Amazing 7-Day Boston to Bar Harbor Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Planning a Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine road trip? You’re in for an amazing experience!

After taking a 7-day road trip up the coast from Boston, which was the first leg of our longer Fall road trip through all six New England states, I have put together the perfect plan for you.

If you follow this itinerary, you’ll get to explore the cutest coastal towns, see beautiful lighthouses, and enjoy some of the freshest seafood you’ll ever eat. Plus, you’ll end at the stunning Acadia National Park – the highlight of our trip to the Maine coast.

You’ll find all the info you need to plan your road trip in this post. I’ll share insider tips, the best stops, the most scenic roads, and the best things to do. This itinerary has it all!

So buckle up, and let’s get started.

A cobblestone street lined with historic red-brick buildings, decorated with greenery. An American flag hangs above the street, and gas lamps line the sidewalk. The fall leaves scattered on the ground and a tree with autumn foliage add warmth to this picturesque alleyway, in Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood.

My Favorite Resources to Help Plan Your Trip:

🏨 Best Accommodation site: Hotels.com

🚐 Best Tours Booking Site: Viator

🚗 Best Car Rental Site: Expedia

🛩️ Best Travel Insurance: SafteyWing

Quick Guide For Road Tripping Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine

How Long Is The Drive: About 5 hours without stops.

How Many Days Needed To Road Trip it? 7 days for a relaxed, full experience.

Best Time Of Year To Road Trip it? Late spring to early fall.

Best Towns to See Along the Way: Newburyport, York, Portland, Stonington.

Planning Your Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip

In this section, I’ll share easy tips to help you plan your road trip, from how many days you’ll need to picking the best accommodations for your trip.

How many Days Do You Need?

While you can technically drive from Boston to Bar Harbor in about 5 hours, stretching it out over 5 to 7 days lets you take the more scenic route and really enjoy the trip.

With a week, you can leisurely visit Maine’s charming coastal towns, stop at picturesque lighthouses, and eat lots of fresh seafood without feeling rushed. This way, you’ll have plenty of time to see all the must-see spots and make the most of your trip.

Kate walks barefoot along the Maine shoreline, with gentle waves rolling in behind her. She is wearing a light brown sweater and jeans, smiling as she enjoys the beach. The green-tinted water and sandy shore create a peaceful coastal scene, capturing a relaxing moment by the ocean.

Tips On Booking Accommodations

When it comes to booking accommodations for your Boston to Bar Harbor road trip, most people will tell you to book in advance, especially during peak season. But honestly, I don’t completely agree.

To Book in Advance or Not to Book in Advance?

Planning every stop will take the spontaneity out of the adventure. The best part of a road trip is having the freedom to explore and stumble upon hidden gems along the way!

On our trip, we didn’t make a single reservation in advance. We booked our stays the day of, depending on where we were, how far we wanted to drive, and how tired we felt. And we did this in the fall during peak foliage season, which is one of the busiest times of the year.

Of course, there’s a downside to booking on the fly—you might end up paying a bit more since the best deals get snatched up quickly. But if you’re up for an adventure, there are ways around this. Keep reading, and I’ll share a tip on how to find great last-minute places to stay while saving you lots of money below!

Book With Free Cancellations

On the other hand, if booking last minute gives you too much anxiety and you need to know exactly where you’ll be sleeping each night, then definitely book ahead. Just make sure to choose accommodations with free cancellations.

This is especially helpful if you’re taking the scenic route because there are so many irresistible stops along the way. Your Google Maps might say it’s just an hour or two to your next destination, but with all the sights to see, the drive could easily take you 3-4 hours. It’s better to have some flexibility so you can enjoy the journey at your own pace.

Kate, dressed in overalls, a red cardigan, and glasses, stands in a wooded area next to a camp fire during autumn, holding a drink. She rests one foot on a rock near a campfire, with fallen leaves covering the forest floor. The setting suggests a cozy outdoor camping evening in the fall, surrounded by nature.

Camping is a Great Option

Camping could be your answer to staying flexible, not worrying about accommodation reservations, and saving A LOT of money!

