If you're planning a trip to New England, you can't forget Maine. To my chagrin, my siblings and parents have recently become a bunch of National Park gurus. However, I was captivated by Acadia National Park. From the Otter Cliffs along the Atlantic Ocean to the exhilarating Beehive Trail, it's quite stunning. Nearby Bar Harbor is incredibly charming, with all sorts of shops and authentic lobster shacks along the winding road. The park is only three hours from Portland, which boasts countless breweries, sailboats for rent and picturesque lighthouses. Oh, and the best seafood!
THURSDAY
Stop in Freeport on your way to Bar Harbor. An outlet mall mecca, the small town is also home to the flagship L.L. Bean Store (and oversized bean boot). Tip: Purchase your National Park pass here, to avoid long lines at Acadia's visitor center.
After three more hours in the car, you'll arrive in Bar Harbor. For our visit, we stayed in the Bar Harbor Cottages, which were in prime location and a perfect fit for my family! Tip: If you arrive before the sun sets, head into Acadia and watch the it from Sand Beach.
Bar Harbor's charming downtown has shops and restaurants, and, most importantly, ice cream shops galore. For a quick bite after traveling all day, check out Rosalie's Pizza. The pizza is great & they've got a local beer selection!
FRIDAY
Head into Acadia for a day of hiking! And popovers! A few of my top trails include Jordan Pond, Bubble Trail and Ocean Path. If you're looking for something more strenuous, Penobscot Mountain is quite challenging (per my brother and dad).
Brown bag it for lunch, but don't let that stop you from indulging in the legendary popovers from the Jordan Pond House. The view is also gorgeous! Tip: Go right when they open to avoid a long wait.
If you're more of a risk-taker, book a climbing experience at the Otter Cliffs. My brother did it (much to the chagrin of my mother) and he really enjoyed it!
You can't visit Maine without going to a lobster shack for dinner. We had a great experience at C-Ray Lobster, but with so many options along Bar Harbor Road, you can't go wrong! If you're more adventurous, pick up a lobster-cooking kit from a shack and DIY.
The highest point along the east coast, Cadillac Mountain is a prime spot to watch the sunset after dinner. Fun fact: Jenna Bush got engaged here!
Pop back into Bar Harbor for a scoop of ice cream at CJ's Big Dipper! Tip: if the skies are clear, find a spot for some stargazing. Our cabin had a picnic table that was perfect for this.
SATURDAY
Hike the Beehive Trail, which is a can't-miss (disclaimer: this one is more of a climb, skip if you dislike heights). On a clear day, the views are unreal.
Drive the Park Loop Road and check out the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.
Rent bikes through Acadia Bike Rentals ($26) and check out Rockefeller's famous Carriage Roads. The bike shop pros will be able to offer tips on which trails to take. Tip: If you need a ride back to town, simply hop on the free L.L. Bean Island Explorer shuttle, which is outfitted with bike racks.
Grab dinner at the Thirsty Whale, a hole-in-the-wall local spot that has plenty of seafood options. Tip: My favorite local beer was the Bar Harbor Real Ale.
SUNDAY
Make one last stop in the park before heading back to Portland. Thunder Hole is where you can watch the waves roll in, and if you're lucky, witness a 40-foot water spout.
Back in Portland, cruise around on a sailboat, courtesy of Portland Schooner Co.! Tip: It's BYOB, so don't forget a cooler with local beers or champagne!
Venture over to the Portland Lighthouse before visiting a few local breweries. This was one thing we didn't get to do, but we really enjoyed Shipyard beer during our trip!
ADDITIONAL RELEVANT TIPS
If you have time, visit Kennebunkport. The historic town has museums, shops, and is home to the Bush estate on Walker's Point. A 40-minute drive from Portland, we enjoyed a yummy meal at the iconic Clam Shack.
In addition to lobster shacks lining the roads, Maine has a ton of fruit stands! Keep your eyes peeled.
Whether you're flying into Boston or Portland, renting a car is an absolute must. Everything is spread out, so getting around without one would be pretty challenging.
Comments