21 Best Stops for a Boston to Acadia National Park Road Trip

Are you gearing up for a Boston to Acadia National Park Road Trip?

We know the feeling! It is a BEAUTIFUL drive that we believe everyone should do at least once.

But with so many routes, stops, and hidden gems, how do you sift through the options to plan the perfect trip?

We’ve got you covered! As seasoned Northeast explorers who have personally spent a week cruising from Boston to Acadia, we’re here to share perfectly crafted itineraries.

Whether you’re a solo adventurer, a family looking for fun stops, or a couple seeking scenic overlooks, we’ve trekked it, timed it, and taken notes just for you!

So, buckle up and let’s get this road trip rolling with insider tips, must-see spots, and a few hidden treasures. Our guide is all about making your drive as epic as the destination.

Is the drive from Boston to Acadia National Park pretty?

We could not have better things to say about driving from Boston to Acadia/Bar Harbor –  it is BEAUTIFUL!

The colors are absolutely amazing and the cute towns you pass through are out of a storybook.

We especially love the drive in early October when the leaves are changing but it is a pretty road trip May-October.

You can visit in the winter but you will find many things are closed starting at the end of October and open up sometime in April or May.

How long does it take to drive from Boston to Acadia National Park?

If you take the shortest route (I95), it will take about 4 hours and 40 minutes to drive the 275 miles from Boston to Acadia/Bar Harbor.

We would suggest, however, taking the more scenic option of U.S. Route 1 which would take you about 5 and a half hours without stops – but what fun would no stops be!? 

To break up the drive, take a few days to make the drive! We have full itineraries at the end of the article.

Need to book a rental car? We always book with Discover Cars and recommend them for getting a great price in the USA or abroad.

21 Top Stops when Road Tripping from Boston to Acadia/Bar Harbor

These are our absolute favorite stops when going from Boston to Acadia National Park on a road trip.

The stops are in order of when going from South (Boston) to North (Acadia/Bar Harbor) along Route 1. 

1. Salem, Massachusetts

• Distance from Boston: 28 min, 13 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 4 hr and 32 min, 268 miles
• Cost: Free 🥳

Salem is a city with a long and storied history but we also enjoyed its beauty! The city is best known for the witch trials of 1692, and it was fascinating to see the sites connected to those events.

To best understand the history and see the city, we recommend taking a guided walking tour. Your local guide will be a historian and will share the mysterious story of Salem.

If it works out with your schedule, consider taking the nighttime tour! We absolutely loved it!

Some other top attractions in the area include the House of the Seven Gables, Peabody Essex Museum, and the Salem Maritime National Historic Site. 

There is also a vibrant downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Salem is a great place to visit if you’re interested in American history or want to experience a charming New England town – a perfect stop on a Boston to Acadia National Park road trip!

2. Odiorne Point State Park

• Distance from Boston: 1 hr and 5 min, 57 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 3 hr and 52 min, 231 miles
• Cost: Adults: $4 and Children (6-11): $2
• Hours: Typically 8 am – 8 pm but the hours change frequently so make sure you check!

Odiorne Point State Park is a lovely place to visit, with plentiful opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and enjoying the stunning views of the ocean.

The park also has a rich history, dating back to the days when it was part of the vast estates of the Odiorne family and then used in World War II as Fort Dearborn. The remains of the old bunkers from the fort are still visible today! 

Odiorne Point State Park is also a great place for kids with the Seacoast Science Center and a large playground. At low tide, you can see 3,500 – 4,500 year old stumps by the water. There is a ton to explore and would be a terrific stop!

You can reserve your spot ahead of time (highly recommended for the weekend) to ensure you can visit this section of the beautiful coastline! 

3. Old Orchard Beach Pier

• Distance from Boston: 1 hr and 30 min, 95 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 3 hr and 14 min, 192 miles
• Cost: Free 🎉

The small town of Old Orchard is home to a large pier that juts out into the ocean. You can walk along the pier, take in the fresh sea air, and watch the waves crash against the rocks.

