious urban Thai food. So, put some kick into your food by ordering some of their spicy and exotic dishes!  

And although they do have Thai staples like green curry and fried rice, do try some of their house specials, especially the crispy duck with orange sauce. There are also plenty of vegan and gluten-free dishes here too!

Where To Stay In Ogunquit

The grand hotel (ogunquit).

⭐️ Rating: 8.9/10 (581 Reviews) Price: $101 per night 📍Location: 276 Shore Road, Ogunquit, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

If you want to live the high-life for a hot minute then the Grand Hotel will help you to relax in style! Because on top of having a spacious room with a private balcony, you’ll also enjoy access to an indoor heated pool and an outdoor jacuzzi for maximum pampering!

“Location was perfect, room was spacious and clean! One of the nicest rooms I’ve ever stayed in. Entire property was super clean. Price was very reasonable. Small balcony with chairs off the bedroom, wish I would have had more time to enjoy them. Will definitely stay here when I return to Ogunquit! Well done!!” Kim ( read more reviews now! )

There’s also plenty of deck space here for an evening drink outside at this well-located hotel, which sits less than a mile away from the Ogunquit Museum of Modern Art!

Wells Moody Motel (Wells)

⭐️ Rating: 8.6/10 (626 Reviews) Price: $89 per night 📍Location: 119 Post Road, Wells, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Just up the highway from Ogunquit, the Wells Moody Motel offers guests all the friendly and exceptional service you could hope to receive during a Maine road trip.

“We were greeted in the office very warmly. check in was easy. First impression of the Motel was it was very cute. property was well taken care of. We pulled around to our room there was a cute little porch in front. went into the room and it was very clean! T he bed and pillows very comfortable. The bathroom was very clean. The 2 rooms we were in looked like they had maybe been recently updated. very pleased with our stay.” Michelle ( read more reviews now! )

They offer bright and well-equipped rooms that will make you feel right at home. The beds here are also super comfy, and include access to an on-site, outdoor pool!

2. Kennebunkport

It’s time to head further north to iconic Kennebunkport – at least if you to make this Maine Road Trip truly epic. Because if you want beaches, Kennebunkport has got em’! So, be sure to give both Goose Rocks Beach and Arundel Beach a try!

And you know people love them since this coastal town has been offering visitors professional levels of hospitality since the 1800s. So, they’re obviously pretty dang good at it by now!

Because with stunning sea views, sandy summer beaches, historic churches (St. Anne’s Episcopal Church dates all the way back to 1887 and features stunning architecture), and beautiful fall foliage, Kennebunkport is truly one of the best romantic getaways in Maine .

It’s even magical when it’s covered in snow! That’s why there’s really no time of year when this place doesn’t look like it belongs on a postcard!

Things To Do In Kennebunkport:

Visit the goat island lighthouse.

If you head over to Cape Porpoise, you’ll find this nearly two-hundred-year-old landmark of New England standing proudly by the shore on its own little island.

Legend has it that this ancient watchtower used to be a lookout point for Secret Service agents of George H.W. Bush, WAY back in ye olde 1993. I know, that’s not that long ago. But it’s still history, y’all!

Check Out The Seashore Trolley Museum

This is one of my favorite things to do in Kennebunkport Maine ! There are over 250 antique streetcars, buses, and other vehicles all collected together in one place. And they don’t all just sit there either!

Because every 45 minutes you can board one of these vintage trolleys, take a ride around the museum, and experience what it really felt like to travel in the early 1900s!

What To Eat In Kennebunkport

Alisson’s restaurant.

When planning a road trip to Maine, food is of the utmost importance. And thankfully, you can get almost anything you want, at Alisson’s Restaurant!

There’s a huge amount of generously portioned pub food available, including lobster mac ’n’ cheese, steak and shrimp salad, mussels, clams, tacos, pizzas, sandwiches, and of course, blueberry pie!

And since Alisson’s is also a pub, there’s a large selection of cocktails, wines, tequilas, and whiskeys to help you party the night away!

Rococo Artisan Ice Cream

Time to satisfy that sweet tooth! And in addition to all the crowd-pleasing, traditional flavors, Rococo also specializes in creating unique – yet tasty – varieties of ice cream.

I mean, have you ever had Goat Cheese ice cream? How about Garam Masala? Or Banana Red Hot? Now’s the time to try them out and be adventurous!

Where To Stay In Kennebunkport

The breakwater inn and spa (kennebunkport).

⭐️ Rating: 7.2/10 (21 Reviews) Price: $199 per night 📍Location: 127-133 Ocean Avenue PO Box 560C, Kennebunkport, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

This historic Victorian-era property is a charming Maine guest house. It has all the trappings of a comfortable night’s rest, with the added bonus of a spa, a fitness center, free wi-fi (obvs), continental breakfast, and bike rentals for getting your fitness on while you sight-see!

The in-house restaurant also provides guests with great views of the ocean, which goes well with the Breakwater Inn’s nautical theme!

The Lodge at Turbat’s Creek  (Kennebunkport)

⭐️ Rating: 8.9/10 (176 Reviews) Price: $199 per night 📍Location: 7 Turbat’s Creek Road, Kennebunkport, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

The Lodge at Turbat’s Creek is well situated, friendly, and extremely comfortable. The furnishings are also high quality, the breakfast is very generous, and you can meet other travelers out in the garden, pool, and restaurant areas. Perfect for a well-deserved pit stop during your road trip to Maine!

3. Portland

Portland is easily one of my favorite places to visit in Maine. So much so that I’ve been there at least 15 different times!

Because this hipster paradise has it all: the cobblestone streets of the Old Port area, the historic beauty of Victorian mansions, the amazing art of the Portland Museum of Art, the inventiveness of craft beer breweries, and even its very own observatory for all y’all science geeks!

But, one of the best things about Portland is that while it is a city, it still has tons of green spaces and expansive natural areas that allow you to enjoy all the natural beauty of Maine. Yup, it really is the best of both worlds!

I mean, you can easily go from vibrant nightlife and culture to strolling along the Eastern Promenade, breathing in the sea air. You could also take scenic photos at nearby Bug Light or walk along the breakwater to ever awesome Spring Point Ledge Light (it’s tucked away inside a college campus).

Or, you could head over to Cape Elizabeth and do a bit of lighthouse spotting! Wait, Kelly, is that a sport? Well, it is now since Maine is famous for its lighthouses, with over 150 lining the Northeast, with plenty of them being in Portland.

Pro Tip: While you’re in Portland, definitely do a day trip to Cape Elizabeth. There are a ton of great parks here and this is also where you can see Portland Head Light and Cape Elizabeth Light!

If you want, you can even check out my list of the best lighthouses in Portland Maine if you’re interested!

Things To Do In Portland

Visit the victoria mansion museum.

Fancy a blast from the past? This 1860s Italianate palace is one of the best historic homes to visit in Portland Maine. The elaborate frescoes, the intricately detailed carpets, and the period-piece furniture will have you falling in love with the good ol’ days.

See, you don’t really need a time machine to find out just how lush and OTT they used to have it back in the day – just come and see Victoria Mansion!

Take The Ferry Out To Peaks Island And Rent A bike

If you’re looking for cute streets and lush wilderness in which to ride around and feel the wind in your hair, just hop onto the big yellow Casco Bay Lines ferry and take the 20-minute trip out to Peaks Island. Here you can rent a bike (or a golf cart if you’d prefer not to have to do too much peddling) and take in the many MANY gorgeous views of the ocean!

What To Eat In Portland

Duckfat friteshack.

You heard me! If you want the crispiest, tastiest, LARGEST portion of fries in the state of Maine, make sure you stop by the Duckfat Friteshack.

These hand-cut fries can be a quick snack or their own full meal, depending on your appetite. Each portion comes with your choice of two of the Friteshack’s dips – truffle ketchup is my personal fave!

The Holy Donut

Ok, so following this Maine road trip itinerary may not be the healthiest choice for your figure, but we’re here to have fun, y’all!

And eating at The Holy Donut is one of the best things to do in Portland Maine, period! These donuts are big enough to share (if you’re feeling generous), so tuck into a sea salt and chocolate donut (highly recommended) as fast as you can!

Where To Stay In Portland

Inn at st john portland (in-town, portland).

⭐️ Rating: 8.4/10 (989 Reviews) Price: $149 per night 📍Location: 939 Congress Street, Portland, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Located right in the heart of Portland and never too far from anything you could want to see, this cozy and colorful inn will leave you feeling fresh and ready for a fun day of sightseeing. The Inn at St John Portland In-Town is also pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along for the ride!

Portland Harbor Hotel (Portland)

⭐️ Rating: 8.5/10 (766 Reviews) Price: $179 per night 📍Location: 468 Fore Street, Portland, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

With a restaurant, fitness center, free bike use, flat-screen TVs, and wi-fi all conveniently tucked away inside the Old Port district, this hotel ticks off a lot of boxes! And for those looking for a splash of luxury during their Maine road trip itinerary, this is definitely of the best places to stay in Portland Maine!

4. Waldoboro

Waldoboro is one of those towns that you will definitely drive through during your road trip to Maine. It is known for its three lakes and has a rich and thriving fishing and agricultural history. 

Take your pick of Duckpuddle Pond to Damariscotta Lake or Pemaquid Pond and spend a relaxing summer day swimming, fishing, or watching a gorgeous sunset. 

For more outdoor fun hit the trails at the Goose River Peace Corps Preserve and Pond. Or take refuge from the elements and head over to the Waldoboro Historical Society and learn more about this quaint New England town.

Things to do in Waldoboro

Visit fawcett’s antique toy museum.

This quirky museum is right on Atlantic Highway and it is worth a stop if you are just driving through town. Every surface is covered with memorabilia as far back as the 1920s and 1930s. 

Owl’s Head Transportation Museum

Even though Waldoboro is known for its lakes, this museum isn’t focused on boats but on other types of transportation. On display are antique cars, trains, and motorcycles. 

What To Eat In Waldoboro

Moody’s diner.

You can’t miss Moody’s Diner if you are on Route 1 driving through Waldoboro during your road trip to Maine. It is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving the local community since 1927. Classic diner fare is on the menu but watch out for the blueberry pie or whoopie pies for an extra special Maine treat. 

Odd Alewives Farm and Brewery

Just behind Moody’s is the Odd Alewives Farm and Brewery. Odd Alewives uses ingredients from their own land and other local farms. There is plenty of seating on the premises and they even have a fire pit to roast marshmallows and make smores. Their beer is also great to pair with pizza that they also make on-site in a brick oven.  

Where To Stay In Waldoboro

Friendship harbor historic home (friendship).

⭐️ Rating: 8.3/10 (3 Reviews) Price: $236 per night 📍Location: Waldoboro, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

This Victorian Harbor House is right on the water and has its own dock. Literally, in 15 seconds you’ll be in the water! It may be from the 1800s but it is newly renovated with modern amenities plus it is near enough to town but still quiet.

The owners live nearby and their sons can drop off lobster that they catch themselves. Without a doubt you’ll get the full Maine experience! 

Damariscotta Lakefront Retreat (Newcastle)

⭐️ Rating: 5/5 (18 Reviews) Price: $636 per night 📍Location: Nobleboro, Maine, United States of America Details: Read more on Vrbo!

If you are craving a quiet retreat away while on your road trip in Maine, this cabin is just the ticket. It is steps away from Damariscotta Lake where you can go swimming or you can spend your days relaxing on the deck and doing nothing. Hey, it’s your vacation and you can do you! 

5. Rockland

Just a couple of hours further up the highway from its half-namesake on the mid-coast of Maine, Rockland has all the charm of many other New England coastal towns.

But, it’s much less busy than Portland -and other more southern towns – since it’s a bit further away from Boston. In fact, if you’re planning a road trip to Maine during the off-season, that’ll be the perfect time to visit this jewel of the east coast!

See, Rockland’s local economy moved away from fishing in the 1990s, and began to focus more on catering to the increasing amounts of tourists coming to stay.

As a result, the downtown area is now full of boutiques, cute little restaurants, museums, and other assorted historical buildings. No wonder their nickname is Vacationland!

And some of the best things to do in Rockland include a stop at the Support Puffin Project Outpost in town, a visit to the Maine Center for Contemporary Art, a quiet walk along the Rockland Harbor Trail, a visit to the historic Olson House, and a cruise aboard a vintage Windjammer.

Things To Do In Rockland

Visit the farnsworth art museum.

Good news everyone! Rockland has its very own regional art museum, and it’s pretty dang good!

In total, there are 15,000 different paintings, sculptures, and other works of art collected here, with several exhibitions going on continuously throughout the year, covering everything from local artistic contributors to world-famous American artists.

Come and see what they’ve got for yourself – there’s even a cute little library!

Walk Along The Breakwater to Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse

Not only is this activity totally free, but the walk is wonderfully scenic and culminates in a stop at an enchanting lighthouse from 1902. Just be careful since the breakwater is extremely uneven.

However, if you visit during the summer, you’ll be able to explore the interior of the lighthouse after walking 7/8th of a mile out there!

What To Eat In Rockland

Archer’s on the pier.

For the best in locally owned and locally prepared Rockland food, Archer’s on the Pier is your Maine (get it?) port of call! There’s all the usual amazing seafood options – lobster for days, yo! – as well as steaks, burgers, sandwiches, and pasta. Depending on when you dine, you might even get treated to some live local jazz music!

Cafe Miranda

It’s chowdah time people! Fresh, creamy, delicious seafood chowdah, and lots of it! The portion sizes here are also HUGE, so come hungry! Whether you go for the chowder, or would rather have a hotdog, a sammie, or a salad, prepare to feel full when you leave!

Trust me, enjoying a meal at Cafe Miranda with its quirky array of pink flamingos (I’m not even joking) is one of my fave things to do here.

Where To Stay In Rockland

The craignair inn by the sea (spruce head).

⭐️ Rating: 9.4/10 (26 Reviews) Price: $164 per night 📍Location: 5 Third Street, Spruce Head, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

At the end of a long dead-end road lies a beacon of rest and relaxation. Just south of Rockland, the Craignair Inn by the Sea is like something out of a storybook.

Seriously, picturesque doesn’t even cover it! The owners are also super friendly and accommodating, the beds are soft and warm, and the rooms are well equipped and spacious. Get yourself here now!

Trade Winds Inn (Rockland)

⭐️ Rating: 7.7/10 (647 Reviews) Price: $107 per night 📍Location: 2 Park Drive, Rockland, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

To truly get a taste of coastal Maine, make sure you try out this boardwalk-style hotel. It sits right on the banks of Rockland Harbor and has just the right balance of antique and modern facilities. The bar area is casual and comfy while the indoor pool and fitness center are both first class. Need I say more?

