Planning a Fall Road Trip Through Mid-Coast Maine
- Sept. 30, 2019

Fall the most colorful time of the year, especially in New England. Looking for a weekend road trip? Why not consider a drive along the coast of Maine and a little inland to enjoy the Fall breezes, apple picking and the beauty of the trees putting on their Fall colors in all shades of red, orange, yellow, purple and browns. Truly breath-taking.
Begin your trip on Friday with a trip up to Midcoast Maine to spend the night. We suggest contacting Cottage Connection (800-823-9501) for help in finding the perfect getaway spot to enjoy Fall in Maine.
After checking into your accommodation, grab dinner at any one of the local restaurants, In the Boothbay Region some have music on Friday and Saturday nights. Tuck into bed for a good night's sleep. Fall asleep to the sound of the ocean or the quiet of a country house. Wake refreshed and ready to explore.
Saturday: We suggest you begin your exploration of the Boothbay Region, drive along Route 96 to the ocean and along the side of the Atlantic viewing islands and lighthouses and perhaps some sailing vessels or ships. (Most boats are being hauled out and tucked away for the winter). You may see them on cradles and lifts as you drive around. Enjoy lunch at Kaler's downtown Boothbay Harbor, Fisherman’s, Tugboat or any other of the great spots to eat.
After Lunch: From the Boothbay Region head out towards Jefferson and Damariscotta Lake to enjoy the view of Fall color and perhaps catch sight of a deer or moose. Continue around the lake or a little further North to enjoy the fall foliage. There are several spots to pull over and enjoy a panoramic view of the lake, hills and beautiful color in trees.
Return to your Accommodation for a second night of rest and relaxation. Perhaps enjoy walking around whatever town you are near and peaking into the shops to see some great items and art that are from right here in Maine. Try one of the local Craft Beers at one of the restaurants.
Sunday: Wake up and prepare for your trip back home. Have a hearty breakfast and get yourself out to Route 1 South. After driving through or perhaps stopping in Wiscasset (the Prettiest Little Town in Maine), continue over the Bath Bridge noting Bath Iron Works on your left. Bath is home to Maine Maritime Museum, well worth the stop. From Bath continue on Route 1 through Brunswick home of Bowdoin College and the Harriet Beecher Stowe House among other famous houses/museums. There are many great restaurants here if you are ready for lunch. If not, then continue on to Portland, a great Foodie location, for lunch. You may also wander through the quaint shops in the Old Port section, visit Maine’s Narrow Gauge Train Museum, the Victoria, or the Art Museum.
After leaving Portland, continue South, stopping in Kennebunkport to view the Bush Compound and a beautiful little church nearby. Continue through Kennebunk (perhaps stop and explore the shops). Finish your weekend at York, with a visit to view Nubble Lighthouse and a stop at the Goldenrod to pick up some Maine salt water taffy and fudge. A visit to historic York Center to learn about the early history of Maine.
If time permits a stop in Kittery (more outlets) home to the Portsmouth Navy Yard, Fort McCleary built over 275 years ago,( open for exploring) with views of Portsmouth Harbor and two lighthouses as well as two more forts that guarded the entrance to the harbor - Fort Foster (1872) and Fort Constitution(c1692). These three forts played an important part in our early history and even during World War II.
Hope you enjoyed your weekend trip through Coastal Maine for Fall Foliage and please come visit again when you can stay longer.