Birmingham to Maine Road Trip – Itinerary and Ideas

Apr 3, 2023

A road trip from Birmingham, AL to Maine offers a diverse range of experiences, from bustling cities to scenic landscapes. Here’s a suggested itinerary with some popular stops along the way. Feel free to adjust the route and stops to suit your preferences.

Drive 1: Birmingham, AL to Asheville, NC

Distance: ~340 miles
Drive Time: ~5 hours 30 minutes

Asheville is a popular destination for its vibrant arts scene, rich history, and outdoor activities. Here are some top things to do in Asheville, NC:

Biltmore Estate: Visit America’s largest privately-owned home, built by George Vanderbilt in the late 19th century. Tour the mansion, gardens, winery, and enjoy various seasonal events.
Downtown Asheville: Stroll through the lively downtown area filled with art galleries, boutique shops, breweries, and diverse dining options.
Blue Ridge Parkway: Drive along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, which offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains. Stop at the numerous overlooks, hiking trails, and picnic spots.
Asheville Art Museum: Explore this museum featuring 20th and 21st-century American art, with a focus on works from the Southeastern United States.
River Arts District: Visit this vibrant district with numerous art studios, galleries, and mural-covered buildings. You can also take a guided walking tour to learn more about the local art scene.
North Carolina Arboretum: Wander through 434 acres of landscaped gardens, woodlands, and exhibits dedicated to the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
The Omni Grove Park Inn: Even if you’re not staying at this historic hotel, you can visit its iconic lobby, enjoy a meal at one of its restaurants, or relax at the luxurious spa.
Hiking and outdoor activities: Asheville is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, offering plenty of opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities. Popular trails include those in the Pisgah National Forest and the nearby Chimney Rock State Park.
Breweries: Asheville is known as “Beer City USA” due to its thriving craft beer scene. Take a brewery tour or visit some of the many local breweries, such as New Belgium Brewing Company, Highland Brewing Company, and Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
Live music and entertainment: Catch a live show at one of the many music venues in Asheville, such as The Orange Peel, Grey Eagle, or Isis Music Hall.

Drive 2: Asheville, NC to Charlottesville, VA

Distance: ~340 miles
Drive Time: ~5 hours 30 minutes

Charlottesville, VA, is a charming city with a rich history and picturesque surroundings. It’s known for its connection to Thomas Jefferson and the University of Virginia, as well as its vibrant downtown area and outdoor activities. Here are some top things to do in Charlottesville:

Monticello: Visit Thomas Jefferson’s home, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the beautifully preserved house, gardens, and grounds.
University of Virginia: Stroll around the historic grounds of the University of Virginia, designed by Thomas Jefferson. Don’t miss the Rotunda, the Lawn, and the numerous historic buildings and gardens.
Downtown Mall: Wander through this outdoor pedestrian mall, lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Enjoy a meal, catch a live show, or simply people-watch.
Virginia Discovery Museum: This children’s museum offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, perfect for young visitors.
Carter Mountain Orchard: Visit this family-owned orchard to pick your own fruit, enjoy panoramic views, and taste some delicious apple cider donuts.
Ash Lawn-Highland: Explore the home of James Monroe, the fifth President of the United States, and learn about his life and contributions to American history.
Michie Tavern: Step back in time at this 18th-century tavern, where you can enjoy a traditional Southern meal and tour the historic building.
Ivy Creek Natural Area: Hike through this 215-acre preserve, featuring walking trails, wildlife, and stunning views of the Rivanna River.
Charlottesville Historic Downtown Wine Trail: Sample local wines at several nearby wineries, such as Blenheim Vineyards, Jefferson Vineyards, and King Family Vineyards.
Outdoor activities: Charlottesville is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, offering opportunities for hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Visit nearby Shenandoah National Park or take a scenic drive along Skyline Drive or the Blue Ridge Parkway.

Drive 3: Charlottesville, VA to Washington, D.C.

