best places to visit maine in july

Maine in July: 25+ Summer Things to Do, Weather & More

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If you visit Maine in July, you won’t be disappointed! The weather in July is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and camping. You can also explore this stunning New England coastline and visit some of the most picturesque towns in the United States.

We love Maine, & my experience having traveled around the world since I was 13, & planning trips for family, friends and solo, give me a unique perspective on finding the best things to do, where to eat & places to stay no matter where we roam.

We’ll give you a guide to all our favourite & the best summer things to do in Maine , plus tips for weather, popular events, where to stay & more. Great for families, friends, or couples looking for a true Downeast adventure.

Ready for your Maine summer vacation? Let’s go!

Table of Contents

Maine Weather in July

July is a great time to visit Maine and enjoy a bit of warm summer weather.

• Average temperature: During the day temperatures ranges the mid-70s to low 80s °F (23-28 °C). Though they can get up to the 90’s.
• Cooler times: Nights, early morning hikes or late-night stargazing tend to be cooler, with temperatures dropping to the mid-50s to low 60s °F (12-17 °C). Just be sure to bring a light jacket.
• Average rainfall : About 3″, depending on the region.

Depending on where you are in Maine, temperatures may be higher or lower due to regional differences. Coastal areas can be cooler than inland areas because of the sea breeze. Conditions can change rapidly on the coast & in mountainous areas, so bring & wear layers.

25+ Best Things To Do In Maine In July (& the Summer)

The beautiful state of Maine is alive with visitors, attractions & outdoor areas to explore in summer. There’s so much to see and do for all ages.

Just be aware that summer is peak season for Maine , so hotels, food and attractions tend to be more crowded and expensive. Book oceanfront hotels & lodging well ahead . On the plus side, everything is open, and sailing & whale watching excursions are running.

Renting a car in Maine is essential if you plan on driving the coast, seeing multiple lighthouses, or want flexibility during your trip. Especially with kids. 

Must-visit Coastal Towns

1. explore bar harbor, maine in july.

Summertime in Bar Harbor is the perfect time to explore all of the beautiful sights and attractions that this beautiful Maine coastal town has to offer. Plus this Acadia nearby is one of the best things to do in Maine.

Besides the usual suspects such as wander the quaint downtown area & main street, grab an ice cream at Mount Desert Ice Cream or Ben & Bill’s Chocolate Emporium. Or cross the Land Bridge to Bar Island.

There are a few things to do in Bar Harbor, Maine in July not to miss:

• Fourth of July Celebrations – kick off the day with a pancake breakfast, followed by lobster races, music, family activities, craft fairs, seafood festival & fireworks. Avoid the crowds with a special fireworks cruise hosted by Acadia Nature Cruises.
• Boat Tour – Take a Tall Ship Cruise out on the Harbor, a whale watching tour to see these majestic creatures or try Ed’s Dive-In Theatre for the Kids, it’s a hoot.
• Bar Harbor Music Festival (end of June into July annually) – for over 50 years this live music festival has happened. Introducing musical styles from classical, jazz, opera to music lovers of all ages.
• Movies in the Park – Wednesday evenings take in a movie at Agamont Park. They start at dusk (around 8:15 pm), but stake your spot with a blanket early (we suggest around 4 p.m.)

⭐️ Where to Stay in Bar Harbor:

• Best Bar Harbor Hotels with Pools
• Pet Friendly Hotels
• Best places to stay in Bar Harbor for families, couples & any visitor

2. Visit Acadia National Park in July

July is one of the best times to visit and explore the beautiful Acadia National Park! Just down the road from Bar Harbor.

With its stunning views, sunsets, diverse wildlife, and endless activities, you’ll be sure to be busy from sun up to sun down.

From scenic hikes to incredible sunsets, here are five of the best things to do in Acadia National Park in July :

• Take a hike or three – Walk the Ocean Path Trail or Wonderland Trail (easy & kid-friendly), or the cliff side Bee Hive Trail.
• Night Hike up Cadillac Mountain – As it’s still light out until about 9pm, a night hike may just be the thing to do mid summer. (Take the North Ridge Trail from Park Loop Road)
• Head to the Beach – Make plans for a Beach Day. There are plenty of Acadia Beaches to enjoy . Try Sand Beach for dipping your toes in the ocean or Echo Lake for a swim in a lake.
• Acadia Sunrise – watch as nature awakens at the Otter Cliffs or Cadillac Mountain
• Lighthouses! – Take a family photo in front of the iconic Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse

We also have a list of fun things to do in Acadia in the Rain & and a full 4 day Acadia National Park itinerary for more year round things to do in both Bar Harbor & Acadia.

Summer is peak season in Acadia, so do be prepared for crowds, especially at the most popular spots along Park Loop Road. The Schoodic Peninsula area tends to be quieter if you’re looking to escape the crowds.

3. Enjoy Kennebunkport: A Seaside Haven

Coastal Maine in summer means planning a day at the beach . 

Kennebunkport, Maine has an abundance of natural beauty and cultural charm, making it the perfect spot for a summer vacation. 

Put on your swim trunks and cool off at Goose Rocks Beach, one of the best beaches in Maine. Tourists and locals flock here for its white sand and reef that shelters the bay. Making it great for little kids and swimming or looking for special treasures.

Surf’s up at Gooch’s Beach . Lessons are offered if needed.

Looking to avoid the crowds, Colony Beach (aka Arundel Beach) is the place for beach treasures and sunset strolls. Just note there’s no washrooms, and very little parking.

There are plenty of fun things to do in Kennebunkport, ME in summer to make this a worthshile stop on a summer road trip.

⭐️ Where to Stay: Stay at Nonatum Resort for a fun, family friendly adventure (Kid’s Club, s’mores, movie nights, kayaking & SUPs, a pool, free breakfast & more).

For a romantic getaway, the Cottages at Cabot Cove are a private oasis, set in a storybook setting with a resort-like atmosphere.

4. Camden: Where the Mountains Meet the Sea

Camden, an idyllic seaside town, is often rated one of the most beautiful places in Maine . Located mid-coast Maine, it’s a favorite stop for food, and views of Mount Battie, where it meets Penobscot Bay.

Camden Hills State Park has 20 trails to choose from , rated easy to moderate. 

• Hike the 1.0 mile loop trail up Mount Battie and back, rated moderate for a few steep areas, but worth it for the views. 

Fresh and Co is a family favourite, and our top pick. The service is always fantastic, and their fusion food is so tasty from their fish and chips to their Brazilian stew, & Hangar steak, you can’t go wrong. You’ll need a reservation if you don’t want a long wait.

⭐️ Where to stay in Camden:  Choose the Towne Motel , for a family friendly affordable stay. Modern amenities, and a delicious home-baked continental breakfast daily. Just a 5 minute stroll to downtown and picturesque Penobscot Bay.

Stay at the Camden Harbor Inn for a romantic getaway, in this small historic luxury Bed and Breakfast overlooking the harbor.

Savor Some Tasty Maine Seafood

Maine is the place for seafood lovers to get your seafood fix. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a full-fledged meal or a fine dining experience. 

The best lobster is fresh from the boats, and steamed, then dipped in a bit of butter, or made into an iconic Maine lobster roll.

5. Classic Lobster Pounds &  Shacks to Try

Lobster Pounds & Lobster Shacks are the quintessential dining spots where you have to try fresh Maine lobster at least once. With their abundance of fresh seafood, it’s easy to find the perfect seafood dish that will satisfy your cravings.

Local favorite Lobster Pounds & Shacks in Maine include :

• Thurston’s Lobster Pound on Mount Desert Island (stop off on your way to Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse)
• McLoon’s Lobster Shack, South Thomaston (no fried seafood here!)
• Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf in New Harbor, ME (near Pemaquid Point Lighthouse)
• The Lobster Shack in Harpswell, ME.

Maine is home to a diverse array of seafood choices. Some local favorites include:

• The Massive Lobster Rolls & fried scallops at Red’s Eats in Wiscasset, ME.
• Steamers – soft-shell steamed clams with broth & butter at Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf
• Oysters on the half shell at Eventide Oyster Co in Portland, ME
• Locally sourced poke bowls, clam pizza, and Pemaquid oysters at the Contented Sole in New Harbor

Maine has many other culinary delights should the young uns not appreciate seafood. Most restaurants will offer a variety of dishes to suit everyone’s tastes. 

So if you’re looking for a delicious seafood experience, head to Maine in July and enjoy some of the freshest catches!

Lighthouse Hopping in Maine

6. see a maine lighthouse up close .

If you are a fan of lighthouses, Maine has over 60 along the coast. You really do blink, and there’s another one. 

Each has their own unique history, and place in Maine’s maritime history. Here are 3 ideas of lighthouses to visit in the summer months to get you started:

• Portland Head Light (aka Portland Head Lighthouse) in Cape Elizabeth is a historical gem and the oldest lighthouse in Maine. It’s also sits next to the 90-acre Fort Williams Park. Perfect for letting the kids run around and explore old fort structures. 
• Pemaquid Lighthouse in mid-coast Maine is famous not only for its picturesque setting, and Fisherman’s Museum in the old Lightkeeper’s Home. It was also the first lighthouse to be featured on US currency (Maine’s quarter). 
• Cape Neddick (Hubble) Lighthouse is located on a tiny island off of York. It’s one of the most painted and photographed lighthouses around.

Beach Escapes

7. visit  old orchard beach & palace playground.

Old Orchard Beach is a fun coastal New England town for a family beach vacation, and anyone who’s looking to enjoy rides at the Palace Playland.  It’s in our top 10 list of the best things to do in Maine in July.

This oceanfront amusement park opened  in 1902, and is a summer destination for many Mainers too. Try out rides like the Electra Wheel, Sea Viper and bumper cars. 

Then relax along the seven miles of beaches that stretch from the Old Orchard Pier and boardwalk.  

⭐️ Where to stay:  Families love staying at The Edgewater    for it’s old school ocean resort vibes, but nicely updated.

Or book the Atlantic Ocean Suites , for its  spacious beachside apartment s, right on the water for those who want a bit more space.

8. Ogunquit, Maine in July

Ogunquit is exactly what you imagine a small Maine coastal town should be.

Well known for its artists, Ogunquit Beach and fabulous restaurants, it makes for a lovely romantic getaway, or family vacation in Southern Maine. 

Ogunquit Beach

Ogunquit Beach has a three-mile stretch of soft sand running from Main Beach, near the center of town, to Footbridge Beach and North Beach.

It’s the perfect place to walk, sunbathe, play, or relax, while enjoying the salty breeze and watching surfers ride the waves.

Walk Marginal Way in Ogunquit

The scenic coastal cliff walk of Marginal Way is a perfect way to start your summer day. A peaceful walk with breathtaking ocean views. 

Thirty-five benches scattered along this 2.5 mile coastal hike, provide you with ample opportunity to sit, rest and contemplate your day.

⭐️ Where to stay: Cliff House Resort in Cape Neddick minutes away from Ogunquit Beach is perfect for romantic getaways, or family friendly vacation. Pools, restaurants, activities for all ages.

9. Reid State Park: A Quieter Beach Getaway

This hidden gem nestled on the shores of Georgetown, ME boasts two of the most stunning wide sand beaches in the state – Mile and Half Mile . Plus it’s a top place to surf in Maine.

These aren’t your average beaches! They’re also a sanctuary for endangered least terns and piping plovers.

When you’re ready to explore beyond the beach, wander through the park’s diverse trails, through salt marshes to rocky ledges. Enjoy the breathtaking views of nearby islands and lighthouses on Seguin Island, The Cuckolds, and Hendricks Head.

Perfect for a coastal retreat that’s a little off the beaten path.

Exploring Portland’s Arts, Culture & Sites

10. visit portland, maine.

Portland is one popular destination in Maine, for good reason. Great food, and craft beer, history and outdoor attractions to enjoy. 

Here are a few summer time favorites:

• Take an Old Port Culinary Tour – Portland is a foodie haven. Take this guided walking tour to discover & taste the best local food.
• Walk the 2 mile  Eastern Promenade Trail – Enjoy beaches, sweeping bay & coastal views and even a playground for the littles.
• Visit Portland Observatory – the last standing maritime signal tower built in 1802. Also offers the best view of the bay. You can go on guided tours from May to October. 
• Enjoy this Portland Fire Engine Co. Tour – A Kid friendly way to see Portland on this one hour tour in a real vintage fire truck.
• Eat a Holy Donut – Made with real Maine potatoes, and baking up flavors such as Maple Bacon, Fresh Lemon and vanilla glazed. You can’t go wrong. There’s even gluten-free options.
• First Friday Art Walks – First Friday evening of every month, the city’s artists, galleries, and arts venues open up their doors for an Art Walk. Take a free self-guided tour.
• Maine’s Discovery Museum – Cultivate your kid’s curiosity about science, art, technology and more on 3 floors of hands on exhibits.
• Portland Museum of Art – Over 18,000 works of art, this museum boasts an impressive collection of American and European art, including works by Winslow Homer, Claude Monet, and Andy Warhol.

⭐️ Where to stay in Portland, Maine:  This AC Hotel Portland Downtown/Waterfront by Marriott is a great choice, right in Old Port, within walking distance of everything. 

For a more luxurious stay, or romantic getaway, the Blind Tiger Guest House is a gorgeous inn, with a breakfast guests rave about.

11. Enjoy the Craft Beer Scene in Portland, Maine

Did you know that Portland has the most breweries per capita in the US?

It’s the perfect place to indulge in a craft beer or two. There’s nothing like sitting on a patio drinking a cold one on a sunny afternoon. Am I right? 

Allagash Brewery offers a tour and a patio, to indulge in tasting craft local beers, with a focus on Belgian style beers. 

Bissell Brothers operates in a 100-year old former rail car repair building.With an on-site kitchen and menu, plus IPAs like Exponent & Nothing Gold, lagers and One Little Stone, a  Czech style dark lager, it’s a great place for a bite and a brew. 

Or maybe this Maine Brew Cruise tour is more your speed. Get driven around in comfort, while tasting the many different styles and flavors of alcohol Portland is known for at breweries around the city.

12. Pose for Photos at Portland Breakwater Lighthouse (aka: Bug Light)

Bug Light is a cute, unique  lighthouse that sits at the end of a breakwater, and is still in use today. The decorative columns were modeled after Greek Corinthian columns. 

It’s a popular place to take an oceanside walk, and for kite-flying. There’s even a Bug Light Kite Festival On the third weekend of May each year.

Didn’t bring a kite? No worries, they usually sell them at the museum gift shop onsite.

Summer Island Hopping in Maine

13. take the ferry to peakes island.

Peakes Island is the perfect summer escape , just a short 20 minute ferry ride from Portland, ME. Ferries have been docking here at the Forest City Landing since the 1880s.

Biking the small island is a popular way to get around.

It takes only 40 minutes to cover the whole island . But you’ll want to take your time meandering alongside Maine cottages, stopping at the shops, galleries and welcoming Sandy Beach or Cairn Beach along the way.

14. Monhegan Island: An Artists’ Paradise

Get ready to experience Maine’s coastal charm with a summer island-hopping adventure to quaint Monhegan Island! It’s only a square mile in area. 

Just a quick passenger ferry ride away from Port Clyde, this picturesque gem offers stunning vistas, tranquil hiking trails, and a tight-knit community of artists. You can also reach the island from New Harbor, and Boothbay Harbor.

You can find lodging, restaurants, art studios, crafts co-op, and the Monhegan Museum of Art & History in the village area. 

The ‘wildlands’ features  9 miles of hiking trails, leading to the highest ocean cliffs on the Maine coastline.

Sailing Adventures Along Coastal Maine

15. sail the casco bay.

See Portland, ME & Casco Bay from a unique vantage point  aboard this classic Tall Ship Cruise.  

A family friendly cruise aboard a Maine-built windjammer , is a fun way to experience Maine’s rugged coastline, lighthouses, seals, and seabirds.

Feel like a captain of the sea. You can  join the crew to hoist the sails or take a turn at the ship’s wheel if so inspired. 

Family-Friendly Attractions: Maine in July 

16. kids day at fun town splashtown in saco, maine.

Just 20 minutes outside of Portland, ME, Fun Town Splashtown (a Fun Park with a Water Park ) is the place to spend the day with kids. 

The Fun Park is great when you want to dry off and hop on Maine’s only wooden roller coaster , dragon ride or kiddies bumper boats. There’s kiddie rides, family rides and thrill rides, 

Parents, get those brownie points with the kids, and they may even not whine when you want to stop to visit another lighthouse. 

17. York’s Wild Kingdom Zoo & Amusement Park

Check out York’s Wild Kingdom, a family-run zoo and amusement park just a stone’s throw from Short Sands Beach in York Beach, Maine.

Get up close with amazing critters like African lions, lemurs, and prairie dogs. Hand-feed adorable pygmy goats, deer, and ducks, or stroll through our parakeet and butterfly enclosures.

When you’re tired of animals, move on to the amusement park section. There’s amusement rides for all ages, such as roller coasters, go karts, Bounce house and merry go rounds. 

As well as snack bars, picnic areas and mini golf.  Plan to spend the day here. 

Shopping Local in Maine

18. shop & explore freeport.

Shopping may not be the first thing you think of when someone says Maine (Lobster & lighthouses anyone ?!?) 

However Freeport is home to the L.L. Bean store and infamous bigger than life size Bean Boot statue. As well as many other recognizable store outlets. 

Other fun activities around Freeport include hiking & picnicking in Wolfe’s Neck State Park, visiting the dunes of the Desert of Maine and trying some artisan bread at When Pigs Fly Bakery.

19. Go Antiquing in Boothbay Harbor

Looking for treasures? Head to the Boothbay Antiques Show & Sale early in July. Set in a perfect east coast village of Boothbay it’s a wonderful place to find collectibles, antiques and more.

20. Kittery Outlets: Bargain Hunting

If you’re a bargain hunter, you can’t miss the Kittery Outlets.

With over 60 outlet stores, you’ll find everything from designer clothes to home goods at discounted prices. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can expect:

• Clothing and Accessories: From Calvin Klein to Children’s PLace, Old Navy and  J. Crew Factory, you can find high-quality clothes and accessories for men, women, and children.
• Shoes: Looking for a new pair of kicks? You’re in luck! Adidas, Nike, and Skechers are just a few of the shoe stores at the outlets.
• Home Goods: Spruce up your home with discounted home decor, kitchenware, and bedding from stores like Le Creuset and Pottery Barn Outlet.
• Specialty Stores: For something a little different, check out the specialty stores like Yankee Candle and Harry & David.

Outdoor Activities for Nature Lovers

21. Do a Little Glamping or Camping in Maine

Summertime is the best and most popular time to pitch a tent in the beautiful wilds of Maine. 

Campgrounds along the Saco River are one of the best places to camp, if you also want to do some river tubing. 

There’s even a choice Saco River one-of-a-kind glamping spot for couples or solo adventurers looking for a quiet place, away from the crowds.

Some other beautiful and iconic spots include:

• Hermit Island Campground, Phippsbur g (tents only) – Head to one of seven sandy beaches accessible only to campers.Popular with generations of locals too.
• Mount Desert Campground – family run, sites right on Somes Sound, and only 20 minutes to Acadia’s many trailheads. It’s also a stop on the Island Explorer bus route. 
• Wolfe’s Neck Oceanfront Campground, Freeport – Organic farm & campground. Choose the tent-only sites in Middle Bay or one of  the nine walk-in sites at Quiet Cove, for a more peaceful experience.
• Cathedral Pines Campground, Eustis – For the RVers. Sites sit amongst old-growth red pines scattered around the campground. There’s a private beach on Flagstaff Lake and playground for the kidlets.