Up, up, up the coast we go! Because Camden is our next stop on this Maine road trip itinerary. And residents of Camden love to be “where the mountains meet the sea”, and I am here to tell you that that is accurate!

After all, Camden lies right at the foot of Camden Hills State Park, meaning visitors can enjoy the vibrance of the harbor town community while still being able to escape into the sprawling wilderness of natural New England.

So, whether you want to exercise your body or your mind – or your tastebuds – Camden will have something for you!

Pro Tip : If you’re short on time when planning your road trip to Maine (and who isn’t) you can combine a trip to Camden with a stay in Rockland.

I mean, Camden is only about twenty minutes down the road from Rockland so you could EASILY do a day trip here. I also personally preferred Rockland to Camden but, hey, that’s just me.

Things To Do In Camden

Camden hills state park.

As I said before, Camden is right next door to this State Park. And with 30 miles of hiking, biking – and in the winter months, skiing – trails available, you can lose yourself for hours in this lush oasis of greenery.

And if you’re feeling truly adventurous, you can hike up to the top of the 1,384 foot tall Mount Megunticook, for some of the best views of Penobscot Bay as you conquer one of the best hikes in Maine !

Picnic at Megunticook Lake

Pack up your picnic basket and travel just a few miles north of Camden Harbor to find this highly Instagrammable slice of the quiet life! Because Megunticook Lake has tons of designated picnic areas for you to use that come complete with grills and tables.

Plus, if you fancy a swim, the lake itself has a floating diving platform for you to use, as well as a shallow area for younger swimmers!

What To Eat In Camden

Fresh & Co – This family-owned local business is the place to go for fresh, down-to-earth meals. Fresh & Co primarily focuses on sustainability, with extra care given to the ingredients and the flavors of their dishes. They also showcase local artwork on their walls. It’s truly a deep dive into Camden local life!

40 Paper – French, Spanish, Italian, and Mediterranean influences all come together in this former mill from the civil war! But don’t worry: while the dishes may be very European, the ingredients are all fresh from Maine since 40 Paper works with local farmers and fishermen to bring you the best of the catch!

Where To Stay In Camden

Cedar crest inn (camden).

If you’re looking for great service and great value, Cedar Crest Inn will provide! Located just to the south of downtown Camden, this seasonal motel has an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and comfortable rooms.

There’s also an outdoor play area for those traveling with young children!

Elms of Camden (Camden)

⭐️ Rating: 9.3/10 (63 Reviews) Price: $186 per night 📍Location: 84 Elm Street, Camden, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Elms of Camden features cozy and luxurious rooms that all come with a complimentary, multi-course breakfast that is served to you fresh, every single morning. Why yes, I will take another helping of pancakes, thanks for asking!

“Gary and James are gracious, thoughtful hosts, taking pride in their commitance. they obviously love it and so do their” Nicholla ( read more reviews now! )

The hosts here are also all about hospitality, and will work extra hard to make sure your Maine road trip is the best ever!

7. Acadia National Park

Meet Acadia National Park. It is the only national park in all of New England but comes fully outfitted with 47,000 acres of land. 158 miles of hiking trails. 1,100 different species of plants, and over 400 different species of animals. Oh, and a casual 20 mountains for you to climb.

Like the notorious Cadillac Mountain, which is the perfect place to go to see the very first sunrise in the United States. However, if you don’t feel like climbing all the way to the top, you can always drive up and just do the easy, 0.5-mile loop trail around the summit.

Not surprisingly, Acadia is easily one of the top 10 most visited national parks in the United States and it’s one of the last stops on our road trip to Maine!

And what a stop it is. Once you cross the bridge onto Mount Desert Island, you’ll feel like you’re really getting back to nature as you head towards the forests, lakes and hills of Acadia National Park. So, stretch your legs and enjoy all that this amazing stop on your Maine road trip itinerary has to offer!

Things to do in Acadia National Park

I do believe i mentioned the hiking trails….

As with many State Parks, Acadia National Park has hiking trails for all levels of expertise and challenge. Beginners and casual walkers can enjoy the Jordan Pond Nature Trail, or see panoramic views on the Cadillac Summit path.

For a good afternoon hike though, visitors can try the Ship Harbor Nature Trail, or head over to Bar Island to explore its beautiful forests (though only at low tide – make sure you keep your eye on the time or you’ll be trapped)!

And If you’re feeling more adventurous, the Great Head Trail will take you out to the Sea Cliffs on the east side of Sand Beach. Otherwise, if “hiking” is basically your unofficial middle name, then Precipice Trail awaits you!

It’s one of the best hikes in Acadia National Park and features small obstacles like an almost vertical 1,000-foot climb at one point. Erm, if you need me, I’ll be in the bar ….

Take A Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride

Sure, you could hike. Or would you rather have the gorgeous natural scenery roll gently by you as you pretend to be Queen of All you Survey in your very own horse-drawn carriage? Yeah, I’d opt for the latter too.

So, If you feel like I do, then make your way down to Wildwood Stables on the southeast side of the island and you can do exactly that! Daily carriage tours are provided here from May through October and follow along roads originally constructed by John D. Rockefeller in the early to mid-1900s!

And if you really want to have the Maine road trip of a lifetime and you lead an enviable lifestyle, you can bring your own horses with you and ride with them instead!

What to eat in Acadia National Park

Do you ever wish for the purrr-fect breakfast? Well, that’s what you’ll find at 2 Cats in Bar Harbor! Their creative homemade breakfast combinations feature everything from pancakes and bagels to tofu scramble and granola.

Plus, you’ll get baked biscuits and strawberry butter with pretty much every order! Yup, now that’s what I call a Maine road trip winner.

Jordan Pond House Restaurant

Believe it or not, there’s actually a restaurant INSIDE Acadia National Park. It overlooks Jordan Pond and is great place to go for some pop-overs, chowdah, and a fresh Maine lobstah roll.

Where To Stay In Acadia National Park

Acadia inn (bar harbor).

⭐️ Rating: 8.7/10 (1090 Reviews) Price: $134 per night 📍Location: 98 Eden Street, Bar Harbor, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

This stylish and well-maintained hotel comes with an outdoor pool – complete with hot tub – a complimentary breakfast buffet, flat-screen TVs, and wi-fi.

“Excellent location about a mile from downtown Bar Harbor. It’s an easy walk to town, so you don’t need to drive and stress about parking. Also very close to Acadia and all the top attractions. Bed was very comfortable and the room was clean, good water pressure in the shower, convenient grab and go breakfast, and a hot tub to top it off. I’d definitely stay here again.” Justin ( read more reviews now! )

But most importantly, it lies connected to a trail that leads directly into Acadia National Park itself! Just grab yourself a good night’s sleep, fill up on their tasty breakfast, step out the door, and start walking. It’s that simple!

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel (Bar Harbor)

⭐️ Rating: 9.1/10 (631 Reviews) Price: $189 per night 📍Location: 269 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

With its location right in the center of downtown Bar Harbor, you’ll be well connected to both Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor’s sprawling coastal beaches.

But, you might be tempted to just stay indoors since the rooms here are super comfortable and well furnished, with modern fixtures amongst period decor.

“Location is great . Furniture and setting is so nice . Parking is comfortable and large of space.” Gerardo ( read more reviews now! )

Heck, there’s even an indoor pool and fitness center just in case you want to get your fitness-related swerve on. It’s honestly one of the more luxurious places to stay during your road trip to Maine!

8. Bar Harbor

This not-so-secret coastal town is a not-so-secret stop on our Maine road trip itinerary. And that’s basically because Bar Harbor is known as the gateway to everybody’s favorite…Acadia National Park.

So, if you’re short on time, You could always do a day trip and experience all that Bar Harbor has to offer as part of your trip to Acadia.

Because honestly, there really is a ton to do in this picturesque coastal town, besides visiting nearby Acadia National Park of course. I mean, if you’re at least a semi-morning person, you could get up before dawn and walk the length of the beautiful Shore Path.

It was originally built in 1880, is about a 1/2 mile long, starts at the town pier and Agamont Park, and offers you stunning views of the surrounding, Porcupine Islands.

Afterward, explore the Wild Gardens of Acadia, which are truly stunning to behold and home to over 200+ incredible plant species. Next, check out the Abbe Museum, which is a full on, Smithsonian institution that educated visitors about Native American history and culture in Maine.

And if that’s still not enough fun stuff for you to do during your road trip to Maine, then you could always visit other local attrations like the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History, the College of the Atlantic Gardens, and the Mount Desert Oceanarium.

Pro Tip: Wanna get out of the country and explore Canada? If so then hop aboard the high-speed CAT Ferry and take it all the way to Canada! The journey lasts about 3.5 hours and will drop you off in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.

Once here, you can enjoy the beauty of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, visit the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and admire the Halifax Public Gardens of the Halifax Citadel National Site,

What to Eat in Bar Harbor

Ben and bill’s chocolate emporium.

Fudge? Check. Ice cream? Check. Candies? Oh yeah! Plus, pretty much everything on offer here is homemade and guaranteed to send your tastebuds spinning. And, FYI, I mean that in the best possible way.  

And with over 70 different flavors of ice cream and gelato available, you’ll feel like a kid in a … well, you know what I mean!

The Barnacle

Stuff your face silly at this amazing Bar Harbor restaurant, which is known for its delicious cocktails. Personally, though, I love their oysters and their next-level awesome pesto pasta.

CIAO Food/Drink

This place is equal parts popular and small. So yeah, you’ll probably have to wait to get inside. But once you’re across the threshold, your patience will be rewarded with delicious French lobster rolls, pork belly tacos, and fried cauliflower.

The portions are also on the small-ish side so definitely order a few things.

Where to Stay in Bar Harbor (see above for more recs)

The inn on mount desert (bar harbor).

⭐️ Rating: 9.3/10 (913 Reviews) Price: $199 per night 📍Location: 68 Mt. Dessert Street, Bar Harbor, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

This charming family-owned inn has a modern but relaxed feel about it that everyone will love. Rooms here are also well-priced at around $150 per night and include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, tea/coffee-making facilities, minifridges, and more.

“Had the feel of a BnB much more than a hotel. Delicious homemade breakfast including omelets to order as well as homemade muffins and bread. EXTREMELY CLEAN. Short drive to Acadia Natl Park!” Macayla ( read more reviews now! )

As a guest, you’ll also enjoy a delicious, daily breakfast as well as access to a private balcony with harbor or garden views.

Full disclosure, this is a supremely quiet, extremely tiny town along the Northern coast of Maine. So yes, this stop on your road trip to Maine will be pretty chill and mainly for people who love the great outdoors.

But it’s a wonderful, sleepy little fishing village that was first founded in 1826 along the Machias.

Today though, you can make your way through one of the area’s many awe-inspiring hiking trails, including Bog Brook Cove, Cutler Bold Coast Trail (it’s an amazing hidden gem that you shouldn’t miss), and the trails within the Western Head Preserve.

However, because you’re so far North, you could easily cross the border into Canada and check out the Bay of Fundy since the border with Canada is only about an hour and fifteen minutes away. If you want to drive all the way to Nova Scotia though, it’ll be about a 6-hour drive, so be prepared.

Things to do in Cutler

Hike or bike on through the cutler coast public reserved land.

This 12,334-acre wilderness area is brimming over with expansive blueberry barrens, pristine woodlands, and peatlands that feature jaw-droppingly beautiful cliffside views of the Bay of Fundy. There are also a ton of remote campsites here where you can really channel your inner Bear Grylls if you so desire.

Little River Lighthouse

Take a scenic walk to this quaint AF lighthouse, do a guided tour of the facility to learn about its fascinating history, and – if you’re lucky – spend the night for a truly memorable stay in Cutler.

Go On A Cruise With The Bold Coast Charter Company

Go on an amazing boat ride to Machias Seal Island. While you’re here, you can marvel at the single biggest puffin colony in all of Maine.

What to Eat/Where to Stay in Cutler (there are a distinct lack of options here)

For food, you can enjoy some delicious local fare at Heen’s Restaurant. Otherwise, you can venture into either Jonesboro and Machias for a wider selection of good eats.

The Bluebird Motel (East Machias)

⭐️ Rating: 8.4/10 (252 Reviews) Price: $99 per night 📍Location: 231 Dublin Street, Machias, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Yeah, there aren’t a ton of places to spend the night in Cutler. However, the rooms at the Bluebird Motel are well-priced (less than $100 per night) and consistently given great reviews by guests since they have everything you need for a comfy stay.

10. Rangeley Lake (An Inland Stop For Anyone With A Bit Of Extra Time)

If you have an extra day or two to spare, then here’s another great spot to add to your Maine road trip itinerary! It’s located in western Maine, a mere 40 miles from the New Hampshire border.

Because the Rangeley Lakes region is a picturesque, expansive area that is filled with stunning natural beauty. It also includes a grand total of six different lakes, like Rangeley Lake itself.

This idyllic rural destination also has a large number of green spaces and waterways for visitors to enjoy, perfect for spending time getting back into nature, and enjoying all the comforts that a small-town vacation can bring.

And if you’re a fan of seaplanes, then you’re in luck because Rangeley Lake is a designated water landing zone for seaplanes. Therefore, you might find yourself watching one of these bad boys speeding down and coming to a steady stop on the surface of the water!

Things To Do In Rangeley Lake

Rangeley lake state park.

Almost 90 acres of land makes up this state park. It also sits on a section of the Appalachian Trail that runs along Saddleback Mountain and is a popular place to rent a kayak and get yourself out onto that crystal clear water!

However, If you’re more of a landlubber like me, then there are plenty of trails for hiking, camping, and picnicking areas, as well as spots for viewing tons of amazing wildlife. There are also plenty of opportunities for fishing since the waters here are full of trout and salmon.

Rangeley Outdoor Sporting Heritage Museum

If you’re more of a city person, and the idea of actually catching a fish yourself sounds like a total nightmare, then you can always just learn more about such outdoor pursuits right here!

Situated at the most northwestern point of Rangeley Lake, in the village of Oquossoc (yes, you read that right), this museum introduces visitors to the past, present, and, in some cases, future of outdoor sports!

Yup, this small, but delightful, museum is packed full of information that spans thousands of years of sporting history, from the Native American experience all the way to President Eisenhower’s 1955 visit, making this the perfect place to visit during any road trip to Maine.

