Acadia National Park from Boston Road Trip (Best Stops!)
If you’re looking for an amazing road trip destination, Acadia National Park is a truly magical place and well worth the drive from Boston.
Located in Maine, Acadia National Park is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country. From rocky coastlines and lighthouses to dense forests and mountain peaks, Acadia has a little something for everyone.
And not only does the Park offer stunning scenery but there are so many beautiful places along the way. So pack your bags and hit the road – Acadia National Park and New England await!
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What is there to see between Boston and Acadia National Park?
There are plenty of things to see and do between Boston and Acadia National Park. New England is filled with incredible landscapes around every corner. Half of the fun in New England is actually the journey because of all of the amazing places you can stop at on the way.
It’s actually one of the things I love most about the Northeast- how close all of the states are located to each other. Makes for an easy road trip!
Some popular destinations to see along the way include: Salem, Portsmouth, Portland, and Rockport. All of which are beautiful coastal cities that offer beautiful scenery and fun things to do and explore.
How long is the drive from Boston to Acadia National Park?
The drive to Acadia National Park from Boston is about 4.5 hours, at least per Google Maps. Of course this will depend on traffic and how many stops you make along the way. I would recommend planing for at least a 7 to 8 hour day if you want to take your time and enjoy the journey.
In a perfect world where you wanted to go slowly, I mean really slowly, up the coast, you’d have a long weekend or up to a week. Of course our PTO and schedules don’t always allow for this so a day or a few days works too.
Related: 13 Beautiful East Coast National Parks
Best Stops along Boston to Acadia National Park drive
While there’s an endless amount of stops you could make on your way to Acadia National Park, here are some of the top places you can stop and see on the way.
We’ve attempted to break this into a list of towns to see and also some must-see spots in those areas. All of these towns offer a little something different but are all worth a visit. Buckle up, we’ve got a lot of ground to cover.
1. Salem, Massachusetts
Distance from Boston: About 30 minutes
Salem is best known for its witch trials that took place in the late 1600s. Today, Salem is a popular tourist destination with plenty to offer. If you’re interested in history, Salem is a great place to start your Acadia National Park from Boston road trip.
There are several museums dedicated to the witch trials, as well as several historic homes and churches. Salem is also home to a number of great restaurants, shops, and cafes.
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The Salem Witch Museum
The Salem Witch Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in American history or the supernatural. The museum tells the story of the Salem witch trials of 1692 and features life-size replicas of the trial scenes. A little spooky but a good spot to visit on your road trip.
The House of the Seven Gables
The House of the Seven Gables is a historic house and museum located in Salem, Massachusetts. The house was made famous by author Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel The House of the Seven Gables. Today, the house is open to the public for tours and features a number of exhibits to enjoy.
Pro tip: Take a tour and climb up the hidden staircase.
Essex Street Pedestrian Mall
The Essex Street Pedestrian Mall is a pedestrian-only shopping street located in Salem, Massachusetts. The mall is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and cafes. The perfect spot to walk and soak up the scenery as well as to grab those New-England-esque photos you’ve been dying to take.
2. Rockport, Massachusetts
Distance from Boston: About 50 minutes
This one is a a little off the path but it’s a really cute town so I figured I’d keep it on here. Rockport is a small town located on the coast of Massachusetts. It’s known for its rocky beaches, quaint shops, and art galleries. There are so many art galleries! Rockport is a great place to stop for a bite to eat and to stretch your legs.
Fun fact: they filmed scenes from The Proposal here with Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds!
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Halibut Point State Park
Halibut Point State Park is located near the town of Rockport. The park offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, granite cliffs, and tide pools. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the various trails near the ocean and also makes for a great spot for a picnic. If you’re looking for a fun and scenic place to spend a day, Halibut Point State Park is definitely worth a visit!
Crane Estate and Beach
Okay, someone will come for me on this since this is technically in neighboring town Ipswich, but it’s just too good to leave off this list. If you enjoy exploring large, well-maintained mansions and gardens with beautiful lawns, you’ll want to check this place out.
Crane Estate has the mansion and grounds to explore while you can also check out Crane Beach nearby for a fun day by the water. Some would argue this is the most beautiful beach in the state.
3. Newburyport, Massachusetts
Distance from Boston: About 45 minutes
Newburyport is another coastal town located in Massachusetts. This town is slightly larger than Rockport but still has a small-town feel. Newburyport is known for its yachting, shopping, and dining. You can also visit the Newburyport Maritime Museum to learn about the town’s maritime history.