22. Have a Cook-Out at Popham Beach 

Popham Beach State Park in Phippsburg lies on south side of the Kennebec River is a popular state park, for good reason. 

Miles of sandy beach, interesting  dune formations and an outstanding bathroom/shower set up make this a great spot to spend a day or two with kids, or just the adults.

⭐️ Just note : there’s strong surf & undertow so not the best for the littles to swim in.

At low-tide you can walk seemingly forever, and there’s a couple of islands to explore by walking on a sandbar. Just be sure to come back before the tide rises.   

Use the grills (bring charcoal) in the picnic area for a beach cook-out lunch or dinner. No fires on the beach allowed. Bring a Maine wild blueberry pie along for dessert. 

Make sure to save time for exploring the nearby old Fort Popham.  

23. Kayak Sebago Lake

Sebago Lake near Portland is the second largest lake in Maine at 45 square miles. Plenty of space to play.

Kayaking on Sebago Lake offers multiple beaches for swimming, man-made canals, natural coves and inlets to explore. Fishing is also a popular activity here. 

Sebago State Park sits on the lake’s northeast corner in the towns of Casco and Naples, offers camping, picnic areas and boat launches as well. 

For the kids, Seacoast Fun Parks is close by in Windham, ME, with mini golf, go karts, and other amusement rides. 

Festivals In Maine in July

Summer is a time for festivals in Maine. We’ve highlighted below the most popular, happening in July, from music to celebrating clams. 

24. Yarmouth Clam Festival

Clam lovers and festival enthusiasts unite for one of Maine’s most beloved summer traditions – the Yarmouth Clam Festival.

Taking place on the third full weekend in July every year since 1975, this spectacular three-day event is a must-visit for families, foodies, and fun-seekers.

There’s a whole host of family-friendly activities including a a vibrant and lively parade Friday night , array of arts & crafts stalls, a bustling carnival with games & rides , and performances by talented local and regional musicians.

And it doesn’t stop there! There are competitions and events for all ages. But the main event (pun intended) is the Maine State Clam Shucking Contest . Competitors race against the clock to see who can win the title of the fastest clam shucker in the state.

25. North Atlantic Blues Festival 

Mid July is an exciting time in Rockland, Maine, as it marks the annual two-day blues music festival. This highly anticipated event features some of the nation’s most talented blues performers , who take to the stage to deliver electrifying performances.

Public Landing is situated in the heart of Rockland , overlooking the beautiful Rockland Harbor. Visitors can take in the stunning views while enjoying the music, local food and festivities , creating a truly unforgettable experience.

⭐️ Where to stay: Stay at the Rockland Harbor Hotel , for its comfortable rooms, water view, and free breakfast. It’s also within easy walking distance to restaurants, museums, and shops.

For a romantic getaway, stay at the Berry Manor Inn. Luxurious bedding, whirlpool tubs, fireplaces and a complimentary gourmet breakfast, are just a few of the reasons to stay at this restored gem.

26. Moxie Festival 

If you’re looking for a unique and fun way to celebrate summer in Maine, then look no further than the Moxie Festival. This festival is all about celebrating Maine’s most iconic drink – Moxie!

Moxie, it’s a soft drink that has been a beloved part of Maine’s culture for over a century. It’s known for its unique flavor, which has been described as a mix between root beer and cough medicine. It’s way better than it sounds!

One of the highlights of the festival is the Moxie parade, which features floats, vintage cars and bands. 

But the parade is just the beginning – there’s also a Moxie 5K race, a Moxie recipe contest, and even a Moxie chugging contest (if you’re feeling brave!). And of course, no Moxie Festival would be complete without plenty of opportunities to sample this beloved drink.

Celebrate the iconic Maine drink “Moxie” the second weekend in July in Lisbon, ME. 

27. Great Schooner Race & Parade

Ahoy, mateys! Are you ready for some good ol’ seafaring fun? 

Mark your calendars, because the Great Schooner Race & Parade in Rockland, Maine,   is an event you don’t want to miss!

Since 1977, the Great Schooner Race & Parade is the largest annual gathering of traditional schooners in America , set in picturesque Penobscot Bay. They come together every year in early July to showcase their beauty, speed, and elegance as they race each other along Maine’s stunning coastline.

The race begins and ends at Rockland Breakwater. While the race is the main attraction, there’s also a parade of sea vessels, the day before the race, and  seafood and other delicious treats to try . While enjoying the laid-back, coastal vibes.

So, are you ready to hoist the sails and set course for the Great Schooner Race & Parade in Maine this summer?

Grab your crew and make your plans now.

Final Thoughts: Best Things to do in Maine in July

Visiting Maine in July is the perfect time to take a beach vacation, do a little hiking at Acadia, or camp along the Saco River.

With warm weather, coastal breezes, and gorgeous coastline to explore, you won’t want to miss everything this amazing US state has to offer.

Just remember that summer is peak season. So make sure to book your Maine car rental, and book your favorite resort, hotel or camping spot early.

PIN for Later

MAINE RESOURCES

Here are our favourite resources we use to research and book our trips. They offer competitive deals, and good customer service. Plus itineraries and more travel ideas for Maine: Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip: What not to miss 13 Best Breakfast Spots in Bar Harbor, ME —- Best Maine Activities in Spring Best Oceanfront resorts & hotels in Maine Airports in Maine What Maine is Known For Weather in Maine Booking.com – Book your accomodations here. Excellent all round booking site for lowest lodging rates. VRBO – Book family friendly accommodations here, that have the comforts of home, but without the cleaning! Viator – Find & book even more experiences, tours & fun lessons world wide. Discover Cars – Make finding the cheapest or best car for your trip easy (worldwide) Anything else? Check out our Family Travel Resources & Tips page

Donna Garrison is the founder of Packed for Life, an ever curious traveler with a passion for making memories with her family. With a unique perspective on travelling on a budget gathered over 30 years, 20 countries and 5 continents she gives families the tools & resources they need to experience the joys of travelling more for less through practical solutions. She helps over 20,000 families a month plan & take the family travel, camping and road trip adventures of their dreams in Canada, the USA and around the world. Contact her at: Donna [at] packedforlife.com

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New England Wanderlust

Maine , Summer  ·  February 28, 2024

Summer In Maine: 35 Fun Ideas + Best Places To Go (2024)

Maine is known as “Vacationland” in New England, and there’s a very good reason for that! With over 200 miles of coastline, charming towns, amazing beaches, and the only national park in the region, it’s one of the best places to plan a vacation, especially in the summer.

Are you looking to plan a getaway to Maine in the summer? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Hi there, my name is Sam, and I’ve been exploring New England for over 15 years now, and spend most of my time on the coast. I’ve taken road trips along the entire Maine coastline, been to Acadia National Park so many times I’ve lost count, and I’ve made it my own personal goal to find the best towns and destinations in Maine (spoiler alert, I totally did 😉).

This post is all about the summer season, and where to find the best beach towns, where to stay that’s worth your time and money, and the most fun things to do in Maine during the summer months. With that, let’s start planning your Maine summer vacation!

New England Wanderlust contains affiliate links, and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. We may earn a commission from any purchases you choose to make from our links, at no additional cost to you. For more information, please refer to our  Privacy Policy .

Short on time? I’ve got you covered! Here are my top recommendations on where to go and stay in the summer: ⛱️ Ogunquit – stay at the fabulous Cliff House Resort or Anchorage By The Sea ⛱️ Bar Harbor – stay at the beautiful Bar Harbor Inn & Spa or The Claremont Want more ideas? Then just keep reading – I’ve got tons! 😉

What Is Maine Like In The Summer?

Much like the rest of New England, Maine sees its best weather in the summer. This is when you’ll experience the warmest days, and fewest chances of rain, making it the ideal season to be outside and exploring, especially on a beach.

This is also peak tourist season in Maine for many destinations, including anywhere on the coast. You’ll find the highest prices at hotels and vacation rentals, as well as the biggest crowds. But the trade-off is the awesome weather, and the fact that all seasonal businesses and boat tours are open.

Maine Summer Weather

You’ll want to prepare for hot and humid weather during the summer in Maine. I’ve seen some reports and articles say that Maine does have more comfortable weather in the summers, compared to other states in New England (and across the country!). But in my experience, I still find it pretty warm and humid.

Generally speaking, the summer season also bring fewer rainy days, but since this is New England, rain is never out of the question. Maine will typically only experience 7-8 days of rain per month in the summer. Of course, there are very dry years where it hardly rains at all, and then wet years, where rainfall is higher than average. It really depends. But July and August offer the most rain-free days throughout the year.

Maine is also a big state, and weather, rainfall, and temperature could depends on where you are. The further north you go, the colder it will likely be, so a summer vacation in Bar Harbor, for example, will average daily temperatures a bit lower than southern Maine places like Kennebunkport.

It’s also good to know that New England is definitely trending hotter in recent years due to global warming, so I highly suggest you check the weather forecast a few days before your trip for the most accurate idea of what kind of weather to expect. I once went to Maine in July, and the temperatures were reaching close to 95°F, with a high humidity, and it was … intense!

But overall, especially by the coast, weather trends warm, but offers a nice breeze throughout the season to keep you somewhat cool.

Average temperatures in July & August in Maine: 80°F during the day, and 60°F at night.

Best Summer Month To Visit Maine: July, August, Or September?

Each of these months are honestly great, and they all will offer something a bit different. But generally, they’re also pretty similar. Allow me to explain 😉

July in Maine is lovely because it’s the start of the summer season, and also, the famous New England hydrangeas are in full bloom around the state. This month also offers the longest days in the summer, which is really nice. Generally, I love July around New England for this reason!

August in Maine is pretty much the same as July in terms of weather, and the hydrangeas begin to fade for the season. So, you’ll still get to see them in bloom, but they won’t be as colorful, and they could be showing signs of drying up. Days are a bit shorter in August, but a nice perk of this month is that you’ll usually have warm ocean water (well, warm for the northeast, anyway!), as it’s had more time in the sun by now.

September is really nice, and once Labor Day is over, you’ll begin to see lower hotel prices, slightly fewer crowds, and more mild weather. If you travel in September along the New England coast, and want weather that’s most similar to summer, I always suggest right after Labor Day through mid-September. Once you get past mid-September, the weather usually begins to cool down a bit more, and you’ll have days that start to feel more like autumn.

In a nutshell, it just depends on what you want to prioritize . July offers the longest days and peak hydrangea blooming. August offers warm(er) ocean water. September has the shortest days, but fewest crowds and more mild weather.

Overall, I personally love July for a summer vacation in Maine, but it’s just personal preference because I’m such a sucker for those long summer days and beautiful New England hydrangeas 😍

Best Places To Visit In Maine In The Summer For Vacation

1. ogunquit.

My absolute favorite beach town in Maine is Ogunquit, for a few different reasons:

✓ One, it has one of the best beaches in Maine.

✓ Two, most everything is walkable , including the beach! I also love the location in southern Maine because you’re not far from York, Cape Neddick, Kennebunkport, or even Portland. If you’re coming in from Boston, it’s also less than a 90 minute drive.

✓ Three, the town itself is filled with New England charm , and there are plenty of things to do to stay busy, including lots of awesome choices for dining.

Ogunquit Beach stretches for about 3 miles, and its beautiful, pristine sand, and offers tons of room to spread out. It does get very busy in the summer, but even in July and August, it never feels overly crowded because if its size.

The beach is an easy walk from town, and this is where you’ll find streets lined with cute shops and fantastic restaurants. One of my favorite things to do in Ogunquit is Marginal Way, which is a paved walking path along the coast that connects Ogunquit’s town center with Perkins Cove, a charming little harbor with its owns shops and restaurants. The views along here are amazing, too!

There are also some nice hotel options in Ogunquit, with options both in town and right on the beach or Marginal Way.

Overall, this is such a fantastic and easy summer vacation spot that’s in a great location, and is perfect if you want to spend lots of time at the beach.

Where To Stay In Ogunquit : ⛱️ Cliff House – Located on Cape Neddick about 10 minutes from Ogunquit, this is one of the best resorts in Maine, and I love to recommend it when visiting this area! ⛱️ Anchorage By The Sea – Located along Marginal Way right in town, and walkable to most everything. ⛱️ Norseman Resort – A more basic hotel, but right on the beach, making it hard to beat!

Psst! Be sure to check out my guide on the best things to do in Ogunquit for even more ideas 😉

2. Kennebunkport

Located not far from Ogunquit is Kennebunkport, which is another fantastic beach town in Maine. The biggest difference between Kennebunkport and Ogunquit is that the beach in Ogunquit is much more impressive than the beaches in Kennebunkport. That said, Kennebunkport’s beaches are still really nice and absolutely worth visiting in the summer.

The biggest appeal of Kennebunkport as a summer destination is its beautiful and idyllic coastal scenery. After all, there was a reason President Bush and his family made this their summer home base of all the places in the U.S.! You’ll find the famous Clam Shack seafood joint open in the summer, and boat tours around the harbor in full swing.

In Kennebunkport’s downtown, you’ll find charming streets built around the river and the cove, and they’re lined with historic homes, colorful store fronts, and wonderful dining options. The downside to Kennebunkport is that the beaches are not walkable from town, and you’ll need to drive to them, unless you choose to stay closer to the beaches.

That said, Kennebunkport offers the best of both worlds in terms of a summer vacation, and just so happens to be one of the most picturesque places in Maine.

Where To Stay In Kennebunkport : ⛱️ Tides Beach Club – Right on the beach, which is perfect if that’s your main reason for visiting. ⛱️ Hidden Pond – Another one of the best summer resorts and spas in New England! This is located outside of town, but it feels like an authentic Maine escape with top-notch amenities. ⛱️ Cottages at Cabot Cov e – Only open seasonally, this grouping of individual, storybook-looking cottages is right on the cove, but walkable to town. Complimentary use of the row boats and daily breakfast delivery is included!

There are so many other amazing hotels in Kennebunkport that I love, and this is just a small sampling of some that I recommend the most. One of the best things about Kennebunkport is the amazing hotel selection! I also love the Captains Collection , Kennebunkport Inn , White Barn Inn for a luxurious getaway, and the Nonantum Resort for families.

3. Bar Harbor & Acadia National Park, Of Course!

I mean, it goes without saying that Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park are going to be tops on my list, right? 😉 Acadia is one of the absolute best things to see when visiting New England, and it just so happens that the park’s closest town, Bar Harbor, is one of the most charming coastal destinations in the region, too. You really get the best of both worlds during your trip, which makes the drive all the way there so worth it.

Peak season in both Bar Harbor and Acadia is July and August, and for good reason. All the seasonal businesses are open, boat tours are in full swing, and you’ll have the longest days to explore the park to get the most out of your trip.

Of course, you’ll want to budget plenty of time to explore Acadia, and depending on how many days you have for your trip, the great thing about the park if that you can see the highlights in about 2 days. However, I usually recommend about 3-4 days to have time to leisurely explore the top sites, and also get a good feel for Bar Harbor, since it’s a worthy destination on its own.

The top things I suggest you do in Acadia on your trip are:

✓ Park Loop Road , the most scenic drive in the park.

✓ Lunch at the Jordan Pond House , and get their famous popovers!

✓ Sunrise on top of Cadillac Mountain – it’s one of the first places to see the sunrise, so it’s a special and popular thing to do. The park requires permits for vehicle access to the summit mid-May through October, so be sure to get your reservation here .

✓ Walk Ocean Path , which runs along Park Loop Road.

✓ Tackle a few hikes . I really love the Great Head and Bubble Rock trails for easy-moderate hikes with good payoff, and also Beehive for a more thrilling hike.

✓ Spend the day at Sand Beach , which is stunning, and best visited in the summer.

Where To Stay Near Acadia : ⛱️ Bar Harbor Inn & Spa – Located right in town and walkable to shops and dining, it’s also waterfront! ⛱️ Bar Harbor Villager Motel – Perfect for more budget-conscience travelers (I stay here a lot if my focus is exploring the park!). Also walkable to shops and dining in town. ⛱️ The Claremont – A luxury waterfront resort in Southwest Harbor, in a more quiet area near Acadia, which is romantic and perfect for couples. It’s also beautifully decorated and offers great amenities.

Here are some of my guides on this area you may find helpful:

• My Perfect Acadia National Park Itinerary
• Best Time To Visit Acadia National Park
• Day Trips From Bar Harbor

4. Sebago Lake

While the ocean coastline is popular in Maine, let’s not forget about the beautiful lakes, and my favorite is Sebago Lake. This destination is perfect for all kinds of travelers, whether it’s a romantic getaway, or families with children.

One of the best things about Sebago Lake, in addition to its beautiful scenery, is the Migis Lodge . This resort has been in business since 1916, and feels both upscale, and down to earth. It’s unique in that it’s completely all-inclusive , including meals and activities, and you have your choice of cottages and lodge rooms to choose from.

The whole experience feels like a nod to the classic resorts that were popular in the 60s, but everything is, of course, updated for today’s world. One tradition that has continued to live on (in addition to the wonderful service), is the dress code at dinner . Gentlemen are required to wear pants, collared shirts, and jackets, which is the perfect excuse for everyone to dress up and enjoy a night out together.

Life slows down a bit on Sebago Lake, and the scenery provides an authentic Maine summer experience.

Where To Stay Around Sebago Lake : ⛱️ In addition to Migis Lodge, there are tons of wonderful vacation rentals around the lake worth checking out. Click here to see your options on VRBO!

Not far from Ogunquit and Kennebunkport (and also Wells, which is next on my list 😉) is the beautiful coastal town of York. It’s not as popular as the places previously mentioned, but if you’re looking to stay somewhere that’s slightly lesser-known to tourists, this may be a great option for your summer vacation in Maine.

York is home to some lovely beaches, a quaint little downtown area, and some beautiful waterfront scenery. The beaches in York are typically pretty calm, too, making this a great choice for families with younger children.

All the beaches in York run along Route 1A with street parking, but that means that shops, dining, and many hotels are not that far away.

During your summer visit to York, I love to suggest visiting Cape Neddick to see Nubble Lighthouse, do the scenic Cliff Walk, and enjoy the fun atmosphere at Short Sand Beach, which is close to town and the very cool and retro Fun-O-Rama arcade.

Where To Stay In York : ⛱️ Cliff House – I mentioned this as a top place to stay near Kennebunkport, but wanted to mention it again since it’s located in York on Cape Neddick 😉 ⛱️ Stage Neck Inn – A cozy inn that’s on the water and a short walk to York Harbor Beach. ⛱️ York Harbor Inn – Another cozy inn option with 7 buildings, and some rooms that have amazing balconies with water views.

Also in southern Maine, near Kennebunkport and York, is Wells, which is another great option to consider for a summer vacation. Wells is a bit different from the other nearby destinations in that everything runs along the main road, so there’s not a true, walkable downtown. But, there are some great shops, dining, and beaches to enjoy here along the main strip that are worth your time.

The most popular beach in the area is Wells Beach, which is a beautiful, wide sandy beach with some nice tide pools, making it great for kids to explore. But there’s also a few other beaches in town that are wonderful to visit.

You’ll also want to check out the awesome nature trails in Wells at the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge and Wells Reserve at Laudholm . Wells is also known for its incredible antique stores, so if that interests you, you’ll definitely want to carve out some time to explore them.

Where To Stay In Wells : ⛱️ Atlantic Oceanfront Hotel – Right on the beach, and many rooms come with balconies with ocean views. ⛱️ Wells Moody Motel – A great budget-conscience option that’s semi-walkable to the beach.

7. Phippsburg

Situated between Harpswell and Boothbay Harbor is Phippsburg, and what makes this destination worthwhile is Popham Beach State Park, which is a gorgeous beach in Maine. This is also a lesser-known area to tourists, so if you’re looking for something a little more off-the-beaten-path, this is a great option.

