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The Ultimate Maine Road Trip Itinerary

June 26, 2020 //  by  Follow Me Away //   3 Comments

Trying to plan the perfect Maine road trip? Look no further! We’re here to help make the process a little less stressful!

It is one of the best road trips in the USA and should totally be on your bucket list!

Maine has so much to offer: from scenic roads to iconic lighthouses, famous lobster shacks, breathtaking trees alongside winding drives, fun cities, and some national parks, you won’t be disappointed with any stop you add to your Maine road trip itinerary. 

We are listing some of our favorite and “must-see” stops for a Maine road trip below. Victoria actually grew up exploring Maine and New England by RV, so we hope that you enjoy this itinerary!

Keep your personal timeline in mind as you get the car ready to go! You’re in for an amazing adventure.

The Ultimate Maine Road trip Itinerary

Getting to maine .

When starting your Maine road trip, we recommend flying into the Boston Logan International Airport. This airport is large and therefore a huge hub for many Airlines such as Delta, Cape Air, Southwest, American, United, and more. 

Because this airport is a hub, it also has a variety of cities to depart from, including, Chicago, Dallas, Atlanta Fort Lauderdale, Vegas, and more! So no matter where you are coming from, you will find a well-priced flight here at Boston Logan International Airport. 

If you want to fly into somewhere else, however, you can also consider flying into Portland (Portland, Maine, of course!), through their Portland International Jetport! We just suggest Boston Logan International because it is close to the border of the state and easier to rent cars from for Maine road trip! 

Getting Around During Your Maine Road Trip 

To begin your Maine road trip, you’ll need a car! So make sure to stop by the Rental Car Center serving Boston Logan after you land. Airport terminals run every 5-6 minutes and will take you straight to the RCC where you can rent out a vehicle.

Here you can rent from Enterprise, Budget, Hertz, Alamo, BOS, Thrifty, and Advantage! Just make sure to get a car that has some room and good gas mileage so you are comfortable and prepared for all your adventures of a road trip to Maine. 

Don’t forget to check out our Detailed Road Trip Packing List so you don’t forget any essentials for your trip!

When to See Fall Foliage in Maine 

We know that the fall foliage in New England is spectacular: people come from all over to see the leaves change, and Maine has some of the bright orange, yellow and red hues across their Maples, Oaks, Elms and Birch trees. 

Many people travel to Maine during late September to see the fall foliage. The September to October weather also is perfect timing for touring the coast and witnessing these hues act as a stake contrast of the blue waters of the nearby oceans, lakes, and rivers! So make sure to keep this in mind when you’re planning a date for your Maine road trip!

Stop 1: Rest and Relax at Ogunquit Beach

Ogunquit, Maine is a must stop for your Maine road trip because it truly is a beautiful place by the sea! With miles of sandy beaches, a scenic coast, art galleries, fun shopping, and dining adventures, this place ranks as one of the best vacation spots! 

Perkins Cove is a small fishing village that is great for shopping and restaurants! There are also a variety of tours from boat harbors that you can visit here! Marginal Way is a 1.25-mile coastal walking path that connects Perkins Village to Ogunquit, so this is a great science route to walk. 

There is also some great theater here, so you can check out the Ogunquit Playhouse or the Museum of American Art if you’re interested! Or if you want to do something beyond the beach and small towns, make sure to check our some events: local food and wine tastings are popular and fall-themed events are dependent on the time of year you visit! 

Where to Stay in Ogunquit Beach

Mid-Range: Ogunquit River Inn. Check Rates: Booking.com 

Mid-Range: Ogunquit Tides . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 2: Continue to Relax in Kennebunkport 

Kennebunkport is a coastal town in southern Maine that is famous for it’s long, sandy beaches. You must check this location out during your Maine road trip if you’re interested in stopping by Goose Rocks Beach as well as Arundel Beach.  This is truly one of the best things to do in Maine!

The Seashore Trolley Museum is also a neat and niche place that displays a huge collection of streetcars, and many people like checking out St. Ann’e Episcopal Church since it dates back to 1887 and its rustic stone architecture contrasted with its grass fields are breathtaking. 

Cape Porpoise is also a nearby lobster-fishing village that sits in a harbor and is well known for its local seafood. From most restaurants and galleries here, you can also view the 1833 Goat Island Lighthouse! 

Where to Stay in Kennebunkport

Mid-Range: Lodge at Kennebunk.  Check Rates: Booking.com

High Range-Range: The Boathouse. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 3: Make sure to Visit Cape Elizabeth for Iconic Lighthouses

A Genteel town, Cape Elizabeth is another stop you have to spend some time during your Maine road trip This place of history and coastlines and parks hugs the Casco Bay , making ripe for adventure! 

Many tourists love to explore this area by bike and cross the Casco Bay Bridge to get to the Cape Elizabeth’s coast. But the hardest decision to make when visiting here comes down to visiting lighthouses: there are so many! Portland Headlight, Ram Island Ledge Lighthouse, and Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse  are active and great views. 

Williams Par k has great trails to explore old batteries, but more importantly, Two Lights State Park is set on a rocky shoreline where you can view twin lighthouses that are close by. This place is perfect for lunch alongside the crashing waves, but you can also check out Crescent Bech State Park!

Where to Stay Near Cape Elizabeth 

Mid-Range: The Francis Check Rates: Booking.com

High-Range: Inn by the Sea . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 4: Spend some time in Portland, Maine (not Oregon!) 

Set on the peninsula extending into Casco Bay , Portland is a great city to stop in during your Maine road trip, and it’s close to Cape Elizabeth!  The Old Port features fishing wharves, warehouses, restaurants, and unique Indie shops that are great for exploring. 

Fort Willams Park is fantastic for visiting a rocky coast, as the seaside park is coastal and has an old fort and views of lighthouses! The Portland Head Lighthouse is also super cool to check out. 

If you’re looking for something more “indoors” to do, you can check out the Portland Museum of Art, but we highly recommend visiting Peaks Island , where there are more beaches and a really cool Fifth Maine Regiment Museum ! 

Where to stay near Portland 

Mid-Range: Hampton Inn Portland Downtown Waterfront Check Rates: Booking.com

High-Range: Portland Harbor Hotel. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 5: Enjoy the Water in Waldoboro 

Waldoboro is a cute, quaint town in Maine that is perfect for any Maine road trip itinerary. Well known for its lakes, this place thrives off of its agricultural and fishing legacy. 

We recommend checking out all the lake and pond wonders Waldoboro has! From Damariscotta Lake to Pemaquid Pond and Duckpuddle Pond , these bodies of waters are perfect for evenings that you want to fish, relax, boat, and watch sunsets! 

We also think the Waldoboro Historical Society is a cute museum to check out! And the Goose River Peace Corps Preserve and Pond are just fantastic for exploring trails and greenery! Make sure to take in the scenery at Waldoboro! 

Where to Stay Near Waldoboro

Mid-Range: Claddagh Motel and Suites. Check Rates: Booking.com 

Mid-Range: Ledges by the Bay . Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 6: Check out Rockland and it’s cute Bay and Harbor

Rockland , Maine is a popular tourist spot, so you must add it to your Maine road trip itinerary. Rockland is known as mid-coast Maine and is beautifully famous because the mountains and sea converge here right on Rockland Harbor and Penobscot Bay . 

The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is a highlight of the town, and there are plenty of tours you can take that lets you travel around Penobscot Bay. 

There are also amazing restaurants and shops to check out here, such as Rustica — a great Italian place– and Jess’ Market . Many tourists love renting bikes to explore the small-time and highly recommend looking at great festivals that might be going on when you visit: Rockland is famous for its Summer Solstice Festival! 

Where to Stay Near Rockland

Mid-Range: Glen Cove Inn & Suites. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range : Strawberry Hill Seaside Inn. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 7: You Must See the East Coast’s Acadia National Park 

Would you really be on a Maine road trip without stopping by and witnessing Acadia National Park in all of its glory? Acadia National Park is a 47,000-acre recreation area on Maine’s Mount Desert. 

Known for its foods, rocky beaches, and breathtaking granite, there are some must-sees here. Cadillac Mountain is the tallest point on the East coast for example. It’s known for its sweeping panoramic views. 

But also make sure to check out Sand Beach , where the quiet cove is super relaxing, or even Jordan Pond where there are some beautiful trails with nearby mountains and lakes! We recommend ensuring that you check out the Bubble Mountain hike though, and Mount Desert Island! 

Where to stay near Acadia

Low-Range: Acadia Pines Motel. Check Rates: Booking.com 

Mid-Range: Anchorage Motel. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 8: Spend some Time In Bar Harbor 

This bayside town is close to Acadia and is a popular getaway or stops for tourists which is why we’re listing it on your Maine road trip itinerary! You can view this town from the top of Cadillac Mountain.

Many people stop by here because it is so close to Acadia, but while here make sure to check out the Ocean Trail, Schoodic Peninsula, and Frenchman Bay . 

The Criterion Theatre is also a cool place for an evening in, or exploring Village Green , a small historical town with lots to explore! The College of the Atlantic Gardens is also quaint and quiet if you’re looking for something a bit different to explore!

Where to stay in Bar Harbor

Mid-Range: Moseley Cottage Inn. Check Rates: Booking.com

High-Range: Bar Harbor Grand Hotel. Check Rates: Booking.com

Stop 9: Take a trip on a ferry to Nova Scotia 

Although Nova Scotia is technically a province in eastern Canada and not a part of Maine, you have to add it to your Maine road trip! Thankfully you can take the CAT ferry from Bar Harbor for a day trip to Nova! 

Some of the top sights you’ll want to visit in Nova during your trip include the Cape Breton Highlands National Park where you can take trails through mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and coastlines. The Kejimkujik National Park is similar to Cape Breton as well! 

Or you can explore the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, the Halifax Public Gardens of the Halifax Citadel National Site. And if you’re feeling REALLY adventurous, off the coast of Sable Island there are tons of shipwrecks to explore if you want to go diving or snorkeling! Just watch for the high tides Nova is famous for! 

Where to Stay in Nova Scotia

Low-Range: Hillside Landing B&B. Check Rates: Booking.com

Mid-Range: Residence Inn. Check Rates: Booking.com

We are so excited you’ve chosen o embark on a Maine road trip, as it is truly a gorgeous state with unforgettable coastlines. After your day trip to Nova, you can head back to Boston or Portland to go ahead and fly home! But as we’ve mentioned, this guide only touches the surface of what Maine has to offer. If you want to know more or have more time to explore, check out some other stops as well. Either way, we know you’ll have fun!

With More Time: 

There is truly so much to do in Maine, so if you are traveling with a bit more time, or for a longer period of time, we are adding a few more stops you might want to stop and explore during your Maine road trip! These stops are super popular as well but are a bit further out of the “loop” during your traveling adventures. They will take more time to get to, but definitely check them out if you have that extra time!

Visit Chimney Pond Via Mount Katahdin

To climb Mount Katahdin during your extended Maine road trip, we suggest taking the Chimney Pond Trail. This trail is 6.3 miles and is considered a “moderate” hike, but is well known for the lake and views it offers.

The Chimney Pond Campgrounds are also part of the “backcountry” near Baxter State Park . Here you can rest and realz while having the closest access to other trails such as Hamlin Ridge and Saddle .  

Visit Oh My Gosh Corner/Carrabassett

Carrabassett Valley is located between the Bigelow Mountains and is known for its scenic routes of birches and rivers. Many people love to come here for skiing in the winter, as there is a bend in the Route known as “Oh My Gosh Corner.”  

From this corner, you can see Sugarloaf Mountain, is 163 trails trifling down its surface. The bend in this road is breathtaking: its north-facing mountain towers around the corner at a 4,237 summit along Carrabassett River . You don’t want to miss it during your Maine road trip.

Visit Moosehead Lake 

Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine, which means you have to stop and see it with your Maine itinerary! Situated in the Longfellow Mountains , this lake is surrounded by the Kennebec River.

Near Beaver Cove , the terrain slopes gently toward the water making it a perfect place to swim. The water clarity is great, temperatures fairly warm, and Mount Kineo is also close: here you can explore the 700-foot scenic cliffs in-between your lake day! 

Visit Rangeley Lake 

Fed by a variety of streams, Rangeley Lake is situated close to Rangeley , which was named one of the best winter towns inNew England. Its lake is over 6,000 arches and is super deep (149 feet!). But no matter what time of year you are taking your Maine road trip, you’ve got to stop here! 

Many people love to fish here, as the lake is known for its brook trout and salmon. Beyond the lake though, there is Rangeley Village with hotels, restaurants and shops, and the Rangeley Lakes Region Historical Society is a cute museum that exhibits the town’s history! 

Visit Sugarloaf Mountain 

Sugarloaf Mountain is a lovely mountain in Maine. Open from 8 a.m. until sunset, this natural landmark has geographical beauty and striking landscape views. After taking lifts to the top of Sugarloaf and exploring the park, you can check out the nearby towns. 

Visit Baxter State Park 

Our last suggestion for your Maine road trip itinerary includes Baxter State Park . This is a large wilderness area that has been permanently preserved and features a variety of trails (we highly recommend checking out the Knife Edge trail !), sights, and mountains. 

Mount Katahdin is Maine’s tallest peak and is located here. It is also a favorite hike amongst tourists! And Baxter Peak is also popular, although its trial is more difficult. If you’re feeling more “woodsy” too, you can explore the monuments and breathtaking sights of Katahdin Woods and Waters! 

And there you have it! A great Maine road trip itinerary that will take you around the state to experience national parks, iconic lighthouses, potent landscapes, and more. Make sure to drive safe and have TONS of fun during your Maine road trip– we promise it will be unforgettable! 

Reader Interactions

July 12, 2020 at 12:14 pm

What a wonderful trip through Maine. I have done some of it but would love to return to see the rest. It is a beautiful state with so many places to visit…One day…

October 14, 2022 at 8:39 pm

thanks for the good read. i am going solo as i promised to see Maine before i am 60 ill let you know how much i love it

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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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The ULTIMATE Route 1 Maine Road Trip Itinerary | Attractions, Restaurants, & Travel Tips

United States Route 1 is a massive north-south roadway that stretches over 2,300 miles, connecting Fort Kent Maine to Key West Florida. Over 520 miles of the road runs along the stunning Atlantic coastline of Maine and the Canadian border, making it a popular destination for road-trippers.

However, planning a Route 1 Maine road trip can be overwhelming because of the vast distance and numerous small towns and attractions along the way.

That’s why we’ve created a comprehensive itinerary to guide you from south to north, starting in Kittery and ending in Fort Kent (with some detours). But, feel free to follow it in reverse if you prefer.

Either way, get ready for a breathtaking and picturesque drive along Vacationland’s stunning coastline, with plenty of incredible stops along the way.

About Traveling U.S. 1 in Maine

While there’s some discrepancy regarding the exact length of U.S. 1, the last official log reported it as 2,593 miles long. However, various sources online list it as either 2,370 or 2,390 miles long.

Regardless, it’s worth noting that this highway passes through an impressive 15 states, more than any other highway in the country.

Although U.S. 1 doesn’t have an official beginning or end point, the town of Fort Kent claims to be the northern terminus since the route was originally signed in 1927 when the American Association of State Highway Officials adopted the U.S. numbered highway system.

If you’re following our itinerary from south to north, expect a thrilling adventure filled with stunning scenery, charming towns, and unforgettable experiences. Here’s a quick look at the route:

• Starting from Kittery, U.S. 1 runs northeast and parallel to I-95.
• From Portland, it merges and runs parallel to I-295.
• After Brunswick, U.S. 1 turns in an easterly direction.
• As it approaches Rockland, U.S. 1 turns more northward.
• After Bucksport, U.S. 1 heads east again.
• From Whiting, it veers northward and gets closer to the Canadian border.
• At Maro Hill, U.S. 1 briefly curves away from the border before meeting it again.
• From Van Buren, it follows a northwest path along the border.
• Finally, from Madawaska, U.S. 1 runs westward and slightly southward to reach Fort Kent.

Route 1 Road Trip Traffic

Driving straight through the Maine portion of U.S. Route 1 would take approximately 11.5 hours, but that would mean missing out on the countless charming coastal towns and attractions along the way.

Additionally, most of those “ from away ” come to Vacationland during the summer and fall. Because of that, traffic on U.S. 1 can get pretty crowded. If you don’t want to get caught up in the peak of traffic, you could plan your trip for between Labor Day and mid-October. We also recommend traveling in winter or spring — before May.

Driving Through the Regions

Sometimes, the boundaries of Maine’s regions are a topic of debate among locals. According to the Maine Office of Tourism, though, here are the coastal boundaries of the towns you’ll be visiting during your Route 1 Maine road trip:

• The Southern Maine Coast begins in Kittery and stretches to Old Orchard Beach.
• Greater Portland & Casco Bay spans from Scarborough to Brunswick and includes the islands in Casco Bay .
• Mid Coast Maine covers the coastline from Bath to Winterport.
• Downeast Maine starts at Verona Island and Bucksport and runs northeast to Lubec and Eastport and then north to Danforth next to the Canadian border.
• Aroostook County extends along the Canadian border from Weston to Fort Kent and then northwest to the Village of Estcourt.

So, without further delay, here’s a comprehensive list of the best places to stop during your Route 1 Maine road trip. Buckle up and get ready for an epic journey!

Best Route 1 Stops on the Southern Maine Coast

As you cross the New Hampshire border and enter the Southern Maine Coast, the first town you’ll encounter is Kittery . This town has a rich history dating back to 1623 when it was a fishery, and you can see this history reflected in its buildings, especially the forts.

One such fort is the Fort McClary State Historic Site , which is nearly 300 years old and offers a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and enjoying the history and surrounding nature.

Another option is Fort Foster Park on Gerrish Island, which is easily accessible by car and boasts three small beaches and a trail system for biking and walking through the military fort remnants.

If shopping is more your style, then the famous Kittery Premium Outlets are a must-visit destination. Here, you’ll find a blend of locally sourced products alongside high-end and national chains, offering a unique shopping experience for everyone.

Kittery Restaurants

You’ll find numerous restaurants in Kittery to keep you fueled up, but here are a few that we recommend:

• Beach Pea Baking Co.
• The Black Birch
• Rose’s Spring Rolls

RELATED: The Best Kittery Maine Hotels and Lodging

York Maine is a charming and noncommercial town that offers a fantastic opportunity to slow down and enjoy the simple things in life. Start your visit at Sohier Park in Cape Neddick, where you can stretch your legs and take in the stunning Nubble Lighthouse , one of the most photographed landmarks in the country. While here, enjoy a picnic lunch, go scuba diving, and spot a variety of wildlife.

For a dose of history, head to the Museums of Old York , a complex of several historic buildings that house a collection of York-related artistic and historical objects.

Afterward, satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to The Goldenrod , where you can watch old-fashioned saltwater taffy being made before indulging in a variety of candies, ice cream sodas, and hot fudge sundaes.

If you have some extra time, take an easy 30-minute hike to the peak of Mount Agamenticus , which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Boston Massachusetts, and the White Mountains of New Hampshire from its 692-foot summit. Alternatively, hop on a horse or ATV to reach the top for a unique and exciting experience.

York Restaurants

Lots of restaurants in York will energize your road trip, but here are some top-rated options:

• The Central Restaurant & Bar
• Foster’s Clambakes & Catering
• Green Leaves Chinese-Japanese Restaurant & Lounge

RELATED: The Best Hotels and Lodging in York, York Harbor, and York Beach

As Maine’s third oldest town, Wells has a rich history. But, its natural beauty and antique shops are what make this town a vacation paradise. Wells Beach is a sandy stretch of land with seagrass, sand dunes, and more than 1.5 miles of shoreline.

At the end of Mile Road on the south side of Wells Beach, you’ll find free parking, a few restaurants, a snack bar, an arcade, and more. On the north side at the end of Atlantic Avenue, you’ll find paid parking, a boat launch into Wells Harbor, and the Wells Beach Jetty — a popular walkway among fishermen.

TIP: Other beaches to visit in Wells include Crescent Beach, Drakes Island Beach, and Moody Beach.

If you’re craving more nature than the beach, head to the Wells Reserve at Laudholm Farms . This National Estuarine Research Reserve features 7 miles of walking trails, bird sanctuaries, and saltwater marshlands. Or, visit the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge — a preserve of about 50 miles of shoreline, beaches, meadows, and tidal marshes.

And before you leave Wells, peruse the variety of antique shops. With more than a dozen antique shops, the town is considered the Antique Capital of Maine and is a haven for antique furniture, books, and fun tchotchkes. A few of the most well-known stores include Anytime Antiques , R. Jorgensen Antiques , and Bo-Mar Hall Antiques & Collectibles .

Wells Restaurants

From fresh seafood to tasty ice cream, Wells restaurants have a little bit of everything. Here are a few places that we recommend during your Route 1 road trip:

• Fisherman’s Catch Restaurant
• The Steakhouse
• Big Daddy’s
• Congdon’s Doughnuts

RELATED: Best Wells Maine Hotels, Motels, Cottages and Resorts

Ogunquit Maine is a charming town that offers a wealth of enchanting experiences. Begin your adventure by hopping on an Ogunquit Trolley to tour the museums, beaches, shops, and local hot spots.

The trolley even stops at Marginal Way , a 1.25-mile cliff walk that runs along the shore from downtown Ogunquit to Perkins Cove. Along the way, you’ll come across benches, 3 miles of dunes, and numerous photo opportunities.

At Perkins Cove, you’ll enter a turn-of-the-century fishing village featuring a manual footbridge, seaside restaurants, boutique shops, fishing and sailing excursions, and stunning ocean views.

In the evening, catch an authentic, off-Broadway performance at the Ogunquit Playhouse . The general season runs from May through October and features top-notch local and regional performers showcasing their talents in a 1933 barn.

Ogunquit Restaurants

When it’s time for dining in Oqunquit , check out some of these restaurant favorites:

• Beachfire Bar and Grille
• Five-O Shore Road
• Lobster Shack
• That Place in Ogunquit

RELATED: Best Ogunquit Maine Hotels, Resorts, and Bed and Breakfasts

Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach is a must-visit destination on your Route 1 Maine road trip thanks to its 7 miles of pristine sandy beaches. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in the ocean, sunbathe, build sandcastles, and enjoy a range of water sports.

The beach is also home to The Pier , a lively spot that extends 500 feet into the Atlantic Ocean and features several seafood dives and gift shops. At night, The Pier comes alive with entertainment and nightlife, including DJs, karaoke, and comedy acts.

Across from The Pier, you’ll find Palace Playland , an amusement park that has been entertaining visitors since 1902. This unique attraction is the only amusement park of its kind on a New England beach and boasts over 25 rides and attractions, including an old-fashioned carousel, the famous Electra Wheel (a Ferris wheel), and the thrilling 70-foot Sea Viper coaster. It’s the perfect place to let your inner child run wild.

Old Orchard Beach Restaurants

No matter the time of day, the restaurants in Old Orchard Beach will have whatever your appetite craves:

• Elevate Cafe
• Hoss and Mary’s
• Johnny Shucks Maine Lobster
• Paloma’s Restaurant
• Red Door Market and Deli
• Tostones on the Beach

RELATED: Old Orchard Beach Hotels, Motels, Cottages, and Condos

Greater Portland Stops on Route 1

Portland , the largest city and biggest port in Maine, has a rich history that spans hundreds of years, and the city is proud to share it with visitors. Train enthusiasts, for example, can learn about the city and state’s railroad history at the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum and even go for a ride.

RELATED: EXCITING Railroad Museums & Train Rides in Maine

Built in 1807, The Portland Observatory on Munjoy Hill is the only wooden signal tower still standing in North America, having survived Portland’s Great Fire of 1866. From the top of the observatory, you get breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landmarks.

If you’re interested in cryptids and legendary creatures, stop by the International Cryptozoology Museum , which features fascinating exhibits about the Abominable Snowman, Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and more. Discover historical accounts, artifacts, fossils, photos, and other intriguing items.

For those seeking some time in nature, the Portland Trails Network offers 80 miles of trails to explore, some of which run through the Old Port district and along Casco Bay. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area while getting some exercise.

Portland Restaurants

From lobster rolls to breweries , you’ll find tons of fresh, delicious food in Portland . Check out some of the popular spots during your visit:

• Izakaya Minato

RELATED: Portland Maine Hotels, Motels, and Lodging

Freeport Maine is a charming town located along Casco Bay and is known as a shopping paradise. One of its most famous shops is the L.L. Bean flagship store , which has been in operation since 1912 and remains open 24 hours a day.

But, Freeport offers more than just shopping. The town is also home to beautiful scenery, such as Wolfe’s Neck State Park , which is located close to downtown and offers salt marsh walks, forested trails, and adventures along the rocky coastline across more than 230 acres.

TIP: Wolfe’s Neck State Park is especially stunning during the peak fall foliage season .

For a unique nature experience, head to the Desert of Maine , which spans 20 acres of sand dunes. Self-guided and guided tours are available, teaching you about how the dunes formed during the Ice Age. After walking the nature trails, grab a snack at the Oasis Cafe and a souvenir at the gift shop. It’s a must-visit destination for nature lovers.

Freeport Restaurants

At the many restaurants in Freeport , find everything from savory entrees to indulgent desserts:

• Isabella’s Cafe & Bakery
• Mainely Custard
• Wicked Whoopies
• Tuscan Brick Oven Bistro

RELATED: Freeport Maine Hotels, Motels, and Lodging

Before embarking on your U.S. Route 1 road trip into Mid-Coast Maine, take some time to discover Brunswick . The Town Mall (not a conventional shopping mall) is a point of pride for the town and is split into the Lower Mall and Upper Mall . It has a walking path, monuments, gardens, picnic areas, farmers’ markets, and an event space.

Not far from downtown or Route 1, the Androscoggin Swinging Bridge is another must-see attraction. Built in 1892 and destroyed in a massive flood in 1936, the bridge was only renovated, restored, and reopened in 2006. Spanning 300 feet, the bridge has a slight give to it, adding to the excitement of crossing it.

While in Brunswick, check out Crystal Spring Farm , which hosts a Saturday Farmers’ Market and offers trails, the Tom Settlemire Community Garden, and the Labyrinth in the Woods. It’s a great place to connect with nature and enjoy some fresh local produce.

Brunswick Restaurants

Serving a range of international cuisines, Brunswick’s restaurants can satisfy every appetite:

• Fielders Choice Homemade Ice Cream
• Taverna Khione
• Bombay Mahal
• Richard’s Restaurant

RELATED: Bath and Brunswick Maine Hotels, Motels, and Lodging

Best U.S. 1 Destinations in Mid Coast Maine

Located on the Kennebec River, Bath Maine is a quaint town with locally owned eateries and shops. The city has a rich shipbuilding history and is known as the City of Ships.

Then, learn about Bath’s seafaring heritage and that of the state at the Maine Maritime Museum , which boasts over 20,000 artifacts, an 1851 American clipper ship on display, and a lobstering building and blacksmith shop.

Additionally, get an up-close look at Maine’s First Ship , a replica of the pinnace Virginia that was built in 1607 and was the first ship to sail to England. Volunteers at the Bath Freight Shed love to share its history.

Bath also offers tours of the town and its waters. Embark Maine Tours provides historic tours, while River Run Tours offers maritime history, evening/sunset, and island cruises. It’s a great way to explore the area and learn about its fascinating history.

Bath Restaurants

When you’re ready to stop for a bite to eat, we suggest eating at one of these Bath restaurants :

• Byrnes Irish Pub
• Southgate Family Restaurant
• Winnegance Restaurant & Bakery
• Witch Spring Hill Ice Cream

Five Islands Detour

If you have some extra time, it’s worth taking a detour south of Route 1 to visit Georgetown’s Five Islands. This charming neighborhood is widely considered to be the Prettiest Harbor in Maine , and for good reason.

One of the most popular activities is sailing Sheepscot Bay to see the five islands up close. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area while enjoying a relaxing boat ride.

And, no visit to Five Islands would be complete without grabbing a delicious lobster roll at the Five Islands Lobster Company . It’s a local favorite and a must-try for seafood lovers. Another awesome place to dine is BLUE Restaurant at Grey Havens Inn , which serves New England cuisine — think fresh-caught fish and the finest ingredients.

Damariscotta

Damariscotta Maine has been a beloved stop along U.S. Route 1 for decades, thanks to its charming atmosphere and fresh Pemaquid oysters. Discover the Whaleback Shell Midden State Historic Site , which features a massive pile of oyster shells shaped like a whale. Some of the shells date back to when the Abenaki people lived in the area.

For even more oyster-themed fun, book a themed ride with Damariscotta River Cruises , such as the Oyster & Wine Tasting or the Oyster Farms & Seal Watching cruises. Each tour includes a narration of the history of oysters and dining from a raw oyster bar. It’s a unique and delicious way to experience the area’s rich oyster culture.

TIP: If you’re planning a Route 1 Maine road trip in October, plan to attend the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta . This popular festival features giant pumpkins, pumpkin-themed activities, food stands, and street performers. It’s a fun and festive way to celebrate the fall season and experience the local culture.

Damariscotta Restaurants

If you don’t book a Damariscotta River Cruises tasting, you can still get local oysters at River House Maine . If you’re in the mood for something else, here are a few other places to stop:

• Ann’s Book Bistro
• Metcalf’s Submarine Sandwiches
• Waltz Soda Fountain

RELATED: Damariscotta, New Harbor, and Pemaquid Point Maine Hotels, Inns, Motels, Resorts, and Lodging

Monhegan Island Detour

For a fun detour from U.S. 1 and Damariscotta in Mid-Coast Maine, consider taking a boat ride to Monhegan Island . Head south to New Harbor to catch a ride with Hardy Boat Cruises , or follow Route 1 to Thomaston before heading south to Port Clyde for a ride with the Monhegan Boat Line .

Once on Monhegan Island, explore Main Street art galleries and shops, the iconic Monhegan Lighthouse, 12 miles of dirt trails , beaches, and Monhegan Harbor in a kayak. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area while enjoying some outdoor activities and local culture.

There are some delicious eats while you’re on the island too, such as Monhegan Brewing Company , The Barnacle , and The Fish House . And if you decide to stay overnight, there are a few lodging options on Monhegan Island to choose from.

Rockland, Rockport, & Camden

As you continue north on U.S. 1 in Maine, you’ll come across the City of Rockland , the Town of Rockport , and the Town of Camden , each offering a variety of activities to keep you entertained.

In Rockland, check out the Maine Lighthouse Museum , walk the Rockland Harbor Trail , and snap a photo of the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse . And don’t miss the Maine Lobster Festival , a five-day event held every summer from late July to early August to celebrate the area’s most famous seafood.

RELATED: Annual Festivals & Events in Maine You Should Explore This Year

Next up is Rockport where you can visit Marine Park’s Andre the Seal statue and the Rockport Lime Kilns . Adjacent to the park is the small, sandy Goodie’s Beach . The town is also home to Aldemere Farm , a cattle farm featuring Belted Galloway cows with their signature Oreo appearance.

In Camden, trek 20 multi-use trails at Camden Hills State Park , some of which lead to the peaks of Mount Battie and Mount Megunticook. For those who want to get out on the water, several Camden Maine cruises and schooner boat tours are available. It’s a great way to experience the stunning coastline and natural beauty of the area.

Area Restaurants

Across these two towns and one city, you have a wide selection of dining options. In Rockland, consider eating at the Home Kitchen Cafe , Liberator Brewing Company , or Primo Restaurant , as well as grabbing dessert at Bixby Chocolates or Dorman’s Dairy Dream .

Among the Rockport restaurants , 18 Central Oyster Bar & Grill is a top-rated locale. And for dining in Camden , head to any of these: Franny’s Bistro , Owl & Turtle Bookshop Cafe , and River Ducks Ice Cream .

RELATED: Rockland Maine Hotels , Rockport Maine Hotels , & Camden Maine Hotels

Vinalhaven Detour

If you find yourself in the Rockland-Rockport-Camden area, consider taking a detour to the charming island town of Vinalhaven.

As the biggest offshore island in Maine, Vinalhaven offers plenty of activities to enjoy, including hiking, boat tours, swimming, and lighthouse photo ops. Plus, you’ll find a variety of shops and restaurants, such as Greet’s Eats , Pizza Pit , and Good Things Coffee House .

To get to Vinalhaven, take the Maine State Ferry Service from the terminal in Rockland. It’s a great way to experience the unique island culture and natural beauty of the area.

The next stop on this Route 1 Maine road trip is Belfast , a city that offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Two connecting trails allow you to walk through the city along the Passagassawakeag River.

The nearly 1-mile Belfast Harbor Walk starts at Belfast Park , a popular gathering place for special events, picnics, and low-tide walks. The cement path leads northwest along the wharf, passes shops and restaurants, and goes through the Front Street Shipyard. It ends at the Armistice Bridge, a footbridge that crosses the river and offers beautiful views of the harbor.

From there, continue walking north along the approximately 2-mile Belfast Rail Trail . The crushed-stone path leads to City Point, providing excellent views of the river along the way. In the winter, it’s an ideal trail for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

For an indoor activity in Belfast, consider taking a class at the Belfast Curling Club . It’s a fun way to try out this Olympic sport and enjoy some friendly competition.

Belfast Restaurants

From comfort food to exotic dishes, the restaurants in Belfast have everything that you’re looking for:

• Laan Xang Cafe
• Satori Belfast
• The Only Doughnut
• Wild Cow Creamery

RELATED: Belfast and Searsport Maine Hotels, Inns, Cottages and Lodging

Stockton Springs & Prospect

After exploring Belfast, the next stops on your Route 1 Maine road trip are Stockton Springs and Prospect before crossing the Penobscot River to Verona Island.

Just before you cross, be sure to visit the Fort Knox State Historic Site , one of the best-preserved examples of a mid-19th-century military fortification. This impressive fort is the largest in Maine, measuring 146 feet by 252 feet, and was built between 1844 and 1869.

After your fort tour, don’t miss the chance to ride to the top of the Penobscot Narrows Bridge & Observatory . This 2,100-foot cable-stayed bridge boasts a 42-story public observatory, the tallest of its kind in the world.

From the top, you’ll enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the fort below, Penobscot Bay , and beyond. It’s a unique and unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.

There aren’t too many restaurants in the area, but The Club Marina and Bar and Just Barb’s are two places that have some great food.

Downeast Stops on a Route 1 Maine Road Trip

Stonington & Deer Isle Detour

As you continue westward on Route 1, we highly recommend taking a detour south of the highway to visit Deer Isle and Stonington. These charming island towns are the perfect first stops on your Downeast Maine road trip and offer plenty of activities to enjoy:

• Hiking at Island Heritage Trust preserves
• Visiting the Deer Isle-Stonington Historical Society exhibits
• Hiking the Deer Isle Lighthouse Trail
• Kayaking with Osprey’s Echo Sea Kayaking or Sea Kayak Stonington
• Touring the exhibits at the Deer Isle Granite Museum
• Getting interactive at the Discovery Wharf at the Maine Center for Coastal Fisheries

And when you get hungry, 44 North Coffee , Aragosta at Goose Cove , Burnt Cove Boil , Stonington Seafood , and Stonington Ice Cream Company are all top-notch dining options.

Back on U.S. 1, you’ll reach Ellsworth Maine , a town that boasts some unique attractions. For example, The Telephone Museum is dedicated to showcasing the history of communication technology, offering the chance to see how telephones have evolved over time.

Another must-visit spot in Ellsworth is the Big Chicken Barn where you can peruse three floors of wares from over 50 vendors. With thousands of antiques, over 150,000 books, and more than 50,000 magazines sprawled across 21,600 square feet, there’s something for everyone to discover.

For those who want to get creative, Atlantic Art Glass is an open studio where you can create your own glass artwork. Even if you have no experience, a professional instructor will guide you through the process. It’s a fun and unique way to discover your artistic side.

Ellsworth Restaurants

No matter your diet or palate, these restaurants in Ellsworth will fill your belly:

• Flexit Cafe & Bakery
• Provender Kitchen & Bar
• Union River Lobster Pot

RELATED: Ellsworth Maine Bed & Breakfasts, Inns, and Hotels

Mount Desert Island Detour

Before continuing your journey on Route 1, take a detour south to Mount Desert Island for a plethora of outdoor adventures.

On the island’s west side, you get to enjoy spectacular views of the Bass Harbor Head Light Station at the entrance of Bass Harbor in the Town of Tremont. Additionally, the Seal Cove Auto Museum boasts a collection of cars made between 1895 and 1917 and is located near the Seal Cove Picnic Area.

In the middle of Mount Desert Island, learn about the island’s rich history at the Mount Desert Island Historical Society Museum . In Acadia National Park , drive the scenic Park Loop Road , hike Cadillac Mountain , listen to the waves at Thunder Hole , and take in stunning views at Otter Point Overlook.

On the east side of the island in Bar Harbor , tour the Abbe Museum to learn about the natives who once lived in the area and the Dorr Museum of Natural History to learn about Acadia’s founder.

Island Restaurants

With so many outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, Mount Desert Island is a must-visit destination on your Maine road trip. There are even several places to eat on the island — like Rose Eden Lobster , The Travelin’ Lobster , and Stadium Bar Harbor in Bar Harbor and the Harbor Table , Next Level Sports Lounge , and Salt Shop in Southwest Harbor .

RELATED: Bar Harbor Maine Hotels & Southwest Harbor and Bass Harbor Hotels

Located about a one-hour drive east, Machias is a true hidden gem and one of the most charming towns in Downeast Maine. Thanks to its location, it offers a wide variety of activities and attractions to enjoy.

One of the top activities in Machias is kayaking the nearly 6-mile Orange River Water Trail where you can spot a range of wildlife, including beavers, birds, deer, and trout. The calm waters provide a serene and peaceful environment to enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

For those who love shopping, The French Cellar is a must-visit for fresh cheese, craft beer, and hundreds of wines. Additionally, the Crows Nest Shops offer a shopping center with baked goods, local arts and crafts, and unique gifts and souvenirs.

TIP: If you happen to visit Machias in August, attend the Machias Wild Blueberry Festival , a community celebration of Maine’s wild blueberries. This festival offers a chance to enjoy blueberry-themed food and entertainment , as well as browse the wares of over 200 craft merchants and artisans. It’s a fun and unique way to experience the local culture and celebrate one of Maine’s most famous crops.

Machias Restaurants

Since Machias is such a small town, there aren’t too many restaurants to choose from, but Pat’s Pizza offers dine-in seating and Riverside Take-Out offers amazing roadside seafood for picnics.

