Maine is the northeasternmost state in the contiguous United States, celebrated for its rugged Atlantic coastline studded with lighthouses, lobster shacks perched over sheltered coves, the dramatic granite peaks of Acadia National Park, and vast northern forests roamed by moose. From the vibrant restaurant scene of Portland to the tranquil islands of Penobscot Bay, Maine offers a compelling blend of outdoor adventure and coastal charm.
Top day trips
Handpicked excursions within easy reach.
12 miles offshore; 2 hours drive from Portland, then 70-min ferry
Monhegan Island
Drive to Port Clyde (2h from Portland via US-1 South to Route 131); Monhegan Boat Line ferry departs 10:30, returns 14:45 or 16:15. Book at monheganboat.com or call (207) 372-8848. Round-trip: $42/adult, $22/child 2–11.
265 miles from Boston; 160 miles from Portland
Cadillac Mountain and Acadia National Park
Drive I-95 North to Bangor, then Route 1A to Ellsworth, then Route 3 to Bar Harbor. Acadia park pass $35/vehicle (7-day) at Hulls Cove entrance. Use Island Explorer free bus within the park.
90 miles from Portland
White Mountains (New Hampshire)
Drive Route 302 West from Portland through Fryeburg into North Conway. Mount Washington summit road: $35/car (tuckermanravine.com). North Conway Scenic Railroad: $29/adult round-trip (conwayscenic.com).
35 miles from Portland
Kennebunkport and Southern Maine Coast
Drive I-95 South to Exit 25 (Kennebunk); follow Route 35 to Kennebunkport. Summer trolley (Shoreline Explorer) runs throughout the area for $3/ride.
225 miles from Portland
Baxter State Park (Mount Katahdin viewpoint day)
Drive I-95 North to Millinocket exit, then follow Route 157 and Baxter State Park Road. Day use: $16/vehicle non-resident; reservations required at baxterstateparkauthority.com.
3 miles offshore from Portland
Peaks Island (Casco Bay Ferry Day Trip from Portland)
Walk to Casco Bay Lines terminal at 56 Commercial Street, Portland. Ferry runs every 1–2 hours daily. Bikes can be taken on the ferry ($6.50 extra). Round-trip ferry: $8.50/adult.
85 miles from Portland
Camden and Mid-Coast Maine
Drive I-295 North to Brunswick, then US-1 North through Thomaston and Rockland to Camden. Concord Coach Lines also serves Camden on the Portland–Bangor route: $22/one-way, concordcoachlines.com.
Day trip tips
Make the most of your excursions.
TipStart early — most popular day-trip destinations get crowded by mid-morning.
TipCheck return transport times before you leave — missing the last train or bus can be costly.
TipCarry water, snacks, and layers — weather and food options can be limited at smaller destinations.
