Then head to Portland Observatory. Sandi Barrett. If passing through while driving Boston to Portland, Maine, I suggest seeing these things in Salem: Click here to read about more things to do in Salem, including day trip itineraries! From there, you can pick your way among the rocks around the bay, checking out the natural wonder Maines coasts have to offer. Otherwise, simply follow Interstate 95 (I-95) North all the way across Massachusetts and New Hampshire until you reach Portsmouth, where the Piscataqua River Bridge takes you into Maine. Anywhere from a day to a week, and it really just depends on how much time you have to dedicate to the trip. Get the most out of your Hampton Beach visit with links to all the around town happenings in How To Spend A Perfect Day In Quaint Hampton Beach. Is Austria Expensive? Take Route 93N out of Boston until it hits Route 95N. Click here for an awesome food tour of Portland! Thats why many people choose to rent or buy a car and then journey across different parts of the country. 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. Swing by Portsmouth Brewery for a glass of beer. This article has links to products and services we love, which we may make commission from. This pedestrian path along the coastline just over a mile each way, so plan your time accordingly. Ever since Kerouac published On the Road, the thought of driving around this amazing country has been on everyones minds. There are some great cafes, bars and restaurants in the immediate vicinity, and most of Portland's main attractions are within walking distance. #91 of 1,793 things to do in Maine Scenic Drives Write a review What people are saying " October trip " Oct 2022 It was a beautiful drive. Check out the rates for your stay at Expedia, Hotels, or Booking. Hike the Mount Agamenticus trail for spectacular mountain views (especially amazing in the fall!). The total Boston to Maine road trip distance covers 285 miles if you go all the way to Bar Harbor. Shopping at the airy Prudential Center, home to high-end brands, is a feast for the fashionistas eyes. Along the route from Boston to Maine idyllic harbor towns, dutiful lighthouses and the crashing Atlantic call for your attention. Also, walk along the beach to see it from a distance, and walk under it for some cool photo opportunities. Golden Road skirts the edge of Baxter State Park, where you'll find Mt Katahdin and dozens of amazing trails. The chances are that your total driving journey will be more like 300 to 400 miles (480 640 km) long. Another great stop is the Salt Cellar, where you can find a wide variety of finishing salts. Click here to read all about the best New England gifts and things you can buy! Winter is the only time of year a day trip from Boston to Portland, Maine might be tough, since the days are so short. The busy airport offers a convenient spot to begin your Boston to Bangor road trip. Our Money-saving Guide! As you begin your trek north, stop for lunch at Bob Lobster in Newburyport. It's possible to visit Maine all year round, but depending on when you travel you'll have a very different experience. At just under two hours, a Boston to Portland ME road trip is perfect for a day trip or a whole weekend getaway. Your email address will not be published. Walk down to the end of Bearskin Neck to cross the breakwater jetty. Every Stonewall product you love, but can never find at home, is here just for you. If you do one thing during your time in Ogunquit, I would say this is it. Distance: 112 miles Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 45 mins For simplicity's sake, this road trip guide assumes you've already explored Boston to your heart's content and are ready to explore beyond the lands "just outside Boston." T his first segment will take you through New Hampshire and into Maine. Unlike embarking on a road trip in the western USA (for instance, from Seattle to Yellowstone National Park ), the drive from Boston to Bar Harbor is relatively densely populated and you won't be driving through large patches of open wilderness with services available. If you have time, head over to Willard Beach next. Afternoon: Drive into Portland, park your car for the day, and grab lunch. You can spend lots of time wandering the Old Port district exploring wonderful restaurants and quaint shops. Walk along one of the beaches in York (Long Sands Beach is my personal favorite). To help you with your route planning, we've provided more detailed driving distances further down the page. Both of these places are must-visits if you love nature. Walk across the beach to get to them, enjoy the views from there, and then have fun walking along the waterfront path nearby. 