A Road Trip from Barnstable, MA to York, ME

If you're looking to take a road trip from Barnstable, Massachusetts to York, Maine, there are a few different routes you can take. Each has its own benefits, from the scenic coastal views to the convenience of highway travel. Here are the options you have and what to expect from each.

Route 1: The Coastal Drive

Distance: 172 miles Travel Time: 4 hours

For the coastal drive, you'll want to take Route 6 East to Route 6A, which will lead you through charming Cape Cod towns like Dennis, Yarmouth, and Brewster. You'll hit the famous Cape Cod National Seashore before entering into Plymouth and taking Route 3 North. From Route 3, you'll take Route 128, which will loop you around Boston and lead you onto Highway 1A North. The drive will take you through Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and eventually into Maine where you'll see coastal towns and amazing ocean views.

Along the way, make sure to stop at Kittery Trading Post for some shopping and to grab a meal at Warren's Lobster House. But, to truly experience the beauty of the coastline, make sure to stop at Portsmouth, NH, and explore Prescott Park, the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, and Market Square.

Route 2: The Highway Route

Distance: 113 miles Travel Time: 2 hours

If you're looking to get to York as quickly as possible, you'll want to opt for the highway route. Take Route 6 East to Route 25 East, which will lead you onto Interstate 495 North and then Interstate 95 North. This route is a straight shot and will take you through Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

On the highway route, you'll still get some great views, but you'll also have the option to make a stop in Salem, Massachusetts, where you can learn about the history of the infamous witch trials. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, you can make a detour to Ogunquit, Maine and explore the stunning Marginal Way coastal walk and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art.

Route 3: The Inland Route

Distance: 156 miles Travel Time: 3 hours

The inland route is a happy medium between the first two options, and is ideal for those who want a mix of scenery and speed. Take Route 6 East to Route 28, which will lead you through the bustling town of Hyannis. From there, take Route 6A East, which will loop you back around to Route 6 East. You'll then take Route 3 North and eventually onto Route 101 East in New Hampshire. This route will take you through rolling hills and quaint towns.

The inland route offers some great stops along the way, including the historic Plimoth Plantation in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where you can learn about what life was like for the pilgrims. You can also check out Red's Eats in Wiscasset, Maine for some of the best lobster rolls on the East Coast.

No matter which route you take, the drive from Barnstable to York is a picturesque one. So pack some snacks and your favorite playlist, and hit the road!