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The Clipper City Rail Trail
The Clipper City Rail Trail is a 3.5-mile long trail located in Newburyport. The trail is perfect for biking, walking, or running, and offers stunning views of the Merrimack River. The Clipper City Rail Trail is a great spot if you’re looking to get some fresh air and exercise.
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge
Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is a great place for birdwatching, with over 300 species of birds that have been spotted in the area. There are also plenty of hiking trails to enjoy. The Refuge is open year-round making it a spot to enjoy in any season. Parker River National Wildlife Refuge is a great spot if you’re looking to explore nature and enjoy some time away from the city vibes.
4. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Distance from Boston: About a 1-hour drive
Portsmouth is a beautiful coastal town located in New Hampshire. Portsmouth is known for its lively downtown area with great shopping and dining. There are plenty of historic sites to see, awesome tax-free shopping to take advantage of, and beautiful waterfront views to enjoy. It’s also a pretty close drive from Boston and has several restaurants you can’t miss.
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The Strawbery Banke Museum
The Strawbery Banke Museum is definitely worth a visit. This spot is a close walk from downtown and is a great way to learn more about the history of Portsmouth. This 10-acre open-air museum is located on the site of a 17th-century settlement. We recommend starting with the Visitor Center. There are several buildings to explore, so if you get overwhelmed, check with the staff for suggestions or extra information.
Prescott Park
Prescott Park is a 10-acre park located in downtown Portsmouth. The park is home to a number of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and farmer’s markets. Prescott Park is also a great place to take a walk or relax, with beautiful views of the Piscataqua River. This is a short walk from town and is definitely a great place to stretch your legs or unwind from traveling. There’s also parking nearby for easy access.
Isles of Shoals
The Isles of Shoals are a group of small islands located off the coast of New Hampshire and Maine. The islands have been home to a number of different types of people over the years, including fishermen, pirates, and even a poet. Today, the islands are home to a number of different restaurants and shops. One of the most popular islands (it’s also the largest) is Star Island. You can take a ferry to the island and even go on a walking tour of the Isles of Shoals, and it’s sure to be an experience to remember.
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5. Ogunquit, Maine
Distance from Boston: About 1 hour and 15 minutes
Ogunquit is a small town located along the Maine coast. It’s known for its beaches, art galleries, and boutique shops. Ogunquit is also home to the Ogunquit Playhouse, one of the oldest summer stock theaters in the country.
A popular activity is to take the Ogunquit trolley through town to see all the sights. Or, if you’re not into sightseeing, you can stop by one of the beautiful beaches in the area including Ogunquit Beach or Footbridge Beach.
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Perkins Cove
Perkins Cove is a small fishing village located in Ogunquit, Maine. The village is home to a few small shops and restaurants, as well as a working harbor. This is a great spot to grab a bite to eat, with plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from.
This is a popular summer spot that many love walking around, including walking across the drawbridge nearby. If you’re looking for a relaxing day by the water in a quaint village, Perkins Cove is definitely your spot.
Marginal Way
Marginal Way is a 1.25-mile long scenic walking path located in Ogunquit. The path offers beautiful ocean views and is a great spot for a leisurely stroll. There are also a few restaurants and cafes located nearby, making it the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat after a walk. The trail finishes at Perkins Cove, which is a lovely location that looks like it was taken right out of a movie.
6. Kennebunkport, Maine
Distance from Boston: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
Kennebunkport is a popular summer destination located in Maine. It’s known for its beaches, golf courses, and luxury hotels. Kennebunkport is also home to the Bush family compound (Walker’s Point), which is worth a visit if you’re interested in politics or history.
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Cape Porpoise Harbor
Cape Porpoise Harbor is a small harbor located in Kennebunkport. The harbor is home to a working lobster pier, as well as a few small shops and restaurants. This is a great spot to enjoy the quintessential Maine lobster dinner.
There are also beautiful ocean views, making it the perfect spot to enjoy a sunset. You can also catch a view of the Goat Island lighthouse, which is a historic beacon that has been in operation since 1833.