I also really like Phippsburg’s downtown area, which is small, but walkable, and filled with fun shops and restaurants.

But Popham Beach is really where it’s at in Phippsburg, and this long stretch of soft sand is the perfect place to visit for a beach vacation in the summer. Around the the whole Phippsburg area, you’ll also find lots of idyllic Maine scenery, and you’re not too far from other great places to visit.

Where To Stay In Phippsburg : ⛱️ Sebasco Harbor Resort – Located right on the water, and their rooms in the lighthouse building are really cool!

8. Scarborough

Just outside of Portland, Scarborough is a super convenient place to visit in the summer season in Maine for a beach getaway. And since you’re not far from Portland’s downtown, you get the best of both worlds.

With a long, beautiful shoreline to enjoy during the day at Scarborough Beach State Park, you’re only about 25 minutes away from the top things to do in downtown Portland at night. And you’re also only about 30 minutes from Old Orchard Beach, which makes for a fun afternoon excursion and beach day.

Where To Stay In Near Scarborough Beach : ⛱️ Black Point Inn – The closest hotel to the beach, and also nice nice water views!

9. Boothbay Harbor

One of my favorite coastal towns in Maine is Boothbay Harbor, and while it’s not a big beach destination, the coastal scenery here is wonderful, and it’s full of authentic, Maine charm for a summer getaway.

Boothbay Harbor is just a short drive to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, which is especially perfect in the summer since everything will be in full bloom. But its very own downtown is worth exploring, and filled with colorful storefronts and great dining options.

One of the best things about Boothbay Harbor is the variety of options for boat tours, and each tour not only takes you around the beautiful harbor, but also gives you a taste for what the stunning scenery is like once you’re out on the open water. There are awesome wildlife and puffin tours, sailing cruises, and more that all depart right from downtown Boothbay Harbor.

I also love to recommend that you make a reservation at Cabbage Island Clambakes , which is such a quintessential Maine experience. You’ll be brought by boat to the family’s private island and residence, where you can enjoy the scenery and have a delicious and authentic Maine clam bake on the water.

Where To Stay In Boothbay Harbor : ⛱️ Harborage Inn On The Waterfront – I love staying here on my visits, and it’s just a very short walk to the heart of downtown. ⛱️ Spruce Point Inn – The perfect choice if you’re looking for lots of amenities and beautiful scenery.

Psst! Be sure to check out my guide on the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor for even more ideas 😉

My last suggestion on the coastal mainland is the beautiful town of Camden, and this is another destination that’s not really a beach town, but it makes up for it with lots of stunning coastal scenery.

Camden is home to a wonderful Main Street filled with gorgeous shops and wonderful restaurants, and it’s all very walkable. And since the entire town is situated along the harbor, it’s easy to enjoy all the coastal beauty without having to go very far. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places in Maine to see!

Camden is known for its sailing vessels, and so hoping aboard a windjammer tour during your visit is an absolute must! Camden Hills State Park is also great for hiking, and there’s also an auto road you can drive to the very top of Mount Battie to enjoy the views of Camden’s harbor from above.

Where To Stay In Camden : ⛱️ Camden Harbour Inn – Walkable to Main Street, and home to one of the best restaurants in town! ⛱️ 16 Bay View – A more modern, but still cozy option with an amazing rooftop deck overlooking the water.

11. Vinalhaven

Looking to venture off the mainland? Then you may want to consider staying on Vinalhaven Island. As one of the most beautiful islands off the coast of Maine, Vinalhaven is perfect if you’re hoping for unspoiled nature and gorgeous coastal scenery.

The island is only 23 square miles, so it offers you the luxury of enjoying everything at a slower pace since there’s no real rush to see everything. It’s also mostly locals that tend to visit and stay on the island, so this is a wonderfully authentic Maine experience if you’re looking for something off-the-beaten-path.

The ferry to Vinalhaven is located in Rockland, and it takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes each way.

Where To Stay On Vinalhaven : ⛱️  The Tidewater : The only hotel on the island! ⛱️  Click here to check out vacation rentals on Vinalhaven for more options!

12. Chebeague Island

Much like Vinalhaven, Chebeague is another wonderful island destination for a truly relaxing summer vacation. Also offering a lot of unspoiled natural beauty, beaches, and a slower pace of life, this feels like a true escape from reality.

One of the best parts of visiting Chebeague is the Chebeague Island Inn, which is the only hotel on the island. This beautiful inn offers such a welcoming home away from home during your stay, and they invite you to relax on their wrap-around porch, enjoy their lawn games, and take out their bikes to explore.

Where To Stay On Chebeague Island : ⛱️ Chebeague Island Inn : The only hotel on the island!

13. North Woods

For those looking for tranquility and seclusion, but don’t necessarily need to be by the ocean, the North Woods is such a dreamy summer vacation spot. This region is most definitely the most unspoiled part of Maine, and where locals tend to go when they really need to get away from it all. Oh, and this is also a great place to look for Moose!

With quiet lakes to row around, tons of hiking and nature trails, and stunning wooded and mountainous Maine scenery, the North Woods is unique in that it really does offer you a separation from your every day life – and I mean that quite literally because you’ll often lose cell phone service!

One of the best places to stay in the North Woods region is the Nahmakanta Lake Wilderness Lodge , where you can book one of their lakefront cabins, and enjoy a true wilderness experience away from the crowds. There are more places to stay in the area, but Nahmakanta is truly secluded and far from the main roads and other summer cottages. They also offer a dining package where they bring you fabulous home-cooked meals to enjoy each day, making it a stress-free vacation.

Fun Things To Do In The Summer In Maine

Now that we’ve gone over where to go in Maine, here are some extra suggestions on fun things to do in the summer season!

14. Plan An Epic Road Trip

Road tripping along Maine’s coast in the summer is honestly just incredible, especially because all the seasonal businesses are open, and you have the longest days to explore and drive. Since there are so many stops to make along the coast, each just as amazing and beautiful as the next, this is such a bucket list-worthy thing to do at least once in your life!

If you’re super ambitious, you could technically plan an even more epic road trip that goes all the way to Canada to explore some of the beautiful sites up that way (which is very worth it, and something I’ve done).

Here are some of my coastal road trip posts you may enjoy:

• Unforgettable Boston to Bar Harbor Road Trip Itinerary
• Best Stops To Make Driving Portland, Maine To Acadia National Park
• Fun Stops To Make Driving Boston To Portland, Maine

15. Tour The Lighthouses

Of course, some of the best stops to make on a Maine coastal road trip are all the beautiful lighthouses, and since Maine is home to over 60 lighthouses, it’s easy to see quite a few while exploring the coast!

I actually have an entire post on a detailed Maine Lighthouse Road Trip Itinerary that you can check out to help you plan your adventure. And good news! Many of the places I mentioned above can easily be worked into the itinerary for one memorable coastal road trip!

16. See Maine By Seaplane (Rhythm Intended 😉)

One of the coolest splurges you can make during your summer vacation in Maine is booking a seaplane tour to enjoy all the scenery from above! The best place to enjoy a seaplane tour is around the Rangeley Lake region, and there are a few different options you can book:

→ Seaplane Fly & Dine , which includes a flight tour over the lakes region, and then a 3-course lakeside dinner.

→ Mountain Explorer Seaplane Tour , which includes a very cool water landing for the ultimate adventure!

17. Pick Maine’s Famous Blueberries

Most people know that Maine is synonymous with both lobster and blueberries, and one of the best ways to enjoy the summer season is by picking your own Maine blueberries. I have an entire guide on Blueberry Picking In Maine , which includes the best spots to visit.

And don’t worry! If you’re not down for picking your own, many places also offer pre-picked blueberries you can buy and snack on during your visit.

Blueberry season in Maine typically begins at the end of July, which aligns perfectly with summer.

18. Eat At All The Best Seafood Shacks

You definitely can’t come to Maine in any season and not try the lobster! Well, unless of course you’re allergic to seafood. But if you’re not, summer is an incredible time to enjoy all the very best seafood shacks along the coast. Many of them are very seasonal, and are only open in the summer months, so you’ll have your pick of all of them.

Lobster rolls, lobster dinners, lobster bisque, New England clam chowder, steamers, and so much more are all caught locally in Maine, and are absolutely delicious. Some of my favorite seafood shacks along the coast to visit are:

→ Five Island Lobster Co. → McLoon’s Lobster Shack → Thurston’s Lobster Pound

But really, there are so many fantastic seafood shacks along the entire coast, in addition to fabulous restaurant options that serve equally as fresh seafood. So anywhere you go, you’ll have amazing options, and be sure to take advantage of them during your summer vacation!

19. Hit The Beach

This goes without saying, but I’ll just say it again anyway 😉 Maine is home to some fabulous beaches, so planning at least one day at the beach during your vacation is a good idea. I personally really love Ogunquit Beach and Sand Beach in Acadia the most, but here are some more really fantastic ones (these were already mentioned above, but let’s round ’em up):

→ Popham Beach → Wells Beach → Goose Rock Beach → Scarborough Beach State Park → Old Orchard Beach

20. Eat All The Ice Cream

I mean, is there anything better than an ice cream cone in the summer after a long day at the beach? I think not 😉 This may be personally motivated because I really do love good ice cream, but honestly, there are some amazingly delicious ice cream places all over Maine that are worth a stop. Here are some of my favorites:

→ Downeast Ice Cream → Scoop Deck → Wicked Good Ice Cream → Mount Desert Island Ice Cream → River Ducks

21. Visit A U-Pick Flower Farm

Another one of my favorite things about summer living in a four-season climate is all the beautiful flowers that bloom, and around Maine, there are some lovely places that offer U-pick flowers in their fields, or have cute little farm stands with freshly-cut bouquets to buy.

What I love about buying flowers directly from flower farmers is that they’ll typically have so much more than what you can find at the local grocery store, which makes for a special experience out in the field, or buying a unique bouquet from their stand.

Here are some great places to visit for either U-pick flowers, or pre-made bouquets:

→ Mainely Flower Farm → Fox Meadow flower Farm → Little River Flower Farm → Broadturn Farm

22. Visit The Pier At Old Orchard Beach

One of the top summer destination in southern Maine is Old Orchard Beach, and it’s also a very fun beach to visit in the state! I love to suggest a day trip to Old Orchard to enjoy the actual beach itself, and the very cool pier that’s filled with nostalgic games and eateries.

There’s also a cute little downtown area to explore, and places to eat along the waterfront where you can end your day.

Old Orchard Beach is worth visiting when in Maine, but the reason it didn’t make my list of the top summer destinations is because it doesn’t really feel like Maine, if that makes sense. It has more of an Atlantic City or Jersey Shore vibe, which is very cool. But if you’re visiting Maine for the first time, this is a place you can visit for a few hours, or skip entirely, so you have more time to soak up more authentic Maine vibes elsewhere.

23. Explore The State Parks

Beyond the state parks with incredible beaches like Popham and Scarborough, there are tons more to explore throughout Maine that offer wonderful nature trails and hiking. If you’re looking to get moving on your summer vacation, here are some great ones to check out:

→ Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park → Quoddy Head State Park → Baxter State Park → Owls Head State Park → Camden Hills State Park → Bradbury Mountain State Park → Grafton Notch State Park

24. Take A Scenic Hike

Speaking of getting outdoors into nature, Maine is packed with incredible hikes. And yes, while many of the best ones are up in Acadia National Park, you can actually find amazing ones all over the state. Here are some of the best ones to check out that are outside of Acadia:

→ Table Rock in Grafton Notch → Moxie Falls Trail → Mount Battie → Fire Warden’s Trail → Mount Kineo → Tumbledown Mountain

25. Celebrate Christmas In July

Get a head start on the holidays during your summer visit to Maine! A few places around the state get into the holiday spirit throughout July, and offer up special shopping promos, fun events, and Nubble Lighthouse’s Christmas lights are even lit on certain days in July as a festive way to celebrate!

York Days is one of the top Christmas in July events in Maine, and that just so happens to be where you can find Nubble Lighthouse. Santa even makes an appearance!

Naples in the Sebago Lakes region also does a very cool Christmas in July boat parade to check out.

26. Enjoy The July Fourth Fireworks

Fourth of July always bring very fun fireworks shows to most places around the U.S., and Maine is no exception. Most towns mentioned in this post will have a fireworks show to celebrate the Fourth, but just to round up the list, here are some great places to enjoy the fireworks:

→ Bar Harbor → Kennebunkport → Ogunquit → Boothbay Harbor (they also offer a fireworks cruise!) → Camden → Phippsburg → Portland

27. Head Out On A Whale Watch Tour

Since whale watching is such a seasonal event in New England, summer is one of the best times to head out on a tour! And also, you’ll get to enjoy the best weather, and you probably won’t be as cold out on the water as opposed to tours that run in the spring and summer 😉

Here are some of the best whale watch tours to check out in Maine:

→ First Chance Whale Watch in Kennebunkport → Cap’n Fish’s Cruises in Boothaby Harbor → Bar Harbor Whale Watch

28. Stay On A Private Island With A Lighthouse

One of the coolest things to experience in the summers in Maine on your vacation is a stay on a private island that has its very own lighthouse. Maine is so lucky to have wonderful people that continue to keep overnight stays at Little River Lighthouse open to the public, and if you love lighthouses, this is truly a bucket list experience to have.

Located just south of Lubec and north of Bar Harbor, this island is completely yours during your stay, which includes access to the lighthouse while you stay in the lightkeeper’s house on the island. Enjoy the ultimate sense of tranquility during your stay, and hopefully you get awesome weather to also enjoy sunset from the island.

29. Catch A Gorgeous Sunrise

While you can find some beautiful sunsets in New England, let’s face it, we’re known for our sunrises on the East Coast 😉 And in Maine, there are so many places to catch an epic sunrise.

One of the best places is, of course, Cadillac Mountain in Acadia, and as mentioned, you’ll need a vehicle reservation to visit mid-May through October. But this is definitely worth it if you can time it just right with a clear morning.

Lubec is another great place for a sunrise, which is the most northeastern town in the entire state, and another one of the very first places to catch the sunrise in the U.S.

But really, most of the coastline in Maine will offer a spectacular sunrise, so pick a place, and enjoy!

Psst! Be sure to check out my guide on Visiting Lubec, Maine if you’re interested in planning a trip there.

30. Relax On A Sunset Cruise

On the other end of the spectrum, you should totally enjoy sunset, too, and one of the best ways to do that in the summer season is on a scenic sunset cruise. Here are a few of my favorites to check out during your visit:

→ Windjammer Sunset Cruise in Camden → Schooner Sunset Sail in Boothbay Harbor → Sunset Lighthouse Cruise in Portland

31. Head Out On A Lobster Boat

Another fantastic way to enjoy the warm summer weather in Maine is by hopping aboard a lobster boat! Since lobster is famous in this area, it’s such a fun thing to experience, and you’ll really get a better understanding of the industry, its importance, and also get the chance to haul up a Maine lobster trap on your trip!

Here are some fantastic lobster boat tours to check out: → Rugosa Tours in Kennebunkport → Lighthouses, Lobster Haul, & Seals Tour in Boothbay Harbor → LuLu Lobster Boat Tours in Bar Harbor

32. Take A Day Trip To Peaks Island

Just off the coast of Portland is the little Peaks Island, which makes for such a fun day trip in the summer when visiting this area! The island is only 720 acres, so it makes it very easy to experience in a day, or even a half day.

It’s home to lots of scenic coastal views, some cute shops and eateries, and some really nice opportunities to bike or golf cart around the island.

33. Attend The Main Lobster Festival In Rockland

Typically held the last weekend in July or the first weekend in August, the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland is a 5-day long event with all the lobster you could possibly hope for. If you’re looking to eat lots of Maine lobster, you’ll probably want to plan to attend 😉

During the event, expect live music, local arts and craft vendors, a parade, activities for the kids, a seafood cooking contest, and lots of food vendors! Come hungry.

34. Experience The Windjammer Festival In Camden

Another popular summer event in Maine is the Windjammer Festival in Camden, which is typically held on Labor Day weekend.

Enjoy all kinds of fun events like the arrival of all the beautiful windjammers (which is pretty much worth attending just for this, honestly!), lobster crate races, live music, chowder contents, a boat parade, fireworks, and lots more.

35. Enjoy A State Fair

Lastly, why not enjoy a Maine state fair in the summer? There are a few throughout the state that are worth checking out, and this offer such a quintessential summer experience – rides, fair games, and fair food! Here are the best state fairs to experience this summer:

→ Bangor State Fair → Skowhegan State Fair → Blue Hill Fair

Summer In Maine FAQ

Best Places To Go For Families

✓ Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake for the kid’s activities and calm water.

✓ Kennebunkport for the beautiful beaches, and lots of family-friendly hotels to choose from.

✓ Spruce Point Inn in Boothbay Harbor for their awesome children’s activities.

Romantic Summer Vacations In Maine For Couples

Honestly, most everywhere in Maine along the coast is pretty romantic, but these are the ones I especially recommend for a romantic couples vacation:

✓ Camden for sunset windjammer cruises and awesome dining, plus cozy and romantic hotel options.

✓ Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park for a more adventurous romantic escape because of the small-town charm of Bar Harbor, and great hotel options. I love The Claremont and the Bar Harbor Inn & Spa for this type of getaway.

✓ Kennebunkport is also perfect for this category, too, because of the beautifully romantic hotel options like the White Barn Inn , Hidden Pond , and Cottages at Cabot Cove .

✓ Ogunquit for long strolls on the beautiful beach and romantic walks on Marginal Way. For a romantic weekend, I’d recommend staying just a few minutes away on Cape Neddick at the Cliff House .

Is Summer In Maine Expensive?

Unfortunately, yes. As mentioned, summer is high season along the Maine coast, and hotels and vacation rentals will charge a premium this time of the year. New England also tends to be a more expensive destination in general, so you can expect to pay a bit more for a vacation here.

Visiting In The Summer On A Budget

Of course, there are ways to visit on more of a budget! Camping options are all over, and there are some excellent campgrounds in Acadia National Park! I also love to stay at motels with efficiency kitchens, which will allow you to cook or BBQ so you can save some money on food during your trip.

If you’re on a budget, keep in mind that your Acadia park pass is good for 7 days , so you may want to stay for at least a few days there to really get your money’s worth out of your park admission fee.

Tips For Visiting Maine In The Summer

→ Book in advance , including hotels, tours, and dinner reservations. The summer season books out months in advance in many places in Maine, so for the most options, you’ll want to book everything as soon as you can.

→ Not all the best places to eat take reservations, though! A lot of popular casual places like seafood shacks don’t take reservations, and the lines can get long at peak meal times, especially dinner time on weekends. You’ll want to budget some extra time to wait in line, or dine a bit early (I usually plan to eat early at these places, and kind of enjoy it!).

→ Pack casual clothes . Maine isn’t an overly fancy place for a vacation, and you’ll find most everything pretty casual. Shorts, sandals, sundresses, and t-shirts are all pretty standard. Unless you plan to dine out at a fancy or upscale restaurant, keep everything casual. The only big exception is if you’ve booked a stay at Migis Lodge on Sebago Lake. In that case, have fun, and pack your dinner jackets, khakis, and dresses for a fun, dressed up night out!

→ Plan ahead to visit Cadillac Mountain in Acadia if that’s on your list! I know I’ve mentioned this before, but it bears repeating, as I’d hate for you to miss out if this is something you really want to experience. You’ll need to purchase a separate vehicle permit to drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain from mid-May through October.

