Everything You Need To Know To Plan The Perfect Maine Road Trip

With 3,478 miles of shoreline and 542,629 acres of national parks, Maine is a natural beauty that is simply begging to be explored. The beautiful marine scenery, magnificent wildlife, and the delicious seafood that you can find around Maine are simply some of the best in the world. However, if you want to get everything done in the magnificent state, the best way to do so is through a road trip. So, check out this list so you can check everything off.

What to Take

The most important part of your trip is the car. If you would rather not put the miles on your family car, you can rent from a rental car company. Choose a vehicle suited for your trip, prepay for the car to get a better rate, and be sure to rent your car somewhere that is a good distance from the Portland or Bangor airports, as the rental companies around the airports can get pricey. You may also want to rent a hybrid car since you’ll be doing a lot of driving and a hybrid car can save about $5 per gallon of fuel. Pack your car lightly to also save some gas and to provide room for anything you buy on the trip. However, please keep in mind a jacket, as it can get chilly in Maine, and some waterproof clothes for your beachy journey.

Where to Go

The most iconic road trip through Maine takes you along the coastline. If you start in Southern Maine and take US Route 1 up toward Bar Harbor, you’ll see everything on your bucket list. This route provides 65 different lighthouses, the best harvest of lobsters, and amazing scenic views. Southern Maine will give you the sandy beaches that will help relax the beginning of the trip. Then, Mid-Coast Maine will help you take the perfect postcard picture of boating towns, and at the end, you’ll enjoy iconic Bar Harbor and the magnificent sunset at Acadia National Park.

What to Do

If you start in Portland, you’ll love the harbor and the Old Port district, which are perfect for shopping. Here you have historic brick building restaurants, bars, and shops before you check out the Portland Head Lighthouse. From then on, your trip will be filled with natural wonders, so you’ll be able to do anything outdoors. This includes fishing, hiking, kayaking, and surfing. You may also want to visit some of Maine’s famous festivals before you leave to make sure you stop at the right places. At the end of your trip, be sure to check out the sunset in Acadia. Some of the best places to see it are Cadillac Mountain, Seal Harbor, Thunder Hole, and the Bubbles. Any of these spots will give you a magical view of the sunset and create photos and memories to last a lifetime.

Where to Eat

You can’t visit Maine without indulging in some seafood. If you’re a foodie, you’ll enjoy some of the freshest lobster, oysters, and clams in the world. As you travel up Route 1, don’t miss the chance to stop at Bite Into Maine Commissary, Eventide Oyster Co., and C-Ray Lobster. You’ll get a great taste of the state and won’t be disappointed. A road trip through Maine is one of the best adventures you’ll ever take in your life. From the food to the natural wonders, it is simply breathtaking.