Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Bristol, CT to Saco, ME

Bristol, CT, and Saco, ME, are two beautiful towns located about 327 miles apart. A road trip between them can be a great way to explore the East Coast and enjoy exciting adventures along the way. The journey includes breathtaking views, historical landmarks, outdoor activities, and delicious food. The halfway point of this trip is Stow, MA, a charming town with an array of unique shops, restaurants, and outdoor attractions. Here are the top five things to do along the way.

1. Visit Mystic Aquarium, Mystic, CT

The Mystic Aquarium located in Mystic, CT, is a must-visit destination for marine lovers and families with kids. The aquarium is home to over 300 different marine species, including colorful fish varieties, sharks, and sea turtles. Visitors can enjoy interactive exhibits such as the touch tank, where they can pet stingrays and sharks under the guidance of expert educators. The Mystic Aquarium was rated the fourth best aquarium in the United States by USA Today in 2020.

2. Walk the Freedom Trail, Boston, MA

A walk along the Freedom Trail in Boston, MA, is a great way to explore American history and Boston's rich culture. The trail, which is 2.5 miles long, passes by 16 historical landmarks, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere's House, and the USS Constitution Museum. Visitors can learn about the significant role Boston played in American history and enjoy the charming architecture and cobblestone streets.

3. Hike Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, ME

Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, ME, is one of the most beautiful parks in the United States, with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and granite mountains. Visitors can explore the park's 49,000 acres via hiking trails, scenic drives, and kayaking on the ocean. Highlights of the park include Cadillac Mountain, which is the tallest mountain on the East Coast, and the Jordan Pond, a crystal-clear lake with a stunning view of the mountains.

4. Take a Lobster Cruise, Portland, ME

Portland, ME, is a seafood lover's paradise, and a lobster cruise is a great way to learn about the local fishing industry and indulge in delicious lobster. Visitors can take a narrated boat tour of Casco Bay, where they can experience the stunning coastline and learn about the lobster harvesting process. The cruise includes a lobster lunch, where visitors can taste the freshest lobster and enjoy local drinks.

5. Visit the Nubble Light House, York, ME

The Nubble Light House in York, ME, is a delightful and iconic sightseeing destination that has been operating since 1879. The lighthouse stands on a rocky island, attached to the mainland via a narrow, short causeway. Visitors can take a scenic walk to the light house and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding ocean. The Nubble Light House is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States.

In addition to the top five destinations, there are many other exciting places to visit along the way, such as Sturbridge Village, where visitors can witness life in a 19th-century New England town, and the Maine Whale Watching Tour, where visitors can spot humpback and finback whales and other marine creatures.

It took about eight hours and twenty-two minutes to travel from Bristol to Saco, including the stops at the top five attractions. The trip is an excellent way to explore the culture, history, and natural beauty of the East Coast and create unforgettable memories.