Cabins/cottages in Bar Harbor area

Traveling in July to Bar Harbor, Maine with my hubby and 12-year old daughter. Would like to stay at a cozy cabin or inn in the area. Willing to spend apx. $150/night.

Any suggestions?

Thanks!

Cabins/cottages in Bar Harbor area

We always stay at Llangolan inn and cottages. 888-488-3016. They have 8 cottages (efficiencies). Very clean and nice,

Super close to park and downtown (like 10-15 minutes).

they have a website, but i can%26#39;t lay my hands on the address. you could just google the name.

Cabins/cottages in Bar Harbor area

Try www.acadiamagic.com They have lodging listed in various categories, including cabins. My favorite is Bar Harbor Cottages and Suites in the Salisbury Cove area of MDI. They are off the main road, nicely furnished, and fairly near the water.

To MichiganMaineJunkie,

I just made a reservation at one of the Llangolan Cottages. Did you stay at the Inn or in one of the cottages?

The only reason that I%26#39;m asking is that there were a few posts that said the cottages looked dumpy and the place looked deserted. I should point out that those people never stayed there......but their comments made me a little nervous.

I spoke with the owner, Peter, and he seemed very nice and accommodating.

In fact, we got lucky in that someone had just cancelled the exact same week that we are going, so I was able to get a reservation. Otherwise, they were full (which, I guess is a good sign?).

Thanks for your help.

Hi!

We%26#39;ve stayed there 5 different times (about every two years). We%26#39;ve always stayed at the cottages (and a couple of different ones, so we%26#39;ve seen the variety). They look like simple, white, wooden cottages. They are in a semi circle on the lawn of the Inn%26#39;s property. They are always incredibly clean. They are simply furnished, and maybe a bit ';old fashioned'; in the decor (flower print, wood paneling), but we love them and that%26#39;s why we return!

If you go to their website you will see photos and they are exactly what they look like. You will see other cottages of this sort in the area, and they all seem about the same on hte outside. I don%26#39;t know what the others are like inside...

Now, Peter is a new Innkeeper/Owner since we%26#39;ve been. But he is friend%26#39;s with previous owner and runs it same way. I%26#39;ve been in contact over phone and e-mail to check on a few things and he%26#39;s alwyas been very professional and helpful.

Have a great time!

Josiebean,

after reading your post, i started wondering what had been written and by who, so i did a search to see.

the cottages are on the main highway as they described, but i never noticed the noise. it could be because after a day in the outdoors doing a million activities, we were just ready to sleep:)

it%26#39;s always cool at night, so we have windows open. there is heat though if it%26#39;s too cold:)

and like i said, i think they look like every other cottage/cabin in the area. we checked out some on that same road and saw others more by a lake. again, hadn%26#39;t stayed there and don%26#39;t know what they are like inside; but llangolan has always impressed us.

they also mentioned the drive to stuff. to us, 10-15 minutes isn%26#39;t bad, and the cost is less than staying right in town. and personally, i like to be a bit away. sometimes there can be street noise in a downtown.

my husband just reminded me that years ago for our first visit we had same reservations as you from just ';driving by';, but once inside we were sold.

so that%26#39;s the best answer I can give:)

Oh, and let me put it this way....LOL, we are taking my inlaws with us this year, so I must think it%26#39;s o.k%26gt;

Elise

If you%26#39;re willing to pay $150 a night, you can get much closer to town. The Bar Harbor Motel gets consistently good reviews. Quiet, private grounds, very convenient, right on the edge of downtown, a pool, on the route of the free bus. http://barharbormotel.com/rates.htm

I bet there are several B%26amp;Bs in walking distance of the town center for that rate. I don%26#39;t think you need to be staying so far out on the highway if you%26#39;re willing to spend $150 per night.

Elise,

Thank you for putting my mind at ease.

Living just outside Center City, Philadelphia, we are used to some noise at night. In fact, we can hear our expressway (it%26#39;s actually like a low drone at night - somewhat soothing, actually!)

I disregarded the 10-15 minutes drive to get to places, because I don%26#39;t consider that to be too far. And after making the comment about bringing your in-laws, I know that Llangolan Cottages will be just the place for us this summer!

Since you seem to be a wealth of information, can you make some suggestions as far as places to eat (we%26#39;re not fancy or touristy at all; we like to find places ';off the beaten path';). We like to do some activities, but we%26#39;re not the rugged, outdoorsy type (perhaps bike riding, a little hiking, but nothing too extreme). Places of interest, etc.

We are actually making a two-day stop in Portland, Maine on the way to Bar Harbor, so if you%26#39;ve been there and can make suggestions, that would be great too!

I%26#39;m getting excited about this trip, as I hear that once you%26#39;ve been to Maine, you keep coming back, as is evidenced by you and your family. We have usually gone down South for our vacations, but this year my daughter wanted to try somewhere different.

Thank you again for all of the good info. I really appreciate it!

Hi Josiebean,

I%26#39;m glad I could help put your mind at ease.

We%26#39;ve been to Portland and the only thing we%26#39;ve done there is the Portland Head Light - it%26#39;s this totally famous lighthouse (you%26#39;ll see it on a lot of Maine magazines). They have trails and benches all around the area. It%26#39;s a great place to picnic, explore the rocks, the lighthouse, and watch the ocean and boats for hours. It does close promptly at sunset and they aren%26#39;t kidding! A few years ago we got locked inside with about 12 other families, all lined up in our cars at the gate. They came back around and let us out after they had locked the other gates.

In Bar Harbor/Acadia area we have done different things and this year are adding to that list.

We always bike and kayak - Coastal Kayaking Co/Aacadia Bike are sister companies 1800-526-8615. super service! We%26#39;ve done the carriage trails around Jordan Pond (fairly easy), this year we are biking around Eagle Lake. Other trip advisors have recommended it for it%26#39;s ease.

Kayaking: they offer a 2 1/2 hr trip just in harbor, or a 4 hr trip around Frenchman Bay. We did 4 hr and were pretty tired when done. This year we are doing 2 1/2. It comes highly recommended to just get your feet wet (so to speak).

Doing the Carriage Ride to Jordan Pond this year for first time. I%26#39;ll have to let you know in 2 weeks when we are back how that went.

Sailing with Downeast Friendship Sloop for about 3 hrs. my favorite part of trip. 207-266-5210 www.downeastfriendshipsloop.com. He is very reasonable and can work out a price for your amount of time.

Hikes: there is the Shore Path in downtown Bar Harbor. Nice walk after dinner. See many of the old ';cottages/mansions'; from days ago. Pick up a hiking map from local gas stations or Acadia. All routes marked on there with level of difficulty. This year we are doing Wonderland, Seawall - supposed to be visual and pretty easy.

Lumberjack show in local Trenton is a blast!!!!!! Also, check out Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound close by:)

Acadia of course has all it%26#39;s must sees. Stop by Ranger Office and get map and info. You can be real touristy and drive Park Looop Road and see all the hot spots (Cadillac Mt, Thunder Hole, Sand Beach, etc).

We;ve never done it, doing it this year, but there%26#39;s a Sand Bar that goes from Bar Harbor to Bar Island across the bay. Get tidal chart from park and we%26#39;ve been told by Bonnimaeve (local expert) that it%26#39;s safe to walk for the two hours before and two hours after low tide.

We%26#39;ve done the Soutwest Oceanarium, and Gilley Bird carving museum together for a rainy day. There%26#39;s a cool looking movie place in downtown BH called Reel Pizza. Serves pizza/beer and other stuff during movie. Saving for rainy day:)

We%26#39;ve done Diver Ed%26#39;s Hands on Boat Tour - he%26#39;s hysterical, and it%26#39;s less of a motion sickness ride than whale watching -which we%26#39;ve also done. Depends on what your daughter might like better (hands on the bottom dwellers, or seeing whales). If you do the later, get dramamine!

we%26#39;ve gone about 3 hours away to Lubec/Eastport area to see West Quoddy Litehouse and to say we have visited the most Eastern part of US. This area is totally different than BH. Very rural.

From there you can go to Campobello Island (Canadian) and see where FDR (president) vacationed in a lovely summer cottage. We are doing this first time this year. No info yet.

And now for places to eat: We always go to Geddes. Fun, good food, close to water and park. Rosalie Pizza is good. there is a restraunt called Jordans (not to be confused with Jordan Pond House) that the local go to for BEST breakfast! Opens at like 5 a.m.! Cheap and great! Jordan Pond House is expensive (in Acadia), but cool to get the popovers and tea/lemonade and see the scenery. I wouldn%26#39;t buy a meal, just get the snack. Can sit outside on lawn or inside. Make a reservation.

The trip advisory people have steered us towards: Poor Boy%26#39;s Gourmet, Maggies (lobster crepes), Havannahs all in BH. You can google to see menus, etc. All look reallly good.

We always go the the Seafood Ketch in Southwest harbor for our farewell dinner. You can see the Bass Lite in area, and the food/service/atmosphere of the restraunt (overlooks fishing harbor in small village) is great! I believe Havannahs would be the most expensive and dressy of all of these.

That%26#39;s everything in my brain right now. I%26#39;m happy to report more after our trip and let you know how some of the new stuff was. We leave tomorow!!!!

Elise

Wow, Elise -

Thanks for all of the great info. It%26#39;s nice to know that we won%26#39;t be floundering when we get there. We%26#39;re only in Bar Harbor for 4 days, so now we can pick and choose what we want to do.

Have a great trip, and thanks so much!

Lisa

I like the bar harbor cottages. They aren%26#39;t fancy, but they%26#39;re in a great location. The view from your porch is fantastic and they are in a quiet spot.