What To Eat In Rangeley Lake

The red onion.

This place serves all of the home-cooked Italian food you could ask for! So, expect to find pizza, pasta, spaghetti, burgers, wraps, meatloaf, salad, and even steak! Yup, just an all-around cute, family-owned place that was first pulled into position by horses back in the early 1900s.

Since then, they’ve enjoyed a stable little spot in between City Cove and Haley Pond, where they’ve managed to expand and add a few more amenities, including the main dining area and bar!

Classic Provisions

This is another family-owned and operated store that also has a breakfast and lunch menu for anyone who wants to take a load off and enjoy the atmosphere of a cozy restaurant.

Everything here is seasonal, and the owners are proud to provide meals made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. And if you like a dish enough, you can always buy the ingredients off the shelves and make it yourself once you get home!

Where To Stay In Rangeley Lake

Rangeley saddleback inn (rangeley).

Just down the road from the above eateries is the Rangeley Saddleback Inn . This warm and welcoming hotel comes with its own indoor saltwater pool, hot tub, fire pits, and barbecue grill. There are also several pet-friendly rooms for anyone traveling with their best good boys and girls!

Rangeley Town & Lake (Rangeley)

⭐️ Rating: 8.3/10 (460 Reviews) Price: $185 per night 📍Location: 2668 Main Street, Rangeley, ME Details: Read more on booking.com now!

Rangeley Town & Lake motel is perfect for those looking for affordable yet comfortable accommodations during their road trip to Maine. Everything about this place says “feel at home”, from the wood-paneled walls to the cozy furnishings and décor.

“The room over looked the lake. There were chairs to sit and visit neighbors on the open walkway. The open field had ducks running around and going to the lake. The bed was comfortable. The room was equipped to allow a longer stay and next time we will.” Gregory (read more reviews)

The view of the lake is also excellent, and the location is within walking distance of everything you might want to see or need!

Road Trip To Maine FAQ

What is the best month to go to maine.

September is the best time to visit Maine. This is because the crowds have left after the Labor day holidays so the touristy locations are not very crowded. Accommodation is also so much cheaper during this time because the demand has dropped considerably.

The weather on the other hand is still great. It hasn’t got chilly yet and you can see the start of the fall foliage before the next season’s crowds head in. In fact, the weather is still warm enough to even head out for a swim if you are in one of the coastal towns of Maine .

What Is The Best Time To Visit Maine For Lobsters?

Lobsters are available all year round in Maine so you really can’t miss them irrespective when you head to this gorgeous state. The largest catches of lobster however are caught between June and December.

How Many Days Do You Require For A Road Trip To Maine?

Honestly, there is just so much to see in Maine. It is hard to just narrow down on a few spots. A 10 -15 day trip however will strike a great balance between seeing a lot of Maine and getting some relaxation done edgewise.

What Is The Cheapest Month To Travel In Maine?

If you want a budget trip and you want good weather, then I highly recommend heading to Maine in the shoulder season which is between mid September and mid October. This avoids the Labor day crowds.

This is the time you will find the lowest rates on travel, accommodation, rentals and tours. So make the best of it!

Map of the Best Road Road Trip to Maine

Additional Resources You’ll Love

• 13 Best Breweries in Portland Maine
• 10 Amazing Scenic Drives in Maine
• 15 Best Things to do in Bar Harbor Maine
• 15 Best Things to do in Boothbay Harbor
• Best Things to do in Portland Maine
• Best New York to Los Angeles Road Trip

Well, there you have it! That just about wraps up my tips for planning an amazing road trip to Maine!

Tell me, did your fave stop on your maine road trip itinerary make the cut if not then let me know in the comments below so i can check it out., and if you found this post helpful, be sure to join our email list and pin this post now so that you can read it again later.

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The Perfect Coastal Maine Road Trip

Laura Itzkowitz is a freelance writer and editor based in Rome. She has been contributing to Travel + Leisure since 2014, when she started as a fact checker before becoming a contributing digital editor in 2015 and going freelance in 2016. She has also held positions as a contributing editor at The Points Guy and the NYC cities editor at DuJour Magazine. In addition to Travel + Leisure , her writing has appeared in Architectural Digest , Surface Magazine , Brooklyn Magazine , T Magazine , The Wall Street Journal , Vogue, GQ, Departures, Afar, Fodor's, Town & Country , Condé Nast Traveler , Robb Report , Hemispheres, and others. When she's not jetsetting around Italy and beyond, she can be found in Rome, enjoying some cacio e pepe or relaxing at home with her husband and two dogs. Originally from the Boston area, Laura moved to New York City in 2011 to pursue a master's degree in creative writing and translation at Columbia University. She also holds a bachelor's degree in French from Smith College. * 10+ years of experience writing and editing * Co-wrote "New York: Hidden Bars & Restaurants," an award-winning guide to New York City's speakeasy scene published by Jonglez Editions in 2015 * Contributed to "Fodor's Brooklyn," published by Penguin Random House in 2015, which won silver in the Lowell Thomas Travel Journalism competition * Contributed an essay to "Epic Hikes of Europe," published by Lonely Planet in 2021 * Updated the 2022 edition of "Fodor's Essential Italy"

Lobster shacks , waves crashing against rocky outcroppings, pine trees, and rugged bluffs— Maine is New England’s crowning gem. And with winding roads overlooking the Atlantic, secluded lighthouses, and charming cities up and down the coast, it's a gem best experienced by car.Here now, the best places to eat, drink, shop, and sightsee between Portland and Bar Harbor.

2 p.m.: Shopping in Portland’s Old Port District

At just over an hour-long flight from New York City or a two-hour drive from Boston, Maine ’s largest metropolis is a great place to start. Take a leisurely walk around the harbor and Old Port, where historic brick buildings house restaurants, bars, and shops. Start by the harbor on Commercial Street and work your way up Exchange Street, which is lined with boutiques selling everything from clothes and jewelry to locally crafted pottery and fudge.

7 p.m.: Dinner at Eventide Oyster Co., Portland

Come for bivalves on the half shell, and stay for Korean-style fried oyster buns. These guys take their shellfish seriously, but not too seriously to play with the conventions of Maine’s regional cuisine. Last year we named Eventide one of America’s best oyster bars and it’s still worth a visit.

9 p.m.: Check in to the Press Hotel, Portland

Spend the night at the quirky new Press Hotel , an Autograph Collection Hotel, which opened in May in the Old Port. Design firm Stonehill & Taylor took inspiration from the building’s heritage as the former home of the Portland Press Herald . You’ll find playful journalism motifs peppered throughout, from the lobby installation made of antique typewriters to the custom wallpaper printed with headlines chosen by the newspaper’s editors. Each of the 110 rooms channels a 1920s writer’s office. Sitting at the vintage-inspired desk, you might feel compelled to send a postcard home.

9 a.m.: Breakfast at the Standard Baking Company, Portland

In the morning, head toward the harbor for pastries at Portland’s must-visit artisanal bakery , which has been using locally grown, organic ingredients in their excellent baked goods for the past twenty years. The croissants, brioche, and morning buns are equally delicious. Grab some sweets to save for later—their financiers and chocolate chip cookies are the best around.

10 a.m.: Portland Head Lighthouse, Cape Elizabeth

Take a slight detour to see the historic lighthouse on Cape Elizabeth, about 20 minutes south of downtown Portland. Abutting flowering fields above a rocky coastline, this classic landmark is Maine’s oldest lighthouse. George Washington commissioned it and the Marquis de Lafayette dedicated it in 1791. The Victorian Keeper’s house now serves as a museum displaying lenses and interactive exhibits.

12:30 p.m.: Archer’s on the Pier, Rockland

Depart Portland and start making your way north to Rockland. After the two-hour drive, you’ll probably be hungry. Snag a waterfront table at Archer’s on the Pier , where you can watch the boats sail by. You can’t go wrong with a classic lobster roll served with hand-cut fries and coleslaw, though chef and owner Lynn Archer is best known for her King of Clubs sandwich made with lobster, bacon, lettuce, and tomato, which won the prize in Bobby Flay’s Throwdown.

2 p.m.: Farnsworth Art Museum, Rockland

Dedicated to showcasing Maine’s role in American art, the must-see Farnsworth Art Museum comprises a modern building, the Wyeth Center, the historic Farnsworth Homestead, the Olson House, and a gallery for young artists. The main building features paintings by Andrew Wyeth, George Bellows, Milton Avery, and Alex Katz, as well as sculptures by Robert Indiana. A whole room of canvases depicting ships at sea and other coastal imagery pays homage to the region and the ways it has inspired artists for centuries. Peruse the galleries in the former church up the street to see works by three generations of Wyeth painters. If you have time, take a tour of the Farnsworth Homestead, which sheds light on its 19th-century inhabitant, Lucy Farnsworth, the museum’s original benefactor.

6 p.m.: Downeast Windjammer Sunset Cruise, Bar Harbor

Drive along scenic route 1 overlooking Penobscot Bay as you continue north toward Bar Harbor. You might be tempted to stop in the boutiques that line the main streets of this seaside city, but make sure to arrive at the pier in time to board the Downeast windjammer ’s sunset cruise. You might be asked to help raise the sails on the four-mast vessel, then enjoy a relaxing ride around picturesque Frenchman’s Bay, which is dotted by forested islands. Bring your own wine or beer and a warm jacket—even in summer, it gets chilly on the water.

8:00 p.m.: Jordan Pond House, Mount Desert Island

Once you’re back on dry land, head into Acadia National Park for dinner at the Jordan Pond House. The only restaurant within the park, this place is renowned for its popovers, which go very well with the lobster stew. Dinner is served inside, but if you’d like to dine outside on the lawn with a view of Jordan Pond and its distinctively sloped hills, come back for lunch or afternoon tea.

9:30 p.m.: Mount Desert Island Ice Cream, Bar Harbor

If you have room for desert—and you definitely should—head back into Bar Harbor for a cone at this creative creamery. Blueberry ice cream may be common in these parts, but Mount Desert Island Ice Cream churns one-of-a-kind flavors you won’t find anywhere else. For something subtle and refreshing, try the basil ice cream, which pairs well with a scoop of fig.

10 p.m.: Asticou Inn, Northeast Harbor

Spend the night at the cozy Asticou Inn on Mount Desert Island. This historic property dates back to 1883 and served as a home away from home for the early 20th-century affluent set that summered in Bar Harbor. The inn’s 48 rooms feature classic décor like floral wallpaper and dainty white curtains and come equipped with free WiFi. In the morning, you can go for a swim in the heated pool or play tennis and enjoy a leisurely brunch of lobster eggs benedict on the terrace.

10 a.m.: Acadia National Park, Mount Desert Island

You could spend days exploring Maine’s only national park , which comprises 35,000 acres of trails, pine-studded mountains with scenic overlooks, and beaches on Mount Desert Island. As soon as you enter this vast, gorgeous landscape, you’ll understand why prominent Americans like John D. Rockefeller Jr. and Brooke Astor vacationed here throughout the 20th century. (Rockefeller built the carriage roads that traverse the park.) Climb (or drive) to the summit of Cadillac Mountain for panoramic views of Frenchman’s Bay. Hike around Jordan Pond and the Bubbles, where the trail leads you along a wooded path and rocky outcroppings on the pond’s perimeter. Don’t miss Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, where waves crash violently against the rocks, and of course, the Bass Harbor Head lighthouse.

4 p.m.: Atlantic Brewing Co., Bar Harbor

Make your way to the northern point of Mount Desert Island for a free tour and tasting at the Atlantic Brewing Company . Set on a ten-acre farm, this excellent craft brewery focuses exclusively on ales. Learn about the brewing process as you stand among the vats of beer, then taste a flight of their classic and seasonal brews, which run the gamut from light and crisp to rich and dark. The blueberry ale has subtle notes of the ubiquitous berry, but the true standouts are the Bar Harbor Real Ale and the Cole Porter.

6 p.m.: Union River Lobster Pot, Ellsworth

Keep heading north for dinner at this no-frills seafood restaurant in nearby Ellsworth. Don’t expect anything fancy, just classic Maine dishes prepared exactly right. Lobsters are boiled in saltwater and served with drawn butter, French fries, coleslaw, and homemade bread. The fisherman’s platter arrives with a generous portion of fried scallops, clams, shrimp, and fish. Wash it down with Atlantic Brewing Company ale and finish with a slice of blueberry pie.

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Getting to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park: By Bus, Plane or Train!

• Bangor International Airport (BGR) : 50 miles from Bar Harbor, this is the closest international airport to Mount Desert Island. It’s typically a little over an hour drive, but be aware that summer traffic may add time to the trip. From here, there are a variety of taxi services, limousines and a bus to Bar Harbor.
• Bar Harbor Airport (BHB) : This smaller airport has connections to/from Boston, and is the closest to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park. Rental car services and taxi services are available.
• Portland International Airport (PWM): If you have interest in exploring southern Maine before traveling up the coast towards Bar Harbor, this could be a good option for you. About 175 miles from Bar Harbor, you can enjoy a scenic drive up from this airport. Alternatively, there are buses from PWM that go to Bangor, where you can then get ground transportation to Bar Harbor.
• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS): The largest airport within a half-day’s drive of Bar Harbor, Logan may be a good choice for international travelers or people wanting to explore Massachusetts before driving up to Maine. Driving from Boston to Bar Harbor is about five hours, 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can easily get to North Station or South Station in Boston (through public transportation or a mobility app), where you can catch the train or bus to Portland (South Station has the bus connection, North Station has the train connection). From Portland, you can take either the bus or train options, listed below, to get to Bar Harbor.
• Concord Coachlines : These comfortable, pristinely clean buses connect Maine, New Hampshire, Boston and Logan Airport. Wherever you’re coming from, you’ll want to take the route to Bangor Transportation Center.
• From the Bangor Transportation Center, you can take the Downeast Transportation bus (five days a week) to get to Bar Harbor (select car services are also available).
• Amtrak Downeaster: A great choice if you want to explore southern Maine, Amtrak has train service from Boston all the way to Portland. Though the train to Portland is typically slower than the bus, it is a scenic route and offers a dining car.
• From Portland, you’ll take the Concord Coachlines bus to Bangor Transportation Center, where the above connecting bus (or select car services) can get you to Bar Harbor.
• Bar Harbor has a variety of transportation options (from ferries to customized land and park tours) that will get you where you need to go, with friendly service and often through a scenic route.
• The Island Explorer , the local and free transportation service to Acadia and Bar Harbor attractions, is returning for its 2022 season on June 23.

