A New York City to Maine road trip is the quintessential Northeast adventure. Whether you’re chasing the first sunrise in America at Acadia National Park or hunting for the perfect lobster roll along the rugged coast, this 400+ mile journey is packed with historic charm and maritime beauty.
While the drive takes roughly 5–6 hours via I-95, the real magic happens when you get off the highway. Here is your ultimate guide to the best stops on a New York to Maine road trip for 2025.
Route Overview & Driving Times
- Direct Route: I-95 North (Approx. 5–6 hours to Southern Maine).
- Scenic Route: A mix of I-95, I-295, and the iconic U.S. Route 1 (The “Coastal Route”).
- Recommended Time: 4–7 days to truly experience the stops below.
Top Stops from NYC to Maine
1. New Haven, Connecticut
The perfect first pit stop just 90 minutes from Manhattan.
- Why Stop: To settle the “best pizza in the world” debate.
- Don’t Miss: Grab a “white clam pie” at Frank Pepe Pizzeria or Sally’s Apizza. Afterward, take a quick stroll through the gothic architecture of the Yale University campus.
2. Mystic, Connecticut
A historic maritime village that feels like a movie set (and actually was).
- Why Stop: For family-friendly history and coastal vibes.
- Don’t Miss: The Mystic Seaport Museum, which houses the world’s last wooden whaling ship. For lunch, grab a slice at the famous Mystic Pizza.
3. Newport, Rhode Island
Take a slight detour to explore the “Sailing Capital of the World.”
- Why Stop: For Gilded Age glamour and dramatic ocean views.
- Don’t Miss: The Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile path that runs between the crashing Atlantic and the massive “summer cottages” (mansions) of the Vanderbilts.
4. Boston & Salem, Massachusetts
As you cross into Massachusetts, you hit the cultural heart of New England.
- The Hub: Walk the Freedom Trail in Boston or grab a cannoli at Mike’s Pastry in the North End.
- The Witch City: Just 30 minutes north of Boston is Salem. It’s worth a stop for the House of the Seven Gables and the eerie history of the 1692 witch trials.
Entering Maine: The Southern Coast
5. Ogunquit
The name means “Beautiful Place by the Sea” in the Abenaki language, and it lives up to it.
- Highlight: Marginal Way, a mile-long paved cliff walk that offers some of the most accessible and stunning ocean views in the state.
- Beach Day: Ogunquit Beach is one of the few long, sandy stretches on Maine’s otherwise rocky coast.
6. Kennebunkport
Famous as the summer home of the Bush family, this town is the definition of Maine “chic.”
- Highlight: Dock Square for high-end boutiques and the legendary lobster rolls at The Clam Shack.
- Pro Tip: Drive along Ocean Avenue to see the Spouting Rock and Blowing Cave.
7. Portland
Maine’s largest city is a world-class foodie destination.
- The Old Port: Wander the cobblestone streets and check out the Portland Head Light in nearby Cape Elizabeth—it’s the most photographed lighthouse in America.
- Eat: Try Eventide Oyster Co. for their famous brown butter lobster roll.
The Grand Finale: Acadia National Park
If you have the time, continue 3 hours north of Portland to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.
- Cadillac Mountain: Drive (or hike) to the summit to be among the first people in the U.S. to see the sun rise. Note: Vehicle reservations are required in peak season.
- Jordan Pond: Have “popovers” and tea at the Jordan Pond House, a tradition dating back to the 1890s.
Road Trip Tips for 2025
Pack for “Microclimates”: Even in July, the Maine coast can be 15 degrees cooler than NYC. Bring a light windbreaker or fleece for those evening ocean breezes.
Avoid Friday Traffic: Leaving NYC on a Friday afternoon can turn a 5-hour drive into an 8-hour crawl. Aim for a mid-week departure or very early morning.
Book Accommodations Early: Coastal Maine hotels and Acadia campsites often book out 6 months in advance for the summer and fall foliage seasons.