→ Offline maps if taking a road trip . Cell service through most of Maine is pretty good, but inside Acadia National Park, near some beaches, and along a few places along the coast, I’ve lost service, so I always recommend offlining Google Maps to your phone if you’re not familiar with the area just to be safe.

More Of My Maine Travel Guides:

• Best Whoopie Pies In Maine
• Best Breweries In Portland, Maine
• Maine In November
• Spring In Maine
• Maine In October
• Maine In The Winter

More posts you may find helpful:

• Best Beach Towns In New England
• Most Incredible Lighthouses In New England To Visit
• Must-See Towns On The New England Coast
• New England Islands Worth Visiting
• Summer In New England: Where To Go & What To Do!
• My Ultimate 7 Day New England Road Trip Itinerary

That’s A Wrap On Maine In The Summer

And there you have it! Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on all the best places to plan a vacation in Maine in the summer, you’re ready to book your trip! Whether you’re excited to plan an epic road trip along the entire coast, enjoy the perfect beach vacation in Ogunquit, or get off-the-beaten-path on Vinalhaven, one thing’s fore sure – it’ll be one of your most memorable trips yet. Happy planning!

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19 Best Places to Go in Maine in the Summer for Every Vacation Type

Summer in Maine holds a unique charm. The days get longer, the oceans warmer, and a new life is brought to the largest New England state. From picturesque rocky coastlines and iconic lobster rolls to endless outdoor adventures and culturally rich history, this Pine Tree State serves as a perfect vacation destination, earning its moniker of Vacationland. Deciding where to visit can be overwhelming, so let’s break down the absolute best places to go in Maine in the summer.

After vacationing in Maine for over two decades with my family, I have experienced trips fit for all ages and interests. With the little ones, marine life is at the touch of their fingertips with the Maine State Aquarium and Divers Ed boat rides. The Southern Maine coastal towns of York, Wells, Ogunquit, and Old Orchard beach offer miles of sandy beaches.

Natural wonders like Acadia National Park and Rangeley Lake are perfect for those looking for some adventure. Portland has a vibrant food and brewery scene perfect for a weekend getaway .

Looking for a specific type of trip? Here are my top favorite places:

• Best for families: Belfast, Maine  
• Best for off-the-beaten-path: Rangeley, Maine  
• Best lake: Sebago Lake  
• Best for natural beauty: Bar Harbor /Acadia National Park  
• Best for young kids: York or Old Orchard Beach  
• Most unique: Monhegan Island  

Best places to Go in Maine in the Summer

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Kittery, ME

Being right off the border with New Hampshire, Kittery makes for a great day trip from Boston . This quaint town is known for its extensive outlet malls and historic sites. 

My family will make the day trip from Massachusetts just to go to When Pigs Fly , a delicious Brick oven Pizzeria. Make sure to check out When Pigs Fly Company Store for their sun-dried tomato bread and warm lemon blueberry cookies. Bob’s Clam Hut is another local favorite if you don’t mind waiting in the long lines for his crispy fried clams or fresh lobster rolls.

If you are looking to travel back in time, make your way to Fort Foster State Park on Gerrish Island to explore old military forts. This dog-friendly site offers large green areas to picnic, a calm rocky beach, and a walkable pier offering beautiful views of the mouth of the Piscataqua River. 

York, ME 

York is perfect for a weekend getaway with the whole family. This Southern Maine coastal beach town is a perfect place for young kids with York’s Wild Kingdom , both a zoo and an amusement park.

Offering family rides, bouncy houses, mini golf, and petting zoos, this one-stop destination is a full day event. Riding the kiddie dragon roller coaster and seeing the tigers up close, was peak excitement as a young kid.  

Long Sands Beach is more your typical sandy beach with decent waves for boogie boarding and surfing. Short Sands beach is downtown York with an old school arcade, and bowling alley. Stop by The Goldenrod where you can watch up close how salt water taffy is made, and then grab a bag yourself!

Where to Stay: Cliff House is in Cape Neddick and offers luxury accommodations with stunning views. York Harbor Inn is a luxury Inn located on the oceanfront on York Harbor. 

Ogunquit, ME

This quintessential beachtown will need a bit more than a weekend to explore. Located just north of York on the southern coast lies Ogunquit Beach, one of the top 25 beaches in the U.S. according to TripAdvisor’s Travelers Choice. 

Hop on the Trolly and ride down to the Ogunquit Playhouse where you can enjoy theater performances. Then, head down to the ocean and visit the old fishing village of Perkins Cove. 

Explore famous restaurants like Barnacle Billy’s known for their luxury lobster and scenic views. For dessert, stroll over to grab sea salt caramels from Perkins Cove Candies and walk along the drawbridge. 

Some quick things to keep in mind about visiting Ogunquit: 

• Many accommodations are waterfront on the Ogunquit tidal river instead of Ogunquit beach. At low tide it is possible to walk directly to the beach, but prepare to take the access point via beach street to find parking. 
• Ogunquit is one of the more touristy locations therefore it is important to plan around big crowds and higher prices for food and parking. 

Where to stay: The Anchorage By the Sea is a nice oceanfront place for families. 

Another stunning Southern Maine beach town, Wells is great for families. Wells consists of miles of sandy beaches where you can walk, surf, or search around tide pools. Some popular ones include Wells Beach, Moody Beach, and Drakes Island Beach. 

Are you a nature lover? The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge protects salt marshes and local habitats, while offering an immersive and relaxing experience through miles of walkable trails.

You can’t visit Wells without stopping by Congdon’s Doughnuts . These delicious doughnuts are one of the sole things we still remember today from our family vacations. According to recent reviews, the apple fritter is a must try. 

Belfast, ME 

Belfast, Maine is my family’s all-time favorite summer vacation destination, staying here for almost a decade. This quaint, artsy, affordable, mid-coastal beach town is nestled into Penobscot bay. The coast here consists of rocky cliffs, and sea glass littered beaches. The water is calm, shallow, and slightly warmer due to the bay. 

Dogs are more than welcome with dog bowls appearing outside shops downtown. Public art structures follow themes downtown, changing annually. Rollie’s Bar and Grill , Young’s Lobster Pound, and Dockside Family Restaurant are top stops for fresh seafood. 

As someone with a strong sweet tooth, I must recommend Chocolate Drop Candy Shop which has a wall with every flavor of jelly bean. Ice cream is also served here in a 1950s dinner style. Perry’s Nut House has divine fudge, a must stop for a sweet treat. 

Take a sunset sailboat ride around Penobscot bay, visit the Blue Alpaca Ranch & Store, or just stroll along the footbridge enjoying the harbor views. Your heart will fall for Belfast’s unique charm. 

Where to stay: Wonderview Cottages is about a ten-minute drive to downtown Belfast and gives you access to a private beach right on Penobscot Bay. The atmosphere is tranquil, the beach is full of rocks and seaglass, and most cottages are dog friendly. 

Rangeley, ME 

More of a lake person? Head Northwest to the gorgeous clear water of Rangeley Lake. Nature lovers will love the more remote setting, perfect for hiking, kayaking, and swimming. Downtown is small but hosts a couple of cute shops like Classic Provisions, where you can enjoy sandwiches, pastries, and smoothies right on the water.  

Quill Hill is a spectacular view point after a short drive up a unique landscape. The drive back into town is heavily populated with moose so drive very slow at dusk and keep your eyes peeled! 

Rangeley Lake State park is a perfect spot for picnics and hiking, and you can stay in the campsite where you have swimming access to Rangeley Lake. Camping here is much closer to nature, far from glamping .

If you are looking for a magical place to hike and swim, visit Cascade Gorge Stream Trail . Once you park, you hike for about 30 minutes until you come across a beautiful natural waterfall and crystal clear water perfect for swimming. 

Where to Stay : Modern Rangeley Cabin is a cozy and spacious cabin located not too far from downtown Rangeley.  

Bar Harbor, ME 

Located on Mount Desert Island, the largest island in Maine, Bar Harbor is one of the most popular summer destinations. This coastal town is right next to Acadia National Park , also the homeland of the Wabanaki. With camping sites, views of Frenchman Bay, and over 150 miles of trails, there are plenty of things to do around Acadia National Park . 

Drive 3.5 miles up to the summit of Cadillac Mountain, the tallest mountain on the eastern seaboard of the U.S. (just be sure to make a vehicle reservation if you are visiting from late May through October). Thunder Hole is another great spot where waves crash into the cliffs creating water sprays that reach up to 40 feet! 

Explore the vibrant marine life of Frenchman Bay by booking a trip with Diver Ed’s Dive-In-theater . Diver’s explore wildlife and then bring animals onto the boat in touch tanks where you can experience lobsters, starfish and Sea Cucumbers up close! However a good thing to note, the boat has a Newfoundland dog on board so make sure everyone in your party is comfortable with big dogs. 

The Bar Harbor Whale Watch & Nature Cruise also gives you up close views of seals and bald eagles.

Some things to keep in mind:

• Bar Harbor attracts large crowds so plan ahead to avoid midday traffic 
• It is recommended to take the fare-free island explorer bus instead of driving around the island

Where to Stay: Central House has an historic charm and is rumored to be haunted if that is your style.  Smuggler’s Den Campground is a great spot for camping about 30 minutes outside of the Bar Harbor and Terramor is one of the best glamping resorts in New England.

BoothBay Harbor, ME

Welcome to the midcoast gem of Boothbay Harbor, a quintessential summer destination. This town is full of life from Windjammer cruises , puffin and whale watching tours, and Railway Village rides , to botanical gardens and antique shops. If you are looking for a sweet treat, visit Downeast Ice Cream Factory or try some salt water taffy from Orne’s Candy Store. Both shops have a nice historic touch. 

The Maine State Aquarium is a great spot for young kids and animal lovers where you can touch sharks, hold molluscs, and picnic. The space is smaller so not too overwhelming, and there is a little gift shop to pick up some fun knick knacks. 

See more things to do in Boothbay Harbor .

Where to Stay: Harborage Inn on the Oceanfront is a cute bed and breakfast with water views that is a very short walk to all the downtown shops and restaurants.

Portland, ME 

The largest city in Maine, Portland , offers fun for all ages. Old Port is the historic part of the city which has unmatched food options and boutiques for shopping. I usually visit Portland on day trips, but you can easily fill up a weekend of activities.  

Flatbread Pizza is a longtime favorite known for their brick oven pizza, my personal recommendation being the cheese and herb or the homemade sausage pizza. Luke’s Lobster and the Portland Lobster Co. are my go-to spots for lobster rolls and fresh seafood.

The brewery scene is vibrant with beer tasting at Allagash Brewing Company . Museums like the Portland Museum of Art are a great attraction as well.   

Day trips via ferry around Casco bay islands, like Peaks island or Diamond Cove , is a great way to explore. Lobster boat tours are also available. The Portland Head Light located on Cape Elizabeth, is a picturesque lighthouse and museum in Fort Williams Park that is a must for any visitor to Maine (and grab a delicious lobster roll from the Bite into Maine food truck that sets up in the park.) 

Where to Stay: Portland can be pricey in the summer, but luckily there are new hotels such as Cambria Hotel Portland Downtown and the Longfellow Hotel to help ease the accommodation shortage.

Rockland, ME 

Along the midcoast of Maine lies the artsy town of Rockland . You can find yourself lost in the street art and downtown shopping, or walk along the Rockland Breakwater to see the historic lighthouse overlooking the harbor. Another great lighthouse in the area is Owls Head Lighthouse which gives views of Penobscot Bay. 

The  Farnsworth Art Museum  focuses on American art, particularly those with ties to Maine, while modern art lovers should plan a visit to the  Center for Maine Contemporary Art .

It’s good to keep in mind that Route 1 is the main way to get in and out of Rockland, and it can get quite congested during peak summer months. Also make sure to not miss the Maine Lobster Festival!

Where to Stay: 250 Maine Hotel has a modern touch and views of the water. 

Schoodic Peninsula/ Winter Harbor, ME

Want to visit Acadia National Park but skip the crowds? Schoodic Peninsula is located across from Mount Desert Island, but still national park land.  

Winter Harbor is located on the northern end of the peninsula and is only about a 45 minute drive to Bar Harbor and has a handful of restaurants and shops and you can board a small boat tour to see puffins.

The nature here is breathtaking, with the quintessential picture of pine trees down to the water. Both of these destinations are much more secluded, a common theme the further you head downeast closer you get to the Canadian border. 

Where to Stay: Mainstay Cottages & RV Park consists of oceanfront cottages on Henry’s Cove. 

Old Orchard Beach, ME

Seeking an exciting, bustling environment, with fun attractions around every corner? Walk the old school pier reaching out over the ocean where you can enjoy fresh seafood and live music at the Pier Patio Pub. 

New England’s only beachfront amusement park, Palace Playland , consists of thrill rides like the Sea viper roller coaster, but also has rides for the little ones like Convey where you ride a child-sized car. The old school atmosphere brings a nostalgic touch. 

The beach is vast with miles of flat sand fit for sunbathing, swimming, or beach sports, and has fireworks every Thursday starting around 9:45 p.m. during the summer season. It is one of the widest, most traditional sand beaches in the state.

Sebago Lake, ME

Sebago Lake is a great family friendly spot with a perfect amount of outdoor activities. Compared to lakes like Rangely, Sebago Lake is located in Southern Maine next to Long Lake, making it more accessible from the rest of New England and a fun day trip to Portland. 

When my family was younger, we camped in Sebago Lake Family CampGround which offered a cute community with nice amenities. Playing at the playground, biking around, roasting marshmallows at the campfire, and swimming at the beach were key memories. Sebago Lake water was clear, clean, and calm, and a bit warmer than Maine’s chillier oceans. 

In Naples Maine, we rented a pontoon boat which we took all around Sebago Lake and Long Lake. You can fish, jump off the boat, and swim around in the refreshing water. A perfect day on the lake. 

Where to Stay: Sebago Lake Family Campground

Fryeburg, ME

Heading west closer to the White Mountains is Oxford County’s oldest town, Fryeburg. This town is great for people who prefer lakes and mountains. Weston’s Beach is a highly recommended spot to relax on and swim in the calm Saco River. There are several water activities like tubing, kayaking, or paddle boarding in Saco River or Kezer Pond.

Bradley Memorial Park hosts concerts on Tuesdays, where you can also enjoy picnicking. If you are craving some delicious gourmet food, make a reservation at the Oxford House Inn restaurant , one of the top 100 restaurants in America according to Opentable! The cuisine is contemporary American styles with mixes of Asian, United States Southwestern, and French. 

Where to Stay: Oxford House Inn is higher end and centrally located. 

This midcoast beauty is upscale and a popular filming place for Hollywood movies. A cute harbor full of sailboats and a culturally rich downtown, makes for a perfect weekend getaway. 

Camden offers several festivals year-round, but in the summer you cannot miss Camden’s Jazz In June music festival. If you are looking to experience the nearby nature make sure to visit Camden Hills State Park . Hike Mt. Battie for beautiful views of Penobscot Bay. It is dog friendly and has a small tower at the summit where you can eat lunch. 

Where to Stay: Lord Camden Inn   

MooseHead Lake/ Maine Highlands, ME

Escape the bustle of crowds and venture deep into Maine to Moosehead Lake . As the largest body of water in Maine, Moosehead Lake stands as an oasis for wildlife and outdoor adventures. 

Lily Bay State Park is a popular spot with a fine pebble beach for swimming, two campgrounds, a playground, and docks for boating. 

Within the Maine Highlands , Baxter State Park is a beautiful place to hike and enjoy nature. Keep in mind that if you want to climb Mt. Katahdin, this is no breezy climb. Round trips on Mt. Katahdin ranges from 8 to 12 hours, so make sure to research and prepare and book a parking permit in advance.

Where to Stay: The Lodge at Moosehead Lake is a beautiful spot with fine dining and outdoor activities and Blair Hill Inn is another good choice. For more space, there are plenty of cabin rentals in this area as well.

Scarborough, ME

Located in between Old Orchard Beach and Portland, this cute Southern Maine town is a great family destination close to popular attractions. As a kid, my family vacationed at Bayley’s Camping Resort for three years. In true glamping fashion, the campsite had three pools, a movie theater, and a camp store where my siblings and I would practice our independence by using walkie talkies to get candy. Very safe, spacious, and private. Plus, adults get a hot tub!

Funtown Splashtown USA is only a ten minute drive away in Saco. Ride Maine’s only wooden roller coaster Excalibur, and then race down the water slide Amphitrite’s Challenge. Within Scarborough you can also enjoy Scarborough Beach State Park and Higgins Beach. 

Where to Stay: Bayley’s Camping Resort

Belgrade Lakes, ME

If you are seeking a peaceful and relaxing getaway, the Belgrade Lakes are for you. It is conveniently located about 10 miles from the capital, Augusta. Made up of a total of seven lakes, this area offers several water sports like boating, swimming, or fishing. 

When I visited, the dock outside our cabin was a perfect spot to fish as the sun set, located on a river that led into Messalonskee Lake. If you are a big golf fan you will love the nationally ranked Belgrade Lakes Golf Club, an immersive nature and golf experience. 

Where to Stay: Maine Cabin on the Water  is a cozy and spacious cabin with a dock for kayaking and fishing.  

Monhegan Island, ME 

Hop on a ferry from Boothbay Harbor or New Harbor and make your way to this square mile piece of magic. Monhegan Island is a charming small island full of rocky cliffs, and cozy cottages. Cathedral Woods consists of walking trails that attract artists to the island. Many visitors account for seeing fairy houses in the woods!

Visit the coffee shop The Mooring Chain for coffee, tea, bagels, and pastries. The local owners get fresh bagels from the Trailing Yew every morning.

Where to Stay: Monhegan House  is a bed & breakfast which offers the sound of ocean waves, scenic coastal views, and the opportunity to see artists. 

Find the place that speaks to you and plan your dream Maine summer vacation!

Visiting Maine? You may also be interested in…

• Boston to Bar Harbor road trip itinerary
• Planning a New York to Maine road trip
• Must try outdoor adventures in the Maine Highlands
• Off-the-beaten path Maine road trip

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Lily O’Neill is a freelance content writer set to graduate from the University of Massachusetts Amherst in spring 2024. She also blogs on her own website, Humanscrapbook , where she focuses on lifestyle, wellness and travel content. With a background in psychology and cultural anthropology, Lily combines social sciences and her own travels to craft meaningful stories.

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Publish Date: January 23, 2024

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Things to Do in Maine

From off the beaten path winter activities to charming cities and towns like Lewiston and Bar Harbor, there’s no shortage of things to do in Maine. Mountainside hikes through a kaleidoscope of fiery fall colors. Savory sea-to-table dinners in Portland. Cross-country glides through snow-covered pine. All waiting for you. Whether you’re looking for a summer family vacation or winter weekend getaway, these authentic experiences will leave you feeling inspired.

Activities & Attractions in Maine

Cities in Maine

Seasons to Visit Maine

Maine’s majestic mountains, deep woods and rocky coasts are home to awe-inspiring wildlife. You can sometimes spot whales right from the coast, but a whale watching cruise will give you a close-up view of humpback whales, pilot whales, minke whales, finback whales and more. Birdwatchers will find themselves in a state of bliss, especially if they’re hoping for a glimpse of puffins. Maine’s ocean islands make the perfect nesting sites for the orange-billed beauties, and Seal Island and Matinicus Rock at the mouth of Penobscot Bay are reliable viewing areas. To catch a glimpse of the king of the Maine woods, book a moose watching tour (or moose safari) from mid-May through July or in the fall.

