The Great New England Road Trip: Belgrade, Maine to Amesbury, Massachusetts

Looking for a weekend getaway in New England? Consider a road trip from Belgrade, Maine to Amesbury, Massachusetts. This scenic route gives you a chance to experience the natural beauty of Maine and the history and culture of Massachusetts. Here are some different routes and travel times to help plan your adventure.

The Traditional Route: I-95 South

Distance: 231 miles Travel Time: 4 hours

The most direct route from Belgrade to Amesbury is taking I-95 south. This route takes you through the Pine Tree State and into the heart of Massachusetts. You'll pass through Portland, Portsmouth, and Salem before reaching your destination. Along the way, consider stopping at the Maine State House in Augusta, the famous Nubble Light in York, or the Salem Witch Museum in Salem.

The Scenic Route: US-1 and Coastal Highway 1A

Distance: 260 miles Travel Time: 5 hours

If you want to take in more coastal views, consider taking US-1 and Coastal Highway 1A. This route runs parallel to I-95 but takes you closer to the coast and through smaller, coastal towns. You'll pass through Wiscasset, Rockland, and Camden before reaching Amesbury. Along the way, consider stopping at the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath, the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland, or the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockport.

The Maine-to-Massachusetts Shortcut: ME-109 and NH-16

Distance: 161 miles Travel Time: 3 hours, 30 minutes

If you're short on time but still want to see some of Maine and New Hampshire, consider taking ME-109 and NH-16. This route takes you through some beautiful, rural areas of Maine and New Hampshire before rejoining I-95 near Portsmouth. Along the way, consider stopping at the Pemaquid Point Lighthouse in Bristol, the Kancamagus Highway in Lincoln, or the Strawberry Banke Museum in Portsmouth.

The Quickest Route: I-295 and I-95 South

Distance: 218 miles Travel Time: 3 hours, 45 minutes

If you're on a tight schedule and just want to get to your destination as quickly as possible, take I-295 south to I-95 south. This route takes you through Portland and Portsmouth and is the quickest way to get to Amesbury. Along the way, consider stopping at the Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse in Portsmouth, or the Rockingham Park Mall in Salem.

No matter which route you choose, there are plenty of opportunities for fun and adventure along the way. Safe travels and happy exploring!