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It all starts with a visit...

BEST Portland Maine to Bar Harbor Road Trip Itinerary

We’re going on an EPIC road trip from Portland Maine to Bar Harbor , taking the scenic way along Route 1. The road trip trots past icons like lighthouses and lobsters but also covers some secret stops you won’t find unless you know where to look.

Visiting Maine is as much about the places as it is about the people, and too many visitors miss that facet of the fantastic options on the coastline. To be considered a “Mainer,” residents have generational touchstones and unique information to share.

Sure, you can stop in Kennebunkport with thousands of other tourists, waiting an hour for a lobster roll and staring at the Bush family compound from a distance. That’s a fine way to spend a day while also exploring Dock Square and crowded beaches, but you won’t get the essence of Maine.

Route 1 is a strong thread in the fabric of Maine’s historic tapestry — one that dates back to the 1650s when wagons chugged through dirt and snow. Now, it’s a major north/south thoroughfare that stretches from Fort Kent Maine to Key West Florida.

Of its 527 miles in Maine, we’re going to explore about 160 miles with beaches that will blow your mind and be much less crowded than The Kennebunks .

Maine’s Regions on the Portland to Bar Harbor Road Trip

Maine has various names for its regions. The checkmarks aren’t roadside markers, and many Mainers have had too many locally crafted beers arguing the points. However, here are the coastal boundaries of the towns you’ll be visiting (according to the Maine Office of Tourism):

• Greater Portland & Casco Bay extends from Scarborough to Brunswick and includes the islands in Casco Bay.
• MidCoast Maine  runs from Bath to Winterport.
• Downeast Maine begins at Verona Island and Bucksport and runs all the way to Lubec and Eastport next to the Canadian border.

Traffic Tip for a Route 1 Road Trip

Distance: 163 miles

Drive Time: 3 hours, 15 minutes (without tolls and stopping)

Since most Maine visitors come during summer and fall, we’re going to assume you’re visiting during one of those seasons to make the most of the weather and road conditions.

If you want to avoid the infamous traffic of Route 1, you should visit after Labor Day but before the end of October. Traffic might be frustrating, but when you’re taking a road trip from Portland to Bar Harbor Maine, the slowdowns can nudge you to stop in the nooks and crannies we’re going to explore.

Portland: The Road Trip Begins

Since this is a road trip, we’re going to assume that you’ve already enjoyed the amazing things to do in Portland , but if you want to rest the night before the drive, numerous overnight options await in every Portland neighborhood.

Sunrise at Portland Head Lighthouse

You’ll have to backtrack a little bit here because the Portland Head Lighthouse is actually in Cape Elizabeth , 5 miles south. If you want the epitome of a Maine sunrise, though, this is the place, and it’s easy to get back on the highway afterward.

Diner Car Breakfast

Grab breakfast before hitting the road at Miss Portland Diner , “Portland’s Only Landmark Diner.” Late summer visitors should get something with Maine’s famous wild blueberries. Miss P’s breakfast sandwich also includes Maine maple syrup wrapped in French toast.

Falmouth: The Secrets of Mackworth Island State Park

The sharp turn to get across the causeway to Mackworth Island is a “Blink, and you’ll miss it” street, but look for the signs to the Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. This park surrounds the school.

TIP: Get here early because the small parking lot fills up quickly.

This small island was once owned by the legendary Maine Governor Percival P. Baxter, and he had a summer home here. This man championed a state park bearing his name surrounding Maine’s tallest mountain. However, it was Mackworth Island that stole his heart.

The pet cemetery here honors his faithful companions, a lineage of Irish setters, and a “noble horse.” Despite what some may say, this pet cemetery did not inspire Stephen King’s Pet Sematary. Mr. King explains the real inspiration here.

DID YOU KNOW? In June 1923, Governor Baxter made headlines as he mourned the loss of his dog Garry. He ordered the flags at the statehouse in Augusta Maine to be lowered to half-staff.

The island has a 1.25-mile trail around it with a forest in the middle where you can build a fairy home and see other homes that have been carefully crafted. A Civil War Pier and a “Listening Tree” round out the interesting things to do on this famous piece of land.

Freeport: L.L. Bean’s Hometown

A stop in Freeport is a must on a road trip from Portland to Bar Harbor Maine. Leon Leonwood Bean turned a frustration with wet feet while hunting into a global brand, and the company is still headquartered in Freeport .

If nothing else, get a photo in front of the massive L.L. Bean Boot, but you can also explore four L.L. Bean stores and an outlet store across the street with dozens of additional outlets.

Consider a 1-mile detour to check out the Desert of Maine because isn’t it weird to have just one small desert in an otherwise lush state? Blame the glaciers because you’ll find out when you stop by this eccentric attraction.

Brunswick: Swing By a Historic Bridge

Just 12 miles from Freeport, you can experience the Androscoggin Swinging Bridge , which was built in 1892 to accommodate mill workers walking to work at the nearby mill.

The bridge has some “give” to it (nothing too nauseating) and spans just 300 feet. Fall foliage is especially stunning from this viewpoint.

Bath : All the Time Is Maritime

While Bath’s charm could easily keep you busy the rest of the day, the one must-see here is the Maine Maritime Museum . It just makes sense that this museum stands in the “City of Ships.”

Wooden shipbuilding and lighthouse history reign here with an easy one-hour boat tour of Maine lighthouses and the Bath Iron Works where naval ships of the future are being built.

Afterward, cross over the river to Woolwich and look for the 70-foot-long, 12-foot-tall lobster on the roof of Taste of Maine . Try out a traditional lobster roll , or go for the world’s largest lobster roll to feed a group. Save room for a Wicked Whoopie pie for dessert.

Edgecomb: Find the Fort

If you’re traveling with a military buff, Fort Edgecomb State Historic Site is an easy stop with a blockhouse that pre-dates the War of 1812. You can go inside the blockhouse and look at the scenic views from the musket ports.

The Sheepscot River surrounds the 3-acre park. Informational kiosks explain the important history of the building to “block” enemies from accessing the once robust port of Wiscasset (“wiss-CAH-sit”).

Thomaston: Crafts From Behind Bars

Since 1824, some of the most unique and cherished crafts sold to tourists along Route 1 in Maine have been made by prisoners. The Maine State Prison Industries Program gives those behind bars a job, responsibility, and pride in working for the benefit of the community through the Maine State Prison Showroom .

If the idea of shopping at a store full of prisoner crafts is intimidating, let me remove any doubt — you will be hard-pressed to find this level of quality and craft skills in regular souvenir shops. Plus, the reasonable profits go back to the state to help more prisoners plan healthy paths back into society.

Rockland: For Lighthouse Lovers

Rockland Maine marks the halfway point on our Portland to Bar Harbor road trip, so you can consider spending the night here to enjoy the many things to do in this waterfront town. The top must-see attractions include the Maine Lighthouse Museum and the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse.

You should know that the lighthouse museum is more than just trinkets and scenic structure history. It’s about the purpose of the lighthouse and all the people who risk their lives to save people from the sea. Stories of lighthouse keepers’ families and U.S. Life­Saving Services (precursor to the Coast Guard) fill the space.

“You have to go out, but you don’t have to come back.” Motto of the U.S. LifeSaving Service, 1848 – 1915

Standing proudly since 1899, the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse continues to undergo repairs and regular maintenance. The nearly 1-mile-long breakwater is walkable and the only way to access the lighthouse and tours.

Rockport: See the Famous Seal Statue

Rockport Maine is well known for the story of Andre the Seal. The life-sized bronze statue honors Andre, the friendly harbor seal who resided here each summer from 1961 to 1986, delighting locals and tourists alike with his playful antics. It’s located in Rockport Marine Park, along with the Rockport Lime Kilns — the last of their kind on the Maine coast.

See the “Oreo Cookie Cows”

Maine’s favorite animals are more than lobsters and moose . At Aldermere Farms , you can see the oldest continually operated herd of Belted Galloway cattle (aka Belties) in America.

They are famous for the white belt of fur around their bodies, which gives them the appearance of a sideways Oreo. Kids absolutely love to see the Oreo cows.

The Aldermere Farms Ocean Trail is a short half-mile walk to a beach full of large, smooth rocks.

Camden: Head for the Hills and the Falls

Maine is full of idiosyncrasies, and Camden is an excellent example of that. A hill that isn’t all that high and a waterfall that isn’t all that tall both provide stunning fingerprints to make the community stand out.

You definitely need to stop and appreciate Megunticook Falls because this trademark of Camden might not be here for much longer. Residents pooled together to “Save the Dam” that creates the falls, which run right under the main section of town before cascading into Camden Bay. At Harbor Park, you can walk right up to the edge.

Then there’s Camden Hills State Park with trails from the beachside to the bluffs. Mount Battie is the apex — less than 1,000 feet above sea level but somehow makes you feel like you’re on top of the world.

Also, Camden offers wonderful accommodations if you want to break the road trip into two (or three) days.

Searsport or Stockton Springs: Driver’s Choice

Many Route 1 drivers have longed to ditch the traffic and find respite, and I’ve got two places where you can do just that.

Moose Point State Park in Searsport Maine sits tucked away off the highway, but it offers nearly immediate access to the shoreline with stunning views of Penobscot Bay and much smaller crowds than almost any other beach in the state.

If things had gone according to plan, Fort Point State Park would be much more than a lesser-known 120-acre state park and historic site. It was planned to make Stockton Springs a town to rival Bar Harbor.

Additionally, this land served as the home of Fort Pownall, built in 1759. The lighthouse was built in 1836, and the tower that still stands was designed in 1857.

The only thing you can’t see at Fort Point State Park is the Fort Point Hotel, which was a summer hot spot in 1872. After 26 years, the hotel burned down, and the Maine resort dream went up in flames with it.

The hotel could accommodate up to 200 guests, most of whom were wealthy elite from Boston and New York City who arrived by steamboat. With its posh clientele and state -of-the-art amenities such as running water, gas lights, stables, a bowling alley, and two dance pavilions, the Fort Point Hotel was built in hopes that the Fort Point area would grow to rival Bar Harbor.” Fort Point State Park brochure

Bucksport: The Leg of the Cursed Monument

If you like fantastical legends with no evidence whatsoever, there’s a place you simply have to see in Bucksport. The Buck Memorial rests alongside Route 1 in this town.

Bucksport Maine is named after Colonel Jonathan Buck. He was a righteous man by all historical accounts. He settled the town that bears his name, opening a general store and building the mill industry. After the British burned the town down, he worked to restore it in 1783. He died in 1795.

That’s the end of his story and the beginning of the legend. It centers around a witch being burned at the stake and cursing John Buck.

“Jonathan Buck, listen to these words, the last my tongue will utter. You will soon die. Over your grave they will erect a stone… upon that stone the imprint of my feet will appear, and for all time, long after you and your accursed race have perished from the earth, will the people from far and wide know that you murdered a woman. Remember well, Jonathan Buck, remember well.” The words of a dying witch, allegedly told in the Haverville Gazette in 1899, citing the Philadelphia Enquirer (meaning we have no way of proving if that was actually published, but it is the most commonly accepted story)

Putting aside that, of all the curses possible, a foot on your grave seems rather paltry, you can’t deny that the shape of a leg and foot (much like a witch’s boot) appears on the stone under his name. It’s also why one of the top reasons people search for the town is to find out about The Curse of Bucksport.

WHILE YOU’RE HERE: Visit the Fort Knox Historic Site and Penobscot Narrow Bridge & Observatory

Ellsworth: The Gateway to Downeast

Your Route 1 “leg” of the trip ends in Ellsworth Maine before taking the turn to Bar Harbor. Trust me when I say that you’ll want to stretch your legs before you tackle the traffic of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park .

A great place to do that is the Woodlawn Museum , which includes a historic home filled with thousands of artifacts, trinkets, and treasures. You can walk 2 miles of trails that once served as a racetrack for the prestigious owner. A croquet field rounds out the things to do in this Ellsworth piece of history.

Bar Harbor: Are We There Yet?

TIP: Ellsworth is just 20 miles from Bar Harbor, but the traffic might make you wish you were in regular traffic back on Route 1. Try to time this part of the road trip for early morning or late evening.

You’ve arrived! Bar Harbor is a waterfront town facing Frenchman Bay and the anchor town of Acadia National Park.

Bar Harbor is a blend of incredible natural beauty, a rich past, walkable charm, and coastal culture, making it a quintessential Maine destination with few parallels. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from for dinner and awesome lodging options to rest after your journey.

An Alternate/Faster Road Trip From Portland to Bar Harbor Maine

If you simply enter Portland and Bar Harbor on your GPS, it’s likely going to take you the “fastest” route using I-95. That means you’ll be taking the Maine Turnpike , which is a toll road. This drive will take you through the towns of:

With Augusta being the state capital and Bangor being the former home — and inspiration for the writings of — Stephen King, you can find plenty of scenic stops along the way.

A Boat Trip Between Portland and Bar Harbor Maine

Ferry services no longer run between Portland and Bar Harbor, but you could charter your own boat to take that trip.

On the other hand, you could take a side boat trip along the scenic route laid out above, leaving from Rockland or Lincolnvillve to explore Vinalhaven, North Haven, Islesboro, and Matinicus via the Maine Department of Transportation Ferry .

NOTE: Matinicus cannot be a day trip due to its distance and limited ferry service.

A Maine Road Trip Is Worth It

The transition from Greater Portland & Casco Bay to the more branched-off coastline that leads up Downeast is worth exploring even before you stop in one of the many small towns, roadside attractions, state parks, and historical sites along the way.

No matter which section of road you choose, each Maine town collectively brings its own vibe to earn the state nickname Vacationland.

The VisitMaine.Net team is the small team of authors and editors that research and write our in-depth guides throughout the site and update past articles to make sure they're still super valuable to you. We have one goal: to help you fall more in love with the state of Maine!

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Had bad luck on rt 1 at stockton springs. Truck ran stop sign and tboned us on thr motorcycle. Landed us in eastmaine hospital for 3 weeks. Truck left the scene. Hope others have better luck there.

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15 Stops on a Boston to Bar Harbor Maine Coast Road Trip Itinerary

Lobsters and lighthouses. Charming towns and rocky coasts. The best way to discover the beauty and uniqueness of Vacationland is with a Boston to Bar Harbor road trip along the Maine Coast. I’ve driven this way many times and each time I discover something new. After so many trips to Maine, I put together this one to two-week Maine coast road trip itinerary from Beantown all the way up to Acadia.