• Whale Watching Trips
• Moose Watching
• Lighthouses & Sightseeing

Looking for a little perspective? Start by climbing the spiral staircases of a few of Maine’s 60 historic lighthouses. Whether you decide to make the rounds by car or by boat, plan on checking out a few icons like the Cape Neddick lighthouse in York , the Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth , and the West Quoddy Head Light in Lubec—the only red-and-white striped lighthouse in the country. Then be sure to cruise along one of Maine’s four National Scenic Byways. Acadia All-American Road—the only to be designated as an All-American Road—winds through Mt. Desert Island and Bar Harbor .

• Lighthouses
• Scenic Byways

Whether you want to catch some rays on Maine’s beautiful beaches or catch some thrills on a seaside roller coaster, family fun is never far away. From Kittery to Old Orchard Beach , Maine’s sandy beaches make the perfect summertime playground for the whole family. For a wild (and nostalgic) ride, head to Funtown Splashtown USA in Saco where you’ll find the state’s only wooden rollercoaster. And what better way to cap off a day of family fun than with a drive-in movie under the night sky?

• Amusement & Water Parks
• Animal Parks & Zoos
• On the Water

Hoist the sales. Grab a paddle. Hop on the ferry. Whether you take to the seas or make a splash whitewater rafting , these are adventures you won’t forget. And we can’t think of a better way to get acquainted with Maine’s epic maritime history than with a windjammer cruise. You can work the sails, lift the anchor, and even steer these old-school sailing vessels. Inland, you’ll have no problem finding a lake for a refreshing dip or to cast a line. Maine’s more than 30,000 miles of rivers and streams mean you’re in for some excellent fishing and thrilling rafting.

• Windjammer Cruises
• Explore Maine by Ferry
• Sea Kayaking

If frozen lakes, snowy slopes and endless trails sound like your kind of playground, then winter in Maine is for you. Try your luck at a little ice fishing, or bundle up for a day of adventure as you explore Maine’s thousands of miles of connected snowmobile trails . Quieter trails await when you opt for cross-country skis or snowshoes , but if you’re looking to make some downhill turns, Sunday River and Sugarloaf are just a couple of many ski resorts that offer plenty of adrenaline pumping runs.

• Ice Fishing
• Winter Towns
• Snowmobiling
• Ski Resorts
• Parks & Natural Attractions

Home to a dazzling national park and 32 state parks, Maine’s wild vistas will nudge you to lace up your hiking boots or set up camp. First stop, Acadia National Park. With jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic from Cadillac Mountain, winding carriage roads, and serene forests, it’s no wonder millions of people pay a visit to the park every year. But don’t be surprised if you find equally stunning landscapes at any of Maine’s 32 state parks or natural attractions, like Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument.

• Acadia National Park
• Two Lights State Park
• Arts & Culture

Maine’s breathtaking natural beauty isn’t the only thing that will leave you feeling inspired. Our arts and culture are thriving. No matter which part of the state you find yourself in, you’re sure to be close to one of Maine’s many music festivals. If it’s art museums you’re after, the nine museums along the Maine Art Museum Trail will give you plenty to ponder on a rainy day. At Maine theaters , you’ll find both amateur and professionals putting on shows you won’t forget. Maine’s historic districts, like Searsport , Bath , Belfast , Gardiner , Skowhegan , and Kennebunk , provide portals into both the state’s architectural and cultural past.

• Music Festivals
• Maine Art Museum Trail
• Historic Districts
• Dining & Nightlife

Craving some classic Maine lobster? You’ve come to the right place. But if you think the culinary adventure ends there, your taste buds are in for a pleasant surprise. There’s no shortage of food festivals that celebrate Maine staples. Take Eastport’s Salmon and Seafood Festival, the Pemaquid Oyster Festival or the Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland. The state’s craft brewery scene is buzzing, and the Maine Beer Trail puts you on the path to sudsy satisfaction. Plus, you're bound to stumble upon a food truck or two while you’re out sipping brews, especially in the foodie haven of Portland .

• Maine Food Festivals
• The Maine Beer Trail
• Lobster Shacks
• Hiking & Climbing

There’s no better way to get to know the towering mountains of Maine than by taking them one step at a time. Going up. Acadia National Park and Maine’s many state parks offer the perfect launch pad for a day of hiking. Tumbledown Mountain and Pleasant Mountain are both great springtime hikes, while Mount Katahdin (Maine’s tallest peak) is best tackled in summer. You’ll find plenty of kid-friendly hikes, too. In Acadia National Park , Wonderland Trail takes you from the woods to the sea and back on a winding (flat) path. For an extra challenge, Acadia National Park contains dozens of rock climbing routes, but you can find plenty more in Camden and Maine’s western mountains, like Shagg Crag.

• Hikes with Kids
• Hiking Maine Mountains
• Rock Climbing

Maine is home to original makers and shakers, and their detailed work is your one-of-a-kind find. From Portland’s boutiques to the Kittery Outlets , shopping in Maine is as unique as the landscape. Maybe you’ll take home a colorful reclaimed lobster trap rope doormat from the Maine Float Rope Company, or—an all-time classic—a pair of L.L.Bean boots. If you’re with a group that has diverse tastes, or you’re not quite sure what you’re looking for, Freeport is the place to be. Home to more than 120 outlets and scores of boutiques and specialty shops, one day might not be enough.

• Maine Makers
• Pottery & Ceramic Art
• Maine Made Products

Popular Towns & Cities in Maine

From charming main streets to Portland’s buzzing culinary scene, cities in Maine offer surprise after surprise. Whether it’s natural splendor, handmade crafts, or unique cuisine, you’ll find something to do, see and savor in every corner of the state.

You’ll find plenty of things to do in Maine’s biggest city. If you fancy yourself a foodie, you’ve come to the right place. Michelin Star restaurants are just as much at home here as the plentiful food trucks. You’ll find the city is a coastal creative hub. Be sure to check out a concert at the State Theater or an exhibition at the Portland Museum of Art .

Perched on Mount Desert Island , Bar Harbor offers plenty of opportunities to get outdoors and enjoy some of Maine’s most beautiful landscapes. Climb Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park , check out the oceanarium, or get a front-row seat at a lumberjack show in nearby Trenton.

The scenic coastal town of Ogunquit is a laid-back summer hideaway where you can hit the beach, go deep-sea fishing, or head out for some seasonal whale watching . After some sailing or kayaking , head to the boutiques and antique shops for a special find.

Spend your time in Kittery exploring antique shops, stopping at charming pubs, and checking out its historic homes . Shoppers will love the Kittery Outlets . Situated right across the border from New Hampshire, the coastal town is known as the "Gateway to Maine."

What’s a giant statue of mythic Paul Bunyan doing towering over Bangor? Keeping watch over what was once the “Lumber Capital of the World.” You can thank Bangor’s lumber boom of the early 1800s for the architectural masterpieces you’ll find perusing the mansions of the Broadway Historical District, where novelist Stephen King calls home. Don’t be surprised if you feel like you’re walking through a scene from one of his books.

Pack your beach towel. The coastal town of York is framed by beautiful sand beaches perfect for a hot summer day. While you’re in town, view the Nubble Lighthouse . There’s a good chance you’ll recognize its crimson roof and white tower—it’s one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world.

Welcome to the state capital of Maine. Stop by the State House for a look at the impressive granite architecture and domed tower, and then check out some regional history at the Maine State Museum. Constructed in 1754 and now the oldest original wooden fort in New England, Old Fort Western lets you take a step back in time for a unique glimpse into the state’s rugged history.

Come for the shopping. Stay for the uniquely Maine trails. Freeport is home to more than 120 outlets and the L.L.Bean Flagship Store . If it’s hand-crafted, Maine-made goods you’re after, you’ll be sure to find some at the numerous boutiques and small local shops. Once you’ve had your shopping fix, head to Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park for some fresh coastal air on the ocean-side hiking trails.

Art lovers will feel right at home in Brunswick where the Bowdoin College Museum of Art —on the National Register of Historic Places—displays its unique collection. Take a stroll or cruise along the river on the Androscoggin Bicycle and Pedestrian Path.

In Belfast, Friday summer evenings are best enjoyed at the Belfast Art Gallery Walk. Peruse more than fifteen galleries, take in the sounds of music on the charming streets, and enjoy farm-fresh cuisine.

The towns of Biddeford and Saco are neighbors across the Saco River . Summertime memories are made at Funtown Splashtown USA , a thrilling amusement and water park in one. Soak up the sun at Ferry Beach State Park , or check out the Wood Island Lighthouse .

Check out quirky technological history at the Telephone Museum , or take a walk on the grounds of the Woodlawn Museum, Gardens & Park . A canoe trip down the Union River is refreshing on a hot summer day, and the Birdsacre Stanwood Wildlife Sanctuary is peaceful place for birdwatching .

Cape Elizabeth

If you’re looking for panoramas of quintessential coastal Maine, this little town should be at the top of your list. Home to both the Portland Head Lighthouse and Two Lights State Park , you can spend your days walking the dramatic coastline taking in views of the Atlantic and historic towers.

Auburn & Lewiston

Every August, colorful balloons dot the sky over these towns on the banks of the Androscoggin River . Whether you want to take a balloon ride, or admire the kaleidoscope of floating color from below, the Great Falls Balloon Festival is a can’t-miss. Gritty McDuff’s Brewpub is a popular place in Auburn where you can launch a canoe or kayak at the base of Great Falls and the old mills along the river. In January, check out the Auburn Winter Festival.

Situated on the southern shore of Maine’s largest lake, Greenville makes the perfect home base for days filled with fishing, boating and hiking. For a birds-eye view of Moosehead Lake , make your way to Mount Kineo and climb to the summit where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views from its nearly 800-foot cliff.

It’s all about getting on the water in Naples. Long Lake and Brandy Pond beg to be explored, and you can easily rent kayaks or jet skis right in town. If you’re not on the water, why not get over it? Experience the thrill of a seaplane ride for an aerial view of the majestic landscape.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite exploring the town’s charming streets and the Castle Tucker Federal-style mansion, you’ll be ready for a lobster roll from Red’s Eats. Don’t worry if there’s a line. They’re just that good. Then head to the Maine Crafter's Marketplace at the Maine Heritage Village to look for something unique to take home.

Summer waves give way to fall colors, and winter runs turn into spring trails. In Maine, each season offers its own unique wonders.

Maine’s long summer days create lifelong memories. Whether you kick back on one of Maine’s many beaches in July, give surfing a go (yep, surfing is pretty big here), or head out for a sail , the coast is the place to start enjoying the warmer weather. If you’re looking for the quintessential summer camp experience for the kids, look no further. Lover of the links? Maine’s a golf paradise , and we highly recommend starting with the Belgrade Lakes Golf Club . Be sure to pack your hiking boots. From camping to kayaking to mountain climbing , Acadia National Park and Maine’s state parks offer endless outdoor adventure. Surrounded by such beautiful landscapes, it’s no wonder summer weddings are so popular.

Nothing compares to Fall in Maine. In October, the coasts and mountainsides are illuminated with the blazing yellows, reds and oranges of autumn foliage . Some of the best leaf-peeping can be found from atop a lighthouse or along a scenic byway . Fall is an excellent time for hiking as the days are cooler and the views are beautiful from atop a scenic overlook. In the crisp air and quiet woods, sportsmen will find the stage is set for an unforgettable hunting or fishing experience, while Maine’s legendary guides will be ready to showcase the state’s natural beauty.

When temperatures drops and the snow falls, there’s nothing wrong with hunkering down next to the fire with a good book and some hot chocolate—especially at a cozy Maine B&B . But that’s only half the fun during winter in Maine. Winter offers its own endless adventures like skiing and snowboarding in the Maine mountains, snowshoeing , cross-country skiing , snowmobiling and ice fishing . After a day spent trekking through the woods or carving some black diamonds, Maine’s spas will have you rejuvenated and ready to go for the next day.

Springtime is the right time to start thinking about getting back on the water, and there’s no better introduction than a little whitewater rafting . On the coasts, lobster boats and windjammers are getting ready to head out again, while whale watching is just beginning. Springtime is also great for fishing and there are plenty of Maine Guides who can take you out. If you’re looking for something more relaxed, try a garden tour at Coastal Maine Botanical Garden (in Boothbay Harbor ) and Thuya Garden (near Bar Harbor ) or just take a stroll along a beach!

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The 27 best things to do in maine in 2024.

From beaches to Bean Boots, Maine has something for everyone.

The Best Things to Do in Maine

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The Pine Tree State is first and foremost a nature lover's paradise. Close to 90% of Maine is forest land, including 32 state parks and Acadia National Park, its indisputable crown jewel. Maine also offers an impressive selection of top-notch restaurants, a bustling art scene and tons of family-friendly activities year round. Whether you're looking to ski down Sugarloaf Mountain, admire sculptures at the Farnsworth Art Museum or devour endless lobster rolls along the coast, a getaway to Maine promises a fun-filled trip that you won't soon forget. Read on for more details on the top things to do in Maine.

Acadia National Park

Scenic Acadia National Park is a major draw for vacationers and Maine residents alike. One of the 10 most visited national parks in the country, Acadia draws 4 million visitors annually with its secluded beaches, rugged mountains, dense forests and craggy coastal views along the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can get their hearts pumping on close to 160 miles of hiking trails, the most popular of which include the Beehive Loop, the Jordan Pond loop, and the Cadillac Mountain North Ridge and South Ridge trails. Cadillac Mountain is a particularly popular spot for sunrise and sunset, as the highest point on the East Coast and the first place in the U.S. to see sunrise from early October to early March.

For a more secluded experience of Acadia National Park 's natural beauty, wander the west side of Mount Desert Island or take a ferry to Isle au Haut, where fewer tourists take the time to venture. In addition to hiking, visitors can bike, kayak, swim, bird-watch and stargaze in the park. When hunger strikes, head to Acadia's sole dining venue: the Jordan Pond House Restaurant. According to recent travelers, the eatery's signature popover bread and tea – permanent menu items since the 1890s – are not to be missed.

Portland has all the offerings of a quintessential Maine destination (outdoor activities and lobster rolls abound), but it also boasts noteworthy art, food and entertainment scenes. Must-dos on a Portland vacation include exploring the shops and restaurants that line the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Port district, strolling along the Eastern Promenade waterfront park, perusing the Portland Museum of Art and indulging in local beers on a brewery tour.

Traveler-approved hotels include the Portland Harbor Hotel and The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection , and world-class eateries like Duckfat, Eventide Oyster Co., Central Provisions and DiMillo's on the Water (a floating restaurant) are sure to impress. For an even cozier stay, check out the top bed-and-breakfasts in Portland .

Shop at the flagship L.L.Bean Store

Serena Folding | Courtesy of Visit Portland

Whether you've owned the signature Bean Boots your entire life or simply want to see what this Maine-made retailer is all about, a visit to L.L.Bean's flagship location is a must if you're in the charming town of Freeport (less than 20 miles northeast of Portland).

Opened in 1917, the multilevel venue attracts 3 million visitors annually. Snap a photo out front with the 16-foot all-weather boot replica before perusing the store's many outdoorsy departments, from apparel to camping to fishing supplies. The flagship location also features a 3,500-gallon aquarium and historical displays throughout the store, but what impressed previous visitors most is the huge selection of items. The best part? You can visit this L.L.Bean whenever your schedule allows, as it is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Address: 95 Main St., Freeport, ME 04032

Considered the gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is an excellent place to unwind and reset. Nature lovers will find endless ways to enjoy the outdoors in this Mount Desert Island town, including coastal walks along Frenchman Bay (a traveler favorite), as well as cultural experiences like downtown Bar Harbor's Abbe Museum. Sharing the history and culture of the Wabanaki, the Native people of Maine, this museum is the state's only Smithsonian Affiliate.

Foodies will be pleased in Bar Harbor, too: Fresh seafood is the destination's specialty, but its artisan ice cream shops, craft breweries and quaint breakfast cafes are also crowd-pleasers. When it's time to bed down, stay at the idyllic Balance Rock Inn , the luxurious Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina (a seasonal property) or a local vacation rental. You also can't go wrong with one of Bar Harbor's best B&Bs .

Take a whale watching cruise

From May to October, animal lovers are in for a special treat. You can watch in wonder as majestic humpback, pilot, minke and finback whales feed and bask in the state's coastal waters. Whale watching hot spots include Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor, Portland and Kennebunkport.

Hop aboard a boat tour with a company like Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. or Cap'n Fish's Cruises for the best vantage point – and don't forget to bring your camera, binoculars, sunscreen and layers of clothing, as temperatures can dip as you sail away from the mainland. Recent travelers recommended taking a cruise at sunset for the best views, though early morning tours provide some of the best natural lighting and calmest waters.

Cape Elizabeth and the Portland Head Light

The quaint seaside town of Cape Elizabeth is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to the Portland area. Its postcard-worthy crown jewel is the Portland Head Light – the oldest lighthouse in Maine. Located in scenic Fort Williams Park, the lighthouse dates back to the late 1700s and stands 80 feet tall.

When you're finished photographing the structure, head into the adjacent keepers' house museum (open seasonally) to learn more about the history of the lighthouse. Spend the rest of the day in Cape Elizabeth at Crescent Beach State Park or Two Lights State Park before heading back to Portland or bedding down at local accommodations, such as traveler-loved Inn by the Sea , which is pet-friendly .

Ogunquit has all the makings of a relaxing getaway, complete with an old-fashioned trolley to help you explore the quaint town in summer. Spend your days sunbathing and swimming at the roughly 3-mile-long Ogunquit Beach or more secluded Footbridge Beach, or wander through the Ogunquit Museum of American Art (open seasonally) to admire more than 3,000 works.

Recent travelers praise the sights along Marginal Way, a 1.25-mile coastal walking path connecting Ogunquit Beach and Perkins Cove, which is a charming fishing village with shops and restaurants. Grab a lobster roll at Footbridge Lobster in Perkins Cove or indulge in American fare at nearby That Place in Ogunquit. Close out the perfect day with a show at Ogunquit Playhouse and a stay at luxurious Cliff House Maine just south of town.

Kennebunkport

There are plenty of beach destinations to choose from in Maine, but Kennebunkport should be at the top of your list. Plan to spend your entire vacation on (or at least near) the water, whether you're fishing, sunbathing or sailing. Traveler-approved spots include Colony and Goose Rocks beaches, the small fishing village of Cape Porpoise, and Dock Square's boutique shops and galleries.

Visitors can grab fresh seafood at The Clam Shack or dine at the White Barn Inn Restaurant – a Forbes Five Star- and AAA Five Diamond-designated eatery. When it comes to lodging, take your pick of luxurious properties like Nathaniel Lord Mansion – one of the most charming B&Bs in the U.S. – or book one of the area's quaint inns and cottages.

Make a spooky stop at Stephen King's House

Courtesy of the Maine Office of Tourism

Although tours inside of the legendary horror novelist's spooky residence are not available and King lives elsewhere now, travelers still agree that a quick stop at Stephen King's house is a must when traveling through Bangor, Maine. From the outside, visitors can see (and take photos of) the red Victorian mansion's quirky features, from the spider- and dragon-adorned iron fence to the front yard's intricate wood sculpture, which was carved out of a dead tree and features an array of mystical creatures surrounding a bookcase.

Recent visitors say that the property is especially eerie in the fall, and many recommend signing up for a roughly three-hour excursion with SK Tours to learn more about locations where King has lived, worked and filmed some of his most iconic movies.

Address: 47 W. Broadway, Bangor, ME 04401

Monhegan Island

Past travelers agree that Monhegan Island – which is only accessible by boat – is a lovely place to spend a day. Located about 10 miles off the coast and home to only around 100 year-round residents, the unspoiled island features wildlands with 9 miles of cliffside hiking trails, a small village with shops and restaurants, a lighthouse, a brewery, and an art and history museum. A few inns and other lodging options dot the island, so you can stay overnight if you wish.

