The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving from Bar Harbor, Maine to Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee

Are you dreaming of a road trip that takes you from the rocky shores of Maine to the rolling hills of Tennessee? Look no further! In this post, we'll share some of the must-see spots between Bar Harbor, Maine, and Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!

Before we get started, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, this drive is long – over 1,200 miles! – so plan for plenty of rest stops and breaks. Second, while we've chosen some amazing destinations along the way, there are plenty of other hidden gems to discover. Feel free to use this list as a starting point and add your own favorite spots.

1. Acadia National Park, Maine

No trip to Maine is complete without a visit to Acadia National Park. This stunning park covers over 47,000 acres of rugged coastline, rocky mountains, and pristine forests. Take a hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. And don't miss the famous Jordan Pond House, known for its popovers and stunning views of Jordan Pond.

2. White Mountains, New Hampshire

After leaving Maine, head south to New Hampshire's White Mountains. This area is known for its stunning fall foliage, but it's worth visiting any time of year. Take a scenic drive along the Kancamagus Highway, hike to the top of Mount Washington, or take a dip in one of the area's many lakes or rivers. Don't forget to stop by the Flume Gorge, where you can walk through a narrow canyon to see waterfalls and towering cliffs.

3. The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Continuing south, you'll cross into Massachusetts and enter the Berkshires. This region is known for its picturesque towns, rolling hills, and vibrant arts scene. Take a stroll down Main Street in Stockbridge, the home of Norman Rockwell and site of his famous painting "Stockbridge Main Street at Christmas". Or head to Tanglewood, the summer home of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, for a picnic and outdoor concert.

4. New York City, New York

Once you reach New York state, it's hard to resist the allure of the Big Apple. Take a detour from your road trip to spend a day or two exploring New York City. Catch a Broadway show, visit the top of the Empire State Building, and stroll through Central Park. And don't forget the food – grab a slice of pizza, a bagel with cream cheese, or some street meat from a food cart.

5. Gettysburg National Military Park, Pennsylvania

History buffs won't want to miss Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania. This site marks the location of the Civil War's bloodiest battle, and is now a national park and museum. Take a guided tour of the battlefield, visit the museum and visitor center, and pay your respects at the Soldiers' National Cemetery.

6. Mammoth Cave National Park, Kentucky

As you make your way south, take a detour to Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky. This park is home to the world's longest known cave system, with over 400 miles of underground passages. Take a guided tour of the cave, hike one of the park's nature trails, or go canoeing on the Green River.

7. Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tennessee

Finally, your road trip comes to an end in Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee. But before you reach your final destination, be sure to stop at Great Smoky Mountains National Park. This park is the most visited national park in the United States, with over 11 million visitors each year. Take a scenic drive through the park, hike to a waterfall, or watch for wildlife like black bears and elk.

Conclusion

Traveling from Bar Harbor, Maine to Nashville-Davidson, Tennessee is an epic road trip full of natural beauty, history, and culture. From the rugged coast of Acadia National Park to the rolling hills of the Berkshires and the iconic skyline of New York City, there's something for everyone along this route. And don't forget the national parks, from Mammoth Cave in Kentucky to Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!