If you are traveling from Boston to Bar Harbor, you will want to take at least a week to explore the Maine coast. Of course, you can drive straight through in under five hours, but there is so much to see on the Maine coast.

This Maine coast road trip includes some of my favorite places to go in Maine in the summer , with stops in:

• The Maine beaches region
• Maine’s midcoast including Boothbay Harbor, Rockland, and Camden
• Acadia National Park

After spending a few days around Bar Harbor, you can then take a fast way back home or continue Downeast off the beaten path to the New Brunswick border.

Where to Stop on Coastal Maine Road Trip

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you click a link and make a purchase, I may receive a small commission. All opinions are my own.

Day 1-2: Maine Beaches

The first region you will encounter on your Maine coast road trip will be the Maine Beaches. Of course, if you have even more time, you can always add in stops in Salem , Gloucester , Newburyport, or Portsmouth on your way up to Maine.

With a one-week itinerary, plan on spending at least two nights exploring this region. You can always break up two to three nights between two destinations to really get a sense of the differences between the various towns.

Your first stop in Maine is just across the border in Kittery. Kittery is known for its extensive shopping outlets, some of which you may not find in every outlet mall. But I don’t come to Maine to shop, at least not at brand-name outlets.

My first stop is usually at Bob’s Clam Hut , just north of the Kittery outlets on Route 1. While Bob’s is a popular tourist stop, they actually have some of the best lobster rolls and fried clams around. The lines are long for a reason. And yes, the lines are loonnngg. Don’t be surprised to find the parking lot full and the wait for food an hour long in high season.

On my recent trip, I decided to skip Bob’s and try something new so I went where the locals hang out and tried the quieter Chauncey Creek Lobster Pier. You can watch the lobster boats coming in while eating fresh seafood right on Chauncey Creek. But I’ll be honest with you, I still prefer Bob’s.

For a scenic stop, you can also check out Fort McClary, a historic fort in Kittery Point where you can walk along the battlements and get a view of two lighthouses in the distance. There are picnic grounds here for a scenic lunch.

Fort Foster is another great spot for spending a day outdoors, with excellent views of the entrance to Portsmouth Harbor and Whaleback Light, Portsmouth Harbor Light, and Fort Constitution. But you do need to a pay $20 per car parking fee.

Your next stop in the Maine Beaches, about 15 minutes up the coast, should be York Harbor and the York Beaches. Foodies will want to make a pitstop at the Stonewall Kitchen factory store on Route 1 in York. Here you will find all the delicious Stonewall Kitchen sauces, dressings, and other food products, as well as cooking classes and the culinary school, and a cafe.

York Harbor is a quaint oceanfront area with a few rocky beaches that are connected by the York Cliff Walk. If you are looking to stay overnight in this area, the York Harbor Inn is perfectly located right across from the town park and the entrance to the Cliff Walk . The Stage Neck Inn is another great choice.

The York Beaches, both Long Sands and Short Sands Beach are great for surfing, but the accommodations around the beaches are primarily seaside motels. This is also where you will find a majority of the gift shops, restaurants, and souvenir shops. Nearby you have family attractions like York’s Wild Kingdom, mini golf, and more. If you are looking for a quaint downtown and nice sand beaches, head a little further north to Ogunquit.

Cape Neddick

Before you get to Ogunquit, be sure to stop in Cape Neddick, just five minutes further, at the Nubble Lighthouse . Located on an island just off the coast, this is one of the most photographed lighthouses in Maine. If you are hungry, you can get some fresh lobster at Fox’s Lobster House right next door (bring cash!) or Dunne’s Ice Cream down the street.

From here, follow Shore Road 15 minutes north into Ogunquit. If you are looking to stay in this area and are ready for a splurge, overnight at the luxurious Cliff House Maine .

Ogunquit is very popular with travelers and many of the hotels and motels are not located right on the beach. So if the beach is your priority and you want to stay overnight, be sure to check and see if your accommodations are truly beachfront. The town itself is quaint and upscale, but also touristy. You will find a mix of fine dining options along with your typical tourist clam shacks and seafood restaurants. Ogunquit makes a nice place for a day trip.

We like to stop into Perkins Cove , the small shopping and dining area on the harbor. I’ve eaten at Barnacle Billy’s in Perkins Cove and it was fine, but there are probably better options in the area. In Perkins Cove, you can take in the view of the incoming fishing boats from the Footbridge, or take a 1.25-mile stroll along Marginal Way, past stately inns and rocky beaches.

Kennebunkport

If you haven’t stopped yet, you will want to bed down for your first night in the popular town of Kennebunkport , just another 25 minutes further north. There are many options near downtown Dock Square, but I would recommend a stay at The Inn at English Meadows . This lovely mid-18000’s Greek Revival-style inn is located in Kennebunk’s Lower Village, just a half-mile walk to downtown Dock Square. Perfect for romantic getaways , this bed and breakfast has been tastefully renovated to offer historic charm with modern luxuries such as Frette fine linens, toiletries by Malin+Goetz, and comfortable Vera Wang beds.

There are some accommodations that can fit a family, but families may prefer a resort such as Nonantum Resort , just south of town and on the water, even if not on the beach.

In town, you can enjoy shopping and dining at the many restaurants such as Federal Jack’s, Allison’s, Mabel’s, or the famous Clam Shack. We also like to head out of town to Cape Porpoise Chowder House , which is popular with locals and tourists alike. Just be warned that parking is hard to find so you may need to walk a bit. I’d highly recommend a scenic drive around Cape Arundel, although it will cause some serious house envy!

If you are looking for beach time, Gooch’s Beach is wide and long and great for families, but street parking is limited so get there early. You can also try nearby Goose Rocks Beach or Colony Beach.

Old Orchard Beach

Thirty minutes north of Kennebunkport is another popular beach town. Families love Old Orchard Beach not only because it has a gorgeous, flat, wide beach, but kids also love the rides at Palace Playland and the arcade games at the pier. This section of the Maine beaches feels almost out of place given the rest of the Maine coast, almost as if someone plucked it off the Jersey shore and plopped it in Maine.

My daughter also loves going to Funtown Splashtown , an amusement park/water park, nearby. But if the boardwalk vibe isn’t your jam, you might want to skip over Old Orchard Beach and try Scarborough Beach State Park instead.

Day 3-4: Portland

I would recommend spending one to two nights in the Portland and Casco Bay region, 25 minutes north of Old Orchard Beach. On your way into town, be sure to stop at Portlandhead Light in Cape Elizabeth. It is a great place to scramble on the rocks, walk along the coast, and enjoy those lighthouse views.

We love staying in the Old Port area at the Press Hotel , AC Hotel Portland , Courtyard Marriott, Hilton Garden Inn, or Cambria Old Port. Downtown Portland is a foodie city, with many great restaurants to try. You can also take a tour on the Beer Bus or stop at one of the many breweries nearby. My favorite one to tour and visit is Allagash Brewing Company. For some great lobster with a view, go to Luke’s Lobster on the wharf.

You can hop on a ferry boat and explore some of the islands in Casco Bay, or sign up for a lobster boat tour, where you can learn all about lobstering and help pull up the traps. Best of all, you can eat what you catch! If you don’t want to stay in town, you can also enjoy a car-free couple of nights at the Inn at Diamond Cove on Great Diamond Island.

Read more: weekend in Portland Maine

Freeport (day trip from Portland)

From Portland, you can also take a day trip to Freeport, about 20 minutes north of Portland. Famous for being the headquarters of L.L. Bean , it has become a shopping mecca. In addition to the large company store and L.L. Bean outlet, many other designer outlets and outdoor outfitters have set up shop in town.

You can also stop in for a tasting at Maine Beer Company and sample some of their IPAs. If you are looking for a great lobster roll nearby, head down to the water at Harraseeket Lunch and Lobster Company .

Day 5-6: Maine’s Mid Coast

After your time in Portland, it is time to move on to Maine’s midcoast. This area has miles of coastline, hundreds of islands, and countless charming coves to explore. Picture an open hand pointed down with outstretched fingers and you can imagine the many peninsulas that jut out into Casco Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.

It is good to base yourself in this region for at least two to three nights, broken up between two or more destinations. Although many vacationers might decide to spend a week on Orrs Island and be quite content.

Your mid-coast exploration can start off in the town of Brunswick, a 30-minute drive from Portland, with a walk across the Androscoggin Swinging Bridge . This pedestrian bridge connects Topsham and Brunswick, offering beautiful views of the Androscoggin River. After, take a stroll through downtown Brunswick, home to Bowdoin College.

Harriet Beecher Stowe, the author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin and member of the Underground Railroad, lived and worked in town and her house is now a designated National Historic Landmark. If you need a good lobster roll in this area, head to Cameron’s Lobster House.

From Brunswick, head south on Route 123 to the tip of the peninsula for lunch at Erica’s Seafood . This little hidden gem offers seafood fresh off the boat that you can enjoy at picnic tables overlooking the harbor. From there, turn towards Route 24, which leads down through Sebascodegan Island to the town of Harpswell, Orr’s Island, and Bailey’s Island.

You will get to the end of the line when the road reaches the ocean at Land’s End gift shop. Backtrack a little to the Giant’s Stairs Trail . You can park at the All Saints by-the-Sea Episcopal Chapel and walk along the path that runs parallel to the rocks that make up the Giant’s Stairs. When I went, I was hoping for something more like Giant’s Causeway in Northern Ireland. The rock formations aren’t that unique but it is still a cool view and fun place to explore.

If you have more time in the area, you can spend a day at Reid State Park or Popham Beach, or visit the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath. You may also want to line up for a lobster roll at Red’s Eats in Wiscassett, just don’t make my mistake, be sure to get there before they close! Give yourself about an hour to get from Giant’s Stairs to Boothbay Harbor.

Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor was one of the first places I visited in Maine, over twenty years ago! I was happy to see that it has only gotten better since my last visit, although the good old Tugboat Inn is still there! This time I stayed at the lovely Harborage Inn , which was located right on the water and just a short walk into the center of town.

In town, there are so many cute shops, from Maine Sea Bags to Sherman’s Books, along with other gift shops, galleries, and boutiques. You will also have your choice of restaurants including Mine Oyster, Kaler’s Lobster, Boathouse Bistro, Ports of Italy, and Shannon’s Unshelled.

For lunch, I would recommend eating fresh seafood outside at Boothbay Lobster Wharf . It is across the bay from town but you can easily walk across the pedestrian bridge connecting the two sides of town.

A very popular thing to do in Boothbay Harbor is to take a whale-watching tour. However, since I’ve been whale watching many times, on this trip I opted for a puffin cruise with Cap’n Fish out to a wildlife preserve on Eastern Egg Rock instead. This 2.5-hour cruise passes by lighthouses on the way, with opportunities to see dolphins or even whales.

The boat is large so it can only get so close to the island, however, the puffins often raft up in the water along the shore so you are bound to see plenty of puffins. Just bring along some good binoculars or a super zoom lens because puffins are small and you won’t get to see their cute, colorful beaks without a little assistance.

Read more: things to do in Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Damariscotta

From Boothbay Harbor, it is only 15 minutes over to Glidden Point Oyster Farm on the Damariscotta River. I was hoping to take a oysters and wine-tasting cruise with Damariscotta River Cruises , but unfortunately, they weren’t running on the day I was in town. So an oyster farm tour seemed like the next best thing!

Eighty percent of Maine’s oysters are farmed in the Damariscotta River! My tour at Glidden Point Oyster Farm explained why the river was the perfect spot for oysters and its history that goes back thousands of years to pre-Colonial times. After learning about the farming process, I stepped up to the window to order some oysters to taste on their outdoor patio. I even learned to shuck an oyster! And I was thrilled to learn that Glidden Point ships nationwide.

If you have more time to stay in the area or prefer a quieter town versus Boothbay Harbor, Damariscotta has a very cute but small downtown. Stop into the Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shop and Sheepscot River Pottery. You can also visit the Whaleback Shell Midden State Historic Site.

You can stay at the Newcastle Inn and have dinner at King Eider’s Pub or Newcastle Publick House. Locals love Shuck Station Raw Bar and if you want to head a little out of town for some beer tasting, stop into Oxbow Brewing Company at their rural farmhouse brewery.

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse

From Damariscotta, it is a 20-minute drive down to the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse , which can be a great spot for sunset. Of course, when I went it clouded up so I didn’t stick around that long, but that’s ok because I was able to get to my next stop in Rockland a little early.

From Bristol, it is an hour’s drive to Rockland. I took Route 32 through Bremen and it worked out perfectly when I came across a park with fields of beautiful purple and pink lupines stretching down to the water. If you have time, also stop at the Marshall Point Lighthouse (you may have seen this in Forest Gump.)

Rockland is the Art Capital of Maine, a bustling town with art museums, galleries, shops, and restaurants on a working waterfront. It is also a port for Maine Windjammer ships and even small-ship cruises, so it attracts its share of day trippers as well.

It is certainly a larger and more touristy town than many of the others along the Maine coast, but I loved it and returned recently to spend some time before my Maine Windjammer Cruise on the Schooner Heritage.

Make time to visit either the Farnsworth Art Museum , which celebrates Maine’s role in American art, or the Contemporary Arts Museum downtown. If it is open, you can also stop into the Project Puffin Visitor Center to learn about all things puffin. It is a fun town to explore, check out the many murals and public art, and shop at the many boutiques (my favorite was Barefoot in Denim !)

There are so many great spots to eat in town. I had an amazing dinner at Primo, a farm-to-table Italian restaurant just a short drive from downtown. I’d also recommend Rock City Coffee and Rock Harbor Brewing.

If you have time, just south of town follow signs for the breakwater. It is about a mile walk out along the breakwater to the lighthouse at the end, but it is a fun outing on a nice day. Another day trip option is to take a ferry to Vinalhaven, which is known for its beautiful scenery, rocky coast, and granite quarries.

The best place to stay in Rockland is 250 Main Hotel . This modern, art-forward hotel has a rooftop deck overlooking the waterfront and spacious rooms.

Read more: things to do in Rockland , Maine

A 15-minute drive from Rockland, Camden is another popular town on Maine’s midcoast. There are excellent views of the Camden harbor front from the Camden Public Library, and the lawn is a great spot to enjoy a picnic or relax and soak up the view.

Downtown there are many shops and restaurants, such as The Waterfront Restaurant, Peter Otts, and Fresh and Go. If you would rather stay in Camden instead of Rockland, the Lord Camden Inn is right in the center of everything, while the Camden Maine Stay Inn will be a bit quieter and laid back.

