Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chesapeake, Virginia and Fort Kent, Maine

Driving from Chesapeake, Virginia to Fort Kent, Maine is a beautiful journey that takes approximately 20 hours to complete. The route covers around 1200 miles, and it is perfect for anyone who enjoys scenic road trips and exploring unexpected places. This article shares five unexpected places to stop on your way to Fort Kent to make this road trip more exciting.

Halfway Point: Union, CT

Before getting into the five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chesapeake, we must mention Union, CT, the halfway point on your journey. Union, CT, is a quaint and charming town situated in the middle of Connecticut. This small town is an ideal place to take a break from driving, stretch your legs, and take the time to explore some of the local shops and restaurants before continuing your journey.

1. Brattleboro, VT

Brattleboro, Vermont, is a small town located in the southeastern corner of Vermont and an ideal place to stop on your journey. This town has a vibrant arts scene and a thriving food culture, making it famous for its many restaurants and artisanal shops. One of the must-visit food stops in Brattleboro is the Brattleboro Food Co-op, where you can find fresh, organic, and locally sourced products.

2. Montpelier, VT

Montpelier, Vermont's state capital, is a charming city located approximately 50 miles from Burlington. Montpelier is known for its historical significance and its unique architecture, making it an excellent place to stop and stretch your legs. One of the must-visit attractions in Montpelier is the Vermont State House, a magnificent building with stunning furnishings. To grab a quick bite, head to Skinny Pancake, a restaurant in Montpelier that serves delicious crepes.

3. Portland, ME

Portland, Maine, is a bustling city that is famous for its picturesque seacoast, historic landmarks, incredible food, and craft beer. This city is an excellent place to explore the local art scene, take a boat tour, or stroll along the historic Old Port. When it comes to food, be sure to visit Duckfat, a Portland restaurant serving up an array of fried goodies.

4. Kennebunkport, ME

Kennebunkport is a quaint town that is famous for its stunning views of the Maine coastline. Here, you can explore the local art galleries, stroll the beaches, or even watch the boats sail into the harbor. One of the must-visit food stops in Kennebunkport is The Clam Shack, where you can try some of the best lobster rolls in Maine.

5. Bar Harbor, ME

Bar Harbor, Maine, is a charming seaside town that is famous for its breathtaking views of Acadia National Park. In this town, you can enjoy many outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and whale watching. If you are looking for some delicious seafood, head to Bar Harbor Lobster Co. for some of the best lobster bisque in the state.

Why Take This Trip?

The East Coast of the United States is filled with surprising and unexpected places that are well worth stopping for on a long road trip from Virginia to Maine. Whether it's the quaint Vermont towns with their eccentric food scene, the lobster rolls on the Maine coast, or the picturesque views of Acadia National Park, this road trip is a perfect mix of excitement and relaxation. So pack your bags and hit the road for an extraordinary journey that you won't soon forget.