This Roadside Attraction In Maine Is Perfect For Folks Who Won't Be Traveling For Awhile
By Michelle|Published September 21, 2020
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Michelle
Author
Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
These days we’ve been spending a lot of our time here in Maine. Of course, we’ve had a few fun road trips through New England, but for the most part, we’ve been exploring the local roads around us. It’s been fun, but we can’t help but be a little nostalgic for the days of travel. When getting on a plane or even going on a much longer road trip to other parts of the country was an option. If you’re also missing the days when traveling was just a bit easier, you might want to visit this roadside attraction that makes the world feel a little bit closer.
Like a lot of us, if you're missing the feeling you get when you're traveling to a far-off place, you might just need to take a trip to the western mountains of the Bethel/Lynchville area.
Located at the side of the road where Route 5 joins Route 35 there's a very curious sign telling visitors that they can travel to China in just 94 miles. Norway? A mere 14 miles away! But how?
While most people might assume the towns were named after homes left behind, the reality is a bit different. The people who ended up in America were often celebrating their independence. For instance, Denmark was named as a show of support for the country when the British navy attacked Copenhagen in 1807.
Of course, the names aren't all the result of pride. One was a simple misunderstanding. Norway was meant to be either Norwich or Norage, but some confusion led it to be recorded as Norway in 1797. Either way, we love it!
If you can't see them all, simply make your way to the sign and live out your travel dreams without the need for a passport.
You can learn more about the World Traveler Signpost by visiting the official Maine Tourism website. Have you seen it? How many selfies did you take? Be honest!