Planning a Maine itinerary for 4 days? Get ready for a whirlwind tour of the Pine Tree State's most iconic coastal attractions! This carefully crafted Maine travel guide will take you on an unforgettable journey from the vibrant streets of Portland to the rugged shores of Acadia National Park. Along the way, you'll savor fresh seafood, explore charming towns, and soak in breathtaking ocean vistas. Let's dive into this action-packed Maine coast vacation that showcases the best of Vacationland in just four days.
Before get into details，here are some other recommendations near in this city:
Your Maine adventure begins in Portland, the state's largest city and a hub of culture, cuisine, and coastal charm. If you're flying in, Portland International Jetport offers convenient connections to major cities. For road trippers, Portland is about a 2-hour drive from Boston.
Start your day by checking into one of Portland's many accommodations:
After settling in, head to the Old Port district, Portland's historic heart. Wander the cobblestone streets lined with 19th-century brick buildings, now home to boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes. Don't miss Exchange Street for its eclectic mix of local businesses.
For lunch, indulge in your first taste of Maine's famous seafood. Head to Portland Lobster Company for a classic lobster roll with harbor views, or try the award-winning clam chowder at Gilbert's Chowder House.
Take a scenic 20-minute ferry ride from the Casco Bay Ferry Terminal to Peaks Island. Once there, rent a bike from Brad's Bike Rental and pedal around the island's 4-mile perimeter. Stop at sandy beaches, art galleries, and the World War II history museum for a glimpse into island life.
Return to Portland for dinner at Eventide Oyster Co., known for its innovative takes on classic New England seafood. After dinner, enjoy craft cocktails and live music at Lincolns, a speakeasy-style bar where everything costs $5.
Rise early for the 3-hour drive to Acadia National Park. Take scenic Route 1 along the coast, stopping at charming towns like Camden and Belfast. In Camden, stretch your legs with a quick hike up Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park for panoramic views of Penobscot Bay.
Arrive at Acadia National Park, a crown jewel of the Maine coast. Start with a hike on the Ocean Path, an easy 2-mile trail offering stunning coastal views. For more of a challenge, tackle the Beehive Trail, a short but steep climb with iron rungs and ladders.
Next, drive the 27-mile Park Loop Road, stopping at iconic spots like Thunder Hole, where waves crash into a narrow inlet creating a thunderous roar. Cool off with a dip at Sand Beach, one of the park's few sandy shores nestled between granite cliffs.
Check into your Bar Harbor accommodation:
For dinner, enjoy fresh seafood at Galyn's, a local favorite with harbor views. End your night with a stroll along the Shore Path, a scenic walkway hugging the coastline.
Start your day with a whale watching tour from Bar Harbor (May-October). Alternatively, visit the Abbe Museum to learn about the area's Native American history and culture.
Embark on a self-guided lighthouse tour down the coast:
Return to Portland for your final night. Enjoy dinner at Fore Street, a farm-to-table restaurant that helped put Portland on the culinary map. After dinner, sample local craft beers on a tour with The Maine Brew Bus.
Start your last day with a walk through the Eastern Promenade, offering beautiful views of Casco Bay. Then, visit the Portland Museum of Art to see works by Winslow Homer and other artists inspired by Maine's landscapes.
Before leaving, pick up souvenirs in the Old Port or at the L.L.Bean Flagship Store in Freeport, open 24/7. For one last lobster fix, grab lunch at The Highroller Lobster Co.
As you depart, reflect on the memories made during your whirlwind 4-day Maine itinerary. From Portland's urban charms to Acadia's natural wonders, you've experienced the essence of Maine's coastal beauty.
This 4-day Maine itinerary offers a perfect blend of urban exploration, natural wonders, and coastal charm. You've savored fresh seafood, hiked scenic trails, and soaked in the state's rich maritime heritage. Whether you're a foodie, outdoor enthusiast, or history buff, Maine's diverse attractions cater to all interests.
Remember, this itinerary is just a starting point. Maine's coast is dotted with hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Consider extending your stay to explore more of what Vacationland has to offer, from the sandy beaches of Ogunquit to the bold coast of Lubec.
Ready to start planning your own Maine adventure? Use Wanderboat.ai to customize this itinerary to your preferences, find the best accommodations, and discover even more local secrets. Your perfect Maine getaway is just a click away!