There are also a ton of small shops and restaurants located along the pier, making it the perfect place to stop for a snack or meal.

In addition, Old Orchard Beach is home to a number of festivals and events throughout the year, making it a great destination for any time of year.

Be sure to check out their events schedule!

4. On The Rocks at Two Lights

• Distance from Boston: 1 hr and 50 min, 111 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 3 hr and 10 min, 183 miles
• Cost: $5 Adult Maine Resident $7, Adult Non-Resident, $2 Non-Resident Seniors
• Hours: Open all year; 9:00 a.m. to sunset daily unless otherwise posted at the gate

On The Rocks is a hidden gem located within Two Lights State Park.

This beautiful spot is home to an iconic lighthouse, sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, and dramatic rock formations.

You can explore tide pools, hike along scenic trails, and picnic on the grassy lawn. On The Rocks is a perfect place to enjoy a sunny day or watch the gorgeous sunset. 

There is also a great seafood restaurant, The Lobster Shack at Two Lights, right there where you can grab a bite while taking in the blissful views. We had a lovely afternoon here!

Parking is a bit cramped so make sure you pack your patience!

5. Portland Head Light and Fort Williams Park

• Distance from Boston: 1 hr and 50 min, 108 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 3 hr, 179 miles
• Cost: From April 1 – November 15 there is a fee for parking in premium spaces in the park. Free parking is available in the Overflow Lot.
• Hours: open year-round from sunrise to sunset

Portland Head Light is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maine.

The light, which was first lit on January 10, 1791, is located at the entrance to Portland Harbor and is visible for miles. The area was originally built to warn citizens of coming British attacks. 

For the best views of the lighthouse, make sure to take the cliffside trail. We loved this walk!

It is a short walk (about .4 miles one way) and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of the lighthouse and the rocky coastline.

Fort Williams Park, which surrounds the light, is also a popular spot for picnicking, hiking, and visiting the nearby beach.

Visitors can also take a tour of the old Battery Blair, which is a large reinforced concrete wall where two Breechloading Rifles used to live. They both could fire a 12-inch diameter, 1070-pound shell up to eight miles and were used to protect the area.

The light and the fort are both well worth a visit!

6. Old Port, Portland

• Distance from Boston: 1 hr and 40 min, 105 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 2 hr and 50 min, 174 miles
• Cost: Free 💥

The Old Port of Portland is a must-see – Portland, Maine is one of our favorite spots in all of the Northeast!

This historic district is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, and bars, all housed in buildings with a unique New England charm.

Looking to stay for the weekend? Take a look at our itinerary for a perfect weekend in Portland, Maine!

The cobblestone streets and brick buildings create a unique atmosphere, and there is always something new to see or do.

Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, fresh seafood, or just a place to walk around and take in the sights, the Old Port is the perfect destination. 

In addition, the Old Port is home to a number of popular events throughout the year, including the Maine Lobster Fest (August) and the Portland Wine Week (June) so make sure you check out the Portland events page!

7. Allagash Brewing Company

• Distance from Boston: 1 hr and 40 min, 104 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 3 hr, 180 miles
• Must be 21+

Portland, Maine is home to some of the best craft beer in the country (in our opinion 😎).

That’s why we’re always happy to visit Portland and sample the local brews. There are so many great breweries in Portland that it’s hard to know where to start. 

But one of my favorites is Allagash Brewing Company.

Allagash is best known for their award-winning, Belgian-style wheat beer “White.” It is named Allagash White after its hazy “white” appearance caused by being brewed with oats, malted wheat, and raw wheat.

Kelsea’s favorite is the Hop Reach IPA and Nicholas’s is the North Sky Stout. 

The tasting room is beautiful and definitely worth a visit! Plus, there are several other top-notch breweries within walking distance! 

Please drink responsibly and don’t drive!