My husband and I discovered that camping is such a great way to road trip from Boston to Bar Harbor. We were chasing the fall colors and needed flexibility in our itinerary but we also wanted to do the trip as affordable as possible since New England during the Fall is quite expensive!

So, we decided to give the car camper route a try, and it turned out to be the best experience ever!

We rented a large SUV with seats that folded flat, bought an inexpensive blow-up mattress, and brought our sleeping bags and travel pillows with us. This setup was perfect and budget-friendly.

But, If sleeping in your car doesn’t sound appealing, consider renting an RV or camper from Outdoorsy for a more comfortable camping trip.

However, it’s important to know that some campgrounds begin to close in the fall, but we didn’t have much trouble because we opted for FREE or “Wild” camping when we could! Maine actually has quite a lot of free camping opportunities.

Pro Tip: If you want to find areas where you can camp for free, check out the BLM website and explore their interactive map or the USFS website for rules and regulations.

A view from inside a car, looking out through the windshield at a tree-lined road in the midst of autumn. The trees on both sides are filled with vibrant yellow and orange leaves, creating a tunnel of fall foliage. The peaceful, scenic drive captures the beauty of autumn in a wooded area.

Getting a Rental Car

For your Boston to Bar Harbor road trip, getting a rental car is a must!

When booking your rental car, choose a vehicle with enough space for any camping gear or luggage you plan to bring along.

Be sure to book early, especially during peak seasons, to get the best rates and options.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning to camp in the back of your car, look for SUVs with seats that fold flat, like the Subaru Outback, Ford Explorer, or Toyota 4Runner. These models make it easy to set up a cozy sleeping area in the back.

How to Use This Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine Itinerary

This itinerary is your recipe for an awesome road trip, but that doesn’t mean you need to follow it exactly. You can use it as a blueprint—whether you want to stick to it from start to finish or tweak it to suit your own style.

Maybe you want to spend extra days in Southern Maine exploring its rocky coastline, or take a detour to see more of Massachusetts. Go ahead and create your own ideal route.

One stop you absolutely shouldn’t miss thou is Acadia National Park, with its stunning views from Cadillac Mountain. It’s the furthest point on this trip, but you definitely won’t regret making the trip all the way up there.

If you’re craving more adventure, consider extending your road trip to explore even more of New England. The region is especially stunning in the fall, making it one of the top fall vacation spots in the US!

Note: This 7-day itinerary is designed in true road trip fashion, which means there’s quite a bit of driving, and most stays are for just one night. This allows you to cover a lot of ground and experience all the amazing sites and charming towns along the New England Coast.

Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip at a Glance

Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect on your Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine road trip.

Day 1 & 2: Boston

Day 3: Salem & Newburyport, MA & York, Maine

Day 4: Portland Maine

Day 5: Stonington & Bar Harbor

Day 6: Acadia National Park

Day 7: Return to Boston and Fly Home

The historic Old State House in Boston, a red-brick building adorned with white trim and gold sculptures of a lion and a unicorn on its rooftop corners. A large clock is centered above the main balcony, with tall windows flanking both sides. The building stands among modern high-rise structures, blending colonial architecture with the surrounding cityscape.

7-Day Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip Itinerary

This 7-day Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine road trip itinerary is modeled off of what we did and tweaked to help you make the most of every moment along this route. I’ve broken it down day by day, so you can easily follow along or customize it to fit your own travel style.

Note: This Itinerary begins and ends in Boston since it’s where we flew in and out of, and I presume you will probably do the same.

Now, let’s hit the road.

Day 1 & 2: Boston

Maybe you’re wondering if Boston is even worth visiting or if you should just bug out and get your road trip started.

I totally get it! The Maine coast is calling your name but you absolutely should spend a day or two exploring Boston.

Boston is not only a great launching point for your New England Coastal Road Trip, but it’s also a really cool city, bursting with rich history, amazing things to do, and delicious food. Don’t just breeze through!