Distance: ~120 miles
Drive Time: ~2 hours 30 minutes

Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is a city filled with history, monuments, and cultural attractions. Here are some top things to do in Washington, D.C.:

National Mall: Visit this iconic green space, which stretches from the U.S. Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial. It is lined with numerous monuments, memorials, and museums.
Smithsonian Museums: Explore the many free museums located along the National Mall, including the National Museum of American History, National Museum of Natural History, and the National Air and Space Museum.
U.S. Capitol Building: Take a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol, the home of the United States Congress, and learn about the history and architecture of this iconic building.
White House: Walk by the White House, the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States. Public tours are available, but you’ll need to request them through your member of Congress well in advance.
Monuments and Memorials: Visit the many monuments and memorials dedicated to important figures and events in American history, such as the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
National Gallery of Art: Explore this world-class art museum, which houses an extensive collection of European and American art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh.
Tidal Basin: Stroll around the Tidal Basin, particularly during the National Cherry Blossom Festival in the spring, when the cherry trees are in full bloom.
Library of Congress: Tour the largest library in the world, which houses millions of books, manuscripts, and maps. Don’t miss the stunning Great Hall.

Drive 4: Washington, D.C. to Philadelphia, PA

Distance: ~140 miles
Drive Time: ~2 hours 30 minutes

Philadelphia, PA, is a city steeped in American history and culture. Here are some top things to do in Philadelphia:

Independence National Historical Park: Visit the park that houses Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed, as well as the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American freedom.
Philadelphia Museum of Art: Explore this world-class museum, which features an extensive collection of art spanning various eras and styles. Don’t forget to take a photo with the famous “Rocky Steps” outside the museum.
Reading Terminal Market: Sample a variety of foods and shop for local goods at this historic indoor market, which has been operating since 1893.
The Franklin Institute: Visit this interactive science museum, which offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for all ages. The museum also houses the Benjamin Franklin National Memorial.
Eastern State Penitentiary: Take a tour of this historic and infamous prison, which once housed notorious criminals such as Al Capone and “Slick Willie” Sutton.
The Barnes Foundation: Explore this renowned art collection, which includes works by famous artists such as Picasso, Matisse, and Renoir.
The Mütter Museum: Discover this unique museum of medical history, which features an array of anatomical specimens, medical instruments, and other oddities.
Elfreth’s Alley: Stroll down America’s oldest continuously inhabited residential street, which dates back to the early 1700s.
Please Touch Museum: Perfect for families with young children, this hands-on museum encourages interactive play and learning through various exhibits and activities.

Drive 5: Philadelphia, PA to New York City, NY

Distance: ~95 miles
Drive Time: ~2 hours

New York City is a bustling metropolis with a diverse array of attractions, landmarks, and cultural experiences. Here are some top things to do in New York City:

Times Square: Visit this iconic intersection, known for its bright lights, massive billboards, and Broadway theaters.
Central Park: Explore this 843-acre urban oasis, which offers walking and biking paths, scenic spots, and various attractions like the Central Park Zoo, Bethesda Terrace, and Strawberry Fields.
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Take a ferry to visit these symbols of American freedom and immigration. You can also climb to the crown of the Statue of Liberty with advance reservations.
Empire State Building: Head to the top of this iconic skyscraper for incredible views of the city from its observation decks.
Broadway: Catch a world-class show at one of the many theaters in New York’s famed Broadway district.
Metropolitan Museum of Art: Explore one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world, which features collections spanning over 5,000 years of history.
9/11 Memorial and Museum: Pay your respects at the memorial and learn about the tragic events of September 11, 2001, at the museum.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Visit this renowned museum, which houses an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Warhol.
The High Line: Stroll along this elevated linear park, which was once an abandoned railway line, and enjoy art installations, gardens, and views of the city.
One World Observatory: Take in 360-degree views of New York City from the top of One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

Drive 6: New York City, NY to Boston, MA

Distance: ~215 miles
Drive Time: ~4 hours

Boston, MA, is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and a diverse range of attractions. Here are some top things to do in Boston:

