Labor Day Weekend in New England

Labor Day weekend in Stonington, Maine. Think about it. Stonington is a beautiful 6 hour drive north of Boston. The first couple of hours are all highway on I-95 and I-295. Make sure to make a quick stop in Freeport, Maine for the home of LLBean and a quick lobster roll. Or my personal favorite - stop in Kennebunkport and have a crab roll or lobster roll on the waterfront at the Clam Shack. Park wherever you can and walk around the few blocks of t-shirts shops and souvenir shops. A store not to be missed however is Carrots & Co for some of the most beautiful New England local souvenirs and knick knacks. Another personal favorite is Scalawags for dog supplies and toys. I stop at both on every trip to Maine.

After a short break, continue heading up the coast and leave the highway just north of Augusta. From there the drive to Stonington is a meandering two lane highway through small towns and ocean views. This trip could take 10 hours if I was willing to stop at all the cute stores and restaurants. Make sure you have a GPS or good directions as the road signs are a little confusing. Eventually, you will reach your final bridge signalling your entry onto the island and Deer Isle and eventually Stonington at water's edge.

Stonington is one of the largest lobster ports on the eastern seaboard and after you've had lobster from Stonington, you won't want it from anywhere else. A short drive back over the bridge and around the waterfront is Castine, a lovely town rich in history and home to the Maine Maritime Academy and the ship State of Maine. The most wonderful seafood lunch can be had right at the shack on the dock and don't forget to order some of Gifford's Blueberry ice cream for dessert.


Stonington is also rich in history and pink granite. This beautiful granite has been used in historical locations all over our country and can be found all over Stonington. Take some time to go to the quarry or buy small pieces at local antique shops and souvenir shops. There is a statue on the waterfront in honor of the history of the granite industry in Stonington.