maine road trip fall

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Fall Foliage Road Trips

When leaf season rolls around, Mainers and visitors ask only two questions: When are the leaves changing, and where are the best views?

To answer that first question, go to Maine Foliage , the State of Maine website devoted to all things leaf related. Not only does the foliage report update you on how the season is progressing (generally from late September through mid-October), but the fall foliage tracker provides a Maine foliage map that zeros in on specific zones throughout the state, from the farthest north to the deepest south, from ocean to mountain.

As for where to go for leaf peepin...well, we’ve got some suggestions. Specifically, check out the many State and National Scenic Byways, which are wonderful drives during most of the year and especially nice when the leaves turn.

Want foliage with an ocean view?

Consider the DownEast coast and the state’s national park — Acadia National Park. Start by driving the 40-mile Acadia All-American Road . The route is so scenic it was designated an All-American Road — the gold standard of National Scenic Byways. The journey goes on to Mt. Desert Island, through the town of Bar Harbor, and into the primary section of the park. The mountains and hills glow with turning leaves, inviting you onto the park trails and Acadia National Park Carriage Roads for walking and cycling.

Add to your Acadia leaf-peeping experience by branching out on the 29-mile Schoodic National Scenic Byway . This route meanders through the less-visited — but no less spectacular — Schoodic Peninsula section of the park. It’s known for coastal towns, sea views and great bicycling.

For more oceanside, head farther DownEast to the Blackwoods Scenic Byway and the National Scenic Byway — the Bold Coast . The Blackwoods Scenic Byway, at 12.5 miles, ducks between swatches of forest and wild blueberry barrens that blaze with autumn color. The Bold Coast National Scenic Byway, at 125 miles, takes in the most dramatic seacoast in Maine, complete with rocky headlands and quiet fishing communities.

Turn inland, and Maine offers areas packed with forests, teeming with lakes and hills, and bordered by stunning mountains.

The St. John Valley/Fish River National Scenic Byway is a working Byway, but more importantly, it is a cultural journey which traverses along the northern border of Maine through the beautiful St. John Valley and wanders down Route 11 in far-northern Aroostook County. The route rolls over hills by lakes and rivers in the heart of Acadian Maine, settled by early French families. Keep an eye out for moose and deer, who might want to share the road with you. This Cultural Valley is a unique place in America, where communities still celebrate their ancestry, from the Maine Acadians to the Scotch-Irish settlements; from the Native American tribes of the Maliseet and Mi’kmaq to the French-Canadian or Quebecois.

Farther south, rub elbows with Maine’s largest state park, Baxter, as well as its federal national monument, Katahdin Woods and Waters , when touring on the 89-mile Katahdin Woods & Waters National Scenic Byway . Looping through vast tracts of the North Maine Woods, you’ll pass the headwaters of the Penobscot River and enjoy views of Katahdin — Maine’s largest mountain — which is especially glorious in the fall.

The  Million Dollar View Scenic Byway  may be only eight miles long, but the vistas are priceless. On this short segment of Route 1, enjoy unparalleled views of the Chiputneticook lakes, including East Grand, Brackett and Deering. Look beyond for glimpses of Katahdin, Maine’s biggest mountain, in the distance, as well as views of New Brunswick across the nearby border.

For foliage by Maine’s largest lake, check out the Moosehead Lake Scenic Byway . This 59-mile route follows state Route 15 around Moosehead and its adjacent hills. Nearby, the 78-mile Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway follows the highway along parts of the Kennebec River and up old trading routes from western Maine to the Canadian border. The route heads through long-time timber country, with waves of bright autumn leaves lighting up the hills.

To enjoy Maine mountain foliage, steer onto the Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway . This 52-mile route roams through an area sparkling with lakes and girded with peaks. Viewpoints like the popular Height of Land let you gaze out across the surrounding mountain ranges and the lakes beneath — and all those changing leaves.

Businesses & Organizations

• Scenic Byways

Wiscasset, Waterville & Farmington Railway Museum

Step aboard and connect with the soul of Maine.

Phone: 207-882-4193

Website: www.wwfry.org

Address: 97 Cross Road , Alna

Mahoosuc Initiative

The Mahoosuc region stretching from Bethel and Newry in Maine across to Errol, Berlin and Gorham, NH...

Phone: (207) 824-3806

Website: www.mahoosuctouringmap.org

Address: c/o Mahoosuc Land Trust P.O. Box 981 , Bethel

Experience Learn Discover

Phone: (207) 998-4351

Website: www.gemsof26.com

Address: 543 Maine Street , Poland Spring

The Scenic Route Maine Tours

Let us take you on The Scenic Route! We are a LOCAL, family owned, and operated tour company sharing...

Phone: (207) 518-3342

Website: www.thescenicroutemainetours.com

Address: 18 Fern Ln , South Portland

Schoodic National Scenic Byway

The Schoodic National Scenic Byway crosses through Sullivan, Gouldsboro and Winter Harbor in...

Phone: (207) 667-7131

Website: www.schoodicbyway.org

Address: Hancock County Planning Commission 395 State Street , Ellsworth

Acadia All-American Road

Following Route 3, this byway circles the Mt. Desert Island and passes through Acadia National Park....

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10 Can’t-Miss Fall Scenic Drives in Maine

There is almost nowhere that does fall foliage better than New England, especially Maine. Almost 75 percent of the state is forest, with a delightful combination of evergreen and deciduous trees. When the weather starts to cool down, that means that it’s time to hit the road for some autumnal sightseeing.

These top fall scenic drives in Maine offer unique and stunning views of every part of the state, from the coastal south to the isolated north.

Enjoy Fall Colors at Sebago Lake (Route 302)

This beautiful stretch of highway through Southern Maine is all about the lake. Not just one lake — the entire route passes several lakes, starting with Sebago Lake just outside Portland.

The highway will take you past Sebago Lake State Park and Long Lake before continuing off into forests and small New England towns. The trees and lakes make for a beautiful autumn drive, offering plenty of fall foliage to see. You may even spot some animal life, including birds of prey or moose.

Cruise Down State Route 11 (aka Fish River Scenic Byway) for Autumnal Awesomeness

State Route 11 is one of the northernmost highways in Maine, and consequently in the continental United States. The route winds 38 miles between Portage and Fort Kent , offering some beautiful views along the way. Some of the best include scenic overlooks of Mount Katahdin and Eagle Lake.

You won’t see many people along State Route 11, but you may see wildlife such as eagles and moose! This area is a prime space of Acadian culture and history, having been settled by Acadians in the 19th century.

Road Trip Along Route 27 to Cathedral Pines for Fall Foliage

Cathedral Pines might seem like a strange name for a campground, but it will make sense the moment you see it. The pine trees that line the site are truly massive, looking like church spires.

With all the evergreens around, it comes as no surprise that this region — which lies in Carrabassett Valley alongside Bigelow Preserve and Flagstaff Lake — is a popular spot for winter sports. But it is also a gorgeous place to visit in the autumn when you’ll catch glimpse of brilliant fall foliage through the pine trees.

Peep Fall Leaves Along Pequawket Trail Scenic Byway (Route 113)

The Pequawket Trail Scenic Byway is one of Maine’s most rural foliage drives. Following roughly 60 miles through mostly undeveloped land, the byway starts out alongside the White Mountain National Forest before passing the Saco River. You will also catch a glimpse of Mount Cutler as you pass through Hiram.

Though the route winds through mostly rural regions, you will pass through some small towns , making this the perfect weekend trip to enjoy Maine’s fall colors.

Ogle Autumn Views on the Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway (Route 201)

If you’ve been to Northern Maine, you know that once you pass the middle of the state, there aren’t a lot of towns or people around. Luckily, for those looking for an amazing road trip to see the fall foliage, that’s ideal!

The Old Canada Road National Scenic Byway winds roughly 80 miles from Solon to the US/Canada border. But, you can kick off your trip in the quaint town of Waterville and follow Route 201 toward Quebec City. You won’t see a lot of other cars on the road.

This stunning region is French-speaking country, so don’t be surprised if you hear some Quebecois along the way. Though the history of the region is fascinating, the route is best known for having some of the most unique and beautiful scenery in Northern Maine.

Key spots along the route include the Forks , known for its whitewater rafting, and Lake Parlin. Also, you’ll pass the Kennebec River. Though you can spot some beautiful fall foliage from the road, you’ll want to keep your eye out for the Attean Overlook, which offers an unparalleled view of Moose River and the Attean Pond.

Experience the Best Scenic Route this Fall from Ellsworth to Cobscook Bay (Route 1)

Coastal Maine is a fascinating place in the autumn. You will see the trees changing color much later than the rest of the state, thanks to the climate influence of the ocean and coastline. If you want to take a drive down through Acadia in the late fall, you have a treat in store along this coastal route.

This drive offers truly one-of-a-kind views of both the Atlantic coast and the brilliant New England colors. Along the way, you will also enjoy the spectacular scenery of Maine’s charming coastal towns , as well as the Narragaugus River and Gouldsboro Bay.

One thing to bear in mind: Acadia in the fall can be crowded with tourists , so be prepared for a traffic jam!

Take in Maine Fall Colors Along the Acadia All-American Road

The Acadia Byway, otherwise known as the Acadia All-American Road, is one of the most beautiful and unique routes in Maine. This rural stretch offers unparalleled views of old forests and mountains, which are unsurprisingly eye-catching in the autumn.

Along the way, you can also catch glimpses of other beautiful sites throughout Acadia National Park , including Thunder Hole and Sand Beach. Eventually, you will find yourself in Bar Harbor , which is the perfect final stop on this stunning autumn trip through Southern Maine.

Wind Along Western Maine Ski Mountain Route for a Color-Filled Drive

Each region of Maine offers a unique experience when it comes to natural sights. The Western region of the state is often overlooked, but it is worth a visit at any time of the year. This mountainous region offers some of the most stunning natural views in the state — especially during the autumn.

If you are looking for a great road trip through the Maine mountains , the Western Maine Ski Mountain Route could be a great choice. This route starts in Farmington and follows 152 miles through Maine’s popular ski areas , which feature stunning fall colors at this time of the year.

Along the way, you’ll get amazing views of Rangeley Lake State Park, Mount Blue State Park, and the Kennebec River.

Coast Along Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway for Colorful Fall Foliage

Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway is one of Maine’s most well-known road trip destinations, and it’s not hard to see why. This route follows approximately 40 miles through the mountains of Western Maine, winding around Rangeley Lake itself.

This short day trip is rural enough that there is a good chance you might spot a moose wading into the water or crossing the forest. This byway also crosses through the very top of the Appalachian Mountains, which extend all the way down into Georgia.

The most stunning spot is Height of Land, which dramatically increases in elevation until you find yourself looking down at panoramic views of Mooselookmeguntic Lake and the Richardson Lakes. It’s perfect for a quick road trip in the autumn.

Don’t Miss the Million Dollar View Scenic Byway this Fall

The Million Dollar View Scenic Byway’s very name gives it away — this is a road that’s worth traveling. Amazingly, the byway is only 8 miles long, making it an ultra-quick sightseeing trip or an easy detour on a long road trip. However, these 8 miles pack an astonishing number of beautiful overlooks, earning the byway its name and attracting countless visitors each year.

One of the most famous spots along the road is Peekaboo Mountain, which overlooks Grand Lake and the mountains of New Brunswick, Canada. The byway is also well-known as a corridor for animal life, and you may spot bears, moose, deer, or eagles.

Finding The Best Fall Scenic Drives in Maine

Here’s the best secret of taking a scenic drive to see the fall foliage in Maine: there’s no wrong answer. Anywhere you go is bound to offer breathtaking sights of the forests, mountains, coastlines, lakes, and rivers that make Maine famous.

Whether you’re driving along the rural Canadian border or hopping between coastal villages during peak foliage season, you’re bound to find adventure (and plenty of Maine fall colors ) wherever you go.

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

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Your Guide to a Stunning Fall Foliage Road Trip — Maine 2022

A color tour in Maine is what the fall season is all about. Road tripping through the beautiful state with leaves of warm hews dropping around you is magical. 

In this article, we share the best scenic routes for a fall foliage road trip in the state. Here’s the best time to catch the colors at their peak. 

Let’s get rolling! 

What Is Maine Like in the Fall?

Driving through Maine in the fall will introduce you to the brilliant red, orange, brown, and other autumn leaf colors. The state goes all out during this season to make the experience extra special. You’ll likely find apples, pie, and cider along your route.

Apple orchards offer fresh apples, cider, donuts, and more. While the temperatures are dropping in the region, a stop for some hot apple cider, hot chocolate, or mulled wine is a must. 

HOT TIP Looking to plan a fall camping trip? Find out if campgrounds remain open during autumn.

What Is the Best Time to See Fall Colors in Maine? 

The fall colors peak in Maine between the last week of September and the first week of October; the timing can differ slightly from year to year. We recommend keeping an eye on the autumn color map for the state.

We put together a road trip guide that ensures you get the most out of the fall foliage in Maine. So gas up your vehicle, and let’s go!

The Coast of Maine: Rockport to Bar Harbor

About the Route: Driving along Maine’s coast is beautiful and a sure way to eat seafood daily. The rugged and lively coastline from Rockport to Bar Harbor is one of the most epic places in the state to be in the autumn. You’ll see the colors reflecting in the Atlantic Ocean and its bays. 

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: There are several small towns on the route to stop for food, shopping, and seaside rest stops. Take your time to soak them all in.

Once you get to Bar Harbor, we highly recommend spending a day or two in Acadia National Park . The park is gorgeous during the peak of the fall colors, and the unspoiled landscape is worth the drive. 

Castine and Penobscot Bay Loop

About the Route: The Castine and Penobscot Bay Loop goes through small fishing towns. The 79-mile loop makes for a lovely day trip with stops along the way for seafood, picturesque views and architecture, and a glimpse of the coastline. 

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: History buffs will love Castine. It’s one of the oldest communities in Maine and a great place to learn about the northeastern culture. 

The Blue Hill Peninsula has several towns on the route that are worth a stop. And we recommend the Dice Head Light at the mouth of the Penobscot River, a show stopper with the fall foliage as a backdrop.

Bold Coast National Scenic Byway

About the Route: The Bold Coast National Scenic Byway is a 125-mile loop. It goes along Maine’s rugged northern coast, setting off from Bar Harbor. You’ll get to see a lot of lighthouses and colorful trees on the route.

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: Be sure to stop and see the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse in Lubec. It’s the first place that the sunlight touches U.S. soil in the morning. In addition, there are exhibits in the visitor’s center that are worth checking out. 

Roosevelt Campobello International Park is another stop we recommend. It houses a historic cottage, the summer home of President Roosevelt, and flower gardens.

Acadia National Park

About the Route: Acadia National Park stands out because of its unspoiled beauty and wilderness. The fall is one of the best times to visit for vibrant red and orange leaves. We recommend spending a full day in the park. Then, you can take a slow scenic drive and take short hikes. 

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: Acadia National Park is about 50,000 acres with various sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. In addition, there are 33 miles of scenic roadways and more than 150 miles of hiking trails. You can easily spend a week here and not see it all. 

We recommend starting with the east side of Mount Desert Island, which is the most popular part of the national park. It’s a 27-mile loop. 

HOT TIP SPOILER: Acadia makes our list of the 5 Best Autumn RV Destinations — find out what the other 4 are!

Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway Loop

About the Route: The Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway Loop is 35 miles. It takes you through mountains and passes lakes like Upper Richardson Lakes. The scenery during the fall is breathtaking, and you’re likely to get glimpses of wildlife. There are also cute New England villages to take a break along the route. 

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: Height of Land is one of the best parts of this route. You can see lakes, mountains, and the White Mountains in New Hampshire. But best of all, you’re surrounded by forests with leaves changing color.

We also recommend visiting Mooselookmeguntic Lake. It’s in the town of Oquossoc. A great way to experience autumn here is by renting a boat and seeing the trees from the water.

Bangor to Houlton, Maine

About the Route: Bangor to Houlton is the most northern route. It’s about 214 miles, and there’s plenty to see. However, the peak for fall colors gets to Houlton fairly early, so be sure to plan your road trip accordingly. If you take more than a few days for the route, we recommend traveling north to south to ensure you see the best foliage.

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: The route from Bangor to Houlton is a region known for potatoes, so be sure to order them at a local restaurant. 

There are several towns to stop at on the route. We recommend pulling off on side roads to explore a little deeper into Maine’s forests.

Also, ask locals where you might spot a moose. A fall color tour is also an ideal time to see wildlife since fewer tourists are around this time of year. 

Western Maine Fryeburg-Bethel Loop

About the Route: The Western Maine Fryeburg-Bethel Loop is approximately 120 miles. It’s a beautiful part of the state and a great place to stop for apples or do some antique shopping. In addition, the historic town of Fryeburg is the home of a large fall country fair. 

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: Fryeburg’s historic district is the biggest draw to this loop. You can visit its 11 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. It also has a dozen parks you can walk through and witness autumn unfold. 

The Scottish and Irish Merchant is a recommended stop in Bethel, and you will also find antique stops in the town.

Belgrade Drive

About the Route: The Belgrade Drive begins in Augusta and goes through the Winthrop Lakes and Belgrade Lakes regions. It’s about 120 miles long. You’ll get to experience stunning fall foliage in and around the small towns on the route.

Top Things to See or Places to Stop: Augusta is the capital of Maine and holds a lot of history. It’s worth spending a half to full-day walking around to see the architecture. You may also want to check out the Maine State Museum in Augusta. 

Another recommended stop on the route is a 1754 National Historic Landmark called Old Fort Western . It’s in Augusta on the Kennebec River. It makes for a beautiful setting, especially during the fall.

Is Maine a Good Place to Visit in the Fall? 

Maine is one of the best places in the U.S. to visit in the fall. The state is full of forests with leaves that change into brilliant colors. And, with its coastline, rivers, and lakes, you’re guaranteed an opportunity to see the reflections of the fall foliage in crisp northern waterways.

We highly recommend visiting Maine during the fall. Besides the beautiful trees, it’s also a time of year with fewer crowds. So you can get around to all the hot spots without waiting in line or getting stuck in traffic.

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Fall Foliage Maine Road Trip for Leaf Peeping in New England

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: December 4, 2023

When is the BEST time to see fall colors in Maine?

A lot of people will tell you that fall is the best time to visit Maine so I’m lucky that I got to road trip around the coast of Maine in autumn for a whole month.

The best month to see the fall foliage in New England area is October.

Of course, the time to see peak fall colors varies each year but the first two weeks of October are a good bet for seeing peak autumn foliage in Maine .

If you are planning on driving to Maine and have some flexibility then you should check the fall foliage maps . There you can find a fall color map indicating what percentage of fall leaves have turned. They provide a weekly fall foliage report to help you best plan the timing of your trip to Maine.

Check out our list of best places for fall colors in the USA .

New England fall foliage reflection in the water – a beautiful mirror image

READ MORE: Portland Maine 10+ Best Things to Do & See

Fall foliage brings intense shades of yellow and orange contrasting with green leaves in Maine

You’ll notice on any foliage map that the coastal region is the last area in Maine to reach peak fall colors .

Typically the northern inland areas of Maine reach peak colors first and gradually it shifts south, except for the coast of Maine.

While visiting midcoast Maine be sure to visit the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse – wonderful views of Penobscot Bay in the fall.

And it’s a cool hike out to the lighthouse via the one mile breakwater made of granite.

Fall scenery in Maine – a barn and farmland plus colorful blueberry fields are not uncommon

How to get to Maine

The biggest airport in Maine, Portland International Jetport, is located just a few miles from downtown Portland, on the southern coast of Maine.

The airport code is PWM. The major American airlines flying into Portland Maine are: American, Delta, and United.

If you are driving from New York City it’s 315 miles to Portland Maine, about a 5 hour drive. And driving from Philadelphia to Portland is 400 miles and takes about 6 hours 30 minutes.

Boston to Portland Maine is 110 miles and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes to drive.

Maine in the fall with leaves starting to change color and boats in the harbor

Maine fall color road trip also features brightly colored red, orange, and yellow blueberry fields

Where to Stay in Maine

I think the midcoast area is the best place to stay in Maine because then you have the option to travel in four different directions – of course if you go east it is via boat! If you are flying into Portland (PWM) then it may make sense to stay in Portland for a night, then head north.

Check prices and availability Hotels in Midcoast Maine (including Belfast, Camden, Lincolnville, Rockland, Searsport)

Find the latest deals on Hotels in Bar Harbor Maine (Acadia National Park)

Get the latest rates and deals on Hotels in Portland Maine

Maine fall foliage in beautiful Belfast looks brilliant against the blue sky and a weathered building

How Many Days for a Maine Road Trip?

You can do a lot on a long weekend road trip in Maine. But how long you spend in Maine depends on where you want to explore.

If you want to visit both coastal and inland areas, then you need at least 3 to 4 days in Maine but preferably a week.

Although, if you just want to see the fall colors and you are pressed for time you could do a 1 or 2 day road trip to Maine, but why rush?

A dog enjoys a swim in the pond while waiting to get in the canoe for an autumn paddling trip

Many people focus on a Maine coastal road trip because of the beautiful scenery, picturesque small towns and harbors, abundant seafood, boating opportunities, and the ease of planning and organizing such a trip.

Highway 1 goes from Fort Kent Maine all the way down the east coast to Key West Florida !

A dog gets to play in the pond with a backdrop of beautiful fall leaves reflecting on the water

Distances and Driving Times

As you can see from the information below, the driving times for the more scenic coastal route on Hwy 1 will take a little longer.

I much prefer a slower but scenic road trip than taking the interstate highways.

But if you are short on time or want to stop in to visit Augusta, the capital of Maine, it makes sense to take interstate I-95 rather than scenic highway 1.

New England fall road trip – Maine colors

Distances and driving times for Maine road trip

• Bar Harbor to Rockland Maine via Hwy 1 – 85 miles – driving time 2 hours
• Bar Harbor to Portland Maine via I-95/I-295 – 175 miles – driving time 3 hours
• Bar Harbor to Portland Maine via Hwy 1 – 165 miles – driving time 3 hours 30 minutes
• Belfast to Acadia National Park – 55 miles – driving time 1 hour 15 minutes
• Belfast to Camden Maine – 18 miles – driving time 25 minutes
• Belfast to Rockland Maine – 25 miles – driving time 45 minutes
• Portland to Belfast Maine (via Augusta) – 100 miles – driving time 1 hour 45 minutes
• Portland to Belfast Maine via Hwy 1 – 105 miles – driving time 2 hours 15 minutes
• Portland to Acadia National Park via Hwy 1 – 165 miles – driving time 3 hours 30 minutes

Bright red leaves of the Burning Bush – scientific name: euonymus alatus

Best Places to see the Fall Foliage in Maine

Some of the best places to see fall foliage in Maine are along the water, small lakes or ponds provide stunning reflections of the fall leaves.

As you can see in my photos from a kayaking trip at Knights Pond, near Belfast Maine, the pond reflects a mirror image of the autumn foliage.

Kayaking with fall foliage and the incredible reflection of the trees on the water

Another great place for leaf peeping is up on a mountaintop. Go hiking up the Scenic Lookout at Camden State Park for panoramic views.

Or take the scenic drive to Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park or hike Gorham Mountain Trial .

Note that fog and clouds are something to consider with New England climate, so check the weather reports for Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.

I thought I would get to see the beautiful views from  Cadillac Mountain, but clouds totally obscured the view.

I took a hike around Jordan Pond instead and consoled myself with a delicious lunch of scallops and popovers at Jordan Pond House restaurant.

Fall foliage in New England also means brightly colored blueberry bushes

What else is there to do in Maine?

Plenty! Maine is wonderful for outdoor activities from fishing and boating to hiking and mushroom foraging. Fall is the perfect time to sample some of Maine’s delicious apple cider.

After staying in midcoast Maine I wrote about all the things to do in Belfast Maine , which also includes several fun day trips along the coast.

Rowing at Belfast Harbor in Maine during October fall foliage season

There are lots of places to see on a coastal road trip with all the quaint small towns along the way. You can also go camping or hiking at Camden Hills State Park .

Explore beautiful Acadia National Park near Bar Harbor. You’ll find there are lots of fun things to do in Maine while on your fall foliage tour.

A large gray wasp’s nest hanging from a tree during autumn in Maine

Maine road trip in fall, sighting of a weathered barn and a tree with bright red leaves

Fall in Maine brings beautiful colors to the New England coast – red, green, and brilliant yellow leaves

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Travel Wiser

Maine in the fall – 5 day road trip itinerary.

