Scenic Maine Road Trip for Sisters: From New Jersey to Coastal Charm

Day 1: Coastal City Exploration

Portland, Maine on September 10, 2025

8:00am

Drive from New Jersey to Portland

Begin your trip early from New Jersey heading north on I-95, enjoying scenic stops along the way if you choose. The drive will take roughly 6-7 hours depending on traffic.
USD0, 6h0m

3:00pm

Check into accommodation and relax

Settle into your hotel or B&B in downtown Portland to enjoy easy access to nearby attractions and the waterfront.
USD0, 1h0m

4:00pm

Old Port District Walking Tour

Stroll through this charming historic district known for cobblestone streets, shops, and waterfront views. Great for photos and light shopping.
USD0, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Eventide Oyster Co.

Enjoy fresh seafood in a casual setting, famous for oysters and lobster rolls. Opens at 11:30am and closes at 9:00pm.
USD30-50, 1h30m

8:00am

Breakfast at The Holy Donut

Treat yourselves to unique potato-based donuts, a Portland favorite with unusual flavors. Opens at 7:00am on weekdays.
USD6, 0h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: National Park Adventure

Bar Harbor, Maine on September 11, 2025

7:00am

Drive to Acadia National Park

Leave early for the 3-hour drive to Acadia National Park to maximize your outdoor exploration time.
USD0, 3h0m

10:00am

Hiking and Scenic Drive in Acadia

Explore iconic trails such as the Jordan Pond Path and drive the Park Loop Road for breathtaking views. The park is open sunrise to sunset.
USD35 per vehicle entrance fee, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Jordan Pond House

Enjoy classic popovers and tea overlooking Jordan Pond, open till around 4:30pm.
USD20-35, 1h0m

3:30pm

Bar Harbor Stroll

Explore the quaint shops and waterfront in Bar Harbor town center, perfect for souvenir shopping and relaxing.
USD0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Havana

Dine on Latin-inspired coastal cuisine in downtown Bar Harbor. Reservations recommended. Open till 9:00pm.
USD40-60, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Charming Coastal Towns

Camden and Rockland, Maine on September 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Boynton-McKay Food Co.

Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and artisanal pastries to power your day. Opens at 7:00am.
USD10, 0h45m

9:00am

Drive to Camden

Short scenic 30-minute drive to Camden to explore its iconic harbor and quaint streets.
USD0, 0h30m

9:30am

Camden Hills State Park Hiking

Hike the moderate Mount Battie trail for panoramic views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay. Park open dawn to dusk.
USD4 per vehicle fee, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Hartstone Inn

Upscale dining with a view of the harbor, featuring fresh seafood and local produce. Open midday till 2:30pm.
USD30-50, 1h15m

1:30pm

Drive to Rockland

A short 20-minute drive south to Rockland, known for its arts scene and attractions.
USD0, 0h20m

2:00pm

Visit Farnsworth Art Museum

Explore American art with a focus on Maine artists including Wyeths. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
USD20, 1h30m

4:00pm

Rocket Ice Cream Shop

Treat yourselves with local craft ice cream flavors in Rockland’s downtown.
USD5, 0h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Primo

Farm-to-table cuisine focusing on seasonal dishes; reservation recommended. Open till 9:00pm.
USD40-70, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Shopping and Return

Freeport and drive home on September 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Starbucks or local cafe

Enjoy a quick breakfast before heading out for shopping in Freeport.
USD10, 0h45m

9:00am

Explore Freeport Outlets

Shop at well-known outlet stores including L.L.Bean, which is open 24/7 with some store hours varying, great for souvenirs and outdoor gear.
USD0, 2h0m

11:30am

Lunch at Linda Bean’s Perfect Maine

Casual dining featuring classic Maine lobster rolls and chowder. Open till 3:00pm weekdays.
USD20-30, 1h0m

12:30pm

Drive Back to New Jersey

Begin your journey southward back to New Jersey with plenty of scenic views along the way.
USD0, 6h0m
View Hotel Availability