Arrive in Boston on Day 1, get settled in, and start soaking up the city’s vibrant energy. Spend your first evening exploring some of downtown Boston by hopping into several fun pubs and walk along the waterfront.

A few of our favorite pubs were The Black Rose, The Broadside Tavern, Emmets, and Mr. Dooley’s.

Note: The pubs close earlier than normal in Boston, around 1-2 am. That old Puritan culture still runs through the City’s veins. Or maybe it’s because the T (Boston’s Metro) stops running at 1 am, and the inebriated need a way to get home.

Two people stand beside a bronze plaque embedded in the sidewalk marking the Boston Freedom Trail. The plaque features an arrow and the trail's name, surrounded by decorative leaves. One person wears white sneakers, and the other wears black and gray shoes, adding a personal touch to this historic landmark in Boston.

On Day 2, dive deeper into all that Boston has to offer. We chose to do a walking tour along the Freedom Trail, which hit just about all the main sites and charming neighborhoods on our list. We also found lots of great places to eat must-try New England foods like clam chowder and lobster rolls.

Note: You can choose to take a guided walking tour of the Freedom Trail to really get an understanding of just how cool this city is, or you can pick up a self-guided booklet and map from the visitor information booth at the Boston Common and do it on your own. Both have their advantages.

>>Here is the Guided Freedom Trail Tour we highly recommend!

Boston is an interesting city that mixes the old with the new well. Make sure you spend at least one whole day here.

How to Get Around in Boston

Boston’s metro, the T, makes it super easy to get around. Plus, Boston is pretty walkable, so you can explore all the must-see sites on foot.

Another great way to get around the city is by taking the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour or the fun and unique Duck Boat Sightseeing Tour. You don’t have to walk, and you’ll learn a lot more by listening to the history commentary.

>> Here is the link to book the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour in Boston!

>> Book the fun Duck Boat Tour in Boston HERE!

Honestly, driving and parking here is quite confusing and a pain, so it’s better to hold off on getting your rental car until you’re ready to leave the city.

Kate poses by a large chain and bollards on the edge of the Boston waterfront, with sailboats anchored in the harbor behind her. She is dressed warmly in a scarf, jacket, and white sneakers as the lights from the city glow in the distance, reflecting off the calm evening waters. The scene captures a peaceful moment at dusk by the harbor.

Best Things to do in Boston in One Day:

Take a walking tour of the Freedom Trail starting at the Boston Common
Wander through Beacon Hill – The cutest neighborhood in Boston
Shop and Eat at the Faneuil Hall Market and Boston Market Square.
Tour the USS Constitution, the oldest warship still afloat in the world today. And it’s FREE!
Explore the Historic North End and Eat some of the best Italian Food
If you don’t feel like walking to see everything, take one of the fun Duck Boat Tours

Where to stay in Boston

If you’re visiting Boston for the first time, I recommend booking accommodations in the downtown area, which offers easy access to the city’s top attractions.

We stayed at the Club Quarters Hotel for our first two nights in Boston. We chose this hotel for its good location and walking distance to all the highlights. The rooms were really comfortable and clean, and we loved the Pub and restaurant downstairs. Highly recommend this hotel.

But if it’s all booked up, here are my top hotel picks in Boston…

My Top Hotel Picks in Downtown Boston for First-timers

Club Quarters Hotel

The Dagny Boston

Hyatt Regency Boston

A serene sunset over a quiet beach in York,Maine, with the sun casting golden reflections on the wet sand and gentle waves lapping the shore. In the distance, charming seaside houses line the coast, basking in the warm evening light. The peaceful scene captures the beauty of a coastal New England town at dusk.

Day 3: Salem & Newburyport, MA & York, Maine

On Day 3, you’ll leave Boston behind and head to some of New England’s most charming coastal towns.

Start your day in Salem, MA, which is famous for its witch trials and spooky history.

Then, continue to the picturesque town of Newburyport, MA, which is known for its beautiful waterfront and quaint streets.

After exploring these two gems, zig-zag your way up the coast before making your way to York, Maine, for the night. York is a classic seaside town with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and plenty of New England charm.