Maine , the USA’s northeastern-most state, is well known for its moose, its lobster and its gorgeous fall foliage. This road trip itinerary will take you from Bangor to Portland via Moosehead Lake and Acadia National Park , taking in the best of Maine. Time to fall in love with the state’s forest-covered hills, shimmering lakes and rugged coasts, quaint villages and great seafood restaurants!

Maine road trip itinerary highlights:

• Moosehead Lake forests and moose safari
• Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island, from Southwest Harbor to Cadillac Mountain
• Camden and Camden Hills State Park

This itinerary is not limited to the fall, but I do think that’s the best time to visit. Maine even has a special fall foliage website , to time it just right. Summers are also lovely, but tend to be busy. Be aware that from late October a lot of restaurants and some hotels close for the season, especially along the coast.

Maine day 1: Moosehead Lake

Fly to Bangor , pick up your rental car and head inland to Moosehead Lake . It’s a 1,5 hour drive through rolling hills and atmospheric all-American villages, with white wooden churches, New England-style houses, and a slightly eerie quietness. Stop for a lakeside lunch at The Lakeshore House in Monson, a friendly pub with great views.

We had planned to stay in a cabin near Greenville , the gateway to the Moosehead Lake area. Unfortunately, a severe storm some days before had knocked out the electricity at our cabin so we ended up having to book a last-minute alternative. One of the few options left was Gray Ghost Camps near Rockwood, a well-located but otherwise rather average collection of cabins. The best accommodations fill up fast around Moosehead Lake so booking in advance is recommended.

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Spend the afternoon exploring the area, by car and on foot. We did part of the Little Moose Pond Trail , a nice hiking trail on the western side of Moosehead Lake. For more trails, check out the useful AllTrails website or app.

Evenings here are quiet. The liveliest place might be Rockwood Bar& Grill , where a lot of locals hang out. They serve basic but decent food in a friendly setting.

Maine day 2: moose safari and Southwest Harbor

One of our reasons for coming to Maine was to see moose, and if like us you are only around for a short time I highly recommend joining a moose safari . You might bump into one driving around on your own, but you’re much more likely to see them with an experienced guide who knows their favorite hangouts. The best times to see moose in Maine are at dawn and dusk, when they are most active, from mid-May to July and again in the fall. Fall is the breeding season, and this is when the impressive antlers of the bull moose are fully developed.

We got up at the break of dawn for a private tour with Northwoods Outfitters . During the warmer months, when moose like to hang out in the water to cool down, while eating aquatic plants, moose safaris can happen by canoe. At other times, you will go by car, and I have to admit I was happy to stay nice and warm inside! Sometimes your guide will let you approach them on foot. Our knowledgeable guide, Mike, said he encounters moose on most outings, but it’s always a question of luck. Lucky for us, very soon we came across an adult female, casually standing by a stream and not caring about us at all. After that we drove around several hours more, but unfortunately we never found our bull moose…

By the end, we were starving. Mike recommended breakfast at Auntie M’s , a cosy old-fashioned café (cash only). Because rain was predicted for the rest of the day, we decided to continue towards the coast and Acadia National Park, but if the weather had been better (and we would have been in the cabin of our choice) I would definitely have stayed another day! Besides the forests and waters around Moosehead Lake, nearby Baxter State Park is surely also worth a visit.

On your way to Mount Desert Island , stop for a quick lunch of delicious Maine lobster and crab rolls at Dorr Lobster Seafood Market , a little shack by the road just before Ellsworth. Stretch your legs with a short stroll through pretty downtown Ellsworth .

If you go to Acadia National Park between May and October, you will need to pay an entrance fee. A 30$ private vehicle pass is valid for 7 days and can be purchased at the Thompson Island Information Centre (among others), or online . We drove on to Southwest Harbor to check in at our B&B, The Birches . The owner is very friendly and helpful with information about the island, and rooms are pleasant and spacious, some with ocean views. Breakfast, although rather on the sweet side, is a real treat.

Spend the afternoon exploring the southwestern part of Mount Desert Island. Try the short but beautiful Wonderland Trail , leading through flat woodlands to the rocky shoreline, with tide pools to explore at low tide. Next, stop at the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse . Take the stairs leading down for some nice views. Bass Harbor itself is also very scenic in the late afternoon light.

Have dinner at Red Sky in Southwest Harbor. They serve tasty food in a stylish dining room, it’s a little more upscale than most Maine restaurants but still very casual. I can highly recommend the white wine steamed mussels!

Maine day 3: Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor

After breakfast, head to Somesville , the oldest settlement on the island. The tiny village features a small museum and a picturesque footbridge which might just be the most photographed spot on Mount Desert Island.

Keep driving round Somes Sound to the Gatehouse , from where you can go on a hike along the historic Acadia carriage roads and bridges built by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr in the early 20 th century. I personally prefer narrower, more natural trails, but it is part of the Acadia experience.

The only restaurant within Acadia National Park proper is Jordan Pond House , famous for its popovers (puffy, hollow rolls, an American version of Yorkshire pudding) and a place where almost EVERYONE visiting the park stops by (whether that’s a good or bad thing, I’ll let you decide). As we were there just after it had closed for the season, we decided to go to Bar Harbor for lunch instead.

Bar Harbor used to be an elite summer colony for the rich and famous in the decennia around 1900. A catastrophic fire in 1947 burned down a big part of the palatial summer houses and grand hotels, and thousands of acres of forest. Nature has rebounded since (and is even more varied than before), but although Bar Harbor is still a popular summer destination, it is a much simpler place now. A few historic houses survived the fire, most are now B&Bs. One of those is the Elmhurst Inn , our accommodation for that evening, a little old-fashioned but friendly and comfortable. Some rooms have fireplaces and great breakfasts are served in a pretty breakfast room.

Spend the afternoon leisurely driving the Park Loop Road , which is absolutely wonderful outside the high season (when it can get very busy and you might want to find quieter alternatives). You’ll come across plenty of viewpoints and hiking trails. Stop at Beaver Dam Pond and/or Jordan Pond to see if any of the furry rodents are around. They are mostly nocturnal, but fall is when they are most active, so you can get lucky. We only saw their lodges and other signs of their presence.

Don’t finish your loop without a drive up to the top of Cadillac Mountain . It is the highest point of the island and allows for sweeping 360° views. End the day with a cosy seafood dinner at Galyn’s in Bar Harbor.

Maine day 4: Camden Hills and Freeport

Before leaving Mount Desert Island, go for a last morning hike at Indian Point . Make a stop on the way at the small Acadia National Park Pond, across the road from Eagle Lake, to see if there is any early morning beaver activity. At Indian Point there is a short, quiet trail through Blagden Preserve , with nice views over the bay. Although it’s not in the National Park proper, it’s a good place to see birds and deer. Sometimes you can also spot seals from here.

Next, head back to the mainland and on to the pretty town of Camden , about 1,5 hours. It is a scenic road with plenty of vistas over Penobscot Bay and forested hills. Camden is centered around a picturesque harbor. Have lunch at Marriner’s Grill , a quaint luncheonette overlooking the harbor from the top of a small waterfall, with snug old-fashioned booths inside if it’s cold.

After lunch, double back a little for a hike in Camden Hills State Park . There are several trails of varying length, all through pretty forest and some leading to viewpoints. If you have the time, I recommend spending the night in Camden. You could splash out on a stay at the pretty Camden Harbour Inn , which is supposed to have an excellent restaurant, too. We decided to drive on to the Kendall Tavern Inn in Freeport instead, to reduce our driving time the next day. Freeport’s main attraction are its outlet stores, and there is not much else to do. We did have a pretty good dinner at the cheerful  Broad Arrow Tavern .

Maine day 5: Portland

We had an early afternoon flight out of Portland International jetport, which gave us just enough time to explore some of the town. We arrived early for a sinfully self-indulgent breakfast at The Holy Donut . It’s very popular so be prepared to wait in line, but it’s worth it!

Afterwards, go for a digestive stroll around the Old Port neighborhood and the harbor with its wharves and docks. If you’re staying longer, check out this 36 hours in Portland  city guide for more tips. You can fly out of Portland airport, or continue driving to Boston and beyond.

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Day 1: arrival Bangor, hike and stay near Moosehead Lake

Day 2: moose safari, drive to mount desert island and explore southwest harbor, day 3: acadia national park, park loop road, cadillac mountain and bar harbor, day 4: camden and camden hills state park, stay in camden or freeport, day 5: portland, departure, share this:, i hope you enjoyed this post you can share your thoughts below: cancel reply.

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Elizabeth Adventures

Sharing my favorite trails, gear and tips along the way.

Fall in Maine: The Ultimate Family-Friendly Road Trip Itinerary

New England is known for its vibrant fall colors, but did you know the best family-friendly road trip is through Maine? The state has so much to offer from fall festivals and activities to endless roads and trails lined with vibrant reds and yellows in the month of October.

Below I’ll share the perfect 3 day road trip through Maine, filled with fall activities, good food, all the fall foliage and when the best time to go is!

*This post is sponsored by Tripscout and Visit Maine.*

Table of Contents

Things to Know About Maine

Maine is the easternmost state in the United States, sitting on the border of New Hampshire, Canada and the Atlantic Ocean. This means Maine is the first in the United States to see the sun rise everyday, so fitting in a sunrise adventure is a must! It is also the 9th least populated state so you can explore without ever feeling overcrowded.

The state of Maine is best known for its jagged, rocky coastline, lush forested interior, abundant waterways, wild blueberries and endless seafood. The state is also full of rich history, having been founded as a state back in 1820!

When to go to Maine?

If you’re looking for fun fall October activities, there is no wrong time to visit the state of Maine. You can see some of the amazing fall activities in the guide below to help plan when you want to take your road trip.

If chasing fall foliage is your goal, the first two weeks will give you the best chance to see peak colors. Every year will be different though depending on the fall temperatures and rainfall knocking down leaves. Cooler temperatures in October mean the leaves will change earlier in the month, while warmer temperatures will bring later colors, even into the third week.

You can use this fall foliage tracker to get up to date fall color information. ( https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs/projects/fall_foliage/report/index.shtml )

The Ultimate Maine Itinerary

Below I’ll be sharing a day-by-day breakdown of activities, fun places to eat and bonus stops along the way! This will take a lot of planning out of your trip so you can just enjoy your time exploring all Maine has to offer in the fall.

Head to Treworgy Family Orchards for a fun fall day at the pumpkin patch! They have a corn maze, apple orchards, pumpkin patch, tractor ride, farm animal feedings and playground for kids to enjoy. Bonus is everyone that does the corn maze gets a free ice cream cone at the end!

Other Activities in Bangor:

• Downtown Bangor Fall Sidewalk Art Festival
• Downtown trick or treat- the last Saturday before Halloween
• Bangor City Forest for a hike
• Maine Discovery Museum

Where to Eat in Bangor:

• Coach House
• Timber Kitchen
• Brewer Nutrition
• The Tarrantine Inn

Where to Stay in Bangor :

Comfort Inn and Suite s: This is where I stayed. It has a large continental breakfast, was located near the highway and provided me with a pack and play.

The Tarrantine Inn : a historic Victorian bed and breakfast, walking distance to downtown and a restaurant.

Residence Inn by Marriott : a block from the waterfront trails, rooms with kitchens for families and a pool.

Explore more of Bangor or enjoy a hike on the Bangor City Forest boardwalks before heading over to Ellsworth. The drive from Bangor to Ellsworth is a fall dream. The highways and roads are lined with deciduous trees, so they are full of color in the fall.

Once you arrive in Ellsworth, head to the Downeast Scenic Railroad for a fun, fall-themed train ride! During October, the train is decorated for fall and stops at a small pumpkin patch where riders get to pick out a pumpkin to take home. The staff will hand out snacks and pumpkin decorating stickers for kids to use the remainder of the ride. It’s the perfect fall family activity! You can purchase tickets on site, but I’d recommend booking in advance here to make sure you get a seat.

After the train ride, head back to the charming town of Ellsworth to explore the antique shops, wander the art galleries, take in the historic brick buildings and enjoy time down by the river. You can either stay in an accommodation in Ellsworth or Bar Harbor as they are only 30 minutes apart. Depending on where you wish to stay, enjoy an evening around Ellsworth or drive into Bar Harbor and walk downtown.

Other Activities in Ellsworth:

• Visit the L.L. Bean outlet store for some family gear
• Picnic at Ellsworth Harbor Park
• Visit the Green Lakes National Fish Hatchery
• Enjoy the beaches around Branch and Graham Lake

Where to Eat in Ellsworth :

• The Steamy Buddha
• Provender Kitchen and Bar
• Union River Lobster Pot
• Fogtown Brewing

Where to Stay in Ellsworth :

Lucerne Inn : located between Bangor and Ellsworth, this 200-year-old inn has historic charm, a restaurant and pool.

Under Canvas Acadia : A unique glamping experience for the entire family with dining options available. Tents can accommodate 2-7 depending on size booked.

Hampton Inn : located in Ellsworth, this hotel has a continental breakfast, a 5 minute drive to downtown, pack and play available, and a pool.

Day Three :

Spend the day adventuring around Acadia National Park chasing the fall foliage. Acadia is a family friendly park, with a lot of easy, short trails for kids. If you want to beat the crowds, start your day early or aim to go on a weekday. Fall colors tend to draw in a lot of crowds. Entry tickets can be purchased at the park entrance, but be sure to pay the national park fee ahead of time to make entry easier. You can purchase a pass in advance, here .

Here are the best family friendly trails in the park:

• Jordan Pond: 3.1 miles round trip
• Ocean Path Trail: 4.5 -/+ miles round trip (thunder hole is a must-stop)
• South Bubble: 1.2 miles round trip 
• Cadillac Mountain: .5 miles round trip ( reservation required )
• Eagle Lake: 5 -/+ miles round trip
• Jesup Path: 2.2 miles round trip
• Great Head Trail: 1.6 miles round trip
• Ships Harbor Trail: 1.4 miles round trip
• Wonderland Trail: 1.3 miles round trip
• Little Hunters Beach Trail: .6 miles round trip

Sand Beach is a perfect spot to lay out a blanket and let the kids play in the sand while you enjoy the views of the rocky coast and Atlantic Ocean. The Wild Gardens of Acadia are another great spot to enjoy the fall colors and have a family picnic.

Other Activities in Bar Harbo r:

• Mount Desert Half Marathon (October 20th, 2024)
• Sightseeing boat tour
• Bike rentals to get around the park and town
• Ghost Tour Bar Harbor (age 6+)
• Island Arts Octoberfest Craft Fair
• Acadia Night Sky Festival

Where to Eat in Bar Harbor :

• Side Street Cafe
• Thrive Juice Bar & Kitchen
• Merchant & Frye
• Royal Indian
• Cafe This Way
• Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium

Where to Stay in Bar Harbor :

Port Inn : perfectly located to walk to downtown Bar Harbor and avoid paying to park, quick drive into Acadia, continental breakfast and pack and play available. (This is where I stayed)

Ivy Manor Inn : located in the heart of downtown, charming historic building and lively outdoor bar space with concerts and bonfires.

Bar Harbor Inn & Spa : located in downtown Bar Harbor, ocean/harbor views, restaurants, pool and a full service spa for a more relaxing stay in town.

Bonus Days :

If you’re able to add on to this three-day itinerary, I’d recommend one to two more days in Bar Harbor to explore Acadia freely! I spent one extra day here and would have loved to see even more of the park.

Another option is to drive three hours south to Portland, Maine’s largest city. Portland is a unique city experience with its coastal ports and old town charm. Below is a list of places to stay, eat and activities in and around Portland if you’re able to add it as a stop on your road trip!

Activities in Portland:

• Children’s Museums and Theater of Maine
• Walk the Black Cove Park Trail
• Explore the Old Port neighborhood shops and historic brick buildings
• Hike Fore River Sanctuary
• Scenic Drive to view lighthouse: Bug Light, Spring Point Ledge, Portland Head
• Deering Oaks Park: playground, pond, pool
• Alewive’s Brook Farm pumpkin patch

Places to Eat in Portland:

• Monte’s Fine Food
• Gorgeous Gelato
• Fore Street  
• Central Provisions
• The Highroller Lobster Co
• Artemisia Cafe

Places to Stay in Portland:

Port Oasis Airbnb : Located in the Parkside neighborhood with quick freeway access, walking distance to Deering Oaks Park, feels like home with a pack and play and high chair available, in-apartment yoga studio and quaint outdoor patio.

Hyatt Place Portland : Located in the heart of the Old Port neighborhood, has continental breakfast, views of the city and bay and a pool.

Portland Harbor Hote l: Located in the heart of the Old Port neighborhood, has views of the city and bay, a quiet courtyard with a bonfire pit and restaurant.

Maine is an amazing state full of rich history, unique landscapes and countless fall activities. You can learn more about the state and what to do at VisitMaine.com . It is an amazing resource to gather ideas. If you use this guide to plan the ultimate fall road trip through Maine, be sure to come back and let me know in the comments!

Happy Travels,

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New England Wanderlust

Connecticut , Fall , Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Vermont  ·  June 7, 2023

The PERFECT New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary: 3, 5, 7, 10 & 12 Day Options! (2024)

There’s a reason why New England is world-famous for fall foliage, and if you’re looking to plan the most amazing New England fall road trip, you’ve come to the right place! I’ve been traveling throughout this region for over 15 years, and have done quite a few fall foliage road trips and even more fall getaways. It took me a while, but I’ve finally put together the perfect itinerary for you based on real experience.

This post details the best places to visit in New England during fall foliage season that are worth the hype, the best times to plan your road trip, and also, which places may not be worth your time. So, you can rest assured that you’re truly seeing the best of the best with my itinerary.

This itinerary is also geared toward first-timers and those looking to find the best foliage spots . If you’ve experienced New England in the fall season before, many of these locations and tips may already be familiar. However, I’ve also sprinkled in some insider tips, so it’s still definitely worth reading 😉

During this trip, prepare to see idyllic countryside landscapes, blazing fall color, beautiful covered bridges, charming towns, general stores, epic overlooks and hiking trails, and so much more. Basically, you’ll get your fill of New England charm right from the start, and it won’t stop until the trip is over. Sound good? Then let’s get started!

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 .

Tips For Planning A Trip To New England In The Fall

There are some important things to know before you begin to plan your perfect New England fall road trip, so let’s get that out of the way first 😉

The first thing you need to know is that foliage will peak in the northern areas first, then peak in the southern areas later . For that reason, I recommend that you start in the north if you can, especially for a longer trip, but it’s not always necessary for shorter trips.

If you’re planning a bucket list 2-week adventure, starting in the north is a good call because peak foliage can begin to diminish quickly, depending on the season and climate patterns. However, if you’re traveling for closer to a week, this won’t be as important.

I go into peak foliage times in each region in a bit, so definitely be sure to read that through, too!

Another important thing to know is that you should anticipate all kinds of weather. I’ve done many fall road trips through this region, and have had warm, sunny days, and trips where it rained almost every single day. I’ll go more into what to pack for this trip at the end of the post to help you prepare, but this is a good thing to be aware of.

Also, book in advance . I can’t stress this enough. Hotels and accommodations book out well in advance for fall foliage season in prime areas, and these prime areas are where you’ll be heading! If possible, begin to book your hotels at least 6 months in advance, but even 8 months is better. For reference, while I began to plan my Vermont fall road trip for the 2023 season, my favorite place to stay in Stowe, VT was fully booked during peak foliage weeks – in FEBRUARY. Yep, February.

Offline Google Maps! I can’t tell you how important this is! Even as recent as a fall 2022 road trip, I barely had service through much of New Hampshire and Vermont. I spent a lot of time just driving around hoping my service would come back, or asking people for directions the old-fashioned way. I usually offline maps, but totally forgot that trip, and it was a harsh reminder that this is a must-do.

Lastly, prepare to pay . Yes, the sad truth is that peak foliage season in New England is expensive, and it won’t be your most budget-friendly trip ever. There are ways to keep costs down, and I’ll go more into that later in the post as well, but generally speaking, this is an expensive time to visit New England – at least, where the foliage is the best 😉

What Is The Best Time To Visit New England For Fall Color?

In a nutshell, the last week of September, or the first week of October. However, it does vary depending on where you’re heading.

As mentioned before, the colors will begin to change in the northern regions first, and then the southern regions will follow later. Most people will choose to visit Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont during their New England fall road trip (and spoiler alert: this is also where I’ll be suggesting you go!), so this timeframe works very well for these areas.

The central part of Vermont will often peak right around Indigenous People’s weekend in October, and for a getaway to popular towns like Stowe and Woodstock, this is the perfect weekend to plan your trip.

Massachusetts often peaks right around Indigenous People’s weekend as well, with southern MA peaking a week or so later.

The greater Boston area, and Connecticut will peak mid-late October, depending on the year.

How Many Days Do You Need In New England In The Fall?

The great thing about New England in the fall is that you can easily do a weekend getaway and still pack a lot in, or you can plan an epic 12 day road trip for the ultimate adventure. And either way, it’s going to be incredibly memorable.

If you’re coming in from a distance, especially if you’re flying in, I would say 10 days is a great option, 12 days is even better, and 7 days is also wonderful. Of course, with 12 days, you’ll be able to see so much or plan extra time in some places. But even with 7 days, you’ll get to see quite a bit.

If you’re local to New England, and don’t have 10 days, 7 days is again a nice sweet spot. 5 days will also work in this case. And, as mentioned, even a weekend away will allow you to experience some of the best this region has to offer in the fall season.

The great thing about the best places for fall foliage are located in some of the smallest states, so you can cover a lot of ground in a short amount of time.

Best Places To See On A New England Fall Road Trip

While every New England state has something special to offer during fall foliage season, for the purpose of seeing the absolute best spots, I recommend sticking to Maine , Massachusetts , New Hampshire and Vermont . And flying into Boston.

Because these areas offer the most spectacular displays of foliage, most picturesque scenery, tons of things to do, and they’re all reasonable close to one another, allowing you to maximize your time.

Here’s why I don’t necessarily recommend states like Connecticut or Rhode Island if you have less than 10 days – they’re further away from the best places to see in the fall.

I truly love every single New England state, and I do really enjoy Connecticut in the fall. However, it’s so far west that you’ll spend more time driving to get there, and possibly forgoing some really spectacular places in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Vermont.

If you have 10 days or more for a New England fall road trip, then I would highly suggest you consider adding in the Litchfield Hills regions of Connecticut , which you’ll see I included in my itinerary. It’s also very close to The Berkshires region, so you can combine it with that part of the trip, depending on how much time you have. However, with less than 10 days, I personally don’t feel like it’s worth it. Especially for first-timers.

If you’ve already seen some of the places I’m recommending in this post, then definitely try to swing over to Connecticut and experience a new area during the fall!

If you have less than 10 days, you may even want to focus all your time on Vermont and New Hampshire. The reason for this is because some of the best places for fall foliage in Maine are further north. I think places like Acadia National Park are very worth seeing (and you’ll see I’ve incorporated it into some of my itineraries!). However, if you prefer a slower pace and less driving, Vermont and New Hampshire are the absolute best places to see .

Some Things To Know About My Itineraries

They all begin in Boston , assuming that’s where most people will fly into if visiting from a distance. If you fly into a different airport, or are driving in, you can easily adjust your plans as needed.

They’re done in true road trip style , meaning there’s a lot of driving, and mostly 1-night stays. There are some places I recommend 2 nights in, but you can adjust this based on your preferences. If you want to stay longer in one place, definitely go for it!

I give you options! Of course, I stand by all my suggestions ☺️ However, I know everyone has different travel styles and speeds, so I encourage you to to tailor this to what you think you’ll enjoy the most. I’ve given you suggestions on how to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences.

10 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary From Boston

Okay, let’s get into my perfect New England fall road trip itinerary options! We’re beginning with my suggestions for an incredible 10 day adventure.

10 Day Road Trip Overview

Day 1 : Arrival In Boston Day 2 : Explore Boston Or Take A Day Trip To Salem Day 3-4 : Bar Harbor/Acadia National Park + An Optional Stop In Salem Day 5 : Jackson, NH Day 6 : Franconia, NH (Driving The Famous Kancamagus Highway To Get There!) Days 7-8 : Stowe & Woodstock, VT Day 9 : The Berkshires and/or Litchfield, CT Day 10 : Back To Boston + A Stop In Sturbridge, MA or Litchfield, CT

Breakdown Of The 10 Day Itinerary Option

Day 1: Arrival In Boston Take this time to arrive, get settled, and maybe take in a few sites around the city! Have some time on your first night here? Jump down to Day 2 for some suggestions on what to do!