Kennebunkport----lodging

Where is a reasonable place to stay in Kennebunkport. We would like to be centrally located---within walking distance of all things to do. We will be there the first week of August.

Also, what are suggestions of places to eat/things to do, etc ??

Kennebunkport----lodging

The Colony Hotel is my favorite Kennebunkport lodging. It%26#39;s not centrally located, but I think there is a trolley you can ride to the shopping areas.

Kennebunkport----lodging

Hi BDREECE,

From experience, we suggest staying at The Nonantum Resort, which is situated right on the Kennebunk Tidal River in kennebunkport. Within walking or just short drive to Dock Square. As for lunch and dinner, you can%26#39;t beat Allisson%26#39;s Restaurant right on Dock Square.

FYI, we suggest that if you stay at the Nonantum, get a room in they%26#39;re Portside building which, depending on your room location, can give you a view of the river, which during high tide, is a nice sight.

However you decide, hope you enjoy.

Bren %26amp; Bob

the words ';reasonable'; and ';august'; don%26#39;t really go together in Kennebunkport....but try kingsportinn.com

the lodge at turbot%26#39;s creek, the rhumb line resort, the franciscan guest house, the old fort inn, the greet heron inn, all in kennebunkport. the cape porpoise inn in cape porpoise.also in cape porpoise, the wayfarer restaurant and pier 77, also the ramp. in kennebunk, the kennebunk inn. in kennebunkport, all day breakfast, hurricane%26#39;s, allison%26#39;s for lobster rolls, salt marsh inn, kennebunkport inn. you can go to the beach, trolley museum, antiquing, drive 30 minutes to either portland or portsmouth, the wells preserve, bicycling, arundel barn playhouse or ogonquit playhouse.

The Colony Hotel and reasonable, oh boy, no way. Try the Lodge at Turbat%26#39;s Creek. Not necessarily close but reasonable considering the time. You can always try the Colony for dinner, nice location, plus others.

The Lodge at Turbat%26#39;s Creek is a motel. Is that what you are looking for?

I just came back from a trip around New England and while in Kennebunkport stayed at the Chetwynd House Inn (a B%26amp;B). They have many summer deals and the location is incredible--just a 1/2 block off Dock Square and lots to see within 1/2 a mile or so. I had a great time just walking around. I found it really easy as a place to sight see from--easy drive up to Portland, Freeport, down to Olgonquit. With the large, delicious breakfasts they served, I only ate once more each day! I ate at Allison%26#39;s because it is recommended so often. It was fine, but not amazing. I also ate at the Arundel restaurant which had some very creative salads and good food.

Bar Harbor in August

Could anyone give me some suggestions on what to do for an entire week in Bar Harbor? We will be traveling with a one and a three year child. What%26#39;s the most fun for them to do? We rented a house just three blocks from the Main Street of downtown Bar Harbor.

Bar Harbor in August

You could try these things posted by ';lovingbarharbor'; under the subject header ';toddlers in Bar Harbor';:

My kids really enjoy running around in the Village Green and Agamont Park. Plus there is a nice little playground at the YMCA that is fenced in where you could take a little rest while they play.

Also, the library has a toddler story/song time on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. that is a lot of fun.

Walking the carriage roads is also nice with small children. The road is wide and they can run and explore. We like to park on Rt 233 at Eagle Lake and just walk a little ways and turn around.

Walking across the sandbar at low tide. The kids can pick up shells and watch the seagulls and boats.

There is a wading pool called Glen Mary that is great. I don%26#39;t know how long it will be open. The pool is roughly half the size of a football field and it is only about 2 feet deep at the deepest. It%26#39;s filtered and kept very clean. For me, it%26#39;s so much better than a regular swimming pool since the kids can really spread out because the whole pool is shallow. It%26#39;s not like a regular kiddie pool at a community pool.

Bar Harbor in August

OMG, thank you so very much for the tips! I never even thought about story time at the library. That will be a cute add-on to our trip. Hopefully, the weather will stay nice while we%26#39;re there! Thanks again!!!

Just to let you know that Story Hour does not take place during the summer months at the Bar Harbor Library. But the wading pool is a great place for young children, just be advised there is no life guard on duty.

Any feedback about the Lodge at Camden hills?

Hi guys- I am planning to stay in Camden for 2 nights. This is my second trip and I am a little late booking my accommodations. We will have a car but would like to be able to walk around town. Any feedback on this Lodge? THANKS!!!

Any feedback about the Lodge at Camden hills?

Hope this isn%26#39;t too late - the Lodge at Camden Hills is a nice spot, but out of town a bit. I recommend booking one of their cabins. The jacuzzi tubs in the bedroom is a nice extra!

Any feedback about the Lodge at Camden hills?

I would stay at the Cedar Crest Motel in Camden. (I really liked Room 22). And I would certainly eat at their cozy and very good restaurant. Homemade bread cooked right in the restaurant will tantalize. An exceptional sanctuary in this day and age. No frou frou. Just good. You will relax, and know you are in Camden, Maine, not anyinnormotel, USA.

The Forks/Kennebec River?

We will be staying in this area for 2 days to hunt for moose :) (photo-hunt, I mean :) ). My husband would like to try rafting on the Kennebec. I am not particularly athletic and haven%26#39;t rafted before -- will this be too ';scary';? Any companies you recommend? Any other recommendations of things to do in that area - or places to go eat?

The Forks/Kennebec River?

Not scary. Exhilerating. I went about four years ago so I can%26#39;t remember the company name. We started at the big hydro-electric dam and immediately you are in the froth with no turning back. Rapids are off and on for first five miles, some big, some small.

After a lunch break, it is back on the river for a lazy run of another five miles. Here you can get out of the boat and float along.

The guides are very good. Six-eight people per raft. Tell you hubby to volunteer to ride the bow to get the fulleffect.

One word of warning, watch out for the logging trucks on the road up to the Forks. The are loaded and go pretty fast.

The Forks/Kennebec River?

The Kennebec River is the ';family'; rafting of Maine. Compared to the Penobscot and Dead Rivers it is considerably less dangerous and ';scary';. That is not to say that it will be dull and that no one would ever get scared, it is still a thrill. As the other poster mention you start right out in some of the biggest rapids and they continue for a ways. After the first half is done then it is a lazy relaxing ride through mostly ';riffles'; . I have rafted both the Kennebec and Penobscot twice, never did I see anyone get thrown from a raft or a raft overturn on the Kennebec (not saying it doesn%26#39;t happen) but each time on the Penobscot I saw several people thrown into the river and a couple rafts overturn. The Penobscot is much more dangerous (or thrilling) depending on how you look at it whereas the Kennebec is more of an experience that most everyone can enjoy.

The area as a whole is very rural and there isn%26#39;t a lot to do outside of some hiking or just enjoying nature. You could take a short hike to Moxie Falls, Maine highest waterfall, it is quite near to The Forks.

A Grocery Store That's a Restaurant?

After arriving in Camden, Maine for our month%26#39;s vacation, my wife and I sought out a local place for groceries and take out food. French %26amp;Brawn met all of our expectations. With my dog, I am up early each day and out for coffee and a newspaper, and French %26amp; Brawn is where we head. The coffee (';New England Coffee';) is terrific with about four choices, and there are many local and national newspapers. The muffins are freshly made with your choice of about six. (This is really a grocery store with a huge

offering of fresh foods.) At lunch, there are two soups, and fortunately, they always offer the clam chowder (around $5 for a large bowl) with lots of clams. And all of this food is served up by knowledgeable people that are nothing less than cheerful.

Whether in Camden for a month or just driving up Highway 1, visit French %26amp; Brawn for fresh, fairly-priced food. (and very nice people)

A Grocery Store That's a Restaurant?

True. And also Matincus Market. Lovely food and desserts, right next to a stream. Great prices, too!

A Grocery Store That's a Restaurant?

Hi Scottish!

Maine is like that, isn%26#39;t it!

At Northeast Harbor, on Mount Desert Island, we found a bakery with rather appealing cinnamon rolls. Wishing to sit down and eat them, we heard that there were some tables out back, so we took a look. There aren%26#39;t just tables, but a substantial full-service restaurant!

At any other place on the globe, such an establishment would display an illuminated sign boasting ';Restaurant.'; Maine, however, seems delightfully unassuming about things like that.

So, Scottish, I%26#39;ll see your ';Grocery Store'; and raise you the ';Economy Shoe Shop.'; If you come to Halifax, Nova Scotia (which is NEW Scotland, in Latin, as you know) and go restaurant hopping, you%26#39;ll come across the sign for the Economy Shoe Shop. It%26#39;s not a shoe shop at all, of course, but an eclectic restaurant popular with the arts community and avant-garde types, and it%26#39;s been there for quite a few years now.

Its story is that the location once was, literally, a shoe store several decades ago until it went out of business and got forgotten. Then one day, restaurant promoters who thought that the space might be a good location to open an eatery inspected the premises and found the overhead sign for the old Economy Shoe Store. A proverbial light bulb flashed on in the promoter%26#39;s head, and the rest like they say is history. They erected that sign once more and named their new restaurant the ';Economy Shoe Store,'; and the eclectic character of the old sign won out over what might otherwise be the unfavorable connotations of the name.

Such are the wonders of business!

David

hand cream

Camping in Bar Harbor - what if it rains

My son wants the tent experience and we decided to go camping in Bar Harbor. We picked an oceanfront site on Mt Dessert Narrows. Now I am having second thoughts.

What if it rains too much... how is the weather usually in early July? Is it difficult to find reasonable accommodations if it starts to rain and we change our mind with the tenting?

Camping in Bar Harbor - what if it rains

For the most authoritative summary of earlyJuly weather in the Bar Harbor area, go to:

http://tinyurl.com/2vclnv

On the right side is a box where you can enter the range of dates that you are interested in.