8. Desert of Maine

• Distance from Boston: 1 hr and 50 min, 121 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 2 hr and 40 min, 161 miles
• Cost: $16 Adult, $12 Child
• Hours: May – October 10th,  Sun, Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu: 9am – 5pm, Fri, Sat: 9am – 7pm

Who knew there was a Desert in Maine!? Just a couple miles from Freeport is 20 acres of rolling sand dunes surrounded by a beautiful forest.

Personally, we had never heard of it, but there are records of it going back to the 1800s.

The Sands are believed to have been created by glaciers during the last Ice Age. Now, it is a place beautifully designed to have something for everyone.

You can use the 1-mile self-guided tour to learn about the history, geology, and ecology of the area.

They also have a Buried Spring House, 1800s Farmhouse museum, Gemstone Village where kids can dig for gems, a hands-on Fossil Dig experience, and a minigolf course built in 2022!

There is a ton to do, plus you can camp there. Check out their website for more details.

9. Freeport, Maine

• Distance from Boston: 1 hr and 50 min, 121 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 2 hr and 30 min, 158 miles
• Cost: Free

Freeport, Maine is the perfect place for a stroll in a quintessential Maine town. This quaint little town, situated on the coast, is known for its charming shops and historic buildings.

Visitors can walk down Main Street and browse through the unique shops at Freeport Village Station, or take a leisurely saunter along the scenic harbor.

Personally, we really liked tasting one of the local treats – a Whoopie Pie! 

And of course, no visit to Freeport would be complete without taking a picture with the iconic,  16-foot-tall L.L. Bean boot!  

10. Androscoggin Swinging Bridge

• Distance from Boston: 2 hr and 05 min, 131 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 2 hr and 30 min, 150 miles
• Cost: Free 💰

A short but breathtaking stop when driving from Boston to Acadia is the swinging bridge over the Androscoggin River. It is so unique!

The bridge was built in 1892 so that mill workers could travel to and from work. Now, it is one of the oldest surviving suspension bridges in the United States and home to some spectacular views. 

There is easy and free parking right by the bridge so it is perfect for a quick stop! 

11. Red’s Eats

• Distance from Boston: 2 hr and 20 min, 148 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 2 hr and 20 min, 108 miles
• Cost: Cash only! 
• Hours: They change their hours frequently – Check their website for the most up-to-date hours.

This is the only restaurant listed for a reason – WOW! It was phenomenal.

If there is anything Nicholas hates, it is waiting in line for food but even he would wait in this line again and again for what is the best Lobster roll either of us has EVER had (and we have had more than we can count). 

Red’s Eats has been around for over 81 years and is situated in Wiscasset, Maine – a cute town through which we enjoyed taking a quick stroll.

It is a small stand that you walk up to (after waiting in a line that will go around the building) and then eat on the picnic tables along the water. They only take cash so make sure you have enough before jumping in line!

💡 TIP: We heard the line starts forming an hour before opening but once they are open, they do a great job of moving people through. 

It is also conveniently halfway between Boston and Acadia National Park!

12. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

• Distance from Boston: 2 hr and 50 min, 161 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 2 hr and 40 min, 116 miles
• Cost: Adults: $22, Seniors (65+) & Veterans: $18, Student (18+ with Student ID): $15, Children (3-17): $10, Children under 3: Free, Family (2 adults, 2 children): $55
• Hours: May 1, 2022 through October 23, 2022 from 9am to 5pm

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is a truly spectacular display of nature’s beauty.

We have been to botanical gardens throughout the world and this one is in the top 5! 

Located in Boothbay, the gardens span over 18,000 square feet and feature 24 distinct gardens. With something for everyone, the gardens are a definite top stop when driving from Boston to Acadia. 

The Children’s Garden is a particular highlight, with its interactive play equipment and whimsical sculptures.

The Park employees are so kind, helpful, and willing to answer all questions.

There are troll statues throughout the park and each has an attendant to help with photos – a great touch!

There is also a shuttle that can take you around the park.  It is a fantastic place to explore May-October! We recommend pre-purchasing your tickets.

