Road Trips in Maine | Day Trips in Maine
What Maine is Known For: Stunning coastal landscapes, lighthouses, and fresh seafood.
Maine’s Nickname: The Pine Tree State
Maine’s Official Hobby: Fishing
Maine’s Most Popular State Park: Acadia National Park | Bar Harbor, Maine
The pine tree state offers a variety of opportunities for Maine road trips, from its rugged coastline and charming small towns to scenic forests and historic landmarks. Whether you’re exploring its natural beauty, rich history, or unique cuisine, Maine promises a delightful and memorable journey.
Start your journey in Portland, the state’s largest city known for its vibrant arts scene and historic Old Port district. Visit the Portland Museum of Art, stroll along the Eastern Promenade, and enjoy fresh seafood at Eventide Oyster Co.. Don’t miss the iconic Portland Head Light, one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States.
Drive to the picturesque town of Camden, known for its scenic harbor and historic charm. Explore the Camden Hills State Park, which offers hiking trails and panoramic views of the Penobscot Bay. Visit the Camden Opera House for local performances and enjoy shopping and dining in the quaint downtown area.
Head to the historic town of Bath, located on the Kennebec River. Visit the Maine Maritime Museum to learn about the state’s shipbuilding heritage, explore the historic shipyard, and take a river cruise. Stroll through the charming downtown area, filled with shops and restaurants, and enjoy a meal at Solo Bistro, a local favorite.
Don’t miss the scenic beauty of Acadia National Park, located on Mount Desert Island. Hike the park’s numerous trails, enjoy a scenic drive along the Park Loop Road, and visit the stunning Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast. Explore the nearby town of Bar Harbor, which offers charming shops, restaurants, and access to outdoor activities.
Maine’s scenic byways, such as the Acadia All-American Road, provide breathtaking views and lead to quaint small towns like Blue Hill and Castine. In Blue Hill, visit the Blue Hill Wine Shop and enjoy local music at the Blue Hill Inn. In Castine, explore the Wilson Museum and enjoy a meal at The Manor Inn.
Maine Road Trip Checklist
Before you go on any Maine road trip or Maine day trip, it’s advised you prepare and get the items you need including a phone charging cable, fix-a-flat tire repair, a cozy neck pillow, and more. This all-inclusive guide is a day trip checklist to make sure if your road trip goes a little too long you are still covered. Make sure to check it out!
Before going on any Maine road trip or day trip check out these items. Save money and time buy preparing the items you need instead of buying on the go.
- 60+ Items list long
- Free Shipping with Amazon Prime
- Made specifically for Maine Road Trips!
Top Road Trip Routes in Maine
1. The Coastal Maine Journey
Route: US-1
Cities: Portland, Rockland, Camden
Attractions: Portland Head Light, Farnsworth Art Museum, Camden Hills State Park
2. The Scenic Harbor Drive
Route: ME-27
Cities: Boothbay Harbor, Wiscasset, Damariscotta
Attractions: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay Railway Village, Pemaquid Point Lighthouse
3. The Lakes and Mountains Route
Route: ME-26
Cities: Norway, Bethel, Rangeley
Attractions: Norway Opera House, Sunday River Resort, Rangeley Lake State Park
4. The Acadia Adventure
Route: ME-3
Cities: Ellsworth, Bar Harbor, Southwest Harbor
Attractions: Acadia National Park, Cadillac Mountain, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse
Best Times to Visit
Maine experiences four distinct seasons, offering unique opportunities throughout the year.
- Spring (March to May): Ideal for enjoying mild weather, blooming flowers, and outdoor activities.
- Summer (June to August): Perfect for exploring state parks, attending festivals, and enjoying coastal activities, though it can be busy.
- Fall (September to November): Offers cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, especially in the forests and along scenic byways.
- Winter (December to February): Best for indoor cultural activities and winter sports in the mountains.
Local Cuisine
Maine’s culinary scene features fresh seafood and delicious regional dishes. Here are some must-try foods and restaurant recommendations in smaller towns:
- Lobster Roll: Try this Maine classic at Red’s Eats in Wiscasset, known for its generous portions of lobster.
- Blueberry Pie: Enjoy a slice of this sweet treat at Helen’s Restaurant in Machias.
- Clam Chowder: Savor this hearty dish at The Clam Shack in Kennebunk.
- Fried Clams: Visit Bob’s Clam Hut in Kittery for crispy and delicious fried clams.
- Whoopie Pie: Try this classic Maine dessert at Labadie’s Bakery in Lewiston.
Most Unique Stays in Maine
- The Norumbega Inn
- Location: Camden, Maine
- What makes it unique?: A stunning stone castle offering luxurious rooms, gourmet breakfasts, and beautiful views of Penobscot Bay.
- Chebeague Island Inn
- Location: Chebeague Island, Maine
- What makes it unique?: A charming island inn offering elegant accommodations, fine dining, and a peaceful retreat with stunning ocean views.
- The Cliff House
- Location: Cape Neddick, Maine
- What makes it unique?: A luxurious resort perched on the cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, featuring elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and breathtaking views.
- The Inn on Mount Desert
- Location: Bar Harbor, Maine
- What makes it unique?: A charming inn offering comfortable accommodations, beautiful gardens, and easy access to Acadia National Park.
- The Press Hotel
- Location: Portland, Maine
- What makes it unique?: A boutique hotel housed in the former Portland Press Herald building, offering stylish rooms, a vibrant bar, and a rich history.
Travel Tips
- Explore Local Festivals: Maine hosts numerous festivals, such as the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland and the Common Ground Country Fair in Unity. Plan your trip around these events for a unique experience.
- Scenic Byways: Take advantage of Maine’s scenic byways for a leisurely drive through picturesque landscapes and charming small towns.
- Historic Sites: Many of Maine’s historic sites offer guided tours. Check the schedules and book in advance to make the most of your visit.
- Weather Preparedness: Maine weather can vary greatly. Pack layers and be prepared for changing conditions, especially if traveling through different regions of the state.