7-Day Maine Travel Itinerary: Coastlines, National Parks & Lobster Rolls
The Ultimate Maine Family Vacation: Kid-Friendly Adventures, Coastal Beauty & Outdoor Fun
Maine is the perfect destination for a family-friendly road trip, offering a mix of scenic coastlines, interactive outdoor activities, and charming small towns that kids and parents alike will love. This 7-day itinerary is packed with kid-friendly hikes, wildlife spotting, and hands-on experiences, making it an unforgettable vacation for families.
Start in Portland, where families can explore the historic Old Port District, visit lighthouses, and enjoy fresh Maine lobster rolls. Then, head to Kennebunkport, where kids can relax on sandy beaches, take a scenic lobster boat tour, and learn about Maine’s fishing heritage.
The adventure continues in Acadia National Park, where families can watch the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, hike easy coastal trails, and explore tide pools. In Bar Harbor, kids can kayak along the coastline, enjoy a traditional Maine lobster bake, and experience local theater performances.
For families seeking outdoor excitement, Baxter State Park offers wildlife spotting, canoeing, and scenic hikes, while Moosehead Lake provides opportunities to see moose in their natural habitat. With easy scenic drives, engaging attractions, and plenty of opportunities for adventure, this Maine road trip is perfect for families looking to mix nature, relaxation, and exploration into one unforgettable journey.
Pack your bags, hit the road, and experience Maine’s best family-friendly destinations together! 🚗🌲🦞
🌲 7-Day Maine Travel Itinerary – Coastlines, National Parks & Lobster Rolls
Theme: A mix of rugged coastlines, scenic drives, outdoor adventures, and historic towns across Maine.
Best Time to Visit: Summer (June–August) for the best weather or Fall (September–October) for stunning foliage.
📍 Day 1: Arrive in Portland & Explore
✈️ Fly into Portland International Jetport (PWM).
Top Things to Do in Portland:
- 🏛 Explore the Old Port District – Cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and great seafood.
- 🦞 Try a Classic Maine Lobster Roll at Eventide Oyster Co. or The Highroller Lobster Co.
- ⚓ Visit the Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth – One of the most photographed lighthouses in the U.S.!
- 🍺 Enjoy Local Beer at Allagash Brewing Company.
🏨 Overnight in Portland.
📍 Day 2: Kennebunkport & Coastal Charm
🚗 Drive from Portland to Kennebunkport (45 min).
Top Things to Do in Kennebunkport:
- 🏖 Relax at Goose Rocks Beach.
- 🚤 Take a Scenic Lobster Boat Tour – Learn about Maine’s lobster industry.
- 🏡 See the Bush Family Compound at Walker’s Point (Photo Stop).
- 🍽 Dinner at The Clam Shack – A famous seafood spot.
🏨 Overnight in Kennebunkport or return to Portland.
📍 Day 3: Drive to Acadia National Park via Camden
🚗 Drive from Portland to Camden (2 hours).
Top Things to Do in Camden:
- ⛵ Take a Schooner Sail from Camden Harbor.
- 🏔 Hike to the Top of Mount Battie for Incredible Views.
- 🛍 Stroll Through Downtown Camden’s Shops & Cafés.
🚗 Drive from Camden to Bar Harbor (1.5 hours).
🏨 Overnight in Bar Harbor (Gateway to Acadia National Park).
📍 Day 4: Acadia National Park – Sunrise & Scenic Drives
🏞 Explore one of the most beautiful national parks in the U.S.!
Top Things to Do in Acadia:
- 🌄 Watch the Sunrise from Cadillac Mountain – The first place to see the sunrise in the U.S. (seasonal).
- 🚗 Drive the Park Loop Road – 27 miles of stunning coastal and mountain views.
- 🥾 Hike the Jordan Pond Path & Try Popovers at Jordan Pond House.
- 🌊 Visit Thunder Hole – A famous rock formation where waves crash loudly.
🏨 Overnight in Bar Harbor.
📍 Day 5: More of Acadia & Bar Harbor
🏞 Spend more time exploring Acadia & its surrounding coastal charm.
Top Things to Do:
- 🥾 Hike the Beehive Trail – A thrilling hike with iron rungs & epic views!
- 🛶 Go Kayaking Along the Coastline or on Eagle Lake.
- 🦞 Enjoy a Classic Maine Lobster Bake on the Shore.
- 🎭 Catch a Show at the Bar Harbor Inn’s Terrace Grill (Seasonal).
🏨 Overnight in Bar Harbor.
📍 Day 6: Drive to Baxter State Park & Katahdin Region
🚗 Drive from Bar Harbor to Baxter State Park (2.5 hours).
Top Things to Do in Baxter State Park:
- 🥾 Hike a Section of the Appalachian Trail (or Mount Katahdin if Experienced!).
- 🌲 Explore Remote Wilderness & Spot Moose.
- 🚣 Try Canoeing on the Penobscot River.
🏨 Overnight in Millinocket or Greenville.
📍 Day 7: Return to Portland & Depart
🚗 Drive from Baxter State Park to Portland (3 hours).
Optional Stops Along the Way:
- 🏞 Visit Moosehead Lake – The largest lake in Maine with incredible scenery.
- 🏛 Stop in Augusta to See the Maine State House.
- 🍎 Try Fresh Apple Cider at a Local Orchard (Fall Only).
✈️ Fly out of Portland (PWM).
🚗 Total Drive Time:
🛣️ Approx. 15-18 hours of driving across Maine.
This itinerary blends coastal beauty, Acadia’s wilderness, historic small towns, and classic New England charm!