Welcome to Maine, the Pine Tree State! Known for its rugged coastline, picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and delicious seafood, Maine offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, this guide will help you navigate the best things to do in Maine, divided into sections based on nature, landmarks, culture, food, outdoor activities, shopping, entertainment, and nightlife.
Nature
1. Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park, located on Mount Desert Island, is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. The park offers breathtaking landscapes, including rocky shores, woodlands, and mountains. Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, provides stunning sunrise views.
Hiking is a popular activity in Acadia, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The Park Loop Road offers a scenic drive with numerous viewpoints, while Jordan Pond and Sand Beach are perfect spots for a relaxing picnic.
2. Baxter State Park
Home to Maine’s highest peak, Mount Katahdin, Baxter State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The park’s 200,000 acres offer a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. The Knife Edge Trail is a challenging yet rewarding hike with spectacular views.
Baxter State Park is known for its pristine wilderness and abundant wildlife, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. Canoeing on the park’s many lakes and ponds provides a peaceful way to explore the area’s natural beauty.
3. Moosehead Lake
Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine and a popular destination for boating, fishing, and wildlife watching. The lake’s crystal-clear waters and surrounding forests create a serene and picturesque setting.
Greenville, the largest town on the lake, offers various accommodations, restaurants, and outdoor activities. Take a scenic seaplane ride for a bird’s-eye view of the lake and the surrounding wilderness.
4. Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic homes, and scenic harbor. Goose Rocks Beach and Kennebunk Beach are popular spots for sunbathing and swimming.
The town’s picturesque streets are lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll along the harbor or a boat tour to explore the coastline and spot marine wildlife.
5. Portland Head Light
Located in Cape Elizabeth, Portland Head Light is Maine’s oldest lighthouse and one of its most photographed landmarks. The lighthouse, built in 1791, offers stunning views of the rocky coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.
The adjacent Fort Williams Park provides walking trails, picnic areas, and historical exhibits. The park’s cliff walk offers spectacular views of the lighthouse and the ocean, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
Landmarks
1. Old Port, Portland
The Old Port district in Portland is known for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant waterfront. The area is a hub for shopping, dining, and entertainment, with numerous boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
The Portland Observatory, a historic maritime signal tower, offers panoramic views of the city and the harbor. Take a walking tour to learn about the area’s history and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the waterfront.
2. Victoria Mansion
Victoria Mansion, also known as the Morse-Libby House, is a stunning example of Victorian architecture. Located in Portland, the mansion is a National Historic Landmark and offers guided tours of its beautifully preserved interiors.
The mansion’s lavish furnishings, ornate woodwork, and detailed frescoes provide a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the mid-19th century. The museum also hosts special events and exhibits throughout the year.
3. Wadsworth-Longfellow House
The Wadsworth-Longfellow House in Portland is the childhood home of the famous poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. The house, built in 1785, is a National Historic Landmark and offers guided tours that explore the life and works of Longfellow.
The house’s period furnishings and artifacts provide insight into the early American lifestyle. The adjacent Longfellow Garden is a peaceful retreat, with beautiful flower beds and shaded paths.
4. Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory
Fort Knox, located in Prospect, is one of the best-preserved military fortifications in New England. Built in the mid-19th century, the fort offers guided tours and historical exhibits.
The adjacent Penobscot Narrows Observatory, a 420-foot-tall observation tower, provides stunning 360-degree views of the Penobscot River and the surrounding landscape. The observatory is the tallest bridge observatory in the world and offers a unique perspective of Maine’s natural beauty.
5. Pemaquid Point Lighthouse
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, located in Bristol, is one of Maine’s most iconic lighthouses. Built in 1827, the lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the rocky coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.
The adjacent Fishermen’s Museum, housed in the lighthouse keeper’s cottage, provides exhibits on the area’s maritime history. The surrounding Pemaquid Point Park offers walking trails, picnic areas, and tidal pools to explore.
Culture
1. Portland Museum of Art
The Portland Museum of Art, located in downtown Portland, is the largest and oldest public art institution in Maine. The museum’s extensive collection includes works by American, European, and contemporary artists, as well as decorative arts and photography.
The museum’s diverse exhibitions and programs offer something for everyone, from art enthusiasts to families. The museum also hosts special events, lectures, and workshops throughout the year.
