Acadia to Boston

Question

We are planning a family trip to travel from Bar Harbor to Boston this summer. We have a full 7 days and are hoping to add another area of the east coast during or trip. We plan to fly out of Boston. Looking for any recommendations for trip additions and the best place to fly out. Thank you!

Answer

It sounds like a fantastic trip with a great amount of time to explore both Bar Harbor and Boston, and you're also looking for an additional destination to add some variety to your itinerary. Here are a few suggestions that combine scenic routes, interesting destinations, and manageable travel times to help you make the most of your seven days:

1. Acadia National Park to Portland, ME After spending some time in Acadia, consider stopping in Portland for a day or two. Portland is a vibrant coastal city known for its charming Old Port district, beautiful lighthouses, and excellent seafood. The drive from Bar Harbor to Portland takes about 3-4 hours, making it an easy stop. In Portland, you can visit:

Portland Head Light – One of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S.
Old Port District – A historic area with cobblestone streets, boutiques, and great places to eat.
Casco Bay Islands – Consider a short ferry ride to explore one of the nearby islands.

2. New Hampshire's White Mountains If you enjoy outdoor activities and scenic views, consider driving south into New Hampshire’s White Mountains. The drive from Portland to the White Mountains is about 2 hours. You can take scenic drives like the Kancamagus Highway, hike in the Franconia Notch State Park, or take a ride on the Mount Washington Cog Railway. The area is perfect for hiking, and you’ll be surrounded by lush forests and mountain peaks.

3. The Berkshires, Massachusetts If you want to experience some rural charm, art, and culture, consider a trip to the Berkshires in western Massachusetts. It’s a lovely 3-hour drive from Portland. The Berkshires offer a slower pace with beautiful scenery and cultural attractions like:

Mass MoCA (Massachusetts Museum of Contemporary Art) – A fantastic museum in North Adams.
Norman Rockwell Museum – Located in Stockbridge, it’s great for art lovers.
The Mount – The historic home of author Edith Wharton in Lenox.

4. Cape Cod, Massachusetts If you have some time left after visiting Boston, Cape Cod is a great option for a relaxed beach town experience. You can reach Cape Cod from Boston in about 1.5-2 hours. Spend a day or two relaxing by the beach, exploring picturesque villages, and eating fresh seafood. Some highlights in Cape Cod include:

Provincetown – At the tip of the Cape, this vibrant town is known for its art scene and beautiful beaches.
Cape Cod National Seashore – Miles of pristine beaches and scenic walking trails.
Nauset Lighthouse – A lovely spot for photos and a glimpse into Cape Cod’s maritime history.

5. Day Trip to Salem, MA If you’re short on time but want a fascinating historical stop, take a day trip to Salem, MA, which is just about a 45-minute drive from Boston. Known for its infamous witch trials, Salem has numerous museums, historical homes, and a great walking tour around the historic district. It's a small but interesting town for history buffs.

6. Best Place to Fly Out: Boston Since you're planning to fly out of Boston, it makes sense to end your trip there. Boston is a major transportation hub with excellent flights to most domestic and international destinations. You can explore the highlights of the city, including:

The Freedom Trail – A walking route that connects key historical sites in the city.
Boston Common and Public Garden – The oldest park in the U.S. with beautiful greenery and swan boats in the pond.
Fenway Park – If you’re a baseball fan, consider catching a Red Sox game.
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum – A unique museum with beautiful art and a tranquil courtyard.

Summary: For a well-rounded trip, I suggest stopping in Portland for a taste of Maine’s coastline, spending time in the White Mountains or the Berkshires for scenic outdoor activities, and ending in Boston to explore the city’s rich history and culture. Depending on your interests, Cape Cod or Salem could be great add-ons as well. With seven days, this gives you a mix of city exploration, nature, and relaxation before your flight home.

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