Where To Stay In Boston:

• Luxury : The Langham
• Splurge : Boston Harbor Hotel
• Moderate : Revere Boston Common

Pro Tip On Fall Foliage In Boston : Foliage peaks later than the rest of the places listed in this itinerary – usually mid-late October. So while you probably won’t see peak foliage in Boston if you plan your trip for peak foliage in Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine, it may catch a glimpse of it on your back if you’re planning a longer trip! Or, you can leave the airport to immediately begin your drive to Maine, and plan to stay a night or two in Boston before you have to fly out.

Day 2: Explore Boston

Boston during the fall season has so much to see and do, but here are some highlights to consider if it’s your first visit:

• Public Gardens (very scenic garden area with a beautiful pond and pedestrian bridge (also makes for lovely photos!). This is a good spot for fall foliage in the city, too.
• Newbury Street for shopping
• The North End for history and food
• Beacon Hill for charming cobblestoned streets at the famous Acorn Street
• Take a food tour if it works with your schedule. There’s incredible food to be had in Boston, and taking a tour with a local expert is a great way to sample lots of delicious things in a short amount of time!

Click here to check out my post on the best Boston food tours!

Day 2: Optional Day Trip To Salem

If you would prefer to take a day trip to Salem, rather than stopping on your way to Acadia National Park, this is a great option! And really, there’s no right or wrong choice here – it just comes down to which you prefer.

Salem is an easy day trip from Boston without a car because of this convenient ferry! Click here to check out the Boston → Salem Ferry!

Psst! I have some helpful guides including planning the perfect Salem, MA day trip , and the best time to visit Salem if you need more information 😉

Day 3: Drive To Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is one of the best things to do in New England year-round, so this is definitely a must if you’ve never been. It also offers some really wonderful foliage, and fall is my personal favorite season to visit for this reason.

This drive from Boston to Bar Harbor takes about 5 hours without stops, which is why I usually suggest you make a pitstop to break up your journey. I actually have some posts on stops you can make along the drive, so be sure to check those out below.

But since Salem is really the ultimate fall destination in Massachusetts, I suggest you pick that as a stop on the drive 🙂

Bar Harbor is the town adjacent to Acadia National Park , and where most people will choose to stay when visiting. Once you arrive, take some time to get settled, and then head out into downtown Bar Harbor to explore this charming seaside town, visit the shops, and grab a great dinner!

Where To Stay In Bar Harbor:

• Bayview Hotel . An oceanfront boutique hotel with awesome views. Perfect for a splurge on your trip!
• Bar Harbor Villager Motel . Clean, updated and spacious. Also, walkable to everything in town.
• Little Fig Hotel . A cute, modern boutique hotel walkable to town.

Here are some posts that will help you further plan this portion of your trip:

• Best Stops To Make Driving Boston To Portland, Maine
• Best Stops To Make Driving Portland to Acadia National Park
• The Perfect Acadia National Park Itinerary (read this one for more information on Bar Harbor and things to do!)
• Best Time To Visit Acadia National Park

Day 4: Explore Acadia National Park

Even in just 1 day, you can visit some of the best places in the park, and also some really wonderful fall foliage spots. Here how I suggest you plan your day:

If you’re up for it , starting your day with sunrise at the top of Cadillac Mountain is always incredible! It’s one of the first places in the U.S. to see the sunrise, depending on the time of year, and starting October 7 through March, it’s the very first spot in the country to see the sun come up. This will be great for fall foliage, too. You can also choose to do this the following morning before leaving.

Next, head to the Jesup Path scenic walk , which is especially beautiful in the fall season.

Then, park at the Sand Beach parking lot , and walk the Ocean Path for incredible views . This is 1-mile each way, but offers some of the most iconic views in the park, including the Otter Cliffs and Thunder Hole. It’s also flat and easy, making it very relaxing. Have your camera ready for this one!

For a more advanced hike with awesome foliage views, you can do the Beehive Trail from Sand Beach lot, too.

Continue on Park Loop Road to Jordan Pond House for lunch , and enjoy the views of the pond and mountains. You can also choose to walk around the pond if you have time after lunch.

For more foliage views, hike the Bubble Rock Trail after lunch.

Day 5: Drive To Jackson, NH + Spend The Night

Without stops, this drive takes about 4 hours and 15 minutes.

One stop I suggest making on the way if you enjoy local craft beer is the Oxbow Beer Garden in Oxford , ME . It’s got a very cool outdoor setting, and they have fantastic craft beer.

I recommend spending the night in Jackson because it’s a longer drive from Bar Harbor, and there are some fun things to do in the area. Also, there’s a very scenic drive called The Kancamagus Highway that’s stunning in the fall season with foliage, and I want to make sure you have time to drive it. But more on that in Day 6 🙂

Here are some fun fall things to check out in Jackson:

• The Cog : This mountain railroad takes you to the summit of Mount Washington, the tallest peak in New England! It’s about 45 minutes from Jackson, but you’ll drive through Crawford Notch State Park , which is very scenic, and The Cog is simply incredible in the fall season. If you leave Bar Harbor early enough and have time to do this, I highly recommend it!
• Honeymoon Covered Bridge & Flossie’s General Store
• Glen Ellis Falls
• The cute town of North Conway

Where To Stay In Jackson:

• Christmas Farm Inn (this place is super cozy!)
• The Inn At Thorn Hill & Spa

Option To Stay In North Conway : North Conway is only about 12-15 minutes from Jackson, so you can really stay in either. I think Jackson has better hotel options, and it’s a bit closer to The Cog, which is why I suggested you stay there. But either town works for your New England fall road trip!

Here are some fun things to check out in North Conway if you choose to visit:

• Cathedral Ledge Distillery
• Ledge Brewing Company (between North Conway and Jackson, technically)
• The cute downtown area and Zeb’s General Store (one of my all-time favorite general stores!)
• North Conway Scenic Railroad

Day 6 – Drive The Kancamagus Highway To Franconia, NH

The Kancamagus Highway (Route 112) is a scenic drive that’s regarded as one of the best drives for fall foliage, so this is something you’ll definitely want to do on your New England fall road trip. It connects the towns of Woodstock and Conway, so you can easily start this drive just a few minutes from Jackson or North Conway.

For this day, I suggest you get up early to make sure you have time to explore Franconia Notch State Park after driving The Kanc.

Tips For Driving The Kanc:

• Remember earlier in the post when I said you’ll lose cell service in much of New Hampshire and Vermont? Well, this is one of those drives where there’s no service, so offline your maps before starting!
• There are no bathrooms or gas stations on the drive, so plan accordingly.
• The Kanc takes about 45 minutes one-way without stops, but you’ll want to budget about 2 hours to make some stops at the overlooks.
• During the fall season, especially on weekends, it’s possible traffic could slow down as people try to pull in and out of the parking areas. Plan for some slower traffic.

Pro Tip : Before hopping onto The Kanc, there’s a great little place called Cheese Louise just before the entrance to The Kanc, and this is an awesome place to grab some food before the drive! Especially on a chilly, fall day, a grilled cheese sandwich totally hits the spot, right? 😍

Stops To Make On The Kanc (in order from Conway to Woodstock):

• Albany Covered Bridge
• Rocky Gorge Scenic Area (parking can be found at 44.0016667175862, -71.27716637107925)
• Sabbaday Falls
• Sugar Hill Scenic Overlook
• CL Graham Wangan Overlook
• Hancock Overlook (this one is right at the famous hairpin turn – can’t miss it!)
• Lincoln Woods Trailhead – Scenic suspension bridge over the river that’s not far from the parking lot.

🍁 Before hopping on The Kanc, consider downloading this great audio tour to enhance your drive – Click here to check out this audio tour!

There are also tons of hiking trails along The Kanc , so if you’re looking to squeeze in a hike on the drive, this is something to consider. But if you don’t have extra time, I would suggest moving on to Franconia Notch State Park, and only doing hikes along The Kanc if you’re able to add an extra day in.

After The Kanc, your next stop is Franconia Notch State Park . And this is where most of the top things to do are , especially in the fall season .

Flume Gorge is one thing I recommend you do if you can only pick one attraction. Flume Gorge is a very fun 2-mile loop trail that takes you over 2 covered bridges, and through the granite gorge. Along the trail, you’ll have some really gorgeous spots to admire the fall foliage, too.

Not sure if this is right for your itinerary? Click here to check out my detailed post in if Flume Gorge is worth visiting , and everything you need to know to plan the perfect visit.

Pro Tip: Buy your Flume Gorge ticket online in advance to save a few bucks! On weekends in the fall season, it’s also possible that certain time slots will sell out. This is another reason to book in advance.

If you have time to explore more of Franconia Notch State Park, I also recommend these activities:

• Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway
• Artist Bluff Trail (famous spot that ends overlooking Echo Lake – amazing during foliage season!)
• The views at Echo Lake Beach

Where To Stay Near Franconia:

• Sugar Hill Inn – 15 mins from Franconia Notch Park, and is rated as the best B&B in New Hampshire!
• Riverwalk Resort – 5-7 mins from the top attractions in Franconia.
• Woodstock Inn & Brewery – Cozy inn with a brewery.

Here are some posts to help you plan this portion of your trip:

• Fun Things To Do In Franconia, NH
• Fun Things To Do In Littleton, NH
• Fun Things To Do In Lincoln, NH
• Where To Stay In New Hampshire In The Fall
• Where To Stay In The White Mountains: Guide To The Towns

Day 7 – Drive To Stowe Or Woodstock, VT

Begin your day in New Hampshire with a country breakfast at Polly’s Pancake Parlor! This place is famous in New England, and truly has some of the most amazing pancakes I’ve ever had. It does get busy in the fall season, but man, it’s so worth it.

Then, on to Vermont you go! For the next 2 nights, you’ll want to choose between Stowe and Woodstock, VT as your home base. These towns are the absolute best to visit in Vermont during a New England fall road trip because of foliage views and small-town charm. They’re only 1 hour and 15 minutes from each other, so, you can choose where you want to stay, and then visit the other as a day trip.

The drive to both Stowe and Woodstock is 1 hour and 30 minutes from Franconia , and since this is a shorter drive, you can make some stops along the way, or drive straight there. Stowe and Woodstock both have a lot to do, even though they’re small towns, so it’s beneficial to drive straight there and make sure you have plenty of time to explore.

If you choose to stay in Woodstock, I suggest stopping at the King Arthur Baking Company campus on your way because it’s pretty much on the direct route. It’s a really fun place with fresh baked goods and breads, a café, and a fun shop where you can stock up on pantry staples and baking mixes.

Do I recommend you stay in Stowe or Woodstock? I honestly love both equally! There’s no wrong choice here.

The biggest difference between the two is that Woodstock feels a bit more upscale, and Stowe definitely has a very casual feel to it. But the difference is minor. Both have charming covered bridges, great shops, amazing restaurants, a quaint town feel, and plenty of things to do.

Where To Stay In Stowe :

• The Green Mountain Inn . It’s located right on Main Street, so you can walk to a lot of places.
• Spruce Peak Resort . Perfect for those wanting a resort feel, and it’s right off the scenic Smugglers Notch drive. There are rooms with gorgeous mountain views here, too.

Where To Stay In Woodstock :

• The Woodstock Inn & Resort . It’s referred to as Vermont’s most beautiful address, and it’s in the heart of Woodstock’s village. This is a luxury hotel that’s worth it!
• 506 Inn On The River . Located just outside of the village, this is a modern and cozy inn, well … right on the river 😉

Here are some posts that will help you plan your time in Stowe and Woodstock:

• Best Things To Do In Stowe
• Best Things To Do In Woodstock

Day 8 – Explore Stowe & Woodstock, VT

Depending on where you stay, you’ll want to take a day trip to the other town this day. Below are breakdowns of the can’t miss things to do in each town .

Best Things To Do In Stowe :

• Explore the cute shops along Main Street (don’t skip the Stowe Mercantile!)
• Drive Smugglers Notch for amazing foliage.
• Ride the gondola to the top of Mount Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont (this is epic during the fall season!). This is located at the midway point along the Smugglers Notch drive.
• Visit Emily’s Covered Bridge, and learn about it’s spooky history.
• Sample the hard cider at Stowe Cider.
• Sip on craft brews at Alchemist Brewing (one of my favorites in New England).

Best Things To Do In Woodstock:

• Stroll through the charming downtown shops and eateries.
• Pop into Mon Vert Café for a warm drink.
• Snap a photo with Middle Covered Bridge in town.
• Drive over Taftsville Covered Bridge to visit Sugarbush Farms. You’ll be able to sample homemade cheese and fresh maple syrup here, and also take in amazing foliage views.
• Visit Billings Farm & Museum.
• Drive over to Sleepy Hollow Farm to see the famous farm landscape spot.

Day 9 – Drive To The Berkshires Or Litchfield, CT

Next up – The Berkshires or Connecticut! This choice is yours entirely. Let’s start with the option to drive to The Berkshires.

The Berkshires is an iconic region in Massachusetts that’s a really great one to visit for fall foliage. Here, you’ll find cute towns, loads of fall color, lots of scenic hikes and walks, and awesome dining options.

Depending on which town in Vermont you’re coming from, the northern region of The Berkshires area will be just over 2 hours from Woodstock, or just over 3 hours from Stowe .

The drive from either town to The Berkshires will pass through Rockingham, VT, and you’ll definitely want to stop here to visit the Vermont Country Store! There’s also the very cute Kissing Covered Bridge here that makes for a fun photo.

Once you arrive in The Berkshires, I suggest you start in Williamstown, and drive the scenic Route 7 down to Sheffield. This drive without stops takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes, but I would budget at least a few hours to make stops and enjoy some other fun activities. This route packs a lot into a perfect fall day, without a lot of driving.

During this drive, these are the best stops to make:

• The Mount Greylock Auto Road to the highest peak in Massachusetts (absolutely amazing in the fall season!).
• Make a detour off Route 7 to Bartlett’s Orchard in Richmond for the perfect fall farm experience.
• Continue with your short detour to Hilltop Orchards, which is 5 minutes from Bartlett’s, and where you can sip on artisanal craft ciders!
• Walk through the charming town of Lenox.
• Stroll through quaint Stockbridge, too!
• Snap photos with the covered bridge in Sheffield.

Where To Stay In The Berkshires:

• The Red Lion Inn . A historic and famous inn in the heart of Stockbridge.
• The Dewey . A cozy, traditional New England B&B in Lenox.

The other option is to drive to Litchfield, CT , which is south of The Berkshires. It’s a longer drive from Vermont, but you could also turn this into a fun road trip day by driving the same Route 7 itinerary as mentioned above through The Berkshires, and then continue on to the Litchfield Hills. I would probably only choose this option if you wanted to take your time exploring the awesome stops along Route 7 in The Berkshires, arrive in CT in the evening, and then explore this region of CT the next morning before your drive back to Boston.

How To Spend Your Time In Litchfield Hill, CT:

Since you’re likely coming down through the western border of Massachusetts, I would start in Kent, and work your way east. You probably won’t have time to do everything on this list, but pick and choose based on your preferences and schedule.

• Explore the cute town of Kent, and then visit Kent Falls State Park if you have time.
• Continue to follow Route 7 to New Milford. The drive is very scenic!
• Stop in New Milford to enjoy the quaint town, and then visit Lover’s Leap Bridge.
• Head over to Washington, and then continue on to Mount Tom State Park for awesome foliage.
• End in the charming town of Litchfield.

Where To Stay In The Litchfield Hills : Litchfield Inn . Refined and still very cozy, and one of the best in the area!

Should I do The Berkshires or Litchfield, CT? Personally, I would stay stick to The Berkshires since this will allow you a more relaxed itinerary. There’s so much to do, and plenty of foliage scenery to take in. If you do the Route 7 drive quicker than you were anticipating, you could always shoot down to the Litchfield Hills for an impromptu adventure 🙂

I would choose to add on the Litchfield Hills if you’re feeling adventurous, and really want to see as much of New England as possible.

Day 10 – Drive Back To Boston, Stopping In Sturbridge or Litchfield On The Way

If you have time to explore another cute town on your drive back to Boston, I would suggest either tacking on a quick drive through the Litchfield Hills, CT if you didn’t already, or a stop in Sturbridge, MA. Sturbridge is more on the way to Boston, and offers beautiful foliage.

How to spend your time in Sturbridge, MA :

• Visit Old Sturbridge Village for all the cozy fall New England vibes (this is a must if you have time!).
• Pop into Saw Dust Coffee & Dessert Bar for lunch and treats.
• Sip on craft beer at Altruist Brewing Company.

And of course, as mentioned in the previous day’s itinerary, the Litchfield Hills region has plenty to offer for foliage views, small towns, and beautiful scenery.

But, if you have a flight to catch, then don’t risk it, and head straight to the airport! 🙂

Optional Adjustments For The 10 Day Itinerary:

• You can easily cut out Acadia National Park, and head straight to New Hampshire, and choose to spend more time there. Acadia is out of the way, and further north, so I know it doesn’t suit everyone’s plans. This would allow you time to definitely ride The Cog, and have a more relaxed schedule.
• If you would rather have more time in Vermont, you can skip The Berkshires/CT. This is personal preference! Both areas are amazing for fall foliage, but nothing is quite like Vermont in the fall. This would allow you time to move at a slower pace. If you decide to skip The Berkshires/CT and stay in Vermont for a third night, see my 12 day itinerary, option 3 for suggestions on what to do!

12 Day Road Trip Itinerary Option

If you have 12 days (or more!), this is truly awesome. I would follow my 10 day itinerary, and then take one of these suggestions:

Option 1 : Add in 1 day to see Litchfield, CT after The Berkshires . Since you have the extra time, you can definitely see the Litchfield Hills region of Connecticut with this itinerary! I would recommend this option for those who really want to see as much of New England as possible, and make all the rounds.

Option 2 : Add an extra day to Littleton/Franconia. This region has so many great hikes and places to spot fall foliage. It’s well worth adding a day to this part of the trip if you have the extra time. This would allow you a half day to ride The Cog, and takes more scenic walks and hikes to enjoy the fall foliage.

Option 3 : Add an extra day to Vermont. On your extra day, you can take a day trip to Burlington and Shelburne, or spend the day driving the back roads .

Burlington & Shelburne, Vermont things to check out :

• First, the drive from both Stowe and Woodstock to Burlington on I-89 is beautiful in the fall. You’ll see lots of mountains ablaze with fall color.
• In Burlington, check out the waterfront area, and walk along Lake Champlain.
• Burlington also has an awesome craft brewery scene, and Foam Brewers is especially great.
• The American Flatbread restaurant in Burlington is a cozy place to stop for lunch.
• Church Street Marketplace in Burlington is a must!
• In Shelburne, you’ll want to spend most of your time walking around Shelburne Farms. This is a historic farm once owned by the Vanderbilt family, and has beautiful hiking trails, and you can also sample their homemade cheeses. Definitely do the Farm Trail, which takes you to an epic view of Lake Champlain.

Vermont back roads driving itinerary near Stowe :

This drive is easier to do from Stowe, but it’s also doable from Woodstock if you’re okay with a longer day. This itinerary is is order based on departing from Stowe, but you can also adjust based on which town you’re coming from 🙂

• The covered bridges in Montgomery, including Montgomery covered bridge (which is actually in Waterville), and Longley Covered Bridge.
• Barn Owl Bistro is a hidden gem nearby that’s a great little pitstop.
• The town of Cabot and the nearby AM Foster Covered Bridge are really beautiful areas to visit full of rustic Vermont charm.
• Peacham is a very small town with iconic landscapes and scenery.
• Bogie Farm in East Ryegate is a landscape that worthy of a postcard, and is especially beautiful in the fall.
• The drive between all these destinations will also be lovely and scenic, and packed with fall color.

1 Week (7 Day) New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

If you have 7 days, welcome to your itinerary! This option is the same as the 10 day option, but eliminates Acadia National Park to save time.

7 Day Road Trip Overview

Day 1 : Arrival In Boston Day 2 : Drive To Jackson, NH + A Stop In Salem, MA Day 3 : Drive To Franconia Along The Kancamagus Highway Days 4-5 : Drive To Stowe or Woodstock, VT + Stay 2 Nights Day 6 : The Berkshires Day 7 : Return To Boston

For this itinerary, you can also eliminate The Berkshires, and stay an extra night in Jackson or Franconia.

5 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

With 5 days, you can go in a few different directions, and below, I break down my suggested options, and the benefits of each. This way, you can tailor it to your preferences.

Option 1 : Spend two nights in Boston with a day trip to Salem, then spend 3 nights in Stowe/Woodstock, VT.

Option 1 is perfect if you prefer staying in one place longer. This itinerary will allow you to stay in the same hotel in Boston for 2 nights, and take an easy day trip to Salem for the perfect fall day of Halloween fun and history! Then you can pick up your rental car (if you haven’t already), and drive to Stowe or Woodstock, VT for 3 days to explore both towns.

With 3 days in Vermont, you can easily see both Stowe and Woodstock, and maybe even plan a day of driving around the back roads. See the 12-day itinerary option for my suggestions on driving the back roads around Vermont during foliage season .

Option 2 : Spend 1 night in Boston, stop in Salem on your way to Franconia and spend 2 nights in Franconia. Then spend 2 nights in Stowe/Woodstock, VT, and then drive back to Boston.

Option 2 is perfect for those who still want to see as much as possible in 5 days. You’ll get to see a bit of New Hampshire and Vermont, while making a stop in Salem.

Note: For this itinerary, I would drive from Salem to Conway, and the drive The Kancamagus Highway on your way to Franconia so you get to experience the fall foliage along this route. But this itinerary option eliminates the stay in Jackson, as there are more fall things to do in Franconia.

Option 3 : Spend 1 night in Boston, 1 night in Salem, 3 nights in Stowe/Woodstock, VT, and then back to Boston.

Option 3 is perfect for those who really want to spend some time in Salem. This itinerary allows you to spend a whole night in Salem to really enjoy all the Halloween festivities and tours, and then you can spend 3 beautiful days in Vermont.

I excluded New Hampshire from this option because I felt like it would be too much to cram in when adding 1 night in Salem. But if you were feeling adventurous (I’ve been there, I get it! 😂), you can drive to Franconia, NH for 1 night after Salem, and then do 2 nights in Vermont instead of 3.

3 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

3 days in New England is the perfect long weekend getaway!

With 3 days, I suggest you stay in one location , and add day trips . If you’re flying into Boston, you can stay 1 night in Boston if needed, and then drive to Vermont or New Hampshire for 2 nights. If you’re not flying in, you can spend all 3 nights in Vermont or New Hampshire.

Stowe is very close to New Hampshire, and it’s only about 1.5 hours from Franconia. You can easily do a day trip from Stowe to New Hampshire, or vice versa, for this type of itinerary.

It would also be easy to work in a stop in Salem, MA, either on your way in or out of Boston.

Weekend New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

For a weekend getaway in New England (essentially, 2 days), I would also recommend you stay in one place and take a day trip. For this itinerary, I almost always suggest Stowe or Woodstock. You can stay in either town, and spend 1 day exploring that town, and then the next day, exploring the other as a day trip.

Vermont Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Looking to just see Vermont? Excellent choice. It’s my personal favorite fall destination in New England (even though it’s a very close call 😉)

For a Vermont fall road trip , you can really do it in anywhere from 5-7 days. Of course, more is better to really see everything, but generally speaking, you can actually make it happen in a week or less. A popular route to take in Vermont is Route 100 , which runs the entire length of state, right through the middle. This allows you opportunities to veer off and see some other places as well.

For the purpose of this itinerary, I’m going to provide a week-long (7 day) itinerary, and you can adjust it to your own plans.

Day 1 : Bennington & Manchester Day 2 : Drive to Woodstock, stopping in Grafton and Weston on the way Day 3 : Spend the day in Woodstock Day 4 : Drive to Stowe, stopping in Montpelier if you’d like Day 5 : Spend the day in Stowe Day 6 : Staying in Stowe, take a day trip to Burlington & Shelburne Day 7 : Drive back

Day 1 Suggestions : Bennington and Manchester are pretty close to each other, so you can easily do both in one afternoon. There are some wonderful covered bridges in the area to see, and here are some more things to check out:

• The Bennington Battle Monument for fall foliage scenery.
• Downtown Bennington for shopping on Main Street (small, but cute!).
• Apple Barn is a few minutes from Main Street for a fun country store and bakery.
• Zoe’s in Manchester for lunch (great sandwiches!)
• Downtown Manchester for shopping in a cute town (don’t skip Northshire!)