Outside of downtown, you can enjoy scenic views from the top of Mt. Battie in Camden Hills State Park. Also, try hiking along Maiden’s Cliff or the Megunticook Ocean Lookout Trail. Unfortunately, during my visit the fog rolled in and I could barely see to drive through that area, let alone take in a scenic view.

Before you get to Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island, you may also want to stop at the Penobscot Narrows Bridge & Observatory or visit Fort Knox State Park. That was my plan too but with the fog, it wasn’t worth it.

Day 7-8: Bar Harbor

Camden to Bar Harbor is about an hour and forty-minute drive, although you may want to stop in Ellsworth before arriving on Mount Desert Island, for a beer tasting at Fogtown Brewing Company. Instead of staying in the town of Bar Harbor, I chose to stay at Terramor Outdoor Resort about 15 minutes from Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor.

If glamping isn’t your thing, you may want to opt for the luxurious Claremont Hotel in Southwest Harbor or the charming Salt Cottages overlooking Hulls Cove. Of course if you are going all the way to Bar Harbor, you will want to spend some time downtown and walking along the Shore Path along Frenchman’s Bay. From town you can also take a whale watching cruise. Bar Harbor is also a fun town for shopping and restaurants.

If you are visiting Acadia National Park in the summer, be prepared for crowds and make reservations if you want to drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain for sunrise. (You could try this Acadia National Park sunrise hike instead!) To avoid crowds, also check out these things to do near Acadia .

A Maine coast road trip should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is hard to get tired of seeing fishing boats bobbing in a harbor, lighthouses standing tall over rocky coasts, and eating endless amounts of lobster and seafood. Hopefully, this itinerary makes it easier to plan your trip!

Read More Maine Articles

• Best places to go in Maine in the summer
• Things to do in Portland in the winter
• 7 Must-Try Outdoor Adventures in the Maine Highlands
• Maine Highlands Road Trip
• Maine Road Trip Itinerary

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Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: March 23, 2024

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Boston to Bar Harbor Maine Road Trip (6 Days)

We recently decided to tackle the unforgettable journey along the stunning Maine coast on a Boston to Bar Harbor Maine road trip. It was one of the best road trips we’ve been on in a long time. This 300-mile adventure takes you through charming towns, along rocky coasts, and past picturesque lighthouses. It’s gorgeous, it’s laid back, and it’s a perfect summer road trip.

While the whole drive takes only five hours, you can make it as quick or as slow as you want by blowing past or stopping by as many attractions and towns as you like. Our full trip was 6 days in length and had us indulging in fresh lobster, walking through small towns, and taking in the stunning views of Acadia National Park.

» Looking for a trip that is a bit shorter? Try this Boston to Portland Maine Road Trip .

I guarantee this epic Boston to Bar Harbor adventure will be a memorable one. All you need is your car, online maps, and a sense of adventure. Let the road take you where it will and enjoy!

Table of Contents

Planning Your Route

When we started planning our Boston to Bar Harbor road trip, we realized there are several routes you can take, each with its own attractions and scenic drives.

Route 1 is a popular option for those looking to take a scenic drive along the coast. It passes through several charming coastal towns, including Portsmouth, Ogunquit, and Kennebunkport. The drive takes about 5 hours without any stops.

This is the route we took to get up to Bar Harbor. We stayed in Boston the first night, Portland the second night, Belfast the third night, and Bar Harbor the last night.

On the way back, we took I-95, because we just needed to get back to Boston for our flights home.

This is the faster route. It’s a straight shot from Boston to Bar Harbor, taking about 4 hours without stops. Note that while this route is faster, it’s not as scenic as Route 1, and you won’t go through any of the cute towns that make this road trip so special. So I would avoid this route, unless you’re in a hurry, but then why are you calling it a road trip?

Route 3 is another scenic option that takes you through the White Mountains of New Hampshire and into Maine. It’s a longer route, taking about 6 hours without stops, but it offers some stunning views of the mountain range.

6-Day Road Trip Itinerary

Boston, massachusetts (day 1).

After arriving in Boston, Massachusetts , you can jump directly into the first day of your road trip or spend the night getting a fresh start the next morning. So drop off your bags at the hotel and explore Beantown (as it’s locally known). 

In a city defined by a rich history and vibrant sports culture, classic sports bars meet a thriving theatre scene around every corner. While there’s no way to see the best of Boston in one day, you can include these highlights on your first day:

• Walk the Freedom Trail past some of the most important sites that shaped the American Revolution
• Explore the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museums
• Head to the Italian cuisine-filled North End of Boston for either lunch or dinner
• Grab a few snapshots of America’s most photographed street, Acorn Street
• Visit the Boston Library and marvel at its exquisite architecture

Where to stay: The Newbury Boston

Salem to Portland, Maine (Day 2)

Your second day involves the first stretch of road to tackle. Heading north on I-93/I-95. It’ll take about 35 minutes to reach Salem.

Infamously known for being the site of the Salem witch trials of 1962, the town is a global epicenter for everything occult. Here are some spots you shouldn’t skip:

• The Salem Witch Museum
• Salem Witch Trials Memorial
• The House of the Seven Gables

Portsmouth, NH

When you’re done exploring spooky Salem, take I-95 or Route 1 north to Portsmouth, New Hampshire. This is a cute little town that deserves a lunch-time stop. It takes about an hour to get there from Salem.

We walked around the town and waterfront for about 30 minutes before heading to lunch. Here are a few shops we enjoyed in Market Square on Congress Street:

• G. Willikers Toy Shop
• Diversions Puzzles & Games
• Sea Love Portsmouth
• The Spice & Tea Exchange

We went to Geno’s Chowder & Sandwich Shop for lunch. This is a great place to go in the summer, but it’s closed through the fall and winter. If you need an alternative, go to Row 34 .

After leaving Portsmouth, if you go up Route 1, you can dip off the road on 1A to see the Nubble Lighthouse.

Nubble Lighthouse

Perched on a rocky islet off the coast of York, Maine, the Nubble Lighthouse serves as a sentinel guarding both history and stunning vistas. Built in 1879, this iconic lighthouse stands against the dramatic backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Just note that you’re only going to capture it through your camera lens or simply soak in the view, because no one is allowed on the island. All you can do here is park and gawk.

Next, head back up to I-95 or Route 1 to Ogunquit. We loved this little town, however bad the traffic was to get through it. You can park in a side-street lot and walk to the center of town (it’s very small).

Stop in a few shops, like Revelations Gift Shop, Cricket’s Corner, and Sea Bags. Grab a coffee at OGT Beanery or an ice cream at Sweet Pea’s Ice Cream. Then take a walk down Wharf Lane to where you can see the popular Main Beach across the water. If you have time, you should definitely plan to spend a little time on the beach. There’s a great shallow bar and inlet that you can swim in.

After Ogunquit, you can head up to Portland on I-95 or continue along Route 1, which will take you through Kennebunk, or if you branch off on State Route 9, you’ll go into Kennebunkport.

Kennebunkport, Maine

We really enjoyed Kennebunkport. It’s one of the most quintessential New England towns with its historic architecture, scenic coastline, and vibrant arts scene.

The town is well-known for its maritime heritage, which you can explore through boat tours and the bustling Dock Square. Beyond the obvious, the town surprises you with hidden coves and tranquil beaches, making it more than just another tourist spot on the map.

However, there are a lot of tourist shops to pop into like the Lobstore, Beach Grass, and Copper Candle, and Good Earth. All very cute. If you’re getting hungry, grab a lobster roll at the Clam Shack (which is closed during the off season).

For a drink, we really enjoyed Batson River Brewing & Distilling, which has a lovely outdoor area as well as inside space in the house, and a huge upper balcony.

Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach is a popular coastal destination you can stop at on the way to Portland that has a lot of seaside charm.

One of the main attractions in Old Orchard Beach is its beautiful beach. The beach is over seven miles long and offers plenty of space for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. You can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas, as well as bicycles, to explore with.

Another popular attraction in Old Orchard Beach is the classic boardwalk. The boardwalk is lined with shops, restaurants, and amusement park rides, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening. Speaking of amusement park rides, Old Orchard Beach has the last surviving beachfront amusement park in New England. There are arcade games, a Ferris wheel, and of course plenty of iconic Maine lobster rolls.

Be aware that parking is atrocious here. You’ll pay at least $20-30 to park in one of the lots. We found no street parking.

Portland, Maine (Day 3)

Similar to its west coast counterpart in Oregon , Portland, Maine, is a city with a bustling passion for the arts, the outdoors, and local microbrews. Arriving in the city, you can leave your bags at your hotel and set out for a taste of Portland.

Some of the top things to see and do while you’re in town include:

• Visit Fort Williams Park and the Portland Head Light
• Do a brewery tour of Portland to visit some local craft breweries (we also did our own walking tour of the breweries (there are a ton in East Port)
• Shop the local boutiques and specialty shops of Old Port
• Grab a sunset view along the Eastern Promenade

Tours to look out for while you’re in Portland:

• Old Port Culinary Walking Tour
• Cusco Bay Sea Kayaking Tour
• A Walk Through Time Tour in Portland 

East Port is known for it’s great food and drinks, and is the perfect place to stop for refreshments. There are several distilleries and breweries to choose from.

Hardshore Distilling Company was our favorite. We enjoyed a tasting of a few of their gins. We happily grabbed a cocktail and some duck fat frites from the frites shack next door and sat out on the patio. The perfect way to spend a summer evening in Maine.

Where to stay: Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

Portland to Belfast (Day 4)

You can drive straight from Portland to Bar Harbor if you’re in a hurry to get there, but we wanted to take one extra day to hit up all the fun little stops between the two. For this reason, we decided to stop over for the night in Belfast, which I think was a great idea because there were lots of fun things to do there. Mind you, there are not a lot of great places to stay in Belfast, so if you want a higher-end hotel you’ll have to go on to Bar Harbor for that.

Here are the stops I suggest making on the way:

• Brunswick – Sea Dog Brewing Co opens at 11am, located on the waterfront, a must-try while in Maine. Try the Blueberry beer.
• Wiscasset – Red’s Eats is an iconic lobster stand with a HUGE line at all times. We actually ate across the street at Sprague’s, which had more seating and a shorter line. The crab roll was amazing.
• Waldoboro – Odd Alewives Farm Brewery. If it’s time for a beer, try this place that makes Maine farmhouse ales.
• Rockland – Maine Lighthouse Museum  
• Owls Head State Park – With its historic lighthouse, rocky coastline, and dense woodlands, the park delivers a dose of New England’s natural beauty and maritime heritage.
• Camden – Bald Mountain is the fifth highest peak on the eastern seaboard (beautiful views from the top), Barren’s Brewery & Distillery (great place to grab a drink right on the water).
• Belfast – Young’s Lobster Pound (fun place to eat)
• Belfast – Marshall Wharf Brewing Co – fantastic beer list, fun locations and good live music.

Where to Stay: Fireside Inn & Suites

Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park, Maine (Day 5-6)

This part of the trip is likely what you’ve been looking forward to the most. Acadia is consistently one of the most-visited national parks in the United States. It receives around 3.4 million visitors per year. When planning your trip, you’ll want to tack on as many days here as you want for exploring, hiking, and other activities. I would recommend spending at least 2 full days in Bar Harbor (more if possible).

Acadia National Park

Start your day with an hour and a half drive to Bar Harbor. Along the route, you’ll pass through a few towns worth a stop. After dropping off your belongings at your overnight spot in Bar Harbor, it’s time to head into Acadia National Park.

On Maine’s largest island, Mount Desert Island, the 47,000-acre park boasts imposing mountains, picturesque lakes, and endless miles of hiking trails.

An entrance pass is required for all visitors. It’s $35. You can also use your America the Beautiful annual pass, if you have one. Vehicle reservations are also required for Cadillac Mountain. You can’t go up there without a reservation. Make it well in advance during peak times to make sure you get the time you want.

The top three things to add to your Acadia itinerary include:

• Hiking to the summit of Cadillac Mountain
• Kayaking on Swan Lake
• Biking or driving the Park Loop Road

Where to stay: Atlantic Oceanside Hotel or Holiday Inn Bar Harbor

Acadia NP is one of the main reasons people visit Bar Harbor, but that doesn’t mean you should skip Bar Harbor itself. It’s a small town that has a lot to offer. It can, however, get really crowded in the summer, so getting in and out of town in a car can be very tedious. Take a taxi or hotel shuttle bus, if you can.

The town’s quaint streets are lined with unique shops and eateries, inviting you to explore local flavors and crafts. One of the fun things to do is take a scenic cruise around Bar Harbor. Many of the restaurants are touristy, but still good. We ate at Geddy’s (decent) and CIAO food|drink (outstanding).

There are also a few breweries that we checked out: Atlantic Brewing Midtown and Fogtown.

Returning to Boston

After exploring the stunning coast of Maine, it’s time to head back to Boston. You may be feeling a bit tired after all the driving and sightseeing, but keep in mind that it’s an almost 5-hour drive back to Boston. You’ll likely have to get up early and hit the road in order to get back for your flight.

We took I-95 on the way back because it’s the fastest route.

How long does it take to drive from Boston to Bar Harbor?

The driving time from Boston to Bar Harbor is approximately 4-5 hours, depending on traffic and any stops you make along the way. The route takes you through scenic coastal Maine, so you may want to allow extra time for sightseeing and exploring the quaint towns along the way.

What is the distance between Boston and Bar Harbor?

The distance between Boston and Bar Harbor is approximately 280 miles. The route takes you through New Hampshire and along the Maine coast, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and charming coastal towns.

Are there any ferries from Boston to Bar Harbor?

There are no direct ferries from Boston to Bar Harbor, but you can take a ferry from Portland, Maine to Bar Harbor. The ferry ride takes approximately 3 hours and offers stunning views of the Maine coastline. Alternatively, you can drive from Boston to Bar Harbor or take a bus or train to nearby towns and then rent a car to drive to Bar Harbor.

How many days should I spend in Bar Harbor on a road trip from Boston?

The ideal length of time to spend in Bar Harbor on a road trip from Boston depends on your interests and schedule. If you want to explore Acadia National Park and the surrounding area, you should plan to spend at least 2-3 days in Bar Harbor. This will give you enough time to hike, bike, kayak, and explore the charming town of Bar Harbor. If you are short on time, you can still enjoy the highlights of the area in a day trip from Boston, but you will miss out on some of the more scenic and remote areas of the park.

