It turns out you can see the world without ever leaving Maine!
Europeans might be confused when they see the signpost on the intersection of Route 35 and Route 5 in Bethel, Maine. It reads that Paris is just 15 miles in one direction, while China is 94 miles in the other direction. No, the sign wasn't created as a joke. It indicates how far you are to these Maine towns!
Maine has almost 500 towns, and many of them are named after foreign countries, like the ones you see on the World Traveler's Sign. Why is that? Well according to this article by Maine Public, many settlers named the land after the town in Europe they originated from. Hence why so many Maine towns bear international names.
The sign has become a tourist destination drawing visitors from all over the world, including people from the actual countries found on the World Traveler's Sign. When you visit make sure you check out the guest book and leave a message for future visitors!
How to get there from here:
The sign itself doesn't have a physical address so you won't find the "World Traveler's Sign" in your GPS. Instead type in 1 Birch View Drive, Bethel, ME, 04217. This road is the last road before you get to the signpost. The sign itself is on the intersection between Route 35 (Valley Road) and Route 5 (Crooked River Causeway). There isn't a designated parking area near the sign, but there is plenty of room to pull off the main road.
What to do nearby:
There is not much to do in the nearby town of Lynchville, but you will drive through a few quaint towns that are worth a visit. The route to the sign sends you right through the town of Harrison, which has a old-fashioned downtown that is worth a walk around. Otherwise, check off one of the cities on the sign by visiting the town of Naples, which is only five minutes out of the way. Not only is there a gorgeous marina, but you can also partake in various water sports on the causeway such a jet skiing or kayaking. Later head over to Rick's Cafe to grab a bite to eat and watch the sunset over Long Lake. You could also wrap up your evening with a showing at the Bridgeton Drive-In, only 10 minutes away.
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