Planning a Trip to Maine: Must-See Destinations

9 min readJul 12, 2024

Maine, the northeasternmost state in the United States, is known for its stunning natural beauty, charming coastal towns, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, historical sites, or simply a peaceful retreat, Maine has something to offer. If you’re planning a trip to Maine, this guide will help you explore the must-see destinations that make this state so unique and captivating.

1. Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is one of the crown jewels of Maine. Located on Mount Desert Island, this park offers a diverse landscape of mountains, forests, and coastline. Some highlights include:

Cadillac Mountain: The highest point on the East Coast, Cadillac Mountain is a must-visit for breathtaking sunrise views.
Jordan Pond: A serene spot for hiking and picnicking, with clear waters and scenic trails.
Park Loop Road: A 27-mile scenic drive that offers spectacular views of the park’s natural beauty.
Sand Beach: A picturesque beach perfect for a relaxing day by the water.

Acadia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, biking, bird-watching, and more. Be sure to bring your camera, as the photo opportunities are endless.

2. Portland

Portland, Maine’s largest city, is a bustling hub of culture, food, and history. Here are some must-see spots in Portland:

Old Port: This historic district features cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and a variety of restaurants and bars.
Portland Head Light: Located in Fort Williams Park, this iconic lighthouse is one of the most photographed in the United States.
Eastern Promenade: A beautiful park offering stunning views of Casco Bay, perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.
Portland Museum of Art: Home to an impressive collection of American and European art, including works by Winslow Homer and Andrew Wyeth.

Portland’s vibrant food scene is also a highlight. From fresh seafood to innovative cuisine, the city’s restaurants are sure to delight your taste buds.

3. Bar Harbor

Just outside Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is a charming town known for its quaint streets, seaside views, and vibrant atmosphere. Some highlights include:

Shore Path: A scenic walking path along the waterfront, offering beautiful views of Frenchman Bay.
Bar Island: Accessible at low tide, you can walk across the sandbar to explore this small island.
Whale Watching Tours: Bar Harbor is a great place to embark on a whale-watching adventure, with tours available throughout the summer months.
Main Street: Lined with shops, galleries, and eateries, Main Street is the heart of Bar Harbor.

Bar Harbor is also a gateway to Acadia National Park, making it a convenient base for exploring the area.

4. Camden

Often referred to as the “Jewel of the Maine Coast,” Camden is a picturesque town that offers stunning views and a charming downtown area. Key attractions include:

Camden Hills State Park: Home to Mount Battie, which offers panoramic views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay.
Camden Harbor: A beautiful spot for a stroll, with sailboats and schooners dotting the waters.
Curtis Island Lighthouse: Accessible by boat or kayak, this lighthouse is a historic and scenic landmark.
High Street Historic District: Featuring well-preserved 19th-century architecture, this area is perfect for a leisurely walk.

Camden’s blend of natural beauty and small-town charm makes it a must-visit destination in Maine.

5. Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is known for its historic charm and beautiful coastal scenery. It’s a favorite summer destination with plenty to see and do:

Dock Square: The center of town, filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Gooch’s Beach: A popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, with soft sand and gentle waves.
Walker’s Point: The summer home of the Bush family, visible from Ocean Avenue.
Seashore Trolley Museum: The world’s oldest and largest museum dedicated to electric streetcars.

Kennebunkport offers a perfect blend of relaxation and activity, making it an ideal spot for a coastal getaway.

6. Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is another gem on the Maine coast, known for its picturesque harbor and vibrant arts scene. Highlights include:

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens: A stunning display of native and exotic plants, with walking trails and beautiful gardens.
Boothbay Railway Village: A living history museum with vintage trains, antique cars, and historic buildings.
Burnt Island Light: Accessible by boat, this historic lighthouse offers tours and beautiful views.
Maine State Aquarium: Featuring local marine life, touch tanks, and interactive exhibits.

Boothbay Harbor’s combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions makes it a must-see destination.

7. Rockland

Rockland is known for its vibrant arts scene and maritime heritage. Some must-visit attractions include:

Farnsworth Art Museum: Featuring an extensive collection of American art, including works by the Wyeth family.
Maine Lighthouse Museum: Home to the largest collection of lighthouse artifacts and memorabilia in the country.
Rockland Breakwater Light: A scenic walk along the breakwater leads to this historic lighthouse.
Project Puffin Visitor Center: Learn about Maine’s puffin population and conservation efforts.

Rockland is also home to the annual Maine Lobster Festival, celebrating the state’s famous seafood with events, contests, and, of course, delicious lobster.

8. Bangor

Bangor, located along the Penobscot River, offers a mix of cultural attractions and natural beauty. Highlights include:

Stephen King’s House: The famous author’s Victorian mansion is a popular attraction for fans.
Cole Land Transportation Museum: Featuring a collection of historic vehicles and transportation artifacts.
Bangor City Forest: A beautiful spot for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing.
Penobscot River Walkway: A scenic trail along the river, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Bangor’s combination of history, culture, and outdoor activities makes it a great destination for travelers.

9. Ogunquit

Ogunquit, meaning “beautiful place by the sea” in the Abenaki language, lives up to its name with stunning coastal views and a charming village atmosphere. Key attractions include:

Marginal Way: A scenic coastal path offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Ogunquit Beach: A wide, sandy beach perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Perkins Cove: A quaint fishing village with shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants.
Ogunquit Playhouse: A historic theater offering high-quality performances and musicals.

Ogunquit’s combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions makes it a must-visit destination.