Now, let’s explore what there is to see and do in each of these cute towns.

Salem, MA

Salem is an adorable small town with a big reputation, just about an hour from Boston.

Known for its spooky history and witch trial lore, Salem is a must-see, especially in the fall. But be prepared—this town is very popular and very crowded! But despite the crowds, Salem is a fascinating stop on your road trip.

How to get around Salem

Parking in Salem can be a nightmare, especially during peak seasons like fall. We spent 45 minutes driving around looking for a parking spot, so I recommend parking outside of town and taking an Uber in.

If you want to avoid the hassle altogether, there’s also a ferry that runs from Boston to Salem and back—perfect for a day trip if you decide to spend an extra day in Boston. This option saves you the trouble of finding parking and lets you enjoy a scenic boat ride along the coast.

>> Book the Ferry from Boston to Salem HERE!

Once you’re in Salem, everything is within easy walking distance, so you won’t even need to pick up your rental car for the road trip just yet if you took the ferry— maybe saving you some money!

Best Things to do in Salem in a Half Day:

History and Hauntings of Salem Guided Walking Tour
Visit the Salem Witch Museum to learn about the infamous witch trials.
Take a stroll through Salem’s Historic District to see beautiful old homes.
Stop by the House of the Seven Gables, a historic home with literary significance.
Walk along Salem’s waterfront for scenic views and fresh sea air.

Where to Stay in Salem

We decided to just spend a few hours exploring Salem and didn’t stay overnight. To be honest, it was pretty crowded when we visited in the fall, so we were happy to keep moving up the coast to somewhere quieter.

But if you’re planning to stay the night, I’ve found some of the cutest spots that I would definitely choose for a stay in Salem.

My Top Hotel Picks in Salem:

The Merchant

Silsbee’s by Daniels House

Newburyport, MA

Newburyport is such a beautiful coastal town and the perfect pit stop along your road trip.

We stopped here for lunch, a bit of shopping, and some exploring, and it was definitely worth it! With its waterfront restaurants, cute shops, and small-town New England feel, it’s an ideal place to stretch your legs before continuing up the coast.

Plan on spending an hour or two in this cute town.

Best Things to Do in Newburyport on a Quick Stop:

Enjoy lunch at one of the many waterfront restaurants.
Explore the shops and boutiques along State Street.
Wander through Waterfront Park for great views and fresh air.

Where to stay in Newburyport

We didn’t stay in Newburyport, but if you just can’t drive anymore, or maybe you spent too much time in Salem, this adorable town would be a great stop for the night.

I found some top picks for places to stay that I’m sure you will love.

My Top Hotel Picks in Newburyport:

Garrison Inn Boutique Hotel

Essex Street Inn and Suites

The sun sets behind the iconic Nubble Lighthouse, perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the ocean. The sky glows with warm hues of orange and yellow, casting a soft light over the water and the rugged coastline. Gentle waves crash against the rocks in this peaceful coastal scene.

York, Maine

York is a cute little beach town along the southern coast of Maine.

We chose this charming seaside spot to spend the night on our Boston to Bar Harbor road trip. With its sand beaches, scenic coastal walk, and classic New England feel, York is the perfect place to relax and soak in the coastal beauty of Maine.

And I have to mention, I had the best lobster roll of my entire trip here—seriously, if you haven’t tried one yet be sure to do it here!

A lobster roll served on a toasted bun, filled with fresh lobster meat, accompanied by a side salad with cucumbers, red onions, and greens. A small cup of melted butter and a pickle spear are placed next to the sandwich, offering a classic Maine seafood dish. The rustic wooden table adds to the cozy, casual dining setting.

Best Things to Do in York Maine, in a Half Day

Take a stroll along the York Cliff Walk for beautiful ocean views.
Eat fresh seafood—my favorite lobster roll was from the Union Bluff Hotel restaurant.
Watch the sunrise from the iconic Nubble Lighthouse—totally worth the early wake-up.
Grab a delicious home-cooked breakfast from The Goldenrod before heading back on the road.

