This summer, my friends and I decided it was time for a much-needed escape. We were all feeling the weight of our monotonous 9-to-5 routines, stuck in a cycle of work, commute, repeat. You know the feeling—the days blur together, and before you know it, you’re longing for an adventure, a change of pace, something that feels fresh and exciting. So, we packed our bags, loaded up the car, and set off on a road trip to Maine, a place we’d heard so much about but had yet to experience.
There’s something magical about road trips, especially when you’re heading up the East Coast. The landscape shifts before your eyes, from bustling cities to peaceful rural stretches, and eventually, you find yourself on coastal roads where the ocean glimmers under the sunlight. Maine’s coastline, in particular, is something out of a dream—rugged cliffs, dense forests, and charming little towns that seem frozen in time. As we drove along, windows down and music blasting, I couldn’t help but feel the anticipation building. This wasn’t just a trip; it was a much-needed reset.
Maine is a state that invites exploration. It’s known for its natural beauty, from the iconic rocky shores to the rolling forests, but there’s so much more beneath the surface. We didn’t have a rigid itinerary—just a loose idea of the places we wanted to visit, leaving room for spontaneity and discovery along the way. And let me tell you, Maine delivered. From scenic hikes to the freshest seafood you can imagine, it’s a place that manages to feel both vast and intimate at the same time.
The drive into coastal Maine felt like a breath of fresh air after our usual cityscape views. Lush, green forests hugged the roads, occasionally breaking to reveal glimpses of the sparkling Atlantic. We were headed to some of Maine’s most iconic spots, but little did we know that the journey itself would be just as rewarding as the destinations. Each stop offered something new—whether it was a secluded beach, a small-town bakery, or an incredible sunset view that made us pull over and just soak it in.
Maine, with its quiet charm and natural beauty, promised to be the perfect remedy for our city-weary souls. Our first major stop? The crown jewel of Maine: Acadia National Park.
And from there, the adventure only got better.
01 - Acadia National Park: Maine’s Crown Jewel
When people say you can’t visit Maine without experiencing Acadia National Park, they aren’t exaggerating. This park is a natural paradise that takes up much of Mount Desert Island, and it’s a haven for anyone who loves the great outdoors. Whether you're an avid hiker, a casual stroller, or just someone who loves to take in the beauty of nature, Acadia delivers.
One of the most popular routes is the Park Loop Road—a scenic 27-mile drive that offers endless photo-worthy spots. We stopped constantly, unable to resist the jaw-dropping views of cliffs that plunge dramatically into the sea. For adventure seekers, hiking trails like the Precipice Trail offer steep climbs and unforgettable vistas. And for those like me, who want a more laid-back experience, the pull-off points along the road provide plenty of opportunities to soak in the views.
02 - Jordan Pond: More Than Just a Picture-Perfect Spot
When we reached Jordan Pond, it was as though we had stepped into a painting. Formed by glaciers, this tarn is framed by steep inclines on both sides and boasts some of the clearest water I’ve ever seen. With visibility measured at up to 60 feet, it’s not hard to imagine how mesmerizing this spot truly is.
The pond itself is 150 feet deep at its deepest point, and while you can’t swim here, it’s perfect for non-motorized boating. Kayakers and canoeists can glide across the mirror-like surface of the water, starting from the launch at the Jordan Pond North parking lot, just a short walk from the famous Jordan Pond House Restaurant. After our hike along the Carriage Roads, which wind through the forested area near the pond, we made our way to the restaurant for lunch.
I had heard about the legendary popovers served at Jordan Pond House, but experiencing them fresh from the oven, alongside a cup of hot tea, was pure bliss. The view from the restaurant is equally as iconic—the Bubble Mountainsreflecting perfectly in the still water of the pond. It’s no wonder this spot is one of the most photographed in the park.
03 - Cadillac Mountain: Sunrise Over the Cliffs
For anyone who loves panoramic views, a visit to Cadillac Mountain is a must. It’s the highest point on the North Atlantic Seaboard, and standing at the summit, you feel as if the world is laid out before you. The sunrise here is legendary, and though we missed out on the coveted sunrise pass (they sell out quickly), the view in the afternoon was no less breathtaking.
If you’re a fan of hiking, there are plenty of trails that will take you up to Cadillac Mountain, but if you’re more into relaxing, the scenic drive is equally as satisfying. Just make sure to reserve your pass in advance to access the summit!