2. Maine Maritime Museum
Located in Bath, the Maine Maritime Museum offers a comprehensive look at the state’s maritime history. The museum’s exhibits cover shipbuilding, fishing, and nautical art, with a focus on Maine’s maritime heritage.
The museum’s campus includes historic shipyard buildings, a Victorian-era ship captain’s home, and a working boat shop. Take a boat tour along the Kennebec River to see Bath Iron Works, where modern naval ships are built.
3. Farnsworth Art Museum
The Farnsworth Art Museum, located in Rockland, showcases American art with a focus on Maine artists. The museum’s collection includes works by the Wyeth family, as well as paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 19th and 20th centuries.
The museum’s campus includes the Farnsworth Homestead, a historic house museum, and the Olson House, made famous by Andrew Wyeth’s painting “Christina’s World.” The museum offers rotating exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year.
4. Abbe Museum
The Abbe Museum, located in Bar Harbor, is dedicated to the history and culture of the Wabanaki, the indigenous people of Maine. The museum’s exhibits explore the rich traditions, art, and history of the Wabanaki tribes.
The museum offers educational programs, workshops, and special events that highlight Native American culture and heritage. The Abbe Museum’s collection includes artifacts, contemporary art, and multimedia exhibits.
5. Maine State Museum
The Maine State Museum, located in Augusta, offers a comprehensive look at the state’s history, culture, and natural environment. The museum’s exhibits cover a wide range of topics, from geology and wildlife to industry and everyday life.
The museum’s collection includes artifacts from Maine’s Native American tribes, early settlers, and industrial heritage. The museum offers educational programs, special exhibits, and hands-on activities for visitors of all ages.
Food
1. Lobster
Maine is famous for its lobster, and no visit is complete without indulging in this local delicacy. Lobster shacks and restaurants can be found along the coast, offering fresh, locally caught lobster prepared in a variety of ways.
Try a classic lobster roll, featuring chunks of lobster meat served in a buttered roll, or a traditional lobster bake, with steamed lobster, clams, corn, and potatoes. Popular spots include Red’s Eats in Wiscasset, The Lobster Shack at Two Lights in Cape Elizabeth, and Eventide Oyster Co. in Portland.
2. Blueberries
Maine is one of the largest producers of wild blueberries in the world, and these sweet berries are a staple of the state’s cuisine. Fresh blueberries are available in the summer, while blueberry products such as jams, pies, and baked goods are available year-round.
Visit a local farmers’ market or farm stand to sample fresh blueberries, or enjoy a slice of blueberry pie at a local diner. The annual Machias Wild Blueberry Festival celebrates the state’s blueberry harvest with food, music, and family-friendly activities.
3. Whoopie Pies
The whoopie pie is Maine’s official state treat, and it’s a must-try for visitors. This sweet dessert consists of two soft chocolate cake rounds filled with creamy frosting or marshmallow filling.
Whoopie pies can be found at bakeries and markets throughout the state. For a unique twist, try different flavors such as pumpkin, peanut butter, or red velvet. The annual Maine Whoopie Pie Festival in Dover-Foxcroft celebrates this beloved treat with samples, contests, and entertainment.
4. Craft Beer
Maine’s craft beer scene is thriving, with numerous breweries producing a wide range of unique and flavorful beers. Portland is a hub for craft brewing, with popular breweries such as Allagash Brewing Company, Bissell Brothers, and Rising Tide Brewing Company.
Take a brewery tour to learn about the brewing process and sample different styles of beer, from IPAs and stouts to sours and lag ers. Many breweries also offer food pairings, events, and live music.
5. Farm-to-Table Dining
Maine’s farm-to-table movement emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and seasonal cuisine. Many restaurants across the state partner with local farms, fisheries, and producers to create fresh, innovative dishes.
Portland is known for its vibrant dining scene, with acclaimed restaurants such as Fore Street, Central Provisions, and The Honey Paw. The state’s culinary offerings also include farm-to-table dining experiences at rural inns and farmstead restaurants.
Outdoor Activities
1. Hiking
Maine’s diverse landscapes offer a wide range of hiking opportunities, from coastal trails to mountain peaks. Acadia National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with trails such as the Precipice Trail, Jordan Pond Path, and Beehive Trail offering stunning views and varied terrain.