Rain that time of year generally is less a problem than is fog. Early July is the beginning of the busiest part of our season. Last-minute alternative accommodations might be be available, but it%26#39;s a risky proposition.

Camping in Bar Harbor - what if it rains

It doesn%26#39;t rain that much in early July. However, it is not unheard of to have soggy campers show up at the Bed and Breakfasts in Bar Harbor begging for a room and a hot shower. It might indeed be difficult to find reasonable accommodations at the last minute, especially if it%26#39;s July 4th.

Be brave! None of you will melt in the rain!! And it won%26#39;t rain all day or all night. Hopefully.

We%26#39;ve camped in Bar Harbor in mid-July for the past 12 years, and while we%26#39;ve had some rainy days it has never been much of a problem to us. Although we have an RV and don%26#39;t have to deal with a soggy tent, the campground and surrounding area does get temporarily muddy and unpleasant but always dries out the next day. Bring a good raincoat and enjoy being outside. There are still walks that you can do in the park and the area takes on a whole new aspect when the forrests are foggy and damp. It seems so much greener. It%26#39;s all part of the Maine experience!

Thanks for all the advise folks. I will try to be brave and keep the two 12 yrs olds we are bringing along bravey and busy. As this is my first camping experience in over 20 yrs, when I was about 20, my endurance is not the same.

I can%26#39;t wait to get out there, though. We are trying to narrow donw what we want to do. Whale Watching, Picture taking, National park, and swim are for now our top priorities. Can we see the fireworks from Mt Dessert Narrows, we have an oceanfront site. What%26#39;s a good place to see the fireworks without getting too far from the campsite?

Truly appreciate everyone%26#39;s answers. ana

I%26#39;ve said it before, I%26#39;ll say it again. Book a campground that has both cabins and tent sites. I think the only one that books cabins for the night (vs. the week) is Bass harbor Campground.

That same thing happend the last time we went out. It pised rain the entire day and we returned to a soggy... everything. She showed us the dryers and gave us a cabin for the night.

I%26#39;m not sure if you can see the fireworks from your campground or not. It%26#39;s possible. They are sort of in that direction. That would be a good question for the owner of the campground.

Hi anainchester,

Just my 2 cents. Bring 2 large poly tarps and have one setup over the table area and another protecting the tent (just in case the tent leaks). Set the tarps so that they would be sloping down both ways from the center line like a house roof so the water would not accumulate inside. Try to pick the spot for your tent so it would not be on the water way in case of heavy rains.

We were camping in Acadia with 2 kids (6 and 8 years old) early in May this year and first 2-3 days it was raining alot but our new tent made it without any leaks so it didn%26#39;t bother us much.

Hope you have a wonderful trip.

Dmitriy

I just wanted to thank everyone. It not only rained... it poured. Luckily we had a tarp with us and only got minimal rain along the edges. After the first night we picked up another one. It is a very humbling experience to sleep under all that pouring rain and thunder. Anyway... we loved the experience and would do it again. As first time campers, the distance between our site and our neighbors was satisfactory - anything further away might have spooked us. The place was spotless the whole time we were there and the staff was extremely friendly and helpful.

As for Acadia and Bar Harbor (second main reason of our visit), the whale trip was cancelled except for the last day we were there. However, by the time we got there, there were not enough tickets. We went to Bar Island instead and hiked up.

The day we did the park, no matter how many times I told these guys to read about the place, they didn%26#39;t, so when we were going, they were, what%26#39;s gonna be there? what are we gonna do...just look at trees?

Once we started off, they got excited. We went to the Abbe museum, saw 2 huge Owls not far from there, went to the Wild Gardens were a serious Picture Taking Contest started. Once we hit the beach, I couldn%26#39;t get them back in the car. Only when I told them the next stop was Thunder Hole (imagine...Thunder Hole - how bad can it be), they headed for the car.

As beautiful as everystop of the Park Loop is, nothing prepares you for the feeling on Cadillac Mountain.

Will definitely do it again. However, we won%26#39;t book so far in advance and will check the weather. If it was wonderful and majestic in Rain and Fog, I can%26#39;t even imagine in the Sun.

I discourage private emails

Warning: This is going to be a bit of a rant....

Lately I%26#39;ve gotten several private messages asking for travel advice. I don%26#39;t like that Tripadvisor has enabled private messaging as I think all travel information should be shared publicly where others can benefit from the advice given, where others can chime in with their 2¢ and where the entire discussion can become part of the archives so that future forum participants can seach for the information.

I also think that private messages are intrusive. If you have a question, post it in the forum where whoever wants to take a stab at it can post. Seeking out one particular party thru a private message and putting that party on the spot to answer your question is a bit demanding. If you post publicly, that party will respond if he/she has the time and the inclination to get involved. Otherwise, he/she is not interested in your topic, has no expertise in it, or is simply too busy. Not trying to sound snobby, but in this forum participation is totally voluntary. This isn%26#39;t the Maine Tourism Bureau where folks are compensated to answer questions.

For that reason, I don%26#39;t give private advice.

While there might be some rare situations when a private message might be useful (participants trying to arrange social contact with each other), in most cases all discussions should be held in the open on the actual forum.

I discourage private emails

Michele--

There is a ';block'; function that will prevent any private messages getting through to you.

I have received a few and sent a few. Most of these have involved information or opinions that really don%26#39;t need to be shared with the forum at large.

Overall, I think that it is a good feature; like all such things, though, it can be misused (and abused).

I discourage private emails

I totally agree with you, Michelle. I turned off the ability to send me a private message as soon as trip advisor offered that option.

I don%26#39;t want to block everyone as I have gotten a couple of legitimate PMs from other forum regulars discussing discussing things that are appropriate for asking in a private manner. You know who you are. :)

But, what I don%26#39;t like are questions that should be asked out in the open (where should we stay, eat, etc. when we visit town X) Anyone who sends me that question is going to get blocked for any future PMs.

I actually didn%26#39;t get up on the wrong side of the bed this morning. This is a long-standing peeve of mine from online forums.

I am sorry. I wasn%26#39;t trying to get you upset. You just seemed to be knowledgable about certain areas so I thought so it seemed to be the right thing to do. Didn%26#39;t mean to upset you. I have posted a number of topics, but it seems that you don%26#39;t get a response. But thank you for making me aware of how you feel about this.

Hi Michele,

I agree 100% with your post. I%26#39;ve also received quite a few PM%26#39;s and can%26#39;t for the life of me figure out why they didn%26#39;t post their questions publically and on this forum.

90% of the PM%26#39;s I receive are for hotel/restaurant recommendations and that%26#39;s what this site is all about i.e. sharing local knowledge with lots of people in which everyone who reads can benefit, not just one person in a PM. Consequently, I rarely responded to a PM, maybe once or twice.

I also agree with your last statement re: participants/regulars/experts trying to arrange social contact. But even that I%26#39;d be very careful about.

Meanwhile, to the general traveling public: keep the questions/inquiries coming! I love sharing my local knowledge and I%26#39;m sure the other %26#39;experts%26#39; do also or else we wouldn%26#39;t be here :).

cozyharbor

If someone doesn%26#39;t respond to your post, it might be that no one actually has any knowledge on that particular issue. There really are only a handful of regulars who post responses here, and are knowledge does not cover the entire state.

One of the points that TripAdvisor made when I signed on as a ';local expert'; was that I shouldn%26#39;t feel obligated to answer every post. So I don%26#39;t. Sometimes, it is because one or more other people already have covered the issue at least as well (or in many cases, better) as I could have done. Sometimes, I simply don%26#39;t have any pertinent information to contribute.

So you know how to disable Private Mails but you choose not to because you want to get private mails that you deem worthy but not those you don%26#39;t. Hmm, why not hit the little delete button?

These private mails are FAR FEWER than email spam most everyone gets every day.

Why not just delete the email instead of making a federal case out of it?

Most people I have met on these boards are very helpful and enjoy sharing information about their area and other places they have visited. Those who don%26#39;t want to, simply don%26#39;t respond.

You must be getting way more privates than anyone I have known to react in this way.

The majority of PMs should indeed be just posted on the forum, and I understand the request Michele has put out there. Obviously, it must be happening often enough that it%26#39;s begun to feel ';intrusive';, so I also understand the initial tone (';rant';, in your own words!) The few that I%26#39;ve gotten, I%26#39;ve briefly responded and gently redirected back to searching/asking in the forum.

I%26#39;d also like to concur with CW, that sometimes I just don%26#39;t have anything to contribute or add, and that%26#39;s why there might not be a response. That, and living on an island in the summer means I%26#39;m not spending a lot of time sitting at a computer!

Re: ScottE--';So you know how to disable Private Mails but you choose not to because you want to get private mails that you deem worthy but not those you don%26#39;t. Hmm, why not hit the little delete button? ';

I rather think that the issue is not whether MicheleS knows about delete buttons or anything else, but rather that those seeking general information (or even specific information about a given venue) ought to stay with the public forums. In this regard, I stand with her.

Moreover, I would observe that there seems to be a very large number of people who do no research whatsoever before asking the forum for help---do they presume that they are are first to consider an area?

Day trip to Portland

We are leaving for a vacation to the east coast this Monday. We will be staying in Ny and Boston. We thought we might take a day trip to Portland since we will have a rental car in Boston. Do you think this is doable? And also what is there for kids in Portland...any beaches in whick to swim/sun bathe? Also, asking for hubby...where is the best lobster meal? Thanks!