Lubec & Eastport Detour

Although Route 1 doesn’t quite reach the easternmost point of Maine, you can take a detour to Lubec and Eastport to experience this unique area. While Lubec is the easternmost town in the state , Eastport is the easternmost city .

Both Lubec and Eastport offer fantastic opportunities for whale-watching tours. Additionally, explore several hiking trails in Lubec, including Quoddy Head State Park , Huckins Beach & Trail , Klondike Mountain , and Boot Head Trail .

In Eastport, follow a historic walking tour and traverse Shackford Head State Park . One of the highlights of the area is witnessing the Western Hemisphere’s biggest tidal whirlpool, the Old Sow Whirlpool .

RELATED: Best Maine State Parks (Our Favorite State Parks in Maine)

With so much natural beauty and unique attractions, Lubec and Eastport are must-visit destinations on your Maine road trip. And, here are a few dining options during your visit — Lubec Brewing Company and Tavern Restaurant at the Water Street Inn & B&B in Lubec and The Phoenix on Water Street in Eastport.

Calais (“CAL-iss”), the first railroad town in Maine, is a city located next to the Canadian border and is full of history and culture.

Discover the Saint Croix Island International Historic Site , which commemorates the area where the first French colonists attempted to settle in 1604. Here, you can witness the extraordinary tides and observe the area’s birds, frogs, and seals.

The St. Croix Historical Society celebrates the history of the city and the St. Croix Valley, maintaining the Whitlock’s Mill Lighthouse and the Dr. Job Holmes Cottage & Museum.

For those who love walking, the Calais Waterfront Walkway is a 1.5-mile path along the St. Croix River, offering outstanding vistas of Canada on the opposite shore. It’s a great way to enjoy the area’s natural beauty and learn more about its rich history.

Calais Restaurants

When it’s time for a snack or a meal, Calais has several restaurants to whet your appetite. Here are a few recommendations:

• Jo’s Diner & Pizzeria
• Karen’s Diner and Korner Pub
• Riverview Restaurant & Lounge
• Sandwich Man

Best Route 1 Stops Throughout Aroostook County

Houlton Maine , located farther north, marks the intersection of U.S. 1 with the northernmost end of I-95 and serves as the first stop in Aroostook County on this road trip itinerary. The Meduxnekeag River flows through the heart of the town, offering a picturesque scene at Houlton Riverfront Park, where the Gateway Crossing Bridge crosses the river.

Market Square serves as the downtown hub, spanning more than just one street. Explore monuments, go shopping, and dine until your heart’s content in this historic district. For a unique experience, catch a film at Temple Theater , which has been open since 1919.

To immerse yourself in nature, the Southern Bangor & Aroostook Trail offers a 40-mile hiking trail that connects Houlton to Presque Isle (the next stop on the itinerary). The trail is also open for biking, ATV riding, and snowmobiling, making it a versatile option for outdoor enthusiasts.

Houlton Restaurants

Check out these dining spots as you’re passing through Houlton:

• ShireWood SmokeHouse Southern BBQ
• Houlton Dairy Bar
• The Vault Restaurant

Presque Isle & Caribou

Presque Isle and Caribou Maine are the two largest cities in Aroostook County, offering a variety of historic attractions and recreational activities.

In Presque Isle, witness the beginning of the Maine Solar System , an incredible 3D scale model that spans nearly 100 miles along Route 1. It’s the second-largest model of its kind in the world. You’ll find the sun, Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, and the dwarf planet Ceres in Presque Isle.

The Presque Isle Air Museum commemorates the personnel who served at the Presque Isle Army Airfield and Air Force Base with a collection of artifacts, photographs, uniforms, and other memorabilia. Also, wander the nearly 800 acres of land with well-maintained trails for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing at Aroostook State Park .

In Caribou, learn about the legends of the city at the Caribou Historical Center & Whittier Museum , featuring the former potato farmer who eventually went to California and developed Beverly Hills. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Caribou Country Club Trails and the ski paths at the Caribou High School Ski Center offer fantastic opportunities to see the area’s natural beauty.

While you’re visiting Presque Isle, some good dining options include Ferris BBQ , Riverside Inn Restaurant , and Teresa’s Corner Cafe & Bakery . Meanwhile, The Par & Grill , Rendezvous Restaurant , and Ruska Coffee are ideal dining options in Caribou.

Continuing north on U.S. Route 1, the next stop on this Maine road trip is Van Buren, located on the Canadian border.

The main attraction in Van Buren is the Acadian Village , a collection of 17 relocated and recreated buildings on the St. John River that preserves the lives of Acadians who were banished from Canada and sought refuge here in the early 19th century.

While in Van Buren, enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, skiing, snowshoeing, and horseback riding or ATV riding on the Bangor & Aroostook Trail .

This remote, 61-mile path connects Van Buren to Stockholm, Caribou, Washburn, and Mapleton, taking you through deep woods and fields and along several streams. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of the area and get some exercise at the same time.

Van Buren Restaurants

There aren’t too many options for dining in Van Buren, but you can’t go wrong at either Big Daddy’s Pizza or Tasty Food . They both have delicious menus.

Madawaska Maine, the northernmost town on U.S. 1, is a Canadian border town with Acadian roots where you can experience the town’s unique culture and history.

At the Acadian Landing & Tante Blanche Museum , see the large cross erected where the first Acadians settled on the St. John River. The museum features historic artifacts and buildings, providing a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

For entertainment, catch a film at the Skylite Drive-In , which celebrated its 50-year anniversary in 2023. The drive-in offers amazing views while waiting for the sunset and the film to start, and the snack bar has all the movie treats you need, including popcorn, fried dough with powdered sugar, and fried clams.

Motorcycle enthusiasts will love Madawaska Four Corners Park , a long-distance motorcycle park that has been operating since 2008 and is one of four in the country. Complete the Titanium Butt Challenge by riding all of the Maine Four Corners Experience Tours. It’s a unique and exciting way to discover the area’s natural beauty and history.

TIP: To fully experience Acadian culture, plan your visit for August to attend the Madawaska Acadian Festival . This festival is a celebration of the area’s unique culture and offers the chance to enjoy delicious food, lively music, and traditional dancing. It’s an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the local culture and experience the vibrant spirit of the community.

Madawaska Restaurants

From Acadian dishes to classic American cuisine, check out these restaurants in Madawaska during your road trip visit:

• Jeff’s Pizza & Subs
• Madawaska Tastee Freez

Fort Kent marks the end of this Route 1 Maine road trip itinerary, so make sure to walk America’s first mile at the historical marker for the beginning of U.S. Route 1, which has been standing since 1926. Close to the river is a civic monument dedicated to the spot, adding to the area’s rich history.

Also, trek the 4 miles of the Fort Kent Riverside Trail System , which runs along the St. John River and includes playgrounds, parks, murals, and more.

To learn about the Bloodless War, head to the Fort Kent Blockhouse during the summer. Although the fort was never actually used for battle, it’s a fascinating piece of history. The Fort Kent Historical Society maintains several buildings, including an original Acadian log house from the 1830s, providing a glimpse into the area’s rich history.

During winter, enjoy Alpine skiing, snowshoeing, and snowboarding at Lonesome Pine Trails . Alternatively, plan your visit for the annual Can-Am Crown International Sled Dog Races to witness the beginning of the 250-mile race through Northern Maine from Fort Kent’s Main Street.

Fort Kent Restaurants

Make your last stop on this U.S. 1 road trip memorable by stopping at some of the best restaurants in Fort Kent:

• Rock’s Family Diner
• Sami’s Cuisine & Cocktails

Plan Your Itinerary Along a Route 1 Maine Road Trip

A Route 1 Maine road trip is a unique and exciting way to experience the natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture of Maine. From the southernmost town of Kittery to the northernmost town of Fort Kent, you get to explore charming towns, historic landmarks, and breathtaking scenery.

Along the way, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing, as well as cultural events like the Madawaska Acadian Festival. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, a Route 1 Maine road trip has something for everyone.

So, pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through one of America’s most beautiful regions!

Tiffany Betts is a staff writer and editor with more than 15 years of experience in the industry. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family and playing board and video games — often combining the two.

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VisitMaine.Net – The unofficial guide to exploring the great state of Maine. Not affiliated with any official tourism entities.

Copyright VisitMaine.Net 2023 Images Courtesy Greg and Heather Burke unless otherwise noted.

Ultimate Maine Road Trip Itinerary

With stunning scenery, miles of beautiful coast and impressive wildlife, Maine is the perfect place to head if you want to connect with the natural world. Whether you're in search of peace and quiet or looking to hop between the state's quaint towns and coastline, a road trip around Maine certainly won't disappoint.

It takes 5 days to drive the ultimate 860-mile road trip loop around Maine, visiting beautiful Portland, Augusta, Belfast and Bar Harbor, Greenville as well as Acadia National Park, Baxter State Park, Mt Katahdin and the stunning, rugged Maine Coastline.

Located on the northeast corner of the United States, visit Maine to enjoy its stunning views, winter sports and wonderful historic towns, many of which are perched on the North Atlantic coast. Keep on reading to find out how to make the most out of a 5-day road trip around the state.

The ultimate road trip itinerary in Maine

What is the ultimate maine road trip itinerary.

Famous for its lush green forests and rugged coastline, New England's largest state is actually one of the smaller states compared with other parts of the USA. That means it's the perfect place to enjoy a scenic road trip, without having to spend too much of your trip on the road.

It's possible to comfortably travel an 860-mile road trip around Maine in 5 days, with stops in Augusta, Bar Harbor, Greenville, Carrabassett Valley and Portland.

You'll spend an average of 4 hours per day on the road, though be prepared for a longer stretch on day 3 as you travel from Bar Harbor up towards Greenville.

If you have a little more time for exploring, you could easily add on extra nights at Bar Harbor (to visit Acadia National Park), Moosehead Lake or the Kennebec Valley, or alternatively spend an extra night in York as you travel back towards Portland.

Day 1: Driving from York to Augusta

Starting out in York, the first day of your Maine road trip follows the coast as far as Bath, from where you can visit Popham Beach and Reid State Park, before heading inland towards Augusta.

You should expect a manageable 3 hours 50 minutes of driving on day 1, as some of the 170 miles you'll cover takes you off the interstate and out along the stunning coastal roads.

Road trip route from York to Augusta

From your starting point in York, pick up US-1 to visit Bald Head and Ogunquit before switching onto I-95 to pick up the pace as you head northeast.

If you have a little extra time, you could also consider sticking with the highway a little then turning onto ME-9 which winds through Kennebunkport and Cape Porpoise before joining up with the interstate a little further on near Biddeford.

From the interstate, follow the road into Portland then make your way out of town on I-295 to continue your journey. You'll be skirting Casco Bay, which is full of islands and scenic views so make sure to stop and snap a picture or two.

Approaching Brunswick the highway and the interstate separate. Take Route 1 towards Bath then turn off south through Phippsburg to reach Popham Beach. Returning to Bath you can cross the wide Kennebec River and take Arrowsic Road all the way down to Reid State Park.

Retracing your route back up to Woolwich, stick on US-1 then turn onto ME-127 as far as Dresden. From here, Route 27 runs close to the banks of the Kennebec River before merging onto ME-9 and following it all the way to Augusta.

Things to explore on the way to Augusta

You cannot visit Southern Maine and not visit one of its gorgeous beaches. Old Orchard Beach is a great starting point, located between Ogunquit and Portland.

Located on a beautiful stretch of the Atlantic Ocean, you will find a gorgeous pier, plenty of entertainment, souvenir shops, restaurants and even a carousel here.

And of course, make sure to enjoy a delicious lobster roll on the beach before you set off on the next leg of your ultimate Maine adventure!

Sticking to the coast, you'll arrive at Reid State Park, which is known for its sandy beaches, ledges to climb (if you are feeling adventurous!) and hiking trails. There is even a lagoon, perfect if you are traveling with family, meaning that this park has both saltwater and freshwater beaches.

Where to stay in Augusta: enjoy a cozy retreat

Known as a historic hub that played an important role in Maine's history, Augusta is arguably most famous for Fort Western, a National Historic Landmark. This former British colonial outpost is the oldest wooden fort in United States.

The architecture of the gorgeous Maple Hill Farm Inn is a perfect example of Maine's historic facades. You will have access to the sauna on the property to let off some steam (pun intended) and an outdoor hot rub. There is a fantastic bar on site and the hotel serves made-to-order breakfast so that you can start your day right.

For the ultimate romantic Maine experience, you will find a fireplace in select rooms. This property is located near Maine State House and Maine State Museum.

Click here to skip back to the top.

Day 2: Driving from Augusta to Bar Harbor

You'll have a shorter but no less scenic drive on day 2, as you travel 130 miles on quiet roads through Maine's leafy interior before following Penobscot Bay.

Along your 3-hour drive you'll pass Rockland, Belfast and Ellsworth, with the stunning Acadia National Park a real highlight of the day.

Road trip route from Augusta to Bar Harbor

Follow the Memorial Bridge across the Kennebec River then leave Augusta on S Belfast Avenue. You'll get picture postcard views as you cross Togus Pond, then continue on past Windsor and Somerville.

At the crossroads turn left towards Rockland, where you'll meet the ocean once again and start to follow Route 1 - the Atlantic Highway - north along Penobscot Bay. Look out for beautiful glimpses of the water through the trees.

Stick on US-1 through Belfast and across the Penobscot Narrows Bridge, following it as far as Ellsworth where you join ME-3 to head south on to Mt Desert Island, where most of Acadia National Park is located. The same road will take you all the way to Bar Harbor to complete your drive for the day.

Things to explore on the way to Bar Harbor

Rockland is a stunning Maine town that boasts gorgeous coastal scenery and a majestic rocky shoreline. Make sure to check out the boat tours on the famous Windjammer while in Rockland for a unique experience!

With many historic homes and shops in Rockland too, you can visit The Farnsworth Art Museum and Wyeth Center to learn more about and admire Maine art, including works by the famous Wyeth family.

You can also make a stop here and enjoy a meal at the many restaurants. In fact, Rockland is the capital of the lobster industry in Maine, so it isn't surprising that it was named one of the “Top 9 Small Foodie Towns” in Maine.

You can't visit Maine without spending some time in Acadia National Park. It's an absolutely stunning national park, where you can fish and ski (depending on the time of year) as well as hike gorgeous trails.

Inside the national park, climb Cadillac Mountain to see the sun rise before anyone else in the country. Thunder Hole is also an impressive place to visit, as the breaking waves create their own natural spectacle.

Where to stay in Bar Harbor: watch the sunrise in style

Seeing as Acadia National Park is one of the must-see stops along this route, we'd definitely recommend spending a night or two in nearby Bar Harbor so that you have plenty of time to enjoy the national park, and to relax over a delicious meal after a busy day exploring.

There's also plenty to do in Bar Harbor itself. Pause a while to enjoy the unforgettable ocean views and if you're lucky you might even see whales out in the bay.

For a really characterful stay, book into the beautifully designed Queen Anne's Revenge , where you'll receive a warm welcome.

The hotel also has a beautiful garden to relax in as well as a terrace. There is a daily breakfast with buffet and continental options. The property is a short distance from Agamont Park and The Abbe Museum and West Street Historic District.

Day 3: Driving from Bar Harbor to Greenville

The 220-mile route you'll follow on day 3 takes you inland to visit the stunning Baxter State Park before ending the day at beautiful Moose Head Lake.

It's the longest day of driving on your ultimate Maine road trip, coming in at around 5 hours 50 minutes on the road, so make sure to stop for snacks and fuel before setting out.

Road trip route from Bar Harbor to Greenville

Leaving Bar Harbor, work your way back along ME-3 towards Ellsworth on the mainland, where you'll join US-1A heading north across more of the beautiful Maine countryside. Watch out for lakes and rivers tucked away behind the trees.

From Bangor you'll pick up the interstate, which runs parallel to the Penobscot River for a while. After crossing the river at Medway, follow Main St through Millinocket then turn right onto Huber Road once you've crossed the scenic Dolby Pond.

From here you can make a detour to Roberts Road to reach the scenic Katahdin Loop Road and Scenic Overlook. Explore the area's stunning trails if you have time, especially around Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument.

When you're ready to continue, head back south towards Huber Road and follow it west until you meet up with Millinocket Road. After passing Millinocket Lake, you can choose to drive on the Golden Road, which will take you around the southern side of Mount Katahdin - Maine's highest mountain - following the river towards Ripogenus Lake and then Caribou Lake.

The road isn't fully paved along this part of the drive, so consider the impact that weather conditions will have on the road unless you're traveling in a 4WD vehicle.

Otherwise follow ME-11 past Schodic Lake and switch to ME-6 in Milo, which will take you directly to Greenville.

Things to explore on the way to Greenville

Did you know that Bangor, one of the larger towns you'll pass on day 3, is home to a few celebrities? You could run into Stephen King as you are strolling down Bangor's streets as he owns a house (more like a Victorian mansion!) in the city.

You can also take a Stephen King tour around the city, which will take you to the famous Paul Bunyan statue, featured in the author's beloved scary novel “It”, among other interesting sites.

There is so much to do and explore in this small city, starting with the Cole Land Transportation Museum, which has an extensive collection of cars and trains on display.

Further north you'll reach Baxter State Park. This Maine wilderness haven was created by Percival P. Baxter, who described it as his “magnificent obsession”.

You can take gorgeously scenic hikes, camp in one of the many campsites, spot some adorable wildlife or simply have a relaxing picnic here.

We highly recommend visiting during fall to admire the foliage in the park change into golden and auburn colors.

Where to stay in Greenville: explore the Maine Highlands

Moosehead Lake, where you'll end the third day of your Maine road trip, is the ideal place to spend a couple of nights if you're wanting to head out into the Maine Highlands or even just explore the incredibly scenic area around the lake itself.

An absolutely fabulous place to stay if you're looking for a bit of luxury in your scenic getaway is the Lodge at Moosehead Lake . There isn't much here that can't be described as stunning, from the lake views to the hotel's service, restaurant and gorgeous design.

Another great option which is also more budget-friendly is Leisure Life, Greenville , which also offers superb views and a great location. You can park up here for free and relax at the hotel bar - you'll most likely have earned some downtime after the day's driving and hiking.

Day 4: Driving from Greenville to Carrabassett Valley

After the long and adventurous driving on day 3 you'll probably welcome the much shorter stretch that lies ahead on day 4. It's just 90 miles from Greenville to Carrabassett Valley, which will only take a couple of hours to drive, leaving you plenty of time to stop and explore along the way.

Road trip route from Greenville to Carrabassett Valley

Turning away from the lake, follow ME-6 south past Monson on the way to Abbot. There are rafting companies based along this road if you fancy making an active stop just outside Greenville.

At Abbot turn right onto West Road which leads you to Kingsbury Plantation and Lake. A little further along the road you'll reach Bingham, which sits on the shore of Wyman Lake.

From here, River Road follows the Kennebec River south - with another opportunity for rafting - until you reach Solon. Here, cross the river and take Cross Town Road to join up with ME-16 to Kingfield.

The Carrabassett Valley runs north from Kingfield, offering river views and trailheads.

Things to explore on the way to Carrabassett Valley

Located in Western Maine, Bigelow Preserve and Flagstaff Lake make a stark contrast to the state's coastal towns. You will find alpine landscapes and the pretty Flagstaff Lake views here.

Plus, if you're traveling with your kayak or canoe, Flagstaff Lake is the perfect place to put them to use.

Both are just a short drive further on from Carrabassett Valley, and once you're there you can enjoy hiking trails for all levels of outdoor enthusiasts, including an easy one that is perfect for the whole family.

Of course, this ultimate Maine road trip itinerary isn't only for sun worshippers, beach lovers or foodies. If you are a fan of winter sports, you will find world-class facilities at the Sugarloaf Ski Resort, which is also just a short distance out of Carrabassett Valley. You will get to admire stunning views as you ski or snowboard.

Sugarloaf Mountain is also one of the most popular rock climbing spots in the country with around 270 different routes to explore.

Where to stay in Carrabassett Valley: hit the slopes and trails

As we've mentioned, Carrabassett Valley is known for being home to the majestic Sugarloaf Mountain Ski Resort, which is the largest skiing area in Maine.

There is plenty to do in Carrabassett in other seasons as well, such as hiking, biking, boating, fishing and golfing. You can also take foliage walks, something this area is so famous for.

With direct access to skiing areas and an 18-hole golf course, Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel has something for every traveler. In warmer seasons, you can enjoy hiking and cycling in the area.

After your adventures outdoors, you will be happy to learn that there is also a fabulous outdoor hot tub to soak and relax in at the property. You'll find restaurant options a short drive from the hotel too.

If you aren't traveling with your skiing equipment, you can hire them from the property. There's also ski storage if you have brought your own.

Day 5: Driving from Carrabassett Valley to Portland and York

You'll complete your road trip with another 4-hour drive, taking you the 170-miles from Carrabassett Valley to Portland and York.

Traveling through more of Maine's beautiful green landscapes and passing rivers and lakes before you meet the coast again at Portland, it's the perfect way to end your ultimate Maine adventure.

Road trip route from Carrabassett Valley to Portland and York

The final day of your trip starts out on some of Maine's small, scenic roads, first traveling along ME-27 to Eustis then down ME-16 to Rangeley. Once you've made your way around Rangeley Lake, ME-17 takes you through picturesque forests, rivers and hills to Byron and Roxbury until you reach Chisholm Park.

Here, join US-2 which follows the Androscoggin River through Hanover and Newry. Then, once you reach Bethel, take ME-35 past Waterford and Harrison then along Long Lake as far as Naples.

Crossing the Naples Causeway you'll join Sebago Road, which offers picturesque views and lakeside attractions once it hits the shore of the popular Sebago Lake.

From Standish, simply follow ME-114 all the way to Portland, then pick up the interstate for the final few miles of your trip, heading back south to York.

Things to explore on the way to Portland and York

Located in close vicinity of the scenic Rangeley and Mooselookmeguntic Lakes, Rangeley is a charming town with a laidback character. You will find fantastic golf courses here, as well as the scenic Rangeley Lake State Park.

Wilhelm Reich Museum and Height of Land (a popular scenic overlook) are both a short distance from the town too.

Keeping with the scenic lakes theme of this leg of the itinerary, Sebago Lake is a fantastic place to take a break en route.

This beautiful, clear lake is the second largest in Maine after Moosehead Lake, and is especially popular in summer. You will be able to enjoy watersports, golfing and fishing, sunny beaches and even a float-plane excursion here!

Where to stay in Portland: take a trip back in time

Portland is a beautifully scenic town, full of cobblestone streets and historic houses. You can also indulge your creative side, as the city has a buzzing arts scene.

After the lovely drive from Carrabassett Valley, you'll have plenty of time to end the afternoon sitting back to relax beside Portland's waterfront.

You can also stay nearby at Portland Harbor Hotel , which is in walking distance of the waterfront as well as Wadsworth Longfellow House, Victoria Mansion and Portland Downtown Historic District on foot.

Its central location and beautiful design, which channels a contemporary coastal vibe, means that you have a fantastic choice of restaurants, bars and cafes nearby. Or, if you don't feel like venturing out there's also a restaurant on-site.

Things to see on the ultimate road trip in Maine

By now you'll probably already have several stops in mind for when you make your fabulous Maine road trip, but there's even more to discover if you have the time.

• York - With views across stunning sandy beaches, the Yorks are the perfect place to come for some good old-fashioned seaside entertainment. Head to the Fun-O-Rama arcade and enjoy live music and saltwater taffy as you explore York Beach.
• Ogunquit - The stunning waterside gardens around Ogunquit Museum of American Art make this a must-see stop if you're visiting the town. There's also a lovely stretch of coastline here - said to be one of the country's best beaches.
• Broad Cove Reserve - Trails here take you to more amazing ocean views, starting from a sandy beach.
• Popham Beach State Park - At the mouth of the Kennebec River you'll find this swimming and surfing spot. You can also walk to Fox Island across the beach, but pay attention to the rising tide which cuts off the path at certain times of day.
• Bath - Known as the ‘city of ships', it's no surprise that Maine Maritime Museum is located here. It's also a great place to indulge in some of the state's famous and delicious seafood.
• Reid State Park - This is a bird watcher's paradise, with seabirds nesting in the stunning coastal landscape. You can also follow trails along the headland which will reward you with amazing coastal views.
• Augusta - The state capital has a number of excellent museums, including Maine State Museum and the Old Fort Living History Museum.
• Kennebec Valley - If you can add an extra day to your trip, consider following the beautiful Kennebec Valley from Augusta to Skowhegan.
• St George Peninsula - There's more of the fabulous Maine coastline to explore along this beautiful peninsula, but for a bit of variety this is also a great place to sample Maine wines. The Owls Head Transportation Museum is worth a visit too.
• Rockland - Home to the popular Maine Lobster Festival, Rockland also has a thriving arts scene which you can get to know at Center for Maine Contemporary Art or with a visit to the North Atlantic Blues Festival.
• Belfast - Another artistic stopover, many visitors like to drop in to Belfast's small galleries or enjoy live music and summer Arts Walks.
• Penobscot Narrows - Take a tour up the huge observation tower to admire the ocean from a new perspective.
• Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park - This popular national park is famous for its rugged coastal views and excellent wildlife spotting opportunities
• Bangor - As well as taking a tour of locations that inspired legendary author Stephen King, we'd also recommend checking out Maine Forest and Logging Museum and the Cole Land Transportation Museum.
• Baxter State Park - North Penobscot and Mount Katahdin are both super-scenic areas within this stunning state park, where you can kayak and climb as well as hiking and fishing.
• Greenville - Take a break from the road with a cruise on beautiful Moosehead Lake.
• Bingham - Consider a detour to see more of the Kennebec Valley, which you can explore via US-201. Following this road, you can read The Forks and Moxie Falls, as well as taking an exhilarating white water rafting trip.
• Bigelow Preserve - Pick up the northern end of the Appalachian Trail in this beautiful natural area, which was almost turned into a ski resort back in the 70s.
• Sebago Lake - Cool off at this popular lake a short drive out of Portland. You can take a boat or kayak here too.

Best time to go on the ultimate road trip in Maine

It's possible to visit Maine all year round, but depending on when you travel you'll have a very different experience. You'll encounter snowfall and freezing temperatures through the winter compared to temperatures in the 80s in summer!

Traveling in winter

With temperatures often sitting below freezing, and frequent, heavy snowfall, you'll need to wrap up warm if you're visiting Maine in winter. The coast, where temperatures can hit the high 30s Fahrenheit, is warmer than the interior.

That means Maine is a great winter sport destination, and you can find plenty of places to ski, including Nordic skiing. However, driving can be challenging if you're not used to snowy conditions, although roads are kept as clear as possible.

Out of the peak summer season, you might find that cafes, galleries and other visitor attractions in quieter areas may be closed.

Traveling in summer

With its northerly location, Maine doesn't usually get too hot in summer, and temperatures in the high 70s Fahrenheit can make for ideal hiking. You'll have to pack for the seasons though, as there's frequent rain here even in summer, and occasional dramatic thunderstorms.

While we've mentioned the many stunning beaches you'll visit along the way, we should also point out that the water might feel chilly even in summer.

Expect crowds at Acadia National Park and in the coastal towns, as they're popular destinations for a summer vacation. Consider booking accommodation in advance to be sure of your top picks.

Traveling in spring or fall

The Maine winter can feel very long, with March and November feeling more like winter than spring or fall. Spring is a variable time of year, but don't expect significantly warmer temperatures until late April or May.

By May you'll have a good chance of mild and relatively dry weather if you're spending time outdoors, but remember to take bug spray to guard against the harmless but ever-present wildlife that's likely to try and join you on your hike.

Maine is famous for its stunning fall scenery, but it's also a very wet time of year. With temperatures dropping to around 60 degrees by October, you might prefer to visit in September for the ultimate combination of smaller crowds, mild weather and beautiful sea views.

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The Ultimate 10 Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary

If you’re looking for the best way to experience summer on the East Coast, it’s got to be driving the beautiful coast of Maine.

With over 4,000 islands and the most coastline of any state in the United States, road tripping the coast of Maine is a bucket list item if there ever was one!

Taking a Maine coast road trip encompasses everything that is quintessentially New England in summer, from its seafood shacks to its charming coastal towns to its sandy beaches on the pristine Atlantic coast.

This road trip itinerary includes plenty of scenic Maine coastal drives, small towns worthy of day trips, and yes — plenty of beach time!

Table of Contents

What to Know Before Planning a Maine Road Trip

• Summer is Maine’s high season, and you will seriously need to book ahead — especially for accommodations at the beginning (Ogunquit/Kennebunkport) and end (Acadia National Park) of this Maine itinerary.
• The rental car madness continues into 2022, so know that car rentals can be sparse and expensive at Maine airports. You’ll get a better price on your car rental if you fly into Boston and drive up to Maine — and flights will likely be cheaper, too!
• When I visited in 2021, the labor shortage was very noticeable in many Maine small towns, with several restaurants closed or having limited hours, despite it being the high season . This may continue into 2022, so be flexible when it comes to planning restaurants — always have a backup idea !
• Acadia National Park requires reservations to access Cadillac Summit Road , which you can get here for $6 on recreation.gov , in addition to any national park fees (Tip: if you visit several national parks a year, you can buy the America the Beautiful Annual Pass to waive those fees — it’s only $80 for an entire vehicle for a year!)
• Maine summers can be extremely humid. Prepare accordingly. You may want to swap out some hikes with some beach time, etc. depending on the forecast!

The next section of the post details information about planning your coastal Maine road trip itinerary, including getting to Maine, renting a car, and where to stay along the way. If you’ve got that covered, skip ahead to the itinerary here

How This Maine Itinerary Works

This road trip begins in Southern Maine and ends in Northern Maine. It assumes you are within driving distance of Maine and are bringing your own car.

When I did this Maine road trip, I flew to Boston, Massachusetts from San Francisco. My friend came down to meet me in Boston, where we spent two days, and then we drove up to Maine from Boston.

If you do this Maine road trip from Boston, I suggest renting a car in advance from Boston Logan International Airport. They have the best rates and their location is convenient for the city.

Booking a rental car? I always search using Discover Cars, which sifts through 500+ rental agencies to compare prices for your rental. Find the best prices for car rentals here!

From Boston to the first stop on this coastal Maine is only an hour and a half drive, so it’s easy enough to start your trip there. 

From the end of this itinerary, you could return your rental car in Bangor (the nearest airport to the final stop, Acadia National Park) or you could drive back to Boston if that’s better on your budget. 

One-way rentals are often really pricy, so while this definitely adds time and mileage to your trip, it may be worth it for the cost savings. 

The drive directly from  Acadia National Park  to Boston is about 5 hours with normal traffic, though it may be worse on weekends or holidays.

You can also fly into Portland, ME or Bangor, ME and rent a car in Maine if you want to do less driving and don’t mind paying a little extra for a flight.

Where to Stay in Maine

This itinerary is crafted to be customizable to your personal travel style. Depending on how you prefer to road trip, you can adjust it.

I personally hate moving hotels every night, so I crafted this Maine itinerary with this in might, so that wouldn’t be strictly necessary.

However, if you do the itinerary this way, you may have to do a little more driving in between each stop and that may also involve a small amount of backtracking. 

Alternately, you could move hotels each night to keep moving without backtracking quite so much.

(No matter what, to some extent some backtracking is unavoidable due to the unconnected peninsulas and islands you’ll visit, particularly in Midcoast Maine.)

Here are two ways you could do it:

Recommended Accommodations in Maine

Since there are so many places you could possibly stay along this Maine road trip itinerary, I’ll make each assessment rather brief — you can click through to see more photos and details of each hotel.

Note: I didn’t get a chance to stay at any of these hotels personally, since I was staying with a friend based in Brunswick, which we used as a base for our Maine road trip!

Ogunquit: Colonial Inn (a historic hotel in the heart of town, a 5-minute walk from the beach) or Meadowmere Resort (a large hotel and resort a 10-minute walk from the beach with pool, hammam, and sauna amenities)

Kennebunkport: AWOL Kennebunkport (a modern, private boutique getaway with lush garden surroundings and stunning interior design) or King’s Port Inn (a charming historic inn located in downtown near Dock Square, a 20-minute walk from beaches)

Portland : Hyatt Place – Old Port (a modern, luxurious stay in the heart of the best neighborhood in Portland, the Old Port) or Aloft Portland (a funky boutique hotel a short walk from the Old Port and the Portland Museum of Art)

Brunswick : The Brunswick Hotel (a charming historic hotel in downtown Brunswick along Noble Street with an on-site restaurant) or OneSixtyFive, The Inn on Park Row (a beautifully restored inn in a historic property with a private garden for guests)

Bath: Pryor House B&B (a lovely, homey B&B with fantastic hosts, with great hospitality and attention to detail) or Benjamin F. Packard House B&B (another wonderful B&B with excellent hosts, delicious breakfasts, and a peaceful garden to relax in)

Rockland : Rockland Harbor Hotel (a harbor-front hotel a short walk from the Farnsworth Museum and other downtown amenities) or 250 Main (a modern 3-star hotel with gorgeous decor and beautiful city and sea views)

Camden : Lord Camden Inn (a stunning harborside hotel in downtown Camden, with a fitness center and other amenities) or The Belmont Inn (a luxurious inn with beautiful architecture, decor, and a garden, as well as a tasty daily breakfast)

Bar Harbor : Chiltern Inn (a romantic and elegant inn, perfect for a bit of luxury after national park exploration) or The Inn on Mount Desert (a more down-to-earth inn with amenities like a fire pit and pool table)

Your 10 Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1: ogunquit.

Southern Maine is home to some of the few sand beaches along the Maine coast, which tends to trend rockier as it goes further north.

York, Ogunquit, and Kennebunkport are the three most popular beach getaways in Southern Maine – and in this itinerary, we’ll cover the latter two.

These three beach destinations tend to be quite busy with day and weekend trippers from New York, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts, since it’s a relatively short distance from other points in New England.

A general rule of thumb: the further south you are in Maine, the busier it’ll be – with the exception of Acadia National Park, of course.

I didn’t get a chance to visit York on this trip, but I did get to see both Ogunquit and Kennebunkport.

I have to say that I preferred Kennebunkport, but my time in Ogunquit wasn’t ideal as the remnants of a tropical storm were blowing through (which is why I’m using primarily stock & other people’s photography in this section — my photos are really dark and gloomy!)

Drive to Ogunquit.

The first destination on our whistle-stop tour of the Maine coastline is the charming seaside hamlet of Ogunquit.

Frankly, my experience with Ogunquit was subpar, simply for the fact that the remnants of Tropical Storm Fred made there be a total downpour during my stay in the town. It rained to the point of flooding: hardly what you want on a beach getaway!

However, I did get to eat a meal in Ogunquit and browse some of the shops and restaurants, so here is what I recommend you do when in Ogunquit.

Walk the Marginal Way.

First things first: parking in Ogunquit can be a bit of a nightmare. The parking gets worth the further out towards Perkins Cove you drive.

As you drive towards the pier area, there is a very small municipal lot where you can park for $4 per hour… and that’s assuming you can find a spot! We had no such luck, and it wasn’t even a weekend.

More likely, you’ll have to pay $25 for a day pass for private parking. Alternately, you can park in a municipal lot up the road, also at $4 per hour, but then there is a lot of walking. We parked here at Obed’s Lot.

The Marginal Way stretches from the area near Obed’s Lot to Perkins Cove. I suggest parking at Obed’s Lot because it has a lot more space and the walk along Marginal Way along the coast is spectacular!

Admire all the beautiful buildings of Ogunquit on this peaceful coastal walk that passes Little Beach and Israels Head on a one-mile coastal walkway. It takes about 20 minutes to reach Perkins Cove.

Explore the Perkins Cove and Harbor area.

Once you arrive in Perkins Cove — either via Marginal Way or driving directly to Perkins Cove and parking — it’s time to explore the charms of Ogunquit, particularly the harbor area around Perkins Cove. Here are a few shops worth stopping in.

• Whistling Oyster for whimsical and beautiful jewelry inspired by the sea
• Perkins Cove Pottery Shop has gorgeous ceramic pieces for the home — it’s hard not to leave without something
• Blue Whale Trading Company for beautifully curated pieces from local New England artists

Have the first of many seafood meals.

When it comes time for lunch, hit up The Lobster Shack – it has the best reviews of any restaurant in Ogunquit and good prices to boot given what’s on offer.

I didn’t heed my own advice as the Lobster Shack was totally full when we visited and we had to make alternate plans!

It was pouring rain and we couldn’t find parking downtown, so we hopped back in the car and headed to Rose Cove Restaurant . I ordered the fried haddock tacos and they were just OK. Honestly, I wouldn’t go back.

Walk along the Footbridge.

This manually operated drawbridge is one of the biggest draws to Perkins Cove — just look how cute it is!

Take a stroll over the bridge to complete your walk of Perkins Cove and see it from the other side for perspective (and photo opps!).

Spend the day on Ogunquit Beach.

Time for your first of a handful of sandy beaches in Maine! The main (ha) reason why people come to Ogunquit is for its enormous stretch of sandy shoreline… an anomaly in the mostly rocky coastline of Maine.

The powdery sand and gentle waves mean that Ogunquit Beach is a great place for families who are looking for some calm water to wade in and soft sand to luxuriate on.

End the day with another meal.

If you want more seafood, head back to Perkins Cove for one of the other delicious restaurants. Other recommended places in the area include Footbridge Lobster and The Trap.

If you want something different, the Front Porch has a wide variety of sandwiches and entrées for a break from seafood.

Day 2: Kennebunkport

Spend the day on gooch’s beach..

I hope you didn’t have too much beach time yesterday… because it’s time for what is, in my opinion, one of the best beaches in Maine!

Gooch’s Beach in Kennebunkport is simply stunning.

Lots of sandy coastline means that you can walk nearly a mile on the sand, the cool Atlantic water lapping at your ankles.

Note that the beach is on the narrow side and that during high tide, there can be very little room on the sand for towels!

There is more room on the north side of the beach, as this is where the beach is wider.

Another caveat: parking here is rather pricy, at $25 for a day pass for street parking using one of the meters or the Passport app .

We found it worth it, but if you are staying in a hotel in the area, you may be able to walk instead.

Parking here at Gooch’s will also allow you free parking access to Middle Beach and Mother’s Beach, as it is all one zone.

So you can beach hop to all three Kennebunkport beaches… but frankly, Gooch’s is the best by a decent margin!

Have lunch at the Clam Shack.