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

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Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

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11 Things To Do In Bar Harbor Maine

B ar Harbor is one of the prettiest places in the United States, and should definitely be on every traveler’s bucket list. Not only is the town absolutely adorable, there are also tons of things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine , as well as in the gorgeous Acadia National Park , which sits right next door. 

If you’re planning an east coast road trip and plan to stop in Bar Harbor or just want to visit this awesome town, you might be a little overwhelmed trying to decide what to see and do. Lucky for you, we’re here to help. Below, we’ve put together a list of our favorite things to do, as well as some of the best places to eat and stay while you’re there.

Using this list, you will be able to plan the ultimate trip to Bar Harbor, Maine. If you have time to explore more of Maine – which we do recommend – be sure to check out this awesome post to help you plan your Maine Coast Road Trip .

Things to Do

As mentioned above, there are tons of amazing things to do in and around Bar Harbor. One of the very best things to do is visiting Acadia National Park , where you’ll find plenty of hiking trails, biking paths, and other outdoor activities. That said, while this is one of our favorite national parks and is one of our favorite things to check out in the area, it is far from the only thing to see.

Check out the list below to learn about our favorite things to do in both Acadia and Bar Harbor proper. This should help you decide which options you want to take advantage of during your Bar Harbor getaway. 

Acadia National Park: Mount Desert Island Area

The most popular part of Acadia National Park , the Mount Desert Island area has all kinds of amazing things to see and do. We recommend driving Park Loop Road so you can take in the views at the various pull-offs. 

Driving up Cadillac Mountain is a must-do that should be added to your list. You might also want to consider hiking the thrilling Beehive Trail and the slightly terrifying Precipices Trail, stopping to watch waves crash through a rock tunnel at Thunder Hole, biking along the carriage roads, spending an afternoon at Sand Beach, and enjoying a meal at Jordan House. 

• Sometimes a permit is required to drive up Cadillac Mountain. Find out if you need to obtain one before you go. 
• Jordan House is known for its delectable popovers. Be sure to order some if you make it there. 
• You have a much better chance of getting a table at Jordan House if you arrive before 4pm . Plan accordingly. 
• Arrive at Thunder Hole at high tide in order to get the full effect. 

Acadia National Park: The Quiet Side

As the name suggests, the Quiet Side of Acadia is much quieter and less busy. There aren’t nearly as many things to do on this side, but the scenic drive it offers takes you through a number of tiny towns and pretty places, making it worth visiting if you have the time. 

While you’re on the Quiet Side of the park, you might want to consider visiting Echo Lake Beach, where you can go for a swim. Other things to do include checking out the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and walking the easy Wonderland Trail. 

• You will probably have to wait for parking in the small lot that is for the lighthouse. It is worth the wait.

Acadia National Park: Schoodic Peninsula

There is also the Schoodic Peninsula. Like the Quiet Side, this area is less busy than the Mount Desert Area. This is likely because although it is only four miles across the water from the main part of the park, it’s an hour-long drive to get there. Nevertheless, we recommend visiting the peninsula if you have time, as it is a lovely and secluded place. 

Start your visit to this area at the Schoodic Institute and Ranger Station. We find that national park visitor centers are always great for getting an idea of where to go next. Other awesome places to do in this part of the park include seeing the gorgeous Schoodic Point, walking to Little Moose Island, and finding starfish at Tidal Falls. 

• Be sure to visit Schoodic Point at high tide for the most dramatic waves. 
• If you want to see starfish at Tidal Falls and walk to Little Moose Island, visits to both places need to be timed to be at low tide. 

Acadia National Park: Bar Island

Did you know you can walk to an island within Acadia National Park? You can! During low tide, there is a land bridge that can be used to take a stroll over to Bar Island, one of the five Porcupine Islands and the only one you can walk to. From there, you can explore the many trails on the island and enjoy the beauty of nature. 

Of course, you will want to make sure you can get to the island and back again . Be sure to check the tide schedule beforehand and go in knowing that the land bridge is only usable for 1.5 hours before and after low tide. Also, it’s good to know that there are no services on the island, so arrive prepared. 

For more information on things to do in Acadia National Park, be sure to check out this post . 

Morning is one of the best times of day in Bar Harbor, and a stroll along the historic Shore Path is one of the best ways to enjoy those morning hours. This coastal trail is lovely, offering plenty of beautiful views of quintessential New England-style homes, the ocean, small islands, and even lighthouses. 

The path begins near the beautiful Agamont Park at the Town’s Ellis Pier. It passes the historic Bar Harbor Inn as well as some lovely beaches that are perfect for sitting on as you enjoy the sunrise over the water. 

LuLu Lobster Boat Tour

Boat tours are hugely popular in Bar Harbor, and for good reason. Some of the best tours in the area are offered by the LuLu Lobster Boat Tour Company .

This company takes guests out on an actual lobster boat. The tour leaves from Bar Harbor, is a full two hours long, and circles the Egg Rock Lighthouse. Riders are given an enormous amount of information about lobsters and lobster fishing, and are even given an opportunity to hold lobsters that are brought up in traps. 

• If you have kids, ask if they might be allowed to drive the boat. Sometimes the tour guides do allow this. 
• Take a jacket. Even if it isn’t cold on land, there’s a good chance it’ll be chilly out on the water. 
• Check out our Acadia National Park Itinerary here.

Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company Whale Watching Tour

Whale watching is one of the very best things to do in Bar Harbor. Whale sightings are extremely common, and the variety of whales found in these waters is astounding. You can definitely see whales from the shore, but the best way to get as close as possible to these magnificent creatures is to head out on a whale watching tour. 

For a whale watching boat tour, we recommend going with the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Company . This company has been around for many years and offers a number of quality tours throughout the summer months. 

• This is another adventure you will want to carry a jacket for. We’ve found that even mid-summer tours can be a bit cool. 

Abbe Museum

Looking for something to do indoors on a rainy day? The Abbe Museum might be just the thing. This museum is dedicated to sharing information on the history and culture of the Wabanaki Native American tribe. 

The museum has two locations: one in Bar Harbor and a second inside of Acadia National Park. It features a huge collection of artifacts including arrows, spearheads, harpoons, combs, and even a 2,000-year-old flute!

Village Green

Located in the center of downtown Bar Harbor, Village Green is a communal gathering space that really brings Bar Harbor together. The creation of this park-like space began in 1899 when the bandstand was built. Since then, many more structures have been added, including a stone wall and bench memorial, a cast iron clock, an antique Italian fountain, and more. 

While in the Village Green, you can stroll along the many pathways, admire the flowerbeds, and relax on the granite seat wall. 

• Check the schedule of events before you go. You never know when a performance or festival might be happening on the green. 

George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History

Hoping to learn a bit about the wildlife in the Bar Harbor area? The George B. Dorr Museum is the perfect place to do just that. This wonderful museum is chock-full of engaging interactive exhibits, as well as lovely displays that allow guests to get a better understanding of Maine’s ecosystems and wildlife. 

We especially love the large touch pool that is filled with creatures such as hermit crabs, sea snails, and sea stars. The educational programs and nature walks are also awesome and help make learning a fun experience for all ages. 

• Admission is donation based, so this can absolutely be an inexpensive outing. However, you should be prepared to donate something. 

Diver Ed’s Dive-In Theater

A unique attraction, Diver Ed’s Dive-In Theater provides an experience you will never forget.

Guests start their adventure by boarding a boat which is taken out onto Frenchman Bay. There, Diver Ed and his sidekick “Mini-Ed” dive underwater with special video and sound equipment. Everything they see and hear is recorded by their equipment and projected in real time onto the boat above them. This allows guests to have a diving experience without ever leaving the boat. 

The divers also return to the boat with various sea creatures. Riders are allowed to touch the creatures before they are returned to their ocean habitat. 

Where to Eat

With so much to do, you’re definitely going to get pretty hungry during your stay in Bar Harbor. Fortunately, there are a number of fabulous local eateries in the town. These include adorable cafes, family-friendly seafood shacks, upscale restaurants, and even local breweries. There’s no way anyone is going to go hungry while in Bar Harbor. 

In order to help you decide where to eat during your time in the area, we’ve compiled a list of our favorite restaurants and other food stops so you can go out to eat with confidence. 

Side Street Cafe

As you might’ve guessed, the Side Street Cafe is located off of one of the smaller side roads in town. Because of this, it is a lesser known eatery, meaning getting a table here may be easier. A huge portion of the menu includes seafood, and it is absolutely delicious. Another fantastic thing served here? The seasonal Apple Cider Margarita. 

Happy Clam Shack

Unlike Side Street Cafe, Happy Clam Shack almost always has a line out the door. The restaurant is located about 15 minutes outside of town, but it’s 100% worth the drive and the wait to get in. They have fresh lobster waiting in a tank, which they cook for you when you order it.

Other options include lobster rolls, clam chowder, and lobster bisque. You can choose to eat your lobster at a picnic table outside or take it to go. 

Atlantic Brewing Company

Are you an ale person? If so, you simply must go to the Atlantic Brewing Company . Here you can visit the tasting room to taste the various ales made onsite and eat at the onsite restaurant, Mainely Meat BBQ. The whole experience is fantastic and a great way to experience local food and drink. 

Where to Stay

Last but not least, we need to talk about places to stay. From quaint cottages and rustic campgrounds to luxury hotels, there are plenty of options when it comes to lodging in Bar Harbor. The trouble is, there are so many options that choosing can be a bit difficult. 

Fortunately, we’ve done a lot of the legwork for you. The list below contains our top three places to stay in the Bar Harbor area. Choose from this list and we are confident you will be happy with your pick. 

Shannon Cottage

An absolutely adorable cottage in an incredible location, Shannon Cottage is the ideal vacation getaway. It boasts three bedrooms, so there is plenty of room for the whole family, and the wrap-around deck is the perfect place to sit and relax after a long day of exploring.  

Charming Bar Harbor Home

This amazing 3- bedroom 2 bath Charming Home is located in a quiet neighborhood in Bar Harbor. Acadia National Park is just a short 5-minute drive away. This house is perfect for your family vacation.

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel

Historic, iconic, and luxurious, the Bar Harbor Grand Hotel is the ideal place to unwind on your Bar Harbor vacation. The hotel features well-appointed rooms, a fitness center, a pool, and a hot tub. The location is fabulous, and the hotel is in Central Bar Harbor. 

The Inn on Mount Desert

This gorgeous inn is located just one mile from Acadia National Park, with shops and restaurants within just a 5-minute walk. The Inn on Mount Desert offers a great complimentary breakfast each morning.

Hadley’s Point Campground

Prefer a more natural setting? Staying at Hadley’s Point Campground in your RV or tent might be the perfect pick for you. The campground is lovely, offering amenities like sports courts and a pool and playground. It’s also a nice, quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Timberland Acres RV Park

This beautiful Timberland Acres RV park is situated just 14 miles from the entrance to Acadia National Park. This great Campground offers wonderful family-friendly amenities like a playground, horseshoes, hiking, and even an arcade.

More Family Fun in Bar Harbor Maine

Experience the taste of Maine on this Culinary Walking Tour with Tastings . Enjoy a various array of local foods on this great 3-hour tour.

Take a walk through history on this great 2 hour Historical Guided Tour . Discover the history of Maine through the gilded age with a knowledgeable guide.

Explore the beauty of Acadia National Park with this Self Guided Driving Tour . Learn about gorgeous hidden areas of the park.

Enjoy delicious tea and popovers at the Jordan Pond House at the Acadia National Park.

As you can see, there are tons of incredible things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine. Not only that, there are also lots of delicious places to eat and welcoming places to stay. This means you are certain to have a wonderful time during your visit to this lovely town as well as the nearby Acadia National Park. Why not start putting together your trip itinerary today?

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Buffalo to Bar Harbor drive

Buffalo to bar harbor road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Buffalo to Bar Harbor. If you're planning a road trip to Bar Harbor, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

9:00 am  start in Buffalo drive for about 1 hour

10:13 am   Rochester (New York) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:13 am drive for about 1.5 hours

12:34 pm   Syracuse (New York) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:34 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

3:11 pm   Cooperstown (New York) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 4:11 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

5:43 pm   Albany (New York) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 6:43 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 7.5 hours find more stops

9:00 am  leave from Springfield (Massachusetts) drive for about 2 hours

10:51 am   Salem (Massachusetts) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 11:51 am drive for about 1.5 hours

1:24 pm   Portland (Maine) stay for about 1.5 hours and leave at 2:54 pm drive for about 2 hours

4:48 pm   Bangor stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:48 pm drive for about 1 hour

7:02 pm  arrive in Bar Harbor

day 2 driving ≈ 6.5 hours find more stops

Where should I stop along the way?

Rochester (New York)   (13 answers)     Eastman School of Music   (2 mentions)     restaurants around Rochester (New York):         The Revelry     questions about Rochester (New York):         Best free things to do in Rochester (New York)?         Newer restaurants, bars, and things to see Syracuse (New York)   (22 answers)     questions about Syracuse (New York):         What is one attraction to see? Famous place to eat at? Cooperstown (New York)   (12 answers) Albany (New York)   (19 answers)     questions about Albany (New York):         Leaving Albany, NY for 6 days, north or south? Springfield (Massachusetts)   (5 answers)     questions about Springfield (Massachusetts):         Best free things to do in Springfield (Massachusetts)? Salem (Massachusetts)   (26 answers)     Salem Witch Museum   (2 mentions)     The House of the Seven Gables   (2 mentions)     questions about Salem (Massachusetts):         What is your favorite restaurant in Salem (Massachusetts)?         witch         What is a good nighttime tour Portland (Maine)   (70 answers)     Portland Head Light   (2 mentions)     restaurants around Portland (Maine):         Duckfat         Standard Baking Co         Bao Bao Dumpling House         Fore Street         Eventide Oyster Co.     questions about Portland (Maine):         Good restaurants in Portland         Best places to eat in Portland, ME         Things to do and good restaurants in Portland, ME         Best Breakfast spots in Portland, Maine? Bangor   (8 answers)     questions about Bangor:         What is your favorite restaurant in Bangor (Maine)?

What are some things to do in Bar Harbor?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

These are some of the places people talk about on Trippy:

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

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Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Bar Harbor to Buffalo drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Buffalo to Bar Harbor . Or get a full Buffalo to Bar Harbor flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Buffalo well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Buffalo!

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Lake George or Lake Placid? Your Ultimate Comparative Guide

• Across Opal
• Top Activities
• Lake Placid Lodge
• The Sagamore Resort
• New York Adirondacks

If you were to ask a native New Yorker about the best Adirondack vacation destinations, the locations of “Lake George” and “Lake Placid” are usually said in the same breath. But that certainly doesn’t mean they are exact carbon copies of each other.