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). However, they jam a tremendous amount of beachy fun in a little package. Yellowstone National Park might be the most beautiful area of the country while southern states might contain more fascinating indigenous history. If you're lucky you might be able to see whales feeding in the bay here in summer. Heres what I suggest you do in Kennebunkport when stopping during your road trip: One of the most iconic sites in southern Maine is the pier at Old Orchard Beach, and this is a cool place to stop when driving from Boston to Portland, Maine because youll kind of feel like youve stepped back in time. Belfast is a charming town that rises from the waterfront to a thriving shopping area. Different parts of America offer different benefits for tourists. Required fields are marked *. Fortunately, there is plenty to experience along the route from Boston to Maine. This is a really great weekend or long weekend road trip to take, as youll have time to stop at most of the destinations on the way there or back. All the seafood shacks and ice cream places are open, and theres a lively buzz in the air. Grab an ice cream from The Ice Cream Store, the cutest little New England ice cream shack. Summer along the coast of Maine is just like anywhere in New England by the water it comes alive. The historic Massachusetts city of Boston is the starting point for this scenic drive. You may also like our guide to Bar Harbor in the fall. Freeport is home to the L.L. Another food tour wroth 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. It definitely has its own vibe that is really fun to experience. Once you leave Boston, the main urban areas of interest include Newbury Port, Salisbury, Hampton, Portsmouth, York, Portland, Brunswick, and Waterville. It has such a fun downtown area with great shops and restaurants, and the beach in Ogunquit is really stunning. Whether she is leaving on a jet plane or exploring the open road, Sandi loves to visit destinations that offer cool and interesting activities, fabulous culinary creations, and fun libations. If youre going to Maine anyway, make sure you have a list of things to do once you get there. One of the top hotels in town is Queen Anne's Revenge, a beautiful location known for its fantastically welcoming team, and for the immaculate design that runs through every room. Rags to Riches, The 5 Best Places To See Monkeys In Costa Rica In 2023, 5 Ways To Travel Tulum On A Budget Top Travel Tips, Is Leon, Mexico, Safe? The menu changes seasonally and is focused on the restaurants own garden-grown produce and locally-sourced proteins. look no further than the Lodge at Moosehead Lake. If youd rather skip Portland, go straight from Boston to Maine right into Camden instead. 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. From here, rejoin the interstate and follow it north as it runs parallel to the Penobscot River up to Medway. I've driven this way many times and each time I discover something new. If you decide to head to Kennebunkport, the drive is only about 30-40 minutes from Portland. Maine is a lovely summer/fall destination on the East Coast. For a Boston to Portland, Maine day trip, I suggest trying to take this day trip in the summer when the days are longer, which will afford you more time to see as much as possible. I can never decide if I prefer Ogunquit or Kennebunkport, but what I can tell you is, theyre both definitely worth visiting when driving Boston to Portland, Maine. I'm Sam. Follow Route 1 out of Boston then join the interstate heading north. Visit all the museums. Youll 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. Spend some time hiking and canoeing at Hirundo Wildlife Refuge just outside of Bangor. So, continue reading on the learn about the best route, our recommended stop and the best time to set off on this scenic adventure. Scenic Drive Traveling Maine's Coast To Boston In The Fall// 7 day Maine Itinerary Go French Yourself Dit bonjour mon agence virtuelle - Hampton Haymes! Ogunquit is such a fun little coastal town in southern Maine, and its one of the destinations I recommend the most if youre looking for a great mix of beach time and small town charm. Road trippers will be assailed with goosebumps right from Leasburg, a drowsy town located in Missouri's Crawford Countyto Salem, about 48 miles away. All Rights Reserved. What is the distance from Boston to Acadia National Park? Stops along 2 different routes include Bear Brook and Hampton Beach State Parks, Old Orchard Beach Pier, Canobie Lake Park, Salisbury Beach State Reservation, and Salem. 24 Best Things To Do On Cape Cod In The Fall 2023 (Ideas For September, October & November! Yes, the Amtrak Downeaster train provides service between Boston and Portland, Maine. Definitely make time to stop here if you enjoy scenic views and fresh sea air. When you are finished shopping, stop at Stars & Stripes Brewing Company and enjoy a fresh craft beer while you ogle over your shopping purchases. Additionally, they offer cooking classes in their onsite kitchen. Keep reading to increase your understanding of this region. The waterfront is busy with fishing and leisure boats making their way out to Penobscot Bay. Walk along the waterfront path to admire the views. Spend some time exploring all that the wonderful city of Boston has to offer before heading to Maine. Route 1 to Route 186 Winter Harbor, Birch Harbor, Prospect Harbor, ME Phone: 207-624-3300. This