Once you’ve soaked up a lot of salt air and need a break from roasting yourself in the sun, head back into downtown Kennebunkport for a delicious seafood meal at The Clam Shack .

Skip their lobster rolls: they’re trifling (who the hell puts a lobster roll on a hamburger bun?! Team hot dog bun for life).

But their fried clams are what they’re known for, and that’s absolutely what you should order.

Their fries and coleslaw aren’t half-bad, either!

Walk around the wharf and harbor.

Once you’ve had a filling meal, digest a little with a walk around the cute downtown area of Kennebunkport.

This area is pretty lively in the summer as well as winter, when you’ll find the festivities for Christmas Prelude, the celebration of Christmas in Kennebunkport Maine .

Since you’re already at the Clam Shack, start with a little wander around the wharf and marina area, where the Kennebunk River heads out to sea.

There are lots of beautiful buildings along this harbor area and the sailboats in the marina are beautiful when they bob in the waves.

Shop around the cute downtown of Kennebunkport.

There are also a lot of shops and galleries you could explore. A few places we enjoyed were:

• Dock Square Coffee House for an iced coffee pick-me-up after lots of time in the sun
• The Candyman for homemade fudge, salt water taffy, truffles, and all sorts of other sweet goodness!
• Fine Print Booksellers for a small but thoughtful selection of books that are perfect for beach reading

Drive to Point Walker.

Kennebunkport is famous for its Bush Compound summer home – you’ll see all sorts of Bush family regalia all over the town.

They take it pretty seriously – even the Clam Shack is shilling Barbara Bush’s book!

If you’re curious to cast an eye on where the Bushes spend their summers, drive to Point Walker , about 10 minutes from downtown Kennebunkport.

It’s absolutely stunning and you’ll be able to spot the Bush compound from here.

Have dinner at one of Kennebunkport’s finest.

Once you’ve had your fill of sightseeing, sand, and sun, it’s time to start thinking dinner. Luckily, Kennebunkport is a really thriving and bustling seaside town, and there are a lot of options.

So far, I’ve had you overdosing on seafood, so I’ll be sure to include a non-seafood option for dinner.

(And don’t worry – the next two days bring us to Portland, for a respite on seafood, before diving back into the seafood mania as we head up the coast!).

• Alisson’s Restaurant : while I may be biased to the name, this gets the best consistent reviews in town and it’s located conveniently right in Dock Square. They’re famous for their lobster poutine, which is just as decadent as it sounds! They also have lobster pizza and lobster mac ‘n cheese. It’s as Maine as it gets!
• Chez Rosa for casual, French-inspired seafood like moules frites as well as non-seafood options like beef bourgignon and French onion soup.
• Old Vines Wine Bar for expertly curated wines and small plates so you can sample your way through a delicious dinner.

Day 3: Portland

Have breakfast at becky’s diner..

One of Portland’s main institutions is Becky’s Diner , and you can’t go wrong following the crowds to eat one of th best, heartiest breakfasts in Portland!

Lines can be long, so arrive early and expect to wait. Don’t miss their wild blueberry pancakes!

Wander around the Old Port.

Becky’s Diner is a short walk from the Old Port neighborhood, so it’s time for a short walking tour of this charming part of town!

There are a lot of cool sights in this area; let me list a few favorites.

First, walk to the fisherman’s wharf area with lots of lobster traps and quintessential New England fisherman vibes.

If you walk from J’s Oysters via the back alleyway to Harbor Fish Market (also a great stop!), you’ll see this view that seems right out of a painting!

Another favorite area in the Old Port is the one stretch of street that remains cobblestoned with beautiful buildings surrounding it (pictured above at the start of this section).

You can find the cobblestoned street pictured above at the intersection of Fore Street and Silver Street but there are some other cobblestone streets around on the side streets in the area.

Getting hungry for a mid-morning snack? Grab Maine-style potato donuts (odd — and frankly not a favorite — but unique to Maine) at The Holy Donut .

Take a harbor cruise.

There are a few short cruises you can take that depart from the Old Port that explore beautiful Casco Bay.

While there are many islands you can access from Portland, on this coastal Maine itinerary we unfortunately don’t have time for that – even with 10 days in Maine!

Instead, hop on a boat for a quick harbor cruise!

I suggest the Diamond Pass run by Casco Bay Lines which leaves at 11 AM and takes 2 hours, returning at 1 PM.

Grab a quick bite before your brewery tour.

Next up on this itinerary is a brewery tour at 3 PM – but you don’t want to sample Portland’s best brews on an empty stomach!

Let’s grab a bite to eat in the Old Port area first so that you can remain conscious for the rest of this Maine itinerary!

There are a number of great restaurants in the Old Port area. Here are our top recommendations for you to choose from:

• Duckfat for delicious French fries fried in — you guessed it! — duck fat. Double up on the indulgence by having it as poutine, Canadian-style with cheese curds and gravy.
• Eventide Oyster Co. for tasty fresh oysters from all up and down New England as well as delicious lobster rolls
• The Thirsty Pig for tasty homemade sausages paired with excellent local beers

Go on a brewery tour.

Maine is burgeoning as a craft beer destination, and Portland is at the very heart of it! There are a number of breweries in Portland proper, as well as many breweries elsewhere in Maine that have pubs and offerings in Portland.

You could do a self-guided tour of a few of Portland’s breweries, but frankly, it’s a lot more fun to do a brewery crawl!

This brewery tour starts at 3 PM and will take you to several of the best breweries in Portland on a guided walking tour.

You’ll get to sample several beers at each stop and see a great representative sampling of the Portland, Maine brewing scene.

Book your brewery tour online here!

Walk up and over Munjoy Hill.

After all those beers, it’s time to sober up with a walk through one of Portland’s most scenic and beautiful communities: Munjoy Hill.

Yes, it is a hill, and it is a bit steep, but it’s really worth the walk as this is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Portland.

Once you reach the crest of Munjoy Hill, there is a cool observatory tower called the Portland Observatory .

It’s a historic maritime signal tower that was built in 1807, and it’s the only remaining tower of this type made of wood known in the United States!

Bonus: there’s also a museum inside, and you can ascend the observatory tower for fantastic views over all of Portland! It costs $10 and includes a tour.

Note: If you do the brewery tour, you will arrive here too late to do the tour as the tower closes at 4:30 PM, but you can see the exterior and maybe head back here on another day if you want to ascend the top and do the museum tour

Head down to the water’s edge.

Once you arrive down at the water, you’ll find the Cleeve-Tucker Memorial marking the end of Portland’s East End neighborhood.

Along the water’s edge, you’ll find a lot of cool food trucks here!

There’s also East End Beach (rather a small beach, but it is possible to go for a dip here) and Fort Allen Park , which offer incredible views over Casco Bay.

Have a delicious dinner in Portland.

As you can see, Portland is all about eating your way through the city!

I’ve already recommended a lot of places above, so you can choose from one of the other sections.

If you want other suggestions, I’d pick: Sichuan Kitchen for delightfully authentic “ma la” spicy Chinese food from the Sichuan province, Boda for Thai street-style eats, or Central Provisions for trendy cocktails and small plates.

Day 4: Portland

Spend the morning on washington ave..

Like its West Coast sister city of the same name, Portland, ME is becoming a hipster-topia.

Nowhere else is that more obvious than on Washington Avenue in South Portland!

Start the day with a delicious breakfast at Portland Pottery Café , a hybrid pottery shop and café.

Their biscuits and gravy is obscenely large and obscenely delicious!

They also have a selection of great sandwiches if you’re not feeling particularly breakfast-y.

The Figgy Piggy is also delicious: fig jam, prosciutto, what could go wrong?

Alternately, you could get a bagel at Forage , which looked really vibrant and popular with locals.

After breakfast, wander down Washington Avenue and explore some of the cool small businesses that have popped up here. Here are a few favorites.

• Maine & Loire : a wine shop with a great selection of wines, though at a high price (I wish there were more mid-budget options)
• The Cheese Shop of Portland : exactly what it sounds like — a delicious local cheese shop with a great selection
• Maine Mead Works for mead (a fermented drink made of honey water!) and Oxbow for beers, particularly their sours

Drive to Portland Head Light House.

Located in Fort Williams Park, the Portland Head Lighthouse is an absolute can’t-miss on any Maine itinerary.

Of all the lighthouses in Maine I saw, this one was my favorite!

The lighthouse is exquisite and there is a coastal trail where you can see a few different viewpoints of the lighthouse with different compositions, which is great for photographers.

There is also a cliff trail that goes on the other side of it, and there is an area where you can walk down to the beach if you want to swim in the water with lighthouse views behind you!

There are also a handful of food trucks in the area: I saw one gelato shop and two lobster shack style restaurants selling seafood sandwiches and fried seafood.

However, I have you getting lunch at the next destination, so only grab something to eat if you’re super hungry or planning to skip the next destination on this list.

Parking is $2 per hour with a minimum of 2 hours (so effectively $4 – honestly, you won’t really want to spend more than two hours here, and even that is pushing it).

Have lunch at Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth.

Two Lights is the name of both a lighthouse and a state park in the Cape Elizabeth area south of Portland.

Two Lights is so named because there are two lighthouses that look almost like twins about 300 meters from each other.

You can see them at the same time, but they are not as close together as I expected.

If you want something to eat, I recommend heading towards The Lobster Shack at Two Lights .

Near the seafood shack, there is a small coastal path where you can walk out to get a better view of the lighthouses as well as a small cove where you could swim if you’ve brought your bathing suit.

Visit the Arts District and Portland Art Museum.

After exploring the Southern Portland area, it’s time to head back to downtown Portland: particularly the Arts District which is centered around the Portland Museum of Art.

This is one of my favorite areas in all of Portland. It’s artsy and funky, it’s full of great local small businesses, and there’s a lot of old-fashioned architecture given new life by the upstart businesses occupying there.

Here are a few of my favorite places in the Arts District area:

• Speckled Ax for wood-roasted coffee — it’s quite unique, I haven’t had anything like it!
• Yes Books for a wonderful selection of secondhand books
• Flea For All for a great flea market on Fridays and Saturdays

After strolling around the Arts District area, you may or may not want to go to the Portland Museum of Art , depending on time, budget, and your interest in art.

The next activity on this list is also a museum, so you may want to opt for one over the other.

Portland Art Museum costs $18 and contains art ranging from 18th century works through to contemporary art.

Do a tour of Victoria Mansion.

The next place is a short walk away from the Portland Museum of Art but it feels a world away!

While the Portland Museum of Art is rather contemporary, the Victoria Mansion is elegant and old-fashioned, almost untouched over the last 200 years.

You can take a tour of the mansion – the final tour finishes at 3:50 PM (summer hours), or you can just check it out from outside if you are on a budget or are not interested in seeing the interior museum.

Tours are required and tickets cost $16. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly on weekends and rainy days.

Explore the neighborhood.

The area around Victoria Mansion is perhaps even more beautiful than the mansion itself!

This is where I found virtually all of my favorite buildings in Portland.

Don’t miss the rainbow-colored row of townhouses (formerly carriage houses, I believe) which are just kitty-corner from Victoria Mansion.

It looks almost like Rue Cremieux in Paris, minus the crowds!

Eat in downtown or head back to Washington Ave for drinks and dinner.

After a full day exploring downtown Portland, you have two areas where you could get a delicious dinner.

If you don’t want to leave the downtown area you’re currently in, here are the places I suggest: Bao Bao Dumpling House (a few blocks away from Victoria Mansion) or Sichuan Kitchen .

Alternately, you can head back to Washington Avenue for some more exploration of this charming part of town! There are a lot of great restaurants that are open for dinner here, many of which are Portland favorites.

• Duckfat for poutine if you didn’t already have it at the other branch in Old Port.
• Cong Tu Bot for delicious Vietnamese food like bun cha (pork patties served with herbs and dipping sauce)
• Terlingua for Mexican food

Day 5: Mid-Coast Maine (Freeport, Brunswick, Harpswell & Islands)

Stop at the outlets in freeport..

If you want to do a little morning shopping, head to the town of Freeport which is known for its outlets and  massive  L.L. Bean.

Take a photo with the giant Bean Boot — it’s cheesy, yes, but it’s a Maine must!

There are a number of good outlets, and I snagged a 40% off blazer at J. Crew, some of my favorite Smartwool socks from L.L. Bean… and tore myself away from the Loft outlet, because my credit card was weeping.

Take a stroll in Brunswick.

Brunswick is a delightful small city in Maine with a vibrant Maine Street  (hopefully you enjoy the pun as much as I do) and great shopping and activities.

It’s home to Bowdoin College and as a result, there are a lot of businesses that cater to its large student population, and the town has a younger feel than other places in Maine.

There is a surprising amount to do in Brunswick! 

Take a walk by the Sea Dog Brewing Company on the Frank J Wood bridge (stop and admire the falls on the other side) to the Topsham side of town, and then take the pedestrian swinging bridge over the river back to Brunswick.

On your way back, walk past Fort Andross (and pop into the flea market there), or go shopping on Maine Street.

Grab something to eat in Brunswick before you go: I suggest Sweet Angel for Thai!

It’s not on Maine Street, but it’s worth the detour.

Take a hike on Orr’s Island.

After you’ve grabbed something to eat in Brunswick, it’s time to burn off that lunch with a hike!

Devil’s Back in Orr’s Island sounds intense, but it’s a relatively easy hike that is incredibly beautiful.

It’s just 2.5-miles round trip with 200 feet of elevation gain, so rest easy that it’s not too strenuous!

Kayak around Bailey Island and stop at Cook’s for lunch.

If you haven’t exhausted yourself with all that hiking and eating, it’s time for one of my favorite things to do in Maine in summer: sea kayaking!

Luckily, you can rent kayaks easily at the rental company stand outside of Salt Cod Café , technically on Orr’s Island but located right next to the cool bridge to Bailey Island.

You could grab a bite to eat at Salt Cod Café, but I recommend saving your appetite for a delicious lobster feast at Cook’s after you kayaking!

Check out the Giant Steps and Land’s End for a great view.

Once you’ve returned your kayak and had a delicious lunch, it’s time to explore a bit more of Bailey Island.

Luckily the island is very small, so it’s pretty easy to see the best of Bailey Island in a quick visit.

First, head to the Giant Steps . This is a short trail where you can see some cool rock formations: a set of volcanic rocks that look like a staircase that perhaps could have been used by a giant!

After, drive to the end of Bailey Island at Land’s End .

Here, there is a small gift store, a memorial to drowned and lost fisherman, and stunning views of other islands further out in Casco Bay.

Finally, on your way back, be sure to stop at Mackerel Cove . This is one of the main harbors in Bailey Island and has an incredible view!

Grab ice cream at Pammy’s.

I know this coastal Maine itinerary is full of food… but that’s the kind of traveler I am (and I hope you are too!)

It may seem crazy to say ‘dessert first’ but I think the vibe of Pammy’s is even more fun during the day.

When we went there was some live music and it was really pleasant to sit in the pink-painted Adirondack chairs and admire Pammy’s vision for her ice cream shop.

I got the coffee heath bar sundae and it was DELICIOUS.

Have dinner at Dolphin Marina & Restaurant.

Finally, it’s time for dinner at one of my favorite restaurants in Maine: Dolphin Marina & Restaurant.

This is a spectacular place for sunset views because it’s out on one of Maine’s “fingers” and therefore is one of those rare East Coast spots that has a spectacular sunset view.

The food is also excellent. I had a jerk salmon sandwich with chili slaw and jammy roasted tomatoes – it was divine.

We also split the crab cakes, which I could have eaten a half dozen of…. easily.

I suggest getting to Dolphin Marina & Restaurant about 1.5-2 hours before sunset. It’s really busy and it takes a while to get your table.

Luckily, there is a great bar area and you can grab a drink while you wait and there are plenty of places to walk and sit with a drink while you wait.

Aim to finish up your meal just before sunset so you can take a walk on the grounds and admire views like those above!

Day 6: Mid-Coast Maine (Bath, Wiscasset, Damariscotta, Georgetown)

Head to the charming town of bath..

Of all the towns in Maine to choose from, Bath is up there as one of the most charming.

Take a walk down Main Street, stop in some bookstores or shops, and peruse to your heart’s content.

If you’re thinking breakfast, I suggest just getting a small pastry from Cafe Creme or Mae’s Cafe & Bakery , because Maine’s largest lobster roll is waiting for you at our next stop!

Wander through Wiscasset.

Route 1 runs through it, and you could blink and miss it — but the charming town of Wiscasset is definitely worth the stop!

Wiscasset is one of those towns that is like a living museum.

There are a lot of information placards throughout the city that showcase all the different architectural styles and buildings and their historical importance.

Another cool place to visit in Wiscasset is the Butter Mold Company . It’s a very unique place where they still make butter molds from scratch.

Bonus: everything there smells like cinnamon and apple pie. The owner is also extremely nice and great to chat with.

Grab one of Maine’s most famous lobster rolls.

Wiscasset is best-known for its famous lobster shack, Red’s Eats. Frankly, there is always a huge line, and the price is not cheap.

The market price for a lobster roll was $35 when I went, compared to other places where it was $20-30!)…

… but their lobster rolls are massive , about double the size of other ones.

I made a mistake and didn’t wait in line at Red’s (I’m a bit contrarian about lines) and went to Sprague’s instead and got a crab roll.

It was disappointing. Do as I say, not as I do, unless you also like disappointment.

Shop in Damariscotta.

There are a bunch of great boutiques and art galleries in Damariscotta . 

In fact, of all the places I shopped at in Maine (which was a devastatingly highly number), my favorite stores were in tiny little Damariscotta, and I even wrote a whole post on this charming small town!

There’s a great brand-new store called Wildings that I highly recommend. It’s hard not to leave with half the store!

If you’re a millennial who loves plants, pots, jewelry, and quirky accessories, you’ll be hard-pressed not to leave without a maxed-out card.

Other things to do in Damariscotta include checking out the excellent bookstore and grabbing a cup of coffee at the adjoining café, walking around the pretty wharf, or visiting the oyster midden.

Wait, oyster midden? An oyster midden is a small ‘mountain’ of oyster shells left behind by the Native Americans who lived in this region for centuries. You can find one unperturbed midden at this park!

Have dinner at Five Islands.

From Wiscasset to   Five Islands Lobster Co.  in the peaceful town of Georgetown, Maine is quite a trek… but it is worth it.

It’s one of the most beautiful restaurants in Maine, hands down!

They serve delicious fried fish sandwiches and lobster rolls (get yours with cilantro mayo!), perfect onion rings, and exquisite steamed lobster dinners. 

The setting, though, almost edges out the food as the main draw. It’s one of the most beautiful harbors in all of Maine, with boats bobbing amidst a close cluster of, well, five islands.

One caveat: mosquitos LOVE this place, more than anywhere else I went in Maine.

And according to the people I went with, it’s always that way. Bring lots of mosquito repellent and suck it up!

Day 7: Rockland

Visit the Olson House in Cushing.

If you’re a fan of Andrew Wyeth, I strongly recommend making a detour to  Cushing  to visit the  Olson House .

When we visited, a majestic black and white horse was just grazing in front of the house, and he came right up to us for pets and scratches!

This is where he painted his most seminal work,  Christina’s World, as well as innumerable other paintings over his nearly 20 years living on the grounds.

The grounds and the house are currently closed for renovations, but you can still see the house from the field from afar, and you can visit his gravestone.

Cushing is a brief 15-minute detour off of Highway 1 on the way ro Rockland, so it’s not a huge sacrifice for a big art history lover.

However, if you don’t have much interest in Wyeth or pastoral landscapes, you can safely skip this part of the itinerary.

Have breakfast at a Rockland Cafe.

Upon arriving in Rockland, it’s time to grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafés in this charming town.

There are a number of places serving breakfast pastries; I suggest Atlantic Baking Co.

Visit the Farnsworth Art Museum.

Rockland is considered the Art Capital of Maine and with good reason: the  Farnsworth Museum  is one of the best art museums in the country! 

The Farnsworth Museum has a rich collection of works by Andrew Wyeth — one of the most famous painters in America — as well as gifts from the Wyeth family, recently bequeathed by Andrew Wyeth’s late widow and muse Betsy Wyeth, who passed away in 2020.

There is also a large collection of contemporary art by Mainers and other New England artists.

Stroll and shop down Main Street.

Rockland is an arty little town and that extends beyond just the Farnsworth!

There are a number of excellent galleries and boutiques that are worth window shopping — or entering, if your wallet dares!

Grab a beer at Rock Harbor Pub & Brewery.

Once you’ve had your fill of Rockland, grab a drink and maybe a bite to eat at the Rock Harbor Pub & Brewery.

Don’t have too late a night — we’re going to wake up bright and early for a morning hike tomorrow!

Day 8: Camden

Take a hike in camden hills state park..

Camden is best known for its beautiful state park,  Camden Hills State Park , just a few miles north of the city of Camden but feeling like a world away!

Camden Hills State Park has a lot of wonderful hiking trails available. You could hike up the trail to  Mt. Battie (it’s about 3.1 miles with 800 feet of elevation gain).

You can also drive up to the summit if you’re unable to hike… no shame or judgment here: these beautiful views are for everyone!

At the top of Mount Battie, you’ll be treated to incredible views over Camden Harbor and the islands off the coast of the mainland dotting Penobscot Bay. It’s spectacular and you’ll absolutely want to spend some time up here, relaxing, meditating, taking pictures, perhaps eating a picnic lunch if you hiked.

From Mount Battie, you can even spot Cadillac Mountain on Mount Desert Island off in the distance on a clear day!

For a much more intense hike, Mount Megunticook is an option. It’s a moderate hike, 3.8 miles roundtrip with about 1,000 feet of elevation gain (and then of course, just as much elevation in descent).

Bring lots of water and a snack, and be prepared for the hike.  Read trail reports here .

Unfortunately, during my visit to Maine I was having a chronic pain flare-up and wasn’t able to hike, but my friend has hiked Megunticook several times and insists it’s one of the most beautiful hikes in Maine.

Grab a bite to eat.

After your Camden Hills exploration, you’ll probably be hungry.

We wanted to eat at Merriner’s, which is excellent and came highly recommended by my friend, but we arrived too late (lunch ends at 2 PM!).

Instead, we had a Cuban sandwich next door at Camden Café and it was delicious – and the views of the harbor are impossible to beat.

Stroll and shop in downtown Camden.

Camden is one of the most charming small towns in coastal Maine and there is so much to do and see in Camden that I’ve written in a blog post here !

You should definitely spend some time walking around the Harbor area and the Harbor Park , shopping at some of the shops on Main Street and Bay View Avenue , and admiring Megunticook Falls in the harbor.

Take an afternoon swim at Laite Memorial Beach.

If you’re feeling hot and sticky after all that hiking and walking and eating, it’s time to refresh yourself in the small but lovely beach just beside the harbor at Laite Memorial Beach.

It’s not the largest beach nor the most beautiful, but I loved going for a cool refreshing dip on the sandy/pebbly beach and bobbing in the water with sailboats off in the distance. It was magical.

Go sailing on the bay.

Finish your magical day in Camden in the most magical way…

… on the sea on a boat cruise to explore the Bay and even get to see the beautiful Curtis Lighthouse on an island off the shore.

You may also get to see wildlife like seals, cormorants, porpoises, and more – and perhaps even some lobstermen pulling in their traps!

Day 9: Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park

Drive to mount desert island and visit sand beach..

Let’s leave Camden bright and early to make our way to our final stop on this coastal Maine itinerary: Mount Desert Island , home to Acadia National Park .

Once you arrive at Mount Desert Island and check into your Bar Harbor hotel, it’s time to hit the ground running… or relaxing!

Since this itinerary has been pretty fast-paced, I think a little relaxation by the ocean is in order.

Although most of Mount Desert Island’s coastline is composed of rocky cliff faces (like much of Maine), there is one sandy ocean beach hidden inside Acadia National Park for all to enjoy!

Sand Beach is about a 20-minute drive from the Bar Harbor town center and is one of the first attractions along the Park Loop Road. The parking area tends to fill up quickly, so be prepared to scout for a parking spot.

The beach is staffed with park lifeguards to make swimming in the chilly water safe for all the brave souls that choose to do so.

Though lately, Maine’s water has been warmer than ever before… a bittersweet side effect of the sad reality of global warming.

Sand Beach is the perfect spot to set up for a sunny afternoon with a picnic, beach chairs, and plenty of sunblock — that New England summer sun is no joke! 

Hit one of the hiking trails.

If you’re not interested in swimming, there’s still plenty to do in this area, such as searching through tide pools and walking the shoreline to search for shells.

There are a couple of fun trails that take off from this area too. One of the nearby trailheads is for the Great Head Loop Trail , which starts on the east side of Sand Beach.

The shorter loop option is 1.6 miles around and offers spectacular panoramic views of the area, including a scenic overlook of Sand Beach.

If you want to add a more challenging hike to your Acadia itinerary on the first day, the trailhead for the  Beehive Trail , a tough but rewarding 1.6-mile loop, is located right near Sand Beach.

It uses iron rungs to climb up the more difficult part of the trail. Be extremely careful here as some hikers have died. Do not descend the same way you ascended.

If you begin the hike, be prepared to finish it so that you do not endanger people who are coming up the iron rungs. This is not one for those with a fear of heights!

Stroll around Bar Harbor .

After soaking up the sun and relaxing the afternoon away, it’s time to head into town and enjoy all the cool things to do in Bar Harbor!

Bar Harbor is a charming New England coastal community with quirky boutique shops and amazing seafood restaurants.

Before dinner, take a walk along the Shore Path , which begins at the Town Pier . This short path offers beautiful views of the boats anchored in the harbor for the evening.

Have dinner at The Terrace Grille

Dine right on the water at this gorgeous restaurant!

The outdoor seating is decorated with beautiful yellow umbrellas and offers five-star views of Frenchman Bay and the Porcupine Islands. Not only are the views great, but the food is too!

Keep it classic with a boiled Maine lobster or indulge and order the Maine Lobster Bake.

The portion size is no joke, and definitely not for one: it comes with all the goods including New England clam chowder, steamed mussels and clams, over one pound of Maine Lobster, seasonal sides, and homemade blueberry pie!

Grab a cone at Mount Desert Island Ice Cream

Hope you saved room for dessert. Is any evening by the ocean complete without an ice cream cone? You already know the answer to that question!

The ice cream from Mount Desert Island Ice Cream is unlike any you’ve had before. Maybe it’s the premium flavors mixed with the ocean air, or maybe it’s the care that goes into every homemade batch. Yum!

Day 10: Acadia National Park

Drive the park loop road.

Roll the windows down and let in that warm sea breeze as you head out to tour Acadia’s Park Loop Road.

The 27-mile road loops around Acadia National Park, and it is one of the best scenic drives in Maine, taking you from the ocean to the mountains and everywhere in between.

Set aside at least half a day to make the drive. There are lots of places to stop along the way, but here are some of the best sights.

Stop at Sieur des Monts.

Sieur de Monts is the heart of Acadia National Park and one of the first attractions you’ll see when driving the scenic Park Loop Road.

This area is home to many sights, including the Sieur de Monts Spring, Acadia Nature Center, Wild Gardens of Acadia, Abbe Museum, and historic memorial paths.

See Thunder Hole with your own eyes (and ears!)

Thunder Hole is named after the booming sound like thunder that the ocean waves make as they slam against the rocky shore.

The force of the wave pushes air and settled water to the surface, creating a loud “thunderclap” made of water.

The small rocky inlet at Thunder Hole may not be as wild at low tide, so don’t be disappointed if you see it and it doesn’t live up to its name.

Check a tide chart and wait for some choppy water to come in with the high tide, and you’re sure to hear what all the hype is about.

Marvel at the views at Otter Point .

Less than a mile past Thunder Hole, there will be a parking area for Otter Point.

This rocky shoreline is named after Acadia National Park’s spunky river otters. The most impressive feature at this stop is Otter Cliff, which stands an impressive 110 ft high!

This is a great spot to hang out in the sun and watch the ocean waves crash over the rocks.

  Lunch at Jordan Pond House Restaurant

After a morning of sightseeing, it’s time for a well-earned lunch break.

Famous for their mouth-watering popovers, the Jordan Pond House Restaurant is every foodie’s dream come true.

Take a hike around Jordan Pond Loop Trail .

After all that eating I’ve had you doing on this trip, It’s time to get a little hike in. Wouldn’t you agree?

The beautiful 3.5-mile loop trail around Jordan Pond is the perfect place.

This scenic hike will take you along the shore of the pond, on a flat but rocky trail. Sturdy shoes are recommended for this trail.

Head home to end your time in Vacationland.

Whether you make the long drive back home or to Boston, or the shorter drive to Bangor to drop off your rental car and catch a flight, it’s time to say “see you soon” to Maine.

Make your plans to come back to Maine in other seasons. You’ve seen the glory of the summery coast. Plan to see the riotous fall colors or experience the desolate but sublime winter beauty.

Know that it’s not goodbye, but rather see you later: your first trip to Maine is just the beginning of a lifelong love!

Allison Green is a former teacher who has been travel blogging since 2016. She has a Masters in Teaching and a B.A. in English and Creative Writing. Her blog posts merge her background as an educator with her experience traveling to 70+ countries to encourage ethical, meaningful travel. She has been a speaker at the World Travel Writers Conference and her writing, photography, and podcasting work has appeared in National Geographic, CNN Arabic, CBC Canada, and Forbes, amongst others. Now a full-time traveler, she has lived in Prague, Sofia, New York City, and the San Francisco Bay Area.

8 thoughts on “The Ultimate 10 Day Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary”

We are planning a trip to Maine in the fall. I absolutely love this itinerary. Thank you so much for all the details!!

You’re welcome! Have a great time and enjoy those beautiful fall colors!

Found your suggestions very informative. We will be heading to Main in August and can’t wait to get there! Thank you

Thank you Harry, I hope you enjoy and that you have some beautiful weather! It can be quite humid in August so be prepared!

I am planning a trip to Maine for this month and got lots of great ideas from this! I have been through coastal southern Maine and the goal is to make it to Acadia this time! Thanks!

Oooh so happy to hear that! You will love the Northern parts, it’s so special! Enjoy 🙂

Please send a brochure on Maine Coast tours

I don’t have brochures, this is a travel blog. Try contacting the Maine tourism board (google that phrase).

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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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4 Days In Maine Road Trip Itinerary: Guide For First Timers

Are you looking for a 4 days in Maine road trip itinerary?

If it will be your first time in Maine, you have arrived at the right place. Even if it’s not your first time.

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Last summer we spent four days in Maine, which was our family’s first road trip to Maine. But, not like most people who started their Maine road trip from Portland, we started from the west side of the state.

Our 4 days in Maine road trip was part of our road trip to New England from Texas . Maine was our third stop in New England after Vermont and New Hampshire. We started from Vermont after visiting Niagara Falls in New York.

You might wonder how many days in Maine you need to see the state. The answer is it depends on what you like to see. There are so many things to do and see in Maine. Definitely one visit is not enough, and we talked about a few more Maine road trips in the future.

Our family likes nature, the outdoors, and history. We also like to make stops when we see something unique along the road.

Therefore, this Maine itinerary is heavy on nature and history that you won’t want to miss on your 4 day trip to Maine for the first time. After all, Maine’s nature is absolutely amazing! 

In addition to that, we traveled with our dog Snoopy. So, I had to make an itinerary that suited a trip to Maine with a dog. At the end, we had no problem at all with Snoopy tagged along on the trip. We found that Maine is one of the pet-friendly destinations in the U.S.

Also, we traveled with our teardrop, a tiny travel trailer. So, our accommodation was a RV Campground.  

Now, grab a cup of coffee and let’s go through our 4 days in Maine road trip itinerary.

4 Days in Maine Road Trip Itinerary

As I mentioned above, we started the road trip to Maine from the west side of the state. We left from Lincoln, New Hampshire after spending 2 nights in the beautiful White Mountains area.

Just a little over an hour drive, we arrived in Gilead, the first town in Maine on US-2 E.

On this four days in Maine road trip, I didn’t make a strict itinerary. I chose 2 or 3 must see in the area for a day, and stopped wherever we saw something unique or interesting.

Day 1 of 4 Days in Maine Road Trip Itinerary – arrive in Maine and stop at Augusta and Bangor.

From Lincoln you can drive straight to Augusta, the capital of Maine via NH-112 E and I-95 N. Go visit the State House and the Old Fort Western, the oldest surviving wooden fort in Maine and New England, built in 1754. It takes around 2h 45 min drive to get to Augusta.

Then continue on I-95 N to Bangor for about 1h 15 min drive. Here you will make a quick stop at Stephen King’s house and the 31-foot statue of Paul Bunyan.

Between 30-60 minutes later you will arrive at your accommodation in Ellsworth, Trenton, or Bar Harbor. It depends on where you plan or get a place to stay.

Or, you can follow our driving direction, directed by the GPS from Lincoln to Trenton.

Our plan was to drive through Augusta, the capital of Maine and Bangor, to see the Paul Bunyan statue and Stephen King’s house. But that’s not where the GPS took us.

From Lincoln we drove through US-2 E towards Maine. When we got to Bethel in Maine, the GPS directed us to stay on US-2 E instead of turning to ME-219 E to Augusta. Coming from Texas, we thought traffic was probably bad toward Augusta.

Not long after that we hit Newry. A small town that later I found out has an incredible waterfall, the Step Falls . But, we didn’t stop here. 

Then we arrived in Rumford. Here, we were welcomed by the Paul Bunyan statue near the Information Center. Next to him was his traveling pal “Blue” and his Adirondack chair. Behind the Information Center is the Falls.

Rumford is home to Black Mountain of Maine ski area, where competitors from all over the world have competed in national and world championship events. 

After we drove around town a bit, we continued on our journey to Trenton, where we stayed for 3 nights in Maine.  

A couple of hours later we saw a traffic sign to Bangor, but we decided not to stop. A visit to Stephen King’s house can wait, and we saw the Paul Bunyan statue already. It may not be as tall as the one in Bangor, but we thought it’s enough.

About 45 minutes later we arrived at Timberland Acres RV Park in Trenton. After light supper, we drove to Acadia National Park.

That’s what you are going to do also after checking in at your hotel or RV Campground wherever you will stay.

Daylights in summertime are longer, so don’t go straight to rest. We got to walk around Jordan Pond, one of the spots in Acadia that you must see.

Our family stayed in Trenton because we couldn’t find a place to stay on Mount Desert Island. That’s where Acadia National Park, the main destination in Maine , is located. Trenton is the closest one to Mt Desert Island.

Day 2 of 4 Days in Maine Road Trip Itinerary – explore Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island.

A visit to Acadia National Park is not complete without driving to Cadillac Mountain. Most people go to catch the sunrise. You must make a reservation to drive the Cadillac Summit Road .

We didn’t get to see the sunrise because the slot was full. So, we went to the next earliest available slot time which was 7.30am. 

This is what you are going to do on your second day in Maine. If you are lucky, you will get to see the sunrise from Cadillac Summit. If not, get the earliest one. Enjoy your time at the summit.

From Cadillac Mountain you will drive the Park Loop Road, a 27-mile (43 km) scenic-drive around the east side of Mount Desert Island. This one-way road connects Acadia’s lakes, mountains, and shorelines.

Popular areas along the road are Sieur de Monts, Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Otter Point, and Jordan Pond. You are going to visit each one of them. 

Normally, we put 2-3 hikes on our trip. But on this first visit to Maine itinerary, we didn’t go hiking at all. After checking out places we wanted to see and the time it would take from one place to another place, I decided to do the hikes on the next trips. But, we could stretch our visit to each spot.    

If you’re not into plants or gardens, you can skip Sieur de Monts. Or, make a quick stop. 

Sand Beach is a popular spot in Acadia, so the parking lot gets full fast. Since dogs are not allowed on the beach, my husband stayed in the car with Snoopy. 

The warmest water temperature in Sand Beach is between 55 and 60 degrees in August. Despite this, swimming is popular all summer. As for my son and I, walking in the water was enough for us. We were there in late June and it was icy cold. Brr!

Don’t forget to pack your swimsuits if you want to dare the Atlantic Ocean cold water. Hehe..

Your next stop is Thunder Hole, followed by Otter Point. The drive between Sand Beach and Otter Point, sometimes referred to as Ocean Drive, is one of the most popular and congested areas of the park. If you can’t find a space to park, you can try to come back at a different time. Or, ride the Island Explorer, the free shuttle in the park.   

Your last stop in the loop is Jordan Pond.

If you get to visit Jordan Pond the day before, continue your drive to Seal Harbor. Stay on ME-3 E, you will arrive at Northeast Harbor. These two towns are way quieter than Bar Harbor. There’s a Little Hunters Beach in Seal Harbor. 

Our family had lobster lunch at The Nor’Easter Pound & Market in Northeast Harbor. We went there not because we read reviews of the restaurant. It was lunch time and parking around town was full. We drove around and found this restaurant with a view of the harbor. And, Snoopy could sit with us on the patio.

From Northeast Harbor you will go to Bass Harbor to see the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. One of the must-see lighthouses in Maine.

You will make a loop on the west side of the park. Start on driving on ME-198 N/ME-3 N for about 6.5 mile to the north. Then turn left towards Pretty Marsh on ME-102 S. Continue on ME-102 N to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.     

Arrive at Bass Harbor. After touring the lighthouse ground to the right side, walk to the left side of the lighthouse. The stairs will take you to the rocks where a lot of people, including professional photographers, take pictures of the famous Bass Harbor Head. Too bad there were lots of people that day. 

From Bass Harbor take 102A towards Southwest Harbor. You will pass Wonderland, Seawall, and Manset. Wonderland is a good place for tide pooling.

We made a quick stop at Wonderland. When driving through Manset and Southwest Harbor fog was starting to move to land.

Final destination on this second day in Maine is Bar Harbor. About 25 minutes drive from Southwest Harbor. 

You will take ME-102 N and turn to ME-233 E/Eagle Lake Rd to Bar Harbor. On ME-102 N you will see a sign to Echo Lake Beach. It’s another popular swim spot in Acadia NP.

Bar Harbor is a busy coastal town. I hope luck is on your side so you will get a parking spot here.

Day 3 of 4 Days in Maine Road Trip Itinerary – explore Schoodic Point and drive to Lubec.

Today you will visit Schoodic Peninsula, the only part of Acadia National Park found on the mainland. Then go to Lubec, the easternmost town in the U.S.

From our accommodation in Trenton it takes around 50 minutes to Schoodic Peninsula. It is around 60 minutes from the Hulls Cove Visitor Center on Mount Desert Island.

