Southern Maine Road Trip: 5 Quirky Roadside Attractions
With travel munchies and Siri’s pioneering guidance at the ready, you’ll be all set to embark on a journey through scenic Maine sights and attractions. Countless must-sees near Ogunquit means there’s always a new destination (or five) well worth the drive. Travel bug casualties ourselves, we’ve put together a route that loops from The Dunes for Maine road trip itinerary worthy of the Pine Tree State’s Vacationland title.
Stop #1: Old Orchard Beach
Set your GPS for: 18 E Grand Ave, Old Orchard Beach, ME 04064
First, head up Route One for about 35 minutes to reach Old Orchard Beach, an absolute must-visit for any lover of the sea. Walk along the pier, toss around a frisbee, or play some arcade games at the Beachfront Palace Playland Park, New England’s sole beachfront amusement park.
Stop #2: The Maine Mall
Set your GPS for: 364 Maine Mall Road, South Portland, ME 04106
Another 25 minutes northeast, you’ll end up at the state’s biggest galleria, The Maine Mall. This 1.2 million sq. ft shopping extravaganza contains over 140 stores to peruse, from apparel and shoes to a Build-a-Bear workshop. With plenty of dining options to grab & go, you’ll be back on the road again in no time (without the hassle of driving through Portland)!
Stop #3: Sebago Lake State Park
Set your GPS for: 11 Park Access Rd, Casco, ME 04015
Enjoy some time on the waterfront — this time, swapping out saltwater for fresh. Sebago Lake State Park offers a remote, serene getaway on the edge of Maine’s second largest lake. While you’re there, take your bikes out for a little cycling on park roads, head out on the water via canoe, or simply go swimming.
Stop #4: Santora Fine Art
Set your GPS for: 1230 S Waterboro Rd, Lyman, ME 04002
Head southbound from Sebago Lake and make a quick stop at Carol Santora’s fine art exhibit, a contemporary collection of acrylic and pastel animal paintings. Santora’s artwork of wildlife, farm animals, and housepets tells a soulful story about the connection between people and animals and draws guests from all over the country.
Stop #5: Mousam Way Walking Trail
Set your GPS for: 75 Emery St. Sanford, ME 04073
For the final stop on your southern Maine road trip, take a short hike on The Mousam Way Walking Trail in Sanford. The path follows the Mousam River downstream, through charming patches of woods and a 300-foot wooden footbridge over the wetlands.
Last stop: The Dunes on the Waterfront
Set your GPS for: 518 Main St., Ogunquit, ME 03907
Needless to say, there’s far more to do and see in Ogunquit and its surrounding areas, so if our Maine road trip itinerary doesn’t quite suit your fancy, there’s no need to worry. At The Dunes, we’d love to be your resident travel experts — ask us for more recommendations during your stay! After all, we all love a good road trip, but there’s nothing like having a homely place to return to.