Points of Interest between Bath, Maine to Virginia Beach, Virginia

picture of Bath, Maine

The Ultimate Road Trip: Top Places to See When Driving From Bath, Maine to Virginia Beach, Virginia

Are you feeling the call of the open road? If you're planning a road trip from Bath, Maine to Virginia Beach, Virginia, you're in for a treat. This 900-mile journey takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery on the East Coast and offers a wealth of unique experiences along the way. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just someone who loves to explore new places, this road trip has something for everyone. So buckle up and get ready to hit the highway – here are the top places you should see when driving from Bath to Virginia Beach.

Part 1: From Bath to Hartford

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Start your journey off on a high note with a visit to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, located just a 20-minute drive from Bath. This 295-acre oasis is home to an array of stunning gardens and natural landscapes, including a stunning water feature known as the Great Lawn, a Children's Garden, and even a Lerner Garden of the Five Senses. Take a guided tour or explore at your own pace; either way, you're sure to find plenty of photo-worthy sights.

Portland, Maine

Next up, head to Portland, Maine – a city that's known for its thriving art scene and delicious seafood. Start your visit at the Portland Museum of Art, where you can see works by Maine artists as well as pieces from around the world. Then, head to the Old Port District, where you can indulge in some fresh lobster or oysters at one of the many waterfront restaurants. End your day with a stroll through the Eastern Promenade, a beautiful park overlooking Casco Bay.

Boston, Massachusetts

As you head farther south, make a stop in Boston – a city that's steeped in history and culture. Take a walk along the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile path that leads you to some of the city's most important historical sites, including the Old North Church and the site of the Boston Massacre. Then, head to Fenway Park to catch a game or explore some of the city's many museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts or the New England Aquarium.

Newport, Rhode Island

No trip down the East Coast would be complete without a visit to Newport, Rhode Island – a city that's famous for its beautiful mansions and yachts. Take a tour of the Breakers, a stunning Gilded Age mansion that was once the summer home of the Vanderbilt family, or head to Castle Hill Inn for a delicious meal with a view. And if you're a fan of sailing, be sure to check out the Newport International Boat Show, which takes place in September.

Hartford, Connecticut

End your first leg of the journey in Hartford, Connecticut – a city that's often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors but has plenty to offer in its own right. Visit the Mark Twain House, where the iconic author lived and worked for many years, or head to the Wadsworth Atheneum Museum of Art, which is the oldest public art museum in the country. And if you're a fan of craft beer, be sure to check out the Hartford Beer Trail, which features more than a dozen local breweries.

Part 2: From Hartford to Virginia Beach

As you continue your journey south, make a stop in New Haven, Connecticut – home to the prestigious Yale University. Visit the Yale University Art Gallery, which features an impressive collection of works from around the world, or take a walk around the campus to see some of the stunning architecture. And if you're in town during the fall, be sure to catch a Yale football game – it's a quintessential New England experience.

New York City

You can't take a road trip down the East Coast without a stop in the Big Apple. While New York City may be overwhelming at first, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Take a stroll through Central Park or visit some of the city's many famous landmarks, such as the Statue of Liberty or the Empire State Building. And of course, no visit to New York would be complete without trying some of the city's iconic foods, such as pizza, bagels, and hot dogs.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Next up, head to Philadelphia – a city that's widely regarded as the birthplace of America. Visit Independence Hall, where both the Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution were signed, or check out the Liberty Bell, which is a symbol of American independence and freedom. And if you're a foodie, be sure to indulge in some Philly cheesesteaks or soft pretzels while you're in town.

Shenandoah National Park

As you leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind, make your way to Shenandoah National Park – a stunning natural oasis that's home to a variety of animals, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails. Drive the scenic Skyline Drive or hike some of the park's more challenging trails, such as the Old Rag Mountain Trail or the Whiteoak Canyon Trail. And if you're lucky, you might even spot some black bears or deer along the way.

Virginia Beach

Finally, arrive at your destination – Virginia Beach, Virginia. With its miles of sandy beaches, lively boardwalk, and delicious seafood, this city is the perfect place to kick back and relax after a long road trip. Take a dip in the ocean, stroll along the boardwalk, or indulge in some fresh seafood at one of the many local restaurants. And if you're up for a little adventure, why not try some watersports such as surfing, paddleboarding, or kayaking?

Conclusion

From quiet coastal gardens to bustling big cities, this road trip has something for every kind of traveler. The journey from Bath, Maine to Virginia Beach, Virginia is a long one, but the sights, sounds, and experiences you'll encounter along the way are well worth it. So put on your favorite playlist, pack some snacks, and hit the road – the adventure of a lifetime awaits!