Day 2 Suggestions : Grafton is a very small town, but it’s quintessential Vermont. It has a cute little cheese shop, and a nice little market/cafe called MKT Grafton, which is perfect for a quick bite. Also, swing by Weston to visit the Vermont Country Store.

For the rest of the itinerary, refer to the 10 day option for details 🙂

Click here to check out my post on a Vermont covered bridges road trip!

New Hampshire Fall Road Trip Itinerary

My second favorite fall foliage destination! Here’s my suggested itinerary for a New Hampshire-only fall road trip.

To just see New Hampshire , you can also spend anywhere from 4-7 days.

With 4 days, you can easily just stick to the White Mountains region, but I’m here to give you all my tips on even more awesome places to see in the fall season in New Hampshire ☺️ So, this itinerary will be 7 full days , but adjust as you need to!

Day 1 : Portsmouth Day 2 : Lake Winnipesaukee Days 3-4 : Littleton/Franconia Days 5-6 : North Conway/Jackson Day 7 : Drive back

Connecticut Fall Road Trip Itinerary Option

If you’ve seen all the “hot spots” around Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Maine, and you’re looking to explore a new part of New England in the fall, Connecticut should be next on your list!

As mentioned, my favorite place in Connecticut for fall foliage is the Litchfield Hills region. I always like to share that this region was what inspired Amy Sherman-Palladino’s creation of Stars Hollow, so Gilmore Girls fans will especially love this area.

The Litchfield Hills is very compact, and you can easily do a lot in a weekend here. However, 3-4 nights will allow you a nice, leisurely pace to explore all the amazing things this region has to offer in the fall.

The best towns to stay in in the Litchfield Hills region are:

• New Milford
• Washington/Washington Depot

Of all these towns, Litchfield probably has the most options when it comes to shopping and dining, however, they’re all very quaint and charming. I would pick whichever one has the best hotel for your plans.

If you have extra time for your Connecticut fall road trip, you can tack on places like Canaan to the north of the Litchfield Hills region, drive to Glastonbury, and then through the River Valley region, which includes the adorable towns of Chester and Essex. You can also choose to end your road trip in Mystic.

What To Pack For A New England Fall Road Trip

I always start every New England packing guide with the same thing, and this post is no different: begin to check the weather reports 5 days out from your trip to get an idea of what the weather will be like . And keep checking it until the day before you leave .

This is because weather in New England can change quickly, especially in the fall season. It’s not quite as dramatic as say … Iceland 😉 But, it can change and vary a bit. Generally speaking, fall will be chilly and a bit rainy. However, you could also have warm and sunny days. For longer trips, you’ll want to pack for both scenarios.

Here are some things I recommend you consider when packing for a fall road trip through New England:

Waterproof hiking boots . If you plan to do any hiking, or even nature walks, you’ll want a pair of sturdy boots that are waterproof. Even some attractions like Flume Gorge and other waterfalls in New Hampshire are pretty wet, so this is a good idea to stay dry and comfortable. I really like the Eddie Bauer K-6 Hiking boots. Find the women’s version here and the men’s version here . They’re a much less expensive version of the famous Danner hiking boots featured in the movie Wild !

Good hiking socks to keep your feet dry . An awesome brand to support is Tarn Tough Socks , which is a Vermont-based company. They’re an investment, but they’re also the best, and come with a lifetime guarantee!

Waterproof rain jacket to stay dry if it rains . You won’t want to let the rain slow you down, especially if there’s a lot in the forecast! So definitely pack one that’s completely water proof ( not water-resistant).

Layers . The best way to dress in the fall season is with layers. Under your rain gear, flannels, sweaters, and lightweight t-shirts (both short-sleeved or long-sleeved) work great.

Jeans . These work really well for most days. Fall in New England is pretty casual.

Hiking clothing . For any hikes you want to do, pack whatever clothes you typically wear and feel comfortable in 🙂

Comfortable sneakers or boots . When it’s not raining, a good pair of comfortable sneakers or cute boots work perfectly, depending on your plans. Since I drive from New York, I don’t usually have to worry too much about weight limits on a suitcase, so I’ll throw a pair of sneakers, flat boots/booties, and my hiking boots into the car. This is usually all I ever need.

Dinner outfits . New England is home to incredible places for farm-to-table dining, some of which are a bit more fancy. If you plan to go out for a nice dinner or two, you’ll want to pack accordingly. New England isn’t super fancy, so women can do a casual dress/jeans and a nice top with booties in the fall, and men can easily do dark-wash jeans and a button down top.

Reusable water bottle . You’ll need to stay hydrated while out exploring!

Day pack . If you plan to do any hiking, you’ll want to bring a day pack with you to carry your essentials. If you don’t plan to do any hikes, you can probably skip this, as you can keep most everything you need in your car or room.

Does It Snow In New England In The Fall?

Here’s the thing – it might if you’re up in the mountains. However, it doesn’t usually snow during peak foliage times. Usually, New England gets its first snow of the year later in October or early November. So, I wouldn’t worry about packing any snow gear or winter boots for your fall road trip.

How Do To A New England Fall Trip On A Budget

So, first thing’s first, you’ll unfortunately have to rethink what “budget” means in New England, especially during peak season in the fall. It’s generally more expensive than other areas of the country regardless of the reason, so during prime foliage times, prices will go up significantly.

Especially in the past, I never had the money to spend on several nights at hotels during this time of the year, so I have learned to do it on more of a budget. Not necessarily cheap, but not as tough on the wallet 😉 Here are my tips:

• Stay in motels. I love a good hotel splurge, and do it more now than I did in my 20s and early 30s. But for most of my road trips when the focus in exploring outdoors, I stay in motels with efficiency kitchens . You can find some really nice ones, and while they’re likely to be outdated, they’re usually clean and cozy.
• Efficiency kitchens allow you to make some meals at home. For a road trip style trip, this may be more challenging, as it’s hard to bring perishable items with you to store in a fridge. But I usually try to make my own breakfasts to save money, and pack snacks to have for lunch.
• Stay outside of town. If you’re really on a tight budget, you can stay outside of the towns you’re visiting. Places like Franconia, Stowe, and Woodstock charge premium rates for peak season, so you’re likely to find deals a town or two away.
• Go camping! If you’re really adventurous, you can go camping! There are camp sites all over New England, and this will definitely be more affordable. One thing to keep in mind is the colder weather, and for this reason, some camp sites may close down after Indigenous People’s weekend in October. But many remain open, and offer Yurt-style camping, too.

Is Fall In New England Worth It?

A resounding yes! I truly believe this is such a magical time to visit – if not the most magical time. Despite the crowds and the cost, it’s more than worth it. Many of the landscapes you’ll see are actual stock photos and postcards, and since so many people equate the fall season to all things cozy, there’s really no cozier place to be than in New England during foliage season.

More posts you may enjoy:

• Fall In New England: The Best Things To See & Do
• Vermont In The Fall: Festive Things To Do!
• Fall In New Hampshire: The Best Things To Do
• Fall In Massachusetts Ultimate Guide: All The Best Things To Do & Foliage Spots!
• The Best 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary For Any Season
• Best Stops To Make On A Boston To Stowe, VT Road Trip
• Vermont vs. New Hampshire In The Fall
• Maine In October: Best Towns For Foliage & Things To Do!
• Best Vermont Pumpkin Patches & Farm Stands To Visit In The Fall
• Awesome Corn Mazes In Vermont
• Best Time To Visit New England
• Best Time To Visit Vermont

That’s A Wrap On The Best New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

And there you have it! All my tips and expert advice on planning the most epic New England fall road trip during foliage season! This truly is such a wonderful, once-in-a-lifetime experience that everyone should do at least once, and hopefully, you’re now well on your way to planning your own foliage adventure through New England!

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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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Maine Fall Foliage Driving Tours

The interior of Maine is a wonderland for fall foliage seekers, and even in places along the coast, the fall color change can be observed and appreciated. Driving yourself through the small towns and back roads is the ideal way to take your time and savor the beauty of the fall foliage. 

To time your drives to coincide with peak fall colors in September and October, the Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry offers weekly reports on foliage conditions throughout the state.

Maine is a great place to start your leaf peeping journey. If you are touring other Northeast states, too, consider these recommended driving routes in Connecticut , Massachusetts , New Hampshire , Rhode Island , Vermont and  New York .

Maine High Peaks Arts & Heritage Loop

The Maine High Peaks Arts & Heritage Loop provides a way to enjoy fall foliage in the mountains and find unique arts and crafts in the villages as you go. This is an 82-mile loop around 10 of Maine’s highest mountains. The website provides an interactive map listing attractions.

There are informational kiosks located in five towns along the driving loop: Kingfield, Carrabassett Valley, Eustis, Rangeley, and Phillips. Map guides are available at each kiosk, as well as information about individual galleries, trails, museums, scenic overlooks, landmarks, and historic attractions.

Portland to Rangeley Lake

Set out from Portland for a day of leaf peeping following these directions. The last leg of this journey is one of Maine's most cherished fall drives.

Route 17 winds along the Swift River and leads to the shimmering scene of leaves reflected in Rangeley Lake. Along the way, don't miss the stunning panorama of mountains and lakes known as  Height of Land . This viewpoint is one of the most dramatic scenic turnouts in the State and one of the best foliage views in all of New England .

Georgetown Island

Georgetown Island makes for a great day trip while in southern or Midcoast Maine. Detour off Coastal Route 1 in Bath for a chance to see quiet fishing villages, ocean views, and foliage, too.

An ideal place to stop is the Marina at beautiful Robinhood Cove, home to the Anchor Bar & Grill at the Osprey Nest. Enjoy the great views of sailboats and powerboats cruising in and out of the cove, and dine on fresh seafood.

Enjoy the island in its autumn finery, set against the blue waters of the ocean and rivers. It's one of the best places to see fall foliage in Midcoast Maine.

Portland to Freeport

Freeport is a quick, 20-minute drive up Interstate-95 from Portland, but to get the best look at the foliage, try the back roads instead. Leaving Portland via Interstate 295 North, take the exit for Route 1. Near Falmouth Foreside, veer right onto Route 88.

Admire the stately homes, the elegant old maples, and oaks in their autumn finery and the glimpses of Casco Bay through the trees in Maine's wealthiest community.

After passing under the Interstate 95 overpass, take the first left to Yarmouth. Bear left at the next intersection onto Main Street, where you'll pass several historic white churches with steeples framed by the flaming colors of graceful old maple trees. 

Old Canada Road

Old Canada Road (Route 201), is a National Scenic Byway in northwestern Maine. You'll be tracing the path along the Kennebec River, historically an Indian trading route, once followed by Benedict Arnold on his way to lay siege to Quebec.

You'll pass little towns like Bingham with classic clapboard homes. In the Forks area, people go rafting on the Kennebec.

Wiscasset to Thomaston

Wiscasset is known as the prettiest village in Maine, so be sure and spend a little time exploring. Drive down Route 1, and stop by the five-year-old Maine Heritage Village , a collection of shops, food, and exhibits, and then tour the historic buildings of Wiscasset before you set out on your search for fall foliage.

Leaving Wiscasset, take U.S. Route 1 North (East) over the bridge. If you have time for a short detour, turn right onto Eddy Road immediately after the bridge and follow for one-half mile, then take the next right onto Fort Road to Fort Edgecomb. The site has a large picnic area with beautiful views of the Sheepscot River, harbor seals, and nesting osprey.

Continuing on Route 1, Sheepscot River Pottery , on the left just after the bridge leaving Wiscasset, is well worth a visit, especially if you're looking for Maine gifts to take home. Don't miss the opportunity to go out the back door and relax in a lawn chair while enjoying yet more views of the serene Sheepscot River.

Back out on Route 1, head to Newcastle and take Route 130 South, a country road that will take you through Bristol, New Harbor, and all the way to Pemaquid Point, where you'll want to stop at Pemaquid Point State Park for a look at the Pemaquid Lighthouse and a dramatic, quintessential view of the rockbound coast of Maine. Kids and adults alike will want to scramble over the massive, furrowed granite ledges that protect the lighthouse from the crashing surf of the Atlantic Ocean. This is a great place for a picnic lunch.

Backtrack up Route 130 North into New Harbor and take Route 32 North, following it almost all the way to Route 1, into the town of Waldoboro, where you'll turn right on Main Street and then take Route 220 South to Friendship, a quaint fishing village on Muscongus Bay. Enjoy watching the Maine windjammers you'll see sailing in Friendship Harbor and the lobstermen pulling their lobster traps.

Leave Friendship via Route 97 North (and East) through Cushing and into Thomaston. If you're a Wyeth fan, you'll want to stop in Cushing to visit the Olson House, made famous by Andrew Wyeth in his painting "Christina's World."

When you reach Thomaston, turn right onto Route 1 North. You'll come to the Maine State Prison Showroom, where you can purchase a wide variety of handcrafted items, from furniture to ship models, created by inmates. Route 1 through the town of Thomaston is lined with stately old colonial homes and sea captains' houses from a bygone era.

If you're staying overnight somewhere in the MidCoast region, you can continue your sightseeing by staying on Route 1 North to Rockland and Camden, worthwhile destinations in their own right. When you're ready to return, Route 1 South will take you all the way back to Wiscasset, Bath, and beyond.

Warren Fall Foliage Loop

This fall driving tour that begins and ends in Warren, Maine, on the St. Georges River, takes in lakes, mountains, and more as it travels across the Appleton Ridge and into Camden via back roads.

From Route 1 in Warren heading north, turn left on North Pond Road. This narrow, winding road hugs the shores of North Pond and offers several long views of sparkling blue water against the backdrop of the mountains of Union.

Follow North Pond Road until you come to a stop sign. Turn left onto Western Road. Look for Beth's Farm Market , definitely worth a stop. Beth's is one of the finest farmers markets in the state, with quality produce picked fresh daily, including Maine blueberries, strawberries, and apples in season. The aged cheddar cheese is out of this world.

Just past Beth's, the road forks. Keep to the right to continue on Western Road, which soon becomes Route 235, part of the Georges River Scenic Byway. As you approach Union, you'll drive along a high ridge overlooking a large blueberry field sloping down to Seven Tree Pond on your right. Depending on the time of year, it may appear to be a blanket of blue, laden with Maine's favorite fruit, or, in the fall, a carpet of blazing red, known as blueberry barrens. There's a small dirt roadway on the right that you can pull into to enjoy the view.

Follow Route 235 to the stop sign at the intersection with Route 17 in Union. Turn left and drive through the center of this small farming community, settled in 1774 along the St. George River. The quaint town, surrounded by hills, lakes, rivers and rolling farms and blueberry fields, is set around one of the oldest public commons in the state of Maine. Many of the homes were built before the 1840s.

Turn right onto Route 131 North, which follows the western shore of Sennebec Pond. After several miles, you'll come to the intersection of Route 105. Turn left, headed northwest, and go approximately one mile, watching for Appleton Ridge Road on your right (note: the sign may simply say Ridge Road). Turn right onto Appleton Ridge Road and follow all the way to Searsmont (about five miles). Take your time: The road may be a bit rough, and you don't want to miss any of the spectacular scenery along this hilly ridge with beautiful views of fall foliage and more blueberry barrens.

In Searsmont, continue on Route 131 to Moody Mountain Road. Turn right and continue south for roughly seven miles until the road ends at Route 235. Turn left onto Route 235 and continue until it ends in Lincolnville Center. Turn right onto Route 173 and head southeast for a mile or less until the road forks.

Keep to the right to leave Route 173 and follow Route 52, which will soon take you along the edge of Camden's beautiful Megunticook Lake under the towering sheer rock face of Maiden's Cliff. Legend has it that a young maiden, picking berries at the top of the cliff in 1862, reached out to catch her bonnet, which had been taken by the wind, and fell to her death. The white cross at the top was erected in her memory.

Megunticook Lake ends at Barret's Cove, which has a public beach and boat launch area with views down the length of the eastern part of the lake. To reach the beach parking lot to savor the view, turn right down the sloping road at the end of the lake.

Retrace your steps back out to Route 52 and follow it into the town of Camden to the intersection of Route 1. It would be a shame to have come this far without driving to the top of Mt. Battie to see the astounding panoramic views of Camden Harbor and the islands of Penobscot Bay, so if time allows, before heading south on Route 1 to return to Warren, turn left and follow Route 52 north a few miles to Camden Hills State Park on your left. The drive to the summit takes only minutes--time you will not begrudge when you see the colorful view, beautiful any time of year. This is where famous American poet Edna St. Vincent Millay stood as she penned the famous poem that begins: "All I could see from where I stood was three long mountains and a wood. I turned and looked another way and saw three islands in a bay."

Whether or not you visit Camden Hills State Park, turn right on Route 1 and follow it all the way through Rockport, Rockland and Thomaston, all towns well worth exploring. You'll arrive back in Warren, where this drive began.

How to Travel from Portland to Freeport by Train, Bus, and Car

The 10 Best Day Trips from Portland, Maine

The 5 Best Fall Day Trips From Portland, Maine

The 7 Best Places to See Fall Colors in Connecticut

6 Best Fall Foliage Drives in Western Pennsylvania

Best Fall Foliage Drives in the New England States

How to Get to Acadia from Portland, Maine

7 Beautiful New England Fall Foliage Train Tours

Your Trip to Maine: The Complete Guide

New England Fall Foliage Cruises and Boat Tours

The Best Places to Eat Lobster in Maine

The 10 Best Hikes in New York's Catskills

Acadia National Park: The Complete Guide

Smith Rock State Park: The Complete Guide

The 28 Best Day Trips From Seattle

Congaree National Park: The Complete Guide

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Perfect New England Fall Road Trip: 10, 5, 3 Day Itinerary 2024

May 31, 2023

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I'm a travel creator and influencer coach based out of Arizona. This blog is where I share the best itineraries for US & beyond, 63 US National Parks , and influencer tips . Read More About Me ⟶

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What do fiery oranges, sultry yellows, candy-apple reds, quaint cabins, and Gilmore Girl towns all have in common? New England in the fall.

The best way to experience all that and more is with a New England fall road trip itinerary.

So in this post, we’re going to spill all the tea (or pumpkin spice?) on how to pull off the best NE itinerary including information I’ve gathered from three separate New England fall trips I’ve taken over the years.

We’ll cover multiple itineraries: 10 days, 5 days, and 3 days—mainly focused on Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine (maps included).

To start, we need to cover some must-know planning details before you embark on your trip!

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Disclaimer: Hey, pumpkin spice lover! This blog contains affiliate links which means I earn a v small percentage of every purchase at no additional cost to you. These affiliate links help support me and my blog, but there is absolutely no pressure to use them!

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Planning Your New England Fall Road Trip

Let’s start with a quick peep at some planning 101’s.

Where is New England📍 — New England is a compilation of US states: Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.

States with the Best Foliage🍁 — New Hampshire, Maine, Vermont—all covered in this post.

When to Go❓ — Late September, Mid-October—First week of October is usually a good ballpark.

Trip Length⏰ — 10 days is ideal—5 to 7 is great too (all covered in this post)

Fly✈️ — Start in Boston or Albany, New York. Check KAYAK for flights starting at $53.

Rental Car🚗 — Also check KAYAK for the best prices in Albany or Boston !

Now, we need to dive into my top “need to knows” for planning your trip.

When is the Best Time to See Fall Colors in New England in 2024?

The best time to see fall colors in New England is beginning to mid-October.

After three years of experience, I have always had the best luck exploring the first week of October.

The peak time to see colors can change depending on how much water the trees receive leading up to the fall season. A dry season can result in less vibrant leaves!

Insider Tip: As you plan, keep a daily eye on the New England peak fall foliage map —which leads us to the next must-know.

Fall Colors Are (Semi) Unpredictable

Planning fall trips to New England can be a tricky business. You see, you’re playing with a season, and seasons can be unpredictable. 

My advice: be as flexible as possible with your New England fall trips.

Daily, you’ll want to keep an eye on the leaf monitors to ensure you’re getting the most accurate reading of colors.

During my trips, I found that sometimes the leaves would change color overnight! 

Insider Tip: Don’t get tied up in going to a single spot for New England fall foliage. Instead, have a general list of places you want to see and go from there. This blog will provide you with plenty of options!

Choosing Your Starting Point

From experience, starting your New England fall road trip itinerary in Albany, NY or Boston, MA (Boston-Logan International) will give you the best flexibility and EPIC itineraries .

My favorite trips have always been a loop, beginning in NY, heading North, and ending in New York’s Adirondacks .

I want to make sure you have options, though.

So first, we’ll cover a 10-day itinerary from Albany, NY. Then as a bonus, we’ll cover starting from Boston (in case you want to do that instead).

Let’s start with the Albany itinerary.

Insider Tip: Leaves tend to change north first and gradually work their way south. When in doubt, hit your northern fall foliage destinations first and move down! 

10-Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary Starting in New York

• Day 1 — Arrive in Albany, NY ; Berkshires
• Day 2 — White Mountains ; Kancamagus Highway
• Day 3 — Franconia Notch State Park
• Day 4 — Crawford Notch State Park
• Day 5 — Acadia National Park
• Day 6 — Acadia National Park
• Day 7 — Dixville Notch State Park
• Day 8 — Stowe, VT ; Smuggler’s Notch
• Day 9 — Lake Placid, NY ; Adirondacks
• Day 10 — Head to Albany, NY

Below is a map that includes all the destinations I listed for the ten-day New England fall road trip and the bonus locations we’ll cover later. 

The map has layers for our alternative itineraries (coverd later), recommended things to do, and places to eat we’ll cover in this post!

Click here for a live version of the map!

You can thank me later ;).

Let’s dive in! Each day has its own list of things to do, places to eat, and where to stay.

Day 1 — Berkshires, MA

Day 1 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~2 hours)

• Morning: Arrive in New York and pick up car
• Afternoon: Drive to Berkshires, ~2hrs
• Evening: Visit Mount Greylock
• Stay: Tourists , The Williams Inn

Now let’s look at the details!

After flying into New York and picking up your car , your New England foliage adventure will begin in the Berkshires, MA. 

I suggest arriving to Albany the evening before day one OR early to late afternoon on day 1 .

This way, you have enough time to drive to the Berkshires and explore the area.

Insider Tip: I love this itinerary so much because starting in Albany allows you to explore the NY Adirondacks too (we discuss this in the post)!

Your drive to the Berkshires from Albany, NY, will be about 1 hour and 20 minutes—it’s a great place to start the fall fun!

Start by heading to Mount Greylock, the highest peak in Massachusetts, which stands at 3,489ft.

Don’t worry; I’m not making you hike the very first day you get here.

Drive up to the top of Mount Greylock and admire the fall views from above!

For food in the area, Korean Garden is the place for tasty Asian dishes!

Another option is Pera Bistro which offers a Mediterranean menu.

Insider Tip: To and from Mount Greylock, you’ll have stores like Walmart available in case you need supplies and snacks!

Where to Stay Near The Berkshires

Adams and Williamstown are where you’ll find amazing mountain resorts tucked away in the woods—perfect for fall.

Here’s a quick list of places you’d like:

Tourists ($$$) — Luxury accommodations that will make you think you’ve just entered the mountain escape of your dreams. Pet friendly, great food, great music, even BETTER vibes.

The Williams Inn ($$$) — Luxury hotel nestled in the mountains that will make you feel like east coast royalty. Great for couples with spacious, clean rooms and super cozy beds—check out the bar and The Log restaurant!

If camping is more your vibe, you’ll be a bit out of the way, but the Savoy Mountain State Forest has options for tent camping, car camping, and log cabins.

You must reserve a spot ahead of time, though before choosing to camp here during your fall road trip in New England.

Insider Tip: Tomorrow will be one of the longer driving days because you’ll want to head to the White Mountains from here, so rest up!

Day 2 — White Mountains, New Hampshire

Day 2 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~5 hours)

• Morning: Drive the Mohawk Trail Scenic Drive
• Afternoon: Drive to White Mountains, New Hampshire
• Late Afternoon: Explore Kancamagus Highway
• Stay: The Stonehurst Manor , Ledge & Lake Chalet , North Conway Grand Hotel

If day one didn’t satisfy your hunger for pumpkin spice and fall vibes, day two will!

