Bar Harbor to Hudson, NY Road Trip Guide

Route 1 south out of Bar Harbor passes through the only national park in the Northeast, Acadia, whose granite peaks were shaped by glaciers 18,000 years ago. The drive to Hudson, NY stretches roughly 400 miles and takes about 7–8 hours of pure driving time, but the real journey unfolds along the coastal bends and river valleys. This guide unpacks every mile, from lobster shacks to covered bridges, ensuring you don’t miss the best stops Bar Harbor, ME to Hudson, NY.

Begin on ME-3 to US-1, then I-95 south. Fuel economy averages 25 mpg; expect gas stations every 30–50 miles along the interstates, but sparse in rural Maine. Tolls on I-95 in New Hampshire and Massachusetts cost around $20 total using E-ZPass. Rest areas are well-marked, with the Kennebunk Rest Area (mile 32) featuring picnic tables and EV charging. Learn how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities to optimize your journey.

• ME-3 to US-1: 20 miles, scenic coastal views
• I-95 south: 380 miles, high-speed with tolls
• Alternate US-1: 430 miles, slower but charming

Acadia National Park offers Cadillac Mountain, the first sunrise spot in the US from October to March. South of Bar Harbor, US-1 hugs the coast past lighthouses like Portland Head Light. In Massachusetts, detour to Salem for witch trial history. Hudson itself is an antiques hub, with over 75 shops along Warren Street.

• Acadia: Park Loop Road, 27 miles of ocean views
• Portland: Old Port district for boutiques and seafood
• Salem: Peabody Essex Museum and maritime heritage

I-95 is well-maintained but can be congested near Boston; allow extra time. Family-friendly stops include the Maine Wildlife Park (Gray, ME) and the Boston Children’s Museum. For pets, rest areas on I-95 in Massachusetts have designated pet-walking areas. Fatigue management: plan for a break every 2 hours. The Kennebunk Rest Area and the Merrimack Rest Area (NH) have coffee and snacks.

• Family: York's Wild Kingdom Zoo, Kittery, ME
• Pet-friendly: Freeport, ME has outdoor seating at LL Bean
• Rest zones: Seabrook Rest Area (NH), Charlton Rest Area (MA)