#Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Buffalo, New York and Portland, Maine
Taking a road trip is an exciting way to discover new places, enjoy beautiful scenery, and have fun adventures. A road trip from Buffalo, New York, to Portland, Maine, provides travelers with an exciting route full of incredible natural landscapes, breathtaking beaches, cosmopolitan cities, and unique attractions. This journey is approximately 520 miles in distance and will take you around eight hours to complete, without stops. The halfway point is Albany, NY, a beautiful city that is known for its rich culture, food, and history. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Buffalo, New York, to Portland, Maine, that every traveler must experience.
##1. Visit Niagara Falls Visiting Niagara Falls is one of the top things to do when you embark on a road trip from Buffalo, NY, to Portland, Maine. Niagara Falls is a beautiful natural wonder that attracts millions of visitors every year. The falls consist of three waterfalls - American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls. Visitors can enjoy the falls from several viewpoints, including the Canadian side, where they can see the falls from a better vantage point. One should not miss the Maid of the Mist boat ride, where they can experience the thundering sound and mist of the falls up close.
Interesting Fact: The flowing water at Niagara Falls is used to generate hydroelectric power that supplies electricity to the northeastern parts of the United States.
##2. Walk Along the Erie Canal The Erie Canal is one of the most popular attractions that travelers should not miss when embarking on a road trip from Buffalo, New York, to Portland, Maine. The Erie Canal is a 363-mile long canal that stretches from Albany to Buffalo and is renowned for its historical significance. Travelers can walk along the canal and enjoy the serene ambiance and scenic beauty of the area. They can also enjoy a boat ride, which takes them through the historic towpaths and locks. One can explore the area's history at the Erie Canal Museum, which showcases the canal's role in the region's growth and development.
Interesting Fact: The Erie Canal opened in 1825, and before its construction, most goods were transported by ship or horse-drawn wagons, which were slow and expensive.
##3. Explore Acadia National Park Acadia National Park, located in Maine, is one of the most scenic national parks in the United States. It offers visitors stunning scenery, rugged coastlines, and diverse wildlife. Hiking is one of the popular activities that visitors can enjoy in the national park, and there are several trails that range from short and easy to challenging and strenuous. With its varied range of landscapes, one can enjoy scenic drives, photography opportunities, swimming, and stunning sunrises and sunsets. There are campgrounds that give visitors a chance to stay in the park and enjoy the natural beauty for an extended period.
Interesting Fact: Acadia National Park was the first national park created east of the Mississippi River.
##4. Visit the Portland Head Light The Portland Head Light is a historic lighthouse located in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, and is one of the region's most photographed sites. The lighthouse was built in 1791, and its stunning white structure and classic features make it a popular tourist destination. Visitors can tour the lighthouse and explore the light keeper's house, which now houses a museum that provides insights into the history of lighthouses. Visitors can also enjoy the stunning views of the sea and rocky coastline from the lighthouse and take a walk along the nearby hiking trails.
Interesting Fact: The Portland Head Light is the oldest lighthouse in Maine.
##5. Enjoy the Old Port District in Portland, Maine The Old Port district in Portland, Maine, is a lively area that offers visitors a combination of traditional New England charm and a vibrant modern culture. One can stroll along the cobbled streets and explore the unique boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, and quaint cafes. There are several fantastic restaurants that offer a range of cuisine, including fresh seafood that is caught daily. The district is known for its lively nightlife, and visitors can enjoy live music, craft beers, and local wines in one of the many bars and clubs.
Interesting Fact: Portland, Maine, was named after the English Isle of Portland and became a bustling seaport in the 19th century.
After eight hours of driving, the trip from Buffalo, New York, to Portland, Maine, provides visitors with an abundance of scenic beauty, stunning natural wonders, history, and adventure. Travelers will enjoy the diversity of cultures, cuisines, and lifestyles, which make this journey a memorable one. Whether you want to enjoy nature, explore new places, or sit back and relax, this road trip offers everything you need for a fantastic adventure.