Kayak the Kennebunk River
The Kennebunk River is a 17.6 mile long river located in southern Maine. The river is popular for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. There are also a few hiking trails located along the river. Picnics on the Kennebunk River are also a lot of fun. There are plenty of scenic spots to enjoy a peaceful lunch with friends or family. If you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, this is a perfect spot.
7. Portland, Maine
Distance from Boston: About 1 hour and 45 minutes
Portland is the largest city in Maine and is located just a few hours from Acadia National Park. This charming city is known for its fresh seafood, beautiful waterfront, and lively arts scene. Be sure to check out the Old Port district and take a stroll down Commercial Street. Downtown Portland has so much to offer.
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Old Port
The Old Port is a historic district in Portland, Maine. It’s known for its cobblestone streets, 19th-century buildings, and waterfront views. There are plenty of shops and restaurants to explore in the area, as well as a few museums. Located nearby is the Wharf area on Commercial Street, which is also definitely a spot you need to check out.
Fort Williams Park
Fort Williams Park is a 90-acre park located in Cape Elizabeth, Maine. The park is home to the iconic Portland Head Light, as well as a few other historic landmarks. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful ocean views. Fort Williams Park is the perfect spot for a day trip right outside of Portland.
The Portland Museum of Art
The Portland Museum of Art is the oldest and largest art museum in Maine. The museum is home to a wide variety of art, from paintings and sculptures to photographs and prints. There are also a few rotating exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see. The Portland Museum of Art is worth a visit if you’re interested in art and culture.
8. Rockland, Maine
Distance from Boston: About 3 hours and 15 minutes
Rockland is a small city located in Maine. It’s known for its historic downtown area, beautiful coastline, and fresh seafood. Rockland is also home to the Farnsworth Art Museum, which houses a collection of American art from the 19th and 20th centuries.
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Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are located in Boothbay, Maine. The gardens are home to over 300 acres of land, with beautiful flowers, plants, and trees. There are also a few ponds and streams located throughout the gardens.
Don’t forget to look for the Giant Trolls which are hidden throughout the gardens! The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are a great spot to enjoy a day outside, surrounded by nature.
Rockland Harbor Breakwater Lighthouse
The Rockland Harbor Breakwater Lighthouse is located in Rockland. The lighthouse is open to the public and offers stunning views of the harbor. This spot sits at the end of a long pier, making it the perfect place to walk as well as to catch a beautiful sunset or even see a dolphin!
Visitors can climb up to the top of the lighthouse for stellar harbor views. The Rockland Harbor Breakwater Lighthouse is a great spot for those who love being by the water and enjoying some fresh sea air.
Acadia National Park – Exploring the Park
Phew, that was a lot right? So many places along the way, and you haven’t even made it to your destination! So what do you do when you finally make it to Acadia National Park from Boston? Here’s some fun ideas of what to see, where to visit, and how to spend your day(s) in one of the most beautiful National Parks.
Acadia National Park is located on Mount Desert Island off the coast of Maine. The park is home to a variety of activities and attractions, including hiking trails, a visitor’s center, and scenic drives.
Acadia National Park also offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Hulls Cove Visitor Center
The Hulls Cove Visitor Center is the perfect place to start your exploration of Acadia National Park. The visitor center offers different ranger-led programs as well as information about different hikes in the area.
There are also a few exhibits located in the visitor center. Overall, this is a great first stop to learn more about Acadia National Park, grab a tour guide, or learn about the area’s different trails and activities. The Visitor Center is a must-stop spot for those exploring Acadia National Park.
Cadillac Mountain
Cadillac Mountain is the highest point on the Eastern seaboard and offers stunning views of Acadia National Park. The mountain offers stunning views of the surrounding area and is a popular spot for hiking and camping. There are also a few different lookout points located along the way to the top of the mountain. Cadillac Mountain is a great spot to take in and enjoy the beauty of Acadia National Park.
Pro tip: this is an amazing place to see the sunrise because it’s one of the first spots in the U.S. to see the sunrise.
Park Loop Road
The Park Loop Road is a scenic 27-mile road that winds through Acadia National Park. The road offers stunning views of the different mountains, forests, and lakes located in the park. There are also a few different pull-offs and lookout points along the way, which makes it the perfect spot to stop and take in the views. Some of the popular spots to drive to include Sand Beach and Thunder Hole, both of which are beautiful stops along the way.
The Park Loop Road is a must-do scenic loop for those exploring Acadia National Park. Just note that it’s a one-way road more often than not, so plan your route accordingly!
