Discover coastal charm, wild landscapes, and unforgettable adventures across the Pine Tree State.
1. Explore Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is Maine’s crown jewel, offering granite peaks, oceanfront trails, and incredible fall foliage. Don’t miss Cadillac Mountain for sunrise views or the Precipice Trail for an adrenaline rush. Perfect for hikers, bikers, and families alike.
2. Eat a Classic Maine Lobster Roll
Savor buttery lobster rolls at legendary spots like Red’s Eats or The Clam Shack. Freshly caught, simply prepared, and often served with chips and a pickle—this is Maine on a plate.
3. Visit Portland’s Old Port District
Cobblestone streets meet gourmet eats in Portland’s Old Port. Shop indie boutiques, try local craft beer, and ferry out to Casco Bay islands. It’s Maine’s hippest historic neighborhood.
4. Tour the Lighthouses of Midcoast Maine
Snap photos at Marshall Point or walk the mile-long breakwater to Rockland Light. Midcoast Maine’s lighthouses offer stunning views and maritime history.
5. Cruise Casco Bay
Take a scenic cruise around Portland’s Casco Bay. Choose a sunset schooner sail or a working mailboat run. Keep an eye out for seals and historic forts!
6. Indulge in Wild Blueberry Everything
Visit in August to enjoy Maine’s famed wild blueberries. Try blueberry pie, muffins, or fresh berries from a pick-your-own farm. Wild Blueberry Weekend is a must-attend!
7. Ski or Hike Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf is a year-round playground. Ski its world-class slopes in winter or hike and bike through its lush trails come summer. Great for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.
8. Visit the Farnsworth Art Museum
Located in Rockland, the Farnsworth showcases Maine-inspired art, especially by the Wyeth family. Explore rotating exhibits and the nearby Wyeth Center for more cultural depth.
9. Walk the Marginal Way in Ogunquit
This 1.25-mile oceanfront path links Ogunquit and Perkins Cove. Enjoy wildflowers, tide pools, and breathtaking cliff views. Wheelchair accessible and utterly charming.
10. Visit Bar Harbor
Gateway to Acadia, Bar Harbor offers bustling shops, whale-watching tours, and walkable sandbars. It’s the perfect place to eat, shop, and explore the coast.
11. See the Desert of Maine
A sandy oddity in Freeport, the Desert of Maine is both quirky and educational. Take a guided tour, hunt for gems, and learn about land misuse’s lasting impact.
12. Paddle the Allagash Wilderness Waterway
Canoe through 92 miles of pristine wilderness in northern Maine. The Allagash offers true solitude, wildlife encounters, and backcountry camping for serious adventurers.
13. Attend the Maine Lobster Festival
Held every August in Rockland, this five-day festival celebrates lobster with food, music, and maritime fun. A summer highlight for foodies and families alike.
14. Hike Mount Katahdin
Tackle Maine’s tallest peak and the Appalachian Trail’s northern terminus. From Knife Edge to the Hunt Trail, Katahdin is rugged, rewarding, and unforgettable.
15. Enjoy a Scenic Drive on Route 1
Follow Route 1 up the coast for charming towns, sea views, and roadside seafood shacks. Stops in Camden, Damariscotta, and Belfast are essential.
16. Discover Monhegan Island
Reachable only by ferry, Monhegan is an artist’s haven with cliffs, galleries, and stunning hikes. Stay overnight to enjoy island quiet after the crowds leave.
17. Visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
This 300-acre garden in Boothbay offers nature trails, sculptures, and a butterfly house. Don’t miss Gardens Aglow during the holidays for dazzling lights.
18. Go Whale Watching in Boothbay Harbor
Spot humpbacks, finbacks, and puffins on a guided tour from Boothbay. The best season is late spring through early fall—bring binoculars and a windbreaker!
19. Visit Baxter State Park
Beyond Mount Katahdin, Baxter is a wilderness haven. Hike, fish, or camp among loons and moose in over 200,000 acres of protected forest
20. Relax at a Lakeside Cabin in the Belgrade Lakes
Rent a cozy cabin and enjoy kayaking, fishing, and starry nights by the fire. This inland region is peaceful, family-friendly, and absolutely stunning in fall.