detour will add just over an hour of driving time (plus any time you spend in Rockport). You can find Loccitane, Swarovski, Oakley, and more that will satisfy your desire to own pretty things. The Boston to Maine road trip involves traveling through some of Americas coldest destinations so be prepared for this. Of course, you could always make the trip during the summer. When you leave Portland, head north on Old Route 1 for one of New England's most scenic coastal drives. It's a great place to enjoy the great outdoors and is home to some of the country's oldest towns, where you'll find historic squares and quaint redbrick homes on the seaports looking out across the Atlantic. As well as being a gateway to Acadia National Park, there are great food and drink options in the town of Bar Harbor itself, and beautiful views out over the ocean. If youre a fan of the movie The Proposal, you may also recognize some of the filming locations in Rockport! But, I think its worth it if you have the time, and have never been before. Centrally located Portland Harbor Hotel stylishly combines modern design with hints of coastal chic, and it's a beautiful place to stay while you're in town. With that in mind, research the best things to do in Maine. You sure can! Follow the highway south the short distance to Solon, then turn onto Route 201A to cross the Kennebec River before taking Cross Town Road as far as Embden. If youd rather dive deeper into the local culinary history and top spots, go for the Old Port Seafood Lovers Tour to trylobster roll, New England or seafood chowder, and Maine craft beer. Portsmouth Brewery is an anchor in Portsmouths bar and restaurant scene. Its very scenic! What are your favorite things to do? That cruise also features as one of the most romantic things to do in Portland, in case youre looking for more date ideas during your visit. We've picked out some of the highlights, but one of the real pleasures of this route is the chance to stop off and explore the small towns, coastal scenery and big views that you happen upon as you drive. You can even do a tour of the museum located in the former keepers house. Once you reach Bangor, youll take exit 182A to get onto Route 395, which turns into Route 1A. Kelly's Kwik shop in Leasburg, Missouri, via Village of Leasburg Mo. Six days isn't very long. Dont skip the Historical Guided Walking Tour if you want to learn more about this area. Theyre about experiencing and enjoying the journey along the way. On this drive, youll pass through charming small towns in Massachusetts, visit the best coastal town in New Hampshire, and then begin your drive up the coast of Maine, stopping in some amazing seaside destinations with lots of character and fun things to do. Youll love the fitness center, nightly bar, and the beautiful balcony for every room. If youre into the founding of this great nation, though, then it all begins in the northeast. I also think its one of the best beach towns in New England. Ensure your car is fitted with snow tires and always carry a shovel to dig yourself out of trouble. Free and abundant parking at Moseley is ideal for road trippers; plus, the bed and breakfast is within walking distance from downtown! Schoodic National Scenic Byway explores a less-developed part of the rugged Downeast Maine coast. If youre just opting for the Boston to Bar Harbor road trip, the drive will take you about 4 hours and 40 minutes. If youre coming from outside of New England, youll definitely want to spend a day or two in Boston before taking this road trip, but if you already live in Boston, the payoff along this is really rewarding. On this drive, you'll pass through charming small towns in Massachusetts, visit the best coastal town in New Hampshire, and then begin your drive up the coast of Maine, stopping in some amazing seaside destinations with lots of character and fun things to do. My hope is to inspire you to have an unforgettable Northeast adventure of your own, and show you just how beautiful this little corner of the world truly is. Alternatively, drive on to Portland and do a Portland Head Light day tour where a local historian takes you to the lighthouse instead. How To Spend A Fantastic Day In Freeport, Maine: Shopping, Eating, And Relaxing is full of tips for getting the most out of your visit. Also, youll be unlikely to take the quickest route between the start and the end of your Boston to Maine road trip. Summer In New England: Places To Go & Things To Do! If youre following this whole Boston to Maine road trip itinerary, then we recommend at least 4 nights in total; youll want one night in Portland, one night in Camden, and two nights in Bar Harbor. With that, lets get into it. Each of these towns is also pretty much on the direct route from Boston to Portland, with minimal diverging off course. But really, spring and fall are also a great time to take this trip (especially early spring when the days are also longer). Theres a lot more to discover besides all the witch history (although, thats also very fun and interesting). This is a rugged and beautiful stretch of coast, so take your time exploring the inlets and islands that stretch out to the south of the highway. 