Visitors have a few different options to reach the island. One choice is an hourlong ferry ride from the mainland town of New Harbor between May and mid-October with Hardy Boat Cruises. Or, leave from Boothbay Harbor on a 90-minute ride with Balmy Day Cruises, which is in service from June to mid-October. Planning your trip at another time of year? No problem. Monhegan Boat Line also offers year-round ferry service to the island from Port Clyde.

Stop to smell the flowers at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Courtesy of Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

As the largest botanical garden in New England, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are a sight to behold. Vacationers in Boothbay (about 60 miles northeast of Portland) had endless praise for the seasonally opened, well-maintained gardens, noting how beautiful and enjoyable the visit was for family members of all ages. You can explore 300-plus acres of colorful exhibits, including a dahlia garden, a butterfly house, a bee habitat, a meditation garden, several lawns and lush forest grounds with massive recycled-wood troll sculptures hidden among the trees.

Address: 105 Botanical Gardens Drive, Boothbay, ME 04537

Old Orchard Beach

For a beach vacation in the Pine Tree State that checks all the boxes, head to Old Orchard Beach. The coastal resort town about 20 miles south of Portland boasts 7 miles of sand to stretch out on, as well as a pier with restaurants and shops. Families especially love the Palace Playland amusement park, which features a Ferris wheel, adventure rides and arcade games. Popular lodging options in town include beach house rentals, motels and inns directly on the water; try The Edgewater, which is beachfront and family-owned, for perks like a heated pool and an electric car charging station.

Baxter State Park

To embrace Maine's gorgeous natural spaces without the crowds of Acadia National Park, pay a visit to Baxter State Park. The roughly 210,000-acre park sits in the center of northern Maine near the town of Millinocket, around 70 miles north of Bangor. It is home to Maine's tallest mountain, Mount Katahdin, which towers about 5,270 feet tall.

The hike to the top of the mountain is strenuous (and not recommended for inexperienced climbers), but the fabulous views are worth the effort, according to past visitors. Still, travelers of all skill levels can embrace the outdoors by setting up a tent at one of 300-plus campsites and hiking through your choice of about 215 miles of trails. If you're lucky, you may see wildlife like moose and deer as you journey through the wilderness (just keep an eye out for bears too).

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Chow down at the Maine Lobster Festival

Courtesy of Maine Lobster Festival

Maine is famous for its lobster – and it's home to some unique lobster-centric experiences. Try your hand at catching your own crustaceans with a cruise like Lucky Catch in Portland. Participate in hauling up a lobster trap or sit back and relax until it's time to take your catch to Portland Lobster Company to dine overlooking the harbor. Farther north in Boothbay Harbor, join Cabbage Island Clambakes for a traditional Downeast clambake, which includes fish chowder, two lobsters and much more. The tradition dates back to 1947 and takes place on private Cabbage Island, an hourlong boat ride from Boothbay Harbor.

If you're visiting Maine near the first weekend in August, head to Rockland (located about 85 miles southwest of Bar Harbor) with tens of thousands fellow attendees for the annual five-day Maine Lobster Festival. More than 20,000 pounds of delicious local lobster are brought in to feed the masses, and the festival features seafood cooking contests, live music, arts and crafts vendors, a parade, wine and beer tastings, 5K and 10K races, and more for patrons of all ages.

Sugarloaf Mountain

Located in Carrabassett Valley in western Maine, Sugarloaf Mountain is a year-round getaway for travelers looking to get active. In the warmer months, vacationers can hike, mountain bike, play disc golf and go zip lining. But visitors say Sugarloaf truly shines in the winter with its cold weather sports: It offers the only lift-serviced, above-treeline skiing in the eastern U.S. and is the largest ski area east of the Rocky Mountains. Snow lovers can participate in cross-country skiing on more than 30 miles of trails, as well as snowshoeing and ice skating.

After a full day of activity, get some rest at the on-site Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel, or rent out a condo or private home if you're traveling with a group.

Unleash your inner child at Funtown Splashtown USA

Endless fun awaits at Funtown Splashtown USA. The appropriately named entertainment venue in Saco (less than 20 miles south of Portland) consists of two sections: a water park and an amusement park . Visitors looking to get their hearts pumping can enjoy thrill rides like Maine's only wooden rollercoaster, the longest and tallest log flume in New England, or a drop tower that sends travelers into a 220-foot free fall. Younger patrons will have their pick of tamer amusement park attractions as well, including a kiddie train, bumper boats and a classic carousel.

Meanwhile, on the wetter side of the park, travelers can zoom down the Poseidon's Plunge waterslide, splash in the lagoon and load the whole family onto a raft slide. Recent travelers said their children had a blast at the park. For those looking to avoid theme park prices on refreshments, outside food and nonalcoholic drinks are welcome in the park at picnic areas. After a fun-filled day, retire to The Beachwood in nearby Old Orchard Beach, which has direct beach access and amenities like barbecue facilities.

Address: 774 Portland Road, Saco, ME 04072

Peruse the Farnsworth Art Museum

Courtesy of Farnsworth Art Museum

Located in Rockland, the Farnsworth Art Museum houses more than 15,000 pieces that highlight Maine's role in the history of American art. Opened in 1948, the 20,000-square-foot museum features rotating exhibits highlighting artists like sculptor Louise Nevelson and painter Andrew Wyeth. Recent travelers praised the curated collection of works, noting that the museum was well worth the trip to Rockland. After touring the museum, grab a meal at a restaurant nearby, such as upscale farm-to-table eatery Primo or the casual family-owned Hill's Seafood Co.

Address: 16 Museum St., Rockland, ME 04841

Unwind at Terramor Outdoor Resort

Courtesy of Terramor Outdoor Resort

An idyllic Bar Harbor escape situated just 4 miles north of Acadia National Park, Terramor Outdoor Resort opened in 2020 and offers a blend of nature and luxury, making it one of the top glamping resorts in the U.S. Spend your vacation hiking, fishing, stargazing, enjoying a meal at the Lodge, or soaking in the pool and hot tub.

Each stylish glamping tent is outfitted with electricity, a portable cooler and heater, Wi-Fi access, and a fire pit. Some have private bathrooms and additional perks like patio space. Past guests at the property had tons of praise for the resort, highlighting the clean and comfortable accommodations, lovely location and friendly staff.

Address: 1453 State Route 102, Bar Harbor, ME 04609

Victoria Mansion

Open seasonally from May through October (and again for the winter holiday season), Victoria Mansion was constructed in the mid-1800s as a private home. Also referred to as the Morse-Libby House, the Portland residence first opened as a museum in 1941. The mansion is influential interior designer Gustave Herter's only surviving commission, and it portrays some of the most well-preserved Italian villa-style architecture in the country. Victoria Mansion offers both guided and self-guided tours that showcase stunning artifacts and one-of-a-kind decor. Recent travelers were thoroughly impressed by the property and found the tours to be informative.

Address: 109 Danforth St., Portland, ME 04101

Hop around the Casco Bay Islands

The Casco Bay Islands encompass an assortment of coastal towns near Portland offering plenty of fun things to do. The relaxed, small-town vibe in some of these Casco Bay communities provides ideal settings to unwind with bike rides, scenic walks and tasty seafood.

Peaks Island is the most popular island because of its many amenities and proximity to Portland, but visitors who would like a more comprehensive taste of the area should consider the traveler-approved Mailboat Run day cruise. Operated by Casco Bay Lines, the roughly three-hour tour visits five different islands – Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Cliff Island, Long Island and Chebeague Island – and gives a bit of history on each. Opportunities to stay on-island include The Inn on Peaks Island, the secluded Inn at Diamond Cove and private house rentals.

Wander the Wadsworth-Longfellow House

Managed by the Maine Historical Society, the Wadsworth-Longfellow House is a National Historic Landmark that dates back to 1785. It housed three generations of Wadsworth and Longfellow family members, the most well known of whom was Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, an important literary and cultural figure in 1800s American society. Today, visitors can tour the Portland house from June to October to see many original household artifacts, as well as the lush Longfellow Garden located behind the property. Recent travelers felt the home was well preserved and enjoyed exploring at their leisure.

Address: 489 Congress St., Portland, ME 04101

Maine Maritime Museum

Courtesy of Maine Maritime Museum

At the Maine Maritime Museum, vacationers can learn all about the state's nautical history while taking in views of the Kennebec River. The 20-acre campus in Bath features both indoor exhibits and a large outdoor shipyard for visitors to explore. Traveler favorites include the museum's short historical films, an impressive collection of ship machinery, and displays of maritime artifacts and artwork. After touring the premises, visitors can finish out the day with one of the museum's river cruises to learn more about the shipyard or view local wildlife and nearby lighthouses (available seasonally).

Address: 243 Washington St., Bath, ME 04530

Take in the views at Nubble Lighthouse

Maine has no shortage of lighthouses to choose from, but the Nubble Lighthouse (also called Cape Neddick Light Station) is worth a visit if you're in the town of York. Built in 1879, the structure – which is on the National Register of Historic Places – welcomes visitors throughout the year to paint, take photos, fish or settle in for a picnic. Recent travelers reported the picturesque stop was worth the trip for the views alone, noting the lighthouse and ocean vistas are beautiful no matter the season. When planning your visit, keep in mind that the gift shop and restrooms are only open seasonally, typically from April or May to October.

Address: Sohier Park Road, York, ME 03909

Grab a beer at Allagash Brewing Company

Courtesy of Allagash Brewing Company

Located in Portland, Allagash Brewing Company is an independent craft brewery that receives rave reviews from travelers and locals alike. Its signature Belgian-style wheat beer – Allagash White – is a must-taste, but just about every palate will find a sour, barrel-aged, wild or spontaneously fermented beer that tickles their fancy. Visitors can enjoy their brews in the family-friendly tasting room or purchase tickets for a more curated hourlong tasting session of five beers in The Cellars.

Past patrons loved the brewery's relaxed atmosphere both indoors and outdoors, as well as the delicious beers and on-site food truck, which serves up lobster rolls and other Maine specialties. Make it a brewery-hopping event by visiting some of the lesser known but still beloved breweries, including Foundation Brewing Company and Definitive Brewing Company, on the same road.

Address: 50 Industrial Way, Portland, ME 04103

Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum

Courtesy of Bowdoin College

Affiliated with Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine – around 25 miles northeast of Portland – the Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum is a unique attraction showcasing all things Arctic. Named in honor of Robert E. Peary and Donald B. MacMillan, graduates of the college from the late 1800s who explored the Arctic region, the museum houses expedition equipment, natural history specimens and other objects of interest. Past exhibits have detailed the history of women's contributions to Arctic exploration and research, traditional and contemporary music as a part of Inuit society, and more.

Previous visitors enjoyed perusing the free attraction, highlighting the exhibits with Arctic clothing, Inuit artwork and more. The museum recently moved to a brand-new state-of-the-art space: the John and Lile Gibbons Center for Arctic Studies, further positioning Bowdoin as a leader in Arctic research and education.

Address: 10 Polar Loop, Brunswick, ME 04011

Moosehead Lake

Maine has no shortage of beautiful lakes. Locals and visitors love Sebago and Rangeley, but there is something special about Maine's largest lake: Moosehead Lake, located a little more than 100 miles northwest of Bangor. Rent a canoe, kayak, or whatever water vessel floats your boat to explore the nearly 75,000 acres of fresh water. For a different vantage point, take the whole family for a hike above the lake via Mount Kineo – or opt for a less strenuous but no less exciting seaplane tour for aerial views.

Moose outnumber people three to one in this secluded area, so what better place to go on a moose safari? Recent safari-adventurers rave about Northwoods Outfitters' knowledgeable and personable guides. Wind down at one of the campgrounds and stare up at the Milky Way, or find traditional lodging and dining options in nearby towns like Greenville and Guilford.

Considered one of the most beautiful small towns in the U.S., Camden sits between the mountains and the sea (about 80 miles north of Portland). In winter, skiers delight in Camden's Snow Bowl, the only place on the East Coast where you can ski with ocean views. No matter the season, you'll enjoy strolling this quintessential coastal New England town for sophisticated shopping and award-winning dining options.

Head to Camden Hills State Park, where Mount Battie is a crowd favorite for its century-old tower and sweeping views. Reward your efforts with a sunset sail on a hand-built windjammer past picturesque Curtis Island Light, historic inns and mansions, and Maine wildlife. Top-rated hotels in the area include the elegant Hartstone Inn & Hideaway and the posh Camden Harbour Inn .

Frequently Asked Questions

Maine is an excellent destination for couples looking for a memorable vacation. Consider some of the following activities:

• Share a flight of beer at a brewery
• Wander down Marginal Way hand in hand
• Stay in a glamping-style tent at Terramor Outdoor Resort
• Ski at Sugarloaf Mountain
• Embark on a self-guided tour of Maine's many lighthouses
• Take a sunset whale watching cruise

For more options, take a look at the U.S. News picks for the top romantic getaways in Maine .

Groups of all ages will find plenty of things to do in Maine. Here are some of the best options:

• Hike and kayak at Acadia National Park
• Ride rollercoasters and waterslides at Funtown Splashtown USA
• Swim, build sandcastles and enjoy carnival rides at Old Orchard Beach
• Go on a moose safari near Moosehead Lake
• See fish at L.L.Bean's 3,500-gallon aquarium

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Mariya Greeley is a writer based in Portland, Maine. She grew up on the border of New Hampshire and Vermont, and though she has traveled to a dozen countries and lived everywhere from Maui to D.C., New England remains her favorite corner of the world to explore – usually with a book or dog leash in hand – and share through her writing.

Nicola Wood is a senior travel editor who has visited 26 countries (and counting). She researches destinations across the U.S. and abroad both for her job and her own future vacations. Maine is on her travel bucket list, and she's put in countless hours scouring the internet for the best places to stay, visit and eat – so you don't have to.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Places to Visit in Maine
• The Top Things to Do in New Hampshire
• The Top Things to Do in Vermont
• The Top Romantic Getaways in New Hampshire
• The Top Romantic Getaways in Vermont

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Tags: Travel , New England Vacations

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24 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Maine

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 20, 2024

Few states can claim as many iconic images as Maine: fully rigged Windjammers, waves breaking against a rocky coast, lighthouses, pine woods, and fishing harbors filled with boats. The miles of backwoods inhabited by moose hold their own mystique and images: a lone canoe barely riffling the mirror-like surface of a forest-encircled lake, or rainbow trout jumping from crystal waters.

The remarkable thing about Maine is that it doesn't disappoint tourists who arrive with these romantic pictures in mind. Lighthouses do crown points from York to Quoddy Head, and between them lie dozens of snug little fishing harbors and mile after mile of rocky wave-beaten shore.

But Maine's attractions aren't all in iconic images, and between its museums, breathtaking gardens, art heritage, historic attractions, outdoor activities, and natural wonders, you're spoiled for choice of things to do on a Maine vacation.

I've seen Maine's attractions from many perspectives -- Moosehead Lake from a kayak and from a float plane, vast stretches of snow-covered wilderness from ski trails on Sugarloaf and Sunday River -- but my favorite view is of the islands and lighthouses from the deck of a Maine Windjammer as it sails through Casco Bay.

Let me help you discover your own favorite view, with this list of the best attractions and places to visit in Maine.

1. Acadia National Park & Mount Desert Island

2. the old port and portland head lighthouse, 3. marginal way and ogunquit beaches, 4. pemaquid point light, 5. old orchard beach, 6. coastal maine botanical gardens, 7. farnsworth art museum, 8. boothbay harbor, 9. rockland, 10. bar harbor, 12. nubble lighthouse (cape neddick light), 13. maine maritime museum, 14. west quoddy head & lighthouse, 15. portland museum of art & winslow homer studio, 16. cruising the maine coast, 17. kennebunkport, 18. monhegan island, 19. victoria mansion, portland, 20. desert of maine, 21. peaks island, 22. bowdoin college museum of art, 23. wiscasset, map of attractions & places to visit in maine, best time to visit maine.

The rugged and beautiful stretch of coastline that is set aside as Acadia National Park also surrounds a large inland region of lakes, streams, and forests. It provides a playground for locals and visitors who enjoy the outdoors. The scenic Park Loop Road winds its way through the park past the main attractions and is the best way to tour the park by car.

The handy Island Explorer buses also connect the various attractions, while cyclists and walkers can follow the network of unpaved carriage roads, part of the more than 100 miles of hiking trails for all levels of ability. These include trails to the summit of 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain , the park's highest point, from which there are views of the coast and islands.

Other highlights in the park are Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and the dramatic chasm of Thunder Hole . A second and little-visited portion of Acadia National Park is farther north, on the Schoodic Peninsula , where there are more hiking trails, coastal views, and opportunities for kayaking. There are two large campgrounds in the park and several picnic areas.

Throughout Mount Desert Island are waterside villages overlooking small harbors. Of particular interest to garden lovers are Asticou Azalea Garden and neighboring Thuya Garden , both in Northeast Harbor. Asticou is a Japanese-inspired garden at its most spectacular in the spring, when the azaleas are in bloom around the pond. Thuya reaches its prime in June and July, when the perennial beds are at their showiest.

After strolling the paths through both these gardens, I cross the road to the historic Asticou Inn, where I sit on the verandah overlooking the gardens and harbor, and savor a pot of tea, with hot popovers slathered in wild blueberry jam. That's my idea of a perfect Maine afternoon.

• Read More: Acadia National Park: Best Hikes & Things to Do

Tourists looking for things to do in Portland invariably head straight for its harbor district, the Old Port. There, along with fishing boats, busy docks, and seafood restaurants, they may find a cruise ship or see the tall masts of a sailing ship, for Portland is still an active port.

The narrow streets that climb from the dockside Commercial Street are lined by the brick and stone buildings that supported one of the East Coast's busiest ports from colonial times through the 19 th century.

Shop for maritime souvenirs in a ships' chandlery, eat seafood on the wharf, and if you're there early enough, watch the fishing boats unload and local chefs choose the menu at the city's restaurants. Fore Street , which parallels Commercial, is where you'll find several of these. At the docks, you can board a cruise of Casco Bay or a ferry to visit its islands.

Tip: The island ferries that ply Casco Bay are the best bargain in town. You can take them to visit the individual islands, or you can just ride along on the entire circuit for a scenic cruise of the bay. In high season, if there are enough passengers, a tour guide shares interesting information on the islands, several of which have historic fortifications.

A landmark of Casco Bay is Portland Head Lighthouse , which marks the entrance to the harbor. It is one of the most beautiful along the coast, and from its promontory, you can see the city and Old Port, as well as the passing ships and boats.

The museum in the former Keeper's Quarters features exhibits on the lighthouses and their keepers, showing how these bastions of maritime safety have changed over the years with advances in technology. Along with historic photos, artifacts on display include Fresnel lenses and exhibits on how they work.

Address: 1000 Shore Road, Cape Elizabeth, Maine

The paved walking path along the shore from the center of Ogunquit to Perkins Cove is a beautiful way to see the rocky coast and its crashing surf.

Among the rocky cliffs are a series of small sandy coves that offer a more intimate beach experience than Ogunquit Beach, which is one of the most popular beaches in Maine . The Marginal Way is for walkers only (no bikes, no dogs from April to October) and runs about a mile and a half from the end of the village to the scenic wharfs of Perkins Cove .

Here, a slender peninsula shelters a small bay, creating a safe haven for small craft. Originally a small fishing port, today the harbor is overlooked by restaurants and small shops, but you'll still see plenty of fishing boats.

All along Marginal Way, benches are conveniently placed, both on the path and on overlooks above the sea. You can return to town on the same path, walk back along the shady Shore Road, or take the trolley.

