Acadia National Park is the smallest national park in the United States and is somewhat isolated. Many want to know exactly how far it is to Acadia National Park and more importantly; how do I get there and how long will it take.
The closest city to Acadia National Park is Bangor, Maine. Bangor has an international airport, along with car rental companies. It will take one from Bangor to Acadia National Park.
Many tourists like to take in many of the other sights and surrounds of the stunning east coast and drive from other large cities.
Acadia National Park is a easy day trip from most major cities in the area and a beautiful way to spend a weekend. It is even one of the only national parks where you can bring your dog too!
Portland, Maine is one of the most popular cities to fly into for those wanting to visit the Acadia National Park and the surrounding area.
It will likely take several hours to drive from the major cities to Acadia National Park but it will be a road trip that is well worth the time.
How Many Days Do You Need In Acadia National Park
Portland To Acadia National Park
It will take just under 3 hours to drive from Portland to Acadia National Park. It is generally the airport of choice for tourists who wish to visit Acadia fly into. There are regular flights from across the country and competitive rates.
There are two routes that you can take from Portland to Acadia National Park. One route is an inland route which will take you via the interstate. This is a much less scenic route but will cut off a small amount of time, roughly 30 mins.
The second route will take you on a beautiful coastal drive along some of the most beautiful roads the East Coast has to offer. You can expect this drive to take 3.5 hours without stopping. However, it will be a pity not to stop at some of the iconic restaurants and museums along the way.
If you are going to take the scenic route to Acadia National Park then you might as well make a day of it. Stop for a lobster roll at the famous Red’s Eats and you won’t be disappointed.
Boston To Acadia National Park
The drive from Boston to Acadia Natipnal Park is 4.5 hours. It is slightly further out than the more popular choice of Portland but Boston itself is home to some remarkable treasures.
You will be able to make the trip from Boston to Acadia National Park in one day. Our suggestion would be to leave Boston early morning and make your way to Portland, Maine. This portion of the trip will take around 1 hour 45 mins.
Once in Portland feel free to explore a little and grab some breakfast or morning tea at Becky’s Diner. This diner is a Portland classic not to be missed. Serving up all your breakfast classics at a very reasonable price right on the wharf. If you can stay for lunch don’t forgo a classic lobster roll which is said to be the best in town.
From Portland you can either take the interstate to Acadia for a quicker trip or opt for the slightly longer scenic route that will immerse you in beautiful coastal views along the way.
Driving to Acadia National Park
New York To Acadia National Park
A drive from New York to Acadia Naatipnal Park will take roughly 8 hours without stopping. This is definitely and all day drive but don’t let that put you off! There are plenty of places to stop making it a true road trip adventure.
On long road trips it’s vital to know where to stop. Check out this post which will help you find all the best places to stop on any road trip
If you aren’t keen on driving the whole way in just one day then perhaps you would like to spread it over a few days and really enjoy the little towns along the way.
Fall foliage is absolutely stunning and you will be silly not to take the time to truly appreciate its beauty. Stop for a night or two along the road at places like Stamford, Bridgeport and New Haven.
Can I Get a Train to Acadia National Park?
There is no train service to Acadia National Park. The closest train station is located in Brunswick, Massachusetts. You will be able to get a train from Boston to either Freeport, Portland or Brunswick. From there you will need to either drive or get a bus.
On this note you would be better to either hire a car or to get a bus to reach Acadia.
Can I Get A Bus To Acadia National Park?
You can get a bus to Acadia National Park. There are regular but limited bus services that run to Bar Harbor. Bar Habor is the gateway to Acadia National Park and where the entrance is located.