Flying visit

Question

Advice needed as we are road tripping Canada but instead of going back the same way plus a daughter super obsessed with cape Elizabeth on. Ian Kahan we want to drop into Maine before heading back out on a route to Toronto (just to give idea of travel directions)

Recommended places to stay overnight after a long drive that will allow visit to a few lighthouses

Any recommendations greatly appreciated

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a lovely road trip through Canada and Maine, and I'd be happy to offer some suggestions! If you're driving from Canada toward Toronto and want to take in some of the beautiful Maine coastline, especially lighthouses, here's a good route and some great places to stay overnight. Since you're interested in visiting Cape Elizabeth and nearby lighthouses, you have a variety of options for a scenic drive and charming places to rest during your journey.

1. Cape Elizabeth

If your daughter is particularly obsessed with Cape Elizabeth, I'd recommend staying at or near this area for your first overnight stop. The town is home to two well-known lighthouses, Portland Head Light and Two Lights State Park, both of which are very scenic and perfect for a leisurely visit. After a long drive, Cape Elizabeth offers a relaxing and picturesque stop before continuing your trip.

Portland Head Light: This lighthouse is one of the most photographed in the U.S. and offers great views, walking trails, and a museum inside the lighthouse keeper's house.
Two Lights State Park: Another great spot for lighthouse views and a bit of a quieter atmosphere compared to Portland Head.

For accommodations in Cape Elizabeth, here are a few options:

The Inn by the Sea: A lovely, upscale option right near Crescent Beach and close to the lighthouses. It’s perfect for relaxation after a long day of driving.
Cape Elizabeth Oceanfront Inn: A more budget-friendly option with beautiful views of the ocean.

2. Portland

If you'd prefer a more urban setting after your drive, you can head to Portland, which is just a short drive from Cape Elizabeth. Portland offers a great mix of activities and attractions, and you can visit even more lighthouses, such as Spring Point Ledge Light and Bug Light. Portland also has a fantastic food scene and other attractions like the Old Port District.

Portland Head Light: While technically in Cape Elizabeth, it's close enough to Portland to be included in your exploration of the city’s lighthouses.
Spring Point Ledge Light: Located on the campus of Southern Maine Community College, this lighthouse is accessible by a walkway and provides stunning views of Casco Bay.
Bug Light: This is another charming lighthouse located in South Portland, close to the entrance to Portland Harbor.

In Portland, you have a variety of accommodations, including:

The Press Hotel: A stylish boutique hotel located right in the heart of Portland, offering easy access to downtown attractions, restaurants, and the waterfront.
Portland Harbor Hotel: Located in the Old Port district, this hotel offers a charming atmosphere and easy access to local shops and restaurants.
Best Western Merry Manor Inn: A more budget-friendly option that’s still close to the city, with great amenities for families.

3. Freeport

If you want to venture a little further north, Freeport is another great option. It’s known for its outlets and a few scenic spots along the coast, but it also has nearby lighthouses and is a great halfway point between Portland and your next stop. The nearby lighthouses include the Pott’s Point Lighthouse and the famous Cape Elizabeth lighthouses if you choose to loop back.

Portland Head Light: It's only a short drive from Freeport and worth visiting again if you haven't had enough of it!

Some places to stay in Freeport:

Harraseeket Inn: A historic inn with cozy rooms and a great reputation for its service and location near the outlet shops.
Freeport Inn & Marina: A family-friendly option that offers easy access to the shops and nearby attractions.

4. Camden

If you have a bit more time, consider making a stop further up the coast in Camden, a lovely town with beautiful harbor views and a quaint, small-town atmosphere. Camden is known for its charming streets, scenic views, and is a perfect place to explore Maine’s coastal beauty. The town is home to the Curtis Island Lighthouse, which is visible from the harbor, and the Rockport Harbor Lighthouse, just a short drive away.

Curtis Island Lighthouse: This lighthouse is located just off the coast of Camden and can be viewed from the harbor.
Rockport Harbor Lighthouse: Another beautiful lighthouse in the area, just a short drive away from Camden.

In Camden, there are several nice places to stay:

The Camden Harbour Inn: A boutique hotel offering a luxury experience with stunning harbor views.
Lord Camden Inn: A more affordable option right in the center of town, offering easy access to the harbor and nearby attractions.

5. Road Routes: Highway 1 vs. I-95

If you're looking for the most scenic route, Highway 1 (also known as the Coastal Route) is your best bet. It’s slower but provides plenty of opportunities to stop and explore the coastline, beaches, and lighthouses. On the other hand, I-95 is much quicker and would be a good choice if you want to make better time, but you’ll miss out on the charming small towns along the coast.

Overall, I recommend sticking to the coastal route if you want to make the most of your time in Maine and experience the beautiful coastal scenery. If time is tight, I-95 will get you to Toronto faster, but it’s worth detouring for some of these charming towns and lighthouses if you have the time.

Safe travels, and enjoy your time exploring Maine’s stunning coastline!