Baxter State Park’s Mount Katahdin is a challenging but rewarding hike, with the Knife Edge Trail providing breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness. The Appalachian Trail also passes through Maine, offering sections that range from moderate to strenuous.
2. Kayaking and Canoeing
Maine’s lakes, rivers, and coastline provide excellent opportunities for kayaking and canoeing. The Allagash Wilderness Waterway offers a remote and scenic paddling experience, with opportunities to spot wildlife and camp along the route.
Coastal kayaking allows you to explore Maine’s rugged shoreline, with guided tours available in areas such as Casco Bay, Bar Harbor, and Boothbay Harbor. Paddle through calm waters, explore hidden coves, and enjoy the beauty of Maine’s coastal landscapes.
3. Skiing and Snowboarding
Maine’s winters provide ample opportunities for skiing and snowboarding, with several ski resorts offering a range of slopes and trails. Sugarloaf, the largest ski resort in the state, offers diverse terrain, including challenging glades and groomed runs.
Sunday River is another popular resort, known for its extensive trail network and modern facilities. Smaller ski areas, such as Shawnee Peak and Saddleback Mountain, offer family-friendly skiing and snowboarding experiences.
4. Whale Watching
Maine’s coastal waters are home to a variety of marine life, including several species of whales. Whale watching tours depart from coastal towns such as Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor, and Portland, offering the chance to see humpback, finback, and minke whales, as well as dolphins and seals.
Tours typically operate from May to October, with peak whale watching season in the summer months. Experienced guides provide insights into the behavior and ecology of these majestic creatures.
5. Fishing
Maine’s rivers, lakes, and coastline offer excellent fishing opportunities, from fly fishing for trout and salmon to deep-sea fishing for cod and haddock. The Kennebec and Penobscot Rivers are popular destinations for fly fishing, while the lakes of the Moosehead Lake region are known for their abundant fish populations.
Charter a fishing boat for a deep-sea fishing adventure off the coast, or try your hand at ice fishing on one of Maine’s frozen lakes in the winter. Fishing licenses are required for both residents and non-residents, and regulations vary by region and season.
Shopping
1. L.L. Bean Flagship Store
Located in Freeport, the L.L. Bean Flagship Store is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The store is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and offers a wide range of outdoor gear, clothing, and accessories.
The flagship store’s campus includes several specialty shops, such as the Bike, Boat & Ski Store and the Home Store. Freeport’s charming downtown area is also home to numerous outlet stores, boutiques, and restaurants.
2. Old Port, Portland
The Old Port district in Portland is a bustling shopping area with cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and a variety of shops. Browse through unique boutiques, artisanal stores, and galleries offering everything from clothing and jewelry to home goods and local art.
The Old Port is also known for its vibrant food scene, with numerous cafes, bakeries, and restaurants to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll through the area, and don’t forget to visit the local farmers’ market for fresh produce and handmade goods.
3. Kittery Outlets
Located near the southern border of Maine, the Kittery Outlets offer a wide range of brand-name and designer stores at discounted prices. The outlets feature over 120 stores, including popular brands such as Nike, Coach, and J.Crew.
The Kittery Trading Post, a large outdoor and sporting goods store, is a highlight of the area. The outlets are a popular destination for both locals and visitors looking for great deals on clothing, accessories, and more.
4. Rockland and Camden
The coastal towns of Rockland and Camden offer charming shopping experiences with a mix of local boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. Rockland is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries showcasing the work of local artists.
Camden’s picturesque downtown area is home to unique shops offering clothing, jewelry, antiques, and nautical-themed gifts. Both towns offer a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making them perfect for a leisurely day of shopping.
5. Blue Hill Peninsula
The Blue Hill Peninsula is a haven for artists and artisans, with numerous galleries, studios, and shops offering handcrafted goods. The town of Blue Hill is known for its vibrant arts community, with galleries showcasing fine art, pottery, and jewelry.
Visit the annual Blue Hill Fair for a taste of local culture, with exhibits, crafts, and live entertainment. The peninsula’s scenic beauty and creative spirit make it a unique and inspiring shopping destination.
Entertainment
1. Maine State Music Theatre
Located in Brunswick, the Maine State Music Theatre offers professional musical theater productions from June to August. The theater’s diverse repertoire includes Broadway classics, contemporary musicals, and family-friendly shows.