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. Spend some time exploring Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor before returning along the route back to Ellsworth. 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. The ramp fritters are a light and flavorful starter. After these stops, you can drive off to downtown Portland. There are lots of shops and restaurants to choose from, as well as Ogunquit Beach to enjoy. Acadia is one of the top-ten most visited national parks, pointing to its awe-inspiring beauty and unforgettable natural areas. Visit Eat More Cheese to kit out your picnic basket, then grab a bench and enjoy the waterfront views. Around 8 hours and 30 minutes out of Boston, Acadia National Park is one of the must-see stops along this route and spending a night or two in nearby Bar Harbor gives plenty of time to enjoy the national park. We recommend staying overnight at least once along the way, turning this into a two-day drive, perhaps over the weekend. Ive got you covered!Click here to check out the best prices on Discover Cars! If youre from the south, then you probably dont realize just how cold it can get up there. Every road trip will be unique, meaning that the distance you travel will vary. Popham Beach State Park - Where the Kennebec River meets the sea you can swim, surf or stroll along the shifting sands at this popular state park. It has sections of rocks to scramble over and a sandy beach area along with on-street parking. 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. Make a day of it in the summer for picnics, hikes, and swimming holes. September 21, 2022. This guide to the cities in Maine and what to do in each will help. I suggest Ogunquit because chances are, if you live or are coming from Boston, youve already experienced nearby places like Salem and Newburyport. Baths Main Street is an artisan haven. Once you've crossed over from New Hampshire to Maine, make your way north eastwards, keeping the coast on your right-hand side. The best thing to see is Old Orchard Pier right at the beach. For Stephen King fans, SK Tours will treat you to a fascinating 3-hour tour of locations that inspired Kings Derry, Maine, filming locations, and a view of his private residence. The direct drive from Bostonto Portlandis107 mi(172 km), and should have a drive time of 1 hr 49 minsin normal traffic. Here, you can park up to explore the trails of Bigelow Preserve or continue further along East Flagstaff Road to enjoy views out across the lake. Ask questions, get inspired, and plan your next adventure with us! Wed love to hear your experiences in the comments below! This is a small beach, but what makes it worth the stop is the cute little beach shacks all the way to your right. The total Boston to Bar Harbor driving distance is about 285 miles; from Camden to Bar Harbor is just around 77 miles. Check out our list of 5 Fantastic Breweries To Visit In Boston to help you decide which one or two you want to visit while you are in town. Sit down with a map (either physical or online) and plot the route you want to take. This 60-mile route makes for a lovely 2-hour trip in chilly autumn temps for leaf peepin' or in the winter for views of snow-covered trees. Theyre all very easy to spend a few hours in before moving on, and depending on how much time you have, you can either do half of them on your way to Portland, and the other half on your way back, or eliminate any that youve done before, or dont have any interest in. Boston is the perfect city to begin this scenic New England seacoast trip. That's because Boston can often be the ideal starting point to make your way up the coast. The 275-mile road trip from Boston to Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor takes 5 hours 30 minutes to drive. New England Road Trip Stop #13: Island Candy Company We stopped on a whim at Island . A hub for big-name concerts and great food, the hometown of Stephen King, and close to forested wonderment, Bangor is unique. Contact Us | About Us | Privacy | Disclaimer, As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases US & UK Hey East Coast USA are participants in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.. Use our Scenic Drive Finder and Road Trip Planner to easily create custom road trips. Hampton Beach is a classic East Coast beach, where aromas of fried food, suntan lotion, and salty air morph together in the quintessential day at the beach memory. 