Movie road trip: A cinematic site per state for all 50 states

Acadia Park, photo from Yelp

Maine: Cider House Rules

Maine has played backdrop to many movies. Stephen King fans know that Maine has served as the inspiration for many of his popular novels and movies. Bangor, Maine is considered Stephen King country. But, sometimes a more romantic movie road trip can be more fun. The Cider House Rules was filmed on Acadia National Park’s Sand Beach.

Based on the novel by John Irving, Cider House Rules tells the story of a young orphan and his journey through life. Although not formerly trained as an obstetrician, Homer has the skill and knowledge which he learned from the orphanage director. The story makes a full circle in the end. The iconic line from the movie, “Goodnight you Princes of Maine, you Kings of New England” makes it a good choice for Maine.

Sand Beach in Acadia Park is quite a picturesque location. While the beach itself a little small, it offers a lovely view of mountains and water. The beach is known for its shell fragments. Due to the changing tides, the surf breaks the shells and creates its unique features. The national park does charge an entrance fee.

Also in the film is Thurston’s Lobster Pound. This Bernard restaurant is a family-run seafood establishment. Featuring fresh-caught lobster and crab, the restaurant is located right on the water. Guests can watch boaters fish while they are eating.

The restaurant’s dock was briefly seen in the movie. But, this restaurant should not be missed. The only downside is that Thurston’s Lobster Pound is only open from Memorial Day through mid-October.