04 - Bar Harbor: Coastal Charm at Its Finest
After a day of adventuring in Acadia, Bar Harbor was the perfect place to unwind. This picturesque town is the gateway to the national park and offers all the charm you’d expect from coastal Maine. The Shore Path is a beautiful walking trail that takes you along the edge of the harbor, where you can see everything from luxury yachts to lobster boats bobbing in the water.
We found a cozy spot near the water for a picnic, and indulged in freshly baked blueberry pie—an absolute must when in Maine. Bar Harbor’s quaint streets are lined with restaurants, bakeries, and boutiques, making it easy to spend hours wandering around.
05 - Portland Head Light: Iconic New England
One of the most iconic sights in Maine is undoubtedly Portland Head Light. Nestled in Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, this historic lighthouse offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. As we arrived just before sunset, the sky transformed into shades of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the jagged coastline. It’s one of those places that feels straight out of a postcard, and the perfect backdrop for a quiet moment of reflection.
06 - Peaks Island: Laid-Back Island Vibes
Just a short ferry ride from Portland, Peaks Island is a little slice of paradise. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to take a break from the mainland hustle. We made our way to Il Leone Wood-Fired Pizza, where the entire kitchen is housed in a trailer and the pizza is nothing short of perfection. Sitting under twinkling bistro lights with a slice of pizza in hand, it felt like time slowed down.
Before leaving Maine, we couldn’t resist stopping at The Holy Donut. This local institution is known for its potato-based donuts, which might sound unusual, but trust me, they are out of this world. Light, fluffy, and with just the right amount of sweetness, it’s no wonder these donuts are a Maine staple. We sampled a few flavors, but the classic glazed and blueberry stood out as my favorites. If you’re ever in Portland, it’s a stop you won’t regret.
07 - Sunset Cruise and Stroll Along Commercial Street
One of the highlights of visiting Portland, Maine, is winding down with a sunset cruise on Casco Bay aboard the Portland Schooner. The cruise offers stunning views of the rugged coastline, lighthouses, and picturesque islands as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of pink and gold. It's a peaceful, scenic way to end the day and soak in the beauty of Maine’s coastline from the water.
After your cruise, take a leisurely stroll along the cobbled streets of Commercial Street, right by the bay. The area is bustling with some of the best spots for food and drinks, whether you’re in the mood for crisp local ciders, indulgent lobster rolls, or comfort food like the griddled cheese at The Friendly Toast. For a sweet treat, pop into Standard Baking Co. for freshly baked goods.
If you're in the mood for something different, explore the plethora of Irish pubs or even check out a THC/CBD-friendly café if that's your vibe. For a lively evening, the waterfront offers happy hours and boat parties at The Porthole, where you can enjoy live music and cocktails as the night unfolds. It’s the perfect mix of relaxation and indulgence, all within walking distance of the bay.
08 - Exploring a Blueberry Farms in Maine
Maine is famous for more than just its lobster rolls—it's also home to some of the best wild blueberries in the world. Visiting a local blueberry farm during your trip is a quintessential Maine experience that gives you a taste of the state’s agricultural heritage. The blueberry industry has been vital to Maine's economy for generations, with the wild variety thriving in the state’s unique, rugged landscape.
At a farm, you can wander the fields, pick your own berries, and enjoy fresh blueberry treats like jams, pies, and even non-alcoholic blueberry sodas. It’s a simple yet rewarding way to connect with Maine's local culture, and you'll leave with both delicious berries and a deeper appreciation for the tiny fruit that’s such an essential part of life here.
If you're visiting in August, don't miss the Machias Wild Blueberry Festival, where the entire region celebrates this iconic fruit with food, crafts, and entertainment, making it the perfect time to explore the best of Maine's blueberry offerings.
Maine is a place that captures your heart with its stunning landscapes, charming towns, and rich history. Whether you’re hiking the cliffs of Acadia National Park, enjoying the tranquility of Jordan Pond, or indulging in a slice of blueberry pie by the water in Bar Harbor, there’s something here for everyone. This road trip was a reminder of the simple joys of travel—good food, great company, and the beauty of nature at every turn.
Love,
Rae
Image Credits - Vasilis Karkalas, T Rod, Blue Arauz
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