Where to Stay in York

We camped at York Beach Camper Park, just outside of town. While it wasn’t a free campsite, it was very affordable and just a short 7-minute walk to the town center through quaint neighborhoods. It gave us a great base for exploring the cute coastal town of York.

If camping isn’t your style, I’ve picked out a few top places to stay in York that will give you a cozy night’s rest.

My Top Hotel Picks in York Maine:

Anchorage Inn and Resort

Union Bluff Hotel

Stage Neck Inn

The iconic Portland Head Light stands tall on a rocky cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in Portland, Maine. A bright blue sky and calm waters frame the scene, with a sailboat and another distant lighthouse visible on the horizon. The red-roofed lighthouse buildings add a classic coastal charm to this popular New England destination.

Day 4: Portland

Portland was one of the coolest stops on our Boston to Bar Harbor road trip! This vibrant coastal town has a mix of history, charm, and, of course, some of the best fresh lobster you’ll ever taste!

We spent a few hours wandering around downtown Portland, exploring the cute streets, and grabbing a delicious lobster lunch right on the pier.

And, as a fun bonus, we even shipped some fresh lobsters home to my parents for their anniversary. What better way to make up for missing it than with fresh lobsters straight from the Maine coast?

A visit to the Portland Head Light, the world’s most photographed lighthouse, is also a must.

Two trays featuring traditional Maine lobster meals with whole boiled lobsters, corn on the cob, and sides of French fries and potato salad. A small dish of melted butter is included for dipping, along with a lemon wedge and a side of cocktail sauce. The bright, fresh seafood spread reflects a quintessential dining experience in coastal Maine.

Best Things to do in Portland, ME , in a Half Day

Tour the Portland Head Light for stunning coastal views.
Take a Vintage Lobster Boat Tour of the harbor or go on a whale watching tour.
Explore the shops and galleries in downtown Portland.
Enjoy fresh lobster at one of the many seafood spots by the water.

Where to stay in Portland, ME

We did not stay in Portland, but we wish we had for a little more time in this cool town. But if you want to stay here, I highly recommend staying in the Old Port area.

It’s the best location that’s within walking distance to amazing restaurants, shops and the popular waterfront activities. You’ll be right in the middle of the best of Portland.

My Top Hotel Picks in Portland, Maine

Portland Harbor Hotel

Portland Regency Hotel & Spa

Canopy by Hilton Portland Waterfront

A view of charming seaside homes and buildings on stilts along the waterfront in Stonington, Maine. The houses, with their weathered gray exteriors, sit along the rocky shoreline with seaweed-covered rocks exposed during low tide. The scene captures the peaceful, rustic beauty of this coastal town under a partly cloudy sky.

Day 5: Stonington & Bar Harbor

On Day 5 of your Boston to Bar Harbor road trip, you’ll explore two of Maine’s most charming coastal towns: Stonington and Bar Harbor.

Stonington, known for its coastal scenery and historic charm, is the largest working lobster port on the New England coast. It offers the perfect mix of small-town life and stunning views of the rocky coast.

After Stonington, you’ll head about an hour north to Bar Harbor, a lively town that’s the gateway to Acadia National Park and is filled with amazing views, cute shops, and delicious places to eat.

Let’s take an even closer look at both towns and all the things they have to offer.

Stonington, Maine

Stonington is one of the most picturesque towns on the Maine coast, and in my opinion, the most charming town on this entire road trip. But I have a soft spot for small towns so I may be biased just a little.

It’s the largest working lobster port in New England, and you can feel that authentic, working-town vibe as you explore. My favorite part is the colorful houses with bright doors lining the streets.

Naturally, we had to eat lobster again! I tried lobster stew while my husband went for a lobster patty melt. We’re on a mission to enjoy lobster in every way possible! Can you tell?

Kate in a light jacket enjoys a warm drink while standing on a dock overlooking the harbor in Stonington, Maine. Fishing crates and wooden piers line the water, with small boats anchored in the distance against a backdrop of forested islands. The overcast sky adds to the quiet, coastal atmosphere of this scenic harbor town.