8 Scenic Drives in Maine that Will Leave You Speechless by Sarah Lamagna Updated April 11, 2023 Photo: Romiana Lee / Shutterstock There's no shortage of secluded roads and dramatic views in Vacationland what's hard is choosing which ones to hit up. The 960-mile road trip from Boston to Maine and back takes about 22 hours to drive. Happy driving! Late spring and early-mid summer (so, June, July and August) are the best times to drive from Boston to Portland, Maine, simply because the weather is typically the nicest, and the days are the longest. They want to stop at beauty spots and historical monuments. In terms of monuments, lookout for historical homes, lighthouses, and observatories along the way. As New Englands only National Park, you cant skip the hiking trails and stunning views if youre road tripping in Maine! Youll 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 hours drive to this point. ), you can then get a better idea of how long your drive will be in total. Heres my list of things to check out in York and Cape Neddick during your drive: Looking to do on a lighthouse road trip through Maine?Click here to read about my itinerary for the best Maine lighthouse driving tour! As the names of the towns imply, these were founded by the English as soon as they arrived in the New World. Visit Cape Neddick to see Nubble Lighthouse. You can really immerse yourself in the coastal vibe here. Explore the shops in town (Goods Ogunquit is especially fun to visit). If you're having issues using the site, please enable JavaScript and refresh your browser. Boston to Maine Road Trip: Your Complete Itinerary Guide. The 960-mile road trip from Boston to Maine and back takes about 22 hours to drive. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. So, if you only want to see the pier and dont want to pay to park for the whole day, this may be a good stop to skip. Roads are kept as clear as possible, but always drive with the freezing conditions in mind, and apply extra caution if you're used to driving in more temperate parts of the world. Theyre actually very close to one another, which makes it easy to see them all within a couple of hours at most. 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. The 830-mile road trip from Ohio to Portland, Maine takes 14 hours to drive non-stop. Im definitely not saying that Kittery isnt worth a stop because it definitely is (or it wouldnt be on this list! Traveling solo, with hubby Chris, or the entire Barrett clan there is always a story waiting to be told. Their selection of lobster rolls are fresh and tasty. Heading inland from Bar Harbor you'll soon find yourself driving through Maine's beautiful interior, where rivers, lakes, forests and mountains create a beautiful backdrop to any trip. My favorite place to stay is the Addison Choate hotel, which is only a 10-minute walk to Bearskin Neck, and offers really beautiful rooms to stay in. Spring takes a while to warm up and can be extremely unpredictable. 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). 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). You'll experience the east coast food - like lobster and seafood - and take in the beautiful Maine lighthouses that still guide the ships along the rocky coastline. When you need to stop for a bite, try Earls Kitchen & Bar or Eataly, both globally well-known establishments. Instead, its better to choose a shorter route that can be accomplished more quickly. Heres what I suggest you do in Old Orchard when stopping during your road trip: Tip: Expect to pay for parking while visiting Old Orchard, and the closer to the beach you are, the more it will be. Thinking of taking a Boston to Maine road trip? There are even more towns further north, depending on how far into Maine you travel. That makes them excellent places to learn about the founding of America. It also makes for fun photos. If you're not focused on a scenic road trip, you can drive from Boston to Acadia in 4 hours and 30 minutes, with no stops. These are the key sights that make the trip worth taking. Join our free Facebook group for travelers and connect with a global network of passionate explorers. For the L.L. Walk Marginal Way from town in Ogunquit, which ends in Perkins Cove, a small little village in Ogunquit. Semi-retired from a long career in marketing, Sandi is making the most of her boomer traveling, go-go years, with a goal to visit as many places as possible. For the most scenic drive from Boston to Portland, Maine, go part of the way via the highway-free, coastal route. Its just about half-way between Boston and Portland, and has all the amazing, luxury amenities youd expect like gorgeously appointed rooms with ocean views, incredible on-site restaurants, a spa and every square inch of their property offering dramatic coastline views. The 110-mile road trip from Boston to Portland takes 1 hour 45 minutes to drive. Perhaps you want to stop to eat. Finish up your adventure in Bangor, a friendly and walkable city. Whether visitors want to drive straight to Maine's stunning Midcoast region or make a few stops along the way, this scenic, three-hour drive offers the perfect amount of serenity. You can also join in with the celebrations at Maine's many summer events, which include Old Port Festival in Portland in June, and Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland in August. Walk around Dock Square to visit the shops. Therefore, its best to assume your route will be longer than this. Route128North North Shore, MA Destination Expert for Salem Level Contributor 8,035 posts 174 reviews 185 helpful votes 1. Finally, before