Both are located in the breathtaking six-million-acre expanse of New York’s Adirondack Park . Both are based beside some of the Northeast’s most stunning bodies of water. And both offer plenty of attractions, from outdoor recreation to picturesque downtowns brimming with shops, eateries, and cultural attractions. That’s why it’s only natural to feel torn between the two destinations of Lake George and Lake Placid when considering your next Adirondack getaway . Still, there are plenty of nuances between the two. Consider this your guide to determining which lakeside outpost should be the landing place for your next Adirondack vacation.

The 2024 Adirondack Summer Season is Here!

Location & accessibility.

How to Get to Lake George?

Nestled in the southern Adirondack Mountains of upstate New York (four hours north of New York City), the greater region of Lake George is easily accessible by car with Interstate 87 running parallel to the lake, allowing for convenient access for visitors coming from either the north or south. The town of Lake George – set at the southernmost tip of the lake – is also located right off the interstate, however, to reach popular points of interest in the area (such as the charming hamlet of Bolton Landing), you’d exit the interstate and travel 9N, which skirts the entirety of Lake George’s western shoreline. The closest major airport is Albany International, 55 miles away.

How to Get to Lake Placid?

Situated in the heart of the Adirondack High Peaks in Northeastern New York (five hours from New York City), Lake Placid is also accessible by car via Interstate 87 and then Route 73 (for those coming from the south). However, unlike Lake George, the town is located 20 minutes from Adirondack Regional Airport, offering regional flights on commuter lines like Cape Air. There’s also the Lake Placid Airport for those with access to private or corporate aircrafts who want to fly directly into town.

HISTORICAL OVERVIEW

What is the History of Lake George?

The history of Lake George began with Native American inhabitants, followed by the colonial era where the region served as a vital trade route and military outpost, eventually playing a pivotal role in both the French and Indian War (1754–1763) and the American Revolution (1775–1783). With the rise of steamboat travel in the nineteenth century, the greater region became a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors with its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, resulting in the establishment of hotels and resorts along its shores – including The Sagamore Resort on Greene Island in 1882. Today, Lake George remains a popular destination for tourists, offering a blend of historical sites, outdoor recreation, and charming small-town atmosphere.

What is the History of Lake Placid?

Much like Lake George, prior to the early pioneers, the first residents of the Lake Placid region were the Iroquois and Mohawk Native Americans. During the nineteenth century, the area gained prominence with the advent of logging and mining industries. However, it was the hosting of the Winter Olympics in 1932 and again in 1980 that truly put Lake Placid on the map. These events transformed the town into an internationally recognized winter sports destination, leaving a lasting legacy of athletic excellence and community pride. Today, Lake Placid continues to thrive as a year-round tourist destination, offering outdoor recreational activities, stunning natural scenery, and a vibrant cultural scene, all while preserving its rich heritage and Olympic legacy.

DOWNTOWN SCENES

What is the Town of Lake George Like?

Set beside the eponymous lake, there’s plenty to do in the greater Lake George region with downtown Lake George serving as a walkable destination with a buzzy beach-boardwalk vibe. The village’s bustling main artery, Canada Street, is stocked with local shops, arcades, mini-golf, restaurants, and pubs, while, at the edge of the shore, steamers ferry vacationers on sightseeing tours and dinner cruises. While fun, it can be a dizzying, tourist-packed experience, so for those looking for a more relaxed downtown, Bolton Landing, located no more than a scenic 20-minute drive on 9N, is something like the quieter, more upscale cousin. While its walkable “main street” spanning a section of Lake Shore Drive may be short, at less than a half-mile in length, it sure is sweet, with charming boutiques housed in cottages and Adirondack-inspired buildings.

What is Lake Placid Village Like?

Set just beside the tranquil Mirror Lake, the village of Lake Placid may be no more than a mere 1.5 square miles in size, but it’s packed with a plethora of things to do . Resembling a scene that looks like it could have been plucked from a Norman Rockwell painting, the town’s single-lane Main Street is lined with charming, well-preserved buildings that reflect the village’s history and architectural heritage, while also serving up a nice mix of name-brand outlets and uniquely Lake Placid boutiques and shops , ideal for a day of shopping and browsing. Famous Olympic sites are also scattered around the edges of the town, including the recently renovated Olympic Center (on the southern end of Main Street) and the Ski Jumping Complex (no more than mile outside of the village).

TOP ATTRACTIONS

What is there to do in lake george, the lake, of course.

The 32-mile-long Lake George – once affectionally referred to as “the most beautiful water I ever saw” by Thomas Jefferson – not only is it considered to be one of the clearest and cleanest large lakes in the world, but these crystalline waters are rife with recreation. That wide-range of water activities includes everything from parasailing adventures and jet-ski rentals to fishing excursions to angling hotspots of “The Bays.” And, of course, there are several different types of historic and scenic steamer cruises with   The Lake George Steamboat Company (for more intimate and private tours, guests of The Sagamore Resort get access to the property’s 72-foot replica of a nineteenth-century touring vessel, The Morgan ). There are also six public beaches sprinkled around the lake, including Million Dollar Beach in Lake George Village and Usher Park on the eastern shore.

Arts & Culture

Between the 4,000 works of art by masters like Botticelli, Rembrandt, and Renoir at the Hyde Collection ; the ever-convincing war reenactments at Fort William Henry ; and free concerts at Shepard Park, entertainment and activities in the form of arts and culture isn’t hard to come by in the Lake George region. One of the favorite ways to spend a culture-filled afternoon is The Sembrich in Bolton Landing – a  former teaching studio and woodland retreat  of opera singer Marcella Sembrich – that is home not just to a renowned Summer Festival, but a 4.5-acre nature preserve woven with public walking paths and trails.

Lake George Restaurants

In the Lake George region, dining options range from elegant fine dining establishments such as Bistro LeRoux and The Chateau to unique eateries like the iconic hot dog house of New Way Lunch . But perhaps Lake George’s tightest concentration of vast and varied restaurants can be found at The Sagamore Resort. In fact, in-season, there are up to eight different dining outlets , including lakeside Italian at  La Bella Vita , towers of chilled seafood at the  open-air Pavilion , gourmet burgers in BRGR Kitchen & Bar , and poolside dining at  The LakeHouse . 

What is There to Do in Lake Placid?

Live it up on the lake – two lakes, actually.

Lake George may be larger than the five-mile-long Lake Placid, but Lake Placid tends to be a bit more, well, placid. That’s because there’s no road access other than one public boat launch (whereas the perimeter of Lake George is lined with several). That said, you can certainly enjoy watersports like wakeboarding, kayaking, and boat tours ( ADK Aquatics is the main outfitter). And when you’re a guest of Lake Placid Lodge, you get access to intimate tours on the lodge’s 35-foot mahogany Hacker Craft, Christie.

There’s also nearby Mirror Lake, of which the village of Lake Placid hugs the western edge. No motorized vessels are permitted on this body of water, just canoes and kayaks, and there’s also a small sandy beach at its southernmost point. Come winter, when this lake freezes over, thrill-seekers of all ages take advantage of two unique experiences: dog sledding and tobogganing across the frozen surface.

Explore Lake Placid Olympic History

The former Olympic facilities and venues built for the 1932 and 1980 games are just as significant as they were during the Olympic years. Lovingly cared for and collectively known as the Lake Placid Legacy Sites , these historic venues comprise the Olympic Center, Olympic Jumping Complex, Mt. Van Hoevenberg, and Whiteface Mountain and are available for touring. We highly suggest the Olympic Center right in the village as it’s home to a recently renovated and comprehensive Olympic museum containing rare memorabilia like the goalie net, a piece of the rink wall, and hockey uniforms from the legendary 1980 “Miracle on Ice.”

Lake Placid Restaurants

For a small village in the heart of the Adirondacks, Lake Placid offers an impressively diverse range of dining options, from sports bars like Players Waterfront Eatery and breweries like Big Slide Brewery & Public House to farm-to-table dining at Salt of the Earth bistro . However, to experience Lake Placid’s most celebrated dining experience, you’d need to make a reservation for Artisans at Lake Placid Lodge. In fact, this intimate fire-lit restaurant with a carefully curated menu helped to earn this property its acclaimed Relais & Châteaux distinction.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Where to stay in lake george.

Set on a private 70-acre island on the western shore of lower Lake George, The Sagamore Resort is a sprawling Victorian-era escape that has been welcoming visitors for more than 140 years. The 300-plus lakeside accommodations are vast and varied including traditional  luxury guest rooms  and  suites  in the main historic hotel; inviting  lakeside lodges  with modern kitchens and comfortable living rooms; bi-level suites housed in an a nineteenth-century carriage house , and on-site private homes, like The First House and  The Castle . As for what to do on-site, there’s award-winning dining , an 18-hole Donald Ross-designed golf course , a 10,000-square foot recreation center, and all spoils of that big beautiful lake from fishing to boating and beyond.

Where to Stay in Lake Placid?

The only hotel set directly on the tranquil waters of Lake Placid and just a five-minute drive from the downtown Olympic village, Lake Placid Lodge is a Great Camp-inspired retreat offering a secluded escape unlike any other. Layered in one-of-a-kind features and furniture handmade by local craftsmen – think towering hand-carved wooden beds, rough-hewn chairs and tables, stacked-stone fireplaces, and other Adirondack adornments – 30 luxurious guest accommodations are scattered across the sprawling property, including 17 secluded stand-alone lakeside cabins. A  slew of on-site activities are right at your fingertips, including lake kayaking or cruising aboard the resort’s 36-foot mahogany Hacker-Craft, fishing, and hiking the property’s various trails (and that’s just the warm-weather activities!).

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Go back in time by hiking along this old Bar Harbor railway

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This story was originally published in May 2023.

The wooden railroad ties were covered in moss and fallen leaves, their edges softened by time and the slow work of nature. Lying across the trail at random intervals, they almost blended into the forest floor. But here and there, a metal spike poked from the decaying wood.

Originally built by Maine Central Railroad in the 1880s, the railway used to carry passengers to McNeil Point in Hancock, where they would board steamer ferries to cross Frenchman Bay to Bar Harbor. It was a busy route then, with multiple trains running daily. Just like today, people were eager to experience the beauty of Mount Desert Island.

This once-popular method of travel, known as the Bar Harbor Express, chugged along until 1931, when the railway from Ellsworth to Hancock was discontinued. An auto bridge had been built to MDI, providing easier access to the island’s oceanside resorts and the newly formed Acadia National Park.

It was the end of an era. But nowadays, you can still ride a train on a 13-mile section of the restored railroad, starting at the rail yard and boarding platform on Washington Junction Road in Hancock. Known as the Downeast Scenic Railroad, the experience is like stepping back in time.

Or you can walk along a three-mile stretch of the former railway on the Old Pond Railway Trail. That’s what I was doing on April 28, with my dog Juno in tow. 

Spanning Point Road and Old Route 1 in Hancock, the trail travels through a lovely forest of oaks, maples, balsam firs and other trees. Along the way, it crosses a trestle bridge over a saltwater bay called Old Pond. There, at low tide, I spotted gulls wading through the shallows, an osprey fishing farther out, and a man digging for clams in the extensive mudflats.

Juno wanted to join him, but I didn’t feel like dealing with a muddy puppy for the rest of our walk. I also didn’t think the clammer would appreciate a husky-boxer mix digging enthusiastically alongside him. Yet in hindsight, I think he may have been impressed. Juno has dug up clams, unprompted, before. Perhaps she has a nose for them.

I first visited the Old Pond Railway Trail back in 2014. Boy does time fly. And it hasn’t changed much since then. I suppose the old railroad ties might have a bit more moss on them. And there’s new graffiti on the trestle bridge. “Smile,” “you’re loved” and “poetic justice” are now among the painted words.

Juno and I passed a few other visitors during our walk. I imagine everyone was enjoying the spring weather. Though the day was blustery, the sun was shining bright. Plants were budding. Frogs and salamanders had laid egg masses in woodland vernal pools. And tiny spiders had built their intricate webs among tree branches.

The trail, plus the adjoining Kilkenny Cove Preserve, is a collaboration of three local land trusts: Crabtree Neck Land Trust, Maine Coast Heritage Trust and Frenchman Bay Conservancy. The property was acquired in 2008, and local Eagle Scouts helped prepare the trail.

There are two trailheads: the East Entrance, on Point Road near its intersection with Route 1; and the West Entrance, with parking on Old Route 1. Both include parking lots for four cars.

The trail is about three miles long, so it’s a six-mile walk, out and back. But you certainly don’t have to walk the whole thing.

People who are particularly interested in the trestle bridge and Old Pond start at the East Entrance. From there, it’s about a half-mile on the trail to the bridge. Since it follows the bed of an old railway, the trail is flat and straight. The biggest challenge is watching your step so you don’t trip over the old railroad ties.

In addition to having a cool history, the trail is a good place for birding, according to the Frenchman Bay Conservancy website, with plenty of migrating songbirds and shorebirds during the spring and fall.

Back in April of 2014, I watched a group of four Canada geese from the trestle bridge. I also mentioned “black and white ducks of some variety” in my column about the hike. Perhaps they were buffleheads? From afar, they look black and white, although their dark feathers are actually iridescent.

Also back then, I noticed signs of porcupines along the forested part of the trail. A good reason to keep your dog on leash.

Throughout Maine, trails have been built along the bones of old railways. It makes sense. They make for even, solid surfaces. And they aren’t being used anymore.

Many of those railway trails are open to a variety of activities, including ATVing and horseback riding. However, Old Pond Railway Trail is a bit different. It’s fairly narrow, and with some of the railroad ties remaining on the ground, it’s not suitable for ATVing or even mountain biking. It’s only open to walkers and runners (for those brave enough to navigate over the ties at such a speed), and in the winter, snowshoers and skiers.

While walking through the dense forest, I at times found it hard to imagine a train chugging along the tracks, headed for the coast, its passengers sipping flutes of champagne. It’s amazing how quickly the wilderness takes over. There’s something satisfying about seeing moss creep over a sawed piece of timber, and a woodland flower sprout from its decaying wood.

More articles from the BDN

Aislinn sarnacki.

Aislinn Sarnacki is a Maine outdoors writer and the author of three Maine hiking guidebooks including “Family Friendly Hikes in Maine.” Find her on Twitter and Facebook @1minhikegirl. You can also... More by Aislinn Sarnacki