Labor Day Weekend New England Adventure: LAX to Boston, Acadia National Park & Charlestown, RI

Day 1: Arrival in Boston & Begin Road Trip

Morning: Fly from LAX to Boston Logan International Airport. Upon arrival, pick up your rental car and prepare for the scenic drive north.

Afternoon: Start driving towards Acadia National Park, enjoying the changing landscapes of New England on the way. Stop for lunch along the route in quaint towns such as Portland, Maine.

Evening: Arrive near Acadia National Park. Settle into your accommodation in Bar Harbor or nearby, and enjoy a relaxing evening with local seafood at a waterfront restaurant.

Day 2: Exploring Acadia National Park

Morning: Begin early with a hike on the iconic Cadillac Mountain for sunrise views. Follow it with a visit to the Park Loop Road for scenic drives and stops at Sand Beach and Thunder Hole.

Afternoon: Explore more of the park with activities such as biking on the Carriage Roads or kayaking around Jordan Pond. Have lunch at the Jordan Pond House famous for its popovers.

Evening: Enjoy a stroll along the Bar Harbor downtown area, exploring shops and casual dining options with views of the harbor.

Day 3: Acadia or Travel to Charlestown, RI

Morning: If staying an extra day in Acadia, take a morning walk on the Ocean Path Trail to see spectacular coastline views. Alternatively, begin your drive south towards Rhode Island, with a mid-way stop for lunch.

Afternoon: For travelers heading to Rhode Island, continue your scenic drive through New England, arriving in Charlestown, RI by late afternoon. If staying in Acadia, enjoy additional sightseeing or relaxing at your lodging.

Evening: Dine at a local eatery in Charlestown or your Acadia accommodation, enjoying fresh New England fare and quiet coastal ambiance.

Day 4: Relaxing in Charlestown, Rhode Island

Morning: Spend the morning at Ninigret National Wildlife Refuge for birdwatching and peaceful nature walks.

Afternoon: Head to Charlestown Beach for sunbathing, swimming, or beachcombing. Pack a picnic or visit a nearby café for lunch.

Evening: Explore local seafood restaurants or quaint taverns for dinner. Consider a sunset walk along the shore or a visit to the nearby Block Island Ferry terminal if interested in an evening excursion.

Day 5: Exploring Nearby Coastal Rhode Island

Morning: Take a short drive to Wickford Village, a charming historic coastal village, to browse boutiques and art galleries.

Afternoon: Visit Beavertail State Park in Jamestown for hiking, lighthouse views, and spectacular ocean vistas.

Evening: Return to Charlestown for a relaxing dinner and prepare for your travel the following day.

Day 6: Departure from Providence

Morning: Drive from Charlestown to Providence, allowing time for a quick stroll in Waterplace Park or downtown if schedule permits.

Afternoon: Return rental car and catch your flight from Providence T.F. Green Airport (PVD) back to LAX.

Evening: Arrive home with wonderful memories of your New England adventure.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Flight LAX to Boston (round trip) - Approx. 6 hours each way, $400-$600 per person
• Car Rental (7 days) - Full-size SUV for comfort & space, ~$600-$800
• Acadia National Park Entrance Fee - Valid for 7 days, $30 per vehicle
• Acadia Activities (hiking, bike rentals, kayak) - 3-6 hours/day, $50-$100 per day
• Accommodation in Bar Harbor (3 nights) - Mid-range hotel or B&B, ~$150-$250 per night
• Accommodation in Charlestown (3 nights) - Cozy inn or rental, ~$120-$200 per night
• Meals - Breakfast, lunch, dinner for 6 days, approximately $50-$75 per person per day
• Miscellaneous (gas, entrance fees, shopping) - Approx. $100-$150 total

Total Estimated Cost: $2,200 - $3,400 per person

Tips

• If you prefer a more relaxed trip, consider extending your stay in Acadia for an additional day to allow for more hiking and nature immersion, cutting back a day in Charlestown to balance your schedule.
• For a shorter trip, reduce Acadia to 2 days and spend extra time exploring coastal Rhode Island for a slower pace and less driving time.
• Booking flights and accommodations early around Labor Day weekend is highly recommended to secure better rates and availability.
• Pack versatile clothing for varying coastal weather, and bring comfortable footwear for hiking and walking.