The theater’s intimate setting and high-quality productions make it a popular destination for theater lovers. The adjacent Bowdoin College campus offers additional cultural attractions, including the Bowdoin College Museum of Art and the Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum.
2. Portland Stage
Portland Stage is a leading professional theater company in Maine, offering a diverse range of plays and performances throughout the year. The theater’s productions include contemporary dramas, classics, and new works by emerging playwrights.
Portland Stage also offers educational programs, workshops, and special events, making it a vibrant cultural hub in the city. The theater’s central location in downtown Portland provides easy access to dining and entertainment options.
3. Maine International Film Festival
The Maine International Film Festival, held annually in Waterville, showcases a diverse selection of independent and international films. The festival’s 10-day program includes screenings, panel discussions, and special events, attracting filmmakers and film enthusiasts from around the world.
The festival’s relaxed and friendly atmosphere provides a unique opportunity to discover new films and engage with the filmmakers. Waterville’s charming downtown area offers additional attractions, including shops, restaurants, and galleries.
4. Merrill Auditorium
Merrill Auditorium, located in Portland, is a historic venue that hosts a wide range of performances, including classical music, ballet, opera, and popular music concerts. The auditorium’s stunning architecture and excellent acoustics make it a premier destination for live entertainment.
The Portland Symphony Orchestra, Portland Ballet, and touring Broadway shows are regular fixtures at Merrill Auditorium. The venue’s central location in Portland’s arts district provides easy access to dining and cultural attractions.
5. Bayside Bowl
Bayside Bowl in Portland offers a unique entertainment experience with a mix of bowling, live music, and dining. The venue features 20 bowling lanes, a rooftop bar, and a concert venue that hosts a variety of live performances.
Bayside Bowl’s fun and lively atmosphere makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. Enjoy a game of bowling, catch a live show, or relax with a drink on the rooftop patio.
Nightlife
1. Old Port, Portland
The Old Port district in Portland is the heart of the city’s nightlife scene, with a wide range of bars, pubs, and clubs. Popular spots include The Thirsty Pig, known for its craft beer and sausages, and The Portland Hunt + Alpine Club, offering creative cocktails in a stylish setting.
The Old Port’s lively atmosphere and historic charm make it a great place to explore after dark. Whether you’re looking for a cozy pub, a trendy cocktail bar, or a lively dance club, you’ll find it here.
2. Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport offers a more relaxed and laid-back nightlife scene, with charming pubs, waterfront bars, and live music venues. The Ramp Bar & Grill, located on Cape Porpoise, is a popular spot for casual dining and drinks with stunning views of the harbor.
Kennebunkport’s quaint streets and scenic harbor provide a picturesque backdrop for an evening out. Enjoy a leisurely dinner, take a sunset cruise, or relax with a drink by the water.
3. Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor, located near Acadia National Park, offers a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, restaurants, and live music venues. The Thirsty Whale Tavern is a popular spot for casual dining and drinks, while Geddy’s offers a lively atmosphere with live music and karaoke.
Bar Harbor’s scenic beauty and friendly vibe make it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring. Take a stroll along the waterfront, enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, or catch a live performance.
4. Bangor
Bangor’s nightlife scene offers a variety of options, from lively bars and pubs to entertainment venues. The Penobscot Theatre Company offers live performances throughout the year, while Hollywood Casino provides gaming, dining, and live entertainment.
Bangor’s downtown area is home to several bars and restaurants, including Paddy Murphy’s, a popular Irish pub, and Nocturnem Draft Haus, known for its craft beer selection. The city’s welcoming atmosphere and diverse nightlife options make it a great place to spend an evening.
5. Freeport
Freeport offers a more low-key nightlife scene, with a focus on casual dining and local breweries. Gritty McDuff’s Brew Pub, located in the heart of Freeport, offers a selection of craft beers and pub fare in a relaxed setting.
The town’s charming streets and friendly vibe make it a great place for a quiet evening out. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, sample craft beer at a brewery, or take a leisurely stroll through the town.
Conclusion
Maine is a state that truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring its stunning natural landscapes, discovering its rich history and culture, savoring its delicious cuisine, engaging in outdoor adventures, indulging in retail therapy, enjoying live entertainment, or experiencing its diverse nightlife, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore all that the Pine Tree State has to offer!