Drive the Mohawk Trail

Before leaving Massachusetts, you’ll drive the Mohawk Trail —one of the most scenic New England foliage drives! 

The entire trail stretches about 69 miles.

The drive includes plenty of mountainside vistas that’ll make you fall in love with MA—see what I did there ;).

Insider Tip: Make sure you bring something like a Sony a6400 and 24-70mm f/2.8 lens for some pictures!

Lincoln, NH

After 4 hours, you’ll arrive in Lincoln, NH — a town in New Hampshire’s White Mountains and a well-known hub for visitors.

Once there, grab something to eat at Gypsy Cafe or a coffee at Half Baked & Fully Brewed ( The Moon Cafe & Bakery is a great alternative)!

Alternative: None of that your vibe? Black Mtn Burger Co is another popular place to eat in Lincoln, NH!

Explore the Kancamagus Highway

Today, you’ll explore some popular attractions along the Kancamagus Highway !

Driving the entire Kancamagus Highway takes about an hour.

The Highway goes 37 miles through the White Mountains, starting in Lincoln, NH, and ending in Conway , NH (where you’ll be staying next). 

Unfortunately, there are no gas stations or food options along the Highway, so bring snacks!

All vehicles must pay a $5 entrance fee. You can read more online at KancamagusHighway.com

Here are a couple of my favorite stops:

Hancock Overlook —Located along the Kancamagus Hairpin Turn, Hancock Overlook will seriously leave you in awe with its view of rolling hills and mountains COVERED in vibrant fall foliage.

Sabbaday Falls —One of New Hampshire’s most visited waterfalls!

Click here to grab a Kancamagus audio tour!

Insider Tip: Lincoln, NH is pretty small, so you’ll be better off driving the entire Highway and staying in the Conway, NH, area.

Flume Gorge

A MUST on your drive is to stop at what’s called Flume Gorge.

It’s famous for its red covered bridge which makes a great photo spot.

To enter Flume Gorge , you’ll have to pay $18 (if you grab your pass online).

In-person passes are $21.  Click here for more details !

Fun Fact: covered bridges are known as “kissing bridges” because of their privacy. Make your way through the Highway until you reach Conway.

Where to Stay in Conway, NH

Conway, NH is a fairly big city and you’ll probably find more things to do in the North Conway area.

So when considering accommodations, try to stay there!

Here are some places to consider:

The Stonehurst Manor ($$$) —A glorious mansion in North Conway where you’ll enjoy a romantic-style room complete with a fireplace! With your stay you can enjoy free dinner and breakfast.

Ledge & Lake Chalet ($$) —A cozy chalet nestled in the White Mountains. Enjoy a fall foliage view from your windows before taking a short walk to Echo Lake!

North Conway Grand Hotel ($$) —A great hotel with everything you could ask for! Enjoy the spa, pool, and proximity to outdoor adventures. You can even cozy up in a king room complete with a personal hot tub (if that’s your style).

Insider Tip: Want a cabin getaway? Check out this guide: Cozy Cabin Rentals in North Conway, NH

Day 3 — Franconia Notch State Park (Amazing New England Fall Road Trip Sunrise)

Day 3 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~2 hours)

• Morning: Artist Bluff
• Afternoon : Explore Franconia Notch State Park
• Evening: Check out more of North Conway

On Day 3 of your New England fall road trip itinerary you’ll get to see the popular Franconia Notch State Park and explore one of my favorite New Hampshire towns: Conway—woohoo!

Hiking Artist Bluff Trail

First stop: Artist Bluff Trail for some leaf peeping in New England this morning!

I’ve gone here for sunrise in the past, but a mid-morning hike is a great choice too!

The drive here from Conway will be about 1 hour, but it’s worth it!

The trail is about 1.9 miles round trip with very minimal elevation gain.

Artist Bluff is where you will get the famous New England foliage view of Echo Lake — prepare for your jaw to DROP . I mean, just look at the pictures.

Insider Tip: The trail gets SO windy at the top, so don’t wear anything that can fly away. 

Franconia Notch State Park

After your hike, take some time to explore the rest of the park!

Below are some attractions to consider:

Echo Lake Beach —You already saw the lake from above. Now go explore the fall-covered shoreline! Click here to book parking reservations —parking is limited.

Hike More Trails —Lonesome Lake Trail, Mt. Pemigewasset Trail, and the Appalachian Trail are more fall hikes you can enjoy.

Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway —Enjoy fall views from 4,000 feet in the sky! Taking the sky tram up Cannon Mountain will give you views of New Hampshire, Vermont, New York, AND Canada.

This is a pretty scenic area of New Hampshire—I enjoyed just driving around!

Insider Tip: If you don’t have time to see too much, I at least recommend exploring Echo Lake — it’s just too pretty!

North Conway, NH

After your adventures, head to North Conway . 

Since you already explored the Highway yesterday, you can go straight through!

North Conway, New Hampshire like the New England mountain town of your dreams, complete with a little railroad *choo choo* and boutique shops.

It’s a gem nestled in the White Mountains.

Surrounded by endless trees that go orange in the fall, North Conway is the perfect place to snack on pumpkin spice everything while you cozy up in oversized knit scarves and sweaters.

So, duhhhhhh, it has to be a stop on your itinerary.

You can shop, eat, or hang out at Schouler Park —a large grassy area perfect for a picnic.

Make time to check out the Conway Scenic Railroad. 

If you didn’t get coffee earlier,  The Met  is the place to be! Want something sweet to end your day?

I also recommend you check out the  White Mountain Cupcakery ! Chocolate peanut butter cupcakes— SIGN ME UP.

Insider Tip: Popular food spots for when you arrive in Conway include Chef’s Bistro , Vito Marcello’s Italian Bistro , and Muddy Moose Restaurant & Pub .

Black Cap Trail (Optional)

If you’re in the mood for another hike, Black Cap Trail is great for fall foliage!

Black Cap Trail is about 610ft in elevation gain and a 2.3 miles round trip .

At the top, you’ll have sweeping mountain views of the Presidential Range .

You’ll stay in Conway again— tomorrow will be your last night here!

Insider Tip: Black Cap is a pretty easy hike, so if you didn’t feel like doing Artist Bluff Earlier, this is a great alternative.

Day 4—Crawford Notch State Park (My Fave New England Fall Foliage Stop)

Day 4 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~1.5 hours)

• Morning: Drive to Crawford Notch State Park
• Afternoon: Visit Mount Willard Trail
• Late Afternoon: Frankenstein Cliffs & other major attractions

Today we’re heading a little bit north and going to Crawford Notch State Park where you’ll be deep in the White Mountains—prime spot for fall colors!

Crawford Notch State Park Hiking

Crawford Notch makes up a large pass that carves straight through the White Mountains.

In New Hampshire’s smallest town, Hart’s Location , Crawford Notch State Park, is the hidden mountain gem you didn’t know you needed in your life.

If everything aligns, you could see peak fall colors here, which is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Fall will paint the trees with the most intense red color, leaving any fall lover speechless!

One of the best parts about Crawford is that you can bring your furry friends there!

On my last trip to NE, I brought my pup along, and he LOVED this portion of the White Mountain National Forest.

And if you’re heading to Crawford Notch, you must do at least one hike !

That’s the best way to see the colors.

Here are a couple of trails to consider:

Mount Willard Trail —Hike for a jaw-dropping valley full of fall colors. The trail is approximately 3.2 miles round trip with 950ft of elevation gain. 

Frankenstein Cliffs —A more challenging trail that will take you to Arethusa Falls. Some parts of the trail will take you close to parts of the park’s railroad (Frankenstein Trestle)! 

Insider Tip: Since the park lines a small section of the White Mountain Highway, it’s pretty easy to get around.

Crawford Notch Scenic Stops

If hiking isn’t your thing, though, there are plenty of other neat fall experiences you can enjoy here:

Enjoy a Scenic Overlook —You can enjoy tons of overlooks and pullouts as you drive around Crawford. Some have views of fall foliage along the Saco Rover (the river that lines the whole park).

Ride the Conway Scenic Railroad —From Crawford Station, you can ride the Conway Scenic Railroad’s Mountaineer route, which is a ridiculously scenic fall ride through the mountains.

Go Back in Time at Willey House —Visit the historical Willey House and look at old park photographs, eat ice cream, or enjoy the surrounding outdoor scenery.

Saco River —Enjoy exploring the Saco River and the gorgeous foliage around it!

Insider Tip: For the night, you’ll stay in   Conway   again before we continue on your New England fall road trip itinerary—Maine is up next and it’ll be a longer drive!

Day 5—Acadia National Park, Maine

Day 5 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~4 hours)

• Morning: Drive to Acadia National Park
• Afternoon: Bar Harbor
• Evening: Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse for sunset
• Stay: The Primrose , The Inn on Mount Desert , Bar Harbor Grand Hotel

Today’s leg of the road trip will take you all the way up to Maine!

Bar Harbor, Maine

Maine has to be one of my favorite states for New England fall foliage because you get a unique mix of autumn colors and ocean views.

While this is a 4-hour drive, you don’t have to be anywhere until sunset hits. 

So if you have some time to spare, grab some food in Conway and some snacks for the road before continuing your leaf-peeping New England adventures!

And the drive up to Acadia will be beautiful!

You’ll be in the mountains LITTERED with fall colors—ooo la laaa!

Bar Harbor is a town on Mount Desert Island, surrounded by gorgeous cliffs and the ocean.

Known for its stunning coastal vibes and boating, Bar Harbor is the perfect place to enjoy a lobster roll after a full day of exploring the park.

If that sounds like your vibe, you must check out  The Travelin Lobster !

You’ll spend two nights in Bar Harbor—the gateway to Acadia National Park.

Insider Tip: While you’re here, I recommend you take a tour around Bar Harbor and Acadia NP !

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

For your first sunset in Acadia National Park, I suggest visiting the classic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse . 

Bass Harbor Head was constructed in 1858 and was considered significant for its aid, making transportation possible in Maine.

You may not see much New England fall foliage here, but it’s the easiest way to enjoy your first evening in Acadia National Park.

Expect parking to be limited and hectic! 

For dinner, I recommend checking out  Cafe This Way !

They have something for everyone, from fresh lobster to a vegan burger!

Cafe This Way also has a great breakfast menu, just saying.

Insider Tip: Bass Harbor Head is a popular photography spot but a must-see for visiting the park—plan to get here almost an hour before sunset.

Where to Stay in Bar Harbor

The hotels in Bar Harbor are just as dreamy as the views—check them out:

The Primrose ($$) —An elegant hotel where you’ll be just a mile from Acadia! The Victorian-style rooms will leave you in awe, but so will the fluffy pumpkin pancakes!

The Inn on Mount Desert ($$) —A charming guest home is an adorable Bar Harbor neighborhood. You’ll love staying here for its proximity to downtown and cozy beds that practically hug you to sleep.

Bar Harbor Grand Hotel ($$) —A gorgeous hotel property modeled after the elegant 19th century Bar Harbor homes that used to line the city. It’s centrally located to the beach, park, and downtown—everything is within walking distance!

You’ll start tomorrow with a sunrise mission, so get plenty of rest!

Day 6—Acadia National Park

Day 6 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~1 hour)

• Morning: Adventure through Acadia National Park
• Afternoon: Cadillac Mountain, Jesup Path
• Evening: Beehive Trail for sunset

Today will be your time to see as many things to do in Acadia National Park as possible!

Cadillac Mountain

While exploring Acadia National Park in the fall, you may as well see the first sunrise in the USA!

During October, the sun rises over Cadillac Mountain before anywhere else in the country, so it’s a popular park attraction! 

Staying in Bar Harbor will put you about 15 minutes away. 

After sunrise, I suggest driving 15 minutes back into Bar Harbor for some breakfast! Try  Jordan’s Restaurant !

Insider Tip: To ensure you get parking, head there about an hour before sunrise. 

Hiking Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop

In the afternoon, head to  Jesup Path and Hemlock Path Loop !

It’s an AMAZING trail for seeing New England fall foliage.

The trail is only 1.5 miles round trip and pretty much flat the entire time. 

The loop takes about 30-60 minutes to complete, and you’ll walk along tall trees covered in color the entire time.

If you’re not up for going on Jesup, try one of these awesome things to do:

3-Hour Private Tour —Take a private tour that’ll bring you through the best of what the park has to offer including Park Loop Road, Cadillac Mountain, and Sand Beach!

Foodie Tour —Spend the afternoon exploring Bar Harbor and eat your heart out! This highly rated foodie tour will have you eating lobster rolls, crab cakes and more.

Bike Around —See all of Acadia’s best views by biking around! Rent an e-bike and you’ll get to explore the entire park on your own time all while enjoying a breezy ride through fall colors.

You can also just explore more of Bar Harbor!

Insider Tip: You don’t have to hike the entire Jesup Path if you don’t want to— turn around at any point!

Beehive Trail for Sunset

And now it’s time for sunset—hit that  Beehive Trail ! Make sure you wear sturdy hiking boots !

Beehive Trail is relatively short, sitting at about 1.5 miles round trip , and will take you up a cliffside where you’ll see coastal views and an ocean of fall colors .

You can make a loop out of the hike or turn around at the top of the main cliff.

When I hiked Beehive Trail, rather than making a loop out of it, I went to the top of the cliff and then back down the same way.

It was easier to navigate back to the car since the trail was pretty dark after the sun went down.

So pro tip, bring a headlamp for your sunset excursion! 

Insider Tip: I should also note that this hike includes ladders , which adds to the adventure, hehehehe, but if that scares you, then skip this trail.

Jordan Pond (Alternative)

An alternative would be to head to Jordan Pond and hike a 3.3-mile moderate loop around it.

You can get there by parking at the Jordan Pond parking lot on Park Loop Road.

Parking can get busy, so you’ll still have to get there early.

At Jordan Pond, you’ll get views of The Bubbles , two identical mountain formations that (you guessed it) look like bubbles—they’ll be covered in fall foliage!

Insider Tip: Tomorrow you won’t have to be anywhere until sunset for your leaf peeping New England adventure, BUT this will be a long driving day since you’ll be heading back to New Hampshire.

Day 7—Dixville Notch State Park (Best New England Fall Foliage Sunset Hike)

Day 7 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~4 hours)

• Morning: Relax and eat in Bar Harbor, Maine
• Afternoon: Drive to Dixville Notch State Park
• Evening: Visit Dixville Notch, hike Table Rock
• Stay: Northwoods House , Home with a View , Private Cabin

Dixville Notch is pretty out of the way, but trust me when I say the trail you’ll be exploring is a once-in-a-lifetime hike.

Colebrook, NH

Tonight, you’ll be staying in Colebrook, NH.

There isn’t a whole lot going on in this part of New Hampshire, but Colebrook will have everything you need to fuel up for the next leg of the trip.

Since you don’t have to be anywhere until sunset, you could take your time getting here .

However, you also could drive to Colebrook early (about 15min from Dixville Notch), check into your stay, get something to eat, then make your way towards your sunset hike: Table Rock.

Colebrook is a small town. Some shops and restaurants close early, so this may be a good time to stop at a grocery store for snacks or food you can eat in your hotel room!

Hiking Table Rock New Hampshire

It’s one of the best hikes for New Hampshire fall foliage, and it’s easy to see why—look at the pics! 

The view sits above Lake Gloriette and is a short 1.5-mile trail . 

The only downside to this hike is that it is relatively steep in a very short distance (about 750ft in elevation gain). If you’re weak on the knees, bring trekking poles .

The parking lot for Table Rock is SMALL—plan to be there about 1 to 1.5 hours before sunset. 

Getting to the trailhead early will give you more time to relax at the top! 

When you finish your hike, I suggest going to Colebrook and grabbing some dinner;  House of Pizza  is a popular food option.

Not in the mood for a hike? You can also make a pit stop at Lake Gloriette to have a shoreline view of the colors.

Insider Tip: I imagine Table Rock would look equally great for sunrise, so if that works out better for your New England fall road trip itinerary, you could go that route. 

Where to Stay in Colebrook

For accommodations, Vrbo could be your best bet. Check out these rentals:

Northwoods House ($$) —Stay in this cozy, updated home nestled in the woods! After you explore for the day, you can come back to this home away from home and watch Netflix while you snuggle up on your extra comfy king bed. Pet-friendly.

Home with a View ($$$) —Breakfast and panoramic views of fall colors? Sign me up! Enjoy incredible views of NH from above while you make breakfast, sit on the patio, or look out your window—pictures don’t do it justice.

Private Cabin ($$) —Escape to the woods in this private cabin. A great property to stay for the night while you fall asleep to the sounds of the running stream.

Insider Tip: Tomorrow you’ll be heading into Stowe, Vermont, which will be about a 2 hour drive, so you won’t have to be up super early to continue your leaf peeping New England adventure!

Day 8—Stowe, VT and Smugglers Notch

Day 8 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~3 hours)

• Morning: Drive to Stowe
• Afternoon: Explore Stowe, VT attractions
• Evening: Smugglers Notch
• Stay: The Stowehof Hotel , Timberholm Inn , Green Mountain Inn

I know I’ve talked about pumpkin spice, Gilmore Girls, and fall vibes a lot, but this place feels like it is meant to celebrate fall and ONLY FALL. You’ll see.

Things to do in Stowe, Vermont for Fall

There are plenty of things to do in Stowe, VT in the fall ! So let’s talk about ’em:

Eat —If you’re a veggie lover like me, then give Green Goddess Cafe a try! Not feelin’ in? Head to Piecasso pizza ! They even have vegan cheese you can sub with.

Get Lost in a Maze —The Percy Farm Corn Maze is the place to be if you want some spooooooooky fall vibes—ooooooo, enter if you daaaaAAAre.

Grab a Coffee — Black Cap Coffee and Beer is hipster AF, and we love it, but PK Coffee is where you’ll find a bomb @$$ apple crumble that tastes like an explosion of fall in your mouth—I will NEVER FORGET IT.

Sip on Some Cider —Did I mention you can drive to an APPLE CIDER MILL WHERE YOU CAN HAVE APPLE CIDER? Scott and I love Cold Hollow Cider Mill and would recommend it to anyone as a stop on their New England fall road trip itinerary.

Hop on a Zipline —get up close and personal with the fall foliage by hopping on one of the longest ziplines in the country!

Take a Brewery Tour —Enjoy some hard cider and locally brewed beers on a 5 hour, small group tour!

Click here to book your Stowe day tour!

Insider Tip: Want to see it all? Book an epic day tour that will take you to Smuggler’s Notch, the Cider Mill, Ben & Jerry’s, downtown Stowe, and the Outdoor Center at the Trapp Family Lodge for some epic views of the Green Mountains!

Smugglers’ Notch State Park

Most folks come here to explore Smuggler’s Notch Pass.

Smuggler’s Notch Pass goes through Vermont and has some fantastic New England views!

It’s well-known for its extremely windy road that bobs and weaves through endless fall colors in Vermont’s Green Mountains —don’t skip the drive!

You can spend a chill day in nature enjoying one of the Smuggler’s picnic areas.

To learn more about the park, visit  VTStateParks.com .

Insider Tip: If you want to hike around, check out Hellbrook Trail, Sterling Pond Trail, or Long Trail.

Where to Stay in Stowe, VT

Stowe is the place to book a BOUJIE hotel. This is a bucket list type town, and there are some beautiful resorts!

Check them out:

Timberholm Inn ($$) —The Timberholm Inn is tucked away in the Stowe mountains. This is the perfect place to get your cabin fix in a cozy environment that’ll put you in the middle of prime fall foliage! 

The Stowehof Hotel ($$) —Staying at The Stowehof will make you feel like you’re in a European country. The views here are spectacular, but the interior is extra special. The beautiful fireplaces and library you can enjoy will be the perfect places to rest up after a long day of exploring! Fab location too.

Green Mountain Inn ($$) —Located in Stowe’s Historic Center is this magical inn with an ornate lobby, romantic rooms, and a heated pool you’ll love! Being in the center of town will put you in the middle of all the action.

Insider Tip: If you want a shorter trip, check out my guide on a fall weekend in Vermont !

Day 9—Lake Placid and the Adirondacks

Day 9 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~3 hours)

• Morning: Drive to Adirondacks
• Afternoon: Explore Heart Lake or Indian Head
• Evening: See Lake Placid
• Stay: Crowne Plaza Lake Placid , Mirror Lake Inn , High Peaks Resort

The drive from Stowe, VT to the Lake Placid, NY area will be about 2 hours! This is outside of New England but it’s worth the drive.

Adirondacks

When you arrive, head into the High Peaks Wilderness and hike  Indian Pass and Heart Lake Loop Trail .

Heart Lake Loop is a little over a mile and is a GORGEOUS fall foliage hike! 

You can read about parking for the trailhead on the  Lake Placid website .

Another hike I highly recommend you do is  Indian Head and Rainbow Falls . It’s an easy 11mi hike that will lead to a stunning fjord-type formation surrounded by fall colors! 

After your hike, grab a caffeine fix at  Old Mountain Coffee Company  in Keene, NY. 

They sell chocolate bars there, and I have never had better chocolate—grab one!

Insider Tip: Alternatively, you can go to Mirror Lake and walk the shoreline—another popular destination in the area.

Lake Placid

Lake Placid, New York, is known for its access to the outdoors and, more notably, the winter Olympics—and it’s where you’ll stay for the night!

Mirror Lake sits in the town center.

When you get here, I recommend taking a walk in the downtown area.

It is quaint, cute, and ADORABLE in the fall and has lake views everywhere.

You can shop along Main Street, grab a pastry, or  rent a canoe  and coast along Mirror Lake.

OR, if you want an authentic New England fall foliage adventure, you can get a view of the foliage from above by booking a scenic flight with Payne’s Air Service.

Insider Tip: For food, I suggest capping off your last official day in your fall road trip in New England with a drink and some food at  Lisa G’s !

Woodstock, Vermont (Alternative)

If seeing the Adirondacks doesn’t feel like your vibe, I recommend staying in Stowe, VT, another night and taking a day trip to Woodstock, Vermont .

The drive will be about an hour.

You can enjoy more of Vermont’s fall foliage when you’re there and explore the quaint Woodstock area.

We’ll talk more about Woodstock, VT in our “BONUS” stops section—keep reading!

Insider Tip: Woodstock is also home to the Sleepy Hollow Farm—a must-see for spooky fall vibes!

Where to Stay in Lake Placid, NY

Like Stowe, Lake Placid has some amazing places to stay.

Here are my recommendations based on previous trips I took here:

Crowne Plaza Lake Placid ($$) —This amazing hotel includes all the amenities you need for an extra comfortable stay and has a GORGEOUS view overlooking Mirror Lake.

Mirror Lake Inn ($$$) —A fantastic property overlooking Mirror Lake that has the perfect spa to end your trip with. The entire time you’re there, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Adirondacks!

High Peaks Resort ($$) —Located right in the middle of all the action, this gorgeous resort has private beach access you can use to enjoy Mirror Lake and the surrounding foliage. Pet-friendly too!

Insider Tip: Tomorrow will be a travel day back to Albany, New York!

Day 10—Drive to Albany, NY

Day 10 in Sum (Total Drive Time: ~2 hours)

• Morning: Drive to Albany, NY
• Stay: Albany, NY, or depart

Now it’s time to wrap up our New England fall road trip!

Drive to Albany

This day is short and sweet.

You’ll be driving the 2-hour drive back to Albany, New York, where you might be departing, or you will stay the night and leave the next day. 

Either way, plan your travel accordingly!

If you have time to grab coffee before leaving Lake Placid, I suggest trying  The Coffee Bar !

The lake views here are *chef’s kiss* and will be a great way to cap off your leaf-peeping New England adventure.

Otherwise, that’s a wrap!

Let’s quickly discuss what this trip would look like if you started in Boston, MA.

Insider Tip: Additionally, you can head to the New York Catskills to see more fall foliage (covered in the bonus sections).

BONUS New England Fall Road Trip Itineraries

Let’s quickly go over the other ways you call pull this trip off.

After this, we’ll talk about bonus stops!

10-Day Fall Road Trip in New England Starting in Boston

Alternatively, you can arrive at the Boston-Logan International Airport and drive 2 hours to Conway, NH. 

This would mean your first night would be in Conway, NH. 

You would then proceed with days: 2 through 8 from the Albany itinerary.

Then, on day 9, head towards Boston and stop in Woodstock, VT.

Woodstock, VT is where you can see the Sleepy Hollow Farm. 