Victoria68 in California

Day trip to Portland

Not sure how old your kids are but there is a ';Children%26#39;s Museum'; in downtown Portland and is within walking distance of the popular ';Old Port'; district which is right on Portland Harbor. If you are more interested in a day at the beach you would be wiser to pick from the beaches that are south of Portland and a bit closer to Boston. York Beach is nice - Wells is good too but parking there is not great. You would have to park somewhere up on Rt. 1 and take the free trolley. One of my very favorite beaches is Ogunquit. I live in Bangor ME. The best lobster meal could be just about anywhere. I prefer it at a picnic table outdoors as it can be messy. Hope you get to Maine and enjoy it. Why not try to come up and stay overnight.. Much less rushed that way.

The Azure is a good place to eat.

When you walk in the door the first thing you’ll notice is the faint smell of garlic that lingers in the air. This is a small place, but it has a way open big feel to the space. On the night I arrived the whole place was full except for one small table right in front of the fish aquarium, which by the way was a treat in it’s self. The tables are little square wood with matching wooden chairs and they didn’t go with the kitschy red checked table clothes. The host was wonderful and he floated around the room talking to every table and making you feel not so much like you were at a restaurant as at a private party, and you were his guest. After begin left a few minutes to peruse the menu, and it gives you many choice, the waitress was at my table. It was a little loud in there, with everyone talking, but you still didn’t feel crowded. I chose a four cheese lasagna, which come with bread and a house salad. I can’t begin to describe for you just how wonderful the marinara sauce was. I could have eaten it all by itself, it was like heaven. To top off the meal I had their tiramisu, which shouldn’t be missed.

They have an amazing amount of wine to select from. They are open for lunch as well as dinner.

The Azure is a good place to eat.

I am a good cook, and it drives me nut when I feel ';I could have done better at home';

Not at the Azure—everything was perfect, even the bread, warm, fresh and crusty.

And a very good price, specially for the area.

New Harbor accomodation?

Any recommendations on where to stay/eat in New Harbor? And how long does it take to drive there from portland?

New Harbor accomodation?

buttondeb...Hi...I am from Maryland and have stayed in new harbor for a week with family of 6 for past five years.....so nice, we dare not change our vacation plans ever....IF you are still there I would be glad to communicate with you on details of new harbor. you can email me at kch@toad.net.com. Would be happy to give you accurate unbias opinion of this area and suggestions for maximizing your visit.....Kurt

New Harbor accomodation?

Yes thanks, where to eat in New Harbor, which trails you like, and what else to do there?

Hi,

My husband and I recently came back from a beautiful trip to Maine. On Fourth of July we went to Pemaquid Point State Park (beautiful place to lounge and linger) and then to New Harbor for a Puffin Watch cruise.

We didn%26#39;t stay in this area of Maine, but I can say there were several spots on Pemaquid Point that looked nice...and that is very close to New Harbor.

A word of advice on the Puffin Watch cruise in case you are interested in taking one since they leave from New Harbor.... the seas were a bit rough and my husband and I got very very seasick. I recommend taking Bonine or other motion sickness medication if you are in doubt.

Bar Harbor and Portland

We%26#39;ve never been to Maine. We are planning to be in Maine 5 nights. Any recommendations???

At this point we are staying in Potland 2 nights then off to Bar harbor for 2 nights and return to portland 1 night and then to Foxwoods casino in Ct. for 3 nights. We want to see whales, ant favorite company? I%26#39;d also like to possibly find boat rentals. What would be a must while in Portland and bar harbor. I love to take pictures!!!

Thanks for your help

Bar Harbor and Portland

It all depends on what you like to do. In Portland the Casco Bay Ferries have very cool trips. Whale Watching is just ok in Maine; better off the coast of MA but they do have some that go out of Bar Harbor. If you love to take pictures I would stop at Portland Head Light as well as Two Lights State Park. Both are just south of Portland and are stunning. I personally think that Two Lights has some of the most beautiful coastline in all of Maine. We love just walking around Portland as it%26#39;s really interesting and has some cool shopping and good restaurants. We like the rabbit stew at Bull Feeney%26#39;s! Portland also has a very good art gallery which is worth a visit if you like that stuff. On the way to Bar Harbor...Wolf Neck State Park in Freeport is really nice. Gives you lovely views of the water and it doesn%26#39;t get too crowded. Hiking in Acadia is wonderful. If you like taking pictures you%26#39;ll find that just about any place on the island is great. We just came back after spending a week in Bar Harbor and filled an entire memory card with 590 pictures! Top of Cadillac Mountain; Park Loop Road; Wonderland and Ship Harbor trails; Hunter Beach; Otter Cliffs; Monument Cover; Long Pond (via Fire Road off 102); Gorham Mountain (even if you only go 1/2 way up) are all great places to visit.

hand cream

Maine Accomodations

accomodations

sharvey52472

Edmond Oklahoma

Joined: Jul 2007

Forum posts: 1

(8056341)

More about sharvey52472...

Posted on: 7:02 pm, today Save

Greetings from the Deep South!

My wife and I are planning on visiting Maine in early October this year. I have been looking online and there are some interesting places,but ther seems like a lot to do and not a lot of time to do it in.

We are planning on staying 2 to 3 days only then drifting south to Boston then possibly Conneticut then Vermont.

The closest I have ever been to Maine is Memphis Tennesse.

So, needless to say I am a bit overwhelmed.

Acadia and the Bar Harbor seems like the best choice at the moment,mainly because it isn%26#39;t too far from the major Interstate,and the scenery is like nothing here in Oklahoma.

When we travel we generally dont let $$ affect our decisions too much,but like most we do have a limit (on the high side though).

My wife suddenly is into Biking, Hiking, different cuisine,and without question the scenery and accomodations.

We are definately odd balls when it comes to traveling. We do not have any children and we are both early 30%26#39;s. So most of our traveling is done after Summer vacation.This is probably our last year without kidos so definately we are going to try to make this the ';getaway of a lifetime';.

Maine just seemed like a great place to start because from Oklahoma,you just cant get any further away without a passport

Maine Accomodations

I never really think about Oklahoma as being in the south, sort of think of it as the midwest.

Anyway, Bar Harbor and Acadia are nice and you are right that it%26#39;s not like Oklahoma. There are plenty of accomodation choices. Portland is a nice city, a lot of good restaurants and bars. The Art Museum is good.

Maine Accomodations

If you want biking and hiking and scenery then you can%26#39;t beat Acadia National Park. It is definately worth a visit; you%26#39;ll get there and not want to leave. October is a wonderful time to visit; it%26#39;s beautiful, you don%26#39;t have the crowds and the hotel rates become sane. If you want a getaway of a lifetime I would look into the Bar Harbor Inn right in downtown Bar Harbor. Beautiful place right on the harbor. Rooms are amazing; we%26#39;ve stayed in the main building with views of the harbor, king bed, jaccuzzi tub, fireplace...loved it!

York Inn is the former Econolodge

I noticed today while looking for a place to stay on an upcoming trip to York that reviews for the Econolodge are no longer listed on Trip Advisor in Maine. Now the property at this address is listed as the York Inn.

When this property was operated under the name Econolodge, it got consistently negative reviews. In fact, most were along the lines of ';this is the worst place I%26#39;ve ever stayed; you should avoid it all costs!';

While I don%26#39;t think someone would change a property%26#39;s name just to get a fresh start, I think it%26#39;s important to warn folks that this property has a past. Until we have someone report back that SUBSTANTIAL changes have been made, I%26#39;d steer clear of this establishment.

I stayed at this property less than a year ago, when it was named the Econo Lodge, and after having one of my worst lodging experiences ever, I filed a negative review on Trip Advisor. I gave it only one star out of five.

For one thing, the location has not changed. While nothing is that far from anything thing else in York this particular property is located in an area that is light industrial. So, not an attractive setting, not near the water and no where that you%26#39;d sit outside and enjoy the surroundings. It%26#39;s not in walking distance of the restaurants, shopping or the other things you%26#39;d do on vacation in York.

When I stayed there the grounds where neglected with no landscaping, grass was not cut, the rooms reaked of cleaning solvents, the pool (indoors) was closed, the furnishings minimal and cheap, and the property not welcoming. It gave me an icky, unsafe feel.

Since my review (and all the other prior TripAdvisor reviews on this property under another name) where stripped because of the name change, I felt compelled to speak up and warn folks that they might proceed with caution in regard to this property.

Hopefully I can at least drive by on my trip to York and report back to the forum.

York Inn is the former Econolodge

Just returned from my trip to York. Did not stay at the York Inn, but drove by it and happened to speak with someone who was staying there for the weekend.

The good news is that a tremendous construction project is currently underway. It appears that lots of money is being spent to improve the place.

The bad news is that a tremendous construction project is currently underway and apparently when you call to book a room, the management doesn%26#39;t warn you that you%26#39;ll have to put up with the inconvenience of the ongoing work.

The property is quite a mess with huge construction dumpsters, new buidling materials piled up, and stripped carpets, air conditioners, mattresses, etc.littering the grounds while awaiting disposal. One could only hope the management is greatly discounting the prices during the construction.

York Inn is the former Econolodge

I too just recently stayed at the York Inn. You are right, it is still under construction and they neglect to tell you this when calling and making reservations. The room did smell of cleaning solvent that was not very pleasant, as matter of fact the carpet was still damp.

Not to mention after driving 125 miles to get there, they cant find my reservation even when i give them a reservation number. Luckily they had plenty of rooms and I got right in.

As far as the pricing goes, its a little high. Like Michele said up top, its not in walking distance to anything and is in the middle of Route 1 commercial district. Driving to the beach is about 10 minutes and you find cheaper rates on the way which would have been more convienent to be in. For a large hotel with high rates, it would have been nice if they spent a few hundred dollars and invested in some laundry machines to do your laundry. They recommend driving a few miles down the street and go to a laundry mat. No Thanks.