13. Pemaquid Point Lighthouse

• Distance from Boston: 3 hr and 15 min, 170 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 2 hr and 50 min, 115 miles
• Cost: $3 Adults (Age 12+), $1 Child (Ages 5-11), FREE for Bristol Residents and Children 4 and under 
• Hours:
  • Park: 9am-5pm everyday from the Middle of May until mid to late October
  • Top of the Lighthouse: Monday – Friday 11am – 5pm and Saturday/Sunday 12:30pm – 4:30pm 

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse is a historic light station nestled on the rocky coast of Bristol, Maine.

Built in 1635, it was the first light station in North America and was also one of the first lighthouses to be automated.

Standing over 100 feet tall, the lighthouse is a striking sight, and its unique location makes it a popular spot for tourists and locals. 

Visitors can climb to the top of the lighthouse for panoramic views of the coastline, or take a leisurely stroll along the nature trail. Whether you’re looking for history or breathtaking views, the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse is a great stop.

14. Rockland, Maine

• Distance from Boston: 3 hr and 30 min, 181 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 2 hr and 12 min, 84 miles

Rockland, Maine is a historic seaside town with quaint shops and art galleries. For those interested in history, the Maine Maritime Museum is a great adventure.

The museum tells the story of the state’s maritime heritage and explores the ways that maritime trade has shaped the state’s economy and culture. 

Farnsworth Art Museum is a perfect pit spot for any art lover!

It houses a collection of over 15,000 nationally recognized works from some of America’s greatest artists and is home to one of the nation’s largest works by sculptor Louise Nevelson.

15. Camden, Maine

• Distance from Boston: 3 hr and 34 min, 184 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 1 hr and 52 min, 77 miles

Camden is the self-described Jewel of the Maine coast and after traveling through, we see why! The sailboats on the water make the town look like it is straight out of a magazine cover.

On the way in, stop by the Andre the Seal Statue. 

Afterward, we recommend grabbing a great cup of coffee from the Owl & Turtle Bookshop Café and taking a quick walk around the town.

On your walk, make sure you stop by Megunticook Falls! We also recommend hiking Mount Megunticook Trail.

16. Mount Battie

• Distance from Boston: 3 hr and 32 min, 193 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 1 hr and 52 min, 74 miles
• Cost:  $4 Adult Maine Residents, $6 Adult Non-Residents, $2.00 Seniors
• Hours: 9:00 a.m. to sunset daily unless otherwise signed at the gate (Nov 1st to May 1st may be closed based on weather and staffing)

Mount Battie is a popular hiking destination and for good reason! You have 2 choices.

Option 1 is to hike from the bottom to the top. It is only 1.1 miles round trip but has almost 600 feet in elevation gain – it is a difficult hike, to say the least!

Option 2 is to drive up to the top (which requires paying the entrance fee). Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with absolutely stunning views of the surrounding area. 

In addition to its natural beauty, Mount Battie is also steeped in history: the 26-foot-tall stone tower was erected in 1921 in honor of the men and women of Camden who took part in the war effort during World War I.

Whether you’re looking for a challenging hike or simply want to take in some stunning views, Mount Battie is definitely worth a visit.

17. Penobscot Marine Museum

• Distance from Boston: 3 hr and 336 min, 212 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 1 hr and 15 min, 52 miles
• Cost:
  • Searsport/Stockton Springs Residents: Free
  • Children (7 and under): FREE
  • Seniors (65 and over) and Students (+17 with student ID): $12.00
  • Adults: $15.00
  • Children (8 to 15): $10.00
  • Family (2 adults and children under 18): $40.00
• Hours: Mon – Sat 10am to 5pm and Sunday 12pm-5pm, Memorial Day weekend through the 3rd weekend in October

Located in the seaside town of Searsport, Maine, the Penobscot Marine Museum is the premier place for anyone interested in the maritime history of the Northeast.

The museum has an impressive collection of more than 20,000 historic photographs, 3,000 ship models, and over 10,000 maritime artifacts. Visitors can also take part in hands-on activities, such as learning to tie knots or build a boat. 

