Roaming Coastal Maine featuring Portland, Acadia & Penobscot Bay - Alternative

Welcome to Maine, a “Vacationland” of intricate coastlines and all-encompassing natural beauty that serves as the perfect getaway. From charming towns and scenic ocean overlooks to oyster shucking and lobster hauling, experience the best of this New England retreat. Due to varied arrival times, there are no scheduled activities today and dinner will be on your own.

Discover the essence of this vibrant harbor city by means of a true New England classic - a trolley. From the opulent Victoria Mansion to the hum of the Old Port, your guide will introduce you to Portland’s hidden gems. Trade in the charming streets of the city for the rugged coastline, stopping at the picturesque Portland Head Light. After some free time for lunch, experience the view from the sea of the iconic lighthouses and sights of the harbor on a scenic cruise. Tonight, dine at a local restaurant with your fellow travelers.

This morning, get an intimate look with an exclusive visit to a working oyster farm* and learn how to dig into these local delicacies with an oyster shucking demonstration. Continue along the Maine coast before settling into your waterfront inn just outside Camden - a peaceful setting with sweeping views of Penobscot Bay. This evening, explore Camden’s boutiques and diverse array of restaurants as you wish.

Journey out to Acadia National Park for the day, where you’ll breathe in the crisp, fresh air and allow the nature around you to captivate your senses on a privately guided tour. Admire the striking mountains, towering forests, and rocky shorelines as you drive scenic Park Loop Road with a local guide. Take in the sweeping views from the summit of Cadillac Mountain. Later this afternoon, arrive in Bar Harbor, an iconic coastal destination known for its sparkling blue waters and lively waterfront. Take time to explore its charming downtown, where inviting boutiques, cozy cafés, and classic seaside shops line the streets. Enjoy time on your own to relax and savor an early dinner at one of the town’s many local restaurants before departing back to your hotel later this evening.

Today, your scenic journey takes you back down the Maine coast. Begin the day on the water with a lobster experience, learning the traditions of Maine’s iconic fishery as traps are hauled. Then, complete the experience with a lobster roll at a laid-back seafood shack. Next, it’s your choice between two local museums. Explore Maine’s role in American art at the Farnsworth Art Museum -OR- discover antique automobiles and more at the Owls Head Transportation Museum. Then, treat your palate again during an Impact Moment at the Maine Tasting Center. Here, try a variety of Maine’s iconic foods such as blueberries, seaweed, potatoes, and more during a private, guided tasting, and learn about the hardworking locals behind these specialties. Later, arrive in Freeport, your home for the next two nights. Enjoy an evening at leisure.

This morning, enter the natural wonderland of Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, nearly 300 acres of grassy fields and woodland trails overflowing with floral hues. Join a local expert for an informative walk-through or perhaps, if you’re feeling more active, go on a self-guided hike to find the giant hidden trolls in the garden’s wooded trails. These magical trolls stand up to 30 feet tall and were constructed using recycled wood. This afternoon, enjoy some free time in Boothbay browsing this quaint, seaside town’s cute shops and restaurants. Tonight, toast to the end of your trip and bid Maine farewell over dinner.

Your tour of coastal Maine comes to a close today.