Five Unexpected Places to Explore on a Drive from Calais to Waterville

The state of Maine covers over 35,000 square miles and is packed with picturesque towns and scenic roads. One of the best ways to truly appreciate the beauty of Maine is by taking a road trip, and one of the most beloved routes takes you through Calais all the way down to Waterville. The 188-mile journey can take anywhere from 4-6 hours depending on your route and stops. This article will highlight five unexpected places to visit on a drive from Calais to Waterville that you won't want to miss.

The Halfway Point: Amherst, ME

Before diving into the destinations, it's important to note the halfway point: Amherst. Located roughly 91 miles from Calais and 97 miles from Waterville, the small town of Amherst is the perfect place to take a break and stretch your legs. You can grab a cup of coffee or tea at the local Bean Counter Coffee Shop or visit the recently renovated Amherst General Store for a classic deli sandwich. The store also offers homemade bakery delights that are worth a taste. You can even take a stroll around Amherst Village Park and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

1. Eastport, ME

Located at the easternmost point of the United States, Eastport is known for its stunning views, thriving artist community, and delicious seafood. The town boasts several galleries, a fantastic natural history museum, and a beautiful walkway along the waterfront. Food-wise, visitors should try the iconic Raye's Mustard Mill for a unique tour and to purchase some of their famous stone-ground mustard. For a great meal, try The Pickled Herring for delectable fresh seafood dishes.

2. Bucksport, ME

Traveling south on Route 1, about 62 miles from Eastport, you'll reach Bucksport, situated on the Penobscot River. A fantastic stop for history buffs, Bucksport is home to the Buck Memorial Library, a historic spot built in honor of Revolutionary War hero Jonathan Buck. The town is also a great place to snap photos, especially atop the hill at Fort Knox, which has a breathtaking view of the Penobscot Narrows Bridge. A must-try while in Bucksport is the Buck's Restaurant, which is known for its extensive menu featuring seafood, burgers, sandwiches, and breakfast all day.

3. Belfast, ME

Located about 25 minutes south of Bucksport, Belfast is a picturesque coastal town that is popular among tourists. The town is notable for its historic architecture and fantastic downtown area near the waterfront. There are many shops, galleries, and restaurants to browse, but some highlights include the Colonial Theatre, United Farmer's Market, and Front Street Shipyard. Food-wise, a long-standing favorite is Young's Lobster Pound, where patrons can enjoy a fresh lobster roll, crab cake, or fried clams.

4. Unity, ME

Continuing south on Route 15, about 20 miles from Belfast, you'll arrive in Unity, a small town that is home to Unity College, the first college in the nation to focus on environmentalism and sustainability. Unity is also home to The Common Ground Fair, a popular event held annually by the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association. Visitors to Unity can tour the college's campus or take a hike at the nearby Cobscook Bay State Park. When it comes to food, Halldale Inn is a classic stop where you can enjoy a great burger, pizza, or seafood dish.

5. Waterville, ME

Your final destination on this road trip is Waterville, a small city nestled in the Kennebec Valley region of Maine. Known for its historic buildings, Waterville is home to Colby College and the Waterville Opera House, host to many concerts and performances throughout the year. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic Kennebec River Rail Trail, the Redington Museum, or the Railroad Square Cinema. A great spot for seafood is Joseph's Market, which has its own lobster pound and offers a variety of freshly prepared dishes to choose from.

In Conclusion

This road trip from Calais to Waterville is a great opportunity to see some of the best that Maine has to offer. From coastal towns to historic landmarks to stunning natural sceneries, there is something for everyone to enjoy. And the food? You won't be disappointed with the fresh seafood, classic deli sandwiches, and homemade bakery delights that Maine has to offer. Embark on this journey to truly understand what makes Maine the way life should be.