You will drive on US-1 N and follow ME-186 N towards Winter Harbor. Schoodic Peninsula entrance is after Winter Harbor.

When driving on ME-186 N, you will see a coffee shop called The Bakery on the right side. It’s not too far from an entrance to the Schoodic Peninsula. Stop by for coffee and baked goods.

We didn’t know about The Bakery until we drove by it and saw cars parking and people were waiting outside this small house. So we turned around and I walked to check what that was. Everyone ordered coffee and baked goods, but we left with baked goods only since we don’t do coffee. 

A couple of weeks before we left, a storm damaged parts of the Schoodic Peninsula. It caused the park to close the road to Wonsqueak Harbor and Birch Harbor. We entered and left the park from the same spot.

Fog was quite thick that day. It felt like we visited a mysterious area. We made a quick stop at every automobile turnout until we got to Schoodic Point.

Immediately I fell in love with Schoodic Point. We were mesmerized by the huge granite ledges that turned the Atlantic Ocean waves into lofty geysers. It’s an amazing nature show that we stayed there for an hour! 

While there, make a visit to the Rockefeller Welcome Center in Schoodic Institute. You will see the sign to the right before you reach Schoodic Point. 

Another stop to make is Blueberry Hill. Weather permit, you can see Schoodic Point from here, and Little Moose Island. Across the road is a steep slope called The Anvil. There’s a trail to take you to the summit. 

About two miles from here, the park ends at Wonsqueak Harbor. If the road is open, after about two miles beyond the park you will get to the villa of Birch Harbor and the intersection of Route 186. Stay on ME-186 S to Gouldsboro, then turn to US-1 N towards Lubec.

If the road is closed like when we were there, you will go back to where you started. 

Before leaving for Lubec, grab basket lunches and ice cream at Me & Ben’s Dairy Creme. It’s right at the corner after you left Schoodic Peninsula entrance. When we were there, they had lobster rolls and it was delicious!

If Lubec is the easternmost town in the U.S., you will go to West Quoddy Head Lighthouse in Lubec, the easternmost point in the U.S. It takes around 1h 40m to get there from Winter Harbor.

You will drive on US-1 N and pass several small towns. You may want to stop, but save it for on the way back.

If you like taking pictures by the town sign, then stop for a picture at Lubec’s sign. From here drive straight to West Quoddy Head Lighthouse.

There’s a Visitor Center on the first floor of the lightkeeper’s historic residence. Too bad it was closed during our visit because of the pandemic. There are hiking trails and nature walking, too, and Quoddy Head State Park. And they said you may see a whale or two when visiting in the summer. 

It was foggy above the ocean during our visit, so we couldn’t see Canada. We went to Rocky Beach and climbed the coastal trail.  

If it’s clear during your visit, go visit the town of Lubec . We didn’t do it because the fog was moving to land.

Two things we found out when we got to West Quoddy Head: the time changed to Canadian time, and our cell phone provider turned to international roaming.      

Our plan on the way back was to drive through coastal towns in downeast Maine. We turned left onto ME-191 N to Cutler. It’s a small fishing village, nobody’s outside, and fog was already on land. The harbor view looked like it was in a horror movie. 

In the end, we decided to cancel the drive through Maine’s coastal towns because fog was moving fast to the mainland. If it’s clear during your visit, I suggest you drive through coastal towns and make stops.

Personally, I think we will need a special 2-3 days just to visit the coastal towns in down east Maine.

Day 4 of 4 Days in Maine Road Trip Itinerary – leaving Maine to New Hampshire, stop at Portland, Portland Head Light, and Nubble Lighthouse.

Last day in Maine, you will drive on US-1 S to Portland all the way to North Hampton in New Hampshire along the coastline.

But first, make a stop at Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory in Prospect, around 45 minutes drive from Trenton. We didn’t know about these places until we drove through it.

Fort Knox is America’s first fort named after Major General Henry Knox. It is one of the best-preserved examples of coastal defense fortifications constructed in the mid-1800s. Dogs are welcome to explore the fort with you.

The Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory (The PNO) is the tallest bridge observatory open to the public in the world. You will ride Maine’s fastest elevator up 420’ to the observatory deck. From above you can enjoy the breathtaking 360 degree views of the Penobscot Region. Dogs are not allowed.

It will take around 3h 20m drive from Trenton to Portland. About an hour before you get to Portland, you will get to Wiscasset. Red’s Eats, the famous lobster shack is located here. You will drive by it and you can see a long line of customers waiting for their lobster rolls. If the line is not long, stop for the lobster.

Portland is one of the popular destinations in Maine. So, expect a lot of tourists in town especially in summertime. We couldn’t find a parking spot while there, so we went straight to Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth. Portland Head Light is also one of the must-see headlights in Maine. 

If you are lucky enough to get a parking spot, go to the Old Port and have some French fries from Duck Fat. Also, don’t forget to get donuts at Holy Donut.

From Portland Head Light drive to Nubble Lighthouse in York. You will still drive on US-1 S for about an hour and a half.

Nubble Lighthouse will be your last destination in Maine before you continue to spend a few days in Boston.

Again, you may want to stop at every coastal town between Acadia and Portland, and Portland until you cross the border to New Hampshire. For this first trip, you just won’t be able to do it. I truly think you will need a special trip just to visit coastal towns in Maine.   

After leaving Maine, our family stayed at Sea Coast Camping and RV Resort in North Hampton, New Hampshire. That’s our base when we explore Boston for the next two nights. It takes around 1h 20m to get to Boston Common, without the traffic.

Well, this is our family’s version for a 4 days Maine road trip itinerary. Feel free to ask me questions and I’m trying my best to answer them.

Thank you for sharing this:

Umiko Buhl is a travel blogger and the founder of Two Worlds Treasures. She travels around Texas to neighboring states and around the country with her family and dog from their family home in the south of Dallas/Fort Worth. Originally from Indonesia, she tries to go home every 2-3 years to spend time with her families and friends while exploring Indonesia. Her mission is to share her honest reviews of places she visited.

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33 comments.

It is always nice to explore beyond what was initially planned. It was nice to see you spending ample time to experience instead of rushing through. Maine certainly looks a lovely place to be in. Add to that a road trip gives one the freedom to do as you like. Nice post. Loved reading and knowing more.

I had not realized Maine has such a gorgeous sounding coastline! But it sounds like you had an amaaazing four days. I loved the sound of Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island best. Yay that you got some hikes in. 🙂

I love that you gave yourself the time to stop and see places that weren’t on your original itinerary, like the bakery you discovered. I think that’s the best way to take a rroad trip and explore! Maine has so much to offer in history and beautiful scenery. Have to admit I’m a bit jealous!

You are right. Road trip is not about chasing target to put everything in the list. You must let yourself wandering to explore places that you have never heard before. I hope one day you can visit Maine.

I love Maine! I can’t believe that I’ve never been to Acadia National Park as many times as I’ve been in the state. I need to get there sometime! We used to go up there every summer and stay on a lake. Good times!

Yeah! You must go to Acadia. It became one of my favorite National Parks now.

A great tip for first-time travelers because I haven’t been to this region yet, and I don’t know much of Maine’s tourist attractions. But I have always been delighted with pictures of the lighthouses on this coast. I especially love to see Portland Head Light.

Maine has longgg been on my travel bucket list — I reallyyy hope to go someday (there’s a lot of hiking I’d love to do at Acadia National Park)! A road trip seems like a great way to go explore!

I want to go back just for hiking trips at Acadia. Hope you will make it there soon.

This looks like such a fun trip. We are huge road trip fans and I always love to get ideas for the future. I have never been to Maine but it looks absolutely beautiful! My highlight for the rod trips are always the national parks, so it’s great that there was some along the way. I love it that Snoopy got to go with you!

I hope one day you can go for a road trip to beautiful Maine.

I am a big fan of lighthouses and love the one you highlighted. Acadia National Park is on my bucket list, but after reading your post I think I have to come up with the road trip in Maine. Thanks for highlighting.

I love lighthouses, too. I wish we could visit more of them, but I guess I will have to come back for it. And yeah, you must do a road trip to see them.

Maine has so many great places to see. My favourites would be Cadillac Harbor and Fort Knox. Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is also a must for me, I’m sure the views are so pretty too. A great 4-day itinerary.

You must put Maine in your itinerary next time you come to the U.S.

I understand why you stayed 1h at Schoodic Point, even on the pictures it looks so mesmerising! Hope to visit Maine one day – thanks for the inspiration!

Right? Even my dog mesmerized by it.

I have never been to Maine before. To be honest, being a nature lover, I would definitely love to visit Maine. I’m surprised as to how many things it offers. Thanks for the insightful post.

I’ve never been to Maine, but this seems like a very useful guide for when I do eventually get to go. Seems like such a fun trip.

My friend just took her family on a road trip through Maine and they had the best time! I would love to take my kiddos on a trip like this. Schoodic Peninsula sounds like a place I would really like to spend some time.

Your family will enjoy the trip to Maine! Don’t blame me if you want to go back after your first visit.

We spent a week wandering around Maine and sure did not feel like we saw it all. I agree with you that more than one trip is needed. We want to go back and spend more time exploring Acadia National Park. Although even this Canadian would find the water temperatures too cold! We may even head down from the Canadian side one day.

Yeah! Maine is pretty! Our original plan was to cross to Canada while there. Too bad the border was still closed at that time. Next time we will make it.

Maine is such an underrated destination in the USA so I loved to read about your fantastic experiences there! Acadia National Park is a bucket list item, and I didn’t realize how much there was to see near there – like the Paul Bunyan statue. Schoodic Point sounds like an area I would love – dramatic landscapes and coastal areas are my favorite.

I think is underrated for people from overseas. Acadia National Park itself is in the top 10 of most visited National Parks in the U.S.

Sounds like 4 days of absolute fun and from your description, lovely landscapes too. I particularly loved the 2nd day with Acadia park. A little bit of beach fun would definitely make a great stop. I love the way you have shared detailed road directions and suggestions on pit stops.

Acadia is really amazing! You won’t be disappointed at all.

I feel in love with Maine while driving the Downeast Highway. So many lighthouses and lobster shacks yet so little time! This brought back some amazing memories. I visited Acadia National Park off season, which was great because I was the only one on the road. I need to return to take a carriage ride and have tea at Jordan’s Pond. Thanks for sharing!

I fell in love with Maine, too. I must go back because I didn’t get a chance to do the carriage ride and have tea at Jordan Pond. I hope I can visit off season.

Much of the area closes during off season, be sure to call ahead and ensure what you want to do is available

Thanks for the heads up.

I’ve never been to Maine, which is sad considering I used to live in NY, and now I am in Florida so I am further away. I would love to see some of the lighthouses.

Aww… That is sad. I hope one day you can visit the lighthouses in Maine.

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The Ultimate Maine Road Trip Itinerary Guide

Maine is one of our favorite states in the United States and without a doubt one of the best road trips in the USA. With so many beautiful landscapes and unique views, it’s hard not too. That is why we want to help you plan the most epic Maine road trip with the “must-see” stops. We try to visit Maine every year as it has many beautiful landscapes and unique views in every season. The best weather to visit Maine is during late Spring, Summer and early Fall.

Maine will steal your heart with its beautiful scenic roads, stunning lighthouses, delicious lobster rolls, and breathtaking national park, Acadia. We have added the best stops you must include into your Maine road trip itinerary from where to eat to where to stay. While we recommend the hotels we have experienced, Maine also so many cute and romantic Airbnbs that it is worth comparing prices.

Maine has a spectacular combination of welcoming people, delicious food and multi-generational activities. No matter your age, race or gender Maine has something fun to offer to every visitor.

When visiting the midcoast of Maine you will quickly come to enjoy the slow pace and relaxed atmosphere of the region take over your vacation. We visited on the shoulder season at the beginning of May and the weather was fantastic, the prices were lower and the places were less crowded.

In this guide we have split the coast of Maine in three regions: The Maine Beaches, the Midcoast of Maine and DownEast Acadia.

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting the Maine Coast

My favorite things to enjoy in the midcoast of Maine are visiting the many charming small towns, taking a stroll through each downtown and visiting many of the arts venues and quaint shops. When in Maine you need to photograph and visit as many of the state’s 65 lighthouses. Maine is one of those states that keep pulling you back to visit again.

Getting to Maine

The best way to explore the coast of Maine and start your Maine road trip is doing it by car, so you can stop at any historic town or beautiful viewpoint you come across. Mazda provided us with the Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD which is perfect for road trips with a cool HUD (heads up display) too keep our eyes on the road, integrated navigation and up to 27 MPG.

One of the main and closest airport to Maine is Boston Logan International Airport. As one of the largest airports in the region it is a hub for many Airlines and it has a big range of flights from different cities around the country and even the world. This makes it very convenient for your road trip to Maine.

We recommend either taking the bus/train from Boston or rent a car at any of the rental companies, such as Enterprise, Budget, Hertz, Alamo, BOS, Thrifty, and Advantage and start your Maine road trip right then!

Main cities to visit: Kennebunkport, Portland, Wiscasset, Camden and Bar Harbor.

The Ultimate Maine Road trip Itinerary – T he Maine Beaches

Maine is well known for having the best lobsters and the iconic Acadia National Parks. Yet, it also has endless sandy beaches and relaxing oceanside towns that will make your vacation hard to forget.

The Maine Beaches is a short drive from most of New England, only 70 miles from Boston and a 5 hour drive from NYC or Montreal. The beaches of Maine is where you want to be in the Summer. The warm sun and cool breeze make for enjoyable days at the water. If driving is not an option you can always take the Amtrak Downeaster Train , the bus or catch a flight to Portland.

Day 1: Drive to Ogunquit Beach

We started our drive from Boston towards the Maine Beaches. We left earlier to take full advantage of the day. To reach the Maine beaches region you can either take the quicker I-95 or more scenic US Route 1.

Cape Neddick Lighthouse

The Cape Neddick Lighthouse, also known as Nubble Light is a small but beautiful lighthouse in York and it is a must stop for your Maine road trip. It is perched on its own little island that can only be enjoyed across the water from Sohier Park.

Have lunch at Fox’s Lobster House

After photographing one of the most iconic lighthouses of Maine, make sure to stop at the Fox’s Lobster House in York to try the famous lobster roll or in our case we opted for the fresh fish and chips.

Marginal Way to Ogunquit Beach

Ogunquit Beach is a the perfect place to enjoy and afternoon at its sandy beaches or walking down the art galleries, doing some shopping or even enjoying a delicious meal.

If you like beautiful coastal landscapes, then make sure to walk along the rocky seashore on the paved Marginal Way path . Enjoy this 1.25 miles long path from Perkins Cove all the way to the sandy shores of Ogunquit Beach.

This beach is one of the best vacation spots in Maine and it is definitely worth visiting on your Maine road trip.

Along the walk you are met with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and several smaller and more rocky beaches to dip your toes into the water. Ogunquit Beach itself is rated one of the best in New England, which comes as no surprise with its warm sands and calm waves.

End the evening off with a hair raising performance at the Ogunquit Playhouse . They run some of the best Broadway musicals and soon to be Broadway hits from the late spring through the early fall in a theatre built in 1937 exclusively as a seasonal theatre. Grab a drink at the bar before enjoy a musical delight with your loved one.

During our visit, we saw the lively Smokey Joe’s Cafe on its way to New York. The theatre has a different musical each month, so make sure to check the calendar on what is playing when you visit.

Where to sleep in Kennebunk?

The Port Inn is the perfect Inn to rest after a day full of beautiful landscapes and long walks. Melt into the comfortable king size beds  in your spacious hotel room. With a delicious continental breakfast included and a relaxing pool on site, it is the perfect spot to rejuvenate or spend a lazy afternoon.

Day 2: Enjoy the Maine Beaches in Kennebunk

For a our second day in our Maine road trip itinerary we will be heading to Kennebunk.  This beautiful coastal town in southern Maine is famous for its long sandy beaches. Other beaches you can visit in Maine are Goose Rocks Beach and Arundel Beach, which are located in Kennebunkport.

Kennebunkport is a historical shipbuilding and fishing village and one of Maine’s most popular seaside towns. It is famous for its picturesque harbor, colonial architecture, quaint shops and the Bush family’s summer compound.

Gooch’s Beach

Gooch’s Beach is the largest section of public beach in Kennebunk. Its clean white sands and proximity to downtown makes it a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.

Our second day at the Maine Beaches is full of fun in the sun and new adventures.

Parson’s Beach and shore walk

Parson’s Beach is a privately owned beach, which is open to the public. During low tide, you will find many locals fishing on the edge of the vast beach. Behind the sand dunes of the beach there is also a short walk among the salt marshes where you can spot local wildlife.

Morning scenic flight

Start the morning off right with a bit of excitement on a scenic flight. We were met at the Sanford Seacoast Regional Airport by Andrew Button the Chief Flight Instructor of Southern Maine Aviation . We hopped into a Cessna 172 Skyhawk for a fun flight, with enough room for our dog, Gordo!

During the one hour scenic flight we made it all the way down to Portsmouth, NH before making our way along the coast to Portland and then headed back to the airport. Along the flight we had amazing views of the rocky seashore, long sandy beaches, several towns and of course many iconic lighthouses.

The hour long scenic flight is $260 per hour and holds up to 3 passengers, or two passengers and one calm dog.

Lunch at Fisherman’s Catch

After an exciting morning exploring Maine by air, head off the beaten path to enjoy lunch at  Fisherman’s Catch in Wells, ME. We highly recommend sitting outside in the sun or at the cute boat turned into a bar. We got the Fish and Chips and the daily special, a salmon fillet sandwich. Lucky for us, the large portions meant we were left with an afternoon snack to go.

Hop aboard a train at the Seashore Trolley Museum

Take a ride on a historic streetcar at the  Seashore Trolley Museum . Here you will find a collection of public transportation from across the country and throughout history. Enjoy the many restored trolley cars and related pieces. Our favorite part of the museum is riding on a restored streetcar, driven by volunteers, some of which come all the way from Boston for the day.

Other places you can visit near Kennebunkport are the beautiful St. Ann’s Episcopal Church and the lovely lobster-fishing village of Cape Porpoise and the Goat Island Lighthouse. Try some of New England’s freshest lobster rolls at Clam Shack.

Day 3: Spend the day at Old Orchard

Down Old Orchard St to Palace Playland

Spend the morning walking in the small bustling downtown of Old Orchard Beach . Starting at the top of Old Orchard Street work your way through the many shops on your way down towards the water. Make sure not to miss the local collections of souvenirs from Beachology  or your childhood dream of endless candies, popcorn and fudge at  Dickinson’s Candy .

Getting closer to the water are two staples of Old Orchard Beach;  Palace Playland  and  The Pier . Palace Playland is a little amusement park right in the center of town with rides for all ages, including a massive arcade. The area is open for all to enjoy as you pay per ride, with the option for an all-day pass for the rides.

The Pier is the ultimate food and entertainment destination out over the water. The Pier features several restaurants, bars and even a few souvenir shops upon its wooden planks.

Rooftop lunch at Joseph’s by the Sea

Just a five minute walk down the beach from the center of Old Orchard Beach is the spectacular  Joseph’s by the Sea . If you have the opportunity, enjoy your meal and drinks from the rooftop for unfettered views of the ocean.

Halfway through our stay we needed a break from the seafood capital of the world with some juicy hamburgers and well-crafted cocktails. Even if you are not looking for a full meal, head on over for a tasty drink in the sun with the best view in town.

Where to sleep near Portland?

Along the shores of Cape Elizabeth, just a 10 minute drive south of Portland, you will find the ultimate eco-friendly beach resort.  The Inn by the Sea  is perched on the hillside above the expansive Crescent Beach State Park.

Make your way to this elegant example of luxurious hospitality perfect for any romantic or family getaway to Maine.

The Ultimate Maine Road trip Itinerary – Midcoast of Maine 

Cape Elizabeth is one of the most beautiful stop and lighthouse in all of Maine. You must include Cape Elizabeth on your Maine road trip. Other lighthouses you must visit in this region that are active and with incredible views are Portland Headlight, Ram Island Ledge Lighthouse,  and  Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse.

Day 4: Explore Portland and surrounding areas

Explore Fort Williams Park and Portland Head Light

This stunning lighthouse is located inside of  Fort Williams Park . Here you can enjoy the beautiful Head Light, the powerful rocky Maine coast and explore some military ruins and old batteries.

➳ Read More: A Complete Guide from Portland Maine to Bar Harbor

Waterfront along Commercial St.

Portland, Maine is a fantastic stop during your Maine road trip. Go for a stroll along the historic cobblestone roads of Commercial St along the waterfront. Along the road you can enjoy rows of beautiful brick architecture with plenty of interesting stores to take a peek into. Walking along the waterfront there are a handful of working piers that you can go down. Make sure to make a quick stop along The Old Port , where you will find fishing wharves, warehouses, and delicious restaurants.

Portland Observatory

Climb to the top of America’s last standing maritime signal tower. The Portland Observatory was built in 1807 to help manage Portland’s significant maritime movements. You can now climb to the top of this wooden tower for breathtaking panoramic views over the city of Portland and surrounding waters. Making your way through the interior of the tower you learn the history of the port city along with ideation and construction of the tower.

Lucky Catch Lobster Cruises

No trip to Portland or Maine is complete without the chance to catch some live lobsters. With Lucky Catch Cruises the tour is not just about picking up the lobster traps. You can also refill the fish bait bags, learn the history and laws regarding lobstering of Maine and about the life of a lobster/fisherman.

Did you know that to keep a lobster caught in Maine there are strict size requirements and cannot be too big or too small?

The lobster cruises enjoy a scenic ride along the way, with  route options  including White Head Passage, a chance to spot seals, and even a glimpse of Portland Headlight.

Tickets for the 90 minute lobster tour are $50 per adult with the opportunity for you to purchase some fresh caught lobster at the end of the tour.

Where to sleep in Portland?

If you are looking to stay at the center of the action in downtown Portland with your pup, look no further than the  Hilton Garden Inn . Enjoy views out into Casco Bay and down the bustling waterfront. Besides the spacious rooms and comfortable beds.

Day 5: Explore the Harpswell and Boothbay Peninsulas

The Harpswell and Boothbay Peninsulas offer sweeping views over northern Casco Bay. The handling on the Mazda CX-5 is great for an afternoon drive along the winding roads across the remote landscape. Several historic and charming towns offer a handful of places to stop and enjoy some fresh seafood.

➳ Read More: The best Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Visit the Giant’s Stairs in the Harpswell Peninsula

We made a quick stop at the Giant’s Stairs to witness the ruggedness of Casco Bay. It is powerful as you watch the waves forcefully crash into the rocks below.

Enjoy a Lobster Roll at Red’s Eats in Wiscasset

As you might know, we do not eat shellfish but we have heard from locals and other tourists that you must stop at Red’s Eats to try the lobster roll dipped in butter.

During summer plan accordingly as a highlight of the region the lines are super long and it can take you 20 to 40 minutes to eat.

End your day at the Boothbay Peninsula 

During the summer, Boothbay Harbor is one of the coolest towns in midcoast Maine. It is full of music, good vibes, exciting art galleries, restaurants and museums.

Throughout the Summer make sure to visit this spectacular peninsula. On the first Friday of each month to enjoy a First Friday Art Tour, where art galleries open their doors for everyone to enjoy the exhibitions.

On Sundays from June through Labor Day there is an epic and unique live music reggae cruise that you simply cannot miss.

Visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Garden

While you are on the Boothbay Peninsula you must visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Garden . Covering over 300 acres, this beautiful landscape will take your breath away. The Botanical Garden has many woody trails, fountains, ponds, sculpture and a butterfly house.

Take a Red Cloak Haunted History Tour with Sally

If you are into historical tours, ghost tours or historical mysteries make sure to sign up for a Red Cloak Haunted History Tour . Sally, the founder, has the best stories and I can assure you will have an amazing time.

Where to sleep the second night:

We were really luck to experience the Midcoast of Maine with a twist of luxury. Staying at the Topside Inn made our whole experience a more memorable and cherish one. The hotel and the people who worked there made our trip more enjoyable.

Topside Inn in Boothbay Peninsula : The Topside Inn is owned by Brian Makarewicz and Mark Osborn, a lovely couple that make sure every detail is perfect. They offer a delicious gourmet breakfast every morning included with your stay. The Inn, overlooking the main street and waterfront, won first place for Inns in Maine and ranked #5 most romantic inn in the United States.

Day 6: Explore the Pemaquid Peninsula and the Penobscot Bay

The rugged and rocky Pemaquid Peninsula offers a less touristy experience of the powerful coast Maine is famous for. Jutting out into the Gulf of Maine it is the perfect spot for a relax enjoyment of the natural surroundings. Other places to visit to complete your perfect Maine road trip itinerary are the quaint town of Waldoboro, the Damariscotta   Lake, the  Pemaquid Pond  and  Duckpuddle Pond.

Pemaquid Point Light

Pemaquid Point Light is one of my favorite lighthouses in Maine, not only for the lighthouse but for the stunning rock formations and the crashing waves surrounding the building.

Pemaquid Point is at the tip of the peninsula, which you might recognize from the back of the Maine State Quarter. Nearby you will also find Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site with a reconstruction of Fort William Henry.

The Good Supply

One of my favorite shops in the Pemaquid Peninsula is the The Good Supply. The store is meant to help local artists and the community by selling the arts at this epic barn. The products at The Good Supply are inspired by Maine’s history, people, nature and culture.

Walk around Camden’s downtown

Camden is one of the most beautiful and most charming coastal towns of Maine. It is the perfect destination for ocean lovers, people who enjoy unique stores and anyone that loves the outdoors.

Camden receives most of its visitor over the summer making the town more vibrant and exciting. Camden has many different activities to offer to its visitor. You can take a boat tour, walk the historic downtown, visit the lighthouse, swim at its beaches and explore the Camden Hills State Park.

Take a cooking class at the Salt Water Farm

Make sure to take a cooking class at the renowned Salt Water Farm cooking school . Learn how to create Maine’s iconic flavors using fresh and local ingredients.

Where to sleep the third night:

16 Bay View is a luxurious boutique hotel built in a renovated historical 20th century industrial brick building at the heart of downtown Camden. The vintage inspired interior is mixed with state of the art amenities making for an amazing stay.

Before leaving the mid-coast Maine region make sure to take a quick stop at Rockland. You must add Rockland Harbor, Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse  and  Penobscot Bay  to your Maine road trip itinerary as it has beautiful landscapes of the mountains and the sea.

The Ultimate Maine Road trip Itinerary – DownEast Acadia

DownEast Acadia not only has one of the most beautiful national parks in the United States but also boasts 2,330 miles of coastline. In this trip we visited the Blue Hill Peninsula, Bar Harbor and of course Acadia National Park.

Day 7: Explore Bucksport and surrounding areas

Take a tour at fort knox.

Walk around the Fort and enjoy a panoramic view from the Penobscot Narrows Observatory. Take a stroll around the Bucksport riverwalk and have a delicious meal at the Friar’s Brewpub. 

Visit Castine’s downtown

Take a guided tour of Castine to visit the city’s main highlights and learn its history. Walk along the water of Penobscot Bay or rent a kayak for the chance to witness the fluorescent bacteria over the summer, which makes the beach glow.

Where to sleep the first night:

The historic bed and breakfast of Pentagöet Inn in downtown Castine dates back to 1894. Enjoy a sunny afternoon on the pristine porch before heading to the vintage rustic inspired rooms.

Day 8: Explore Deer Isle

Start your day off in Harborside, a small unincorporated village on the coast of Penobscot Bay. Right next to Harborside is the Holbrook Island Sanctuary with over seven miles of walking paths to witness wildlife from a range of environments including shoreline, forests, ponds, and marshland.

Bucks Harbor Market is the perfect stop for lunch in Brooksville. With a well stocked deli, there are many cold sandwich options to go, but make sure to head there early as they often sell out.

Experience the Good Life Center to learn about the lives of Helen and Scott Nearing, and their sustainable and pacifist philosophies an a historic Forest Farm homestead.

For dinner, check out the fresh wood-fired pizza from Tinder Hearth . They offer pizza Tuesday through Saturday evening throughout the summer, and on Tuesday and Saturday the rest of the year. Follow them on Instagram to see what local ingredient pizza pies are on the menu each day.

Where to sleep in Deer Isle:

Step back in time at the Pilgrim’s Inn and its romantic bed and breakfast atmosphere. The building dates back to 1793 and has been excellently restored and maintained for all those who stay.

Day 9: Explore Deer Isle

Explore the coastal downtown Stonington by foot and enjoy the enriched arts scene, thanks in part to the Haystack Mountain School of Crafts on Deer Isle.

Kayaking along The Maine Island Trail, a 375-mile water trail for recreational boaters, spanning Maine’s entire coast. On this trip you will have hundreds of islands and inlets to explore at your fingertips.

Go for a moderate 1.8 mile hike into the old Settlement Quarry Preserve. Along trail in the granite quarry there is informative signage to learn about the history of the site.

Head on over to Nervous Nellie’s Jams & Jellies to taste the handmade goodness of these Maine inspired preserves and enjoy the sculptures of artist Peter Beerits.

Take a lighthouse boat tour to get up close and personal with eight of the lighthouses located on the shores of Deer Isle, including the Pumpkin Island Lighthouse and Goose Rocks Light.

Day 10: Explore Isle au Haut

Isle au Haut is a small island, which is part of Acadia National Park. To reach the island take the passenger ferry from Stonington to the Isle au Haut Town Landing. The ferry runs from mid-June through late September.

You can bike or hike to explore the island, but we highly recommend to bring a bike as the distances are quite long to just hike. The best trail is the Cliff side trail, as it offers amazing views of the open ocean. 

Day 11: Visit Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor

Take a stroll around downtown Bar Harbor and make sure to stop and photograph the Bass Harbor lighthouse. While the city is beautiful and offers plenty of good food options, plan enough time to explore Acadia National Park.

Your Maine road trip will not be completed without stopping by Acadia National Park. This 47,000-acre recreation area is located on Maine’s Mount Desert.

Places to visit in Acadia and Bar Harbor are Cadillac Mountain, Sand Beach , Jordan Pond , Bubble Mountain, Mount Desert Island, Ocean Trail, Schoodic Peninsula, and Frenchman Bay.

Acadia National Park covers 47,000-acre along the coast of Maine and is home to Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. While you can visit the park year round, the best time to visit is in the warmer months to take advantage of the over 120 miles of hiking trails.

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How to Plan an Epic Maine Road Trip: A Five-Day Travel Guide

Buckle up and let maine's idyllic landscapes, epicurean gifts and exceptional hospitality guide you through an exhilarating escapade on four wheels..

Nestled in the uppermost crest of the United States, Maine serves as more than a geographical milestone. Delving into Maine feels akin to wandering through Provence , a storied region in Southern France, brimming with countless rond-points . Each stop along the Pine Tree State’s main artery, Route 1, unfurls a new bouquet of delights, akin to the surprises that Provence’s labyrinthine roads reserve for those seeking out destinations like Arles or Saint-Tropez. However, over 300 miles driving the backbone of this New England state, you find yourself entranced not by glitzy French cities, but by quaint coastal hamlets, roadside seafood shacks and magnetic harbors that invite you to circle their virtues in awe and anticipation.

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Picture getting swept up by Kennebunkport’s age-old allure, captivated by Portland’s pulsating heartbeat and spellbound by Boothbay’s quaint rusticity—all in one trip. Maine’s beauty, culture and gastronomy weave an irresistible spell that draws you to journey through its winding roads. Any seasoned local will assure you that a road trip is the premier path to excavating the region’s heart and soul. So, consider this the green light to start planning your getaway—a daily carousel of experiences crafting indelible memories. Buckle up and let Maine’s idyllic landscapes, epicurean gifts and exceptional hospitality guide you through an exhilarating escapade on four wheels.

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Day One : Kennebunkport and Ogunquit

Kennebunkport, a charming New England town, whisks you back in time with its old shipbuilder mansions narrating past tales. The Atlantic’s playful waves caress the shores alongside this postcard-perfect panorama. Dining is more an art than a meal, with places like The White Barn Inn  serving culinary puzzles that unravel mouthwatering mysteries, while Clam Shack turns lobster into tantalizing symphonies of flavor.

Within a pebble’s toss, Ogunquit, a lively beach town, bursts with fervor come summertime. Despite housing fewer than a thousand inhabitants, it’s as dynamic as any sprawling metropolis. The town’s glorious three-mile-long sandy beach (you’ll appreciate the convenient beachfront parking), homestyle eateries and charming boutiques exude an infectious warmth. As the sun dips below the horizon, Ogunquit becomes an unexpected nightlife powerhouse. The Ogunquit Playhouse , a treasured relic from the “summer stock era” of the 1920s, underscores the town’s theatrical inclinations. Simultaneously, The Front Porch ‘s patio becomes a magnet for conviviality, animated by the rhythmic harmonies of piano singalongs. End your night at the colossal multi-level nightclub Maine Street .

Where to stay : For a quintessential Maine experience, the Wanderer Cottages serve as an ideal home base. This collection of breezy beach cottages, each bearing a quirky name like “Love Shack,” radiate a retro appeal. Decked out with monochrome surf photography and nautical antiques, they provide a comforting retreat after a day of discovery.

Day Two: Portland

It’s about 50 miles from Kennebunkport to Portland, roughly an hour of driving, but oh, what an hour it is. Maine’s most populous city is a heady cocktail of creativity and decadence—both literally and figuratively as one of America’s next-gen culinary capitals. Kickstart your adventure at Miss Portland Diner , a historical gem. This 1949 dive, resplendent in its chrome-laced restoration, serves a nostalgic culinary journey that whisks you back in time. Maine blueberry pancakes drip with sweet memories, and comforting scallop casserole evokes the warmth of a grandmother’s cherished recipes.

As twilight blankets the city, Portland’s culinary scene steps farther into the spotlight. Central Provisions (lauded for the inventiveness of its small plates) and Eventide Oyster Co. (seafood, seafood and more seafood) are coveted mainstays—be sure to reserve in advance—while Highroller Lobster Co. remains the place to be for a low-key, high-fun meal out.

Before setting your compass north, take a breather in Freeport (a mere 20 minutes from Portland), the birthplace of the iconic L.L. Bean flagship store . Far more than the purveyor of the legendary “bean boot,” this store caters to every Maine adventure, with cozy sweatshirts to stave off Atlantic breezes or robust tents for the audacious explorer.

Where to stay : Housed in Portland’s former Herald headquarters, The Press Hotel brims with the energy of yesteryear’s newsroom. Every nook bristles with journalistic hints—from the typographic carpets to locally-sourced art. Union, the in-house restaurant, takes pride in showcasing seasonal produce, serving a parade of dishes made from the region’s finest harvests.

Day Three: Boothbay

As you transition from one city to the next over the 70 miles from Portland to Boothbay, the changing landscapes provide a visual treat. The stretch of road from Portland to Boothbay clocks in at around 70. Dip your toes into the rustic charm of Boothbay—but not before you’ve savored a generous slice of Maine’s offerings at The Alna Store . Founded by husband-and-wife team Brain Haskins and Jasper Ludwig, this country store is a gastronomic tribute to Maine, an edible sonnet in honor of hyperlocal flavors. A world of globally-inspired provisions awaits behind its humble façade, along with a lunch menu skillfully composed. If you find yourself here on a weekend, you might be privy to a dinner soirée, an edible journey from the romantic landscapes of Spain to the sizzling allure of Szechuan spice. 

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens , a 250-acre living canvas of over 300 plant types, offers a verdant feast for plant lovers. Nearby attractions like the Boothbay Railway Museum and Boothbay Region Land Trust expand your exploration with glimpses into Maine’s rail history and hiking trails.

When hunger strikes (again), head to Shannon’s Unshelled for authentic Maine seafood or let Ports of Italy tempt you with exquisite dishes that weave local ingredients into Mediterranean melodies. If you can “bake” in more time to your itinerary, enlist Cabbage Island Clambakes for a windswept sail to Cabbage Island for a full-on seafood smorgasbord, New England-style. 

Where to stay : Perched majestically on a hill, Topside Inn sits inside a 19th-century sea captain’s home, gifting guests with a bird’s-eye view of Boothbay Harbor. A stone’s throw from the town center, it promises stylish solace in the main house and two delightful summer guesthouses. Each room, adorned with contemporary coastal decor, doubles as a welcome tonic to the day’s adventures.

Day Four: Camden

Just about an hour from Boothbay, the town of Camden is sandwiched between the majesty of mountains and the magic of the sea. From the verdant Camden Hills whispering ancient stories to the lively Penobscot Bay, it’s a destination sure to enthrall explorers. Begin your day with a harbor walk before hitting the trails. Mount Battie offers a gentle climb with stunning harbor views. For thrill-seekers, Camden Hills State Park promises afternoon adventures.

Camden shows off its culinary charisma with beloved institutions like Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe and Peter Ott’s reigning as must-visits. The town embraces modernity as well, with innovative restaurants such as Long Grain and Natalie’s at the Camden Harbour Inn shaping your gastronomic journey, with the former crafting a poetic Thai culinary experience, while the latter harmonizes French finesse with Maine’s bountiful produce. 

Where to stay : Steeped in vintage allure, every corner of the newly revitalized Norumbega Inn hums a lullaby of simpler times. This elegant retreat offers 11 individually styled rooms and suites, furnished common areas and a kitchen, fleshing out its traditional bones with modern design. However, it’s the preserved historic elements—original wooden millwork, iconic turret and a glass-front porch—that temper the inn’s contemporary side.

Day Five: Bar Harbor

A mere two-hour drive from Camden lies the rugged beauty of Mount Desert Island, the gateway to Acadia National Park. Upon arrival, you’re faced with an enticing decision: Embark on a two-mile hike up North Ridge Trail, or opt for a scenic drive instead? Whatever you choose, you’re well on your way to exploring the 27-mile Loop Road that snakes through the park’s unspoiled wilderness. The day is yours to conquer: Climb lofty peaks or meander along the tranquil Bubble Trail. Feel the thunderous power of crashing waves at Thunder Hole or seek serenity with afternoon tea at Jordan Pond House. As you sip, reflect on the stillness of the nearby pond—a soothing counterpoint to the day’s thrilling escapades.