Finally, on day 10, you can explore Boston, MA, and prepare to depart!

The map below illustrates what your route would look like.

5 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Only have five days?

I recommend flying into Manchester, NH, and focusing your time and efforts on seeing New Hampshire and Vermont.

In that case, fly into Manchester, NH, and drive about 2 hours to Conway, NH.

With Conway as your hub, you can have a BLAST exploring the White Mountains (days 2 through 4) AND make a stop in Stowe, VT (day 8).

If you end in Stowe, you’ll have a 2.5-hour drive back to the Manchester area. 

3 Day Fall Foliage Trip

If you only have three days to work with, I suggest exploring New Hampshire fall foliage.

You can spend three days going around the White Mountains and have a fantastic time!

A road trip like this would look similar to days 2 through 4 on our extensive itinerary.

You’d fly into Manchester, NH, and stay in Conway, NH.

If you’re up for it, take a day trip to Stowe from Conway (about a 2.5-hour drive).

New England Fall Foliage Bonus Stops

Regardless of where you start your trip, you should know that there are plenty of unique places we didn’t cover!

Want to switch things up or add additional destinations to your fall road trips in New England?

This section is for you.

Sleepy Hollow Farm in Woodstock, VT

Spend an extra night in Stowe and take a day trip to Woodstock’s Sleepy Hollow Farm. It’s possibly one of the most photogenic farms in Vermont. The best part?

The farm is less than an hour from Stowe, so you don’t have to drive too far! 

If you can, I recommend exploring Woodstock during the day.

You’ll enjoy some hella New England vibes and great coffee (like at Soulfully Good Cafe ). 

Connecticut

If you’re looking to  switch it up , add Connecticut to your list!

During your East Coast fall road trip, you can opt to take Route 9 through the Connecticut River Valley. 

And if you want a unique way to see fall colors, ride on the historic  Essex Steam Train ! 

The Essex will take you on a scenic journey through some of Connecticut’s most beautiful fall views. 

For an authentic leaf-peeping New England experience,  try a fall foliage cruise  (available in other New England states too).

Portland, Maine

There is so much to do in Portland, Maine !

You can go apple picking or even take a tour of a Sugar House where a farmer will let you try some of their fresh maple syrup. 

For example, Merrifield Farm and Sugar Shack have maple cotton candy and fresh vanilla ice cream with maple syrup visitors can buy.

Of course, you can get pancakes here too!

AND…AND, if you want to have a real Portland, Maine experience, you can  book a fall foliage private sightseeing cruise . 

Honestly, I don’t think it gets any more New England than that.

Make sure you grab a lobster roll and head to Portland Head Light too!

Catskills, New York

This region ended up being one of my favorite spots during my fall road trips in New England!

The Catskill Mountains Scenic Byway is a great place to end your fall foliage adventure. 

Minnewaska State Park will make all your leaf-peeping dreams come true! For some of the better foliage views,  hike to Kaaterskill Falls . 

If you’re into cabin vibes, I suggest booking a stay in a luxe country home like this for the night.

It is spacious and has a hot tub, one of my favorite ways to end a long trip. 

The Lake Minnewaska area is about 2 hours from Albany airport.

Finger Lakes Area

In New York, I suggest visiting Taughannock Falls State Park or Watkins Glen at some point on your New England fall road trip itinerary. 

Both of these stops are in the Finger Lakes National Forest area.

It’s a bit out of the way, but it could be worth the visit if you want to explore more of New York.

You can also opt to visit the Seneca Lake area and do a whole  Seneca Lake Wine Tasting Tour . 

I have PACKED this New England fall road trip itinerary with some of my best fall color recommendations.

Whether you’re a fellow PSL lover or just a fan of autumn, I genuinely hope you enjoy your East Coast fall road trip! If you want to see more epic fall adventures, I recommend checking out my New England blogs!

If you enjoyed this blog, please share it on Pinterest !

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When is a great time to go in the fall?

Very helpful. Thanks a lot for posting this!

Amazing recommendations! Thank you so much for doing this!

Amazing post…Thanks for sharing…

Hi Dani, Help ,,, need your clarification please, is table rock – Dixville notch state park, is it located in New Hampshire or Vermont ? By any chance if you could remember what state highway or Interstate freeway you took, your help will be greatly appreciated and thank you in advance Sally

Your itinerary is a great help, we’ll follow your suggestion. Thanks for sharing and greatly appreciated !

Hi Dani, this is the best new england trip suggestion I’ve read. Thank you so much for sharing and appreciate every detail you put in!

I have used your New England itinerary for our upcoming fall color tour. However I am having a hard time printing it out. We are arriving inAlbany, New York via Amtrak and continuing on for your 10 day trip starting at the Berkshires and ending in Lake Placid. If you can would you be so kind as to email it to me so I can print it off. I want to follow most of your recommended places to visit and would like a printed copy( seniors, lol) to take along with us. We are leaving on 10-1 21 from Chicago. Any additional tips would be appreciated. Thanks so much.

Sandra Loerop

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I watched about 10 traveling videos this week trying decide where to go. And this post the best one by far best. Shows pics and personal videos, didn’t spend to much time on each place

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I'm a burrito loving explorer who got fired from corporate America and turned that into my dream career as a photographer and blogger. Now I'm here to help you explore life's magic. Thanks for stopping by!

Boston to Maine: 5-Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

This post contains affiliate links which means that I will make a small commission if you purchase a product after clicking on any of them, at no extra cost to you.

Fall is my absolute favorite time of the year! We don’t get to experience much of the lovely fall weather in Tampa , so it always feels like the perfect time to make a trip up north. New England is one of the best (and most popular) places to road trip in the fall!

There are so many activities available during this season! Go leaf peeping in New England or do an apple cider tour in Vermont. This fall road trip will take you from Boston to Portland Maine, making stops along the way that showcase some of these unique cities and towns!

We did our New road trip at the end of October and missed peak foliage. Nonetheless, we were still able to enjoy the colors of nature. Peak foliage varies year to year so use this foliage tracker to help you plan your fall road trip.

Table of Contents

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New England fall road trip itinerary

Day 1: drive from boston to maine with a pitstop in salem, massachusetts.

In order to avoid traveling from a different city or state the day our flight left from Boston, we decided it would be best to just head right to Maine and enjoy Boston on our final day. It’s just a short 2-hour drive from Boston to Maine, but first I suggest making a pitstop in Salem which is just 40 minutes outside of the city.

Salem’s historic reputation for witchcraft comes from the Salem witch trials of 1692, in which 20 people were tried and executed. Today, Salem is a tourist destination known for its Halloween celebrations, as well as its many attractions.

The city is also home to a number of historic sites, including the House of the Seven Gables, which was built in 1668. It’s one of New England’s most famous landmarks, and it’s also where Nathaniel Hawthorne set his novel “The House of the Seven Gables.”

We only had a few hours in Salem for our road trip, but fell so in love with this charming, spooky city! This may have been one of my favorite stops on our New England fall road trip.

Things to do in Salem, Massachusetts

• Take some pics at the Hocus Pocus filming locations . I mean it is a classic ! Most of the locations are pretty easy to get to, so I’d try to squeeze in a couple while you’re here. Here’s a list of where you can find all the spots.
• Visit The Witch House (The Jonathon Corwin House). It was home to Judge Jonathan Corwin (1640–1718) and is the only structure still standing in Salem with direct ties to the Salem witch trials of 1692. It’s open 7 days/week from 10 AM – 5 PM. Meaning if you have a mid-afternoon flight, this may be the first thing you want to do. Admission is $9 for adults.

• Check out the fun shops— just strolling around the downtown area is beyond pleasant. They have some super neat shops, including plenty of places to get a reading (you know I couldn’t resist!).
• Grab a bite and drink at The Roof . You’ll love this rooftop bar. We were even lucky enough to enjoy it under an eerie full moon! They have tacos, burritos, and bowls served alongside fun cocktails and shooters (or beer if you wish).
• We didn’t have the time, but if all of this hocus-pocus stuff intrigues you and you have some time to spare you can check out the Salem Witch Museum to learn more (adult admission is $16.50, and it’s open daily from 10 AM – 5 or 7 PM depending on the time of year). There are also some really interesting walking tours like the Voodoo, Vampires, and Ghosts Walking Tour or the Salem Night Walking Tour .

Once you’re done enjoying your time in Salem, head to your hotel in Portland. It’s just a little over an hour’s drive! We stayed at the Holiday Inn Portland – By the Bay .

🏨 Book your stay in Portland

With a great location in Portland, and just a short drive from Salem, Holiday Inn Portland By the Bay is the perfect place to stay in Portland!

Day 2: Portland, Maine

I’ve heard plenty of great things about Portland, and it lived up to the hype! I would love to go back to experience it during the summer months.

Portland is a diversified coastline area that welcomes guests with a variety of unique Maine experiences. You have access to it all—shopping, sailing, beaches, amazing restaurants, and more. This metropolis with a small-town feel is a cultural hotspot and a nature lovers’ paradise. It is home to craft breweries, ocean cruises, and a renowned culinary and cultural scene.

For the most part, we just took ourselves on a self-guided foodie tour and enjoyed strolling around this charming coastal city.

Things to do in Portland Maine

• Grab a cup of joe from  Bard Coffee . We were able to walk here from our hotel, and the weather was an absolute dream. The coffee was delicious! The inside wasn’t open at the time due to COVID restrictions, but it worked out because we snagged our coffee and strolled down the cobblestone streets to the next spot.

• Just a hop skip and a jump away from Bard Coffee is The Holy Donut (they have 3 locations, we went to the one on Commercial Street). This beloved local family-owned spot sells potato donuts with unique variations such as pomegranate, honey lavender, blueberry lemon, and several more! (It’s so funny to me that donuts seem to be just as much of a craze in Portland, Oregon as they are in Portland, Maine.)

• Visit Maine’s oldest lighthouse, the Portland Head Light at Fort Williams Park . With more than 90 acres of open space for enjoyment, there are options for picnics, kite flying, arboretum tours, cliffside loop walks, and exploring the rocky coastline. If you come hungry there are four food vendors (including Cousins Maine Lobster) selling lobster rolls, sandwiches, hot dogs, and gelato. The sights here were extraordinary. This ended up being my favorite thing we did in Portland!

• Grab some chowder and a lobster roll from Luke’s Lobster . You’ll love enjoying these Maine classics with stunning waterfront views. If you’re really hungry you can even order a whole steamed lobster!

• Check out some breweries and distilleries. We visited Oxbow Blending & Bottling  which offers a wide variety of draft and bottle beer from Oxbow and other guest breweries, as well as a unique collection of wine and Amaro. Next door is Hardshore Distilling where you can find some of the greatest and smoothest gin! I was shook at how good it was just to sip on, but they also can make you some fun cocktails with it if you’re not a sipper.
• Grab some frites from Duckfat which is conveniently located right outside of Oxbow Blending & Bottling. They offer a small menu that includes Belgian-style Frites that are hand-punched and twice-fried in duck fat.

Day 3: New Hampshire | Conway, Lincoln, and White Mountain National Forest

The drive from Portland to the White Mountain Forest is just a little over 2 hours. Driving through New Hampshire was an adventure on its own, we were in awe at the colors! Anything that piqued our interest we would just pull off and enjoy.

Because we had such limited time on this trip we did try to cram in as much as we could, however, I know this is only a glimpse into the many amazing fall activities to do in New Hampshire.

Things to do in New Hampshire

• Drive the Kancamagus Highway , a 34.5-mile road trip through New Hampshire’s White Mountain Forest ! The views are stunning; it’s worth taking your time here just to enjoy them. In addition to this scenic road trip route being amazing by itself, there are several points along this route where you can stop off at scenic overlooks with great photo ops.

• Lower Falls is one of the more popular scenic stops along the Kancamagus Highway. There is parking, a picnic area, and restrooms located here. During warmer months people can be found taking a dip in the watering hole.
• Just a few minutes drive separates you from the Albany Covered Bridge . The stream flowing beneath it and fall foilage surrounding it make it another amazing stop on the Kancamagus Highway.

• Eat dinner at The Common Man in Lincoln. We overstuffed ourselves, but it was worth every bite. Their Nantucket pie which includes shrimp, scallops, haddock, and Maine lobster meat baked with lobster cream sauce and seasoned Ritz crumbs gave me life.

We didn’t have time for hikes, but there are so many great ones in the area I definitely hope to have time for our next trip! Here are some popular ones along Kancamagus Highway you may want to check out:

• Diana’s Baths (1.3 miles)
• Flume Gorge (2.2-mile loop)
• Smugglers Notch State Park (several trails to choose from here)

We stayed overnight in Lincoln at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lincoln East – White Mountains . Holiday Inn Expresses are usually a little more affordable and always include breakfast which I love. It’s a great way to save a couple of bucks during your New England road trip.

Related read: This southeast USA road trip itinerary , Utah road trip itinerary , and Arizona road trip itinerary are three other great fall road trip options!

Day 4: Vermont | Stowe, Waterbury, and Burlington

Stowe, Waterbury, and Burlington are all great places to visit in Vermont in the fall! Stowe is a little less than 2 hours from Lincoln and has lush forests and rolling hills. A quick 20-minute drive from Stowe gets you to Waterbury which has charm, history, and beautiful valleys.

Just another 30 minutes outside of Waterbury you’ll find yourself on the eastern shoreline of Lake Champlain in Burlington, where Ben & Jerry’s originated.

Things to do in Vermont

• Drive around and admire the beauty of Stowe . Check out the Percy Farm Corn Maze . Don’t be intimidated when they make you exchange phone numbers in case you get lost. It was definitely one of the more challenging corn mazes I’ve ever done, but we made it out in a half an hour!

• Sip on cider slushies and hard cider at Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury . And of course, you can’t leave without snagging some cider donuts!

• Visit one of Vermont’s cutest gems, Burlington . Church Street Marketplace is an adorable award-winning pedestrian mall home to over 100 shops and restaurants, as well as year-round events, entertainment, and more! We enjoyed lunch at Leunig’s Bistro (the beef bourguignon was phenomenal) and drinks at Foam Brewers , Fiddlehead Brewing Company , and Shelburne Vineyard before heading to our hotel for the night.

Sometimes I reflect on how much we did in one day and it’s kind of wild. We covered three cities and didn’t feel rushed. Makes me second guess complaining there’s not enough time in the day when I can’t get 3 tasks done. We did only get just a taste of them (literally and figuratively), but I feel like what we did and saw were some of the best things to do in Vermont .

We ended up stopping at Molly’s Restaurant in Hanover and staying at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Manchester-Airport . It was 2 1/2 hours away from Burlington and less than an hour away from Boston (where we were heading the following morning).

Day 5: Boston

The final stop on our epic New England fall road trip! Boston is a pretty big city, with plenty to eat, see, and do and flooding with history. I’ve visited twice and don’t even feel like I’ve seen half of what this city has to offer yet! I’ve compiled a few of my favorite things to do in Boston, as well as some things that are still on my list!

Things to do in Boston

• Check out Beacon Hill— This is one of Boston’s most picturesque neighborhoods. The streets are lined with Federal-style and Victorian brick row houses lit by antique lanterns. Acorn Street is located here and it’s one of the most photographed streets in the city. Why you ask? It’s a charming original cobblestone street— something you don’t come across too often nowadays.
• Fenway Park— Go for a game, or just to snap a pic in front of this iconic spot. It’s the oldest of all current major league ballparks!
• Boston Public Library — The Boston Public Library is located in Copley Square, and let me tell ya it’s a stunner. If you’re like me and love a good library, it’s up there for one of the most beautiful and historic I’ve ever been to.

• Do a whale watching tour— If you are visiting Boston during whale watching season (April-October) then a whale watching tour is a must! Enjoy spotting humpback and fin whales, along with Atlantic white-sided dolphins from your high-speed catamaran.
• Freedom Trail — One of Boston’s most iconic things to do! Follow 2.5-mile Freedom Trail that leads to 16 nationally significant historic sites including Paul Revere House (the oldest remaining structure in downtown Boston), Boston Common (America’s oldest public park), Old State House (the oldest surviving public building in Boston), the Old North Church (if you have time, tour the crypt!) and several other historical locations. If you want to get the most out of your experience, they offer affordable guided tours !
• Prudential Center — Enjoy shopping and eating at this gorgeous enclosed shopping center. I especially recommend checking out Eataly! Copley Place is another stunning shopping center located right next door.
• Visit Cambridge— Wander Harvards’ campus, eat and play trivia at The Asgard, or check out one of their fun speakeasies A4cade (located in a grilled cheese shop and full of games) or Brick and Mortar (we actually really struggled to find this one!).

If you want to explore the city in a unique way check out Boston Duck Boat Sightseeing City Tour . You get to tour the city in a renovated World War II amphibious vehicle. The tour begins on the streets and then is taken to the Charles River for a view of the city by boat.

🚌 Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour

If you want a tour that allows you to get off and enjoy some of the stops while also receiving historical info and fun facts check out this 14-stop tour is for you.

Where to eat and drink in Boston

Here are some of my favorite bars and restaurants we got to experience in Boston!

• VERSUS — a super fun arcade bar!

• Citrus and Salt — a Baja-inspired restaurant with Mexican eats and fun, creative cocktails.

• Terra at Eataly—delight yourself with amazing Italian food and craft cocktails in this stunning eatery.

• Legal Sea Foods — best (ok, and only) whole lobster I’ve ever had! It was so unbelievably good, one of the best parts of it is the shrimp & scallop stuffing it was filled with. Also, let’s take a moment to admire all of the lobster in the lobster bisque. They have several locations throughout Boston.

• Trident Booksellers & Cafe —This place is so cozy and especially nice on one of Boston’s dreary days. Come here for good coffee and a good breakfast, and leave with a new book!

We didn’t get to check it out, but the Samual Adams Brewery is located in Boston too!

Are you ready to experience this epic Boston to Maine New England fall road trip?!

If you are looking for a road trip to do in the fall, New England is one of the best. From Boston to Portland, Maine and each stop in between has so much to offer. From beautiful views of rivers, falls, and mountains to great food and fun activities. I hope this post has given you some ideas for your epic fall road trip!

Destiny Snyder is a passionate travel blogger and content creator based in the Tampa Bay area. Originally from a small town near Toledo, Ohio, Destiny's love for exploring new places began when she moved to Florida in 2017. She enjoys uncovering hidden gems, sharing insider tips on the best things to do, places to eat, and coffee shops to visit in every destination. With her blog Guided by Destiny and niche sites Sunkissed in Tampa and Sunkissed in St. Pete, Destiny aims to make trip planning stress-free and fun for her readers.

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If I follow this itinerary what states am I staying in what nights ? Thank you .

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New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary: 10 Stunning Stops

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: August 23, 2021

There are many places in the world you can see leaves turn in Autumn, but they pale in comparison to one famed and celebrated region in the US northeast where science, nature and climate combine to put on an extraordinary light show each year. We are of course talking about fabled New England and we’re going to show you 10 places you can’t miss when planning your New England fall foliage road trip, with 5 day itinerary, 7 day itinerary and 10 day itinerary examples included to help you nail down the best possible route for your trip.

We will use our first hand experiences from road tripping New England in fall to bring you tips, advice and unmissable stops to take on your visit. This is one of those true bucket list USA road trip experiences in which it pays to be organized, plan effectively and make the most of every day.

So, let’s get stuck into those 10 unmissable stops and planning your perfect New England fall foliage road trip itinerary!

The Science Behind Fall Colors

What do we know about the changing of colors to give ourselves the best chance of being in the right place at the right time?

Well, we know that fall colors peak furthest north and work southward through the latitudes. So for example, the Blue Ridge Parkway in Virginia and North Carolina is gorgeous in fall, but the colors won’t change there until much later in the season.

Also, we know elevation plays an important role in when peak colors will be on display. Colors will change first in mountainous regions of Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont before they do at lower elevations.

But the most important aspects are weather conditions leading into Autumn, and amount of daylight. It all starts way back in Spring! A late Spring or intense Summer drought can potentially delay peak fall colors by a week or two.

Conditions Affecting Predictions For Peak Fall Colors

In addition to elevation, latitude and weather conditions before fall, there are more specific conditions that can affect peak fall once we actually reach Autumn:

• Soil moisture levels
• Amount of sunlight during the day
• Length of night
• Day and night temperature (important)

So what would constitute as perfect conditions for the best chance at ‘peak’ fall colors being their most radiant and predictable?

• Wet and warm Spring conditions
• Summer without drought or unusually high / low temperatures
• Warm Autumn days and cool but not freezing nights

And what causes the colors to change once conditions are right?

Sunlight pumps leaves full of chlorophyll during Spring and Summer. Once daylight wanes in Autumn, so does the amount of chlorophyll.

That leaves room for other pigments in the leaves, such as anthocyanin and carotenoids to shine.

Why Focus On VT, NH, ME and Even NY

The region of New England technically contains 6 states; Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont. In fall, this entire region transforms into an adventure playground for leaf-peeping lovers and passionate photographers.

However, there are three New England states among the six that we feel just have to be prioritized for the very best scenery and most radiant colors; New Hampshire, Maine and in particular Vermont.

But we’re also going to throw a curve ball by including a region not technically part of New England (gasp!) … New York’s Adirondack Mountains are a stone’s throw from the border with Vermont and the colors are just as special.

We want you to see the best places in New England when you take your fall road trip, but we would prefer you to see the best colors. That means skipping the likes of Boston, Portland and Providence on this particular visit to the northeast.

They’re all awesome places and we visited them all on our New England road trip in fall. But they don’t have the colors of rural Vermont and New Hampshire, plus we had days to spare.

Here’s why you should focus on the northern parts of New England for a fall foliage road trip:

Vermont’s rolling hills are overflowing with charming rural towns, barns and covered bridges. But the state is 80% covered in forest and that can only mean one thing; spectacular fall foliage everywhere you look.

Further Reading: The best places to visit in Vermont

New Hampshire

New Hampshire mixes excellent hiking options in stunning mountainous areas with staggeringly beautiful fall foliage colors.

It also has one of the best mini road trip routes in New England during fall – the Kancamagus Highway.

Maine is huge. It is much bigger than the other New England states and that means it’s hard to fit most of the northern parts in to your road trip. Unless you have more than 2 weeks of course.

However, Acadia National Park is one of the very best places you can visit in all of New England in fall so if you have the spare time, it’s hard to skip.

New York’s Adirondack Mountains, including Winter olympic town Lake Placid and its surroundings are beautiful in Autumn. The popular mountainous region is incredibly popular thanks to a host of activities and of course glorious foliage colors.

When Should You Plan Your New England Road Trip For Peak Fall Colors?

It is impossible to plan the perfect ‘peak’ fall road trip itinerary in New England. You would need to be in many places at the same time for that to be possible. We’re not quite there, yet!

Historically, the last 2 weeks of September and the first 2 weeks of October are when the colors change. So that would put October 1st in the middle of that and therefore a ‘peak’ fall foliage target.

Science tells us that colors change in the North and at elevation first, eventually working South and to lower levels.

We’ll get into example itineraries below, but here are some rough dates to use for each itinerary time frame working North to South:

• 5 Day New England Fall Road Trip – We would suggest aiming for September 29 through October 3.
• 7 Day New England Fall Road Trip – Add a day either side, so September 28 through October 4.
• 10 Day New England Fall Road Trip – Add a day before and two after, so September 27 through October 6.
• 14 Day New England Fall Road Trip – Add a day before and three after, so September 26 through October 9.

Should You Book Your Trip In Advance?

Here are two scenarios:

• You don’t book in advance and keep an eye on live fall foliage updates to guarantee hitting peak fall. This also means you have flexibility on bad weather days. However, there are very limited hotels available and those that do have rooms will be more expensive.
• You plan and book your whole trip in advance, getting good value in hotels and can relax. But there’s a chance you won’t time it just right and you will have to deal with whatever weather comes your way.

We can’t offer a ‘better’ solution here because both have pros and cons.

Our trip was mainly booked in advance which meant we spent less but we had to put up with a lot of disappointing rain days, as you will see in the photos below!

Need a hand planning your New England fall road trip? Our popular 40+ page New England Fall Road Trip Guidebook includes the 10 best places to visit, 8 example itineraries ranging from 5-14 days and an extensive interactive map to help you plan a successful leaf-peeping vacation.