Best Things to do in Stonington in a Few Hours

Walk around the harbor and watch the lobster boats in action.
Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the local lobster shacks.
Stroll through the town’s small galleries and shops.
Take in the picturesque scenery along the coast.

Where to Stay in Stonington

We camped just outside of Stonington at a little campground called Oceanfront Camping at Reach Knolls, right on the coast, about two south of Bar Harbor. It was peaceful and offered beautiful views of the ocean—perfect for a night under the stars before continuing our journey.

Bar Harbor

You made it! Your final destination on this road trip.

Bar Harbor is such a cool town with a lively atmosphere and plenty of rocky coasts to explore. It’s the perfect home base for exploring nearby Acadia National Park.

We spent the rest of the day exploring all the cute shops and walking along the shore path, and of course eating delicious seafood.

Oh, and we tried lobster ice cream here! Of course, we did, lol.

I have to admit, it wasn’t bad, but it’s not a flavor I’d go for again. Still, it’s definitely worth trying, just to say you did!

Kate in a light gray jacket, holding a small cup of ice cream and a red shopping bag, poses next to a bright red lobster statue holding an oversized ice cream cone outside a shop in Bar Harbor, Maine. The shop window features signs like "Hot Pretzels" and "Homemade Fudge."

Best Things to Do In Bar Harbor

Walk the Shore Path for stunning ocean views.
Try lobster ice cream for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Stroll through the charming and walkable downtown area.
Take a scenic schooner cruise around Frenchman Bay to enjoy breathtaking views and the sunset

Where to Stay in Bar Harbor

We stayed at the Holiday Inn Resort Bar Harbor, mainly because I caught a chill from exploring all day and really needed a hot tub. It was the most affordable option with a hot tub on a spur-of-the-moment booking, and it was a great spot for the night.

If you’re looking for other options, I’ve found a couple more top hotel picks for staying in Bar Harbor—you’ll find them below! But these will be booked up early, so you will want to make reservations early!

My Top Picks for Hotels in Bar Harbor

The Inn on Mount Desert Island

Atlantic Oceanside Hotel

A stunning view from a rocky overlook in Acadia National Park, showcasing a vibrant autumn landscape. The rolling hills are covered in a mix of green, orange, and red foliage, leading down to a distant lake under a partly cloudy sky. The scenery highlights the park's natural beauty during the fall season.

Day 6: Acadia National Park

Spend Day 6 fully immersed in natural beauty and explore Acadia National Park.

This stunning park, located on Mount Desert Island, offers some of the best views of the AtlanticOcean and the Maine coast. With its many hiking trails, dramatic cliffs, and scenic drives, you could easily spend days here, but even one full day gives you plenty of time to explore.

Whether you’re hiking the trails, chilling on Sand Beach, or watching the first sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, Acadia delivers some of the most breathtaking sights you’ll find in New England.

Be sure to dedicate at least one whole day to exploring Acadia National Park.

Photo of a hilltop at sunrise, admiring the view from Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park. The sun rises over the horizon, casting a warm glow over the surrounding trees and distant waters, creating a serene and breathtaking landscape.

Best Things to Do in Acadia National Park

Watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain (the place to see the first sunrise in the U.S.!)
Explore the Bass Harbor Lighthouse for amazing coastal views.
Relax at Sand Beach, surrounded by rocky cliffs.
Take a scenic drive along the Park Loop Road.
Hike one of the many trails, like Beehive Trail, for an adventurous climb or Jordan Pond Path for a more leisurely walk around the crystal-clear pond.

>> Be Sure to Get This Acadia National Park Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour!

A picturesque white lighthouse stands atop a rocky cliff overlooking the blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Surrounded by evergreen trees, the lighthouse provides a striking contrast against the clear blue sky in Acadia National Park. The rugged coastline and calm sea complete this classic New England coastal scene.

