Where to go?

Question

Early planning for an August trip. Will probably start in Boston and head up to Maine along the coast. How far north should we go? Is Bangor far enough? Arcadia NP looks wonderful. We like nature and history. Thanks in advance.

Answer

Your August trip to Maine sounds fantastic! Starting in Boston and heading up the coast is a great way to experience the natural beauty and history of the region. Maine’s coastline is filled with charming towns, scenic vistas, and outdoor adventures. Below are some considerations and recommendations for how far north you should go and what to explore along the way.

Regarding how far north you should go, Bangor is definitely worth considering, but if you're interested in exploring the beauty of Acadia National Park and experiencing some of Maine's most stunning natural landscapes, I highly recommend continuing all the way up to Bar Harbor. Here's a breakdown of the journey and key stops:

Portland (1.5 hours from Boston) - A great first stop, Portland is a vibrant city known for its food scene, scenic waterfront, and historical charm. You can explore the Old Port district, take a boat tour, or visit the Portland Head Light, one of the most iconic lighthouses in the U.S.
Camden (2.5 hours from Portland) - A picturesque harbor town with great hiking options, charming shops, and fantastic views of Penobscot Bay. Camden Hills State Park offers scenic drives and moderate hikes like the one to the top of Mount Battie, where you get a breathtaking view of the town and the bay.
Rockport & Rockland (3 hours from Portland) - If you're a fan of art and history, these towns offer museums like the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland, which showcases American art, especially works from Maine artists. Rockport is also lovely for a quiet stroll by the water.
Acadia National Park (4 hours from Portland) - Acadia is one of the jewels of the Northeast and a must-visit for nature lovers. From the summit of Cadillac Mountain, the first place to see the sunrise in the U.S., to the beautiful carriage roads, scenic drives, and coastal trails, Acadia offers endless natural beauty. You can also explore the charming town of Bar Harbor, which has shops, restaurants, and beautiful views.
Bangor (5 hours from Portland) - While Bangor is known as the gateway to northern Maine, it’s not as scenic as other places along the coast. It’s a good place to stop for a break, especially if you want to explore some of Maine's history, like Stephen King's home and his literary tours, but I recommend pushing on to Bar Harbor if you can spare the time.

If you're keen on exploring Acadia, I'd suggest planning to spend at least two days there, given all the hiking, driving, and exploring that can be done in the park. You can also visit nearby towns like Southwest Harbor and Northeast Harbor for a quieter, less touristy experience.

In terms of history, Maine is rich with historical sites, particularly related to its maritime heritage. Portland’s historic district is great for walking tours, and Acadia has historical sites related to its early development as a national park. There are also lighthouses, museums, and quaint fishing villages along the coast that will give you a taste of Maine's history.

In summary, I’d recommend going as far north as Acadia National Park (Bar Harbor). Bangor is fine if you want to make a quick stop, but if you want to experience the best of Maine’s nature and history, Bar Harbor and Acadia should be at the top of your list. You’ll have plenty to explore along the way, with ample opportunities for hiking, photography, and enjoying Maine’s beautiful coastlines.

Enjoy your trip and be sure to take in the stunning views, delicious lobster rolls, and peaceful scenery that Maine is known for!