Ellsworth
Ellsworth
Brunswick
Brunswick
Train Driving

Ellsworth to Brunswick

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Ellsworth to Brunswick covers 175 kilometers. You can drive via US-1 and I-295, which takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive to Portland and connect to the Amtrak Downeaster train service, though this is less direct. Brunswick is a vibrant college town and a major transportation hub in mid-coast Maine. This route is well-traveled and offers a mix of coastal scenery and highway efficiency.

Total Distance: 175 km driving distance, 140 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Driving via I-295 is the fastest way to reach Brunswick.
Cheapest Way
Driving your own vehicle is the most cost-effective method.
Compare Ellsworth to Brunswick Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 4 hours (including drive to Portland) 2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price $40-$60 $25-$35 in fuel
Operator Amtrak Downeaster Personal Vehicle
Route Drive to Portland Station, then train to Brunswick US-1 South to I-295 South
Tip The train is comfortable but requires a car connection from Ellsworth. I-295 is the most efficient way to bypass coastal traffic.
Travel Tips
  • Parking
    Public parking is available throughout downtown Brunswick.
  • Traffic
    I-295 can be busy during morning and evening rush hours near Portland.
  • Dining
    Brunswick has a diverse food scene; try the local cafes near the college.
  • Train Travel
    If taking the train, book your Amtrak tickets in advance for better pricing.
  • Navigation
    Use a GPS to navigate the transition from US-1 to I-295.
Safety Tips
  • Driving
    Be alert for merging traffic on I-295.
  • Weather
    Winter driving on I-295 requires caution due to ice and snow.
  • Emergency
    Keep a roadside emergency kit in your vehicle.
  • Pedestrians
    Watch for students crossing the streets near the college campus.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a train to Brunswick?
    Yes, the Amtrak Downeaster serves Brunswick.
  • How long is the drive?
    It takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes.
  • Is it a college town?
    Yes, it is home to Bowdoin College.
  • Are there tolls?
    No, this route does not involve toll roads.
  • Can I fly?
    No, there is no commercial airport in Brunswick.
Quick Info
  • From Ellsworth, Maine, United States
  • To Brunswick, Maine, United States
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

May or September for pleasant weather and campus activities.

Things to Do in Brunswick
1
Bowdoin College
Walk the beautiful campus and visit the Bowdoin College Museum of Art.
2
Maine State Music Theatre
Catch a professional musical performance during the summer season.
3
Androscoggin River
Enjoy the walking paths along the river for a relaxing afternoon.
4
Downtown Brunswick
Explore the local shops and cafes along Maine Street.
Tags
Ellsworth to Brunswick travel driving to Brunswick train to Brunswick Maine travel guide Ellsworth to Brunswick distance Brunswick Maine transport Amtrak Downeaster Maine road trip