Top Tips For Planning Your New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Finally, before we jump into the 10 unmissable stops and the New England fall road trip itineraries, let’s have a quick look at some important tips to consider when planning your vacation:

• New England is insanely popular in fall.
• Booking accommodation in advance will save you a lot of money.
• Carefully plan where you want to spend each night based around hikes and photography.
• Start in the North and work South through New England.
• Expect frequent rain and clouds in fall and accept that there’s nothing you can do about it!
• Always carry loads of water and snacks in the car.
• Try to find elevated vantage points as often as possible.
• Some of the best and most unique fall photos are along rural country roads.
• You need multiple spare batteries for your camera!
• You can use a drone in many parts of New England for aerial photography.
• Don’t worry if you miss ‘peak’ colors.

Our popular road trip resources:

• Road trip packing list essentials
• How to plan the perfect road trip

10 Places You Can’t Miss On The Best New England Fall Road Trip

Let’s take a closer look at the 10 stops we think are unmissable on a first New England trip to see the fall colors.

1. Lake Placid, New York

Lake Placid of 1980 Winter Olympics ‘Miracle on Ice’ fame is located at the heart of New York’s revered Adirondack Mountains. It is the perfect base for adventure activities throughout all four seasons, from hiking in Summer to skiing in Winter.

The charming town of Lake Placid is an incredibly popular centralized location for leaf peeping in the Adirondacks. As a result, hotels here are in high demand and not cheap from the end of September until mid October. We know from experience when our bank balance took a mighty hit!

Walk around Mirror Lake in town for the easiest way to soak up gorgeous fall colors. If you have time and enjoy challenging hikes, you can’t miss Mount Marcy. It isn’t the prettiest trail but it is the tallest peak in New York.

Things To Do In Lake Placid, NY

• Take a relaxing walk around serene Mirror Lake.
• Visit the Olympic ski jumping complex.
• Photograph John Brown barn.
• Drive to the summit of Whiteface Mountain.
• Take the Cloud Splitter cable car to Little Whiteface.
• Walk through picturesque High Falls Gorge.
• Hike Mount Marcy, the tallest peak in New York.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Lake Placid, NY

• Mirror Lake in town is gorgeous, walk through residential areas surrounded by colorful trees.
• John Brown barn is a hidden gem for fall colors.
• The top of the ski jump provides sweeping views over the Adirondacks.
• Mount Marcy summit is the highest point in the entire region, providing the best views over rolling hills.
• Whiteface Mountain and Little Whiteface offer more stunning views of fall foliage.

Read our Lake Placid guides for more information:

• 10 best things to do in Lake Placid NY
• Mount Marcy complete hiking walkthrough
• 8 best hotels in Lake Placid NY

2. Burlington, Vermont

Burlington in Vermont might not be the first place you think of for a New England fall foliage road trip destination. However, it is one of the easiest places outside of Boston to fly into the region if you are visiting from further afield.

The small town also happens to be filled with beautiful and radiant foliage colors at every turn. From lakeside bike paths to park towers with stunning views, Burlington is the perfect stop off between Lake Placid and the more famous foliage destination of Stowe.

Hotels in downtown Burlington can be limited and expensive in Autumn, so if you are visiting New England on a budget, try looking for hotels in surrounding villages and towns.

Things To Do In Burlington, VT

• Eat, drink and soak up the atmosphere along Church Street.
• Walk through Waterfront Park alongside Lake Champlain.
• Cycle the Burlington bike path to Grand Isle.
• Explore Ethan Allen Homestead and Museum.
• Stand on top of Ethan Allen Tower for amazing views.
• Taste chocolate at Lake Champlain Chocolates flagship store.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Burlington, VT

• Anywhere along the Lake Champlain waterfront where there are trees.
• Ethan Allen Park and the top of the tower in particular have the best fall foliage views in Burlington.
• Ethan Allen homestead and museum are surrounded by beautifully colorful trees.

Read more about Burlington:

• 10 best things to do in Burlington VT
• 8 best hotels in Burlington VT

3. Stowe, Vermont

Stowe is one of the unmissable fall foliage classics on any New England road trip. The white church in town is one of the most photographed churches in the US and almost all of those photographs are taken in fall.

The town is quaint and attractive but be sure to spend the majority of your time up in Stowe Mountain Resort. This is where you will find hikes, Mt Mansfeld, waterfalls and Smugglers Notch.

Colors will change first up in the higher elevations. So, if you’re a little early, head up to the resort. On the other hand, if you’re a little late, stick to the lower elevations around Stowe town for the most vibrant colors.

Personally, we love to hike, we like flying our drone and we enjoy photographing waterfalls. Stowe was one of the best stops on our New England fall road trip circuit for allowing us to do all of those things.

Things To Do In Stowe, VT

• Photograph the famous white church in Stowe town.
• Drive or hike to the summit of Mount Mansfield.
• Drive through stunning Smugglers Notch pass.
• Ride a bike along Stowe Rec Path or Lamoille Valley.
• Take the SkyRide Gondola to Mt Mansfield.
• Hike a wide range of awesome trails.
• Visit both Bingham Falls and Moss Glen Falls.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Stowe, VT

• In Stowe town, the iconic white church backed by a hill of fall colors is unmissable on your New England road trip.
• But the best colors are in Stowe Mountain Resort. The drive up from town is gorgeous.
• No matter how you get to the top of Mt Mansfield, you can guarantee spectacular fall foliage views.
• Smugglers Notch is our top recommendation for Stowe. If you have a drone, this is the place to fly.

Read more about Stowe, Vermont:

• 15 best things to do in Stowe VT
• 12 best hotels in Stowe VT

4. Woodstock, Vermont

Woodstock in central Vermont is arguably the most picturesque and charming town you will visit on your New England fall road trip itinerary. It truly is like something out of a fairytale. We had no choice but to include Woodstock in our popular guide to the 50 best places to visit in the USA .

Remarkably pretty farms with golden leaves dancing in sunlight and reddish-brown leaves covering the ground create picture perfect scenes. Sleepy Hollow Farm and Jenne Road Farm are featured on many fall foliage calendars you will see in shops on your visit to New England.

Don’t miss the many stunning historic covered bridges around Woodstock. Middle covered bridge is right in town, Taftsville and Quechee are very close by and Cornish-Windsor is a 30 minute drive. The beautiful bridge in the photo below is a privately owned bridge near South Woodstock on the main road to Jenne Farm.

Woodstock is one of the more expensive places to visit on a road trip through Vermont, but it is worth taking a hit on the extra chunk of budget. Simply driving around the narrow country roads near Woodstock for a few hours would provide enough fall foliage colors to last a week of photography.

Things To Do In Woodstock, VT

• Walk around the charming town and admire diverse architectural styles.
• Photograph two postcard perfect farms – Jenne Road Farm and Sleep Hollow Farm.
• Visit a host of historic and stunning covered bridges.
• Explore Marsh Billings Rockefeller Park and hike to amazing viewpoint overlooking Woodstock.
• Visit nearby Quechee Gorge and village.
• See Jersey dairy cows at Billings Farm and Museum.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Woodstock, VT

• Woodstock is incredibly photogenic during fall throughout the town and immediate surroundings.
• The lookout over Woodstock from Mount Tom hike is iconic fall photography.
• The best two fall photographs in Woodstock are at Jenne Road Farm and Sleepy Hollow Farm. They are two truly unmissable stops on your New England fall road trip itinerary.
• Drive your car around the narrow rural roads near Woodstock for some of the most special colors.

Read more about Woodstock, Vermont:

• 15 best things to do in Woodstock VT
• 7 best hotels in Woodstock VT

5. Manchester, Vermont

Similarly to Stowe, Manchester is a four season resort with skiing in Winter and hikes during Spring or Summer. In fall, the town located in the heart of Green Mountain National Forest transitions into a colorful paradise for leaf-peepers.

Manchester can be split into the old historic district and the newer modern resort town. The newer part is livelier and closer to amenities but the historic district is quieter, prettier and more colorful.

Use Manchester as a base for one night to explore nearby elevated areas for some of the most expansive views of rolling hills on a New England fall road trip.

Equinox Mountain is the tallest peak in the area. You can hike it or drive it to open up far-reaching views over three US states. But our top tip is to simply stick to the narrow country roads again and you will find more unique fall foliage photographs.

Things To Do In Manchester, VT

• Drive the Skyline Auto Toll Road to Mount Equinox summit.
• Explore Hildene, the Lincoln Family Home.
• Walk around quaint Manchester Historic Village District.
• See the American Museum of Fly Fishing Museum exhibits.
• Buy a book in popular Northshire bookstore.
• Visit nearby covered bridges.
• See the Bennington Battle Monument.
• Visit Robert Frost stone house museum.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Manchester, VT

• Manchester is the heart of the Green Mountains, so the entire area surrounding the town is staggeringly attractive.
• Rolling hills for endless miles covered in glowing fall colors can be seen from any elevated vantage point.
• Equinox Mountain summit provides the best panoramic views over three states.
• Another place you jump in the car and find unique fall photography opportunities on rural roads.
• Manchester Historic Village District is leafy and the church is surrounded by golden yellow leaves.

Read more about Manchester, Vermont:

• 15 best things to do in Manchester VT
• 9 best hotels in Manchester VT

6. Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

Franconia Notch is one of New Hampshire’s premier tourist regions for hiking, picturesque mountains, skiing and of course fall foliage. A two lane highway mountain pass dissects the Kinsman and Franconia mountain ranges, with a number of fantastic recreational stops along the way.

Artists Bluff is a very short but steep hike leading to a rocky ledge. Its summit overlooks Echo Lake and is most popular in fall when the colors change. As you can see, we hiked the trail on an incredibly cloudy and grey day, which doesn’t help with highlighting the beauty of this viewpoint. We have included Artists Bluff in our popular guide to the 50 best hikes in the US .

Franconia Notch State Park is where you will find the stunning Flume Gorge hike. A little over 2 miles of waterfalls, narrow gorges and forested paths welcome thousands of visitors each year. For us, the best part of Flume Gorge were the two ultra-photogenic covered bridges; Flume and Sentinel Pine.

Things To Do In Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

• Hike the short but steep trail to Artists Bluff summit for stunning views.
• Walk through impressive and extremely popular Flume Gorge.
• Hike Cannon Mountain or take the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway.
• See a whole host of waterfalls or hike one of a dozen other mountain trails.
• Ski Cannon Mountain Resort in Winter.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire

• The single most well known fall foliage photograph in Franconia Notch NH is from the summit of Artists Bluff.
• However, don’t miss the chance to walk through the incredibly picturesque Flume Gorge in fall.
• Not only are the colors vibrant, but waterfalls are attractive and two special covered bridges are incredibly photogenic.
• Anywhere at elevation, which means every hike up a mountain side or the tramway with sweeping valley views.

Read more in our Franconia Notch guides:

• Artists Bluff Trail Fall Foliage Hike
• Flume Gorge Complete Hiking Walkthrough

7. Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s supremely scenic Kancamagus Highway is one of the very best parts of New England to road trip in fall foliage season. We would put it firmly in the category of ‘unmissable’.

The road between Lincoln and Conway NH is only 35 miles long, but it 35 miles of pure foliage bliss. You can either drive it in one go and simply soak up the colors roadside. Or you can stop at a multitude of overlooks, hiking trails, waterfalls, lakes and covered bridges.

If there’s one part of your New England road trip itinerary to time it right for peak foliage colors, you would do well to beat the Kancamagus Highway in its prime.

A note for photographers and videographers – You can use your drone in many parts of the Kancamagus Highway. We captured amazing photographs and videos of endless miles over rolling hills covered in radiant color.

Things To Do On Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

• Stop at various high elevation overlooks with spectacular views over White Mountain National Forest.
• Walk to Sabbaday Falls, Champney Falls and Lower Falls.
• Hike Lincoln Woods or Mount Chocorua.
• Walk out on Rocky Gorge boulders.
• Photograph Russell-Colbath House and the picture perfect Albany Covered Bridge.
• Explore ponds and lakes to your hearts content.

Where To See Fall Foliage On Kancamagus Highway, New Hampshire

• Views over rolling hills from every overlook are astonishing in fall.
• Once the Kancamagus Highway reaches its highest elevation, you will see an ocean of color in all directions.
• Walk through any forest trail or along any waterfall hike to immerse yourself into those foliage colors.
• Albany covered bridge is one of the most picturesque bridges you will find in New England.
• Rocky Gorge and nearby lake with reflecting fall colors are wonderful.
• Even on both ends of the road in Lincoln (Loon Mountain) and Conway the colors are vibrant.

Read more about the Kancamagus Highway:

• 13 best places to stop along the Kancamagus Highway in fall

8. Mount Washington, New Hampshire

At 6,288 ft tall, Mount Washington is the tallest peak in Northeastern United States. It is renowned for wild and unpredictable weather, including the recording of a world record wind speed over over 230 mph.

As our images indicate, Mount Washington can be very wet and cloudy in Autumn. But if you get slightly more luck on your road trip and time it on a sunny day, you will enjoy some of the most beautiful colors and scenery in the entire region.

Avid hikers can climb to the summit, otherwise you can take a historic cog rail train or drive up an auto toll road to reach the top. Views from almost 2,000 meters high over an ocean of bright colors are incredible.

Things To Do Around Mount Washington, New Hampshire

• Hike a very challenging but rewarding trail to the summit of Mount Washington.
• Consider a night hike, fall colors won’t matter in the dark but it is hugely popular for astro and sunrise photography.
• Alternatively, drive the Mt Washington Auto Road to the summit.
• Or, take the most scenic and historic route to the top – by Cog Railway.
• Conway scenic railroad nearby ventures deep into fall foliage forest.
• Endless miles of hiking, 100 waterfalls and a handful of covered bridges to discover.
• Crawford Notch State Park is close by and features more views, hikes and waterfalls.

Where To See Fall Foliage Around Mount Washington, New Hampshire

• Just gain elevation in the White Mountains and you’ll open up valley views with a sea of foliage colors.
• Mt Washington summit is the iconic NH vantage point for sweeping Autumnal vistas.
• For a unique experience, the Conway Scenic Railroad cuts through some of the best colors in NH.
• Crawford Notch State Park is stunning in fall, with fantastic valley views from hikes.

9. Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

Heading due South of Mt Washington you will find Lake Winnipesaukee encircled by gorgeous fall foliage colors. Unfortunately for us, the rain was back in full swing but you can still see how vibrant the colors are in this area.

You can drive an 81 mile loop road around the entirety of the lake, or take to the waters aboard M/S Mount Washington cruise boat.

Visit Castle in the Clouds for family entertainment and hiking, Weirs Beach for arcades or Wolfeboro for a more relaxing experience. The most popular trail in the area is Mount Major, which we highly recommend for hikers looking for excellent views over the lake.

Things To Do Around Around Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

• Take a cruise on the M/S Mount Washington.
• Or rent a boat of your own for the day.
• Ride the Lake Winnipesaukee scenic railroad.
• Try your hand at arcade games in Weirs Beach.
• Hike the popular half day trail to Mount Major summit for fantastic lake views.

Where To See Fall Foliage Around Lake Winnipesaukee, New Hampshire

• Elevation is your fall foliage friend around the lake if you want expansive views.
• Mt Major is the perfect moderate hike to include on your New England fall road trip itinerary.
• But nearby Belknap Mountain is also a popular choice for fall hikers.
• Gunstock Mountain Resort has zip lines and ski lifts for easy elevation gain.
• For easier and more close up Autumnal color vistas, simply hire a boat on the lake and explore.
• Or sit back, relax and soak up the views on Lake Winnipesaukee scenic railroad foliage tour.

10. Acadia National Park, Maine

Acadia finds itself in the list of top 10 most visited and best US National Parks each year. Millions of tourists descend on Bar Harbor annually to enjoy a diverse range of amazing things to do inside the awesome park.

Varied hikes suitable for all ages and abilities, including the famous adrenaline pumping climbs Beehive Trail and Precipice Trail , are a huge draw. But despite being a typical Summer destination in the north of America, Acadia is equally as popular in Autumn and that is purely down to its glowing fall foliage colors.

Sunrises from Cadillac Mountain or Schoodic Point can be extraordinarily beautiful if conditions are right, and sunset at Bass Harbor Head Light is a very highly regarded spectacle. You will need to bring your best hiking gear, spare camera batteries and a lot of energy to the wonderful National Park in Maine.

The only problem you will face with including Acadia on a New England fall foliage road trip is its location. You will have a long drive to and from Acadia from Vermont or New Hampshire. However, if you have the time, it is unquestionably worth the extra effort.

Things To Do In Acadia National Park, Maine

• Hike various amazing trails from easy to hard (to exhilarating!).
• Photograph stunning sunrises, landscapes and Bass Harbor Head Light.
• Drive to Cadillac Mountain summit, the tallest peak on the US east coast.
• Walk or cycle maze-like carriage roads through the park.
• Explore Jordan Pond and swim in Echo Lake.
• Eat and drink in glitzy Bar Harbor, Maine.

Where To See Fall Foliage In Acadia National Park, Maine

• Mountain summits from any hike opens up special views over rolling hills covered in fall colors.
• Carriage roads are the perfect way to explore forested trails which are surrounded by trees.
• Drive the national park loop road for easiest access to fall colors.
• Jordan Pond in particular is encircled by vibrant autumnal hues.
• Cadillac Mountain summit opens up 360 degree views over Maine and the ocean.

Read our Acadia National Park guides to learn more:

• 17 best things to do in Acadia National Park
• 10 hikes you can’t miss in Acadia National Park
• Where to stay in Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park
• 10 key things to know about visiting Acadia in the fall

Planning Your New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

New England is an enormous region and choosing exactly where to visit can be challenging. Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you begin plotting a route:

• Which places are top of your list? Vermont? New Hampshire? Acadia?
• How many days can you spare on your trip?
• Do you want to book accommodation in advance or take it day by day?
• Are you in New England solely to see and photograph fall colors?
• Or are you focused primarily on hiking with colors as an added bonus?
• Do you want to use small and quaint towns as your main places to stay?
• Or are you more interested in being rural and remote each night?
• What is your budget? Can you afford to splurge on activities?

Once you have an idea about how you see your road trip panning out, use that idea as a guide to make the best decisions based on your travel style.

Next, we will go through a number of potential scenarios for 5 day, 7 day and 10 day road trip examples through New England in fall.

Use the examples as a reference but remember, they are generic and based on how we personally would plan our itineraries with hikes and photography in mind.

5 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

Only having 5 days isn’t as much of a negative as it might usually be. Yes, you are going to have to be selective and it is going to be none stop action. But one of the major benefits to a road trip in fall is that all of the best scenery is seen when driving.

Also, the smaller states of Vermont and New Hampshire don’t require a huge amount of drive time between their most scenic places for fall foliage. Include Lake Placid in the Adirondacks and you can easily tick off most of the places in our list in 5 days.

Another consideration is with just 5 days you don’t need to worry as much about ‘following’ peak fall colors. They won’t change too much in that time frame when compared to 10 days.

Example 1 – Lake Placid NY to Manchester VT

D1 – Lake Placid : Walk around Mirror Lake, drive up Whiteface Mountain and explore High Falls Gorge. Stay in Lake Placid.

D2 – Burlington and Stowe : Walk down Church Street, cycle Burlington bike path, explore Smugglers Notch and Stowe Mountain Resort, sunset at Stowe church. Stay in Stowe.

D3 – Franconia Notch and Kancamagus Highway : Hike artists bluff trail, walk around Flume Gorge, drive Kancamagus Highway and down to Wolfeboro. Stay in Wolfeboro on Lake Winnipesaukee.

D4 – Lake Winnipesaukee and Woodstock VT : Spend morning exploring the lake or hike Mt Major, then drive to Woodstock in Vermont via Cornish-Windsor covered bridge, Quechee Gorge and Taftsville covered bridge.

D5 – Woodstock and Manchester : Visit the farms near Woodstock, drive through Green Mountains to Manchester and end at the top of Equinox Mountain.

You could start and end in New York City if flying into Newark or JFK works from your origin and budget. Alternatively, Montreal would be a better place to start for Lake Placid, hire a car and drop it off in NYC or Boston after leaving Manchester, VT.

Example 2 – Lake Winnipesaukee NH to Manchester VT

D1 – Lake Winnipesaukee : Explore the lake, hike Mt Major, take a cruise and stay in Wolfeboro.

D2 – Kancamagus Highway and Franconia Notch : Drive Conway to Lincoln across Kancamagus Highway, hike Flume Gorge and Artists Bluff. Sleep in Franconia.

D3 – Stowe and Burlington : Stowe church, hike to waterfalls in Stowe Mountain Resort, drive Smugglers Notch and on to Burlington. Ride the bike path for sunset. Stay in Burlington.

D4 – Lake Placid : Whiteface Mountain, High Falls Gorge, Ski Jump and Mirror Lake. Or hike Mount Marcy instead but that is a full day commitment. Stay in Lake Placid.

D5 – Woodstock and Manchester : Visit the farms, covered bridges and drive through Green Mountain countryside to Manchester, finish with Equinox Mountain again.

This version would allow for a round trip loop from Boston, MA airport or Portland, ME airport.

The key to making the most of this shorter trip is to accept that you will be in the car driving a lot but that is where you will see most of the best scenery.

7 Day / One Week New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

With a week, you can get more creative, include more places or take things slower. You have more flexibility but still not enough time to add a trip to Acadia, unless you really can’t miss it and don’t mind the driving.

Colors can change a noticeable amount in 7 days, so (if possible!) factor in starting your one week trip just before ‘peak’ begins.

Either of the 5 day examples above would work with 7 days by simply taking more time in certain spots. The alternative is to add in more places to visit. Let’s look at both:

Example 1 – Lake Winnipesaukee NH to Manchester VT

D2 – Kancamagus Highway : Take the awesome road trip slowly, stop at every attraction and stay in Loon Mountain or Lincoln.

D3 – Franconia Notch and Stowe : Hike Flume Gorge and Artists Bluff before driving to Stowe to photograph the church. Hike the waterfall trails and see Smugglers Notch. Stay in Stowe.

D4 – Burlington and Lake Placid : Church Street and Burlington bike path, then drive to Lake Placid, get stuck into the best bits of Lake Placid and spend the night there.

D5 – Lake Placid and Woodstock : Spend the morning in Lake Placid and drive to Woodstock later in the day. Hike to Mount Tom for amazing views over Woodstock. Stay in Woodstock.

D6 – Woodstock : Sunrise at Sleepy Hollow Farm, Jenne Road Farm, visit the nearby covered bridges and relax in town. Drive to Manchester later in the day to stay over.

D7 – Manchester : Hildene, Manchester old town and stunning Green Mountain country roads, finish at Equinox Mountain.

This variation could begin and end at either Boston, MA or Portland, ME as in the itinerary above. It just gives you more downtime and time to fully explore the places you will visit.

Example 2 – Manchester VT to Lake Winnipesaukee NH

D1 – Manchester : Drive from Boston airport to Manchester, spend the day at Hildene, Equinox Mountain and exploring the town. Stay in Manchester.

D2 – Woodstock : See the best of Woodstock and spend the night.

D3 – Stowe : Hit the top highlights in Stowe and stay there for the night.

D4 – Mount Washington : Take the cog train, drive to the summit or even take on the hike. Sleep in North Conway.

D5 – Kancamagus Highway : Spend a full day on The Kanc. Sleep in Loon Mountain or Lincoln.

D6 – Franconia Notch : Hike Flume Gorge and Artists Bluff but drive to Lake Winnipesaukee later to spend the night.

D7 – Lake Winnipesaukee : Spend the last day around the lake, cruising, hiking or relaxing.

This loop direction was reversed to give an idea about how you could make it work in a clockwise route. Again this would be starting and ending in Boston or Portland, with JFK or Newark as alternative options.

Instead of driving out to Lake Placid, you could stick to Vermont and New Hampshire, which is where the very best colors are found.

10 Day New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary

With a full 10 days to spend on your New England fall road trip, you can either max out your itinerary and see all of the best bits or choose to spend more time in fewer places.

Personally, we’re the max out itinerary type and we would definitely include Acadia National Park in our 10 days. It adds in some serious driving time but the journey there is picturesque, rural and most importantly colorful.

Here’s one way you can include each of the places mentioned in this list, including Acadia National Park (this is the way we drove but we spent 14 days doing this route with other non-fall foliage places included in our itinerary):

Example 1 – Lake Placid, NY to Manchester, VT via Acadia National Park, ME

D1 – Lake Placid : Spend the day hiking and surrounded by gorgeous colors. Sleep Lake Placid.