Freedom Trail: Follow this 2.5-mile-long trail through downtown Boston, which takes you to 16 historic sites, including the Massachusetts State House, Paul Revere’s House, and the Old North Church.
Fenway Park: Catch a game or take a tour of this iconic ballpark, home to the Boston Red Sox.
New England Aquarium: Visit this popular attraction, which features a large central tank, a penguin habitat, and a variety of marine life exhibits.
Museum of Fine Arts: Explore this world-renowned museum, which houses an extensive collection of art spanning different eras and styles, including works by Monet, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh.
Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum: Learn about the famous Boston Tea Party through interactive exhibits and live reenactments at this immersive museum.
Quincy Market and Faneuil Hall Marketplace: Shop, dine, and enjoy live street performances at this historic market complex.
Boston Common and Public Garden: Stroll through these adjacent parks, which offer beautiful green spaces, walking paths, and the famous Swan Boats.
Beacon Hill: Wander through this charming neighborhood with its narrow streets, brick sidewalks, and historic row houses.
The USS Constitution Museum: Discover the history of the oldest commissioned warship afloat in the world, the USS Constitution, and explore the interactive exhibits at the museum.
The Institute of Contemporary Art: Experience contemporary art and culture at this waterfront museum, which features rotating exhibits, performances, and film screenings.

Drive 7: Boston, MA to Portland, ME

Distance: ~110 miles
Drive Time: ~2 hours

Portland, Maine, is a charming coastal city known for its historic architecture, vibrant arts scene, and excellent culinary offerings. Here are some top things to do in Portland, ME:

Old Port: Explore this historic district with its cobblestone streets, 19th-century brick buildings, shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Portland Head Light: Visit Maine’s oldest lighthouse, located in Fort Williams Park, and enjoy the picturesque views and surrounding parkland.
Casco Bay: Take a ferry or cruise around Casco Bay to explore its beautiful islands, or hop on a whale-watching or fishing excursion.
Portland Museum of Art: Discover this well-regarded museum’s extensive collection of American, European, and contemporary art.
Eastern Promenade: Stroll along this scenic waterfront park, which offers walking and biking trails, a beach, and stunning views of Casco Bay.
Victoria Mansion: Tour this beautifully preserved 19th-century Italianate mansion with original furnishings and elaborate interior decoration.
Allagash Brewery: Sample local craft beers at one of Portland’s many breweries, such as Allagash Brewing Company, Rising Tide Brewing Company, or Bissell Brothers.
Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Co. & Museum: Learn about Maine’s narrow-gauge railway history and take a scenic train ride along the waterfront.
Portland Observatory: Climb to the top of this historic maritime signal tower for panoramic views of the city and harbor.
Peaks Island: Take a short ferry ride to this nearby island, which offers beaches, walking trails, and a relaxed atmosphere away from the city.

Drive 8: Portland, ME to Bar Harbor, ME (Acadia National Park)

Distance: ~160 miles
Drive Time: ~3 hours

Bar Harbor, Maine, is a picturesque coastal town and the gateway to Acadia National Park. It offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy. Here are some top things to do in Bar Harbor, ME:

Acadia National Park: Explore the stunning landscapes of this national park, which features hiking trails, carriage roads, mountain peaks, and rocky shorelines.
Cadillac Mountain: Drive or hike to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast of the United States, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Whale Watching: Embark on a whale-watching tour to catch a glimpse of humpback whales, finbacks, and other marine life in their natural habitat.
Downtown Bar Harbor: Stroll through the charming downtown area, which offers shops, art galleries, restaurants, and ice cream parlors.
The Shore Path: Enjoy a leisurely walk along this picturesque coastal path, which provides stunning views of the ocean and the Porcupine Islands.
Abbe Museum: Learn about the history and culture of the Native American tribes in Maine at this museum, which focuses on the Wabanaki people.
Kayaking and Boating: Rent a kayak or join a guided tour to explore the beautiful coastline and waters around Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.
The Jordan Pond House: Visit this historic restaurant, famous for its popovers and tea service, and enjoy beautiful views of Jordan Pond and the surrounding mountains.
Bar Island: At low tide, walk across the sandbar to explore Bar Island, which offers hiking trails and views of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.
Village Green: Relax in this centrally located park, which often hosts live music and events during the summer months.

These are just a few destinations and attractions you can visit on your road trip from Birmingham, AL, to Maine. Be sure to research each location in advance, as opening hours and availability may vary. Plan for additional time to account for traffic, stops, and any detours or side trips you may want to take. Have a great trip!

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