ExploringMaine.com
Transportation
Yes, you can get there from here - or vice versa. There are lots of ways to get here. And once you are in Maine, there are plenty of different ways to get around.Construction Delays
Deer Isle-Sedgwick Bridge Project:
Only one lane of the bridge is open during construction.Bangor Area Highway & Bridge Projects: Several projects are under way.
The Maine Turnpike
There are two primary interstates in Maine: Interstate 95 and Interstate 295. I-95 crosses the Piscataquis River from Portsmouth to Kittery. I-295 starts in South Portland, swings around the northwest side of Portland, goes through Lewiston/Auburn and hits I-95 in Gardiner. The exit numbers are based upon mileage from the beginning of the highway. Generally tolls are collected when you enter the Turnpike and two plazas on I-95. There are no tolls on I-295.
Airports
The two main airports are in Portland and Bangor, but New Hampshire's Manchester Airport and Portsmouth International Airport are only about an hour drive to Portland. Small airports often have charter air services and many provide transportation to the islands or offer scenic flights.
List of smaller airports in Maine
Boats & Ferries
Whether you need transportation or merely a pleasant ride on the ocean, boats and ferries are one of the best ways to get around in Maine. There are many different companies, both private and state-owned, that offer a network of services throughout the coastal regions of Maine and even into Canada. Prices, schedules and the need for reservations vary throughout the season, so it is best to check ahead of time. Many boats have vehicle capacity, while and most also welcome pets and bicycles with their accompanying passengers. Travel by ferry
The Downeaster
Amtrak runs between Boston and Portland several times daily. To get times and more information, check the Downeaster site. You can make reservations and buy tickets on Amtrak's site or by calling 1-800-USA-RAIL (1-800-872-7245). When making reservations online, be sure to select "Boston North Station (BON), MASSACHUSETTS" for the departure station.The stations:
Portland The train terminal is part of the Concord-Trailways bus station near the Congress Street exit of I-295. There are ticketing agents at the terminal. Parking is $2 per day. Tickets can be purchased at the terminal. Old Orchard Beach The town has a train platform within walking distance of the boardwalk and beach. Saco The station is on Factory Island on the south side of the railroad tracks. Parking is free. There are no ticketing agents but tickets can be purchased on the train. Wells The Wells Transportation Center is located on Rt. 109, opposite the Exit 2 toll booth of the Maine Turnpike. The Web site: The Northern New England Passenger Rail Authority has a Web site with information about the route, each stop along the way, the trains, the fares and schedules, and more: www.thedowneaster.com