How to Get Around Acadia National Park

To get around Acadia National Park, you’ll need a vehicle permit, especially if you plan to drive up to Cadillac Mountain.

The Park Loop Road is the main route through the park, offering access to many of the top attractions, including Sand Beach and Jordan Pond.

There are also free shuttles that run during peak season, which can be a great way to explore without worrying about parking.

If you’re hiking or exploring by car, just be sure to arrive early, especially during the summer and fall, when the park is busiest.

Day 7: Return to Boston & Fly Home

I’m sad to say that today is the last day of this incredible road trip. Boo!

On your final day, it’s time to head back to Boston. The drive takes about 5 hours without stops if you take I-95, which is the fastest route. It’s not the most scenic route, as it’s mainly highways, but it’ll get you back in time to catch your flight.

I recommend booking a later flight so you have plenty of time to make the drive, return your rental car, and get through security without rushing.

Reminder: Before you return the rental car, don’t forget to top off the gas tank so you avoid those extra charges from the rental company.

A narrow harbor filled with fishing boats docked alongside weathered wooden piers, with lobster traps stacked on the docks. The rustic waterfront buildings and calm waters reflect the busy, yet peaceful atmosphere of a working fishing village in Maine. The scene captures a typical day in a coastal town.

Most Scenic Drives From Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine

If you want to see the cutest coastal towns and most scenic views along your Boston to Bar Harbor road trip, there are two scenic drives you want to add to your itinerary.

Both the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway and US Route 1 are a must. Whether you’re looking for historic lighthouses or picturesque seaside towns, these drives will make your road trip one for the books.

Essex Coastal Scenic Byway

The Essex Coastal Scenic Byway is a 90-mile stretch along the Massachusetts coast, passing through 14 beautiful coastal towns. Starting in Lynn, MA, and ending in Salisbury, MA, this route takes you through gems like Salem and Newburyport, both full of history and coastal charm.

The drive itself takes about 3 hours without stops, but with all the cute little towns and hidden spots along the way, you’ll want to take your time. It’s the most scenic route in Massachusetts and a must-drive before heading north to Maine.

US Route 1

US Route 1 is a scenic coastal drive that takes you along the coast of Southern, Maine, and through some of New England’s most charmingcoastal towns, like Portsmouth, Ogunquit, and Kennebunkport.

Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to stop at lighthouses, sandy beaches, and quaint downtowns full of shops and restaurants.

This drive is about 5 hours without any stops, but budget more time than that into your itinerary because you’ll definitely want to pull over A LOT to take in the views.

Must-Have Items for a Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip

Packing the right gear can make your Boston to Bar Harbor road trip more enjoyable and stress-free. Here are a few essentials you won’t want to forget to bring along!

Collapsible Travel Thermos

This thermos is perfect for those chilly coastal mornings or for keeping you caffeinated on your long drives. Plus, its collapsible design saves space in your bag when you’re not using it.

>> Get My Favorite Travel Thermos HERE!

Reusable Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is key, especially if you’re hiking or soaking up the sun on a sandy beach somewhere along the way. A reusable bottle will save you from constantly buying plastic ones, which is better for your wallet and the environment.

>> Get The Best Reusable Water Bottle HERE!

Charger Pack

Between using GPS, taking photos, and playing music, your phone battery can drain quickly. This nano portable charger fits perfectly in your pocket and will make sure you never run out of juice on the road.

>> Get My Favorite Nano Charger Pack HERE!

Light Jacket

The weather along thecoast can change quickly, and evenings can be quite chilly. A lightweight jacket will keep you comfortable while you stroll through towns or take in a sunset by the ocean.

>> Get My Favorite Lightweight Jacket HERE!

Compact Travel Camera

With all the scenic views, lighthouses, and charming towns, you’ll be taking a lot of photos! This compact camera gives you high-quality photos without taking up too much space in your bag.

>> Get The Best Compact Travel Camera HERE!

Kate sits at the back of an open car, preparing a snack with crackers and cheese. A red cooler, a paper bag, and a bottle of water are placed nearby, along with a can of Easy Cheese. The car's trunk is filled with travel essentials, including a backpack and pillows, suggesting a road trip or camping adventure.