I would give this place 1 out of 5 stars.

i stayed at this hotel on july 21st and 22nd. The renovations were all done. I loved the newly renovated hotel. I saw that they were some landscaping work like planting new plants and shrubs but it did not bother me. They had new mattresses, furniture, carpet , paint and everything else has been updated. It seems that the hotel is under new ownership. The front desk girl told me that the hotel was renovated and the amenities are being upgraded since the hotel is becoming a Best Western. I stayed there last year and i have noticed a big difference.My kids loved the pool. They also had a business center set up. It was very useful because i did not take my laptop. I would definately recommed this place now.

Edenbrook Motel Questions

Anybody ever stay here and how is it and how is its location...Thanks....

Edenbrook Motel Questions

The Edenbrook is a good, basic, older motel. It%26#39;s clean and fine. It%26#39;s located just outside of the village of Bar Harbor, on route 3. It%26#39;s about a four block walk to the outskirts of town -- maybe ten blocks to the middle of town. The Acadia free shuttle buses go right past it.

Edenbrook Motel Questions

It%26#39;s a very basic affordable alternative. Nothing fancy, but it is well-located on the fringe of the village center. Not in walking distance of downtown unless you are an avid walker, but still very close in to Bar Harbor. (I for one would prefer to stay on the fringes of downtown rather than fight the traffic in the village center.) Remember, alot of what there is to see and do on the island is not in downtown Bar Harbor; if you are on the fringe of downtown, it%26#39;s easy to zip to the other side of the island or onto the Park Loop Road.

The decor is 1950-s, but it%26#39;s always clean. Also quiet, and you park right outside your room.

A good choice if price is more important than amenities.

Thanks for the Help on The Edenbrook Motel....I just wanted a clean place to stay and the price of 50 dollars a night sounded good for Sept 6-11....Will The Arcadia Shuttle stop at the Motel? Or do we have to go to a designated stop? Thanks again

You don%26#39;t have to go to a designated stop. As long as you are on any one of the shuttle routes, it should stop ... providing you are not standing in a potentially dangerous intersection or something. Just wave %26#39;em down.

It%26#39;s not far from in town... maybe a quarter to a half mile from village green? It%26#39;s convienent but not in a quietplace. Just something to be aware of. It is hard to find affordable accomodations but not impossible. If you want to stay on the other side of the island it%26#39;s quieter and there are other lodging options available sometimes less pricey.

We just stayed at the Edenbrook on our way in and out of Nova Scotia. Not many amenities but clean and very comfortable. The shuttle can be waved down right at the end of the driveway as it makes its way to the Wonderland Hotel. We highly recommend the motel if reasonable price is important.

Does anybody know how Edenbrook Motel, Belle Isle Motel, and Acadia Pines compare? They are the most reasonable ones I see. Also, someone mentioned less expensive options on the other side of the island, but I couldn%26#39;t find any. Where do I find those? Martha

I have stayed at the Belle Isle many times. It%26#39;s very reasonably priced. It%26#39;s about 4-5 miles out of town, very clean. The rooms are quite small, but if you are looking for a clean, very affordable place on the island to sleep and shower while you play in the park all day and into the night, I would recommend it. Just don%26#39;t expect any thrills or fancy amenities (although there is an outdoor pool !).

Last September we stayed at the Seawall Motel near Southwest Harbor. It sits directly across the road from the ocean and there is a beaver pond adjacent to the property. The rooms were clean, smoke free and appeared to have just been redone. In addition there is a coin operated laundry and nice continental breakfast provided. We found the owners to be very pleasant and willing to help with restaurant suggestions, sight seeing plans and they have a great knowledge of island. We found it easy to get to Bar Harbor and the park without having to deal with the intown noise and traffic.

If you are more interested in the natural side of the island than the town, I would suggest checking Seawall out. The rates posted on their website are $75 for September, but you may be able to get a discount price with AAA or other memberships. (Just remember you will be at least a 10 drive from restaurants. We thought it was worth the drive!)

Thanks! I had not seen Seawall motel. I have sent them an email asking about availability. Has anyone stayed at Sea Breeze or Eden brook or Bar Harbor motel?

Maine in mid June

my husband and I are going to Maine in mid June and wondered about when exactly the ';season'; starts....I thought a little later. No real plans yet just trying to get some ideas for a fun, leisurely road trip along the coast with lots of lobster!!

Maine in mid June

We are going to Maine mid-late June and from our research the prices of B%26amp;Bs/Inns don%26#39;t go up to peak prices until the last week of June/ first week of July. We were able to secure some great deals by going right on the edge of peak season. From the research I%26#39;ve done on the weather it will probably be 60s-70s with some possible rainy days. Since this is our first trip I don%26#39;t have much advice to offer except to book soon, we booked back in January and some of the rooms we wanted were already reserved.

Maine in mid June

I see a number of hotels are ending their early-season specials on June 21st, others the weekend before that.

I usually head to Maine in August or late July...it%26#39;s high season, but we prefer to go then because the water is a lot warmer. We know some folks who have gone to Maine in June and they say that the water is freezing.

Check out Mike%26#39;s Clam Shack (on route 1)...great lobster and reasonable prices.

Have fun!

Most lodging and restaurants in Maine are open from May 1st to October 31st. However, the tourist season doesn%26#39;t get real busy until July 4th. Then it stays fairly busy until after the weekend in October when peak foliage, Canadian Thanksgiving, and Patriot%26#39;s Day all coincide. Often there is a bit of a slump the first two weeks in September after the children return to school and before fall foliage gets pretty.

Did you find any good deals on lobster?

We%26#39;ve been tto midcoast a number of times, and will be near Harpswell ib August for a week, and are wondering how good the prices will be for lobster -- either fresh caught for US to cook or where we can go to get them already cooked.

Any questions?

I moved to Millinocket two years ago, to start a gallery and work as an astist, from southern Maine and am a native Mainer that lived in DC for 8 years, then southern Maine for 19 before moving up here to get out of the rat race. This is a little bit of paradise but is uncharted territory to a lot who come here. I have been reading the postings and wonder if I might answer some questions for anyone? I%26#39;ll check in from time to time and try to steer you to the right information, if I can. We up here definitely want you to have a great experience and come back often.

Any questions?

Just a suggestion---

From time to time, monitor the ';Maine forums'; set. Many of the questions regarding Millinocket and environs arise in the other Maine forums. For example, on the Bar Harbor forum, we fairly regularly get inquiries about travelling from here to Millinocket or Baxter SP to see moose.

Any questions?

Thank you cwvoigt. I will keep an eye out.

OK, you offered, and I%26#39;m taking you up on it. We%26#39;ve often traveled to Pittsburgh, NH for ';moose'; photo trips. It%26#39;s about a 7 hr. trip, and we%26#39;ve always seen moose, but are ready for a change of scenery. Because it%26#39;s about 11 hours driving, I want to be sure we%26#39;re as prepared as possible. Would you suggest May, June, July, or Oct? We%26#39;d like to avoid the busy season, but realize that the foIks come then for a reason. realize that the moose are ';Scruffy looking in May, and the bulls don%26#39;t have full racks yet, but the moose seem to be out more in spring. Is that true for Maine also? We%26#39;ve found a very small, simple cabin in Pittsburgh that%26#39;s got a warm shower, for $55/night. Is there anything even close in price near Baxter? All we need is a warm bed and shower. Can you recommend any inexpensive diners, or family style restaurants. Can you Kayak on the Sandy Stream Pond and Stump Pond, and if so, how far is the carry? In NH, the only times to really see the moose are dusk %26amp; dawn, but it seems from reading posts here that the moose are seen in the ponds during the day. Is it practical to pack a lunch and spend the day at the ponds? I%26#39;m trying to justify the extra time, distance and money to visit Maine insterad of NH, and any tips would be appreciated.

Yes you can see Moose in the spring, June I find is quite a good month, there is also the great possibility to see calves also. There are alot of options for cabin rentals, motels %26amp; camping, alot of this can be found on the Katahdin Area Chamber website www.katahdinmaine.com. If you love theout of doors, kayaking, hiking.... this region cannot be beat. Hope to see you in the woods this summer.

Yes you can see Moose in the spring, June I find is quite a good month, there is also the great possibility to see calves also. There are alot of options for cabin rentals, motels %26amp; camping, alot of this can be found on the Katahdin Area Chamber website www.katahdinmaine.com. If you love theout of doors, kayaking, hiking.... this region cannot be beat. Hope to see you in the woods this summer.

Thanks for the reply - I look forward to meeting you in the woods this Spring - I%26#39;ll be the one with the grin on my face :-)

any good xcountry trails? ty

Sue6389, I have been remiss in checking this link but you got some good advice! The only difference between June and early October, which is the other time to avoid crowds, is that the bugs are worse in June and the foliage, which can be stunning, is out in early October. Unfortunately, moose hunting starts in September and you don%26#39;t want to be out there without adequate safety orange clothing. The moose seem to be out all summer, too, because they go into the ponds and lakes to stay cool. We have revamped our chamber of commerce website the past couple of months, www.katahdinmaine.com, which the other writer gave you. You can find contacts for moosespotting on there, too. For places to stay, a little known and great place is the Penobscot Outdoor Center on Pocwockamus Pond. It is located one mile from Baxter State Park%26#39;s southern entrance and has men%26#39;s and women%26#39;s bath facilities, with showers, and a variety of camping options, a restaurant, lounge, sauna, hot tub and a GREAT view of the mountain. Check it out www.northernoutdoors.com or call (800)765-7238 (may be a seasonal number) They run a rafting company, too, and have horseshoes, pool, volleyball, and sometimes Karioke! It%26#39;s a fun spot. Don%26#39;t know what Pittsburgh is like but you really should check out Millinocket%26#39;s playground!