you hit the road, make your way to Old Port to enjoy the view out across the water one last time while you watch fishing crews haul in their catch of lobster. This is one of the most unique lighthouses in New England, as its very ornate in its design. Thats where Europeans first arrived to found the USA as we know it today. Nestled 90 miles north of the bustling streets of Boston is the quaint coastal town of Kennebunkport. Beyond the cursory background you can find in a guidebook or school history book, listen to the less frequently told stories, too. Head to the Portland Museum of Art to catch a really varied and thought-provoking selection of exhibitions, ranging from contemporary pieces to works by some of art history's biggest names. This is a great route to get acquainted with some of the best of coastal New England, and since its such an easy drive from Boston, its perfect for tailoring to your own schedule. Daytime temperatures are pleasant, from the mid-70s in September down to around 60 in October, but evenings will start to feel cold. Is The Drive From Boston To Portland, Maine Scenic? If passing through while driving Boston to Portland, Maine, I suggest seeing these things in Rockport: Click here to read my guide on all the best things to do in Rockport! This route is essentially following I-95, so while it's the fastest way there, it's . This article will help you make your Boston to Maine road trip as epic as possible. Explore the unique shops and art galleries along Bearskin Neck. For even more accommodation options, check out our Bar Harbor hotel guides: Heres the full Boston to Maine road trip map for you to follow more easily. You might like to explore the miles and miles of rivers, inlets and rugged coast that sits to the south of the highway here, including Harpswell, Popham Beach, Georgetown Island and Boothbay Harbor. The Moseley Cottage Inn and Town Motel is a sweet bed and breakfast just steps away from Agamont Park. The view of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in New England, rises high above any man-made structure around. Click here to book your stay at the Addison Choate in Rockport! Theyre about unexpected obstacles and spontaneous detours. That said, there are some really cool things to visit in Kittery, and heres my list of places to check out: York and Cape Neddick are great areas to stop in when driving Boston to Portland, Maine, and offer a nice mix between walking around town to do some shopping and dining, or getting out into nature. Alternatively, make a longer trip of it and stop at all three spots along the way. This Scenic 171-Mile Drive May Be The Most Underrated Adventure In Oregon. Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list. However, to get your creative juices flowing here are some of the best things to do in Maine: Maine is full of incredible beauty and fascinating history. Boston and Maine are near neighbours, and you can make the 70-mile drive from Boston to York, Maine in just over an hour. With guests like Thomas Rhett, Jay Leno, Brothers Osborne, Kiss, and others, you can plan your visit around a fun waterfront venue or cozy auditorium. If you prefer to do a self-guided tour, consider this audio tour, which weve personally used at Acadia National Park in Maine. Visit the Nickels-Sortwell House, the 1812 Jail, and the Castle Tucker home for a peek into the lives and times of the people of coastal Maine. Walk along the shores of Ogunquit Beach, which has 3 miles of pristine sand. You can enjoy amazing views right out of the hotel and relax after a long day of hiking and driving in the hotel's bar or by the pool table. I have a hard time not staying here when I visit Kennebunkport. But Ive done this drive in early spring, summer and late fall and loved it just as much each time. Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse is next, and this is a fun one because you can walk across the entire breakwater and get right up to the cute little lighthouse. Here, you can spend some time exploring Moose Lake Scenic Byway, the Maine Highlands and the northern part of the Kennebec Valley, before continuing south through Abbot and Kingsbury Plantation to reach Bingham. Now that you know how to plan the perfect road trip driving Boston to Portland, Maine, I hope youve begun to plan your own adventure! Unlimited stops, edit, share, find recommended places of interest and campgrounds, manage budgets, print or export directions and more. Order a flight to sample a variety of their craft brews at this fun lunch or dinner spot. You'll encounter snowfall and freezing temperatures through the winter compared to temperatures in the 80s in summer! Be sure to keep on reading to learn all the details regarding this beautiful itinerary. In this case, itll be much less dangerous and you wont need to pack so much survival gear. Alternatively, you could skip Portland altogether and drive straight from Boston to Camden ME in about 3 hours and 15 minutes. This drive can take anywhere from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours and 15 minutes without any stops, and it all depends on traffic. 