Seeing a little of northern Maine while passing through

Question

We are finishing a tour of Atlantic Canada in St. John, New Brunswick on Wednesday morning, June 25th and will be driving back to Boston for a 4:30PM flight on Thursday afternoon.

We've previously visited Maine from Freeport south and would like to use this time for a leisurely drive and a chance to see a little of the northern part of the state. We are young seniors, who are interested in sightseeing, minimal hiking, local art, taking photographs and regional food.

We will not be adding additional time to this part of our trip.

Answer

It's wonderful that you’re planning to explore more of northern Maine! The drive from St. John, New Brunswick to Boston is a perfect opportunity to experience some of the state's quieter, more scenic areas. Here’s a suggested route that will allow you to see some highlights of northern Maine while also giving you time to enjoy local art, photography, and food, without the need for extensive hiking:

Your drive will likely take you through a portion of Maine’s picturesque lakes and woods. Here are some recommendations for a leisurely trip with lots to see:

Calais – Your journey from St. John will likely take you near Calais, right on the border with Canada. While this is a smaller town, it's a good place to stretch your legs and enjoy the views of the St. Croix River. There’s a small local museum, and you can take some photos along the riverbank.
Eastport – Not far from Calais, Eastport is Maine’s easternmost city and offers a charming coastal vibe. You can take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, visit local shops, and enjoy the scenery. There are also art galleries and small boutiques that showcase regional artists. It’s a great place for photos of the coastline and small fishing boats.
Lubec – This quaint town, known for its maritime history, is home to the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, which is the easternmost point in the U.S. While you won’t have time for a long hike, you can visit the lighthouse and take in the spectacular views of the ocean. There’s also a small museum dedicated to the area's history, as well as some local art galleries.
Cherryfield – If you’re interested in regional food, consider stopping in Cherryfield, known as the blueberry capital of Maine. You can sample fresh blueberries, blueberry pies, and other local products at small stands or restaurants. It’s a lovely spot for local food and photography, especially in June when the berries are in season.
Ellsworth – Before heading south towards Bangor, Ellsworth offers some great scenic views of the surrounding lakes and forests. It’s an ideal stop for a relaxing lunch or a casual stroll through local art shops and galleries. There are several antique stores in town as well for unique regional finds.
Acadia National Park (Optional Stop) – If time permits, you might consider a quick stop at the edge of Acadia National Park. You won’t have time for extensive hiking, but you can drive through parts of the park and enjoy some scenic viewpoints, especially along the Park Loop Road. The sights of Mount Desert Island are truly beautiful, even from the car, and you'll find plenty of photo opportunities.

As you continue your drive south toward Bangor, you’ll be entering a more populated area, but the journey through northern Maine offers plenty of opportunities to explore the state’s natural beauty, small towns, and local culture. If you’d like to break up the drive, you can take your time to visit a few of these places, enjoy a meal at a local diner, and take some photos along the way.

Remember to plan your time carefully since you have a flight to catch in Boston, but the drive through this part of Maine will give you a wonderful mix of scenic beauty, local history, and regional flavors without requiring too much physical effort. Enjoy your journey through northern Maine!