Rather skip the hike? No problem. Submerge yourself in underwater exploration with Diver Ed’s Dive-In Theater , guided by the eponymous marine ecologist. Or, if you prefer terra firma, take in a free movie at Agamont Park’s alfresco Seaside Cinema on summer Wednesdays through mid-August. Then, dive into the food scene. Savor a genuine taste of the locale with Atlantic Brewing’s eclectic beers like Blueberry Ale and Cadillac Mountain Stout, perfectly paired with their veggie-friendly delights. Nearby, Havana serves a combo of stellar Latin American-inspired dishes. Plan for an early night—an unforgettable sunrise view from the peak of Cadillac Mountain puts even early birds to shame. And don’t worry, you can drive.

Where to stay : The Claremont Hotel in Southwest Harbor blends Maine’s rustic character with a touch of European flair. Whether it’s a snug cottage or a spacious home, you’ll find the right fit here. Recently spruced up, its striking white exterior is a sight for sore eyes amid leafy pines and the glistening bay beyond.

• SEE ALSO : Flockhill Unveils the Latest Vision in Ultra-Luxe New Zealand Lodging

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Charming 3 Day Maine Coast Road Trip Itinerary (Updated 2024)

By: Author Vagrants of the World Travel Writer

Posted on Last updated: January 16, 2024

Home >> Destinations >> Charming 3 Day Maine Coast Road Trip Itinerary (Updated 2024)

Maine is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and scenic states in the US. It is also one of the top destinations on any East Coast fall foliage itinerary . Rocky coasts, lighthouses, lobster, quaint boutiques, sandy beaches, and plenty of ocean views. One of the best outdoor destinations in the US , this 3 day Maine coast road trip is the perfect road trip destination for nature and adventure.

Whether it’s your first time visiting Maine or your hundredth, the beauty of Maine will always leave an impression.

Table of Contents

3 Day Maine Coast Road Trip Itinerary

This 3-day Maine Coast Itinerary will take you from the lush wilderness and rocky coastlines of Acadia National Park to Kennebunkport’s charming, seaside fishing village. Along the way, you will be treated to some of the most charming, small towns with that New England feel. 

Day 1: Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park 

Begin your 3 day Maine coast road trip in Maine’s Bar Harbor area. Bar Harbor is the picturesque seaside town on Mount Desert Island bordering Acadia National Park. It’s considered one of the best national parks in the United States . Home to some of the best lobster and seafood restaurants in the state, Bar Harbor is full of quaint shops and easy access to the waters of Frenchman Bay. 

A day well spent in this area will include some time strolling the streets of Bar Harbor after exploring the wilderness and coastal edges of Acadia National Park.

Drive Park Loop Drive 

Take a drive along the Park Loop Drive in Acadia National Park. The 27-mile loop road through the park takes you past many of the park’s highlights, including many observation points.

The Park Loop Drive is a great introduction to the park and can help you decide how to spend the rest of your time here. One great option is to go to the top of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast,. You can also relax at Jordan Pond and grab a bite to eat at the Jordon Pond House. Another great idea is to go for a swim at Sand Beach.

Go for a Hike

Acadia National Park is one of the top hiking destinations in the US . There are loads of hiking trails to choose from to suit all hiking abilities and itineraries. For those looking for beginning level hikes, Bubble Rock, the Ocean Path, the Wonderland Trail, or the Great Head Trail are great options. 

For experienced hikers, options include the Precipice Trail, the Beehive Trail, the Dorr Mountain Trail, or a hike to the Cadillac Mountain summit.

Grab Dinner and Explore Downtown Bar Harbor

After exploring Acadia National Park, you’ll surely be ready for some of Maine’s famous local seafood. Visit the heart of Bar Harbor for plenty of dining options. One must-visit is the brand-new Brasserie Le Brun , a new French restaurant with a modern twist. You can also try out the Chart Room for delicious seafood or Havana Parilla for delicious Latin cuisine. 

After dinner, enjoy a stroll along the waterfront or relax in the village green. Find yourself some unique, handcrafted souvenirs along Main Street, or visit the Bar Harbor Cellars Winery for a post-dinner wine tasting. 

You Might Also Like : If you have an extra day or two, consider exploring some of beautiful New Hampshire , less than an hour south of Portland.

Day 2: Portland

One of Maine’s biggest cities, Portland has lots to offer visitors. From strolling the Old Port, finding unique gifts and treasures at local boutiques, and visiting some of Maine’s most scenic lighthouses .

The drive from Bar Harbor to Portland is 3 hours, so drive early to make the most of your time.

Old Port 

Step from the modern-day city to the historic, cobblestone streets of Old Port as you spend your morning sightseeing, shopping, and enjoying the history and culture of Portland. You will find a combination of local and brand-name shops along the old streets. You can find clothing shops, galleries, gourmet food stores, pottery, jewelry, and more. 

Old Port is also blessed with many popular and quality restaurants, from quick service to fine dining style restaurants. One of the top new coffee shops that we recommend is Double Great Coffee , serving delicious coffee and desserts. For Latin food lovers, check out Papi , serving delicious coctails and Puerto Rican eats. The Continental is an amazing new spot in Portland serving authentic pub food and drinks.

If you want to get out on the water, join a 2-hour sail with the Portland Schooner Co. on an early 1900’s Windjammer for a sightseeing cruise taking in the famous local lighthouses and wildlife.  See here for cruise details .

Recommended Tours in Portland Old Town

• Old Port Culinary Walking Tour – 3-hour tour learning about Maine’s famous culinary scene. Includes guide, food samples from locale restaurants and eateries, and beer tasting. See here for full tour details .
• History Walking Tour with Sweet Treat – 2 hour tour exploring the key landmarks of Portland and its 200-year history. A great way to get your bearings in Portland. Includes local guide and typical Portland sweet treat at the end. See here for full details .

Cape Elizabeth

Home of the Portland Head lighthouse inside Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth is one of the most well-known lighthouses in the US.

You can’t go inside the lighthouse, but there are plenty of areas for stunning views, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

If visiting on a hot summer day, you can also hit the beach area for a swim with views of the Ram Island Ledge Light (Beware, though, even in summer, the water will be cold).

Brewery Tour 

With over 70 breweries within the city limits, a brewery tour should be on your 3 day Maine coast road trip. There are plenty of unique tour options, from a Haunted Pub Crawl, pedal bike tours, party bikes, bus, and private tour options. Alternatively, you can research Portland’s many breweries and take a self-guided brewery tour. 

Recommended Beer & Brewery Tours

• Bike and Brew Tour – 1.5-2.5 hour options. Discover Portland and the local brew scene by bike. Choose between a morning coffee tour, an afternoon brewery tour, or an early evening beer, wine, and spirits tour. Includes all cycling gear, a local guide, and a selection of craft beverage samples. See here for full tour details .
• Sea Harbor Brews Cruise – 1.5 or 2 hours. Enjoy beers and boats on the waters of beautiful Portland Harbor and Casco Bay on a brews cruise. Sip local craft beers onboard the beautiful Elizabeth Grace for a 1.5-hour harbor tour or 2-hour sunset cruise. Includes cruise, guide, and 2 local craft beers. See here for full details .
• Tasting Tour to Local Breweries – 3 hours. Sip and taste your way through historic Portland on this walking brewery tour. Visit the city’s well-known breweries and enjoy samples at each stop along the way while learning about Portland’s beer history. Tour includes local guide, stops at three local breweries with three samples at each brewery and a light snack. See here for full tour details .

Alternate Portland Itinerary: Casco Islands

If you want to get out of the city and explore the surrounding waters, spend the day island-hopping the Casco Bay Islands. While there are over 700 islands in Casco Bay, there are six easily accessible islands via ferry.  

You can enjoy various activities on the islands, including kayaking, museums, art galleries, shopping, hiking trails, sandy beaches, delicious restaurants, biking, historic forts/structures, fishing, and motorboating. Whichever island/s you choose, you notice the pace is a lot slower on the Casco Islands, and relaxation is a priority.

Day 3: Kennebunkport 

For the final day, continue Southward along the coast to the seaside town of Kennebunkport. Kennebunkport is home to a quaint shopping district, gorgeous beaches, and a working fishing harbor.

Relax at the Beach

Kennebunkport Beach is a great swimming beach with options for getting out on the water in a kayak. If you are looking for a more relaxed beach, you will find calmer waves at Goose Rocks Beach with a very well-maintained shoreline. Hit the beach for a quick swim before heading out to see all that Kennebunkport has to offer, or choose to spend a few hours relaxing before moving on.

Cape Porpoise

Cape Porpoise is a working fishing harbor just five minutes outside of Dock Square. You can watch the fishing fleets cruising in and out of the harbor, observing the different traps and bait barrels used. Like many other destinations along the coast of Maine, Cape Porpoise is a great stop for fresh seafood dining – the Cape Porpoise Chowder House is one of the best options. 

If you have the time, a boat tour out to Goat Island to see the Goat Island Lighthouse is a worthwhile trip, The tour includes a narrated history tour and, afterward, takes you past Bumpkin Island, where you can spot seals sunbathing on the shores. 

Catch a Show at Vinegar Hill Music Theatre

Finish up your day in Kennebunkport at the Vinegar Hill Music Theatre to catch some live entertainment. The theater is set in a renovated barn that currently offers live shows and a variety of concerts, from jazz, blues, rock, pop, and funk. The Theatre also has a bar where you can enjoy cocktails to start the night. 

About The Author

Melissa Luther

Melissa is the writer and photographer behind Navigation Junkie , a family-focused travel blog. She writes about her travel experiences with her 6-year-old daughter and provides tips and tricks learned during those travels to help improve the experience of families from around the world hoping to create memories through travel. 

7 Day Maine Coast Road Trip Itinerary: Where to Go and What to Do

Seven days for a Maine coast road trip is the perfect amount of time to see some great cities and immerse yourself in the wonderful local culture of coastal Maine.

From charming small towns that are not-to-miss (and for reasons we explain, below) to bigger cities that will round out the trip, you're sure to have fun in this stunning New England state.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase, at no cost to you . We truly only recommend hotels, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases. We were hosted by Visit Maine. All opinions are our own.

Maine Coast Road Trip Overview

We flew into Maine's airport in Portland from RDU airport in Raleigh to start our trip. Another easy airport to get to is Boston Logan International Airport, which is just a two-hour drive from Portland.

We rented a car to road trip north from that point. You can begin in Portland and do the reverse of our trip. It depends on your preference. However, we chose to go to the furthest point north of our trip and then drive back south so when we ended and needed to fly home, we were just minutes from the airport.

• Days 1 to 3: Bar Harbor
• 3 to 5: Boothbay Harbor
• 5 to 7: Portland

If you want to extend your time in Maine, we recommend a Maine Windjammer cruise . This will give you a completely unique view of the coast. We had a fantastic experience sailing Maine's coast this way for four days as an add-on to our road trip.

Days 1 to 3: Bar Harbor, in Northern Maine

Bar Harbor was so beautiful. If you like a bustling and walkable small town on the water, you'll love it here. Especially because you can do excursions like a lobster boat tour and go whale watching.

We stayed at the most amazing modern bed and breakfast called The Atlantean . The owners blew us away with their hospitality and cooking. (The breakfasts there were the best meals we had of our entire road trip along with Maine foods like lobster and blueberry donuts!)

One of the best things to do here was to simply take walks and stop for ice cream or coffee, and sit in the park to enjoy the view of the water. Another absolutely fantastic view was from the top of Cadillac mountain. It was special to see the water and its many islands like birds in the sky from that vantage point.

Acadia National Park is one of the main reasons many people add Bar Harbor to a Maine coast road trip itinerary. Truthfully though, the town alone is worth the visit.

That being said, Acadia National Park is refreshing and attractive. We enjoyed an easy hike there one afternoon around Jordan Pond and drove the loop road the next day to see some more of Maine's coast. (Jordan Pond is on the list of things to do in the park on the super helpful National Park Planner. If you plan on going to even two National Parks in the near future, you need this !)

If you're going to Acadia National Park during summer , we highly recommend getting a Bug Bite Thing to combat bug bites while you're there. We took a very leisurely short walk in the park at some pretty gardens they have and man oh man….I got eaten alive by the bugs! We are so grateful for this device that eliminates the itch in seconds.

Must-have item for your Tropical vacation:

The only thing we have tried that gets rid of bug bites from your skin is The Bug Bite Thing . This item is a MUST pack when we travel. We always pack one in our backpack/day bag and another in our luggage. Don't travel without it! And yes, it really works !

Days 3 to 5: Boothbay Harbor

One of the nice things about Boothbay Harbor was how it felt less busy than other areas we visited, and there were a bunch of charming hotel options. There was less to do there than in Bar Harbor and Portland. This meant we could relax a little more and sleep a little later when we were there during our vacation.

It was worth a stop for its Botanical Gardens alone. Secondly, we loved that there was a little local brewery and, thirdly, how walkable the town was. A simple pleasure in life is walking around a town during a Maine coast road trip on a beautiful New England summer day.

Days 5 to 7: Portland

Portland impressed us with its mix of old and new. It's very much a functioning port city – as it has been for well over a century – and the tourist scene was thriving.

This size city really speaks to the energized explorer in us that gravitates toward liking urban environments that aren't too big and aren't too small. (It's one of the reasons we chose Raleigh, NC , as our home city.)

There were great restaurant options where we could have local seafood, tours that helped us get familiarized with the city streets, a posh Marriott hotel we enjoyed, and boat tours where we could navigate the water on with an expert guide.

There were colorful murals, lighthouses, and waterfront views…what more could you ask for?

Sea Bags flagship store is also there and it was fun to learn about the bags made from recycled sails .

5 Day itinerary for Maine's Coast

If you only have 5 days, we would recommend the following abridged version of what we did:

• Days 3 to 5: Portland

If you have to skip a city, skip Boothbay Harbor. You can even stop at the Botanical Garden in Boothbay Harbor on your way to Portland from Bar Harbor, but simply continue your drive after you visit the gardens instead of staying overnight.

Extending Your Vacation for a Maine Windjammer Cruise

We feel so fortunate to have experienced Maine's beautiful coast by sea and by land. Taking a schooner boat, an overnight Maine sailing trip with Maine Windjammer Association aboard American Eagle, was really outstanding.

It's unlike any “typical” cruise you may think of. If you're used to sailing or have gone on a sailboat you can stay on overnight, it's very much like that.

Our seven-day Maine coast road trip started after the sailing and it was the perfect complement to the sea portion of our summer Maine vacation.

Read this next:

• Planning your Trip to Maine in the Summer: 20 Things to Know
• Food Maine is Known For (Lobster and Beyond)
• Best Bed and Breakfast in Bar Harbor: Atlantean Cottage (Our Favorite Accommodations in Maine)

I want to go to Maine after I have retired. My favorite food is seafood – shrimp, crab legs, and lobster. I would like to do a lobster bake in Maine! Thank you for this information.

Need a lot of advice from Kentucky to there. Thank you

Hi Bonnie – it would be best if you flew from Kentucky to Maine, then rented a car to do a road trip of the coast. Follow our road trip plan for the perfect 7 days!

So glad this inspired you, Bonnie!

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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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A Beautiful Boston to Maine Road Trip: 3 Coastal Stops + Things to Do in Each

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Thinking of taking a Boston to Maine road trip? There are so many options that are within easy reach of Boston, so you can choose anything from a simple day trip to a multi-day road-tripping adventure. We recommend three stops in Maine: Portland, Camden, and Bar Harbor.

Of course, there are so many beautiful towns that you should visit — these are just 3 recommendations.

Need a primer on the state? This guide to the cities in Maine and what to do in each will help.

You can do any of these trips individually; Portland is the closest at just 1 hour, 45 minutes while the longest drive is from Boston to Bar Harbor at 4 hours, 40 minutes.

Alternatively, make a longer trip of it and stop at all three spots along the way.

The total Boston to Maine road trip distance covers 285 miles if you go all the way to Bar Harbor.

4-Night Road Trip from Boston to Maine

If you’re following this whole Boston to Maine road trip itinerary, then we recommend at least 4 nights in total.

You’ll want one night in Portland, one night in Camden, and two nights in Bar Harbor before heading back to Beantown.

This road trip is perfect for a summer vacation in Maine ; or enjoy the stunning fall foliage by heading out from Boston in late September or October.

Before you strike out from Boston, check out our guides for everything fun to do in the city!

Our Boston Guides

• Boston Bucket List
• Where to Stay in Boston
• Boston at Night
• Date Ideas in Boston
• Boston in the Winter
• Boston Day Trips
• All Boston Guides

Boston to Portland, Maine Road Trip

At just under two hours, a Boston to Portland ME road trip is perfect for a day trip or a whole weekend getaway.

It’s also one of the best first stops when driving from Boston to Maine for a longer adventure.

Getting There

For the quickest route from Boston to Portland, leave Boston via Route 93 to Route 95N until it hits Route 295 as you approach the city; this is usually 1 hour and 45 minutes.

This drive covers 110 miles total.

For the most scenic drive from Boston to Portland, Maine, go part of the way via the highway-free, coastal route.

You’ll still take Route 93 to Route 95, but get off at exit 90 to go into the Hampton Beach area of New Hampshire; this should be about an hour’s drive to this point.

From there, take Route 1A along the coastline all the way to Portsmouth (only about a 30-minute drive) before jumping back onto 95N to 295N at Portland (another 50 minutes or so).

This will add around 40 minutes and just an extra 10 miles to your Boston to Portland drive, but the coastal bit is a lovely reprieve from the main highway.

It also worth planning a stop at Cape Elizabeth in Cumberland County, for views over the Casco Bay and to see the Portland Head Light in Fort Williams Park.

You can even do a tour of the museum located in the former keepers’ house.

Alternatively, drive on to Portland and do a Portland Head Light day tour where a local historian takes you to the lighthouse instead.

If you prefer to do a self-guided tour, consider this audio tour , which we’ve personally used at Acadia National Park in Maine.

Things to Do in Portland, Maine

Once you get to Portland, there are so many fun tours and adventures to go on to make the most of your road trip stop.

If you’re only doing a day trip from Boston , then you’ll want to plan ahead and book a tour to maximize your time.

If you’re spending a whole weekend in Portland, you’ll have ample time to explore this small coastal city.

Portland is also known as quite the foodie city these days, so take advantage of any of the local food tours or just hit up some awesome local spots on your own.

We recommend you grab lunch at Hot Suppa (703 Congress St) for hearty Southern-inspired meals, and a potato donut at The Holy Donut (177 Commercial St).

If you love seafood, check out the seasonal Portland Lobster Co (180 Commercial St).

If you’d rather dive deeper into the local culinary history and top spots, go for the Old Port Seafood Lovers Tour to try lobster roll, New England or seafood chowder, and Maine craft beer.

Check availability and reserve your seat at the table through Viator or GetYourGuide .

Another food tour worth checking out is the Old Port Culinary Walking Tour on Viator and GetYourGuide , which takes you to four or five different restaurants to sample local delights.

Both of these tours honor Portland’s strong foodie culture and let you explore the amazing Old Port neighborhood, a historic district with cobblestone streets and charming brick buildings.

This Old Port area is right along the water, and you’ll definitely want to take advantage of this coastal location!

For a unique Portland experience, make sure you take the Schooner Tall Ship Cruise on Casco Bay.

You’ll get to view the beautiful Portland coastline from the sea, and you might be able to spot all kinds of sea life and wildlife from this famous tall schooner sailboat.

That cruise is also one of the most romantic things to do in Portland , in case you’re looking for more date ideas during your visit.

There are tons of small islands in Casco Bay, many of which were previously the homeland of Indigenous people before Europeans arrived.

There are many layers of history in Portland; the city’s motto is Resurgam, which means “I will rise again” in Latin.

Delve beneath the surface with a locally-led tour to learn more.

A more general approach to the rich history of Portland is featured in this 2-Hour Guided History Tour as well as in the Hidden Histories Downtown Walking Tour .

We always recommend you dig deeper than the basic history of a place.

Beyond the cursory background you might find in a guidebook or school history book, listen to the less frequently told stories, too.

For a more nuanced historical perspective of Portland, make sure you take the Black History Guided Walking Tour and the Women’s History Guided Walking Tour .

You’ll learn about the complicated history of the city and the historical figures that helped to create a more just and equitable future.

Where to Stay in Portland, ME

There are tons of hotels in the Portland area, but our favorites are The Francis (747 Congress St) and The Press Hotel (119 Exchange St).

The Francis is a historic landmark with a spa, laundry, and tons of family games.

Check out the rates for your stay at Expedia , Hotels , or Booking .

The Press Hotel, part of the Autograph Collection, is a gorgeous luxurious hotel with a restaurant, fitness center, and even a small art gallery.

Staying the night in Portland means you can continue your Boston to Maine road trip the next day!

For even more places to stay, check out our other Portland accommodation guides:

• Where to stay in Portland
• Pet-Friendly Hotels in Portland

Boston to Camden, Maine Road Trip

If you’re continuing your road trip from Boston after a stop in Portland, we recommend you take the 1.5-hour trip to scenic Camden, Maine.

Alternatively, you could skip Portland altogether and drive straight from Boston to Camden ME in about 3 hours and 15 minutes.

If you’re starting from Portland, take Route 295 out of the city and then hop onto Route 1 when you reach Brunswick.

If you’d rather skip Portland, go straight from Boston to Maine right into Camden instead.

Take Route 93N out of Boston until it hits Route 95N, which will take you to Portland; hop onto Route 295 just before Portland and then you’ll follow the route as described above.

The total distance from Boston to Camden, Maine, is 192 miles; if you start in Portland, it’s just under 82 miles to Camden.

Things to Do in Camden, Maine

As soon as you arrive in Camden, make sure you stop for lunch at the Boynton-McKay Food Co. (30 Main St), a local favorite for creative and flavorful dishes.

Camden offers endless natural beauty, but one of the best options is to simply explore the coastline.

Megunticook Falls (33 Main St) on Camden Waterfront Harbor is a perfect spot to enjoy the shore and take in the natural beauty of the Megunticook Lake meeting the ocean.

From there, you can pick your way among the rocks around the bay and the park.

Camden also features in our guide to Maine in the spring for its lovely Merryspring Nature Center at that time of year.

Some other beautiful spots in Camden include:

• Exploring Barrett’s Cove on Megunticook Lake
• Hiking Mount Battie in the 5,700-acre Camden Hills State Park
• Picnicking at Camden Harbor Park and Amphitheater
• Hiking through 66 acres of the natural landscape in Merry Spring Nature Center

Where to Stay in Camden, ME

Whether you’re planning a one-night stay or more, the Blackberry Inn (82 Elm St) and 16 Bay View are quaint and charming options for your trip.

Blackberry Inn is a 7-minute walk from the gorgeous Camden Harbor Park, and it feels like you’re staying in a historic mansion!

Plus, you won’t want to miss the full English/Irish or American breakfast every morning.

16 Bay View is a more upscale option right on the water — walk out the front door and take a few steps to the edge of the Megunticook River, which leads to the Camden Harbor.

You’ll love the fitness center, nightly bar, and the beautiful balcony for every room.

The Longest Option: A Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip

The last stop on this Boston to Maine road trip is beautiful Bar Harbor.

Bar Harbor is the largest town on Mt Desert Island, which is where you’ll also find Acadia National Park .

As New England’s only National Park, you can’t skip the hiking trails and stunning views if you’re road-tripping in Maine!

If you’re following our whole Boston to Maine road trip itinerary, then it’s just another 1 hour and 40-minute drive from Camden to Bar Harbor.

If you want to skip Camden and just want to travel from Portland, that drive will take you just under 3 hours.

If you’re just opting for the Boston to Bar Harbor road trip, the drive will take you about 4 hours and 40 minutes.

Whether you stop in Portland or not, the shortest route from Boston to Bar Harbor lets you skip Camden but does go right through Portland.

Take Route 93N out of Boston until it hits Route 95N.

Follow 95 until it meets Route 295 at Portland; you’ll travel north on 295 until it takes you back onto Route 95.

Once you reach Bangor, you’ll take exit 182A to get onto Route 395, which turns into Route 1A.

You’ll follow Route 1A straight into Ellsworth, which is the last major town before Mt Desert Island; you might want to stop for some groceries and fuel here.

At Ellsworth, 1A turns into Route 3, which will take you across the bridge and on toward Bar Harbor.

If you’re traveling to Bar Harbor from Camden following our full Maine coast road trip, you can just continue north on Route 1, hugging the coast for a while until cutting across to Ellsworth and taking Route 3 on toward Bar Harbor.

The total Boston to Bar Harbor driving distance is about 285 miles; from Camden to Bar Harbor is just around 77 miles.

Things to Do in Bar Harbor, Maine

Once you arrive in Bar Harbor, grab lunch at Geddy’s (19 Main St), a no-frills seafood restaurant with a full coastal menu experience.

The most prominent attraction in Bar Harbor is the iconic Acadia National Park, known for its towering mountains and cliffs and incredible coastline views.

Acadia is one of the top ten most visited national parks, pointing to its awe-inspiring beauty and unforgettable natural areas.

To get the most out of Acadia without hiking all of its 158 miles of trails, take this Acadia National Park Self Guided Driving Tour .

You’ll be able to explore more than 27 miles of historic driving roads while taking in all the best scenic views the park has to offer.

For more adventures in Bar Harbor itself, make sure you check out this Culinary Walking Tour with Tastings which you can book through Viator and GetYourGuide .

Don’t skip the Historical Guided Walking Tour if you want to learn more about this area.

You may also like our guide to Bar Harbor in the fall or Acadia in the fall for more inspiration.

Where to Stay in Bar Harbor, ME

Whether you decide to stay one night or several, there are so many wonderful hotels and inns to make you feel totally at home in Bar Harbor.

Two of our favorite hotels are the affordable Moseley Cottage Inn and Town Motel (12 Atlantic Ave) and the beautiful Bar Harbor Grand Hotel (269 Main St).

The Moseley Cottage Inn and Town Motel is a sweet bed and breakfast just steps away from Agamont Park.

Free and abundant parking at Moseley is ideal for road trippers; plus, the bed and breakfast is within walking distance from downtown!

The Bar Harbor Grand Hotel is an upscale accommodation with an outdoor heated pool, a daily deluxe breakfast, a fitness center, and a truly castle-like external appearance.

Just a short walk away from the Abbe Museum, Grant Park, and the West Street Historic District, adventurers of every kind will love staying in the Grand Hotel.

For even more accommodation options, check out our Bar Harbor hotel guides:

• Best Places to Stay in Bar Harbor and Mt Desert Island
• Hotel Guide to Bar Harbor
• Pet Friendly Stays in Bar Harbor
• Luxury Bar Harbor Hotels

Final Words

Here’s the full Boston to Maine road trip map for you to follow more easily.

Did you follow our advice for this Boston to Maine road trip from start to finish? Or did you just choose one stop along the way? We’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below!

Our Maine Travel Guides

• Best Places to Visit in Maine
• Maine in the Fall
• Maine in the Winter
• Maine in the Spring
• Maine in Summer
• All Maine Guides

Jess is a freelance writer who was raised on the North Shore of Massachusetts. They've traveled throughout New England, but they really love to explore the mountains and the shorelines of the East Coast!

2 thoughts on “ A Beautiful Boston to Maine Road Trip: 3 Coastal Stops + Things to Do in Each ”

thanks alot of information

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The Ultimate Boston to Maine Road Trip

Last updated on February 9, 2024

Lucky you! If you’re reading this post, I presume you’re planning a road trip from Boston to Maine, and if so you’re in for a treat. It’s one of the most charming road trips we’ve ever done.

You’ll pass through colourful seaside towns, picturesque coastal byways, a feast of American history, and top it all off with a visit to the spectacular Acadia National Park. And that’s not to mention the food. We were enchanted by the whole journey, and it included some of the best highlights from our whole New England road trip . 

So here’s our guide to putting together a perfect Boston to Maine road trip. We cover general tips for the Boston-Maine route, plus short guides to each destination, including things to do, places to stay and where to eat. And we delve into each destination in more detail in other posts around the site. It should be all you need for your Boston to Maine adventure.

Don’t miss our other road trip itineraries and guide to how to plan a road trip .

New England travel guides

We LOVE New England and have loads of tips to help you make the most of your trip. And just let me know if you have any questions!

Itineraries: Boston to Maine road trip | New England road trip

Destination guides: Things to do in Boston with kids | Things to do in Portsmouth, NH | Best places to vacation in Maine | Things to do in Southern Maine | Things to do in Vermont with kids | Where to find the real Stars Hollow

Accommodation guides: Glamping in New England | New England family resorts | Maine family resorts | Vermont family resorts

What is the Boston – Maine road trip like?

This route from Masschuchets to Maine dips briefly into New Hampshire, but the bulk is spent in Maine, on a gorgeous coastal Maine road trip. It’s a state that bills itself as ‘Vacationland’, and it certainly felt like that in summer. The whole coast up to Acadia is seemingly dedicated to tourism with miles of inns, roadside restaurants, antique centers, galleries and family attractions, from miniature golf to fun fairs. It’s a place of lobster rolls, colourful mansions and plentiful outdoor pursuits. A visit there fill wholesome.

The route isn’t well known in the UK, but is no secret to Americans, so the vacation vibe was palpable. And despite the focus on tourism, there’s also a strong sense of local community along the way, especially in places like Portland , Belfast and Camden where the cafe notice boards are filled with local events. There’s a definite hint of Stars Hollow.

All of this is set to a backdrop of epic coastal views, forested mountains, pristine lakes and lobstering. Plus a rich and long (for the USA) history. It’s a route that perfectly blends plentiful culture, nature and adventure, and is easy to adapt to all tastes. It’s perhaps why we saw so many multi-generation family groups vacationing along the way (see our guide to the best family resorts in Maine ).

Whether you’re travelling domestically or venturing from afar, we think it’s a place that is a surefire hit for a fabulous trip. It exceeded all our expectations.

How to use this guide to plan your route from Boston to Maine

Like with all the itineraries on Bridges and Balloons , this is a recipe for a perfect trip, but that doesn’t mean you need to use all the ingredients. You could copy it completely (and we can vouch for that being an amazing journey). Or pick and choose the destinations that speak to you and use the guide to create your own ideal route from Boston to Maine. After all, we all have different priorities. 

It’s certainly a route that’s stuffed with incredible options. For me, I’d say the only place you should definitely try to get to is Acadia – it’s the furthest point, but you definitely won’t regret it. Beyond that, I struggle to say what to prioritise as we really loved it all.

Places we didn’t visit, but that you might like to, include Cape Ann, which is a popular weekend destination from Boston. You could follow the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway to get there and stop in places like Manchester-by-the-Sea, Rockport (MA) and Gloucester. 

And in northern Maine, you could extend the trip up to Bangor (home of Stephen King). We’d have also liked to see more of the area around Acadia, including Deer Isle. Rockland, Maine is another stop many people recommended.

If you want to extend the trip around more of New England, see our full New England itinerary , which covers all six states.

And for shorter trips, I’ve also put together a guide to the best places to vacation in Maine.

Who is this route for? Families, couples?

I’ve put this post together for everyone, from couples to families to solo travellers. We did it as a family with a 3 and 5 year old. But the route would also suit couples or people going solo.

Our style of family travel means that we try to do as many “grown-up” things as we can, while also keeping the kids happy with visits to playgrounds and family-friendly museums etc. So this itinerary, like most of our posts, is still well suited to adults as well as kids – you might just skip some of the more kid-focussed activities. 

Our Boston to Maine road trip at a glance

• Boston – 3 nights
• Salem – stop en route
• Portsmouth – stop en route
• Southern Maine – 2 nights 
• Camden/Rockport/Belfast – 3 nights 
• Portland – 2 nights 
• Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor – 3 nights

Boston to Maine road trip map

Boston to Maine road trip FAQs

How long do you need for a boston to bar harbor road trip.

The Boston to Bar Harbor drive only takes 4 hours 50 minutes with no stops. However, we recommend at least a week so you can make the most of it all. Ten days to two weeks would allow you to go at a leisurely pace and spend around two nights in each destination. That said, a week would be ample for the highlights.

One approach would be to only stay the night in Portland and Bar Harbor, and treat all the other destinations as stops along the way. Of course, if you’re not familiar with Boston, then make sure to add at least a night or two to explore the city.

We spent 10 days on the trip, plus a week in Boston. However, if I did it again in 10 days, I’d add an extra night in Portland (to stay in the city) and spend one less night in Camden. A night in Ogunquit or Portsmouth would have also been nice, rather than just visiting those places on day trips.

If you’re doing a round trip and need to get back to Boston, perhaps choose one of the stops for an overnight stay to break up the drive (maybe Belfast or Portland).

When to drive from Boston to Maine

By far the most popular time to drive from Boston to Maine is autumn when leaf peepers flock to New England to see the famous fall foliage. The best time to catch the leaves at their most glorious is generally between late September to mid-October. But differing weather each year may alter this slightly. See below for the best places to see fall foliage on this route.

We did the Boston to Bar Harbor road trip in the summer, from late July to early August. It’s a gorgeous time to visit with long, mostly sunny days. It got a bit humid at times, but this was generally tempered by being close to the ocean. And we did have the odd thunderstorm and cloudy day. I liked this time of year because of the vacation vibes of all the coastal towns – it felt like everyone was there to have a good time.

Spring is a quieter option. And in the winter, you could enjoy some winter sports along the way. Although bear in mind, it does get very cold, especially in Maine where you can expect snow from December – February.

Where are the best places to see fall foliage from Boston to Maine?

The whole route from Boston to Acadia is filled with opportunities to see New England’s famous fall foliage, especially along the coastal Old Route 1. 

Some of the highlights for fall foliage in Maine and along this route include:

• Acadia National Park (especially the view from Cadillac Mountain)
• Camden Hills State Park in Camden, Maine (great view from Mount Battie)
• Boston Common, Arnold Arboretum and the tree-lined streets of Beacon Hill in Boston
• Kennebunkport and its mansions surrounded by trees
• Portsmouth where the fall foliage makes the pretty town even more spectacular

What to pack for a Boston to Maine road trip

Layers are the way to go for New England’s variable climate, and you’ll definitely want to bring a raincoat whatever the season. 

A few more essentials:

• Insect repellant , especially in the summer
• Comfy walking shoes 
• The cute little New England Field Notes by Wildsam
• Tick remover – there are a lot of ticks in New England, so it’s important to do a daily tick check. These little devices are meant to be good for removing them.

How to get from Boston to Maine

We hired a car with Discover Cars , which is our favourite site for rentals nowadays. They search hundreds of other rental companies and tend to always come back with the best deals. They also have good cancellation/amendment policies. 

As an alternative, I also recommend Expedia , another place that gets good deals. 

Our actual rental was with Dollar, but it’s cheaper to book through a third party rather than with them directly.  

Bear in mind it’s often cheaper to rent for a week-long period rather than an odd number of days (you often get a discount for seven days or a month), so play around with the booking dates and see what comes up. Find the latest car hire deals here .

Tips for driving around Massachusetts and Maine

Consider the scenic routes.

The route from Boston to Maine passes through some stunning scenery, including a couple of official scenic byways: New Hampshire Coastal Bywayand the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway. These are right next to each other, covering the whole length of coast from just south of Salem, through Cape Ann, up to Portsmouth. 

When planning your route, consider taking these routes and doing a scenic drive from Boston to Bar Harbor, rather than any shorter alternative that Google suggests. We only did part of the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway on our itinerary, but you might choose to drive the whole thing and add Rockport to your itinerary too.

Be ready for toll roads

Be prepared for tolls, especially in Massachusetts. Keep some cash on hand or consider an electronic toll pass for convenience. Most toll booths don’t accept payment by card, so if you don’t have cash or a toll pass, you have to pay online that day to avoid a fine.

Be aware of the weather

New England weather can be unpredictable. Be prepared for varying conditions, especially during the fall and winter months. Check weather forecasts regularly, and pack accordingly.

Think about parking

In cities like Boston, parking can be challenging. Use public transportation when exploring downtown, and try to find accommodation with parking facilities. Also familiarise yourself with the different parking restrictions and signs. We got a parking ticket in Boston because we misunderstood the sign. 

Where to stay in New England

We stayed in some gorgeous places in New England. As you can imagine, they do charming guesthouses really well, plus there are some lush opportunities to stay in lodges amid the region’s glorious nature.

We’ve detailed everywhere we stayed in the accommodation section for each destination below. Plus we also have separate guides to the best New England family resorts , the best family resorts in Maine , and the best Vermont resorts .

Boston to Maine road trip stops

Boston is a stunner of a city with gorgeous historic buildings, a riverside location and plenty going on to keep you occupied for days. Birthplace of the American Revolution and home to two of the USA’s most prestigious universities, it has a refined air that’s balanced by down-to-earth locals, fiercely proud of their city’s history (and the Red Sox!). It’s also home to one of my favorite accents in all of America.  

I loved it more than I’d anticipated, and especially found it to be a brilliant destination for families. I’ve written a full guide to things to do in Boston with kids . 

Things to do in Boston

I’d recommend spending at least a couple of days in Boston, but there’s easily enough to fill a week or even more. Here are some of the highlights:

• Wander around the Beacon Hill neighborhood. This was my favourite spot in Boston, an area characterized by its historic buildings and cute boutiques. Don’t miss the Beacon Hill Bookstore .
• Go to the SoWa Open Market on a Sunday. The South End district, home to many galleries and hip boutiques and restaurants, is also worth visiting any day of the week.
• Hop over the bridge and visit Harvard (technically in Cambridge rather than Boston). 
• Go on an iconic Boston Duck Tour for an excellent intro to the city (very touristy, but worth it).
• View Boston is a perfect place to go up high and get an overview of the city’s landscape.
• See the Red Sox at Fenway Park (it was a highlight of our whole time in New England).
• Relax at Boston Common and the Boston Public Garden where you can ride the historic swan boats and kids can cool off in the Frog Pond (or ice skate there during the winter).
• Follow the Freedom Trail , marked by a redbrick line, for an insight into Boston’s history and the American Revolution. 
• Explore the city’s world class museums. Boston has some brilliant museums, and we especially loved the Science Museum and the epic Children’s Museum . Other great options include the Isabella Stewart Gardener Museum and the Mapparium.

Where to eat and drink in Boston

Boston doesn’t have a reputation as a foodie city, but there are lots of excellent meals to be had, especially in the food markets and in some of the neighbourhoods away from the city centre, like Jamaica Plain and South End.