Sooooo, how is it up there in the winter? If we come up for a weekend later in January, what would we be able to do? Are most retaurants and shops open? Do you have snow? Thanks for the info.

Restaurants and shops are open but, so far, there is no snow. That is not what xcountry skiiers and snowmobilers want to hear (or ice fishermen) but the report from a few couples in the last week who came up here for a quiet retreat was that with no snow it was a little easier to hike around in the park. They all had a wonderful time and stopped at my gallery to buy something to remember the place by! Twin Pine, owned by New England Outdoor Center, neoc.com, has wonderful cabins at the side of Millinocket Lake with a great view of the mountain and you can access anything from there. I guess it depends upon what you%26#39;re looking for. We are certainly not a roaring honky tonk at this time of year but you can still bang around in the wilderness and chill out. We are still praying for some snow....

Terrace by the Sea - Good Beach Spot?

We%26#39;re going to Ogunquit for first time next week. Staying at Terrace by the Sea. Does anyone know if there%26#39;s a beach area that may be less crowded? Also, are there restrooms near beach?

Thanks for your help!

Terrace by the Sea - Good Beach Spot?

If you walk along the main beach for about 5-10 minutes you will practically be sitting by yourself. The beach gets crowded at either end ( the main beach and the footbridge beach) because thats where the parking lots and the food concessions are located. Ogunquit beach is beautiful just walk a little past the crowds. There are bathrooms at the main beach parking lot and at the footbridge beach parking lot.

Terrace by the Sea - Good Beach Spot?

Thank you!

When you walk past the crowd on the Main Beach you will then pass the volley ball net. After that there is a small crowded area then nothing but open sand for awhile. If you keep walking you will begin to hit the crowd coming down from the Footbridge Beach.

hand cream

planning two weeks on East Coast

We are in the planning of a trip Oct. 10th to see some of the fall foliage in New England and then a week in the New York City area.

We are thinking of flying in from Portland, Ore. to Portland, Maine and then renting a car for some driving tours staying a few days in places to enjoy the fall colors. Any suggestions as to what direction we should go. Maybe some coast towns as well as some mountain places. We would like to stay at a couple of B%26amp;B%26#39;s and some nice moderate priced motels.

Is it possible to take a train on to New York? What city would we leave from? Our flight home would be from JFK. Thanks for your suggestions. We do have some flexibility as to our time frame so we could be gone longer than two weeks.

planning two weeks on East Coast

Well, welcome to the right coast.

First off, I would recommend a rough loop, beginning in Portland, heading downeast to the Mount Desert Island area, then west to New Hampshire and the White Mountains, then back east to Portland. I don%26#39;t know about trains. It seems to me that there is a train from Portland to Boston, and there should be some from there on to NYC, but someone else with the knowledge will have to provide guidance on this.

I would take a day or two in Portland---not only to recover from the flight, but to explore the area. Stay in the Old Port area---the Portland Regency and the Hilton Garden (on Commercial St.) come to mind. There also are some B%26amp;Bs that have been discussed on the Portland forum. Take the mail boat cruise on Casco Bay---about four hours of wandering around the islands of the bay.

We like Fore St. or Street %26amp; Company for dinner, but again, a scan of the Portland forum will provide many more possibilities. It%26#39;s hard to have a bad meal in Portland.

Take a run over to Cape Elizabeth, Fort Williams, and Portland Head Light.

If you are an LL Bean aficiionado, the flagship store is in Freeport, about 20 minutes from Portland on I-295.

From Freeport, you can either start downeast on the coastal route (Rte 1) or head northeast on the interstate.

If you are interested in art, Rockland has an excellent museum---The Farnsworth---which has an extensive collection of paintings by the Wyeths as well as by those artists who in the late 1800s helped make Maine (and especially the mid-coast and Acadia areas) known.

Camden, just north of Rockland, has a beautiful harbor, lots of shops, and Mt. Battie. If you stay on Rte 1, you%26#39;ll pass through Belfast and across the new Penobscot Narrows bridge, which has a very nice observation tower. After Belfast, there is Ellsworth and the highway (Rte 3) to Mount Desert Island and Acadia National Park.

Bar Harbor is the largest village on MDI. It has a broad range of hotels, motels, and B%26amp;Bs--all within walking distance of the viallage center. You might want to check at

%26gt;http://www.acadiamagic.com%26gt;

to see what is available. This site also is the best single source of information on Acadia National Park and other things to do in the area.

The Bar Harbor Bed and Breakfast Association has a website:

%26lt;http://www.sleepbarharbor.com%26gt;

that provides descriptions, rates, and availability of most of the village B%26amp;Bs.

A general word about travel times. From Portland to MDI is approximately three hours via the interstate; add an hour for Rte 1--more if you stop often for sight-seeing, picture-taking, etc.

There have been several discussions on the Maine and Bar Harbor forums regarding routes to see the western part of the state and New Hampshire. I%26#39;ll see if I can dredge up the specific references.

planning two weeks on East Coast

The Downeaster has service from Maine to Boston - look at www.thedowneaster.com. You can take the acela or the regular amtrak to NYC - look at www.amtrak.com and plug in boston (south station).

thoughts/opions/help!!!

This is the plan.

Arrive Boston 4th July approx 11:30, pick up car and drive to Ogunquit for 4/5 nights. Drive to ------- for 3 night stay. Drive down to Mystic Ct for 4/5 nights. Drive back to Boston for 1/2 nights.

Fly home.

Is 4/5 nights in Ogunquit too long/too short ?

Is 4/5 nights in Mystic too long/short ?

Any thoughts on somewhere between Ogunquit and Mystic for a 3 night stay.

Last year we were in Woodstock, Cape Cod and Newport and Boston

There are 2 adults no kids, like walking, sightseeing, eating out generally taking it pretty easy.

Time in Boston can be cut to a 1 night stay as we only want to avoid a long drive back to the airport and then a 8 hour flight.

Is it maybe better to stay in Boston on arrival (independance day) and join in the fun in Boston on that night.

Thought and opinions are urgently required as the flight prices fluctuate on a daily basis

thoughts/opions/help!!!

Re-post this question on the following forums:

Ogunquit, Maine

Boston, Massachusetts

Mystic, Connecticut

You%26#39;ll get a much wider audience for your question.

thoughts/opions/help!!!

Have you been on this trip yet? 4 to 5 nights in Mystic sounds like an awfully long time. I would think 2 to 3 days is more than adequate, and I%26#39;d aim for a few days somewhere else in between.

The major attractions I am most familiar with are the Mystic Aquarium, which in my opinion is mediocre; the shopping village it lies next to; the Mystic Seaport; downtown Mystic with one lunch or dinner at the Mystic Pizza; some downtown shopping; and the Denison Pequotsepos Nature Center.

Maybe there are more, maybe you will visit other places in a nearby radius. More than likely, you have already taken this trip; so maybe this will at least help someone else browsing around....

I%26#39;d suggest staying in Boston - even if you don%26#39;t get to see the concert at the hatch shell, they%26#39;ll broadcast it on jumbotrons all over the place, so you can just pick a spot with a good view of the river. Also, I think it would be easier to spend a day acclimating (jetlag is always worse for me when I%26#39;m going back east) and then start your drive the next day. But Boston driving is pretty annoying/difficult, so you may want to factor that into your thoughts.

Beaches in June

Hi. My husband and I are planning on taking a road trip to New England next summer. We both love the beach. Is it really warm enough along the coast of Maine to swim or is it best just to sunbathe? Also, what are the best beaches. We don%26#39;t want anything too crowded but would like it to be somewhere where there is plenty to do during the day.

Beaches in June

Err...the water in Maine is cold. Very cold. The temperature will vary dependinng on where the Gulf current is. I was swimming at Old Orchard Beach last summer in 95 degree weather and we were the only ones in water above the ankle. With that said, it%26#39;s certainly swimmable (heck, we did it, and I%26#39;m not terribly warm-blooded). You probably want to stay in southern Maine for the warmest water, but a lot of those (Old Orchard Beach, Wells Beach) will be very crowded, especially on the weekend. I%26#39;m sure other folks will chime in with their favorite beaches...

Jewel Falls at the Fore River Sanctuary

I cannot find any information on this attraction. I see that is in the Fore River Sanctuary; but is there an admission, how long is the hike to get to it, and is it worth the effort?

Thanks,

TMx3

Jewel Falls at the Fore River Sanctuary

As near as I can tell, there is no admission. It is in the city, mostly in residential areas. There are some photos of the falls itself on flickr.

trails.org/map_files/fore_sanct_page_descrip…

I need your help. What Should I do? Day trips needed!

My hubby and I have just booked a room @ the Youngtown Inn in Lincolnville 2 days ago as a spontaneous get away (think throwing a dart at a map) from July 29-Aug 2nd and are completely unfamiliar with this part of Maine. What are the best day trips for the surrounding area? Also what do you think of the Inn?

Thanks,

L4V90

I need your help. What Should I do? Day trips needed!

i don%26#39;t know about the inn, but while you%26#39;re in Lincolnville, you MUST eat at Chez Michelle. Camden and Rockland are both great towns to play tourist in. Go to the Farnsworth Museum, especially if you are Wyeth fans. You%26#39;ll arrive in time for blueberry season - I recommend Brodis Blueberries in Hope. If you golf, the Samoset Resort is a beautiful spot - overlooking the breakwater in Rockport. As I look at your dates, I think you may be in the area for the lobster festival. If you tire of the Camden/Rockport area, head south to Wiscasset or Boothbay. Hope you have a great trip!