10. York

York is one of Maine’s oldest towns, offering a mix of historic sites and beautiful beaches. Highlights include:

York Beach: A popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing.
Nubble Lighthouse: One of the most photographed lighthouses in the country, located on Cape Neddick.
Old York Historical Society: Featuring historic buildings, museums, and exhibits.
Mount Agamenticus: Offering hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding area.

York’s blend of history and natural beauty makes it a fascinating destination for travelers.

11. Freeport

Freeport is known for its outlet shopping and outdoor activities. Key attractions include:

L.L. Bean Flagship Store: Open 24/7, this iconic store offers a wide range of outdoor gear and apparel.
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park: A beautiful spot for hiking, bird-watching, and picnicking.
Desert of Maine: A unique natural phenomenon with guided tours and educational exhibits.
Freeport Village Station: A shopping complex featuring a variety of outlets and restaurants.

Freeport’s combination of shopping and outdoor activities makes it a popular destination for visitors.

12. Rangeley

Rangeley is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering stunning landscapes and a variety of recreational activities. Highlights include:

Rangeley Lake: A beautiful spot for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Saddleback Mountain: Offering skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and hiking and mountain biking in the summer.
Height of Land: A scenic overlook offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lakes.
Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway: A picturesque drive showcasing the region’s natural beauty.

Rangeley’s outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery make it a must-visit destination.

13. Bethel

Bethel, known as “Maine’s Most Beautiful Mountain Village,” offers a mix of outdoor activities and small-town charm. Key attractions include:

Sunday River Resort: A popular ski resort offering a variety of winter and summer activities.
Grafton Notch State Park: Featuring hiking trails, waterfalls, and stunning vistas.
Bethel Historical Society: Showcasing the town’s rich history through exhibits and programs.
Moses Mason House: A historic home offering guided tours and educational exhibits.

Bethel’s combination of outdoor adventures and historical attractions makes it a great destination for travelers.

14. Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake is the largest lake in Maine, offering a serene and scenic escape for nature lovers. Highlights include:

Moose Watching Tours: Guided tours offering the chance to see moose in their natural habitat.
Lily Bay State Park: A beautiful spot for camping, hiking, and boating.
Mount Kineo: Offering hiking trails and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Moosehead Marine Museum: Featuring exhibits on the region’s maritime history and the historic steamship Katahdin.

Moosehead Lake’s combination of natural beauty and outdoor activities makes it a must-see destination.

15. Sebago Lake

Sebago Lake is the second largest lake in Maine, offering a variety of recreational opportunities. Key attractions include:

Sebago Lake State Park: A popular spot for camping, swimming, and boating.
Point Sebago Resort: Offering a variety of activities, including golf, tennis, and water sports.
Songo River Queen II: A replica paddle-wheeler offering scenic cruises on the lake.
Jordan Bay: A beautiful spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.

Sebago Lake’s combination of outdoor activities and beautiful scenery makes it a great destination for travelers.

16. Brunswick

Brunswick is a charming town known for its historic sites and vibrant arts scene. Highlights include:

Bowdoin College: A prestigious liberal arts college with beautiful grounds and museums.
Maine State Music Theatre: Offering high-quality performances and musicals.
Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum: Featuring exhibits on Arctic exploration and the work of Admiral Robert Peary.
Skolfield-Whittier House: A historic home offering guided tours and educational exhibits.

Brunswick’s combination of history, culture, and education makes it a fascinating destination for visitors.

17. Bath

Bath, known as the “City of Ships,” offers a rich maritime history and beautiful coastal scenery. Key attractions include:

Maine Maritime Museum: Featuring exhibits on the state’s shipbuilding history and maritime heritage.
Bath Iron Works: Offering guided tours of one of the nation’s leading shipyards.
South End Park: A scenic spot along the Kennebec River, perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.
Chocolate Church Arts Center: Offering a variety of performances and cultural events.

Bath’s blend of maritime history and cultural attractions makes it a must-visit destination.

18. Blue Hill

Blue Hill is a picturesque town known for its arts community and natural beauty. Highlights include:

Blue Hill Mountain: Offering hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding area.
Blue Hill Co-op: A community-owned market featuring local foods and products.
Kneisel Hall: A historic music school offering concerts and performances.
Blue Hill Falls: A beautiful spot for kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing.

Blue Hill’s combination of natural beauty and cultural attractions makes it a great destination for travelers.

19. Mount Desert Island

Mount Desert Island, home to Acadia National Park, offers stunning landscapes and charming villages. Key attractions include:

Somes Sound: A beautiful fjord offering boating, kayaking, and scenic views.
Bass Harbor Head Light: A historic lighthouse offering guided tours and beautiful views.
Northeast Harbor: A picturesque village featuring shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Seal Cove Auto Museum: Featuring a collection of antique cars and motorcycles.

Mount Desert Island’s combination of natural beauty and charming villages makes it a must-see destination.

20. Portland’s Cool Bars

No trip to Maine is complete without exploring the vibrant bar scene in Portland. The city offers a variety of cool bars in Portland, Maine, each with its own unique atmosphere and charm. Some favorites include:

Novare Res Bier Café: Known for its extensive beer selection and cozy outdoor patio.
The Thirsty Pig: Offering craft beers and delicious sausages in a casual setting.
Portland Hunt + Alpine Club: A stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Great Lost Bear: Featuring a wide range of craft beers and a lively, eclectic vibe.

Conclusion

These bars are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring Maine’s must-see destinations. And if you’re looking to extend your adventures beyond Portland, consider exploring the many outdoor activities in Massachusetts. From hiking and biking to kayaking and skiing, Massachusetts offers a wide range of outdoor experiences that are perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Whether you’re enjoying the nightlife in Portland or the great outdoors in Massachusetts, there’s always something exciting to discover in this beautiful region.