Ogunquit Beach has a gentle slope to the sea and comparatively warm water, which makes it popular with families. The town's shops and restaurants are busy in the summer, and the thriving arts scene brings more tourists to the nationally known Ogunquit Playhouse and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art .

Author's tip: Around the museum (whose collections and special exhibitions are well worth seeing) are its outdoor exhibits, in a sculpture garden that slopes to the rocky shore. You can stroll through the gardens for free. Kids will love the largest of these works of art, the whimsical animal sculptures of Maine artist Bernard Langlais. Built from rough boards and scrap wood, the giant lion, horse, and rhino always bring smiles.

One of Maine's most iconic lighthouses stands at the end of the long Pemaquid Point in Mid-Coast Maine and is such a landmark that it was chosen as the image on the Maine quarter coin. It was built in 1835, and along with the light tower, the keeper's cottage and the brick sound signal house have been preserved. The setting is made even more dramatic by the unusual formations of striped metamorphic rock in the ledges below.

The keeper's cottage houses the Fisherman's Museum which preserves the region's strong fishing heritage, with captains' logs, models, dioramas, photos, and artifacts, including information on the shipwrecks off this point. The scenic point is a favorite site for picnics.

To the north, in New Harbor, Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site preserves the foundations of a colonial settlement and the reconstructed Fort William Henry . The museum and excellent sign boards explain the importance of this fort in the conflicts involving English and French settlers and the local Native Americans. The archaeological site has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

An unabashed old-fashioned beach resort, Old Orchard Beach revels in the somewhat tacky honky-tonk atmosphere of its pier and thrill rides at New England's only remaining full-scale amusement park on a beach. So kick off your shoes, step back into mid-century summer fun, and indulge in a little nostalgia.

Palace Playland has all the expected rides: a Ferris wheel right over the waves, a roller coaster, an old-fashioned carousel, bumper cars, and a dozen or so other kid-pleasers. Pier stands and street-side windows sell fries, soft ice cream, saltwater taffy, and fried dough.

The highlight of all this is a full seven miles of golden sand beach with free public access. The sands are scoured each night by volunteers, so you won't find a cleaner beach anywhere, and separating most of the seven miles of beach from the line of low hotels and shops is a barrier of grassy dunes.

Old Orchard is also the only Maine beach where you can arrive directly by train, which is one reason this is such a popular weekend getaway destination from Boston ; the Amtrak station is opposite the pier and amusement park.

Author's Tip: I can't go to Old Orchard Beach without a stop at Pier French Fries , a traditional stop for locals and tourists since 1932. Do you need French fries? Of course you do — it's part of the Old Orchard Beach experience.

Strolling the paths through this 270-acre garden, it's almost impossible to believe that the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens opened as recently as 2007. The profusion of bloom and the size of the well-manicured and creatively designed gardens achieve the sense that they have been pampered by generations of devoted horticulturalists.

The paths wind among the various themed gardens, showing native and exotic plants that thrive in woodland, water, and other environments. There is a kitchen garden, and a garden for the five senses spotlights plants for their fragrances, flavors, and textures, in raised beds for wheelchair access. The large children's garden will charm any age, as will the woodland village of fairy houses.

Walking trails traverse the grounds, which slope down to the shore and include various shore environments. Daily tours point out highlights and follow themes such as rare and native plants. A large collection of original sculpture by regional artists highlights the gardens, and art exhibitions are held in the visitor center throughout the spring, summer, and fall.

Tip to parents: The Children's Garden here is a major part of the extensive campus. Like the rest of the gardens, it is scattered with sculptures — these inspired by children's books written by Maine authors. My kids' favorite is the lifelike bronze of Sal's Bear , by Nancy Schon, based on Robert McCloskey's Blueberries for Sal .

Highlights of the themed gardens are a cottage with a grass roof, an arbor tunnel to walk through, a maze lawn, a giant tree house, and a fanciful fairy house.

Address: 132 Botanical Gardens Drive, Boothbay, Maine

In the heart of downtown Rockland, the Farnsworth Art Museum is one of New England's best, which is saying a lot in a region with such a rich art heritage. No other museum has such a complete collection of works by artists connected with Maine, and its Wyeth Center is one of only two in the country dedicated to the work of the three generations of Wyeths – N.C., Andrew, and James.

The Farnsworth Art Museum's collections include some of America's most prominent late 19th- and early 20th-century landscape painters. Along with the earliest known work by Thomas Cole, you can see paintings by George Bellows, Rockwell Kent, John La Farge, George Inness, Childe Hassam, and maritime artist Fitz Henry Lane.

A separate building, a former church on Union Street, exhibits works of James Wyeth and N.C. Wyeth. The Farnsworth also arranges tours of the Olson House, made famous in several works by Andrew Wyeth, the best-known of which is his 1948 painting Christina's World .

Author's Tip: Ask at the museum for directions to visit the Olson House, a farmhouse made famous by Andrew Wyeth in his 1948 painting Christina's World . You can see the exterior of the house, which stands on Hathorne Point Road in Cushing, Maine, or see the interior on a guided tour arranged through the museum.

Address: 6 Museum Street, Rockland, Maine

Once a busy shipping port, Boothbay Harbor today is primarily a popular summer resort, with the largest boating harbor north of Boston.

Schooner cruises, whale watches , lighthouse viewing trips, and island cruises begin here, sailing from a harbor so big that in the days of sail several hundred vessels could find safety here during a storm.

For the best view of the waterfront and all the boats, walk across the 1,000-foot-long Boothbay Harbor Footbridge, a wooden walkway across the harbor that's been a landmark since 1901. You can rent kayaks near the footbridge to explore the harbor and shore. In East Boothbay, Linekin Bay is popular for kayaking .

The downtown area is packed with waterfront seafood restaurants, antique shops, and art galleries, reflecting the more than 200 artists and craftspeople who live and summer in the area.

It has been a haven for the arts since the early 1800s, and along with studios and galleries, the little town has an Opera House and Carousel Music Theater , as well as a community band. Reflecting this love of the arts, the Boothbay Harbor Sculpture Trail leads past more than three dozen original sculptures decorating streets and public spaces.

You can learn more about marine wildlife at the Maine State Aquarium , and ride in a vintage coach behind a century-old steam locomotive at the Boothbay Railway Village .

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Boothbay Harbor, ME

Circling a large harbor protected by Owl's Head and a long stone breakwater, Rockland's historic downtown, lined with nicely maintained 19th-century brick mercantile buildings, speaks of a prosperous past.

This was a thriving port for the limestone quarried in the surrounding hills. Until the 1950s, the harbor was lined with kilns that processed the stone for shipment to eastern cities for use as mortar and plaster.

This old seaport town is worth a stop for several attractions, including Owl's Head Light and the Owl's Head Transportation Museum ; Rockland is one of the home ports for the Maine Windjammer Fleet, whose historic sailing ships you can often see moored here.

The town and the nearby islands of Penobscot Bay have long attracted artists, whose works you can see in Rockland's numerous galleries and museums.

You can visit some of the islands that inspired them, on ferries from downtown Rockland. Regular ferry departures can take you to Islesboro, where you can hike through a rare cedar swamp, or get away from the mainland crowds at one of the island's beaches. On Vinalhaven, you can hike through nature reserves, rent kayaks to explore the shoreline, or swim in a former granite quarry.

More than just a base for exploring Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is a lively town with a long history as an oceanside resort. Its streets are still lined by impressive "summer cottages" built during the Gilded Age, when wealthy city families came here to escape soaring city temperatures. Today several of these are elegant inns and B&Bs.

Stroll along Frenchman Bay as they did, following the Shore Path from Agrimont Park, for views of the bay and islands. Or at low tide, walk across the bar to Bar Island – but be careful to return before the water covers the track.

Shop in the classy boutiques and artisans' galleries; dine on ocean-fresh seafood; take a whale-watching cruise; and relax to the music of the town band, which plays on The Green two evenings a week in the summer.

The excellent Abbe Museum has an exceptional collection of Native American arts, and across the street from it is St. Savior Episcopal Church, with stunning Tiffany stained-glass windows .

Expect Bar Harbor to be less crowded on cruise ship days from now on; a limit has been imposed on the number and size of ships allowed to make a port stop here.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bar Harbor, ME

Just north of Rockland, Camden is Maine's other harbor for Windjammers , and you can often see these graceful tall ships in the large harbor. You can also take a two-hour schooner cruise from here.

The harbor sits just below Camden's busy Main Street (Route 1) and Bay View Street, where you'll find shops and galleries featuring everything from fashionable resort wear and fine art to dreamy knitting yarns and vintage garden ornaments.

For a harbor and island view unmatched anywhere south of Acadia National Park, climb or drive to the top of Mount Battie , in Camden Hills State Park, where hikers will find more than 30 miles of trails. For more trails, and beautiful flowers, stop at Merryspring Nature Center .

A block from the busy intersection of Elm and High streets, look for the colorful Riverhouse Footbridge , a garden of flower boxes and leafy arbors suspended over the short Megunticook River. After flowing under downtown buildings, the river ends in the dramatic little Megunticook Falls as it enters the harbor.

Camden's charms don't end when winter arrives. The Camden Snow Bowl claims two distinctions: it's the only ski mountain in the East with ocean views from its trails , and it's the home of a 400-foot toboggan chute . You can take a turn on the precipitous ice-covered track that hosts the annual U.S. National Toboggan Championships.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Camden, ME

Perhaps New England's most photographed lighthouse, and certainly one of the easiest to get to, Nubble Light poses on its own islet just off the rocky point of Cape Neddick. Especially on a rising tide, the surf usually obliges photographers with a few waves breaking into froth against the rocks.

In late November, the lighthouse and keeper's cottage are outlined in lights for the holiday season, and the annual lighting is celebrated with music, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa. You can take a cruise from Ogunquit to see the lighthouse from the water.

The point bounds one end of Long Sands, the largest of two popular beaches in York . The southern end of the beach is a favorite for surfers; York is known to those of us who grew up swimming there as the beach with the coldest water on the entire south coast.

In another of the four villages that make up the town, the Old York Historical Society museum complex includes Jefferds Tavern and the 1745 York Corner Schoolhouse , one of the oldest surviving in New England.

On the site of a 19th-century shipyard where large wooden sailing vessels were built and launched, the Maine Maritime Museum preserves and interprets Maine's seafaring, shipbuilding, and lobstering heritage.

Along with the extensive collection of artifacts and materials that make up exhibits on everything from the clipper ships and lighthouses to maritime art, the 20-acre campus includes a blacksmith shop, and a working shop for the restoration of wooden boats.

A highlight is a 36-foot section of the bow of the American clipper Snow Squall , built in Portland in 1851. It was retrieved on archaeological expeditions to the Falkland Islands, where it had run aground in 1864.

The more than 140 Maine-built or Maine-related boats in the collections include an antique birchbark canoe. The Mary E , the oldest fishing schooner built in Maine, is part of the floating collections, one of three in the museum that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Address: 243 Washington Street, Bath, Maine

The dramatic red-and-white stripes of its lighthouse, plus the thrill of standing at the easternmost point in the United States, make West Quoddy Head & Lighthouse one of the most popular places to visit on the northeast coast of Maine.

The brick lighthouse was opened in 1858, but there has been one here since 1808, when President Thomas Jefferson ordered it built to guide ships through the Quoddy Narrows. The current lighthouse is 49 feet tall, and the lantern rises 83 feet above the sea.

Learn more about the lighthouse and its history at the Quoddy Head State Park Visitor Center in the former Keeper's Cottage and take a tour of the light tower itself on Saturday afternoons in July and August. The lighthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places .

Five miles of hiking trails explore the point, which is a prime spot for viewing sea birds, especially during the spring and fall migrations. You might also spot humpback, minke, and finback whales in the narrows, which is bounded on the opposite side by the tall red cliffs of Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick.

An easy one-mile trail in the park leads to a coastal plateau bog, where you can see subarctic and arctic plants rarely seen this far south.

Address: South Lubec Road, Lubec, Maine

The superb collections of the Portland Museum of Art go far beyond the expected works of those artists who lived and painted here – artists such as Winslow Homer, Rockwell Kent, and the Wyeths.

Among the more than 18,000 pieces of fine and decorative art, dating from the 1700s onwards, are works by Monet, Degas, Picasso, Warhol, Sargent, Whistler, Mary Cassatt, Gilbert Stuart, Joshua Reynolds, Alexander Calder, George Bellows, and Edward Hopper.

The museum also features traveling and temporary exhibits throughout the year. Attached to the museum is a historic house, formerly home to a prominent Portland family, with outstanding examples of period furniture, art, and decorative details.

Separate from the Portland facility, and accessible only by tours that originate here, is the studio of artist Winslow Homer , overlooking the sea on Prouts Neck, a point of land in nearby Scarborough, Maine.

Address: 7 Congress Square, Portland, Maine

Don't miss the chance to see the craggy, irregular Maine coast and its rock-bound islands from the water. Not only will you get a new perspective on the lighthouses and granite cliffs, but you'll have a chance to be part of the busy harbor life of Maine's seaport towns.

The options are many. You can join a whale watching tour from Bar Harbor, go deep sea fishing from Eastport, take a Puffin Tour to Machias Seal Island from Jonesport or Stonington, join a lobster boat out of Portland to haul traps, or take a seal cruise from there to Eagle Island.

From Boothbay Harbor, you can go deep-sea fishing, take a day sailing cruise along the coast, go whale watching, or even join a local lobsterman hauling traps. From Ogunquit, you can take a breakfast sightseeing tour or cruise to see York's Nubble Lighthouse from the water.

Boat experiences can be as short as the 15-mile ferry ride from Rockland to Vinalhaven or a week-long cruise under sail on a Maine Windjammer out of Rockland or Camden. Windjammer cruises are informal, with the itinerary determined by winds and tides, and passengers can help with the lines and sails if they wish. Special theme cruises may feature lighthouses, music, star gazing or boat races.

Most of the windjammers are suitable for adults only, although those as young as 12 are welcome on some ships — a popular vacation option for grandparents traveling with teens. Couples looking for a romantic vacation should book one of the full moon cruises.

The little coastal town of Kennebunkport, 12.5 miles south of Portland, is very popular in summer. Stately homes of former ship captains and owners, some of which have been carefully restored as bed-and-breakfasts, line its quiet streets, and you can learn about these on a self-guided walking tour, or at the Historical Society's First Families Kennebunkport Museum , in an 1853 Greek Revival home.

Shopping and gallery-hopping are favorite pastimes in the small commercial area of restored dockside buildings around Dock Square, which is lined with shops, studios, boutiques, and restaurants. Parsons Way, a scenic path, begins from the square and leads along the shore to Walker's Point . At the other side of the Kennebunk River, a series of sandy beaches line the shore.

Two miles east of Dock Square is the still-active fishing village of Cape Porpoise , with more shops and galleries, along with working lobster boats. Also of interest is the Seashore Trolley Museum .

In nearby Kennebunk, look for the outstanding Brick Store Museum and drive past the fanciful Wedding Cake House on Summer Street. The entire street, designated as the Summer Street Historical District, is lined with elegant Victorian mansions.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Kennebunkport, ME

Monhegan is a small island that lies 10 miles off the coast of Maine, and although it's one of many inhabited coastal islands, it has achieved iconic status over the years. This is in large part due to its long history as an artists' colony, coupled with the many tales of its hardy population and their lives on this storm-swept outpost.

There are no cars or paved roads on the island, and its 75 year-round residents are mainly engaged in fishing and lobstering. During the summer, visitors can take day trips to the island from Boothbay Harbor, New Harbor, and Port Clyde, but will have only three or four hours ashore.

Monhegan's combination of rugged granite cliffs (the highest ocean cliffs in Maine), crashing waves, and unique light, coupled with its air of an untouched fishing village, has made it a destination for artists since the middle of the 1800s. Because of this long-term art colony and the several dozen artists who currently work there, you'll find an abundance of studios and galleries.

Monhegan's art colony began in the mid-1800s, and by the turn of the 20 th century was a well-established summer colony. Artist Rockwell Kent built a home and studio there, later the studio of painter James Edward Fitzgerald.

Now a gallery of his work, the James Fitzgerald – Rockwell Kent Historic Artists' Home and Studio is managed by the Monhegan Museum of Art & History, whose collections include works by both of these artists and others who painted here.

Art isn't the only appeal of Monhegan, a favorite of birders for migra ting Merlins, American Kestrels, Peregrine Falcons , and others that touch down here.

Author's tip: To hike the island trails and see some of the artists' favorite viewpoints, get a trail map at Monhegan Associates, near the ferry landing. Wear good boots, as the trails are rough and often run along steep clifftops. Be very careful on the shoreline rocks anywhere along the southern or back side of the island, where rogue waves and a fierce undertow are constant dangers.

The beautifully preserved Victoria Mansion is an extraordinary Italian-style villa built in the mid-19th century.

The architecture and the interior details are exquisite, and it's one of the most lavishly decorated mid-Victorian homes in the country, with painted walls and ceilings and ornately carved woodwork. Most of the furnishings are original, and along with the house itself, they provide a glimpse into how Portland's wealthy lived during the pre-civil war era.

While Maine has many historic homes you can visit, representing all eras and lifestyles from the colonial era forward, Victoria Mansion offers an example of Victorian art and culture that is unparalleled.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Portland, Maine

While you'll find plenty of sand on Maine's beaches, you don't expect to find acres of it inland, surrounded by pine forests. A true desert, with its enormous shifting dunes that cover forests and entire buildings, the Desert of Maine is a geologic anomaly – and a Freeport success story.

When I was growing up and traveling the Maine coast with my parents, I was enthralled by the roadside signs showing camels, palm trees, and Arabian tents. But with the support of the town, this one-time hokey tourist trap is now a natural attraction, well-cared-for by locals Mela and Doug Heestand and highlighting its natural history, science, and local history.

Large signboards with photos of the farm that once stood here explain how old farming practices stripped the topsoil from this sandpit left by glaciers. They explain how, in this active environment, the dunes shift constantly, and you can see the former spring house now being dug out of the dune that swallowed it.

I was surprised to learn that little pine trees growing out of the top of a dune were actually the tops of full-grown pines hidden beneath the sand. It's not all serious science -- you'll want to stop for a photo-op with the colorful camel.

Tip for parents: I enjoy visiting as an adult, but kids are even more excited to explore the Desert of Maine. They can find ancient bones in the Fossil Dig, discover artifacts from early colonial settlers in the Secret Sandbox, and dig in the sand at Gemstone Village where they can keep three polished gems that they find. A Maine-themed playground is filled with clever slides and climbing towers.

Address: 95 Desert Road, Freeport, Maine

Technically part of the city of Portland, Peaks Island seems a different world, separated by a ferry ride. The ride is part of the fun of visiting; the fare is inexpensive, and you get a nice mini-cruise in Portland Harbor, past Fort Gorges and other small islands.

Like many along the Maine coast, Peaks Island played a defensive role during World War II. Battery Steele is the largest of the island's military structures, occupying 14 acres facing the Atlantic. Walking trails connect its three sections (two gun batteries with command and munitions in the middle), and you can walk through the echoing abandoned passages — be sure to bring a powerful flashlight.

My favorite place to sit and contemplate the ocean is at Whaleback Ledge (named for its whale-shaped rocks), but Cairn Beach is a close second. Although not a swimming beach, it's a scenic spot where you won't be able to resist making your own little rock monument.

Several art galleries are worth perusing, as well as the quirky Umbrella Cover Museum , the world's largest (and only) collection of umbrella sheaths. For a full meal, several good options are close to the ferry with views of the water and surrounding islands. Get snacks and lighter fare at Milly's Skillet Food Truck and ice cream at Down Front .