The museum’s exhibits chronicle the history of seafaring in the Gulf of Maine from the early days of exploration to the present day.

The Penobscot Marine Museum is an important resource for students and scholars of maritime history and for anyone interested in learning more about the maritime heritage of the region.

18. Fort Point State Park

• Distance from Boston: 3 hr and 50 min, 220 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 1 hr and 14 min, 51 miles
• Cost: Free
• Hours: 9am to Dusk

Fort Point State Park is located in Maine on the banks of the Penobscot River.

The park occupies a long peninsula with panoramic views of the Penobscot River and Penobscot Bay making it an ideal place to make a stop and stretch your legs – especially if you are there around sunset or sunrise! 

The park also features a variety of hiking trails, a boat launch, and picnicking areas. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the river and nearby mountains, but the star attraction is the beautiful lighthouse.

19. Stephen King’s House

• Distance from Boston: 3 hr and 31 min, 239 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 1 hr and 12 min, 48 miles
• Cost: Free
• Hours: Dawn to Dusk

Stephen King’s house in Bangor, Maine, is a must-see for any fan of the iconic author.

Located at 47 West Broadway, this Victorian mansion is easily recognizable by its wrought-iron gate adorned with bats and spiders. The house itself is painted a striking red, adding to its eerie charm.

While you can’t tour the inside, the exterior alone is fascinating. King and his wife, Tabitha, lived here for many years and raised their family in this unique home.

It’s a perfect stop for anyone traveling from Boston to Acadia, offering a glimpse into the life of one of America’s most beloved storytellers.

20. Paul Bunyan Statue

• Distance from Boston: 3 hr and 37 min, 232 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 1 hr and 6 min, 47 miles
• Cost: Free
• Hours:  Dawn to Dusk

The Paul Bunyan Statue, in Bangor, Maine, stands at an impressive height of 61 feet. This statue is impossible to miss!

Paul Bunyan is a legendary figure in American folklore, and the statue captures the story perfectly – the detail of the carving, from the deep furrows in Bunyan’s brow to the intricate ax he holds in his hand is extremely impressive.

Make sure you get your photo with the massive Paul Bunyan!

21. Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory

• Distance from Boston: 3 hr and 52 min, 223 miles
• Distance from Bar Harbor: 1 hr, 42 miles
• Cost: Admission is for both the Fort and Observatory
  • Children 4 and under are free.
  • Adults 12 & older: $7 Maine Resident, $9 Non-Resident
  • Seniors (65 plus) $2.50 Maine Resident, $5.50 Non-Resident
  • Children 5 – 1: $5.00
• Hours:
  • Observatory:
    • May 1 to June 30: 9 AM to 5 PM
    • July 1 to August 31: 9 AM to 6 PM
    • Sept 1 to Oct 31: 9 AM to 5 PM
  • Fort Knox: May 1 through October 31 from 9 AM to sunset

Fort Knox is one of the best-preserved examples of coastal defense fortifications constructed in the mid-1800s.

Visitors can also take part in free volunteer-led guided tours from 11am-3pm and explore the fort’s grounds. 

The Penobscot Narrows Observatory is the tallest bridge observatory open to the public in the world. It provides an unparalleled view of the river and the surrounding area.

The Observatory deck is located 42 stories above the ground and you can take an elevator all the way up to the top.

On a clear day, you can see for miles in all directions from the top of the tower! 

What is there to see on a Boston and Acadia National Park Road Trip?

As you can see, there is a lot! This is such a wonderful drive to take and experience the beauty along the Atlantic Coast.

There are a ton of things to do along the drive that are perfect for families, couples, solo explorers – really everyone!

We would highly recommend this trip, with some exploration in Acadia and Bar Harbor, to everyone!

We wish you the best travels, and don’t forget to set your “Out of Office!” 

Check out our 40+ Amazing Tips for Preparing for a Road Trip + Pack Checklist before you head to New England!