Here are some of my top picks…

• Tres Gatos – a cool spot in Jamaica Plain for brunch or tapas. It was the best meal we had in Boston
• Boston Public Market – a one-stop shop for lots of Boston favourites, including Bon Me (a Vietnamese food truck turned restaurant) and Boston Public Donuts. The coffee at George Howell is also excellent. 
• Life Alive – a casual chain of Boston cafes, serving healthy vegan food in a characterful setting.
• Mei Mei Street Kitchen
• Regina’s  or  Umberto’s in the North End/Little Italy for some of the city’s best pizza
• Casa Verde – another favourite in Jamaica Plain, this time serving top notch Mexican food. 
• J.P.Licks – the place to go for ice cream. They have branches across the city. 
• Mike’s Pastry – famous for its humongous cannolis in a rainbow of colours and flavours. 

Where to stay in Boston

Boston has lots of different neighbourhoods to choose from, all with a different character. For luxury and convenience, head to Back Bay or downtown. We stayed in Seaport, which is a rapidly developing neighborhood with lots of restaurants, museums (including the amazing Children’s Museum) and green space. It’s also really convenient for the airport (about a 15-minute drive).

We also did a home exchange in Jamaica Plain, which was a great opportunity to experience local Boston life and eat at some of our favourite restaurants in Boston. It’s around 20 minutes from downtown on the train and home to the fabulous arboretum. 

Homewood Suites by Hilton Boston Seaport District

In Seaport, we stayed at the Homewood Suites by Hilton. It’s convenient for public transport with a bus stop less than 5 minutes from the door. And the views were great from the upper floors. They just need to cut down on their single-use plastic.

Check the latest deals and book now.

How to get around Boston

Boston has a great public transport system made up of buses, commuter rail and the ‘T’ (the city’s subway service). This map shows the routes for the ‘T’ and commuter rail . We used both while there with ease. It was especially useful when staying in Jamaica Plain and traveling into the city centre. It felt clean and safe, especially in comparison to New York. We also used the bus system, which again was easy to navigate. 

Parking is fairly plentiful in garages around the city, but it’s expensive (starting around $12 for an hour), so I’d recommend using public transport instead. That said, it does get incrementally cheaper the longer you park. To search for garages, we used Parkopedia .   

I bet a dollar the first thing you think of when you hear the word Salem is witches (either the witch trials or Sabrina!). And of course, this is the reason most people visit.

Home to the infamous witch trials of 1692, it has a mysterious and horrifying past. The city has leant into that reputation and its now an epicentre for the occult.

Explore its history at the Salem Witch Museum. And to fully appreciate it all, visit around Halloween when crowds flock to the city.

But bear the mind Salem does have more to offer than witches. There are gorgeous historic homes and a rich maritime history. Plus it’s also the birthplace of Nathaniel Hawthorne. 

For this itinerary, we recommend stopping in Salem en route to Portsmouth or Southern Maine. But you could also spend a night there.

Things to do in Salem

Some of the highlights for things to do in Salem include: 

• Visit the Salem Witch Museum (not suitable for young children as it’s frightening in parts).
• Learn all about Salem’s history and culture on one of these guided tours: Guided Nighttime Tour ; Haunted Pub Crawl ; Witch trials tour or this self-guided audio walk .
• Explore the Salem Maritime National Historic Site where you can tour historic ships and waterfront warehouses.
• Go to the House of the Seven Gables (made famous by Nathaiel Hawthorne’s novel).
• Wander the cobblestone streets and explore the well preserved Colonial and federal-style architecture.
• Visit Ye Olde Pepper Candy Companie , the oldest candy store in the USA.
• Visit the Peabody Essex Museum , a world class gallery and museum of the arts

Where to eat and drink in Salem

• The Lobster Shanty – in their words: “the local dive bar that secretly has class” 
• Sea Level Oyster Bar – for seafood and harbour views
• Ugly Mug Diner – puts a modern spin on diner classics
• Bambolina – for the best pizza in town
• Bit Bar – arcade games and creative snacks
• Howling Wolf Taqueria – best Mexican food in Salem
• Jaho Coffee & Tea – Salem-based roaster that has now gone international

How to get around Salem

If you’re reading this post, you’ll more than likely be arriving to Salem by car. But it’s also possible to get there via the commuter rail from Boston. Check MBTA for schedules .

Once there, Salem is easily walkable. Boston’s Blue Bike system has been extended to Salem. And there’s a trolley tour . Or they even have their own ride-share system, the Salem Skipper .

Portsmouth, NH

Portsmouth, New Hampshire’s coastal city, was the first place we experienced that quintessential New England charm and its characteristic Georgian and Federal architecture. It’s so colourful that we invented a game called “rainbow houses” where we had to spot a house of every colour. It became a staple road trip game for the whole trip!

The small, walkable city dates back to the 17th century when it played an important role in colonial trade and shipbuilding. Nowadays, it retains an old-world charm with cobbled streets, historic homes and chances to explore the city’s past. Even if history isn’t your thing, you’ll still sure to be charmed by Portsmouth’s beauty. Plus there are lots of chances to get out on the water too.

Things to do in Portsmouth, NH

We’re writing a full guide to things to do in Portsmouth, but here are a few highlights…

• Step back in time at the Strawberry Banke Museum , an open-air history museum that showcases the evolution of Portsmouth from the 17th to the 20th century. 
• Stroll the waterfront at Prescott Park , bordering the Piscataqua River. 
• Explore Portsmouth’s lively downtown , filled with cute shops, restaurants and museums. 
• You could also do this self-guided bike tour to see some of the city’s highlights.
• Get out on the water to enjoy Portsmouth’s coastal location. There are loads of options , from harbour cruises and sunset sails to hiring your own paddleboard.

Where to eat and drink in Portsmouth, NH

See our Portsmouth guide for all our favourite Portsmouth restaurants, but here are some highlights:

• Fezziwig’s Food & Fountain – an old school ice cream parlour and soda shop
• Portsmouth Book and Bar – a gem of a place, combining books, coffee and a bar
• Surf Portsmouth or Old Ferry Landing   – sample the seafood that Portsmouth is most famous for
• Earth Eagle Brewings or Great Rhythm Brewing Company – for some of the city’s best craft beer

Where to stay in Portsmouth, NH

We stayed around 45 minutes outside of Portsmouth at Huttopia (see the section on Southern Maine), but these are some well reviewed options in the city itself. 

The Hotel Portsmouth

The Hotel Portsmouth is part of the Lark Hotel group, which prides itself on unique accommodation and memorable stays. The mansion house hotel is just steps from Market Square and is a beautiful example of Queen Anne Victorian architecture.

Check availability and book here. 

Hotel Thaxter

Probably the most beautiful boutique hotel in Portsmouth is Hotel Thaxter where minimalist art deco decor is the backdrop for Portsmouth native Celiz Thaxter’s art and inspirational life. The 15-room hotel is beautifully designed and centrally located.

Sailmaker’s House

Renovated in 2017, but dating back to 1801, The Sailmaker’s House has historic charm, modern tech and stylish decor with a maritime edge.

How to get around Portsmouth, NH

Downtown Portsmouth is easily walkable. For parking, try High-Hanover Parking Garage or Foundry Place Garage . Or there’s metered parking for around $1.50 per hour.

There’s also the Coast Bus system that has accessible buses around Portsmouth and the Seacoast.

Southern Maine

Southern Maine is a gorgeous area of quaint seaside towns, sandy beaches and rugged coast. It encompasses Portland and everywhere south of the city. I’ve covered Portland by itself in the next section, so this one focuses on some of the smaller towns of Southern Maine, including Ogunquit and the Kennebunks. 

I hadn’t heard of most of these places before this trip, but Ogunquit was one of my favourite towns we visited. We highly recommend spending at least a night in this area to get a taste of the charm of small-town coastal Maine, and part of what makes this route so special.

Things to do in Southern Maine

See our guide to Southern Maine for loads more things to do and places to eat and stay, but here are some of the highlights.

• Ogunquit: Ogunquit is immediately charming with cute, candy-coloured homes, tree-lined streets, a gorgeous coastline and the exciting bustle of a popular seaside town. Its name literally means “the beautiful place by the sea”. Spend time in the town and beaches, and don’t miss the spectacular Marginal Way , a cliff walk along the rugged shoreline.
• The Kennebunks: the Kennebunks includes Kennebunk and Kennebunkport, the latter most famous for being the home of the Bush family’s summer compound. But the towns are about much more than that. They have a beautiful, old-world charm – think cobblestone streets, riverside walks and historic Colonial and Greek Revival architecture. 
• Wells : another cute coastal town where you can enjoy a beach day or coastal walk. But perhaps the biggest reason to visit is to stop at the famous Maine Diner .

Where to eat and drink in Southern Maine 

Find plenty more food and drink recommendations in our Southern Maine guide, but here’s a handful of favourites. 

• Maine Diner – Maine’s most iconic diner and one that road trippers have religiously stopped at since the 1940s. 
• Dock Square Coffee House – a charming coffee shop in Kennebunkport that reminded me of Luke’s Diner in the Gilmore Girls.
• Sweet Pea’s Ice Cream – one of the best ice creams we had in all of New England.
• Maggie’s Dine and Drive – a drive-through diner serving hearty breakfast sandwiches

Where to stay in Southern Maine 

Here are some top recommendations, plus also see our guide to the best family resorts in Maine.

Huttopia Southern Maine

We stayed at Huttopia Southern Maine, a stylish glamping spot on the shores of a lake, amid a glorious pine forest. It’s perfect for families with everything you need, from a playground to a pool to kids’ entertainment and a family-friendly restaurant.  Choose from safari tents or cabins and spend a few days relaxing in nature.

Nellie Littlefield Inn & Spa

We ate ice creams next to the Nellie Littlefield Inn & Spa while I lusted over its architecture and style. It looks perfectly charming and the reviews confirm that.

Awol Kennebunkport

Awol Kennebunkport is a beautifully designed eco hotel that looks straight out of the pages of Kinfolk magazine. 

How to get around Southern Maine

While the seaside towns of Southern Maine tend to be highly walkable, you’ll ideally need a car to get between them. I give more details on the individual towns in our guide to Southern Maine. 

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine was one of our favourite places in New England and a place I could easily see myself living. It oddly has a lot of similarities with Portland, Oregon , including a fantastic culinary scene and a decidedly hipster bent. It’s much smaller in size, but packs a lot in, from galleries to green space to an amazing craft brew scene. And being on the shores of Casco Bay means you’re never far from the sea and the lick of salty air. 

As with all the cool places, it’s suffering from gentrification that’s pushing all the people out who made it cool in the first place – but for now, it remains one of the USA’s most vibrant and exciting small cities. 

Things to do in Portland Maine 

We’ve written a full guide to things to do in Portland, Maine, so pop over there for more details. But here are a few of the highlights…

• Explore hipster Munjoy Hill where you’ll find what makes Portland so much like its sister in Oregon. We knew it as soon as we saw the local kombuchery ! It’s also home to the Portland Observatory , which has a great view across the city. And then wander down to the Eastern Promenade park for food trucks and ocean views.
• Explore the Arts District, including the Portland Museum of Art . 
• Visit Peaks Island, a small island around 15 minutes from Portland where you can walk, bike, or even hire a golf cart.
• See the Portland Head Light, the oldest lighthouse in Maine. 
• Wander Old Port with its narrow, cobblestone streets, red-brick buildings and many great restaurants and bars. 
• Do a tour. We saw this cool firetruck tour doing the rounds, which looks like a fun way to see the city. There’s also a trolley tour , self-guided walking tour , or even a food tour or brewery and pub tour . Or you could get out on the water and do a sightseeing cruise , ride on a tall ship or join a lobstering adventure. Or even opt for a kayak !
• You could also head north to Freeport, home of the flagship L.L.Bean store .
• Visit the International Crypto Zoology Museum (the study of hidden or unknown animals)!

Where to eat and drink in Portland, ME

This is the question on everyone’s lips when you say you’ve been to Portland: where did you eat? It’s known for its creative locavore dining scene and attracts foodies from across the country ( same as Portland Oregon does ).

These are a few highlights:

• Restaurante El Corazon – an atmospheric and kid-friendly family-run restaurant
• Food trucks at Thompson’s Point – these are some of the best in the city 
• Tandem Coffee – said by coffee snobs to be the best in Portland 
• Jing Yan – some say Jing Yan serves the best Asian food in all of Portland. But it also has Izakaya Minato, Miyake and Cong Tu Bot to contend with. It seems you can’t really go wrong with any of them.
• Eventide Oyster Co. – the place to go for seafood
• Chaval – one of Portland’s most popular restaurants that defines its locavore scene.

Where to stay in Portland, ME

Fortland is one of the best places we’ve ever stayed. Set within Fort Scammel on House Island, just a 10-minute boat trip from the city, it feels a world away from urban life. Go there to see how owners Stefan and Katrina have created a beautiful land of stylish yurts, communal spaces and the ideal place to simply “get away from it all”.

Check availability and book here.  

Hotels in Portland city

If you want to be in the city of Portland itself, we heard good reviews of the Blind Tiger Portland and Pomegranate Inn , which are both really stylish boutique hotels. If I had to choose, I’d say Blind Tiger has the edge. 

How to get around Portland, Maine 

Parts of the city, including Old Port, are walkable. But to get between different areas, you’ll need wheels. There’s a bike share system or you could hire a bike . And taxis are readily available with rideshare apps like Uber or Grab.

There’s also a public bus system that services the city. We explored by car and found parking pretty easy to find.

Camden, Maine 

We visited Camden by chance when a Home Exchange opportunity came up. And it turned out to be a highlight from our trip. The cute seaside town on Penobscot Bay is no secret to New Englanders, but for people like me, it was a surprise. 

The supremely cute downtown has an interesting mix of traditional stores, upscale boutiques (a necklace caught my eye that cost over $4k!) and a fair few creative hipster places, like Goods and Pastoralia.

We loved spending a few days there, slowing down, enjoying the water and meandering around the streets. It’s no wonder it’s a popular vacation spot.

Things to do in Camden Maine

• Camden Hills State Park – the 5,700-acre Camden Hills State Park has 30 miles of hiking trails and includes Mount Battie, which you can either hike or drive. 
• Barrett’s Cove – we spent a beautiful afternoon at Barrett’s Cove, which is a great place for a swim and a picnic. 
• Get out on the water and see Penobscot Bay on a boat tour, like this sunset sailing cruise or historic schooner day trip .
• Visit Curtis House Overlook for a fantastic view of the historic lighthouse.
• We also recommend visiting neighboring Rockport, another cute fishing village. And Belfast is a bigger, less tourist-focussed town, about a 25-minute drive away.

Where to eat in Camden Maine

The first thing to know about eating out in Camden Maine is that places close pretty early around 9pm with last orders around an hour before that. We got caught out the first night when we wanted to get a takeout after the boys were asleep, and the only place left for food was a brewpub.

But if you’re early enough (and remember to book in advance), these are some excellent options. 

• Zoot Coffee – the place to go for hipster coffee in Camden.
• Owl & Turtle Bookshop Cafe   – our favourite spot in Camden. A charming bookshop with a cute cafe downstairs – what’s not to like? 
• Long Grain – book in advance for Camden’s wildly popular Asian restaurant.
• Mixed Greens – go here for a healthy fix of salad bowls and grains.
• Goods – a minimalist hipster cafe and deli, plus a bar on weekend nights.
• Lucky Betty’s – an eclectic, colourful bar, serving great cocktails.
• Peter Otts on the Water and Waterfront are two of the most highly recommended seafood options.

Where to stay in Camden

Lord camden inn.

Our home exchange was canceled so we stayed at The Lord Camden Inn , a charming boutique hotel on Main Street with exceptionally friendly hospitality.

The elegant, traditional rooms are comfy, some with cosy fireplaces. And they serve a daily buffet breakfast, including a freshly baked treat.

Our kids (and I!) loved the free cookies in reception.

16 Bay View

16 Bay View is the sister hotel of the Lord Camden Inn. We were given a free drinks token for their bar when we checked in, so visited one day.

It has a sophisticated bar downstairs, plus a rooftop bar and restaurant with fabulous views of the harbour.

16 Bay View is slightly more modern than the Lord Camden Inn, but has the same focus on elegance, comfort and top notch service.

How to get around Camden, Maine

Downtown Camden is completely walkable. And you could feasibly visit without a car as there are coaches and shuttle services that take you from Portland airport and other towns in Mid Coast Maine.

Once in town, a rideshare like Uber is unlikely, but there are some taxi companies, including Craft , which can take you to nearby sights (just be sure to book in advance).

Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor

Acadia National Park, the sacred land of the  Wabanaki  people, has the sort of name that promises magic, and its special blend of mountains, rugged coast, forests and lakes is a reality that delivers.

You could easily spend a week there, but we only had a few days so concentrated on Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island. If we’d had more time, we’d have also explored the Schoodic Peninsula and Deer Isle. 

I fell head over heels for Bar Harbor, the town next to Acadia. It brought to life a lot of my Stars Hollow dreams, complete with a bandstand and lively local community. And Acadia itself is stunning and really easy for families. It’s undoubtedly one of Maine’s biggest highlights. 

We have a guide to the best of Bar Harbor, plus a guide to how to visit Acadia with kids, but here are some of the highlights.

Things to do in Acadia National Park

What you choose to do in Acadia will somewhat depend on how adventurous you want to, or can, be. There are options for all levels and abilities. Here are some of the highlights…

• Drive the Park Loop road – the most accessible way to explore Acadia, including stops at Sand Beach, Thunder Hole, Jordan Pond and Cadillac Mountain. You need a pass to enter the park. Add on this audio guide for commentary along the way .
• Jordan Pond Loop – an easy, flat 3.3-mile hike
• Bubbles Trail – one of the park’s most popular moderate hikes, including two short spur trails.
• Hire a bike and explore the 45 miles of carriage roads , a network of car-free roads throughout the park, offering spectacular views of the sights. You can also explore them on a horse and carriage ride . We hired bikes and a trailer from Acadia Bike Rentals .
• See the sunrise at Cadillac Mountian, almost the furthest point east in the USA. Make sure to reserve a vehicle pass beforehand if you want to drive up. We went later in the day and the view was still spectacular.
• Learn about the history of Acadia and the Wabanaki people at the Abbe Museum
• Explore the beautiful town of Bar Harbor, filled with quaint shops, restaurants with cute gardens, and a bustling village square, complete with a bandstand. 
• Go tide pooling on Bar Island or near Bass Harbor Lighthouse.
• Do a boat trip to see the national park from the water. There are lots of options, including whale watching trips, scenic, sightseeing cruises, and fishing excursions.

Where to eat and drink in Acadia National Park

We have more detailed food options in our Bar Harbor guide, but here are some highlights…

• Jordan Pond House – the only restaurant inside the park and the home of the famous Jordan Pond popovers.
• Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast – a fantastic traditional American diner with excellent service 
• Mount Desert Island Ice Cream – for small batch, innovative flavors
• Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium – for sweets and lobster-flavoured ice cream!
• Two Cats – excellent brunch in a cute historic house.
• Side Street – popular crowd-pleaser with a family atmosphere (they even give the kids modelling clay on arrival)

Where to stay in Acadia National Park

Villager motel.

We stayed at the Villager Motel , which is a budget option right in the centre of Bar Harbor, in walking distance of everything. Despite its budget prices, it’s still clean and comfy and there’s a breakfast buffet every morning. The kids also appreciated the pool.

Ivy Manor Inn

If you have a bigger budget, the Ivy Manor Inn , across the street from the Villager Motel, looked amazing. They have lots of fire pits that guests gather around, drinking cocktails come eventide.

Salt Cottages

On the way into Bar Harbor, there are lots of cute guesthouses that caught my eye, including the Salt Cottages . You’d have to weigh up their cuteness with the convenience of being in walking distance of everything in town. I’d perhaps lean more towards convenience.

How to get around Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

Bar Harbor and Acadia are fairly easy to explore without a car. The town of Bar Harbor is walkable unless you stay outside the main downtown area. And from there, you can either hire bikes or use the Island Explorer Shuttle , which is a free service that takes you all around Mount Desert Island. 

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Our road trip itineraries

See all our road trip itineraries here. And don’t miss our guide to how to plan a road trip .

UK :  Best UK road trips  | Best Scotland road trips

Europe road trips:   Amalfi Coast, Rome and Tuscany road trip  |  Best Europe road trips  |  Best France road trips | Best Greece road trips  |  Best Italy road trips  |  Iceland road trip | Best Portugal road trips   | Slovenia road trip  |  Best Spain road trips  |  The most colourful road trip in Europe (France, Italy and Switzerland)

USA:   Boston to Maine road trip  |  Ultimate California road trip  |  New England road trip  | Oregon road trip |  Pacific Coast Highway  |  San Francisco to Seattle  |  Southern USA road trip  |  The best USA road trips

Africa road trips:   Cape Peninsula road trip

Australasia road trips:   New Zealand North Island road trip  |  New Zealand South Island road trip

2 thoughts on “The Ultimate Boston to Maine Road Trip”

Friends trip for 7 nights…for Boston to Maine with flights to Boston from Dallas, what would you estimate trip to cost per person on average?

Perfect itinerary to look into! Planning to follow it next May, thank you for taking the time to share with us!

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Perfect Planning Guide For a Southern Coastal Maine Road Trip

New England has been in my blood since I was born. Every year we would road trip up the East Coast from Philadelphia into New Hampshire to hike around the White Mountains, and through the small towns along the coast of Maine. 

My parents took us hiking up Cadillac Mountain, exploring historic Kennebunkport, and walking the beaches of Acadia National Park, trails on Mount Desert Island and streets of Bar Harbor. We camped, stayed in cabins and even a few hotels.

When it came time for me to bring my boys up to Maine, we headed straight to Portland to explore, and even made our way up to Freeport to see the home of L.L. Bean and the northernmost desert in the United States. 

As we began to plan our next road trip in Maine, I knew I wanted to head south. I grew up thinking that Maine was filled with only rocky beaches. After a stay in Cape Elizabeth , and knowing what awaited me in the quaint town of Kennebunkport after visiting as a child, I knew my boys and I would love to wander the southern sandy beaches of Maine together.

They would get outside, I’d be able to sneak in a little educational activities, and we’d get to sample lobster and crab, because everyone knows that Maine is one of the best places in the world to grab a lobster roll and fresh seafood.

Why Coastal Maine?

Planning a coastal road trip through Maine isn’t that tricky. There are plenty of spots along the way, so you are never in the car for too long. 

You’ll find gorgeous sandy beaches in southern Maine, rocky cliffs, lighthouses and cute historic downtown spots filled with delicious food, and historic districts with art galleries, locally-owned shops and people watching galore. 

When should you go to Maine? 

The summer months are for sitting on the beach, eating too much ice cream and enjoying any number of epic Maine road trips. 

Autumn brings a rainbow of fall colors and loads of leaf peepers to see the leaves start to fall. 

Winter is low-season, which means more things will be closed, but there are also more deals to be had. And snow, lots of snow. 

Spring is when the locals start to come out of hibernation, leaves start to pop back on the trees and wildflowers fill the fields and rocky coastlines on Maine. 

Planning a Maine Road Trip

Before you start planning one of the best road trips you will ever take, you need to figure out a few logistics. A family vacation can’t start until you know where you are going, how you are getting there and what to do in Maine once you start your journey.

Portland, ME is a great spot to start your journey, as the airport offers numerous direct flights from across the country. It’s an easy drive south down to York along I-95, so you can make this a truly leisurely road trip that the whole family can enjoy, without feeling like they need a vacation from their vacation at the end.

Which airport in Maine?

Portland, Maine, the largest city in Maine, also has the largest airport in the state. Search for flights to Portland International Jetport, using airport code PWM.

If you live in Boston, or it’s easier to fly into Boston, Massachusetts, you can drive north along I-95 right out of Boston and journey from York, through Kennebunkport to Cape Elizabeth to end your journey. 

For now, we’ll pretend you flew into Portland though, and take the southern route down the coast of Maine.

Grab a Rental Car in Portland, ME

All of the major car rental chains have a parking lot in Portland. If you have loyalty points to spare, don’t worry, you can cash them in here with Hertz, Alamo, Avis, Enterprise and your other favorites.

Check rates and availability on car rentals .

Portland Hotels (in case you get in late)

While I like to head straight to Cape Elizabeth to spend a few days, there are a few hotels in Portland, ME you can check out.

• The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection : Modern, historic hotel in the old Portland Press Herald building, originally built in 1923. More details.
• Portland Harbor Hotel : Family rooms + the only AAA rated 4 diamond hotel in Old Port. More Details .
• Blind Tiger : Boutique historic hotel on the west end with family rooms and free breakfast. More Details.
• Portland Regency Hotel & Spa : pet-friendly hotel right near the waterfront. More Details.
• Canopy Hilton Portland Waterfront : Suites and rooms with water or city views. More Details.

Bed & Breakfasts in Portland, MD

• The Chadwick Bed & Breakfast | More Details
• The Mercury | More Details
• Pomegranate Inn | More Details

Things to do in Portland, ME

If you are spending any time in Portland, Maine, you will want to grab a hotel in Downtown Portland. Even if it’s just for one night, you can grab a beautiful hotel room, have a delicious meal, and keep the kids entertained at the Portland Museum of Art, the Portland Head Light and the incredible Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine, which has recently opened in new space at Thompson’s Point.

Even if you aren’t a big fan of children’s museums (like me), this one is worth checking out if you have little ones. And yes parents, there are plenty of places for you to sit down.

More things to do in Portland, ME

Road Trip Stops Along the Southern Maine Coast and the Maine Beaches Region

You may be surprised to learn that it is only an hour drive from Cape Elizabeth to York, Maine, if you drive without stopping. This is why I love starting our Maine trips from Cape Elizabeth. It’s convenient to everything in Portland, including rental cars and the airport, but you feel worlds away from the big city. 

It also makes me want to get out and explore even more since Cape is beyond gorgeous.

Cape Elizabeth

With less than 10,000 people making up Cape Elizabeth, you know you are in for a scenic drive filled with green spaces and beaches worth visiting. 

The first time I visited, I was so confused– how could there be sandy beaches in Maine? Rocky cliffs are all I knew of the Maine beaches from my youth. 

Hotels in Cape Elizabeth, ME

The Inn by the Sea is pretty much THE spot to stay when you want to be in Cape Elizabeth. It’s a destination in and of itself, with hotel room and condo-style lodging options perfect for families. You get sea views, and it’s just a short walk down a private path to the sandy beach at Crescent Beach State Park.

If you can’t find a room at the Inn by the Sea, spend the day in Cape Elizabeth and return to Portland for your overnight stay. Alternatively, you can stay further south in Scarborough at the Comfort Inn and Suites.

• Inn by the Sea : Luxury, family-friendly and pet-friendly New England resort (try the blueberry butter!) More Details
• Comfort Inn and Suites (Scarborough): Budget chain with reasonable room prices. More Details .

Things to do in Cape Elizabeth

When you visit Cape Elizabeth, it’s all about the outdoors. Check out the local lighthouses, Fort Williams or one of the state parks and trails in the area. If you are looking for history, the Goddard Mansion is where you will find Maine’s past. 

Fort Williams Park

My boys loved running around Fort Williams Park. They are obsessed with wars from the past, and any military installments they can climb around and wander. While much of Fort Williams has been destroyed by time and long-past residents to clear space for other buildings, you can still wander past the remaining structures and the remnants of old buildings. 

Portland Head Lighthouse

Portland Head Lighthouse is the most popular attraction in Fort Williams Park, but plan at least a morning or long afternoon to explore. The ricky beaches are fun for kids to climb, and the cliff walk gives you beautiful views of the Cape. 

Goddard Mansion

The Goddard Mansion is on the grounds of Fort Williams Park, but is fenced off to the public as it is in disrepair and not safe to enter. You can view the mansion’s exterior from the public trails in Fort Williams Park.

More Cape Elizabeth Parks

• Crescent Beach State Park
• Great Pond Trail
• Winnick Woods Greenbelt Trail

Cape Elizabeth Lighthouses

There are two lighthouses in Cape Elizabeth, but only one you can actually visit. 

Portland Head Lighthouse was the first lighthouse in Maine and has a museum and seasonal gift shop that are accessible to the public. 

Two Lights , used to be home to two working lighthouses– East Light and West Light. The East light was the most visible lighthouse in all of New England. Sailors could see the lamp shining from 27 nautical miles away. 

Walk out on the rocks overlooking Casco Bay and the Atlantic Ocean to get a look of the rocky coast and rough surf Two Lights warned incoming ships to avoid. 

Drive from Cape Elizabeth to Kennebunkport

The drive from Cape Elizabeth to Kennebunkport isn’t boring for anyone of any age. You can check out a new-to-you beach, hike around a state park, or simply splash around (and zip down slides!) at FuntownSplashtown USA. 

Things to do between Cape Elizabeth and Kennebunkport

• Saco Beach Preserve
• Old Orchard Beach
• Ferry Beach State Park
• Fortunes Rocks Beach
• Funtown Splashtown USA

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a quiet coastal town filled with good food, art galleries and small, locally-owned boutiques. Most people head to town in the summer for the beaches, but it is beautiful all throughout the year. Yes, even in the colder months. 

Former President George H.W. Bush has a home in Kennebunkport. If you cruise by and the flag is up, it means someone is home on Walker’s Point. 

How much time should you spend in Kennebunkport? 

Kennebunkport is small but mighty. Personally, I’d plan at least three days if possible. You could enjoy a day trip as you pass through, but this coastal town really deserves a lot more time.   

Hotels in Kennebunkport

• Nonantum Resort : Walking distance to everything in town, pool, yoga classes, family activities and free breakfast. More Details.
• The Boathouse Waterfront Hotel : Enjoy boating on the Kennebunkport River, bike rentals, views of the water from your room and walking distance to most things in town. More Details .
• Nathaniel Lord Mansion : One of the four houses in the Captains Collection, featuring 16 rooms, free breakfast and suites available. More Details.
• The Lodge on the Cove : Beautifully refurbished motor lodge with a modern Maine vibe,  swimming pool and family rooms. More Details.
• The Breakwater Inn and Spa: One of the most historic Kennebunkport hotels in town with suites, children activities and a spa onsite. More Details .

What to do in Kennebunkport, ME

There are a lot of things to do in Kennebunkport, but if you only have a few days, here’s the highlights you don’t want to miss. 

Shopping in Dock Square

Dock Square is filled with adorable shops, art galleries and restaurants with patios that are perfect for people watching. Enjoy a lobster roll with a local beer, before you shop til you drop. 

Gooch’s Beach

Head to Gooch’s Beach, sometimes called Kennebunkport Beach, to play in the water, watch the surfers try to catch a wave and soak in the beauty of Southern coastal Maine. In the summer months, there are lifeguards on duty. 

Goat Island Lighthouse

One of the best lighthouses in Maine, Goat Island Lighthouse is just off Cape Porpoise near Kennebunkport, ME. Built in 1835, the current lighthouse was updated in 1859 with a brick tower and a fifth order Fresnel lens. 

Keep in mind that you can only access the lighthouse grounds by boat. If you get there, the keepers are happy to give you a tour during the summer. You can not climb the tower. 

Kennebunkport Museums

There are two museums in town worth checking out when you aren’t gallery hopping– First Families Kennebunkport Museum and the Seashore Trolley Museum. Both dig into the history of the area, but the trolley museum is a bit more kid-friendly just because, well, there are a lot of trolleys to explore. 

More things to do in Kennebunkport, ME

Drive from Kennebunkport to York Maine

As you head out of Kennebunkport you will want to stop in two spots– Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge and Ogunquit, Maine. 

Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

Just south of Kennebunkport in Wells, ME, you will find the 9,125-acre Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. Carson was a marine biologist, author, editor-in-chief for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and environmental activist, who thanks to her book Silent Spring , is credited with launching today’s environmental movement. 

Ogunquit, Maine

Ogunquit Beach is filled with grassy dunes and a long sandy beach. If you are looking for rocks, head over to Marginal Way for the cliff walk and the Ogunquit lighthouse. 

A big draw to the town, besides the beaches, is the Ogunquit Museum of American art, which features artists who have lived in and were inspired by the unique beauty of Maine. If you have time, book a boat tour with Finestkind Scenic Cruises. They offer lobster boat tours, cocktail cruises and breakfast cruises for the whole family. 

There are plenty of places to stay in Ogunquit if you want to spend the night, or you can head south to York, ME. 

Ogunquit Hotels

• Ogunquit River Inn
• Ogunquit- The Milestone
• The Admiral’s Inn
• Meadowmere Resort
• Aspinquid at Norseman Resort

Read our full guide to Ogunquit Maine

York, Maine

York is pretty much the last town in Maine you will hit along the coast before you cross into New Hampshire and land in Portsmouth. Pump the breaks though, because York has a lot to do. 

There are four main parts to the town of York– York Village, York Harbor, York Beach and Cape Neddick. 

How much time should you spend in York? 

York, ME has enough to fill a couple of days during your coastal Maine road trip. If you want to truly relax, plan for 3-4 days, but 1-2 is plenty if you are trying to cram everything into a one week trip.  

Hotels in York, Maine 

• Stones Throw Hotel: Beach facing hotel with private balconies, free parking and electric vehicle charging stations. 
• Anchorage Inn : 2 indoor and 1 outdoor seasonal pool with a slide, plus ocean view rooms and suites. 
• Sunrise Motel : Across from Long Sands Beach with ocean view rooms, free parking and kitchenettes. More Details .
• Grand View Inn and Cottages : Ocean view soundproof rooms and family rooms with private balconies and a pool onsite.  More Details .
• Franklin Guest House : Charming little guesthouse close to all of the things you want to see in York. More Details . 

What to do in York, ME with Kids

Kids don’t need a lot when it comes to the beach, but if there are animals, amusement park rides, bowling and candy involved, it’s pretty easy to get them off the sand to explore in York. 

York’s Wild Kingdom

Enjoy a ride on the ferris wheel, bumper cars, the merry go round and a number of other amusement park rides. Then head to the zoo where you can see lions, lemurs, a pot belly pig, pygmy goats, prairie dogs and more critters you don’t often get to see in the wild. 

Check out this classic arcade with games your kids will love, but you grew up playing (don’t be afraid to dominate at pinball). There’s also bowling onsite if you want some real family fun. Let the competition begin!

The Goldenrod

Part old-tyme ice cream parlor, part candy shop and part restaurant– you just can’t go wrong when you pop into the Goldenrod with kids. Just be ready for the sugar coma afterwards. 

Mount Agamenticus

Take the kids hiking on Mt. Agamenticus for a birds eye view of town and the beauty of the Maine coast. There are several shorter trails, as well as more difficult longer trails for those looking for a challenge. 

Long Sands Beach

Kids will love the mile of white sand beaches, while parents will love that there are restrooms at the halfway point down the beach. Metered parking is available on the street. 

Those who booked a York hotel close by can simply walk across the street to enjoy the sand and surf. Volleyball and surfing are big draws to this beach, and it can get crowded, but the waters are family-friendly as long as you keep an eye on young swimmers. 

More things to do in York, ME

This po s t is part of a paid partnership with Visit Maine. As always, my opinions are my own. When they aren’t you will be the first to know.

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Keryn Means

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The 5 most beautiful road trips in Maine

Sep 25, 2023 • 7 min read

Road trip in Maine and find your own slice of seclusion © David Lincoln / Getty Images

The road trip is synonymous with American travel culture, and there’s no better place to explore the natural beauty of the United States by car than in the beautiful state of Maine .

The Pine Tree State offers scenic vistas and activities for everyone, from rocky coastlines and sandy beaches to granite mountain peaks and wildlife.

Nestled in the northeast corner of mainland USA, many of the country’s most famed scenic highways originate here. You can easily begin your road trip across Maine from urban  Portland , nearby Boston or even Canada.

Because this largely rural and geographically spread-out state does not offer a robust public transportation system, we recommend a road trip to see all it has to offer. While Subarus and pickup trucks are the unofficial vehicles around here, you don’t need a four-wheel drive to get to most places in Maine unless it’s the middle of the winter and you’re looking for fresh powder to shred in the mountains. 

As Mainers like to joke, “You can’t get here from there,” so be patient and don’t be afraid to get lost on the back roads. You never know when you might come across a moose, the perfect lobster roll or just a natural vista that will take your breath away. 

1. Coastal Route 1 Maine

Best road trip for Maine coastline views Kittery–Calais; 273 miles  

US Route 1 extends down the Eastern Seaboard from Fort Kent, Maine, to Key West , Florida, clocking in at 2390 miles in total. The historic route started as the Atlantic Highway, which was established in 1911 and stretched from Calais, Maine, to Miami . 

Today, Route 1 offers one of Maine’s most scenic drives during the summer and fall months. Starting from Kittery, the two-lane highway follows the coastline up to Calais before swinging inland up to the Canadian border in Fort Kent. Most people take Route 1 from Kittery up to Ellsworth and head to Acadia National Park . 

A road trip through  Coastal Maine  can be an ambitious day trip from Portland, and most prefer to take a leisurely weekend to enjoy the area’s many traditional coastal towns, beaches, seafood joints and family attractions.

Spend a night in Maine’s largest city and foodie hotspot, Portland. Drive north through Freeport and the Midcoast, stopping to purchase some flannel and duck boots at LL Bean and visit the Farnsworth Museum of Art in Rockland. Enjoy lunch by the water in Kennebunkport.

Continue your drive north toward Ellsworth, where you can take a detour to breathtaking Acadia National Park for a couple of days. If you venture beyond Acadia, you’ll discover one of the most beautiful parts of the state: the Bold Coast. A drive through Downeast Maine will bring you through what locals may call “real Maine,” with its small towns and working waterfronts. Stop at Quoddy Head State Park in Lubec and then drive to the small inland town of Calais. 

From here, you can continue your drive up to Fort Kent and cross the border to Canada or head back south.

Detour:  If you have more time, spend another day or two exploring the many islands off the coast of Rockland and get a feel for New England's traditional seafaring communities.

2. Maine's Route 302 

Best road trip for fall foliage Portland–Fryeburg; 53 miles   

Perfect for a day trip, the drive from Portland to Fryeburg on Route 302 is especially beautiful during the fall months when the leaves start changing color. 

Start your day with breakfast in Portland. Grab coffee and donuts at HiFi Donuts and walk along Portland’s working waterfront, one of the few left in the country where you can still see catches of lobster and fish being hauled in throughout the day. Portland’s historic Old Port district is full of charming boutique shops, art galleries and restaurants perfect for those who prefer a sit-down breakfast.

After a few hours in Portland, hop in your car and take Route 302 west. You’ll pass through Windham and the Lake Region area, where you’ll begin to find more pine trees and farmland than people. 

If you’re traveling during the hot summer months, you can stop at Sebago Lake State Park or one of the few public beaches along the roadway for a dip in Maine’s deepest and second-largest lake. 

