Driving on Interstate 95 from Portsmouth, New Hampshire to Portland, Maine
The drive on Interstate 95 (I-95) from Portsmouth, New Hampshire, to Portland, Maine, is a picturesque journey that takes you through some of the most scenic and historically rich regions of New England. This route, stretching approximately 50 miles, weaves through the coastal plains of southeastern New Hampshire and southern Maine, offering travelers a blend of charming seaside towns, dense forests, and glimpses of the Atlantic Ocean.
Almost immediately after merging onto I-95, you’ll cross the Piscataqua River Bridge, a significant structure that spans the river, marking the border between New Hampshire and Maine. This steel bridge is an impressive sight, especially at sunrise or sunset, when the sun casts a golden glow over the river below. The Piscataqua River itself is a tidal estuary, with strong currents that have historically made it a vital waterway for shipping and trade.
As you cross the bridge, the views on either side are breathtaking. To the east, you might catch a glimpse of the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, located on Seavey Island. The shipyard has a long history, dating back to 1800, and is one of the oldest continuously operating naval shipyards in the United States. To the west, the river winds its way inland, surrounded by the dense woods and marshlands that are typical of this region.
Welcome to Maine: Entering Kittery
After crossing the Piscataqua River Bridge, you officially enter Maine, the “Pine Tree State.” The first town you encounter is Kittery, known as the gateway to Maine. Kittery is famous for its outlet malls, attracting shoppers from all over New England, but it also has a rich history and a picturesque coastline.
The landscape immediately feels different as you enter Maine. The highway is flanked by tall pine trees, giving a sense of entering a more natural and less developed region. The air is often crisp and fresh, particularly in the early morning, and there’s a feeling of leaving behind the busier, more congested areas of southern New Hampshire and entering a quieter, more serene environment.
As you drive through Kittery on I-95, the highway is well-maintained, with smooth asphalt and clear signage. The road here is a four-lane divided highway, with two lanes in each direction. Traffic is usually moderate, though it can pick up during peak tourist seasons, particularly in the summer when visitors flock to Maine’s beaches and coastal towns.
The Yorks: A Quintessential Coastal Experience
Continuing north on I-95, the next major towns you pass are the Yorks, including York Village, York Harbor, York Beach, and Cape Neddick. These towns are some of Maine’s most popular summer destinations, known for their beautiful beaches, historic sites, and classic New England charm.
While I-95 bypasses the center of these towns, the exits for York are well-marked, and it’s worth considering a detour if time allows. York Village is home to the Old York Historical Society, where you can explore buildings dating back to the 1600s, including a historic jail and a schoolhouse. York Beach offers a more lively atmosphere with its sandy beaches, amusement parks, and oceanfront restaurants.
One of the most iconic landmarks near York is the Nubble Lighthouse, located on Cape Neddick. Though not visible from I-95, the lighthouse is a short drive from the highway and is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States. The sight of the lighthouse perched on a rocky island, surrounded by crashing waves, is quintessentially Maine.
Back on I-95, the highway continues to offer a smooth and scenic drive. The landscape is dominated by dense forests, with occasional breaks in the trees that reveal glimpses of rolling hills and, occasionally, the distant ocean. The road is relatively straight, with gentle curves and slight elevation changes that add interest to the drive without being challenging.
Wells and Ogunquit: Coastal Beauty and Artistic Heritage
Further along I-95, you’ll pass the exits for Wells and Ogunquit. These towns are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and vibrant arts scenes. Wells, known as the “Antiques Capital of Maine,” is a great place to explore antique shops, art galleries, and historic sites.
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