I need your help. What Should I do? Day trips needed!

If the weather is clear, I%26#39;d consider visiting Monhegan Island. You can catch the boat from Port Clyde.

(http://www.monheganboat.com/).

If you take the 10:30am boat to Monhegan and the 4:30 boat back, you should have plenty of time to see most of the island. The boat ride back is roughly an hour so you can make it back to Camden for dinner.

Port Clyde is not far from Camden/Lincolnville but make sure and give yourself plenty of time for the drive. Before you board, grab some sandwiches at the Port Clyde General Store for a picnic. Also be sure and check out the Marshall Point Lighthouse in Port Clyde.

You could climb Mt. Battie, or take the ferry to Isleboro to see where J Travolta %26amp; Kirstie Alley have homes...and be sure to drive down to THomaston for Waterman%26#39;s Beach lobster %26amp; homemade pie.

If you get a rainy day, drive Route 3 out to Augusta and visit the Maine State Museum. Stop at John%26#39;s Homemade Ice cream on the way (and on the way back- yum!)

Visit Belfast, 15 minutes north of Camden, for breakfast at Chase%26#39;s Daily - while you wait for your table - yes you will have to wait but it%26#39;s worth it - visit the gallerys in town for a souvenir to hang on your wall reminding you of Maine.

Thanks for the great ideas !!! I%26#39;m sure that we will be giving tose a try.

Heading to Rockport Me - need some advice

My husband and I are heading the Maine to celebrate our five year anniversary. Ironically it falls during the lobster festival which we have wanted to attend since it was showcased on the food network. We will be arriving around dinner time on Thursday - any recommendations on where we should have dinner? We are staying in Rockport at the Strawberry Hill Seaside Inn - fingers crossed, I always worry about booking things online. So any recommendations for restaurants in that area would be great - we would love to have a dinner with water views.

Also, we only plan one day of our trip to going to the lobster fest and walking around Rockland - we specifically want to go to the Breakwater Lighthouse. My husband wants a jetty to fish from. Can you also recommend a good fishing spot in the rockland/camden area? Or a deep sea fishing trip? We will only be in Maine for four days and are looking to fill the other days up with fun day trips. I am considering going into Arcadia National Park but don%26#39;t want to waste the day in the car so I am looking for options closer to where we are staying.

All suggestions are welcome and appreciated!!

Heading to Rockport Me - need some advice

A couple of suggestions:

If you are interested in antique vehicles, cars, boats, palnes, etc. Visit the Owls Head Transportation Museum. http://www.ohtm.org/

A lovely time can be had on a daysail or overnight on a sailing ship out of Camden. http://www.sailmainecoast.com/

A free(?) fun afternoon can be found poking around the dozens of small antique shops in the area.

Hike or drive up Mt Battie for spectacular views.

Heading to Rockport Me - need some advice

tberger,

I am also going for the fest and my anniversary--and have just begun to research the area. Hopefully, someone who knows the area better will reply.

How did you decide on your Inn? Have you learned anything new since your post?

Staying at the Navigator in down town Rockland. I didn%26#39;t want to have to drive to town. Talked to the girl taking my reservation for a while. She grew up in the area, and said the fest is great-they go every year.

Friends of ours said that Arcadia is a can%26#39;t miss. I don%26#39;t think that it is too far.

Acadia IS a great spot, but not really a day trip on a summer weekend day. You will be in traffic (especially during the lobster festival) and will not have time to enjoy all that makes Acadia popular. There are several good suggestions on a similar thread in the Maine forums for day trips in the Camden/Rockport area.

I stayed at Strawberry Hill a few years ago for a wedding and it was a nice spot - not fancy, but not motel-like. I think there was a fire there in the interim and they rebuilt in a similar fashion.

If you should come to that area again, I can recommend the Samoset Resort. You can get an oceanfront room in the hotel, or can often rent a condo. I have done both, and have always enjoyed my accomodations. They have two restaurants - the Breakwater (I think that%26#39;s the name) and Marcel%26#39;s. I believe that Marcel%26#39;s requires a jacket for men at dinner. You can check them out on line.

We also enjoy eating at Chez Michelle in Lincolnville. Great food!

hand cream

Japanese restaurants in Portland

My son%26#39;s in-laws are flying in from Japan. I have to pick them up at the Jetport. They will be hungry and tired, I am sure, and will want to go out to eat. They are not big on American food, though they are willing to try it, especially sea food dishes. (My daughter-in-law cooks them Japanese food when they visit). I figure it would be best to take them to a place where they can get familiar food the first night in. Can someone please suggest a decent Japanese restaurant in Portland? Thanks.

Japanese restaurants in Portland

The Fuji Restaurant in the Old Port is very good. They have Hibachi tables, sushi bar, and there are tables where you can sit on cushions on the floor.

Japanese restaurants in Portland

If they are so tired they don%26#39;t want to go out to eat, but they%26#39;re hungry, you can get sushi at the new Whole Foods store off exit 7 of 295---and you can eat it there.

Driving Directions MD to Maine - avoid New York traffic

We will be traveling to Wells, Maine for vacation again this year - coming from Maryland, however, we always travel through New York and get stuck in the traffic trying to get over the George Washington bridge in New York. Does anyone have a different route that they could recommend or any secret to getting around it. It really is the only part of the road trip that we dread. It has been suggested that we try the Tappanzee Bridge, but I have heard that bridge has the same traffic problems. Maybe someone knows a truckers route to avoid New York altogether. (No offense to any New Yorkers intended) We would like possible like to stop in Cape Cod for a day or two on the way up or back. Grateful for any and all suggestions.

Driving Directions MD to Maine - avoid New York traffic

Check out this from last fall - somebody asked the same question!

tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g28940-i175-k87854…

Driving Directions MD to Maine - avoid New York traffic

My first suggestion would be to check out Airtran or Southwest Airlines! Airtran now flies into Portland, Maine and Southwest flies into Manchester, N.h. or Providence, R.I. Very reasonable reate( %26lt;$80 each way) If you really want to drive, I%26#39;d still go 87/287 over the Tapanzee Bridge and avoid NY City proper. A lot depends on your travel times, however.If you start out very early or leaveafter rush hour you should be allright. Weekdays are obviously preferable to weekend travel! Good luck

If you don%26#39;t want to drive in NYC traffic, you really don%26#39;t want to drive in Boston traffic. And there%26#39;s no way I know of to avoid hideous traffic when going to Cape Cod.

The best solution to avoid traffic around Boston to/from Maine-Cape Cod, is to make the wide swing via I-495. It also depends very much on when you make that leg.

If at all possible, avoid trying to get on/off the Cape Friday-Monday AM. Terrible choke points at the bridges.

We usually leave Jessup, MD on a Sunday about 5am. Stopping for coffee on the way out. When we hit the GW Bridge, traffic is usually moving well.I think we make about 3 stops between MD and Wells (2 bathroom/snack/soda breaks and one lunch). It takes about 8-1/2 hours averaging about 70mph. We do listen to the radio to see if there is any back up on the GW; then, we take the Tap. A little out of the way, but the hubby likes to keep moving. Hope this helps. We%26#39;ve been driving MD to Wells about 20 years and this is the best we%26#39;ve found.

From the SE Pennsylvania area we avoid NYC by using I-287 to NY Thruway to I-84 and then North or East. Avoid GW bridge %26amp; the paying way at the Tappan Zee like the plague. Of course, timing is everything.

My first question would have to be from what part of MD, if from the western part (say west of Baltimore) then I would possibly suggest getting to I-81 and up to I-84 and then heading east on I-84 all the way into central Mass. This is the route I always take anytime I heading south (or coming back home). It is much more scenic and avoids most of the big cities including NY. The drive through the PA and CT hills is really nice. It will add a little distance but all and all will probably save time (and definately save your sanity) as you avoid the traffic. It is in my opininon just a much more pleasant drive. If you are interested tell me your starting point and I will compare the time and distance with my Delorme software and let you know. Also if you are interested there is a nice little alternate route (Hwy 209 in Eastern PA) that is a great drive and only adds a 1/2hr or so to your drive, it gets you off the interstates for a bit.

Hi Club!

Your problem will always be, how do I cross the Hudson River?

Here are your options, in descending order with the best one last.

1) You already know about the first three choices: Verrazano Narrows Bridge to Brooklyn and Holland and Lincoln Tunnels to Manhattan. The Lincoln and Holland deposit you in Manhattan traffic. You can skip Manhattan if you follow the Verrazano, taking the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (I-278), or perhaps the Belt Parkway and the Van Wyck Expressway (I-678) to reach I-95 in the Bronx.

2) If you don%26#39;t travel at rush hour, the George Washington Bridge is the most direct route, and the simplest for navigating. Just follow the signs for I-95. When I did it, during off hours, I just breezed through.

In the Bronx, at Ex. 6 switch to the Hutchinson River Parkway, known as the Merritt Parkway (Rt. 15) in Connecticut. It%26#39;s a delightful tree-lined 4-lane drive with no large trucks. The bridges on the Merritt are built too low for big wheelers. Naturally, you won%26#39;t go this way if you%26#39;re towing a high trailer yourself or driving a Stanley Steamer.

3) For you, I think the Tappan Zee Bridge is the most practical alternative route. It takes you around New York City by the Garden State Parkway through the outer suburbs, avoiding the worst (but not all, of course) of the traffic. As you%26#39;ve discerned, it isn%26#39;t exactly a country road, but it%26#39;s less likely to be congested than the GWB, especially if you%26#39;re not traveling at rush hour.