In Naples, you’ll cross the Causeway over Long Lake. If you’re hungry, grab lunch at Rick’s Cafe  (open from late May to early September) or take a tour of Long Lake aboard the Songo River Queen II , a replica Mississippi River Paddle Wheeler. 

Continue north toward Bridgton. During the winter months, Pleasant Mountain  is open for both day and night skiing, and hiking during the summer months is also rewarding. Less than 45 minutes from Bridgton, you’ll enter the pastoral town of Fryeburg.

Planning tip: A short drive from Fryeburg lies the gateway to New Hampshire’s White Mountains, North Conway, if you want to make a weekend of it.

3. Route 2 in Maine

Best road trip for farmland and mountains Bar Harbor–Gilead; 192 miles 

Route 2 is part of a cross-continental highway from Washington to Maine that crosses the border into Canada. Whether you’re completing the full 3600-mile Great Northern Road Trip or just a scenic day trip from the coast, Route 2 provides plenty of great views as you wind through farmland, small towns and mountains. 

Start in Bar Harbor, from where you can easily spend a few days exploring Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island . From the Atlantic Ocean, travel inland to Maine’s third-largest city, Bangor – the hometown of world-famous writer Stephen King. Grab a selfie at  King’s house  and in front of the  Paul Bunyan statue  before continuing east through the small former mill towns and fields. 

Stop in the college town of Farmington for lunch before continuing your journey through the western mountains of Maine . Newry, Bethel and Gilead are all picturesque New England towns with forested granite peaks in the distance. During the summer and fall months, stretch your legs on the many nearby hiking trails in the White Mountains or hit the slopes at Sunday River during the snowy months. 

4. Schoodic National Scenic Byway

Best road trip for uncrowded coastal views Hancock–Birch Harbor; 315 miles 

Most people don’t realize that Acadia National Park is more than just Mount Desert Island. A small portion of the park is located on Schoodic Peninsula, on the mainland. The remote peninsula offers acres of unspoiled and uncrowded nature. If you want to avoid the crowds on Cadillac Mountain or in the village of Bar Harbor, take the Schoodic National Scenic Byway to a remote part of the national park.

The Scenic Byway runs along Route 1 from Hancock to Gouldsboro, where you’ll take a right-hand turn onto Route 186, proceed along Schoodic Peninsula and then through the small fishing villages of Winter Harbor and Birch Harbor. 

The Schoodic District of Acadia National Park contains 7 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Schoodic Head Trail, which summits the highest peak along the peninsula. The peninsula is also home to countless other hiking and walking trails in the Frenchman Bay Conservancy and Maine Coastal Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

Local tip:  The peninsula and surrounding islands are also an incredible place to explore by kayak or canoe.

5. Maine Island Trail

Best “road” trip ... by boat Kittery–Eastport; 294 miles

The pleasures of road trips in Maine aren’t limited to cars. For an only-in-Maine experience, buy or rent a boat and hit the 375-mile recreational waterway trail that follows the coast of Maine from York County to Washington County.

Founded in 1988, the Maine Island Trail connects more than 200 wild islands with mainland camping sites on both public and private lands. The trail and many of the wild islands are maintained with the help of thousands of volunteers and the Maine Island Trail Association .

In the greater Portland area, many of the islands in Casco Bay can be accessed easily by sea kayak, a perfect weekend getaway. For a longer trip, you’ll want a motorboat or sailboat, as Maine’s open water can be dangerous if you’re not a skilled mariner. Portland Paddle offers guided trips throughout the summer months from Portland.

This article was first published December 2021 and updated September 2023

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Summer Maine Road Trip: An Easy Itinerary for a Unique Week in Maine

By: Author Rob Taylor

Posted on Published: August 13, 2023  - Last updated: March 20, 2024

We love spending time in Maine and really enjoy visiting in summer months. Winter in Maine is fun and beautiful, but such a different vibe, and if you’re not into the cold and snow, may not be for you. So here we have our summer itinerary for spending a week in Maine. This can easily be turned from a week into two weeks, so do what you need to do for your vacation. This Maine road trip includes everything from the iconic coves and lighthouses of the coast to the waterfalls and lakes in the Highlands. A road trip around Maine (7 days is enough) gives a great taste of the state.

Have you always wanted to visit Coastal Maine and eat lobster every day? Or maybe your ideal summer trip to Maine is being away from it all and picking blueberries every day. Whatever your interest, we’ve got a great travel plan for visiting Maine in summer.

If you have any additional questions or want to share your own tips, please feel free to leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to share more and help others plan their travels!

Starting a Maine Road Trip in Summer

Before you take this awesome Maine summer road trip plan and do it exactly, be sure to do your own research to see what works best for your timing and your travel crew. Maine in the summer is usually pretty nice, and with that comes a lot of visitors. It’s called “Vacationland” for a reason… While visiting Maine in summer is nothing like visiting Walt Disney World the week school gets out, there are more people than you might expect. After 7 days of a Maine road trip, you’ll experience everything from crazy crowds to nobody around for miles.

You can fly into either Portland (PWM) or Bangor (BGR) to begin. I think Portland is easier as there are more flights into PWM than BGR, but if you find a great deal into Bangor, take it! You will want to be sure that you fly in and out of the same airport though, as that’ll save you $200+ in rental car costs.

Something to think about before you hit the road up here is how the state is actually laid out. The Highlands are all connected with highways and county roads, and it’s pretty easy to navigate as the relative distance is accurately suggestive of travel time. When you get out to the coast it’s not so simple. Yes, there are highways and roads connecting everything, but nothing is as close as it seems. For example, as the crow flies it’s only about twenty-five miles between Rockland and Boothbay Harbor, but if you wanted to go from one to the other and visit the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse between them, that middle stop adds an hour to your drive despite it being only five miles as the crow flies.

How Many Days for a Maine Road Trip

I always say to use the time you have and you’ll enjoy whatever you can, but doing a 10 day Maine road trip is the most ideal. 7 days for exploring Maine is also plenty, and you could even just get a quick snapshot with 3 days, but the more time the better. There are nearly zero straight roads in Maine and you’ll always be going through another small town, so it takes a long time to go places. As grama Charlotte would say “You can’t get theya from heeera.”

For those doing a Maine road trip from Boston (easy to fly into from anywhere in the USA), add a day or two for the towns south of Portland, like Kennebunkport or Ogunquit. Since you have to drive by, it’s easy to stop. You could also just make a short 3 day Maine road trip from Boston to Portland and have a great time.

Where to Stay for a Maine Road Trip

I wish I could say that one home base for your whole visit to Maine was a good idea, but actually it’s really not. You’ll want to plan multiple stays during your visit simply for the ease of travel and not spending every waking moment driving. There are lots of great cabins and glamping in Main e, so consider those unique stays as you’re planning your Maine road trip.

Here are our picks for where to stay throughout your summer Maine experience:

• Portland or Freeport – lots of cool stuff to see, good food, and lodging options. We love the Harasseeket Inn in Freeport !
• Sunday River area – this is a great spot for hiking and waterfalls. The Snow Cap Inn or Grand Summit Hotel are both beautiful picks for a summer visit to this part of the Highlands.
• Carrabassett Valley or Jackman – this is moose country and cabins are key to a nice few days
• Bangor – you’ll be surprised how big Bangor is, and they actually have quite a few national travel brand hotel options, like Fairfield or Residence Inn
• Bar Harbor – this is Acadia National Park basically; staying at the Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbor is fun because it’s familiar and easy, but there are wonderful small inns and B&Bs all around Mount Desert Island and out by the Schoodic Peninsula.
• MidCoast – Rockland is lovely and we really enjoy the 250 Main Hotel and the Samoset Resort . We spend a lot of time here so this is where we try to be for a few days at least.

Summer Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Okay, here we go. This Maine summer road trip plan is designed to hit up both the Highlands and Coastal Maine. You can swap the order as you approach the route, or you can cut out whole sections if you want. Some people visit Maine in summer and think that they want to just pop from small town to small town, but they don’t realize that the activities to do along the way will be limited. To get the best, fullest experience, this mix of destinations will showcase the best of your Maine summer vacation.

And something to keep in mind when you’re in Maine, whether it’s peak summer season or when things are quiet, the general vibe of Maine business owners is that they don’t really need your money. This means that hours may be weird or not what is posted online or in a shop/restaurant window. You’ll still pay a premium price for a lobster roll or a tour, but it will not be when and where it’s convenient for you. As our oldest likes to say: “Maine – Closed on Tuesdays.” It’s all still wonderful, but just try to be flexible with your specific plans.

Note: if you have extra time (9+ days) you can add adventures up to the West Quoddy Lighthouse and Lubec , or explore western Maine west of Portland. This road trip plan doesn’t include these destinations.

Begin in Portland, Maine

Portland is a quiet city, but a fun one. Here you’ll find lot’s a great food, some cool museums, lighthouses and a great wharf/waterfront area to explore. Portland is open year-round, unlike much of MidCoast and DownEast Maine. This is a great place to begin your Maine summer road trip to kind of get your bearings and get into the vibe of the state.

A great day in Portland includes a visit to Cape Elizabeth to visit the Portland Head Lighthouse, walking the Spring Point Ledge Light path out into Portland’s harbor in Casco Bay. You might as well visit Bug Light too, because it’s just five minutes away. It’s really cool to visit Portland, Maine if you’re into lighthouses like we are. There’s actually a point you can stand when you’re at the Portland Head Lighthouse where you can see six different lighthouses :

• Portland Head Light
• Cape Elizabeth Lighthouse
• Ram Island Light
• Spring Ledge Light
• Bug Light (aka Portland Breakwater Light
• Halfway Rock Lighthouse (need a telephoto to see it)

While you’re in Portland, visit the Portland Museum of Art , the Longfellow House and eat lots of whoopie pies ! Coming soon: Fun Things to do in Portland, Maine with Kids

Tip: south of Portland is Saco, ME. Here you’re find a cute town and a really fun, albeit small, amusement area called Funtown / Splashtown . It’s open Memorial Day to Labor Day if you want to add a visit.

Sunday River and Rangely Lakes Region

Driving out of Portland, take your Maine summer road trip up to the Highlands starting in Sunday River. This is the part of Maine everyone heads to for skiing and winter adventures, but in the summertime it’s beautiful and full of waterfalls and blueberries. Sunday River, Grafton Notch State Park and all that fun stuff is in an area called Newry, Maine. It’s all hills and rivers and fun. During summer you can find plenty of vacation rentals or stay at any of the ski resort lodgings, so there’s a wide range of options for a family.

Hiking is the big thing to do at Sunday River in the summer. Grafton Notch State Park has some really cool trails and even swimming holes. We love Screw Auger Falls for a nice, brisk splash! Also nearby is the Step Falls Preserve which is both a beautiful hike in the woods and a gorgeous waterfall.

Another fun stop for swimming and seeing an iconic Northeast sight is the Sunday River Covered Bridge. A very well preserved covered bridge, it’s one of nine in Maine. Stop for photos or walk along the river and take a dip. It’s a great spot to visit with kids.

Continue your Maine summer road trip up to the Rangely Lakes Region. The town of Rangely is charming and there are lots of lakes to enjoy. Watch for wild blueberries when you’re hiking or even when you just pull off the main road. Another thing to watch for: MOOSE! Yes, this is a moose-heavy area, and if you’re up early or driving the dirt roads at sunset, you may get to see one!

More stops to make:

• Lovejoy Covered Bridge
• Coos Canyon
• Swift River Falls natural pools
• the town of Rumford (and Paul Bunyan!)

Moosehead Lake and the Highlands

The Highlands of Maine are a collection of forests, mountains and small towns. From Eustis near the Canadian border to Kokadjo and Seboomook, you’ll find lots of little spots full of camps Mainers head to for hunting, and then small cabin resorts in the wilderness. Greenville on Moosehead Lake is cute and is rather the hub of the Highlands. This is moose country , and even if you don’t spot one in the wild, everything has a moose on it.

Check out the bakeries and breweries between Embden and Greenville, and be sure to stop in Abbot along the way. Art shops, cute storefronts and, you guessed it, whoopie pies make it a nice break in driving. In Greeneville, walk around town and have a meal or two on the lake. The highlight of Greeneville is the vintage boat on Moosehead Lake, the Katahdin. Take a cruise around the lake or spend the day at Lily Bay State Park just picnicking, swimming and hiking along the lakeshore.

Central Maine Towns to Visit

On your Maine summer road trip from the Highlands to the coast, you’ll have plenty of options for where to stop or stay overnight. I personally really like Waterville, which has a good sized downtown and is nicely set on the Kennebec River. From the Bixby Chocolate Café and Colby College Museum of Art to old Fort Halifax State Historic Site on the Kennebec and Sebasticook Rivers, there’s plenty to do in a day and then you can wake up in this cute town, go for a walk and head onto your next stop.

Augusta is another city to visit in central Maine. This is the state capital and there’s plenty to do here too. You’ve got the arboretum, Old Fort Western, touring the State Building and more. The Colburn House State Historic Site is cool if you’re into Revolutionary War history, as both Aaron Burr and Benedict Arnold stayed here on their travels through Maine (the Massachusetts colony at the time).

Bangor is the last of the bigger towns to plan time in. Don’t get me wrong, there are lots and lots of beautiful small towns and villages to visit, but they are mostly TINY and stops are typically less than an hour. But Bangor is a good one for a full day or a few hours. The town itself has a lot of structure to it, old storefronts, the Maine Discovery Museum and Zillman Art Museum, and it’s set on the Penobscot River, which gives the area just off downtown a fun vibe and cool sights.

Acadia National Park

I think Acadia National Park is absolutely beautiful, but it’s not at the level of epic you get from Olympic National Park or Yellowstone . It is totally worth a visit though, and if you happen to be doing you Maine summer road trip with bikes, then you’ll really enjoy visiting Acadia National Park in summer! A lot of people come to Maine just to cross Acadia NP off their bucket list, so expect a lot of delays and lots of people in Bar Harbor. Check out these great tips for visiting Acadia National Park with ease!

At Acadia NP, the Loop Scenic Drive is a must. There are lots of coves and lookout points to stop at. This is also where the bulk of traffic is, so get there early in the day to see the sights and then plan for hiking and driving up Cadillac Mountain in the afternoon.

Check out our 3 Day Acadia National Park itinerary if you want a longer visit!

One of the best parts of visiting Acadia is spending time in Southwest Harbor and the more quiet parts of Mount Desert Island. This includes visiting the Bass Harbor Lighthouse, which I think is one of the most iconic of all Maine sights, and not just of all the lighthouses. This unique lighthouse is set on a cliffside and can be visited/seen from a few different angles. It’s a great place to watch tall ships sail by, and then end your day with a nice stay in Bar Harbor.

Note: if you are planning LOTS of time in the Northeast, you can actually take the ferry from Bar Harbor over to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. We love Nova Scotia and if you’ve ever considered visiting, you can spend just a day or two doing the Nova Scotia Lighthouse Route … or save that for another trip dedicated to Halifax , the Bay of Fundy and more.

MidCoast Maine Sights to See

Don’t worry, we have an article all about MidCoast Maine and all of the cool towns and coves and lighthouses, but if you want to get a simple taste of the MidCoast during your Maine summer road trip, here are our top picks for the best spots to enjoy the lobster and lighthouse culture of the area. Since our road trip plan heads to MidCoast from Acadia, you’ll have to drive through Belfast to get to your next destination. Belfast has a great town area to explore (and a fun toy store), and this is actually a good spot to hire a fishing charter if you want to do that while you’re in Maine.

Camden and Rockland, Maine are both beautiful and really fun towns to stop in or stay in when you’re doing a Maine summer road trip. We have done a few different cabins in Camden, stayed at the Samoset Resort and LOVED staying at the 250 Main Hotel in Rockland . This is the hub we usually choose for exploring MidCoast Maine since it’s so central and has so many wonderful restaurants and things to do. In Camden, stroll through town, go sailing, go for a hike at Camden Hills State Park or pick blueberries atop Beech Hill Preserve.

In Rockland, pay a visit to the Farnsworth Art Museum (lots of Wyeth paintings!), do the mile walk out to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse (technically Rockport), catch a ferry out to Vinalhaven Island (1.5 hours), do the Maine Lighthouse Museum or visit Owls Head for the lighthouse and transportation museum. There’s tons to do in Rockland!

If you haven’t been out on the water yet during your trip, drive down to Port Clyde to jump on Monhegan Boat Lines ‘ puffin tour. You’ll get to ride on an active lobster boat to check traps and then continue onto Easter Egg Rock to see puffins in the wild! Yes, Maine has puffins and they’re adorable!

I could go on and on about all of the fun things to do in MidCoast Maine, specifically around Camden and Rockland, but that’s a whole other blog post. You’ll love this area and want to spend several days of your Maine summer road trip here.

TIP: If you want to really get into the lobster of it all, Maine Lobsterfest happens in Rockland on the first weekend of August. Yes, it’s crazy busy in Camden and Rockland during Lobsterfest, but it’s really fun and there’s lots of good food and fun events.

Gardens, Puffins and Whale Watching in Boothbay Harbor

I feel like I’m saving the best for last, and that’s okay. For your final day on your Maine summer road trip, head to the Boothbay Peninsula. Here you’ll find the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens and the world famous trolls by artist Thomas Dambo. The gardens themselves are really cool and fun to explore with kids, especially the bee exhibits, but the highlight that really draws people are the enormous trolls. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors in any weather and the sights along the way are just beautiful.

After a morning at the gardens, head into the town of Boothbay Harbor. This is a great end to your Maine road trip, as the town is quaint, full of restaurants and shops, and this is where you get to board a small ship for some of the best whale watching I’ve experienced. I used to live in Alaska and have done lots of whale watching off Vancouver Island and the Olympic Peninsula , and this experience is at the top of my favorites list. Go out with Cap’n Fish’s Cruises to look for whales and puffins (make sure you confirm which tour you’re on) and who knows what you’ll see. We saw a fin whale, several humpbacks and minke whales. And then we also got to see five lighthouses and a bunch of puffins.

This is such a great Maine day! To end your trip, stay the night here or head back to Portland for your departure. Really, this summer road trip around Maine includes so many different experiences, it’s simply unforgettable.

Summer in Maine Favorites

There is so much to do in Maine in summer, but thinking about our top favorite things to do, we were able to narrow it down to these activities. Don’t let our list limit you though, as Maine is a treasure trove of fun, both on the water and on the land.

• do a sailing experience on a tall ship – Portland, Camden, Waldoboro, Bar Harbor…
• visit the Maine Botanical Gardens – Boothbay
• go out on a Lobster boat tour – limited availability but you can find them in Port Clyde, Bar Harbor and Belfast
• pick blueberries – this requires a little hiking usually, but they’re all around the state, with Camden Hills SP, Beech Hill Preserve and the Rangely Lake Region parks all having lots
• waterfall hiking – the Maine Highlands have more than 20 waterfall trails for all skill levels
• do college campus visits – this is a great way to plan a Maine summer road trip with older kids; give them a look into the smaller schools of the Northeast
• visit lobster pounds and lobster shacks – you’ll find these from Ogunquit to Lubec, Maine and this is where you’ll have the freshest lobster in the state

Doing a Maine road trip in summer is such a unique, fun sort of vacation to plan. Yes, you’ll face busy areas, but if you mix it up with not just visiting the quaint towns of coastal Maine, you’ll have an awesome, relaxing trip.

If you have any questions or want to make some suggestions for more stops or tips for doing a Maine summer road trip, please feel free to leave a comment or send us a note . We’re always happy to share more!

How to plan the perfect road trip in coastal Maine

Cory lee takes us on an accessible tour of acadia national park, ogunquit, and beyond..

In our Where To series, we tag along as eight fascinating travel influencers jaunt from coast to coast in search of the best meals, experiences, and more, all inspired by our Travelers’ Choice Awards. Browse all of the itineraries on our Where To hub .

Cory Lee ( @curbfreecorylee ) inspires fellow wheelchair users to break out of their comfort zone with tips on how and where to travel. Here, Lee shares the highlights of his first trip to coastal Maine —from the most accessible trails and wheelchair-friendly beaches to the best spots for freshly caught seafood and blueberry pie.

Day one: Get settled

Getting to the small towns of coastal Maine is part of the adventure. While Portland International Airport is the closest gateway, many travelers opt for the larger and often more budget-friendly Boston Logan International Airport. Rent a car (MobilityWorks is great for wheelchair-accessible van rentals) and enjoy the picturesque three-and-a-half-hour drive to your first destination: Rockland, Maine .

Upon arrival, treat yourself to surf-and-turf fare at the nearby Travelers' Choice Award–winning Franny’s Bistro in Camden. The eclectic menu features everything from shrimp dumplings and cheddar grits to lobster fritters and steak frites. When you’re ready to call it a night, look no further than the Hampton Inn & Suites Rockland , a Travelers' Choice Award winner with spacious rooms, ample parking, and a central location that puts you in a prime position for exploring all the area has to offer.

Day two: Get your fill in Rockland, Rockport, and Camden

Start the day with an oversized cinnamon roll or lobster eggs Benedict at the Travelers' Choice Award–winning Home Kitchen Cafe . Then, spend some time perusing the quaint shops in downtown Camden or, if the weather is nice, drive to the top of Mount Battie for a birds-eye view of the harbor. Farther afield, the Langlais Sculpture Preserve in Cushing, Maine, offers a quarter-mile, ADA-accessible path and a self-guided tour of a dozen sculptures by local artist Bernard Langlais. When it’s time to eat again, the atmosphere at Waterfront can’t be beat. Order a cup of the clam chowder or a “lazy lobster.” The crustacean comes sans shell, courtesy of the kitchen, so all you have to do is sit back, chow down, and watch the boats sail by.

Day three: Hit up Acadia National Park

You’ll want to get an early jump on the day as it’s a two-hour drive from Rockland to Mount Desert Island —pronounced “dessert.” Take advantage of the complimentary continental breakfast at the hotel and then make a beeline for the island’s crown jewel: Acadia National Park .

With miles upon miles of rocky coastline, towering granite mountains, and more than 1,000 species of plants, it’s impossible to experience all of Acadia in a single day, but don’t let that stop you. With some planning, it’s easy to hit up the highlights of the Travelers' Choice award winner. For starters, get outside and enjoy some of the 150-plus miles of hiking trails. The Jesup Path, a boardwalk-meets-gravel trail, winds its way through a boggy, white birch forest and ends at another attraction: the lush Wild Gardens of Acadia . Or travel back in time on one of the old carriage roads. Closed to cars, these routes are a 45-mile playground for pedestrians, bicyclists, horseback riders, and—you guessed it—horse-drawn carriages.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, seek out the Jordan Pond House Restaurant . Whether you decide to lunch on the lawn overlooking Jordan Pond or cozy up to the fireplace inside the rustic dining room, you must order the famous popovers. The restaurant’s attached gift shop also has some of the best souvenirs in the park.

In the afternoon (or if you’re lucky enough to have snagged a reservation at sunset), journey to the top of Cadillac Mountain . The highest point on the eastern seaboard, the panoramic views of the park are truly stunning. End the day with dinner at one of the many charming restaurants in Bar Harbor, located just outside the park limits. The comfort food at the Travelers' Choice Award–winning Thirsty Whale Tavern is quintessential New England.

Day four: Catch a show in Ogunquit

It’s time to head south to the towns of Ogunquit and Kennebunkport . Check out of the hotel, but before you leave, fuel up on one of the truly memorable breakfast sandwiches from Camden Deli .

Time your first stop with a matinee at the historic Ogunquit Playhouse , a Travelers' Choice Award winner. Since 1933, the community theater has been entertaining audiences with everything from Broadway musicals to original productions. The white shiplap building is grand enough to have been included on the National Register of Historic Places but cozy enough that no matter where you sit, you have a great view of the stage.

After the final curtain call, wander around downtown Ogunquit or Ogunquit Beach (beach wheelchairs are available at the visitor center free of charge). When it’s time to check in, the Travelers' Choice Award–winning Boathouse Waterfront checks all the boxes: stylish decor, a rooftop deck, and an on-site restaurant with a raw bar. Splurge on a suite in the main building for a balcony overlooking the harbor and interiors that nod to the local surroundings, like a rocking chair made from upcycled lobster traps.

Day five: Make the most of Ogunquit’s trails and museums

If you arrive at the Cove Cafe and get a table right away, count yourself lucky. Even on weekdays, there’s often a line out the door at this Travelers' Choice Award winner but rest assured, the Belgian blueberry waffles are worth the wait.

Less than a five-minute walk from the restaurant, you’ll find an access point for the Marginal Way Scenic Cliff Stroll . The paved, 1.5-mile path takes you along the coastline, so have your camera ready and be prepared to stop at the many lookout points—the spectacular scenery changes with the tide. For an up-close view of another ecosystem, hit up the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge, where two wheelchair-accessible trails highlight the flora and fauna of Maine’s saltwater marshlands.

Now that you’ve experienced Ogunquit’s natural beauty, you’ll understand why the area has been a draw for artists since the late 1800s. Today, one of the best places to learn about the town’s storied arts scene is the Ogunquit Museum of American Art . Open May through October, the Travelers' Choice Award–winning museum houses prominent works by the likes of Marsden Hartley and Yasua Kunyioshi, and features classes led by local artists and a three-acre sculpture garden overlooking the ocean.

End the day at Mabel’s Lobster Claw with a culinary masterpiece called “The Duchess,” a savory seafood medley cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet.

Day six: See the highlights in Kennebunkport

Kick off your last full day in Maine with a classic breakfast at a spot beloved by locals and tourists alike: Mike’s All Day Breakfast . Then, go for a drive along scenic Ocean Avenue . Travelers' Choice Award–winning points of interest include St. Ann’s Church , a stone sanctuary built in 1892, and Walker’s Point , where an overlook provides a glimpse of former president George H.W. Bush’s “Summer White House.”

Make your way back to town and then journey on to Kennebunkport Beach. When the sun is shining, it’s the best place to while away a few hours. Watch surfers bob in the waves or take in the tidepools.

With tomorrow being a travel day, opt for an early dinner at Arundel Wharf Restaurant , a Travelers' Choice Award winner. The service is superb and the menu is extensive—think everything from sashimi to sandwiches. Lastly, you can’t leave Maine without trying a slice of wild blueberry pie, served a la mode.

Cory’s picks:

One thing you wish you’d known before the trip: I didn’t know how many cool cities coastal Maine has and how close they are to one another. It was wonderful to be able to see so much without spending a ton of time driving.

Best bite of food: I would fly back to Maine again just to eat “The Duchess” at Mabel’s Lobster Claw in Kennebunkport. The dish is a mouthwatering combo of lobster, scallops, and shrimp in a garlic wine sauce, topped with breadcrumbs.

Place you’re already eager to return to: I only spent a couple hours in Bar Harbor , but the downtown area was so vibrant with tons of shops and restaurants. I’m already itching to see more of it.

Touristy thing that’s worth braving the crowds for: The Marginal Way Scenic Cliff Walk in Ogunquit was quite crowded when I visited on a Monday afternoon. Still, I loved rolling on the paved path and was impressed with how wheelchair accessible it was.

Favorite souvenir: Maine’s state berry is the blueberry and I ate my fair share of blueberry pie. I couldn’t pack a whole pie in my suitcase, so opted for some blueberry jam instead. Every time I eat it, I reminisce about my time in Maine.

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Boston Escape: Road Tripping to Quaint Poland, Maine

Are you destined to quaint Poland, Maine? Plan a Boston to Maine road trip for a delightful adventure exploring coastal New England’s main streets and back roads. Escape the city for a leisurely drive up the coast, stopping to discover the picturesque cities and towns that line the Atlantic seaboard.

Or, take the more direct route to the Maine Turnpike, getting off in Gary for a quick visit to the Maine Wildlife Park and a peaceful hike through the Libby Hill Forest Trails. Either route takes you to our little slice of heaven on Tripp Lake in Poland, Maine .

— Take the Leisurely Route —

Scenic driving directions.

•  Hop on I-95 North to the Maine Turnpike
•  Exit I-95 at Exit 3 to Portsmouth, NH (pit stop)
•  Follow US-1 from Portsmouth, NH, to Kittery, ME (pit stop)
• Get back on 1-95 North
•  Take Exit 25 Fletcher St. to Kennebunk, ME (pit stop)
• Jump back on 1-95 North
• Take Exit 4 into Portland, ME (pit stop)
•  Follow ME-26 North and merge onto I-95 North/Maine Turnpike
• Take Exit 63 to Gray, Maine
• Turn Right onto ME-26
• Turn Left onto North Raymond Rd
•  Turn Right onto ME-11
• Turn a slight Left onto Jordan Shore Dr.
• You’ve arrived!

________________

Favorite Pit Stops Along the Way

——portsmouth, nh.

This city exudes a vibe of coastal maritime history and modern charm on the Piscataqua River. Wander the picturesque streets of downtown Portsmouth, filled with lovely boutiques, intimate bistros, and enchanting art galleries.

Stroll along the waterfront and visit historic points of interest. Portsmouth, a small but vibrant city with a lively cultural scene and a long connection to its nautical heritage, captivates all who visit.

Our Recommendations:

• Strawbery Banke Museum : A 10-acre outdoor history museum featuring restored houses, exhibits, and gardens
• Prescott Park: A beautiful waterfront park with gardens and picnic areas, and often hosts outdoor concerts and festivals
• Our Favorite Restaurant: The Black Trumpet Bistro offers a cozy, waterfront dining experience with a seasonal menu that highlights local ingredients

Additional Places to Eat:

• River House
• Caffe Kilim
• Earth Eagle Brewing

Additional Things to Do:

• Self-Guided Haunted Walking Audio Tour
• The Art and Science of Tea Blending
• Water Country
• Monkey Mind Escape Rooms
• Seacoast Science Center

——Kittery, ME

Known as an outlet shopping mecca, Kittery maintains an aura of coastal charm primarily in its downtown area, Kittery Foreside. A recent transformation has revealed a colorful collection of trendy boutiques, craft coffee shops, and chef-owned and operated restaurants.

Kittery is the oldest incorporated city in Maine and home to the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, the nation’s longest-serving Navy yard. It blends its maritime history with the upbeat vibe of a thriving coastal village.

• Kittery Trading Post : A must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of gear and clothing
• Kittery Outlets : Great for shopping with a variety of brand-name outlets
•  Favorite Coffee Shop: Lil’s Café is a popular spot for delicious pastries and coffee
• Roberts Maine Grill
• Tulsi Indian Restaurant
• Anneke Jans
• When Pigs Fly
• Beach Pea Baking
• Anju Noodle Bar
• Fort McClary
• Fort Foster Park
• Rachel Carson Wildlife Refuge

——Kennebunk and Kennebunkport, ME

Two of Maine’s favorite coastal destinations, Kennebunk and neighboring Kennebunkport, owe much of their fame to former president Bush, a noteworthy summer resident. A drive along Ocean Avenue takes you right by the entrance to the gorgeous waterfront estate.

Kennebunk attracts visitors from all over with its charming shops and elegant eateries. When downtown gets busy, wander north along the shore to Cape Porpoise and Goose Rocks Beach for peace and quiet.

• Kennebunk Beaches : Beautiful, sandy beaches perfect for a relaxing stroll
• The Brick Store Museum : A local history museum with interesting exhibits
• The 4-course dining experience we had was unforgettable. We had venison and duck and they were mouth-watering delicious! Dessert was simple, yet beautifully displayed doughnuts. Amazing! Of course, this place has a little sentimental value as well because we had just found out that Nicole was pregnant with Aiden, our little “wolf cub.”
• Boulangerie
• The White Barn Inn
• Hb Provisions
• Lobster Roll Trail of the Kennebunk
• The Boathouse
• Beaches: Colony, Parsons, and Mothers
• Museum in the Streets
• Landmark Gallery
• Northlight Gallery
• Chris Becker Photo Gallery
• Sue Roux Designs
• Dock Square Emporium
• Gooch’s Beach
• Ganny’s Garden

——Portland, ME

The city of Portland blends a metro hub with the charming cobbled streets of the Old Port district. Spend the day exploring the working seaport area, take a ferry to one of Casco Bay’s offshore islands, or take a self-guided walking tour through this genuinely stylish and sophisticated metropolis.

Lighthouses and lobsters form the framework of Portland’s most anticipated treasures. But with a heady mixture of art and adventure, a visit to Portland satisfies all the senses.

• Old Port: A historic area with cobblestone streets, boutiques, and restaurants
• Portland Head Light : An iconic lighthouse with stunning views
• This restaurant speaks my food love language. The service was incredible, and I could eat their Wood-Grilled Hangar Steak every day. They also partner with some of our own farmer/growing partners at Wolf Cove Inn! Nicole and I ate here for my birthday last year with my mom and stepdad, just a few weeks after Aiden was born.
• Portland Lobster Company
• Butcher Burger
• Via Vecchia
• Henry’s Public House
• Saltwater Grille
• Paper Tiger
• Harbor Bistro and Terrace
• Gross Confection Bar
• The Grill Room
• North 43 Bistro
• Uncommon Paws
• Toad & Co
• Portland Trading Co
• Pinecone & Chickadee

— The Quick Route —

Fastest driving directions.

• Hop on I-95 north to the Maine Turnpike
• Take Exit 63 towards Gray, Maine (pit stop)
• Turn Left onto N Raymond Rd
• Turn Right onto ME-11

This quintessential New England town is between Portland and Freeport in southern Maine. Known for its abundance of recreational activity, the Maine Wildlife Park is here. The park protects injured or orphaned wildlife.

Libby Hill Forest, another Gray, ME landmark, offers miles of groomed hiking and cross-country skiing trails. Blessed with lakes, a great golf course, and quaint antique shops, Gray makes a great stop en route to Wolf Cove Inn.

• Maine Wildlife Park is a great place to see Maine’s wildlife up close. It will reopen in spring 2024. See a Moose for yourself!
• Libby Hill Forest Trails : Perfect for a peaceful hike.

Where to Eat Along the Way

Every great road trip includes an opportunity to sample the region’s culinary delights. Lobster, of course, tops the list of treats found in Maine. Mastering the art of deconstructing a whole lobster is not for the faint of heart. It’s a science carefully studied by all lobster lovers.

However, many dining establishments offer dozens of ways to appreciate this delicacy. So, to find the best places to eat lobster in Maine , let us introduce you to a few of our favorites.

In addition to lobster and the finest fresh seafood, Maine offers a wealth of great restaurants. Several excellent restaurants stand out in and around Poland. But for our road trip, let’s break it down town by town.

• In Portsmouth: Row 34
• In Kittery: Roberts Maine Grill
• In Kennebunks: H B Provisions
• In Portland: Butcher Burger Old Port
• In Gray: Manee Thai (Or take a quick detour just 10 minutes off Route 95, Trudy Bird’s is a Scandinavian favorite.)

What to Do Along the Way

Each of our favorite pit stops on a road trip to quaint Poland, Maine, offers fun, funky, and entertaining activities. See our linked lists above! However, once you reach Wolf Cove Inn, we recommend many great ways to explore the area . But each of these road trip pit stops deserves a bit of time to get to know better.

The Ultimate Boston Escape

So, the next time you need an escape, plan a Boston to Maine road trip. The sights, sounds, and smells along the way will lead you to tranquil luxury at Wolf Cove Inn in Poland, Maine.

We welcome you to our charming and relaxing lakeside retreat, an oasis in the heart of the lakes district.

Published April 2024

Photo Credit: © Svanhorn via canva.com © Iconsolid via canva.com © @mungkhoodstudios-images via canva.com © Elchinarts via canva.com © DenisTangneyJr via canva.com © Ailime via canva.com

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Unforgettable Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

I f you’re here, that means you’re probably planning an epic New England road trip along the coast, and man, I’m SO excited for you! Hi, my name is Sam, and I’ve been exploring this corner of the world for over 10 years now. I’ve taken countless road trips along the coast, and I’ve finally perfected my unforgettable Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine itinerary for those looking to explore the  New England coast .

To date, this is my favorite road trip I’ve done, and I can’t wait for you to experience it for yourself. To help you plan the perfect adventure, I’m going to share all my expertise on this area with you, offer my best tips for planning your trip, and give you my ultimate itinerary that was years in the making.

While following along, I encourage you to tailor this itinerary to your own preferences depending on how much time you have for your trip, but I do make suggestions on how long it takes to make the drive, and see all the best places on the way.

Are you ready to start planning together? Let’s go!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

Road Tripping From Boston To Bar Harbor – The Basics

Before we jump into the itinerary, let’s get started with some questions you may have …

How Long Is The Drive From Boston To Bar Harbor?

If you don’t make any stops at all, and take the most direct route, the drive takes between 4 hours and 40 minutes to 5 hours, and spans about 280 miles. It could be longer depending on traffic getting out of Boston. If you happen to leave Boston during rush hour, definitely expect it to take a bit longer.

However, if taking a road trip, you could really make this drive as long as you wanted because there are so many amazing things to see along the way, and some fun detours to take. In just a sec, I’ll give you my suggestions on how long you need to make this trip and see as much of the coast as you can 😉

The auto road to the Cadillac Mountain Summit in Acadia National Park.

Is The Drive Scenic?

I think so, yes! But it kind of depends on your expectations.

While many parts of the actual drive are on highways that are kind of boring, there are  so  many great places to stop along the way that can make the drive very scenic.  Especially  if you take some of my suggested detours and scenic byways! But is every second of the drive stunning? Well, no. So it’s good to set expectations. It’s really more about the stops you make during the trip than the actual drive itself.

There are some portions of the actual drive that are very beautiful, though.

How Many Days Do You Need To Drive From Boston To Bar Harbor?

Since there are just tons of incredible things to see, I’m recommending one week, or 7-8 days, as I know that this is how much most people have to make this drive. If you have longer than a week, then I say it’s worth it to enjoy going at a slower pace. But you can definitely enjoy the top things to see in a week. This will also include two days in  Acadia National Park!  For my itinerary, I’m mapping out 8 incredible days for you, and you can adjust it to fit your schedule 😊

Best Time Of Year To Drive Boston To Bar Harbor

Generally,  June-September  is the best time to drive from Boston to Bar Harbor, as this is when you can expect the  best weather, and longest days .  July and August is considered peak season  along the New England coastline, so this is also when you can anticipate the most crowds and highest hotel prices. But gosh, it’s so worth it!

However, I’ve done this road trip in all seasons – yep, in spring, summer, fall, and even winter! As a second suggestion, I love  May to avoid some of the crowds  and still enjoy mild weather, and also  October to chase all the stunning fall foliage .

