Portland, ME to Miramichi, NB Canada

Question

Hello,

Two of us are flying into Portland, ME from Maryland . Then driving to Miramichi, NB. Can anyone recommend a halfway place to eat and spend the night and then resume driving the next day. Also what is the best route? Prefer scenic or lower traffic. We have plenty of time. We will be going in Mid May.

Answer

Sounds like a lovely trip! Driving from Portland, ME to Miramichi, NB in mid-May will take you through some beautiful regions of New England and Canada. The total drive is about 6 to 7 hours, depending on the route, and a halfway stop is a great idea for a more relaxed journey. Below are some suggestions for a scenic route and a place to stop for a meal and overnight stay:

Best Route:

For a scenic drive with lower traffic, I'd recommend the following route:

Take I-95 N from Portland, ME to Bangor (about 2.5 hours). This portion of the drive is relatively straightforward but offers beautiful views as you get closer to Bangor.
From Bangor, continue on US-2 W to cross into New Brunswick, Canada. This route takes you through more rural and scenic areas, offering some great views and small towns along the way.
If you want to avoid major highways and enjoy more scenic roads, you can take Route 9 through Maine (known as the "Coastal Route") for a slower-paced, picturesque drive, although this may add more time to your trip.

Halfway Stop (For Food and Overnight Stay):

A good halfway point for both food and a place to spend the night would be around Bangor, ME, which is about 2.5 to 3 hours from Portland. Bangor is a charming city with lots of places to eat and stay. Here are a few options:

Food: The Fiddlehead Restaurant – A popular spot for both locals and travelers. Known for fresh, local seafood and American dishes. It's a cozy and casual place to enjoy a nice meal before resuming your journey.
Overnight: Hollywood Casino Bangor – If you're looking for something a little different, this hotel offers a comfortable stay with a casino for entertainment if you're in the mood for a fun break. It's conveniently located off the highway and has good amenities.
Overnight: The Charles Inn – A boutique, historic hotel right in downtown Bangor. This spot offers a quaint, quiet place to rest and is within walking distance of several restaurants and attractions.

Alternative Stop in New Brunswick: Saint John

If you'd like to make it all the way into Canada in one go, another option for a halfway stop is in Saint John, NB, located about 3.5 hours from Bangor. Saint John is a historic city on the Bay of Fundy, known for its scenic harbor and the famous Reversing Falls. There are plenty of restaurants and small hotels to choose from. You could break up your journey with a walk along the waterfront before continuing on to Miramichi.

Additional Tips:

Make sure you have all necessary documents ready for crossing the border into Canada (e.g., passport or NEXUS card).
Check road conditions and border crossing times before your trip, as some routes may be slower due to construction or seasonal closures in May.
Consider checking out local diners or small eateries along the route to sample regional specialties, especially in Bangor and Saint John!

Enjoy your road trip, and don't forget to take some time to appreciate the beauty of the drive as you make your way to Miramichi!