7 Reasons We Say Yes! 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. Definitely walk around the actual pier, and plan to get a few fun fair foods, for sure! A must-see shop is the Stonewall Kitchen Company Store. Did you follow our advice for this Boston to Maine road trip from start to finish? The Marriott Vacation Club Pulse is in the renovated historic Custom House. I even have an itinerary for a day trip from Boston to Portland for those who are really short on time! Delve beneath the surface with a locally-led tour to learn more. Temperatures on the coast can reach the high 30s Fahrenheit at times, but inland you should expect temperatures below freezing, and as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit, from December to January. This ocean-facing signal tower is a reminder of Portland's maritime past, and all through summer you can take a guided tour to learn more about the city's ocean-going heritage. Short Sands, Yorks main sandy beach, is located in the heart of the action. You can pick your favorite to be your final destination. If youre 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. Or did you just choose one stop along the way? . Make sure you choose something to end your Boston to Maine road trip and use it as motivation to keep on chewing up the miles. This is where the 3 Portland lighthouses are, and I highly suggest planning time to see all of them. Boston is the perfect city to begin this scenic New England seacoast trip. When you're ready to move on, return back along Long Falls Dam Road, turning right to briefly follow ME-16 west before taking a left onto the road to New Portland. Zoom up Interstate 95 for a quick route to relaxation or enjoy a leisurely drive along the coast to take in the sights. The Great American Road Trip is hallowed ground for the traveler. 2022 Journeying The Globe. With downhill skiing in the mountains, Nordic skiing through the forests, snowmobile trails and ice fishing, Maine can be a fabulous winter destination. If you do travel in spring, check out Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race which takes place in Bangor in April - people travel from all over the country to join in this huge event. 15 Stunning Stops on a Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip Itinerary Lobsters and lighthouses. Stops include Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Portland, Rockport, Camden and the stunning views along the Highway 1 route through Maine. will provide more fun in exchange for your time. Heres what I suggest seeing when stopping in Newburyport for a few hours: Click here to read my full guide to visiting Newburyport! There's a chance of big thunderstorms through summer, and it rains often (though usually not heavily). There are a wide selection of great options. Ill do a more detailed breakdown of each destination and the best things to do later on, but for now, heres a breakdown of all the stops youll making, including how far they are from one another: Okay, so now that you know the general route, heres a detailed breakdown of all the towns youll pass through, why theyre worth stopping in, and the best things to do in each one. ), and is a very short walk to town, or to the ocean. Sweet treats with healthier ingredients and their daily rotation of flavors will amaze and delight you. The line gets particularly long during traditional dining hours, but queueing up for a mid-afternoon meal means less waiting time. The Boston to Maine road trip involves traveling through some of America's coldest destinations so be prepared for this. Kennebunkport is a charming little coastal town in southern Maine that has some great shops, amazing restaurants, awesome things to see and some nice beaches to explore. You can either visit them all before getting into Portland, or depending on your schedule, plan to take a quick drive out to see them during your stay in Portland (if youre staying overnight). This surreal stretch in the Missouri Ozarks is also a top contender for the most scenic road trip in the state. Share your stories, get inspired, and plan your next adventure with us. However, its impossible to know exactly how long your journey will take. One option you might be considering is a Boston to Maine road trip. With 7 miles of hiking trails and peaceful streams, you will find the perfect spot to satisfy your need for nature and a Zen-like moment. The total distance from Boston to Camden, Maine, is 192 miles; if you start in Portland, its just under 82 miles to Camden. Fine dining couldnt be finer than at Novios. On average, parking costs about $20 for the day (many lots didnt offer by-the-hour parking when I visited). The next day follow Route 302 out of Portland . Some other beautiful spots in Camden include: Whether youre 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. ; Winters in Boston can be brutal. Love American food? This hotel is a grouping of individual cottages that are uniquely decorated, and youll get to pick which one you want to stay in when you make your