Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Barnstable, MA to York, ME

Taking a road trip can be an exhilarating adventure, and driving from Barnstable, Massachusetts, to York, Maine, is no exception. The journey takes approximately three hours if you avoid heavy traffic, but the journey can be longer if you decide to take detours. The route covers approximately 134 miles of coastal New England, and it provides plenty of opportunities to explore the beautiful towns, villages, and scenic landscapes along the way. To make your journey more exciting, we have compiled a list of five unexpected places to stop on your drive from Barnstable, MA, to York, ME.

Halfway Point: Boston, MA

Before we jump into our list of unexpected stops, let's not forget the halfway point of our journey- Boston, Massachusetts. Boston is a vibrant city and a cultural hub of New England. If you have a few extra hours to spare, you should not miss exploring the city of Boston. There are plenty of places to visit in Boston such as the Freedom Trail, the Boston Public Gardens, or the Quincy Market. Grab a famous lobster roll from one of the city's waterfront restaurants and admire the views of the Boston Harbor.

1. Sandwich, MA: Heritage Museum and Gardens

Located just a few miles off the Route 6A, Sandwich, Massachusetts, is a charming town known for its antique shops and the Heritage Museum and Gardens. The museum and gardens are home to a vast collection of American folk art, classic cars, and rhododendrons. The highlight of the museum is the Hidden Hollow, a two-acre outdoor interactive exploration area for kids to play and learn about nature. After exploring the museum, grab an iconic lobster roll, Cape Cod chips, and a glass of homemade lemonade from the Sticky Fingers food truck.

2. Plymouth, MA: Plymouth Rock and Mayflower II

Plymouth, Massachusetts is the iconic destination for history enthusiasts. If you take a short detour off Route 3, you can witness the famous Plymouth Rock and Mayflower II. Plymouth Rock marks the spot where the Pilgrims landed in 1620 before they established Plymouth Colony. Mayflower II is a full-scale reproduction of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to the New World. After exploring the historic sites, stop by East Bay Grille for a hearty lobster bisque.

3. Portsmouth, NH: Strawbery Banke Museum

About an hour and a half into your journey, you'll drive into Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The city of Portsmouth is famous for its picturesque waterfront, cobblestone streets, and the historic Strawbery Banke Museum. The strawbery Banke Museum is a living history museum comprising of over 30 restored buildings and exhibits that bring the history of Portsmouth to life. After exploring the museum, head to The Friendly Toast for their famous Seacoast Frittata.

4. Ogunquit, ME: Marginal Way

Once you enter Maine, one of the must-visit places is Ogunquit's Marginal Way. The stunning coastline walkway is a mile-and-a-quarter long and boasts breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Marginal Way is not crowded, and the salty sea breeze is a refreshing break from the hustle and bustle of urban life. After the scenic walk, indulge in some delicious homemade ice cream at Sweet Pea's Ice Cream.

5. Kennebunkport, ME: Cape Porpoise Pier

The final stop on this journey is Kennebunkport, Maine. The Cape Porpoise Pier is the perfect place to soak in the coastal charm of Maine and watch fishing boats return with their catch. The Pier is surrounded by local seafood restaurants, art galleries, and gift shops. After watching the sunset, head to The Clam Shack for a classic lobster roll and a side of onion rings.

A road trip from Barnstable, Massachusetts, to York, Maine, is an unforgettable experience, and these five unexpected stops have made it even more special. The beautiful scenery, charming towns and villages, and excellent seafood spots will make you fall in love with the heart of New England. Don't wait any longer, grab your loved ones and embark on this fantastic journey.