Tips For Road Tripping Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine

Before you hit the road, check out these helpful tips to make your Boston to Bar Harbor road trip as smooth as possible. These tips can save you time, money, and stress!

Best Luggage for a Road Trip:

Duffle bags are the best choice for road trips and camping. I use a Patagonia Duffle with backpack straps. It’s been everywhere with me, especially on road trips. Duffle bags just fit better in the back of a car on road trips.

Don’t Get Hangry:

Keep snacks and drinks on hand during your trip. Pack a soft-sided cooler or use a backpack cooler that doubles as a carry-on when flying. Having food handy means no scrambling for a place to eat when you’re your getting hangry between towns.

Be ready to pay tolls on the roads:

There are tolls along the highways, especially on I-95, which is the fastest way back to Boston to catch your flight home. Make sure to have cash or a credit card ready, or consider using a toll pass like E-ZPass if your rental car is equipped with one. Having change on hand will save you from any last-minute stress at the toll booths!

Take the Scenic Route:

The scenic routes, like US Route 1 and the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway, are definitely worth the extra time. You’ll pass through the cutest coastal towns, see historic lighthouses, and enjoy beautiful views of the ruggedcoast. It’s the best way to experience the real charm of New England’s coast.

Download Some Maps:

You’ll have cell phone service in most places, but when you’re near the beach or inside AcadiaNational Park, you might lose signal. It’s a good idea to download maps ahead of time so you don’t get lost when your GPS goes out.

Be Prepared For Crowds:

New England can get pretty crowded, especially in the fall and summer. Places like Salem, Portland, and Bar Harbor are very popular tourist spots, so expect crowds and packed restaurants. Arriving early to popular attractions and being patient with crowds will make your experience smoother.

Parking is a Pain:

Finding parking will be a real pain in popular spots like Portland, Salem, and Bar Harbor. Street parking is limited, and lots can fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons. It’s a good idea to park outside busy areas and walk or take an Uber into town when possible.

A man in a jacket and cap stands on a waterfront path in Bar Harbor, Maine, looking out over a calm bay dotted with small boats. Wooden docks and piers extend into the water, while forested islands and a blue sky with scattered clouds create a peaceful coastal scene. The setting reflects the charm of a quiet harbor town.

FAQ’s: Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine

Have more questions? Here are some quick answers to the most common questions about planning a Boston to Bar Harbor road trip. Hopefully, these help make your trip planning a little easier!

What is the best scenic route from Boston to Bar Harbor?

The best scenic route from Boston to Bar Harbor is US Route 1 along the coast of Maine. But if you have more time, the Essex Coastal Scenic Byway through Massachusetts is a beautiful drive, too.

Is Bar Harbor, Maine, worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely! Bar Harbor is full of charm, stunning views, and is the gateway to Acadia National Park.

Is There A Ferry From Boston To Bar Harbor?

No, there isn’t a ferry directly from Boston to Bar Harbor.

How Long Is The Drive From Boston To Bar Harbor?

The drive takes about 5 hours without stops if you take I-95.

How Many Days Should You Spend In Acadia National Park?

At least 1-2 days to explore the major sights, but 3 days will give you more time for hiking and a relaxed pace.

Where are the best places to see fall foliage from Boston to Bar Harbor?

All along the Coast of Maine. Especially towns like Kennebunkport, Camden, and Acadia National Park offer fantastic fall foliage.

That’s A Wrap On This Boston To Bar Harbor, Maine Road Trip!

I hope this guide has helped you plan the perfect Boston to Bar Harbor, Maine road trip! If you’re a lobster lover, I dare you to try it in as many ways as you can—are you up for the challenge?

I highly recommend taking this trip in the fall for an incredible bucket list experience.

And if you’re looking to extend your journey, don’t forget to grab my FREE New England Fall Road Trip Itinerary! It comes with a New England Bucket List and a packing list to make sure you’re fully prepared.

Catch ya later!