Best Road Trip Destination: Akron, Pennsylvania to Bar Harbor, Maine

Are you planning an exciting road trip from Akron, Pennsylvania to Bar Harbor, Maine? If so, you're in for an epic journey of breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities, delicious food stops, and endless adventure spots. Along the way, you can explore the best of the East Coast's beauty and history, making unforgettable memories to last a lifetime. Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner or a group, gear up for a ride of your life. Here are the top places to see and things to do on this fantastic road trip.

Best of PA: Lancaster County

Lancaster County is simply gorgeous with its green pastures, rolling hills, winding creeks, and small towns that are a throwback to the 18th century. There are numerous small communities throughout the county where you can find streets lined with unique shops, cafes, and restaurants. The farmers' fresh produce and homemade goods bring in regional visitors all year long. The area is settled by the Amish community, and you can learn about their fascinating culture and way of life on a farm tour or a buggy ride. Visit the Strasburg Railroad Museum, where you will find steam engines and historic trains on display. There's a lot to see and do in Lancaster County, which makes it an absolute must-visit destination on your drive from Akron.

Best of NJ: Cape May lighthouse and beach

Cape May is a laid-back coastal town set in New Jersey's southernmost tip, offering a peek into the state's old-timey past and gorgeous shoreline. The Cape May Lighthouse is a gleaming beacon built-in 1859, open to the public year-round for scenic views and historical tours. There is something extremely peaceful at Cape May that perfectly captures the “beach town vibe." This charming and vibrant locale offers loads of activities like whale watching, wineries, spas, and bird watching. You can take a dip in the beautiful beaches, go paddling, kayaking, and take in the clean air of the ocean. Regardless of what you do in Cape May, you’ll be happy you stopped by.

Best of NY: Niagara Falls

The drive from Akron, PA, to Niagara Falls, NY, is stunning, with rolling hills and beautiful farmland. Niagara Falls is majestic, roaring, and awe-inspiring, one of the world's most famous natural wonders. It is the perfect place to band over with nature enthusiasts because of the scenic beauty and wildlife. The "Maid of the Mist" boat ride will take you within feet of the falls, soaking up in the mist and feeling the rushing water's power. Do visit the Niagara Gorge Trail for an up-close and personal view of the Niagara River. If you’re lucky, you might be able to spot the Atlantic salmon running through the gorge's waters. Niagara Falls is perfect for those wanting to experience something breathtaking before heading out to Maine.

Best of VT: Burlington

Burlington is a beautiful waterfront city located on the shores of Lake Champlain, boasting some of Vermont's most beautiful vistas. The city features upscale dining, boutique shops, and charming cafes with a bustling atmosphere. The University of Vermont (UVM) campus dominates the downtown district, providing plenty of college town charm. It’s the best place to unwind on a late afternoon stroll, watch the sailboats glide across the lake, and enjoy the scenic mountain view. The Essex ferry ride across Lake Champlain is an absolute delight, too. Don’t forget to stop by Ben and Jerry’s factory tour, which includes a sample of their world-famous ice cream, freshly made on-site.

Best of ME: Acadia National Park

The last leg of the journey, of course, takes us to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park - the crown jewel of all of Maine's national parks. The scenery is breathtaking - mountains, forests, and oceans blend together to form a unique and utterly stunning landscape. Take a guided drive tour of Acadia National Park and enjoy the moderate hikes, picturesque lighthouses, and tide-filled inlets. Explore the summit of Mount Desert Island, or visit Cadillac Mountain to witness breathtaking sunrises. The park features a rugged coastline with dramatic views, and the wildlife is an added bonus. After a fun and thrilling road trip adventure with your loved ones, at Bar Harbor, enjoy a relaxing meal of fresh seafood in any of the restaurants lining the famous harbor.

Conclusion

Taking this road trip from Akron, Pennsylvania to Bar Harbor, Maine is an exceptional way to explore the beauty, history, and diversity of the East Coast's landscape. Along the way, you can enjoy natural wonders, unique landmarks, and cultural experiences that will make it a trip of a lifetime. Plan your stops with ample time in each location to fully experience it. Whether you are traveling for a week or two, keep in mind that every excursion you take can be the highlight of your trip. Pack up your car and hit the road as soon as possible to create unforgettable memories with your loved ones.