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Classic Road Trip

Best Stops on the Drive from
Boston, MA to Acadia National Park, ME

Drive from Boston to Acadia National Park to experience historic lighthouses, rocky Maine coastlines, and the stunning beauty of Mount Desert Island.

Distance
280 miles
Drive Time
4.5 hours
Best Time
Summer, Fall
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Must-See Stops Along the Way

These are our hand-picked recommendations to break up the drive.

2 hours

Portsmouth, NH

A historic seaport town featuring brick-lined streets, boutique shopping, and the beautiful Prescott Park.

1 hour

Portland Head Light

Visit Maine's oldest and most photographed lighthouse located in the stunning Fort Williams Park.

3 hours

Old Port, Portland

Explore a vibrant district known for its cobblestone streets, 19th-century architecture, and world-class dining scene.

1.5 hours

Camden Hills State Park

Drive or hike to the summit of Mount Battie for a panoramic view of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay.

About This Route

Route Overview

About Boston, MA to Acadia National Park, ME

The journey from Boston to Acadia National Park is a quintessential New England road trip that transitions from historic urban charm to the rugged, pine-scented coast of Maine.

  • Coastal Charm:Pass through historic maritime towns and scenic fishing villages along the Atlantic.
  • Culinary Delights:Indulge in world-famous Maine lobster rolls and fresh-caught seafood at roadside shacks.
  • Natural Beauty:Witness the dramatic shift from sandy Massachusetts beaches to the granite cliffs of Mount Desert Island.

Whether you are seeking outdoor adventure or a peaceful seaside escape, this route offers the best of the Northeast corridor.

Weather

Best Time to Visit

  • Peak Season:July and August offer the warmest weather but bring the largest crowds to the park.
  • Fall Foliage:Early to mid-October provides breathtaking autumn colors along the entire coastal drive.
  • Winter Travel:Expect heavy snow and road closures within Acadia from December through March.
Drive Time

Distance & Driving

  • Route Options:I-95 is the fastest path, while U.S. Route 1 offers a slower, more scenic coastal experience.
  • Traffic Alerts:Expect significant delays leaving Boston on Friday afternoons and near Wiscasset, Maine.
  • Tolls:The route includes several tolls on the New Hampshire and Maine Turnpikes.

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