D2 – Burlington : Full day exploring town and cycle the entire bike path to Grand Isle. Stay in or near Burlington.

D3 – Stowe : Smugglers Notch, Mountain Resort, Mt Mansfield and church in town. Stay in Stowe.

D4 – Franconia and Kancamagus Highway : Hike Artists Bluff and Flume Gorge, drive The Kanc and sleep in North Conway.

D5 – Mt Washington and drive to Acadia : Drive to the summit or take the cog train before driving US-2 all the way to Acadia. Sleep in Bar Harbor.

D6 – Acadia : Sunrise Cadillac Mountain, Hike Acadia Mountain and Beech Mountain, sunset at Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. Stay in Bar Harbor.

D7 – Acadia : Sunrise Schoodic Point, Hike Beehive Trail and Precipice Trail, Walk around Jordan Pond, Great Ocean Path and carriage roads by bike to see the best fall colors. Final night in Bar Harbor.

D8 – Lake Winnipesaukee : Final morning in Acadia, long drive to Wolfeboro and explore Lake Winnipesaukee.

D9 – Woodstock : Photograph Sleepy Hollow and Jenne Road, hike to Mt Tom, see covered bridges.

D10 – Manchester : Hildene, Mount Equinox, nearby Bennington battle monument and covered bridges.

Tips For The 10 Day Itinerary

The only concern with this itinerary is the inclusion of Acadia National Park. It’s a 4 hour drive from Mt Washington to Acadia and 4 hours 20 minutes back from Acadia to Wolfeboro.

However, if you do have more time you can include stops on the way to and from Acadia to break up the longer drives. US-1 and US-2 are picturesque but slow going. If you’re pushed for time, take the less scenic but faster I-95 instead.

Alternatively, if you’re not so bothered by Acadia, plan to spend even more time in each of the other 9 places in this list. That would give you wiggle room in case of bad weather and plenty of time to relax.

Notice how the route starts furthest north and loops around Acadia then comes back further south?

That’s because with 10 days you should try to ‘follow’ the peak colors as they transition southwards over the first two weeks of October.

New England Fall Road Trip Map

Red Markers – Locations of the 10 best places to visit on a New England fall road trip itinerary.

Click or touch the map to activate.

Zoom in and out, move around the map of New England to find locations for the best places to visit in the area.

More From New England

• Best things to do in Burlington Vermont
• Best things to do in Woodstock Vermont
• Driving the Kancamagus Highway in fall
• How to visit Flume Gorge in New Hampshire
• The best things to do in Lake Placid New York
• The best things to do in Stowe Vermont
• Top things to do in Manchester Vermont
• Unmissable things to do in Acadia National Park

We hope this New England fall foliage road trip guide with itinerary ideas helps you plan the perfect leaf-peeping vacation!

Please let us know if you have any questions about New England or need any help planning your visit in the comments below.

Happy Travels,

Mark and Kristen

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Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

29 thoughts on “New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary: 10 Stunning Stops”

I really appreciate your compressive guide to New England for travel in the Fall. We have enjoyed most of the areas you mention in years past and loved it. My sister is visiting from Australia at perfect Fall Foliage time so we’re planning to do your 10-day roadtrip this year. I was wondering if you have an App you prefer to use to plan each segment of the roadtrip. I used Roadtrippers earlier this year and found it good, but would welcome your suggestions for a roadtrip App. I plan to download your digital guide as well. Thank you and happy travels.

Hi Sharon, we’re happy to hear you will be visiting New England again and this time with your sister. If you are looking for alternatives to Roadtrippers you could check out Wanderlog which is another useful resource. But to be honest we don’t use any apps for our road trips except for the basic and free Google Maps app. We plot points for attractions, restaurants and hotels as we research before visiting a new place, and we plan ahead so we can really get organized. If you download our digital guide and go to the end, you will find a map we created that will open in your Google Maps app and it already contains the locations for top attractions, foliage photo spots, hikes, restaurants and hotels that we discuss throughout the guide. You can of course see more places but we have preloaded the map with the essential spots to visit around New England in fall. Have a fantastic trip!

@Mark and Kristen Morgan, Thank you so very much for your advice. I downloaded the digital guide to use. So looking forward to this trip and having your guide to get organized makes this a lot less daunting. Keep up the great work and happy traveling.

Hi Sharon, Visiting New England in fall is an amazing trip and you will have a wonderful time! Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a nice comment and downloading our guide. Just let us know if you have any specific questions as we get closer to fall season 🙂

@Mark and Kristen Morgan, I have accommodations booked from Lake Placid to Woodstock. Since we want to add a couple of nights in Boston to walk the Freedom Trail and visit the Boston Tea Party site, would you recommend skipping Manchester, Vermont and going directly to Boston from Woodstock. Or, would we be missing out if we skip Manchester. Appreciate your advice.

Hi Sharon, you will have covered almost all of the best fall spots between Lake Placid and Woodstock. We like Manchester but it isn’t going to ruin your trip if you skip it, especially if you really want to see more of Boston. After 10 days or so you will have had your fill of fall colors anyway, so Boston will be a welcome change of scenery and pace. Have a fantastic time!

I would love a copy of the book as well, to use as we travel Thank you for a wealth of information!

Wow, amazing information, thank you. Have you written it in book form by any chance? I would love to drive with the book on hand for reference.

Hi Helen, you have asked at just the right time. We are currently in the process of creating a digital guidebook filled with key information and itinerary ideas for the New England fall road trip. It will be ready within the next week or so and we will email you once it is live. You will be able to either keep it on your smartphone or print it if you prefer to have a paper copy.

@Mark and Kristen Morgan, I’m using this article to plan our New England fall leaves trip and would also be interested in a copy of your digital guidebook, please. The information you provide is outstanding — thank you! ~ Carol

Thank you, Carol! We’re happy to hear you are planning a New England trip this fall. You can follow this link to see more details about our digital guidebook. If you do purchase the guidebook, remember to open up the map on page 45 when you are in each place to see the best hikes, foliage spots, attractions, restaurants and hotels. And if you have any specific questions, feel free to ask away. Have a fantastic trip!

Hello! What a wonderful site you have given us :). Question…do any of the New England fall road trips include the Berkshires? I would love to include a quick visit to The Mount/Edith Wharton’s home. Thanks, Jo

Thank you, Jo! Yes absolutely, you could easily add The Mount / Edith Wharton’s Home to the end of our 10 day New England fall road trip itinerary because it is just 1 hour 30 minutes drive to the south of Manchester VT (which is the last stop in our guide), before heading back to the Boston / NY airports. It wouldn’t be much of a detour and if you are heading that way you might also want to consider including a short drive along scenic highway 2, also known as The Mohawk Trail. Have a fantastic trip later this year!

Hi There! We are flying into Portland, (Sept 23rd) Maine and flying out of Boston, Mass (October 2nd) We have about one full week for our Fall Foliage road trip. Knowing we arrive Portland and depart Boston, what would you map out for itinerary.

Part II question, I prefer staying at one hotel for a few days and taking day trips as opposed to staying one night in several places.

Would it be wise to stay 3 nights near Acadia Nat’l Park and then 3 nights in New Hampshire (near all of the Franconia State Park and Kancamagus Hwy ?

Hi Erin, yes staying 3 nights in Bar Harbor and then 3 nights somewhere near Franconia Notch sounds like the best idea if you would prefer to stay in one hotel for each part of your trip. You can easily visit the most popular fall foliage areas in VT and NH from Franconia. Depending on how much driving you want to do, you could split your days into Vermont and New Hampshire. So one day you do Stowe, Woodstock and Manchester (the driving in between is just as picturesque as the towns), then another day you do Mt Washington, Kancamagus, Artists Bluff and Flume Gorge (which are all much closer together). Then stop at Lake Winnipesaukee on the way down to Boston. Hopefully the peak colors will be in north / central VT and NH early Oct for your trip – have a great time!

Love your site! we are planning a a Fall Foliage trip for 2023 over our 34th Anniversary. thinking any where from 10 – 14 days from the last week in Sept. to the first week of Oct. We are thinking to end our trip in Boston for a few days. If I followed tour 10 day trip guide would it make sense to fly into Albany, NY and out of Boston. Or are we better off to make Boston a long weekend trip?

Hi Randy, thanks for getting in touch and we’re happy to hear you’re planning a trip to New England next year, congrats on the 34th! Absolutely, flying into Albany and out of Boston makes perfect sense. If you make your trip 14 days total, you can follow the 10 day itinerary in our guide and then spend 2 or 3 days in Boston at the end. Something to consider is whether or not you want to see Acadia NP, it is a stunning place but it’s a long way out from the rest of New England’s top foliage spots. If you don’t include Acadia, you can spend longer in the fall color hotspots of Stowe, Woodstock and Manchester in VT, plus Franconia Notch, Kancamagus Highway and Lake Winnipesaukee in NH. Let us know if you have any more questions and best of luck with planning!

We are planning a trip to Maine in the fall of 2023 for our 40th anniversary for a total of 7 days. We would be interested in mainly leaf peeping,Arcadia NP, sight seeing/boat tours, driving the back roads and easy hikes. I really like the coast. Now that I have run across this post, I am rethinking our trip. What city should we fly into? Do you recommend spending 2 days in Arcadia NP? Should we hit some of the areas you mentioned in NH? I don’t think we have time to do your whole itinerary in 7 days. Your thoughts?

Hi Randi, glad to hear you have a trip planned to Maine for your 40th anniversary – congrats! Honestly, 7 days isn’t enough time to be rushing around New England trying to cram in everything. If you like the coast and you want to do Acadia, why not fly into Portland in Maine and slowly drive up to Bar Harbor via the back roads? Acadia is great but it is touristy and expensive, plus you won’t get the best fall colors (when compared to NH or VT). Boothbay Harbor is a nice place to stop between Portland and Bar Harbor, and you can do whale watching tours right out of the small town. If Portland doesn’t work for flight times or prices, Boston will be your best bet. Let us know if you need any more help before you travel next year.

Hi. I’m glad I found this. We are planning our 50th Anniversary to see Vermont and Maine in late September. Is it possible to stay in one place and drive to see the sights? We don’t want to keep changing hotels. This is a lifetime dream for us. Thank you.

Hi Jan, congrats on your 50th anniversary! Without knowing exactly which places in Vermont and Maine you want to see, it is possible to stay in one place but that would mean quite a lot of time spent in the car. If you have a 50/50 split, maybe stay somewhere in New Hampshire in the middle? Or if you plan to spend more time in VT, stay somewhere just inside VT near the NH border? Somewhere near Franconia NH might be a good fit so you are central to most of the fall hot spots and far enough North to see peak colors at the end of September. Have a great time!

Great article! While planning and researching for our New England Fall Foliage Adventure we saw right away that trying to predict “peak” conditions was a difficult proposition, at best. With that in mind and because we have a bit of time on our hands we decided our adventure would be from mid September to mid October 2022. We have booked all of our accommodations and now it’s all about deeply researching the areas and filling in the days. Finding your well written and in depth blog helped confirm our research was spot on and added to our happiness that we are actually going to pull this off. Plus, now we have an excellent study guide to boot! Bring on the trails, the mountains, the breweries, the lobster, cheese, cider donuts, Octoberfests and even the rain! Thank YOU and keep up the fantastic and insightful work!

Hi Jeff, thanks for getting in touch and we are so happy to hear you have planned a full month up in New England! Your list of activities is spot on – hiking, scenery, fall colors, food and beer … recipe for a perfect trip! Good luck filling in the days and hopefully you’ll get optimal weather conditions leading into the peak, just remember to keep an eye on the peak fall colors tracker when you are on site in New England. Have a wonderful trip!

Hello! This post is really very useful! We are planning to go to New England from September 30th to October 8th (we have already booked our flight from Italy). Since we would like to spend a couple of days in Boston too, do you recommend to begin with Boston and then start our road trip or to do the other way round? We would very glad if you could give us more details! Thanks a lot!

Hi Simonetta, thanks for getting in touch and we’re happy to hear you will be visiting New England this fall! This is a tough question because nobody can predict when “peak” fall colors will be in each part of New England. You can keep an eye on a live peak foliage tracker and book everything last minute, but that is risky as accommodation will book up. So, we would suggest starting with Boston and then driving up as far North as you will go on your trip (ie Stowe in VT or Franconia in NH) and then working down South to follow the peak. Please let us know if you have any more questions and you might even see us up there somewhere this year! Have a great time 🙂

I’m so happy to have found your blog post. I know how much time and effort goes into planning these type of trips, so I appreciate you writing about it and sharing it. We are looking at doing a mix of rural/city for both NH, VT, and ME. Looking closer to a 10 day trip and flexible on the dates. Would you say the hikes are fairly easy, medium, or difficult? Do you think looking into Air BNB’s out there would be better vs. hotels?

Hi Ani, thanks for getting in touch and we’re glad to hear you have a trip planned for VT, NH and ME. There are countless hikes spanning the difficulty range on this road trip route, so you do have a lot of flexibility over how long you want to spend hiking and how hard the trails are. Artists Bluff is short but has a steep climb, so we would say it is moderate but well worth it. Flume Gorge is easy and shouldn’t be missed. Acadia (if you make it that far) has a host of easy through hard hikes. Lake Winnipesaukee has plenty of hikes to suit all. If you’re looking for hard hikes take on Mt Washington or Mt Mansfield, tallest in NH and VT. You’ll likely only be spending one night or a maximum of 2 at any given place so we would say go for hotels. AirBnB’s are great for uniqueness and meeting people but for one night they are always more expensive with cleaning fees / service fees etc. By all means check prices and see if you can find any good deals or special places but we will be sticking to hotels ourselves the next time we are in New England. Let us know if you need any more help and have a fantastic trip!

Great information, love your post! We have never been to New England and would like to go see the fall colors in late Sept. or Oct. We also want to spend some time in Boston and Cape area. We are flexible on dates and number of days in itinerary. We would be interested in some hikes. After looking at you post I’m thinking Vermont and New Hampshire might work after seeing Boston. Can you help with an itinerary? We would be flying from San Diego, CA. Would appreciate any information! Thank You!

Thanks for getting in touch, Marilen – we’ll respond through email so we can provide more information.

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Top Fall Road Trips: Coastal Maine

• Across Opal
• Top Activities
• Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina
• West Street Hotel
• Samoset Resort

Every season in Maine is spectacular, but there’s something extra special about fall. Between the brilliant cascade of foliage colors, the crisp temperatures that beg for a cozy sweater (a wool, cable-knit one if you want to look the part), and the way the coast settles into a calmer pace after the summer folk head home, there’s no better time to take a road trip through Maine. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite stops along Maine’s rocky seacoast to stop and soak up before the snow begins to fly.

Coastal Maine Road Trip Leg One: Portland to Rockport

Most travelers arrive in Maine from points south, so it’s a fair bet Portland is a good first stop – and one of the last big cities before entering Maine’s more rural Midcoast region. As you wind your way up the coast toward Rockport, home of the Samoset Resort , you’ll be treated to coastal fishing villages, stunning vistas, and just the right amount of roadside kitsch.

Portland Museum of Art [Portland, ME]

Among the other priceless works of art by Andy Warhol, Winslow Homer, and Claude Money at Portland Museum of Art , you can see the brilliant, multi-colored 13-by-34 foot masterpiece, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a permanent installation by Maine native Tim Rollins, which was inspired by the quilters of Maine and brought to life through his artists’ collective, Kids of Survival.

L.L. Bean [Freeport, ME]

Located just north of Portland, L.L. Bean is more than a Maine institution; it’s a way of life. From its lenient return policy – as in, if you’re not 100 percent satisfied, they’ll take back the item within a year of purchase – to its signature “Bean Boots,” you’ll love more than just the items for sale at this Maine retail legend. Fall is a great time to visit when Freeport’s summer crowds have thinned in this downtown built around its outlet shopping.

Red’s Eats [Wiscasset, ME]

Fondly known as “the prettiest village in Maine” found shortly after starting your journey north onto coastal Route 1, Wiscasset is home to Red’s Eats , an unassuming but oh so essential street corner shack. The line that winds down the sidewalk may tip you off, but beneath the humble exterior of this seafood joint lies a perennial favorite among locals and tourists alike. Proof positive: Red’s headlines the list of Samoset Executive Chef Tim Pierce’s top lobster rolls . Red’s rendition comes on a butter-toasted hot dog roll far too small to contain the entire lobster’s worth of meat that comes with it. Mayo and butter are served on the side, and you won’t find a speck of lettuce or celery anywhere within – Red’s Eats is where purists go to order a lobster roll.

Damariscotta Pottery [Damariscotta, ME]

No road trip is complete without a few keepsake souvenirs – might as well pick them up early on. Founded in 1978, Damariscotta Pottery has been crafting its signature blue and white hand-painted pottery ever since. Made from red earthenware clay, the pieces have acquired loyal collectors from far and wide.

Moody’s Diner [Waldoboro, ME]

You may have had lunch earlier in your trip, but by the time you make your way up Route 1 to Waldoboro, you’ll be ready for a quick stop to stretch your legs and eat a snack. At one of Maine’s most legendary classic diners , it will be hard to narrow down your choices. Moody’s Diner is famous for both its whoopie pies and the daily selection of a dozen or so homemade pies. There’s really no way to go wrong at Moody’s – aside from passing it by.

Where to Stay: Samoset Resort [Rockland, ME]

Regularly ranked among the best golf resorts in the US by Conde Nast Traveler , the Samoset Resort is perched on 230 waterfront acres that overlook Penobscot Bay in Maine. You might never leave the resort’s own peninsula, but you would miss out on the string of quaint communities of Rockport, Rockland, and Camden, known as iconic fishing villages with great art and culinary scenes.  

Coastal Maine Road Trip Leg Two: Rockport to Bar Harbor

Refreshed from your evening ensconced at the Samoset, it’s time to continue on your way north. On the way to Mount Desert (pronounce it like “dessert” if you want to blend in with the locals) and Bar Harbor, acquaint yourself with a few coastal highlights. Upon your arrival in Bar Harbor, imagine yourself rubbing shoulders with Carnegies, Pulitzers, and other illustrious families from the Gilded Age, who used to frequent the area.

Rockland Breakwater [Rockland, ME]

Before you leave the Samoset’s grounds, make your way to the Rockland Breakwater for the nearly mile-long walk across the mammoth granite blocks that traverse Rockland Harbor out to the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse. At the end of your walk, enjoy stunning 360-degree views of the harbor, explore the lighthouse, and catch a peek of Owl’s Head Lighthouse, too. When the fall foliage colors are out, this is a coastal scene that no postcard can capture.

Zoot Coffee [Camden, ME]

After your walk down the breakwater, make a quick stop at the locals’ favorite coffeehouse, Zoot Coffee in downtown Camden. This modern yet comfortable café has coffee and espresso as good as you’ll find in any big city, as well as simple, delicious food and baked goods. A freshly baked muffin and a hot cuppa are just what you need to continue your drive.

Penobscot Narrows Bridge & Observatory [Prospect, ME]

Taller than the Statue of Liberty and home to the world’s tallest bridge observatory, the Penobscot Narrows Bridge offers spectacular 360-degree views for those brave enough to climb to the top of the 420-foot-tall western tower. Hike to the top to take in the spectacular view of the foliage, then make your way down for a picnic at the nearby pavilion before a tour through Fort Knox , Maine’s largest and best-preserved military fortification.

Cadillac Mountain [Mount Desert Island, ME]

Before winding down your Maine road trip in Bar Harbor, there’s just one more stretch of road you must travel. The narrow, three-and-a-half-mile road that climbs up Acadia National Park’s 1,530-foot tall Cadillac Mountain will lead you to one of Maine’s most spectacular viewpoints. From the rocky summit of the mountain, visitors can see Bar Harbor, the Porcupine Islands, and Frenchman Bay – and on clear days, all the way over to New Hampshire’s Mount Washington, the highest peak in the northeast. Purchase a vehicle reservation pass at online for $6 and make your way above the tree line and into the clouds.

Where to Stay: Harborside Hotel & West Street Hotel [Bar Harbor, ME]

The  Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina , nestled in Bar Harbor’s picturesque waterfront, embodies the elegant history of “summering” in Maine, but still may be the best spot to enjoy autumn in town. The hotel can be found where Frenchman Bay meets downtown, where you can watch some seemingly too-big cruise boats navigate the bay this time of year from your much-more-comfortable quarters and waterfront balcony. The Harborside provides two-step access to all of downtown, plus the adjacent Bar Harbor Club. Built in 1929 by J.P. Morgan and once a private playground for Bar Harbor’s wealthiest summer residents, the club was recently restored to its former grandeur with the pool, tennis courts, and spa available for hotel guests.

West Street Hotel is just 300 feet away, around the corner on its namesake street. In Bar Harbor’s former life as the summer home of families like the Rockefellers, Vanderbilts, and Fords, West Street was where famous mansions and estates (then called “cottages”) were built. Today, the hotel is town’s only luxury boutique hotel, featuring modern design, magnificent ocean views, and one truly breathtaking rooftop pool. Hotel guests also have access to the Bar Harbor Club and its pool and hot tub around the corner during their stay.

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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!

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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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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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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This Waterfall Road Trip in Maine Will Take You To Spectacular Places

Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: [email protected].

More by this Author

Maine is a paradise for those who love the outdoors. From crashing ocean waves to sky-high mountains, we’ve got an outdoor activity for just about everyone. But, to be fair, some of what we have to offer isn’t for the beginner. Don’t fancy yourself an Appalachian Trail hiker anytime soon? That’s okay – feel free to ease into things! We recommend starting with some waterfall visits – so take a peek at this waterfall road trip in Maine! Plentiful and impressive, Maine has over 100 significant waterfalls, which exist in just about every county from York to Aroostook.

Because a road trip with more than 100 stops is more of a lifestyle change than a fun jaunt, I’ve created a Western Maine focused trip that you can complete in about five hours of drive time . This will give you the rest of the day to hike, explore, stop for photos at the side of the road and (most importantly) replenish the snack supply at one of our local stores. We’ve even included stops for lunch and dinner at some great local spots.

Check out the Google map that will tell you exactly where to go. You can even make edits to the route to add in a trip to Aunt Edna’s on your way home.

And, if you like it, we’ll create some that will take you into other areas of the state as well.

Below, find the ultimate Maine waterfalls road trip!

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The Little Abol Falls Trail In Maine Is A 1.8-Mile Out-And-Back Hike With A Waterfall Finish

The Gorgeous 1.7-Mile Hike In Maine's Big Falls Preserve That Will Lead You Past A Waterfall And River

Poplar Hut Is A Magical Waterfall Camping Experience In Maine

Now, grab yourself some Moxie, car snacks and your favorite fellow adventure lovers and hit the road! Our next road trip guide will take you up the coast for an all-inclusive visit to Maine’s lighthouses. What else would you like to see? Head to Facebook and let us know.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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More to Explore

Waterfall road trip in maine.

What are the best hikes with a view in Maine?

It's hard to top the views along the coast of Maine ! Some of the best hikes you can take in the Pine Tree State include the scramble along Giant's Stairs, the hike out to Great Head in Acadia National Park, and the exhilarating Beehive hike, also in Acadia National Park. There are stunning mountain hikes, too - are you brave enough to hike the Knife's Edge up Katahdin? Even if you prefer to stay a little closer to the ground, you can enjoy the stunning Gulf Hagas Rim Trail in Katahdin Iron Works State Park. Higgin's Mountain, in Georgetown's Reid State Park, is a beautiful family-friendly mountain hike that's beautiful in most seasons.

What are the most beautiful lakes in Maine?

It's hard to top the famous Belgrade Lakes, in Central Maine. In the fall, the Harvest Festival brings hundreds of visitors to see them in their stunning color as the season changes. If you enjoy kayaking or floating on calm water, visit the cute little Duckpuddle Pond, which spreads across Nobleboro and Waldoboro. Knox County is home to the often-overlooked Megunticook Lake, where you'll find stunning scenery for hiking and swimming. Read about more stunning lakes in Maine in this roundup.

Which state parks should I visit in Maine?

Baxter State Park, Katahdin Iron Works State Park, and Reid State Park are some of our favorites to explore every season. Popham Beach State Park and Camden Hills State Park are also beautiful, particularly in the summer. Camden Hill is a great place to visit if the crowds of Acadia are a little too much for you, but you'd still like to explore the downeast coast. If you're close to Portland and want to get away from the busy city, head to Mackworth Island State Park, which is a local hidden gem.

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