Carriage Roads
The Carriage Roads are a network of roads located throughout Acadia National Park. These were originally created for traveling via horse drawn carriages but are now perfect for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Within these roads there are quite a few different loops and routes that you can take.
One of the best ways to explore Carriage Roads is by bike. You can rent e-bikes in the Park pretty easily (try to in advance as it fills up, though). The Carriage Roads are a great way to explore Acadia National Park and take in all of the different sights and sounds of the park.
Schoodic Peninsula
The Schoodic Peninsula is located in Acadia National Park. The peninsula is home to beautiful forests and hiking trails. One of the best things about the Schoodic Peninsula is that it’s much less crowded than the rest of Acadia National Park. This is a great spot to get away from the crowds and enjoy some peace and quiet. Check out Schoodic Point to watch and listen to the waves crashing against the rocks. You’ll absolutely love this spot and don’t want to miss it!
Where to Stay in Acadia National Park
Once you’ve made your trip to Acadia National Park from Boston now it’s time to find a home base, hunker down into a nice cozy bed and enjoy your time in the park. Acadia National Park is located in the town of Bar Harbor, Maine and there are plenty of beautiful hotels and inns to stay at in the area. So how do you choose? Here’s some of our favorites and we think you’ll like them too.
Beautiful family-run guesthouse with 31 rooms. Comfortable rooms and the inn is about a 10 minute walk from downtown. This inn will make you feel right at home.
Located along the waterfront in downtown Bar Harbor, this is the perfect location for those looking at where to stay near Acadia National Park. Many of the rooms offer beautiful views of the ocean and there is an onsite restaurant where you can dine with those same beautiful views. Conveniently located, you can walk to just about anywhere in downtown Bar Harbor.
The Bar Harbor Grand Hotel is the perfect place to stay when visiting Acadia National Park. The hotel offers stunning ocean views and is just a short drive from the park. The hotel also offers a free shuttle to and from the park. The Bar Harbor Grand Hotel is a great option for those looking for a luxurious and convenient place to stay while exploring Acadia National Park.
How do you get from Boston to Acadia?
There are a few ways to get from Boston to Acadia National Park. The most common way is to take I-95 North and then US-1A till you see signs for Acadia National Park.
The other option (which is what this post is based off of) is to take I-95 North to Portsmouth, New Hampshire and then take the turnpike/toll road towards Kittery, Maine. After crossing into Maine, take US-1 North towards Acadia National Park.
Which is better? Honestly, it depends on your route and what you want to see. If you want to take the more scenic route and stop in places like Portsmouth and Portland, then I would recommend taking I-95 North to Portsmouth and then US-1 North as it’s the more coastal route.
If you’re looking for a quicker drive with fewer stops, then I would suggest taking I-95 North to Augusta and then US-1A.
Frequently Asked Questions – Acadia National Park from Boston
How many days do I need to take the Acadia National Park from Boston road trip?
For this scenic road trip, you could make the trip in as little as one day, but I would recommend at least two or three days. That way, you can explore all of the coastal small towns on your way to the Park at a leisurely pace.
Best time to go on a road trip from Boston to Acadia National Park
The summer is a great time to visit for the best hiking and if you’re planning on doing any swimming or water activities. Be aware though that it’s busy during summer. Another beautiful time to visit Acadia National Park is in the fall when the leaves are changing color.
However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, I would recommend visiting Acadia National Park in the spring or early summer.
Is the drive from Boston to Acadia National Park pretty?
The drive from Boston to Acadia National Park is 100% beautiful. I love all of the coastal small towns along the way and the ocean views.
Another beautiful time to drive for the scenery would be in the fall. The leaves are changing colors, and the scenery is simply incredible.
Best cities between Boston and Acadia National Park
Some of the best small coastal towns to stop at between Boston and Acadia National Park include Portsmouth, Portland, and Kennebunkport. Of course, there are so many others to see, but these are some of the top places to explore on your road trip.
Related: Boston to Nantucket Day Trip
The Wrap-Up: Acadia National Park From Boston
Acadia National Park is a beautiful destination that should be on everyone’s bucket list. If you’re looking for an amazing road trip experience, make sure to check out Acadia National Park from Boston. There are tons of things to see and do along the way, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. Happy travels!
Have you been to Acadia National Park before? What tips would you add to this road trip guide? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
