The Best Places to Visit Between Bar Harbor, Maine and State College, Pennsylvania

Planning a trip from Bar Harbor, Maine to State College, Pennsylvania? There are a lot of amazing places to visit on this route! Here are our top five picks.

The Route and the Halfway Point: Manchester, CT

Before we get started on our top five picks, let's take a moment to talk about the half-way point on this trip: Manchester, CT. This town is a perfect place to take a break. You'll find plenty of great hotels, restaurants, and shops. Plus, the scenery is gorgeous!

Stop 1: Kennebunk, Maine - A Coastal Gem

Kennebunk is located right off Route 1 and offers a true coastal Maine experience. This small town is packed with attractions to visit, including pristine beaches, historical sites, art galleries, and unique shops. Some must-see stops include the Seashore Trolley Museum, Brick Store Museum, and St. Anthony's Franciscan Monastery.

Stop 2: Portsmouth, New Hampshire - A Historic Seaport Town

Portsmouth is a charming town located just minutes from the coast of Maine. This historic seaport town is filled with picturesque streets featuring brick sidewalks and colonial architecture. Visit the Strawbery Banke Museum to get a glimpse into colonial life and explore the beautiful coastal views from Prescott Park.

Stop 3: Salem, Massachusetts - Bewitching History

Salem is infamous for its rich history related to the witch trials of 1692. You can explore that history at the Salem Witch Museum or the Witch Dungeon Museum. However, Salem has more to offer than just bewitching artifacts. Take a stroll through the town's rich history and architecture at the House of Seven Gables or the New England Pirate Museum.

Stop 4: Hartford, Connecticut - A Capital City with Something for Everyone!

Hartford, the capital of Connecticut, offers visitors an eclectic mix of history, art, and entertainment. Visit the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, the Mark Twain House, or the Connecticut Science Center to name just a few of the many attractions. And if you love the outdoors, you'll find plenty of parks and gardens to explore.

Stop 5: State College, Pennsylvania - A College Town with Something for Everyone

Last but not least, we arrive at our final destination: State College, Pennsylvania. This quintessential college town is home to the prestigious Pennsylvania State University. Catch a game at Penn State's Beaver Stadium, visit the Palmer Art Museum, or explore the outdoors at Mount Nittany. And if you're looking for a bite to eat or some great shopping, downtown State College has plenty to offer.

Conclusion

There you have it, our top five picks for places to visit on your trip from Bar Harbor, Maine to State College, Pennsylvania. From coastal gems to historic towns and college towns, this trip has it all. Enjoy your travels!