I’m going to give you some suggestions later in the post to turn this drive into a fall foliage adventure, so be sure to check that out if you’re planning your trip in the fall season 🍁😉

It’s also good to know that some places along the New England coast are seasonal, especially seafood shacks, boat tours, and ice cream places. If they’re seasonal businesses, it’s likely they won’t open until late May or June and begin to close down around Labor Day or only stay open possibly mid-October. But you’ll always be able to find places that are open year-round, too.

How Many Days Should You Spend In Acadia National Park?

Speaking of Acadia, that’s probably the reason you’re making this drive, right? This park is undoubtedly the top attraction in New England, and rightfully so. I always recommend a minimum of two days to explore, allowing 1 full day in the park, and then at least a half day to see Bar Harbor, which is such a charming town along the coast.

If you have more than a week for this trip, you could definitely add an extra day to Bar Harbor so you have two full days to explore the park.

Is There A Ferry From Boston To Bar Harbor?

No, there is no ferry that goes between Boston and Bar Harbor. The best way to make the trip is to drive.

The only ferry to Bar Harbor is the one from Nova Scotia, which is the CAT Ferry.

Is It Worth Going All The Way To Bar Harbor?

Oh yes! I often get asked this because Bar Harbor is pretty far up the Maine coast, and it’s one of the top attractions most out of the way in New England. But yes, it’s absolutely worth the drive. Because there are so many great things to see along the way, and since Acadia offers some of the best and most iconic coastline views in the Northeast, it’s very much worth the effort.

Overview: Best Stops To Make When Driving Boston To Bar Harbor

These are the top places I recommend stopping in that I think are very much worth your time. Some of them require a bit of a detour, but depending on your preferences, you’ll probably be happy you went out of your way!

→  Massachusetts North Shore : This includes Marblehead, Salem, Gloucester, Rockport, Ipswich, and Newburyport. I suggest you drive the Essex Scenic Coastal Byway on your way to or from Bar Harbor to see some of these towns, depending on which appeals to you the most. I have a slight preference for Salem, Marblehead, and Rockport, which are all small and easy to do in a couple of hours each. I’ll go more into this later in the post 😉

→  Portsmouth, New Hampshire : Pretty much just off I-95 and not out of the way at all, Portsmouth is a charming coastal city that feels more like a quaint town. Great historic New England scenery and shopping! I recommend this stop if you’re looking for more of a town vibe vs. coastline, as the coastal views here aren’t as impressive as the rest of the places on this list.

→  Southern Maine Coast : This includes places like York & Cape Neddick, Kennebunkport, and Ogunquit. I usually suggest stopping at Nubble Lighthouse in York, spending a couple of hours each in Kennebunkport and Ogunquit, and even staying the night in one of these two towns.

→  Portland, Maine : The state’s largest city is filled with lots of maritime charm, amazing dining, lighthouses, and history. If you like cities, this may be worth staying a night, but you can also see the highlights in a few hours if you’re not a city person.

→  Freeport, Maine : Home to the flagship L.L. Bean store! It’s not worth it for everyone to stop, but gosh, it’s a pretty cool place to see if you’re looking to pick-up some New England clothing and accessories.

→  Maine’s Midcoast : Between Freeport and Belfast, just before getting to Bar Harbor, there are lots of great towns along the coast to explore in this region, including Harpswell, Boothbay Harbor, Wiscasset, Rockland, and Camden. I have so many suggestions for hidden gems and places to visit along this portion of the drive, which I’ll go more into during the itinerary portion of the post!

The PERFECT Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Overview of this itinerary:.

Since most people reading this will need to start and end their trip in Boston to catch a flight, that’s how I’m formatting the itinerary. You’ll be making most stops on the way to Bar Harbor, but also saving a few for the drive back so you have something to look forward to 😉

Day 1 : Explore Boston.

Day 2 : Get an early start and drive to either Kennebunkport or Ogunquit. Spend 1 night.

Day 3 : Drive to Portland to explore for a few hours, and then make your way to Camden with a few optional detours for lighthouses and great coastal scenery! End in Camden to spend the night.

Day 4 : Spend the morning in Camden, and then drive to Bar Harbor. Enjoy downtown Bar Harbor and grab dinner. Spend two nights here.

Day 5 : Explore Acadia National Park during the day, and more of Bar Harbor at night.

Day 6 : Drive to Boothbay Harbor to spend 1 night. Take a boat tour.

Day 7 : Drive to Portsmouth and spend a few hours enjoying the shops, and drive the Essex Scenic Byway along the Massachusetts North Shore to make your way toward Boston. Stay the night in this area.

Day 8 : Arrive back in Boston to head home.

Day 1: Explore Boston

Boston is the perfect starting point for most New England itineraries, but it’s also one of the top places to explore in the region, so you should definitely plan at least a full day in the city!

Rooted in history, packed with New England charm, and filled with exciting dining and cool things to do, you can actually cover a lot of ground in just a day in Boston, including the top highlights.

Here are some of the top things I suggest first-timers do :

→ Take a food tour to get a taste of what this region is all about. I have a detailed guide on all the  best Boston food tours  to help you pick the best one! But seafood and Italian cuisine are especially great here.

→  Visit the most charming neighborhoods , which are  Beacon Hill  and the  North End . The North End is also where you’ll find the best Italian restaurants.

→ Stroll through the  Public Gardens  and  Boston Common . The Boston Public Garden was the very first in the U.S., and it’s so beautiful and photogenic 😍 Boston Common isn’t as scenic as the Public Garden, but in the fall during foliage season, it’s on fire with color. Plus, they’re both really close to one another.

→ If you’re looking to do some  shopping , head to  Newbury Street  and  Copley Place .

→ Visit the  New England Aquarium .

→ Explore parts (or all!) of the  Freedom Trail , which is a walking tour that takes you to historically significant places around Boston. You can also take  this awesome Freedom Trail tour .

→ Grab lunch or coffee at the beautiful and Instagram-worthy  Tatte Bakery , which has locations around the city (you’ll see why I recommend it when you walk in 😉).

→ End your day with a nice dinner out. I love  Neptune Oyster , but they don’t take reservations, and it can be a long wait time. If that’s not worth it for you, I also love the  Union Oyster House  for a traditional New England dining experience. But there are so many fantastic places in Boston to choose from.

How To Get Around Boston :

Boston is very walkable, and most of the tourist attractions, which are truly the top things to see in the city, are within walking distance to one another (less than a mile) in the downtown area. If you’re exploring for a day, you likely won’t need to use public transit, but may want to get an Uber or Lyft, which are widely available, just to save time (or if you’re tired!).

Where To Stay In Boston :

All of these suggestions are in great locations, and within walking distance to most everything!

→  Boston Harbor Hotel

→  Revere Hotel Boston Common

→  The Godfrey

Day 2: Drive To Southern Maine

First thing’s first, you’ll want to  pick-up your rental car in Boston  early in the morning. Then, head out to start your drive to southern Maine! During this part of the trip, you’ll pass through Portsmouth, New Hampshire, but don’t worry, we’re going to stop there on the way back 😉 To get to southern Maine, you’ll hop on I-95.

So, Ogunquit or Kennebunkport ?  Well, you can do both if you want! Ogunquit is about 25 minutes south of Kennebunkport, and the biggest difference, as mentioned, is that Ogunquit is more of a beach town, whereas Kennebunkport is more of a coastal town. That said, Kennebunkport also has beaches, and Ogunquit is also just as charming – I honestly love both.

Since you’ll pass by Ogunquit on your way to Kennebunkport, you can stop by for a few hours and see the beach, and the cute little town, and then end in Kennebunkport. You’ll want to decide which town to spend the night in – both have plenty of hotels and dining options.

On your way to Ogunquit and Kennebunkport, I also recommend you stop in York , which is just south of Ogunquit.

Notable stops to make in York if you have time :

• Nubble Lighthouse on Cape Neddick  – the lighthouse itself is not accessible, as it’s on its own little island, but the viewpoint is really great and worth a stop! It only takes a few minutes.
• Stonewall Kitchen Flagship Store & Café  – This New England brand started in Maine, and is now sold in specialty stores all over the country, but the flagship store has everything, and is really fun! The café is also very good, and a lot of people come here for lunch.
• Downtown York  – Waterfront scenery, and some cute shops.
• The York Cliff Walk  – A pedestrian path along the coast with beautiful views.

*If you’re short on time , I would just do Nubble Lighthouse and maybe Stonewall Kitchen, but if you have time, I do recommend the other two stops.

Marginal Way in Ogunquit, Maine.

Best Things To See In Ogunquit In A Day :

→  The charming downtown  is filled with shops and eateries.

→  Ogunquit Beach , which is one of the best beaches in Maine!

→  Marginal Way , which is a pedestrian walking path along the coastline that connects downtown Ogunquit with the cute Perkins Cove Harbor.  This is my personal favorite thing to do in Ogunquit.  The trail is easily accessible from downtown, and is just over 1 mile long each way.

→  Perkins Cove  – Once you arrive there after walking Marginal Way, there are some really cute shops to explore, and a lovely bridge that makes for fun photos.

Ogunquit Beach Lobster House Restaurant.

Where To Eat In Ogunquit :

• Ogunquit Beach Lobster House
• Footbridge Lobster in Perkins Cove for a lobster roll!
• BeachFire Bar & Grille

Psst!  I have an entire guide on  things to do in Ogunquit , if you’re looking for more ideas!

Kennebunkport, Maine.

Best Things To See In Kennebunkport In A Day :

→  The adorable downtown , which is mainly Dock Square. You’ll find colorful storefronts and great restaurants here.

→  Drive to Cape Porpoise , where you’ll find beautiful coastal New England scenery, and the cute  Farm + Table shop .

→ Enjoy the views of the cove from  Kennebunkport Bridge  (right at Dock Square).

→ Take a coastal walk on  Parsons Way .

→ If you have time, head out on a  lobster tour with Rugosa .

Where To Eat In Kennebunkport :

• Allison’s Restaurant for a great casual meal
• Cape Porpoise Lobster Co. for a lobster roll!
• Old Vines Wine Bar

Day 3: Drive To Portland & Make Your Way To Camden

Portland Head Lighthouse.

This day ends in the beautiful coastal town of Camden, but you’ll be making some fun stops along the way! You can make this day easy by just driving to Portland, and then driving straight to Camden, or you can make it longer and more adventurous by making as many stops you as you feel like. Take a look at all my suggestions, and plan according to your preferences 😊

Option to add a night in Portland : The reason I have you scheduled to only stop in Portland for the day is because it’s  such  a short drive from Kennebunkport and Ogunquit, and personally, I think the scenery around the Camden area is more quintessential Maine. However, if you have extra time, you can definitely stay the night in Portland, and continue on to Camden the next day!

Things To Do In Portland In A Few Hours:

→  Take a food tour!  Portland is a huge foodie destination, and this is a great way to taste your way through the city.  The Old Port Seafood Lovers Tour , and  Old Port Culinary Walking Tour  are both great options.

→  Visit the lighthouses.  If you only have time for one, definitely make it  Portland Head Lighthouse . This is probably the most iconic lighthouse in New England, and it’s absolutely beautiful. Nearby are also  Spring Point Ledge Light , and  Bug Light , which are smaller, but still fun to visit. These are all in South Portland, so you’ll want to see them first before getting to downtown Portland.

Old Port in Portland.

→  Stroll around Old Port . I suggest parking somewhere around Commercial Street, and then walking around from there. This is the most unique and charming part of the city along the waterfront. Exchange Street and the streets nearby are nice shopping areas, too.

Optional Stops That Are Worth Your Time On The Way To Camden :

Some of these will definitely add time to your trip, so map them out carefully based on your plans to ensure you have enough time in your day.

Marshall Point Lighthouse.

→  Freeport  to shop at the L.L. Bean Flagship Campus.

→  Wiscasset  – a charming little town with a famous seafood stand called Reds Eats. Also known as being the prettiest village in Maine. You’ll drive right through it on your way to Camden.

→  Pemaquid Lighthouse  – a beautiful lighthouse surrounded by dramatic coastline and parks. There is a small fee to enter the grounds, and it’s cash only.

→  Moody’s Diner in Waldsboro  is right on your way on the righthand side, making it  a little too easy  to swing in for one of their famous whoopie pies! It even made my list of the  best whoopie pies in Maine .

→  Marshall Point Lighthouse  in Port Clyde. This famous lighthouse was featured in the movie  Forrest Gump , and it’s such a beautiful area to visit. This is the lighthouse in my homepage photo!

→  Owls Head  is a small town that’s not too far of a detour, and is home to Owls Head Lighthouse, and some beautiful coastal scenery. This is one of my top, most favorite lighthouses in New England.

→  Rockland  is a charming little coastal town with a great Main Street for shopping. Also home to Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse.

Note s:  You’ll pass by Boothbay Harbor on this portion of the drive, but don’t worry! You’ll be stopping there for a night on the way back  😉  You can also make some of these stops on Day 6 of this itinerary when you drive from Bar Harbor to Boothbay Harbor .

You’ll want to arrive in Camden around dinnertime, so you can get settled into your hotel, and then explore the town a bit before sunset.

Camden, Maine.

Best Things To Do In Camden:

→  Head out on a sunset windjammer tour!

→  Walk around the harbor  to enjoy the idyllic waterfront scenery. Also walk over to the Bay Road Overlook (comes up in Google Maps) for the perfect view of the harbor backdropped by the mountains.

→  Grab dinner at a fabulous restaurant . Some of my favorites are Natalie’s, The Waterfront (yep, that’s the name 😊), and Franny’s Bistro.

→  Get some ice cream for dessert  at River Ducks or Camden Cone.

→  Drive the auto road  in  Camden Hills State Park  to the top of Mt. Battie and enjoy the bird’s-eye views of the harbor. This road is only open seasonally, but usually only closed in the winter.

→  Shop the lovely boutiques  on Main Street and Bay View.

Day 4: Spend The Morning In Camden & Then Drive To Bar Harbor

Refer to the section above for ideas on things to do in Camden the next day. If you weren’t able to take a sailing tour the night before, I do highly suggest booking one for the next day before you leave – this is one of the best places in Maine for a sailing tour!

⛵︎ Here is the Camden sailing tour I recommend:

Windjammer Classic Day Sail

Then, make the drive directly to Bar Harbor. On the way, you’ll cross the  Penobscot Narrows Bridge , which is one of only four bridge observatories in the entire world! If you have time, it’s worth a stop to enjoy the views from the observatory.  Click here for information and fees for exploring the bridge . But it is completely free to drive over if you’re just passing by.

Things To Do Your First Night In Bar Harbor:

→  Walk around the adorable town .

→  Enjoy sunset from Shore Path right in town , with is a coastal walkway.

→  Grab dinner out . I love Geddy’s, Side Street Café, and the Happy Clam Shack for lobster rolls if you’re up for a short drive outside of town.

→ If you have the time, you could also drive up Cadillac Mountain for sunset. While it’s famous for sunrise, I also love sunset on a clear night and it’s usually less crowded.  Note that this requires advanced planning and reservations late May – October.

Sunset on top of Cadillac Mountain.

Day 5: Explore Acadia National Park

Today’s THE day – Acadia National Park! Known as the “Crown Jewel” of New England, the park spans over 70 acres on Mount Desert Island, and offers some of the most iconic and famous scenery in the region.

Best Things To Do In One Day In Acadia :

→  Start with sunrise at the top of Cadillac Mountain . You can also save this for the following morning.Depending on the time of year, you may have to wake up very early for this, so it’s definitely not for everyone. But if it works with your schedule, I do think it’s worth it. It’s one of the most popular activities in the park for a reason!

Note :  Reservations are required late May – October to drive the auto road to the Cadillac Mountain summit . They release 30% of the available reservations 90 days in advance, and 70% of them two days in advance. I recommend setting yourself a reminder to check the weather two days in advance, and if it’s forecasted to be a clear day, making the reservation if this interests you. That way, it’s worth it! If it’s forecasted to be cloudy and foggy, the views won’t be a great.  Click here for reservation info .

→  Drive Park Loop Road , which is one of the most scenic roads in the park that offers so much for little effort. Along this road, you can make stops at Sand Beach, walk the Ocean Path, visit Thunder Hole, and see the Otter Cliffs. Of all these, I recommend parking at Sand Beach and walking Ocean Path to Otter Cliffs and back. It’s flat and easy, and passes by the best views in the park!

→  Lunch at Jordan Pond House . Famous for their popovers and incredible views overlooking Jordan Pond, this is such a fun thing to do in the park. If the weather is forecasted to be nice, I recommend making reservations for outside if you can. They also have a take out café if you want a quicker experience.

This overlook of Monument Beach is along the Ocean Path trail in Acadia.

→  Take a hike, of course!  Some easier to moderate hikes in the park that I love are Great Head, Bubble Rock, and Gorham. If you’re looking for an adventurous hike that’s more challenging, Beehive is the most popular in the park. Great Head is especially nice because you start the trail at Sand Beach, and it offers spectacular views of the coastline. And then you can just leave you car in the parking lot and walk Ocean Path.

→  Head to Bass Harbor Lighthouse for sunset . It’s about 30 minutes from Bar Harbor, but on a nice night, sunset here is really beautiful. You’ll need to climb out onto the coastal rocks to see the lighthouse, and parking fills up fast. But if you come prepared with sturdy footwear and arrive early enough, it’s wonderful!

→ If you don’t feel like driving to Bass Harbor Light, I would head back to Bar Harbor to  relax and enjoy your last night in town  with a dinner out.

→ You can also try to make a reservation for  sunset on top of Cadillac Mountain  in the park if you weren’t able to go for sunrise!

The views at the top of Cadillac Mountain.

Psst!  Do you have longer to explore the park? Want more information on everything mentioned above? You may want to check out my  Perfect Acadia National Park Itinerary .

Day 6: Drive To Boothbay Harbor

You have the option to start your day with a sunrise on Cadillac Mountain if you weren’t able to plan it the day prior! If you do, I suggest having breakfast at  Jeannie’s Great Maine Breakfast  in Bar Harbor afterward before heading out. They usually open early in-season for everyone getting up to see the sunrise ☀️

The drive to Boothbay Harbor is about 2 hours and 45 minutes without stops, and you also have the option to take the more scenic route and visit some of the suggested stops I detailed in the Day 3 portion of this itinerary. I would go back and reference those if you want to break up the drive.

Why do I recommend the night in Boothbay Harbor?  Well, I just love this little coastal town because of its charm, beautiful scenery, slower pace, and all the amazing boat tour options. From Boothbay Harbor, you can take a boat tour out to a puffin colony, head out on a Schooner, or take a lobster trap haul and lighthouse scenic tour. After exploring Acadia the day prior, it’s nice to stop in a town that forces you to slow down a bit, too.

Boothbay Harbor.

Best Things To Do In Boothbay Harbor:

→  Take a boat tour!  In addition to Camden, this is another one of the best places in Maine for some kind of tour out on the water just because of how many different kinds are offered. Plus, the scenery around this area is absolutely beautiful.

The Lobster Haul, Lighthouses & Seals tour in Boothbay Harbor.

These are the top tours I recommend in Boothbay Harbor:

✓  Schooner Day Sail

✓  Schooner Sunset Sail

✓  Lobster Haul, Lighthouses & Seals Tour

→  Cabbage Island Clambakes!  This is SUCH a cool, unique, and authentic Maine experience for dinner. You’ll take a boat from downtown, and be brought to the family’s private island for a traditional New England style clam bake dinner, which includes their famous blueberry cake and gorgeous waterfront scenery.  Advanced reservations required.

→  Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens . Located just outside of the downtown area, this is such a beautiful place to explore. Don’t forget to snap your photo with the giant wood troll sculptures!

→  Explore the cute and colorful downtown area .

→  Walk the footbridge , which connects both sides of the harbor.

→  Grab ice cream from Downeast Ice Cream , which is one of my favorites in New England.

Downtown Boothbay Harbor.

Where To Eat In Boothbay Harbor :

• Boathouse Bistro
• Boothbay Lobster Wharf
• Shannon’s Unshelled
• Robinson’s Wharf in the neighboring town of Southport is also worth it!

Psst!  I have a post all about  things to do in Boothbay Harbor , if you want some more ideas 😉

Day 7: Drive To Portsmouth & The Essex Coastal Scenic Byway

Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Making your way back to Boston, there are so many wonderful places you can stop on the way! In fact, it’ll be hard to choose because there’s a lot you can pack in on this portion of the drive, especially along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway in Massachusetts.

Customize this day how you’d like, but if you’re feeling ambitious and you have enough daylight hours in your day, you can see Portsmouth,  and  all the best towns in the along the Scenic Byway.

Things To Do In Portsmouth In A Few Hours :

Portsmouth is very walkable and compact, so you can see the highlights, even with just an hour or two!

→  Market Square , which is the main shopping area downtown. You’ll find lots of great boutiques and eateries in this section of town.

→  Walk down a cute alleyway to Elephantine Bakery  for a coffee and a sweet treat.

→  Walk over to Prescott Park  for lovely waterfront views and a garden.

→  Visit the   Strawbery Banke Museum  to see history come to life (open seasonally). If you don’t go to the museum, definitely walk around this area because you’ll see lots of historic houses nearby.

Once you’re done in Portsmouth, take a 30 minute drive to Newburyport  and explore there for a bit. This is where I recommend starting the Coastal Byway drive. Follow the Byway through Ipswich, Rockport, Glouster, Manchester By The Sea, and Salem (which is just outside of Boston).

These are the best stops to make along the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway:

→  Newburyport : One of my favorite places to visit in New England, it’s home to amazing shops and such a charming downtown area that sits on the waterfront. Allow about an hour to walk around, grab lattes and whoopie pies from Chococoa Café, and explore the shops.

Psst!  I have an entire guide on  things to do in Newburyport, MA & Plum Island  if you need more info!

Newburyport, Massachusetts.

→  Crane Estate & Crane Beach in Ipswich . This historic estate is so stunningly beautiful, and the beach nearby is the best on the North Shore. Each requires separate admission fees, and you’ll want to budget your time wisely.

Crane Beach in Ipswich.

→  Rockport : One of my all-time favorite coastal towns in New England, Rockport is probably the one place I recommend you don’t miss on the drive. It’s very small, but offers an authentic New England fishing village atmosphere with colorful storefronts, lovely art galleries, great dining, and the most painted building in the country – Motif 1 (which was also featured in the movie  The Proposal ).

Psst!  I have an entire guide on  things to do in Rockport, MA  if you need more ideas!

Rockport, MA.

→  Gloucester is the best place to stop if you have your heart set on a whale watch tour  (but you can also take one that departs from Newburyport if that’s more convenient). Whale watch tours in this region are world-class, and head out to the famous Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is known for its active marine wildlife.

🐋  Click here to check rates & availability for a whale watch tour from Gloucester

Note : While I do love to visit Gloucester, I think with this amount of time, it’s best to focus your itinerary on the other towns along the drive that I’ve recommended, as I think their scenery is more idyllic than Gloucester. Gloucester is also a city, and is bigger and more spread out, so harder to see on limited time. I do recommend it for a whale watch tour, though! If you take the whale watch tour, just know that it will take at least 3 hours, and likely a bit longer.

→  Manchester-By-The-Sea  is a beautiful coastal town that can easily be seen in about an hour or so. very picturesque scenery, and it’s home to a lovely beach called Singing Sands.

→  Salem . I’m sure you know it as a top Halloween destination, but it’s honestly great year-round. Filled with historic New England charm, waterfront areas, and some fun places to eat, it’s also very walkable!

Psst!  I have an entire guide on taking a  Salem, MA day trip  if you want more information for your visit!

Marblehead, Massachusetts.

→  Marblehead  is such a beautiful town along the North Shore just south of Salem that often gets overlooked, but I absolutely love it here. Also filled with historic charm and lovely waterfront scenery, it’s got a quaint Main Street with some cute shops, a beautiful waterfront park, and some nice places to eat.

Psst!  I have an entire guide on  things to do in Marblehead, MA  if you’re looking for more ideas 😉

More Optional Stops : If you’re looking to explore more of Maine’s coast, there are a few more stops you can make on your way from Boothbay Harbor to Boston. I know, I know – I’m probably tempting you to expand your trip even further, but I’m okay with that 😂

→  Georgetown Island to visit Five Island Lobster Company , which is one of the best lobster rolls in Maine you can get. They’re only open seasonally, and the scenery around there it is very quintessential Maine.

Doubling Point Lighthouse.

Squirrel Point Lighthouse.

→  The Arrowsic Lighthouses . There are two in this area that I really love: Doubling Point and Squirrel Point. Doubling Point requires a drive down a very bumpy dirt road, and Squirrel Point requires about a 3/4 mile hike through the woods, but they’re both beautiful, small lighthouses on the Kennebec River.

Note :  Doubling Point is closed until further notice for repairs. I’m monitoring this and will update once renovations are complete!

→  Bailey Island , which is a very small little island that’s accessible by car, and about a 20-minute detour each way. The best thing to see here is the Giant’s Stairs Trail, which offers beautiful coastal views, and giant rocks you can climb around (just practice caution, of course!). There’s also a cute little place to eat right by the bridge called Sundrenched, which is waterfront and has outdoor seating. This is a nice place to get off-the-beaten-path.

Giant’s Stairs on Bailey Island.

Day 8: Head Back To Boston

It’s the end of your trip! Depending on when you need to make your way back home, or to the airport, you may have some time in the morning to explore a few of the places I mentioned above, but I left this day open in case you have to catch an early flight, or start your drive back home early.

If you do happen to have some time on this day to explore, I would suggest you end the previous day in Rockport, and then explore Salem and Marblehead on this day before heading back to the airport.

Optional Itinerary Adjustments

→ If you have more time and are a city person, I would recommend adding a night to Portland and Boston.

→ If you have extra time and don’t want to add a night to a city, I have two suggestions.  First option : add a night to Camden to spend a day exploring the nearby attractions (lighthouses, Rockland, etc.) to make the drive from Portland to Camden easier.  Second option : add a night to Bar Harbor to see more of the park, and enjoy more hiking.

→ If you have even longer, you could make this a 2-week adventure by driving up the coast of Maine to Lubec, and then crossing the Canada border to the charming town of St. Andrews by the Sea, and Campobello Island. You could also take the CAT ferry from Bar Harbor to Nova Scotia.

I have a detailed guide on  visiting Lubec, Maine , if you wanted to explore places further north!

Best Towns To Stay In On The Drive

For an overnight stay, these are my suggestions on the best places to stay based on experience when it comes to options for dining and accommodations (plus, lovely scenery, of course!). You’ll just want to pick where you stay based on how far you want to drive each day.

As you saw in my itinerary, I included some suggestions for overnight stops, but you may want to customize this trip to your liking (which I encourage!), so I wanted to provide you with more options. It’s also good to know that you won’t have time to stay overnight in all these places unless you extend your trip, but you  will  be able to, at the very least, drive through them all.

→  Rockport, MA : Not far from Boston, and if you’re looking get a leisurely start or slow-burn end to your trip, I really love to recommend a stay in Rockport. Most everything is pretty walkable, with cool shopping, nice hotel options, and idyllic scenery.

Where To Stay In Rockport :

✓  The Cove at Rockport

✓  Addison Choate Boutique Hotel

→  Portsmouth, NH : As mentioned, fantastic dining and shopping, with lots to keep you busy in the evening after you arrive! Plus, the historic charm is really quite lovely.

Where To Stay In Portsmouth :

✓  The Hotel Portsmouth

✓  Hotel Thaxter

→  Kennebunkport OR Ogunquit : Both of these charming coastal towns that are very close to on another, and both make for a great overnight stay. Kennebunkport has more options for nicer accommodations, but Ogunquit has a gorgeous beach. Both have very charming downtowns that are easily walkable with lots of places to eat and shop! Just pick based on what vibe you’re going for: beachy or just traditional coastal.

Where To Stay In Kennebunkport :

✓  Captains Collection Historic Inns

✓  The Boathouse

Where To Stay In Ogunquit :

✓  Anchorage By The Sea

✓  Cliff House : Technically in York, but a short 10-minute drive to Ogunquit. I like to suggest it because it’s a fantastic resort with amazing coastal views, and worth the splurge! It also makes my list of the top  New England resorts and spas  😉

→  Boothbay Harbor : I love stopping here for a night or two every time I make this drive. It’s very small and easily seen in a few hours, and I like to stay the night so I have the option to take a boat tour. I also find the shops and restaurants really great.

Where To Stay In Boothbay Harbor :

✓  Harborage Inn On The Waterfront

✓  Spruce Point Inn

→  Camden : Lastly, I think Camden is the best place to stay before reaching Bar Harbor. Built around a gorgeous harbor, the coastal scenery here is beautiful, and it’s a known sailing destination. There’s also a great Main Street for shopping and dining.

Where To Stay In Camden :

✓  Camden Harbour Inn

✓  Lord Camden Inn

Where To See Fall Foliage Between Boston & Bar Harbor

Manchester By The Sea in the fall season.

If you happen to be planning your trip to coincide with fall foliage, then I would love for you to consider adjusting the itinerary slightly (but don’t worry, it’s not too different!). Most places already on the itinerary offer amazing foliage color. Here are some suggestions to keep in mind:

→  The Essex Coastal Byway in Massachusetts is GORGEOUS in the fall  with lots of foliage color. I’ve done this drive during peak foliage, and I was shocked at how beautiful it was. Manchester-By-The-Sea, Essex, Salem, and Newburyport are especially beautiful in the fall. And, of course, Salem is  famous  for its October festivities!

→  Portsmouth offers some really lovely fall foliage  during this time of the year. It’s also an especially cozy place to visit because of all the historic New England architecture.

→  Boothbay Harbor  is also amazing in the fall, and the entire harbor is surrounded in fall color. Head out on a boat tour to see even more beautiful fall foliage! Tours usually end around mid-October, so there are typically opportunities that coincide with peak foliage.

→  Camden is also spectacular in the fall . I definitely recommend hiking or driving up the Mt. Battie Auto Road to take in the views of the harbor from above. It’s the best during foliage season!

→  Kennebunkport  also offers some beautiful fall foliage. Having been in October a few times, the fall season always impresses me in this coastal town.

Kennebunkport, Maine in October.

→ Of course,  the starting and end points on this road trip are stand-outs in the fall, too.   Acadia National Park  is stunning in the fall season with foliage color, and  Boston  is also amazing this time of the year. Although, it’s good to know that Boston tends to peak later in October, so in the fall, you may want to plan to spend more time in Boston at the end of your trip to get a glimpse of some foliage color.

What To Pack For This Road Trip

This will depend entirely on what time of year you visit, so plan accordingly based on the season when it comes to clothing and footwear. Beyond that, here are some things I recommend you bring regardless of what time of year you visit.

→  Light sweater or jacket  – even in the summer! If you plan to take any boat tours or get up for sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, you’ll want this to stay warm.

→  Reusable water bottle  to stay hydrated.

→  Dramamine  if you plan to hop on a boat tour and tend to get seasick.

→  Comfortable shoes  – I know this seems obvious, but you can leave your fancy shoes at home. I usually wear a really comfortable pair of sandals in the summer, or sneakers in the spring/fall. If you take a boat tour, they may have some requirements on the type of footwear you wear, so double check that, too.

→  Hiking boots  if you plan to tackle any trails in Acadia. You’ll be happy to have the ankle support.

→  Camera, of course!  You’re going to see so much incredible scenery on this trip, you’ll want to capture the best memories along the way. This is a good trip to get a tripod if you don’t have one – they even make inexpensive ones for iPhones that are perfect for just about anyone.

Tips For This Road Trip

→  Offline maps  on your GPS! You’ll have cell phone service in most places, but when you’re near a beach or inside Acadia National Park, you may lose service.

→  Be ready to pay tolls on the roads . If you’re renting a car for the trip, I suggest making sure your rental comes with an EZ Pass for the toll roads to make things easier. Most of them in this area are now cashless and don’t require you to stop – you just get a bill for the tolls instead, which you can work out with your rental company.

→  Bring Some Cash  – I know this seems obvious, but as someone who  never  carries around cash, I’m always reminded when I make this road trip that some places still don’t take credit cards! Usually places like ice cream stands and seafood shacks are the ones that may be cash only, so it’s good to have a small amount on you at all times. Better yet, get a debit card that reimburses you for ATM fees, like the Charles Schwab checking card. Most places will take cards, though.

→  Prepare for crowds at popular places . Depending on the time of year you take this trip, most places will bring in some level of crowds. The most popular destination is Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, and this is where you can expect the biggest crowds. If you travel in spring or fall, you’ll see fewer people, but places will still be lively.

→  Prepare for the cost . New England in general is just an expensive region to visit, unfortunately, and prices tend to be higher than other parts of the country.

More posts you may enjoy:

• The BEST 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary
• The PERFECT Fall Foliage New England Road Trip Itinerary
• The Best Time To Visit New England
• Incredible Lighthouses In New England To See
• Maine Lighthouse Road Trip Itinerary
• Gorgeous New England Islands Worth Visiting

That’s A Wrap On The Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip!

And there you have it! After years of perfecting it, I’m thrilled to finally share my unforgettable Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine road trip itinerary with you. I truly believe that the New England coast is such a special and memorable region to experience for yourself, and with this guide, you’ll see the very best it has to offer. Happy planning!

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Solar eclipse 2024: Is it safe to drive during the eclipse? How to stay safe

The eclipse will occur Monday afternoon and roads and highways will be filled with regular Monday traffic.

Is it a good thing to be driving during an eclipse?

Here's some information in case you're stuck in traffic this afternoon.

Eclipse 2024: It's total solar eclipse day 2024! Eclipse time, where to buy glasses & weather in Delaware

Is it safe to drive during the eclipse?

Yes, it's safe to drive, but AAA reminds drivers that there could be more traffic on the road before, during and after the event, so people should use caution.

Katie Bower, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning, told the Detroit Free Press driving in an eclipse is not something motorists generally think about.

“Since they are such a rare occurrence, we don’t often think about how an eclipse might impact driving conditions due to the unique challenges it brings to roadway safety,” according to Katie Bower, director of the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning. “As the eclipse unfolds, and visibility decreases, drivers and pedestrians should be extra cautious, patient and alert to ensure everyone makes it home safely.”

How to drive during the Eclipse

According to AAA.com , you should do the following while driving during the eclipse:

• Keep your vehicle’s headlights on.  
• Put the sun visor down to block your view of the sun.  
• Don’t wear eclipse glasses while driving.  
• Don’t try to photograph or video the eclipse while driving.  
• Don’t pull over to the side of the road, highway or interstate to view the eclipse.  
• Exit the roadway and park in a safe area away from traffic to view the eclipse.  
• Be mindful of pedestrians who may be walking around with their eyes on the sky! 

When does the eclipse begin?

Though Delawareans won't be able to see a full eclipse of the sun, the partial eclipse begins at 2:07 p.m. and ends at 4:34 p.m. on Monday, April 8.

The maximum eclipse begins at 3:23 p.m.  

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Thinking of taking a last-minute drive to see the eclipse here's what to know.

Geoff Brumfiel

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred. AFP Contributor/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred.

NASA says that roughly 31.6 million people live in the path of this year's total solar eclipse, and a little under half of the U.S. population lives within 200 miles driving distance of the path of totality .

That could mean many millions of Americans will hit the road to get a better view on April 8. If you're still pondering whether or not you want to make the journey, here's what to consider.

Have some destinations in mind, and check the weather and cloud cover forecasts in advance

It's a good idea to scout out one or more locations within driving distance, so that you have some flexibility if traffic or weather is threatening your plans, says Jonathan Upchurch, a professor emeritus of civil engineering at Arizona State University who has studied travel around solar eclipses.

There are several interactive tools that show the path of totality, including Eclipse2024.org and the National Solar Observatory . You can use them to figure out what sites might work best for you.

In terms of weather, check not just the weather forecast, but also the cloud cover forecast. Some websites, such as Windy.com will predict cloud cover ahead of time, giving you a sense of whether you'll actually be able to see the eclipse in all its glory.

Everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses before April 8

During the total solar eclipse in 2017, Upchurch says he chose to go to Idaho "because there were some great chances of having sunny skies, and I had the opportunity to be nimble and relocate if I wanted to."

Before driving into the path of totality, make sure your gas tank is full and that you've got everything you need

During the last total solar eclipse in 2017, it's estimated some 5 million people took to the roads, and those numbers will potentially be much higher this year.

Given all that, Upchurch says it's important to make sure you're taking what you need into the path of totality. You should make sure your car is gassed or charged up, and that you have plenty of snacks and water with you in case you get stranded for a while, especially when trying to leave.

Solar Eclipse 2024: Totality stretches from Texas to Maine

Simple tips to safely photograph the eclipse with your cellphone.

Also don't forget to bring eclipse glasses, which must be worn anytime you're looking at the sun, except for the few minutes when it is completely blocked by the moon.

Some state emergency planners also recommend bringing a paper map or road atlas in case cellular networks become overloaded with visitors seeking directions from their phones.

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone! Erika Goldring/FilmMagic hide caption

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone!

Arrive early and stay late

Once you figure out where you're going to watch the eclipse, and you've got your supplies, try to get there early. Although traffic is likely to be heavier than normal on the morning of eclipse day, it still should be possible to reach many destinations without too much hassle, says Upchurch.

"Leaving is definitely going to be more of a problem," he says. As the eclipse concludes, people will take to the roads all at once to try and get home as fast as they can. In 2017, that led to traffic jams that lasted many hours in some areas. If possible, Upchurch says, people should stay put for a while to try and avoid the worst of the post-eclipse rush, which in 2017 stretched even into the following day in some parts of the country.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

And one more thing: If you do find yourself on the move near the time of the eclipse, state officials stress that you should not simply pull over to the side of the road or highway you're driving on. It's important to be parked legally and safely at the moment of totality.

If you're already in the path of totality: Relax and enjoy!

Several major metropolitan areas including Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo are already inside the path of totality, so there's no need to seek a better view, Upchurch says. You'll probably have the most fun simply staying where you are.

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If you're on the edge of the path of totality, however, you might consider making a short trip to get closer to the center of the eclipse's path.

"If you're within about 40 miles of the center line, you'll have two-and-a-half minutes or more" of complete totality, Upchurch says. It's up to you to decide whether it's worth making the trip to a more central location.

Despite studying the potential hassles of traveling extensively, Upchurch says he's still looking forward to seeing the 2024 eclipse, which he plans to watch from Texas.

"Totality is absolutely spectacular," he says. "If you have a chance to witness it, I would do it."

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