4) I live in Nova Scotia. People driving motor homes or those from here who are petrified of the city traffic even in Halifax take I-84, the Newburgh-Beacon Bridge, six-lanes, 75 miles north of New York City. If you don%26#39;t mind the little extra driving, take I-81 via Harrisburg, PA to Scranton, then join I-84. You%26#39;ll reach Hartford, and then the Massachusetts Turnpike, never once driving on busy I-95.

As one writer suggested, you can both travel to Maine and visit Cape Cod on the way back by taking I-495, never once venturing into Boston traffic.

5) You wanted the secret route. Here it is, the Bear Mountain Bridge, not far from West Point. Starting out on the Pennsylvania routing for I-84, once you%26#39;re in New York state follow the signs for US-6, a scenic two-lane highway much quieter than the Interstate. It saves you neither time nor distance, but I think it qualifies as the secret route.

Happy travels, and let me know if I can help further.

David

capetien10@gmail.com

Rockville, MD is suburban DC, thus going up around Phila, by going over the I-295 bridge (DE to NJ) and up thru New Jersey, options then are hitting NJ Tpk to the Garden State pkwy to the NY thruway, up 1 exit to I-84 East. By going via I-81 thru PA and then I-84 would seem to be pushing the miles and a wider angle around.

Because of our location we use Rt 202 to Somerville,NJ pick up I-287 to the NY thruway, and then Newburgh bridge(I-84)

The Newburgh bridge avoids possible backup down at Tappan Zee and the GW.

Also, an early start certainly helps. Usually the earlier the better. Check out construction projects before you leave, no matter what route you take.

I have traveled south about 15 times, and have always used a TripTik from AAA. AAA always routes me across the TappanZee bridge. In all those years only about one time has there been real slow going across the bridge.

From there head to I-84, thru Harford, I-90 and on to I-495 to I-95. AAA claims this to be the most direct, fastest route.

Help me with planning this college trip

Our trip begins in CT driving to New Hampshire to visit Keene on to Maine for a visit to University of Southern Maine located in Portland. I am embarassed to say I have only traveled to Maine once.

We would like to find a place to stay near the beach for a couple of nights at the same time we would also like to explore Portland. We have travelled through Europe many times always planning our trip carefully . but for some reason I am lost planning a trip to Maine . where shoud we stay and should we stay longer. than 2 nights ????????

Thanks for your advise.

Help me with planning this college trip

I%26#39;m not too familiar with the quality of the hotels, but Google hotels/motels in Old Orchard Beach, or looking in that forum on TrpAdvisor for more info. That will be the closest town with sandy beaches. USM is right off the highway, so running back and forth from school to OOB is no problem. Two nights will probably suffice.

Help me with planning this college trip

USM also has a campus in Gorham. Depending on your proposed field of study, you might have the majority of your classes on that campus, so make sure you also go there.

Old Orchard Beach has a long sandy beach and the whole amusement park atmosphere, but the hotels/motels vary greatly in quality. Nicer hotels (and also nice beaches) are in the Ogunquit and Wells Beach area, but that is not as close to USM.

Portland is a fun city to explore, so you may want to make the beach a day trip and stay in Portland. Depends on which you think you will enjoy more!

Inn by the Sea in Cape Elizabeth, just south of Portland is a very nice place to stay.

Good Beach Stay w/ 4 kids 4-11 Maine or NH?

We are flying from Dallas to Boston in August and are trying to decide on a beach area. We have looked at Maine and New Hampshire and just cannot decide! We are wanting to rent a cottage, etc and do not want to have to drive for hours from Boston. We really just need a quiet place to get away! Help!!

Good Beach Stay w/ 4 kids 4-11 Maine or NH?

You might have to take what you can get at this late date. August fills up a year ahead. Try campellis.com on a lark, but it%26#39;s maybe 2 hour drive from Boston Logan.

Good Beach Stay w/ 4 kids 4-11 Maine or NH?

I highly recommend York Beach (Long Sands) for a family beach vacation. However, the likelihood of you finding week-long rentals at this point is slim. Look through the trip advisor recommendations, or go to the Chamber of Commerce site for rental phone numbers...Good luck, and I hope you enjoy your vacation!

Kid Friendly restaurants?

Traveling to Bar Harbor next week with my 6 year old, what are the best restaurants that we shouldn%26#39;t miss???

Kid Friendly restaurants?

Geddys--you can color the placemats (crayons provided). Adults are allowed to color as well.

Poor Boys Gourmet---lobster lots of ways without having to deal with the shell.

Jordan Pond House---on the lawn for the scenery.

Pancho Villa%26#39;s---maybe they have a sombrero that will fit a 6-year-old.

Rupununi%26#39;s---lunch or dinner outside (watch the other tourists).

Kid Friendly restaurants?

Young kids might like Route 66 with the colorful 50%26#39;s-60%26#39;s memorabilia .

We were at Poor Boys last week with two kids 8 and 10 and they do not have a childrens menu. My son ate a brownie with ice cream for dinner because that was all he would like on the menu. Route 66 was great for kids as well as Jordans for breakfast.

Thanks everyone for the suggestions! We%26#39;ll be there this weekend, looks like it may rain all weekend though.

If you go to Jordan Pond, make sure you get the popovers!

As the previous poster mentioned, Poor Boy%26#39;s does not have a printed children%26#39;s menu, but ask your server. They will prepare a chicken breast or pasta dish for your child. You do not have to order off of the main dinner menu.

1st week in Sept for week,

Wondering how the camping is for September MT. Narrows.

How is the town alot of peole or least now that it is off season?

Weather?

1st week in Sept for week,

Have never been to that campground but I can tell you that each time we%26#39;ve been there in Sept it%26#39;s been lovely. The crowds are gone by Labor Day; still people of course but nothing like August. We%26#39;ve found that most everything is still open; it%26#39;s cooler but still fine for camping and the lakes/ponds that you can swim in are really warm. Perfect time to go if you like to hike/bike etc.

1st week in Sept for week,

Don%26#39;t know about the campground either, but mrsomes is correct about the crowds being gone that first week in September. The area usually experiences a big slump in tourism for the first two weeks after Labor Day. Then things pick up again as fall foliage begins to draw in the bus tours and the cruise ships along with the couples-without-kids who tour New England and become ';leaf peepers';.

Weather in the first week of September is usually dry, sunny, warm during the day, and cool at night. Highs are still in the 70s. Lows dipping into the 50s.

hand cream

Dangerous sidewalks on Mount Desert Street

If you are staying at one of the lovely bed and breakfasts on Mount Desert Street, be careful walking on the sidewalks which are full of huge crevices and holes. I had no problems walking and hiking in Acadia National Park, but returned home bruised from a fall on the Mount Desert Street sidewalk (It was at 10 AM on a dry day and I was wearing Nike walking shoes!!).

Dangerous sidewalks on Mount Desert Street

Oh dear. So sorry! Part of that sidewalk is due to be replaced this summer. The town didn%26#39;t particularly want to do it during tourist season. But then they thought about the school kids (our grade school is just about the hill from there) who they don%26#39;t want walking out on the road to avoid the sidewalk. It%26#39;s true that it%26#39;s in bad shape.

Dangerous sidewalks on Mount Desert Street

Glad to hear that repairs are planned as this was the only downside to an otherwise lovely stay.

Maine coasts??

We are making a quick one week tour of NH, ME, %26amp; MA. Just a fly by.

Plan on driving from Bar Harbor to Portsmouth NH in one day.

What are the very best coastal towns that are a most see. Don%26#39;t like tourist traps. Won%26#39;t have time to really explore.

Camden Hills ST Park , Pemaquid point, Portland area - Portland breakwater ';Bug'; light; Portland Head light, were some possibles.

Any suggestions would be apprec.

Maine coasts??

If you don%26#39;t really have time to explore and you are already convinced that the Maine coast has ';tourist trap'; towns, you might just as well head to the Interstate and Bangor when you leave Bar Harbor. It will be a quick five hours to New Hampshire.

Maine coasts??

The best coastal towns between MDI and Portsmouth pretty much are tourist towns, so you probably wouldn%26#39;t like them. Bar Harbor to Portsmouth is between four and five hours on the interstate, an hour or so longer via Rte 1. along the coast.

You don%26#39;t say how you are getting to Bar Harbor in the first place (it also is a tourist town). You might be better off sticking to the area between Boston and Portsmouth.

To avoid tourist ';traps';, explore some of the peninsula towns you%26#39;ve never heard of. You will need to get off of Rt. 1. Just explore, you are in for a looooooooooong day.

It is a longer trip on Route 1 than on I-95, so your quickest way is as bonniemaev suggests. Also, most attractions along the coast are not right on Route 1, so that would add time as well.

We have lots of visitors in the summer along the coast, which means that many, if not most, of the ';best coastal towns that are a must see'; will have tourists in them. Not as many as Cape Cod, for example, but maybe they would still be tourist ';traps'; in your opinion. Given that, and the driving considerations, maybe you%26#39;d be best off to just take the interstate. You could then stop in Portland for a quick stop. Portland Head Light is definitely beautiful.

Belfast might be a possibility. It is less of a ';tourist trap'; than perhaps Camden. It has some restaurants and an interesting downtown area.

I hope you don%26#39;t envison Bar Harbor as some sort of pristine, little Maine seaside village. For that, you have to come in January. It is a big time tourist destination, and for good reason, but if you aren%26#39;t into tourist crowds, it might not be the place for you.

You are right--you won%26#39;t have any time to explore. You are in for a LONG day of driving. Expect a lot of traffic that often moves slowly in some areas along Rt. 1.

I live in the Twin Villages of Newcastle %26amp; Damariscotta on the Pemaquid Peninsula and while admittedly biased absolutely love it. MUCH less touristy than BBH for example.