reservation. Youll then want to add a bit on to account for detours you make along the way. Beautiful historic buildings filled with shops carrying items from Maines artists and crafters contribute to the bohemian vibe. Do you need to rent a car to take this amazing drive? Boston is home to many classic, well-known craft breweries. Feel like a kid again at Pirates Cove Adventure Mini Golf. There are tons of small islands in Casco Bay, many of which were previously the homeland of Indigenous people before Europeans arrived. This is your unique itinerary so its up to you to do the research and plan the best adventure. It will vary depending on which part of Boston you start from, where specifically in Maine you end up, which route you take, which sights you want to see, and how far you deviate from the original route. Next, head south past Farmington, Livermore Falls, Mechanic Falls and Casco, before continuing south onto Frye Island to enjoy some time on the shores of Sebago Lake. In Boston the southernmost point on this road trip winter temperatures can drop as low as 40F (-5C). Maine is known for its lobster, and you wont find a better lobster roll than at McLoons Lobster Shack located on Spruce Head Island. But, I personally suggest about 4-5 days if you have an interest in seeing as much as possible on the drive, and also want a day or two to explore Portland. Walk by the Witch House (especially if you visit in the fall). The highway then takes you on through Wiscasset and Thomaston. Sandi loves writing about culture, cuisine, adult beverages, cruising, golf, skiing, road trips, hiking, New England, and photography. If you have a little extra time, detour east along Highway 1 here towards Schoodic Head, where the National Scenic Byway offers more fantastic views. Click here to book your stay at Cliff House in Cape Neddick! A Boston to Maine road trip is the best way to discover the history of America while traveling through stunning scenery. Looking to do on a lighthouse road trip through Maine? Made up of four distinct towns you might hear it called the Yorks' it's the perfect place to begin your tour around Maine. A short road trip from Boston to Boothbay Harbor offers sweeping coastal views, historical points of interest, and plenty of photo opportunities. Morning: Begin early, and drive to Ogunquit (about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Boston, depending on traffic). The important thing is to decide whether you want to visit natural beauty spots, historical monuments, big cities, or a mixture of all three. Long Sands Beach is another popular York beach. Early Evening: Decide if you want to stay in Portland for dinner, or drive to Kennebunkport to explore that town for a bit, and grab dinner. Like the distance, the time it takes you to complete this journey depends on a number of factors. This is another great little area that you can easily see in just a few hours, and is also the perfect place to grab a bite to eat, or pick up a snack for your drive from Boston to Portland. In this area, youll have options from hiking mountains, visiting beaches, exploring the shops, grabbing a bite to eat and seeing one of the best lighthouses in Maine. Here, take Wentworth Road onto ME-16, continuing straight ahead onto Long Falls Dam Road where ME-16 swings round to the west. Jumping forward a few months, there's no avoiding the fact that Maine is very cold in winter. Or head a little further afield to explore the Kennebec Valley, where you can go white water rafting or hike up to Moxie Falls. But with so much to see, and hundreds of half or full-day hikes to choose from, we'd recommend taking at least a week. Hopefully that makes sense! Youll learn about the complicated history of the city and the historical figures that helped to create a more just and equitable future. They've traveled throughout New England, but they really love to explore the mountains and the shorelines of the East Coast! The 100-square-mile (259-square-kilometer) island is home to a few rural towns "up-island" and several - and more popular - historic villages "down-island," including . Pequawket Trail Maine Scenic Byway, Route 113. There is always a line filled with hungry locals and visitors, but it moves quickly. You should also make sure that your car is always fully stocked with plenty of food and water so you know youll be okay if you get stuck. A stay here really is an experience in itself. Bean enthusiast, it is possible to spend an entire day exploring. While you're here you should definitely take a moose-watching tour, where you'll try and track down these gentle giants in the wild. ), 16 Best Stops To Make On A Boston To Stowe, VT Road Trip (2023), 31+ Ways To Have The Best Summer In New England (2023), 21 Best Breweries In Portland, Maine You Have To Check Out In 2023, Best Towns To Stay In On Cape Cod For Every Type Of Traveler (2023). Youll 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. Youll only know how long this trip will take once its done. Charming towns and rocky coasts. 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