There are a lot of scenic roads throughout the Pine Tree State. From rocky coastlines to mountain views and classic country roads, you will find plenty of places for a pleasant Sunday drive. There is one road that travels all the way through the state offering some of the best views and attractions along the way. Route 1 in Maine is like the East Coast's answer to Route 66.
This massive 2,390-mile road stretches from Key West Florida to Fort Kent in Maine.
This makes Route 1 the longest north-to-south road in the United States. The Maine portion takes you from the New Hampshire border in Kittery all the way to the Canadian border in Fort Kent. Along the way, you will pass some of Maine’s most notable places to visit.
During the southern portion of the drive, you will be passing a busy and attraction-heavy section of the road.
In Saco, you can take a break from the drive at our number one theme park in Maine, Funtown Splashtown USA. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and fun places to see right on Route 1 all around that southern portion.
If you get hungry along the way then why not stop at one of Maine’s oldest restaurants?
Moody’s Diner has been around since 1927 and has served thousands of residents that have come back for more time and time again. Even if you don’t want to sit down for a meal make sure to grab one of their huge whoopie pies.
Route 1 will also travel through Camden.
This is the quintessential little harbor city of Maine, in every way. Great seafood options and unique shops can be found in the charming downtown area. Then just off Route 1, you can drive up or hike up Mount Battie for a panoramic view of the city and the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.
Along your travels, you will also cross the world's largest observation bridge.
The Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory is a massive feat of engineering. High above the Penobscot River, you will have a great line of sight down the river. If you want an even better view grab a ticket and head up to the 420-foot-tall observatory.
As you continue on you will pass near Bar Harbor and continue north framing the east side of the state.
For miles and miles, you will have beautiful farmlands and see a very different side of Maine that many people do not travel far enough to see. When you arrive at Fort Kent you will have several views along the Saint John River. You will be very close to our neighbors in the north, on the other side of the river is the Providence of New Brunswick in Canada.
Route 1 in Maine is one of the best ways to take a road trip around the state. Starting from the southern end and leading all the way to the border of Canada, this route will certainly take you a while but the trip will be completely worth it. What are your favorite places on Route 1?
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