Driving from Stamford to Portland

Question

We are a family from the UK who will be lucky enough to spend 3 weeks on the east coast of the USA in late June/early July this year. We will be driving from Stamford to Portland where we will spend 4 days. I'm looking for advice on stop off points on the way. Is there any where worth stopping to spend a few hours or having a quick detour?

Answer

Your road trip from Stamford, Connecticut to Portland, Maine sounds like a great way to explore the New England coast! The drive from Stamford to Portland is around 3.5 to 4 hours, but there are plenty of charming towns and scenic stops along the way that could make your trip more enjoyable. Here are some fantastic places to stop off, stretch your legs, and experience a little bit of New England along the way:

1. New Haven, Connecticut

New Haven is home to Yale University and offers some great stops if you’re looking for a quick detour. You can take a stroll around the historic Yale campus, check out the Yale University Art Gallery (free admission), or visit the famous Frank Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana for a slice of pizza at one of the oldest pizzerias in the U.S.

2. Madison, Connecticut

If you’re looking for a more relaxed stop, consider heading to the coastal town of Madison, located right on Long Island Sound. It’s a charming New England town with lovely beaches and a few cute shops to browse. It’s a great place to stretch your legs by the beach and enjoy the sea breeze.

3. Guilford, Connecticut

Guilford is a picturesque, historic town that’s worth a short stop. You can walk around the Guilford Green, a lovely town square surrounded by colonial-era homes and churches. If you have time, the Guilford Harbor area offers a peaceful spot for a short walk or a quick snack at one of the local cafés.

4. Old Saybrook, Connecticut

Another excellent stop is Old Saybrook, a coastal town where you can take a scenic walk along the beach or visit the Saybrook Point Marina. If you're into history, you can explore the Old Saybrook Historical Society or just enjoy a relaxing coffee by the water.

5. Mystic, Connecticut

If you have a bit more time, Mystic is a fantastic detour. Famous for its maritime history, you can visit the Mystic Seaport Museum, one of the largest maritime museums in the U.S., or walk along the Mystic River. Mystic also has a vibrant downtown area with great shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlors.

6. Westerly, Rhode Island

Westerly is a quiet town on the Rhode Island border with beautiful beaches, such as Misquamicut State Beach. It’s perfect if you want to take a break, enjoy the ocean, or have a quick picnic on the beach. If you prefer a bit of history, Wilcox Park in the center of town is a peaceful spot for a stroll.

7. Narragansett, Rhode Island

If you’re driving up from Westerly, a stop in Narragansett is a great option. This coastal town is known for its scenic beaches, including Narragansett Town Beach. There are also great seafood restaurants along the shore where you can grab a bite, such as The Breakwater or George's of Galilee.

8. Providence, Rhode Island

If you have time for a longer detour, Providence is a charming city known for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene. You can visit the WaterFire installation (if it’s on during your trip), stroll through Benefit Street, or explore the Rhode Island School of Design Museum. There are also plenty of local restaurants and cafés for a quick lunch or coffee break.

9. Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Before reaching Portland, Cape Elizabeth is a scenic spot worth visiting. It’s home to the famous Portland Head Light, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States. You can visit Fort Williams Park where the lighthouse is located and enjoy a short walk along the coast. It’s a great spot to take in the views of the Atlantic Ocean before you reach your final destination in Portland.

Other Ideas for Stops:

Food Stops: There are many delicious seafood restaurants along the coast. Consider stopping at The Clam Castle in Madison or SeaSwirl in Mystic for a taste of New England’s famous fried clams and lobster rolls.
Beaches and Parks: If you’re traveling in the summer, the Connecticut and Rhode Island coasts have lovely beaches. Rockport State Park near Old Saybrook is great for a short walk or a relaxing time by the water.
Local Markets: Many of the towns along the route have farmers' markets or local food markets that offer unique regional products. Check out The Middletown Farmers Market or The Westerly Farmers Market for fresh produce and local goods.

Overall, your drive from Stamford to Portland offers plenty of opportunities to stop at charming coastal towns, scenic parks, and enjoy some delicious food. Each of these stops provides a mix of history, nature, and New England charm, so you can customize your route based on your interests and time constraints. Enjoy the drive and the beautiful sights along the way!