Having a car here is more hindrance than help because there is simply nowhere to park on the island. You can realistically visit most of the island's attractions on foot in a full day. Getting around by bicycle (bring your own on the ferry or rent one at Brad's Island Bike Rentals & Repairs ) is a faster way, but I prefer renting a cart from Peaks Island Golf Carts . To see all the sights without rushing, give yourself at least four hours, although I always end up wishing I had booked the cart for longer.

Author's Tip : If you're renting a cart or bicycle, book well ahead. It's also important to remember that although the ferry runs year-round for residents, most restaurants and shops are closed or reduce their hours between Labor Day and Memorial Day, so an off-season visit might not offer as much to do.

The Bowdoin College Museum of Art , on the college campus in Brunswick, features a permanent collection of more than 20,000 pieces, ranging from ancient Greek ceramics and a 15th-century painting by Florentine artist Fra Angelico to 17th-century New England furniture and mid-century modern furniture by Charles Eames.

Multiple works by Winslow Homer, Rockwell Kent, Gilbert Stuart, John Singleton Copley, and Maurice Prendergast highlight the collections, along with those of Bierstadt, Inness, Eakins, and Corot. Rotating temporary exhibits, gallery talks, tours, and lectures throughout the year make this an active cultural center.

Address: 245 Maine Street, Brunswick, Maine

If you are driving to the northern Maine Coast, you will go through the tidy center of Wiscasset. It is a renowned bottleneck on Route 1, and there's no workaround if you're heading for Boothbay Harbor and coastal points north. But Wiscasset is well worth a stop to explore its historic houses and browse in art galleries and antique shops.

Overlooking the main street, which is Route 1, is the Nickels-Sortwell House , one of the finest Federal homes in New England. It is beautifully restored, its rooms furnished in antiques, art, and period decorative features. The gardens are being restored to their original design and plantings.

Castle Tucker was built nearly a century later, in the late 19th century, as the home of a sea captain. Stroll some of the side streets to find more well-kept historic homes and churches.

The town wharf sits beside the long bridge that crosses the estuary of the Sheepscot River. You can order a full shore dinner or a seafood lunch at Sprague's and enjoy it at one of the picnic tables beside the water.

Bangor is one of Maine's most underrated places to visit, but if you're willing to make the long drive, you will be pleasantly surprised to find that it has very little in common with Stephen King's "Derry." Fans of the King of Horror's books and films should take a tour with SK Tours of Maine , but if getting creeped out isn't your thing, don't worry — there's plenty more to do and see in Bangor.

Bangor's Main Street is a lively area full of energy, lined with shops and a dizzying array of restaurant choices, almost all of them locally owned. You'll find everything from small-batch roasted coffee with fresh baked pastries to traditional German dishes with a local touch. This is also where you'll find the colorful Maine Discovery Museum (formerly the Eastern Maine Children's Museum).

Downtown straddles the Kenduskeag Stream, which looks more like a canal, with more places to visit along Harlow Street. These include the University of Maine's Zillman Art Museum and the beautiful Bangor Public Library, now a great source of pride thanks to the philanthropy of the King family.

The area offers several museums that please kids (and kids-at-heart). My favorite is the Cole Land Transportation Museum , which will scratch the nostalgia itch for adults and entertain kids (under 18 always get in free). You'll find everything from early tricycles to classic cars and vintage freight trucks to train cars that you can explore.

If you're interested in aviation, head to the Maine Air Museum , located next to the airport, and if you didn't see enough fire engines at the Cole Museum, try the Hose 5 Fire Museum .

Bangor and its surroundings have plenty of places to go to enjoy nature, and the Orono Bog Walk is my favorite. This handicap-accessible nature trail is a one-mile boardwalk loop with signage and optional guided naturalist tours. It's adjacent to the Bangor City Forest, which has over nine miles of multi-use trails.

Author's tip: A great spot to enjoy both Maine history and the outdoors is the Maine Forest and Logging Museum at Leonard's Mills, in nearby Bradley. As you walk the grounds of this open-air living history museum, you'll find historic buildings and equipment that show how people lived in rural Maine in the 18 th and 19 th centuries.

The best time to travel to Maine depends on what you want to do while you're here. If you're hoping to ski, head to the mountains during the winter (obviously). Want to hike through Acadia National Park ? Choose spring, summer, or fall. In general, though, the best time to visit Maine is during the summer , especially if you're headed for the coast, planning on spending time at a resort, or simply visiting small towns .

Yes, you'll be faced with hordes of tourists and yes, prices will be higher on everything from souvenirs to lunch to lodging. But with these downsides comes a big payoff: spectacular weather. Highs hover in the comfortable high 70s with lows dipping into the upper 50s. You won't be sweltering during the day or shivering at night, which is perfect.

Plus, this is an ideal time to visit Maine's best beaches , take a sail around Frenchman Bay from Bar Harbor, or enjoy a weekend getaway to Portland.

Another summertime bonus: all restaurants and attractions (many of which tend to close in the off-season) will be open. If you're itching to enjoy a meal in one of the state's best restaurants or stay in one of the top resorts in Maine, book early to ensure your summer visit is a success.

July and August experience the least amount of rain , with only 3.3 to 3.5 inches recorded to fall throughout the month, which is another plus.

A close second to summer is a tie between fall and winter . High season for the inland section of the state, these two seasons are popular for widely different reasons. Fall, which sits comfortably in the high 40s to high 50s, presents artists with a dream palette. Nature's bright red, yellow, and orange hues highlight the beauty of this New England masterpiece. Trees burst into color, captivating visitors and begging cameras to immortalize their beauty.

Winter is cold (sitting in the 30s) and often pummeled by snow. These conditions create a fantastic upside: optimal weather for those who prefer to spend their days on the slopes. Plus, there are plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy in big cities like Portland, so you won't be at a loss for ways to stay warm and entertained.

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Maine is one of the best destinations , no matter the time of year. However, summer in Maine is unlike any other. From spending time at the beautiful beaches to going on hikes in epic parks, the number of fun activities is endless.

Because there are so many great places to visit in the summer in Maine, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed! Don’t worry, though. This post will cover all of the best Maine destinations to visit in the summer and some of the best activities in each place.

Table of Contents

Summer in Maine

Bar Harbor is easily one of the top-visited destinations in Maine , and for good reasons. It’s located right next to Mount Desert Island, the beautiful Frenchmen Bay, and is genuinely a quaint yet breathtaking and scenic location with lots of gorgeous hotels and inns .

Things to Do in Bar Harbor in Summer

Easily, the top thing to do in Bar Harbor is taking a day trip to Acadia National Park, which is later on in this list too. Other great places to visit include Sand Beach, taking a boat tour of Frenchmen Bay, and visiting the Abbe Museum.

You can also head about 20 minutes from Bar Harbor to Trenton, Maine for some great waterpark fun at the Funzone at Wild Acadia Camping Resort. You can purchase a day pass or rent a space at this very cool campground!

If shopping is something you love to do, then you’ll want to visit Freeport for a great summer in Maine. This is one of the most popular destinations for people traveling in New England because of how quaint and fun it is.

Things to Do in Freeport in Summer

It might sound strange, but Freeport is often visited by those who want to visit L.L. Bean. This location, in particular, has a huge Bean boot outside that you can take photos with! Other fun activities in Freeport include walking the trails in Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, exploring the Desert of Maine , and shopping in the downtown area.

Kennebunkport

For a coastal summer in Maine, you’ll want to visit Kennebunkport. The beaches here are absolutely incredible, and there are some great historical and educational attractions throughout this town. It can be an excellent location for all ages! Plus, it was the home of the Bush family, which helped to put this location on the map.

Things to Do in Kennebunkport in Summer

Head to Gooch’s Beach to try out surfing or even take lessons from a local. Colony Beach is a great alternative. Be sure to stop by St. Ann’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church for the incredible architecture and also take in the views from the Goat Island Lighthouse , which is still in use today.

Read More:   The Best Things to Do in Kennebunkport, Maine

Located in southern Maine on the coast, Ogunquit is well-known for its art culture and great beaches. Plus, the restaurants in Ogunquit are incredible. Many people argue whether Ogunquit or Kennebunkport is a better destination, but honestly, it’s an even playing field.

Things to Do in Ogunquit in Summer

The top-rated attraction here is Ogunquit Beach which has breathtaking views and a vast sandy area, so even at the height of the peak season, you can still find a place to relax alone. Walk along the Marginal Way for some of the best ocean views, and stop by the Ogunquit Museum of American Art to support the local art culture.

Augusta is the capital of the state, making it an excellent destination for summer in Maine. Despite being the capital, it only has a population of about 18,000 people, so it has the feeling of a small city or a large town.

Things to Do in Augusta in Summer

If you’re visiting Augusta, you can’t miss out on Old Fort Western , a historic outpost from colonial times that served the British. It’s located right along the Kennebec River. Other attractions include the Maine State Museum (under major renovations as of this writing), the Maine State House, and the Vaughan Woods Trailhead.

Home to beautiful Popham Beach State Park, Phippsburg is an excellent Maine summer trip destination. In fact, it’s the busiest beach state park in Maine!

Things to Do in Phippsburg in Summer

Enjoy fresh caught seafood at Spinney’s Oceanfront Restaurant , explore Fort Popham State Historic Site , and have a beach day at Popham Beach. There are charcoal grills, restrooms, rinse off showers and lifeguards in the summer months.

Acadia National Park

As the biggest national park in Maine, Acadia National Park is the perfect place to visit during summer in Maine. It covers more than 45,000 acres and is known for its remarkable wildlife, hikes, beaches, and more. Most people plan on spending at least a few days in the park to see as much as possible.

Things to Do in Acadia National Park in Summer

For great hiking, hike up Cadillac Mountain, which offers 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Drive part of Park Loop Road to explore the coastal regions of the park, and relax at Jordan Pond.

Read More:   The Top Things to Do in Acadia National Park, Maine

Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach is not just a beach; it’s actually a town! Like many other great Maine summer destinations, Old Orchard Beach is located right on the coast. Many of the fun activities here are outdoors, so this is an excellent location for those who want to get outside in the summer.

Things to Do in Old Orchard Bea c h in Summer

Are you traveling with kids? Stop by Palace Playland . There are fun rides and places to eat here, and it’s located right by the beach. For great restaurants, head to Old Orchard Beach Pier. You definitely won’t want to miss out on Old Orchard Beach (which is a beach) to relax and catch some rays.

Another top shopping destination in Maine is Kittery! In fact, if you’re a budget shopper, you’re going to love Kittery. People from all over New England travel here because of the abundance of outlet shops.

Things to Do in Kittery in Summer

In addition to shopping at the Kittery Outlets , there are many other fun activities. The Strawbery Banke Museum just up the road is a fun living history museum that will take you back in time.

Are you a huge foodie? Add Camden to your summer in Maine travel list. In addition to being home to lots of historical attractions, the food in Camden just can’t be beat compared to other places on this list. Plus, it’s consistently ranked as one of the most beautiful locations in Maine.

Things to Do in Camden in Summer

The most popular place to eat in Camden is The Waterfront Restaurant , which serves up the best seafood at a mid-range price. Other great restaurants include Peter Ott’s on the Water and Fresh and Co. Fun outdoor attractions in Camden include Camden Hills State Park, Camden Harbor, and hiking Mount Megunticook.

Portland is one of Maine’s biggest cities, so it differs in size compared to other destinations on this list. It’s located right on the water and is known for its Victorian homes, exciting history, and outdoor attractions.

Things to Do in Portland in Summer

If you love the outdoors, you’ll want to stop by Fort Williams Park . This is one of the most photographed areas of the state and is often seen on postcards because it’s home to the Portland Head Light. The Portland Museum of Art is a great place to learn more about local artistry, and you’ll, of course, want to shop downtown and visit Casco Bay.

Read More:   How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in Portland Maine

Bangor, Maine, has a long history with shipbuilding and dates back to the nineteenth century. While it’s not located on the coast, it still has tons of great attractions, including museums and outdoor hiking trails. Bangor was also the home of Stephen King !

Things to Do in Bangor in Summer

The Stephen King House is a fun place to visit in Bangor. Other significant areas include the Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway , Maine Discovery Museum , and the huge Paul Bunyan Statue, which is a nod to the town’s history. Visit Bangor City Forest for some great trails.

Read more:  Things to Do in Bangor Maine: A Bangor City Guide

York is located right next to Ogunquit, so you can easily visit both of these coastal destinations on the same trip during summer in Maine. It’s popular among visitors who want to stay at resorts, and the golfing here is also incredible.

Things to Do in York in Summer

To get your summer relaxation in, make sure to stop by Long Sands Beach. It can get busy quickly, so try to go in the morning. A great hike can be done at Mount Agamenticus, which offers impeccable views of the surrounding area. If you’re a history fan, be sure to add Old York Gaol to your itinerary.

Rockland is located on Maine’s coast and is near Rockport. It’s easily a popular destination among tourists because of its incredible beauty, museums, and unique attractions. It can be a great destination if you’re traveling with a family.

Things to Do in Rockland in Summer

Fans of art and museums should definitely visit the Center for Maine Contemporary Art and the Farnsworth Art Museum . For epic coastal views, check out the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse and Rockland Harbor. The downtown area of Rockland is also great and is rather historical, especially on Main Street.

Peaks Island

Peaks Island is just a quick ferry ride away from Portland, and is one of the top Maine islands to visit in the summer. It’s a popular summer tourist destination that somehow still feels like a bit of a secret!

Things to Do on Peaks Island in Summer

Peaks Island is home to some of the best coastal trails and swimming holes in Maine! Many people bring their bikes with them on the ferry to explore the island by bike, but it’s also easily walkable. Peaks Island is a fantastic summer vacation spot for those looking for a way to explore one of the most popular islands in Maine!

Now you know all of the best places to visit during summer in Maine! Truthfully, you can’t go wrong with any of these locations, as there is so much to do in each one. Many of them are also located pretty close to one another, so you can easily visit multiple top-rated destinations within the same trip to this epic state.

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10 best places to visit in Maine

Apr 27, 2023 • 6 min read

Maine's slogan is “the way life should be,” and these are the best places in the state to visit to experience just that © Thomas H. Mitchell / Getty Images

Come for the lobster and lighthouses, stay for the granite peaks and tranquil woodlands. With the slogan, “the way life should be,” Maine is a place that will capture your heart. 

From its northern waterways and mountain peaks to its southern sandy beaches and lobster rolls, Maine should be on everyone’s travel list. Here’s our guide to the 10 best places to visit in the Pine Tree State.

1. Baxter State Park

Best place for mountain hiking.

A highlight of Maine’s central highlands, Baxter State Park comprises 210,000 acres of wilderness. Most people visit the park to hike Mt Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.

A strenuous and day-long hike up the 5267ft granite peak yields incredible views of Maine’s vast wilderness and bragging rights. Baxter State Park is also home to miles of easier hiking trails, ponds perfect for canoeing and moose spotting, and several campgrounds with cabins, lean-tos and tent spots.

2. Acadia National Park

Best place for wild swimming.

The first national park east of the Mississippi River, Acadia National Park is one of the most popular national parks in New England thanks to its soaring granite peaks, dramatic rocky coastline and inner woodlands. Located on Mount Desert Island along Maine’s rocky coastline, Acadia National Park features 26 mountain peaks, including Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the North Atlantic seaboard. Drive or hike Cadillac Mountain to watch the epic sunrise as it wakes the country up. 

Visit Sand Beach or Echo Lake for swimming and choose from an abundance of hiking trails of various difficulties. Zip along the historic carriage trails by foot, bicycle or horseback. 

Planning tip: Once you’re done working up a sweat, enjoy delicious world-famous popovers at the Jordan Pond House . Of course, you’ll find lobster on every menu through the charming town of Bar Harbor and across the island.

3. Portland

Best place for city lovers.

Portland , Maine’s largest city, is home to award-winning restaurants and breweries and is known for its lobster and seafood. For a unique twist on lobster, stop by Highroller Lobster Co. and try their Lobster Cheese Crisp Taco or Lobby Pop. 

Start your morning with a coffee and donuts from Hifi Donuts before walking and shopping your way through the historic cobblestone streets of the Old Port. Get active by hopping on one of Summer Feet Cycling’s bike tours out to the scenic Portland Head Light. Portland has more breweries per capita than any other city in the US. Enjoy a pint with the locals at Bissell Brothers , Allagash Brewing Company  and  Rising Tide Brewing Company . 

4. Camden and Rockland

Best for quintessential seaside towns.

The small coastal towns of Camden and Rockland in midcoast Maine are quintessential seaside towns where the lobster is freshly caught that day, the old homes once belonged to old sea captains and everyone knows everyone’s name. 

For the picture-perfect view of Camden Harbor, hike to the top of 780ft Mt Battie in Camden Hills State Park .

In Rockland, visit the Farnsworth Art Museum to discover the beautiful paintings of the American painter Andrew Wyeth. Grab your morning coffee and enjoy the ocean air while you walk the nearly 1-mile stone breakwater to the historic Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse that welcomes ships into Rockland Harbor.

5. Carrabassett Valley

Best for outdoor sports.

Maine’s northwestern mountains are a ski bum’s paradise. Sugarloaf Mountain is one of the largest ski areas east of the Rocky Mountains, offering 2820 ft of vertical drop and more than 1240 skiable acres. It's the East Coast winter playground of champions, including Olympic gold medalist snowboarder Seth Wescott. During the warmer months, you’ll see tons of mountain bikes zipping around the miles of downhill and cross-country trails throughout the region.

Planning tip: If you prefer a slightly slower pace, the 80-mile network of trails with Maine Huts and Trails is a great way to experience the natural beauty of Maine’s woodlands with some of the comforts of home.

6. Kennebunkport

Best place for beaches.

The picturesque town of Kennebunkport, in southern Maine, is nestled along the banks of the Kennebunk River and the rocky cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It offers a plethora of water-based activities, from whale-watching to kayaking to lobster tours.

To catch a glimpse of yesteryear, visit the family-friendly Seashore Trolley Museum . Nearby Kennebunk and Ogunquit (named by the Abenaki and meaning “the beautiful place by the sea”) are home to miles of sandy beaches perfect for a hot summer day.

7. Freeport

Best place for shopping.

No visit to Maine is complete without a selfie with the famous LL Bean Boot in Freeport. A 20-minute drive north of Portland, Freeport is home to some of Maine’s best outlet shopping and is the headquarters of LL Bean . 

Once you’ve purchased your duck boots and flannel, it’s time to visit Freeport’s surrounding state parks. Spot nesting ospreys, smell the salty marsh and walk through the woodlands in the many different ecosystems in Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park . 

Planning tip: Freeport is also home to one of Maine’s most surprising attractions,  the Desert of Maine . Because of poor agricultural practices, a hidden glacial desert was exposed in the 1800s.

8. Quoddy Head State Park

Best place for whale watching .

The United States’s easternmost lighthouse is one of Maine’s most iconic. Built in 1808, the red-and-white, candy-striped West Quoddy Head Lighthouse overlooks the rocky coastline in Lubec.  Quoddy Head State Park encompasses 532 acres on the easternmost point of land in the US and is popular with Mainers for its incredible oceanside hiking and whale watching. 

Planning tip: Bring your passport and hop over to Campobello Island, a short drive over the border in Canada, to learn more about Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt and their historic summer home.

9. Moosehead Lake

Best place for rustic relaxation.

While Maine’s coastline might be its main attraction, its highlands and wilderness really steal the show. Moosehead Lake is Maine’s largest lake, and it offers activities as well as rustic relaxation. Rent a cabin or pitch a tent and enjoy a quiet time by the water exploring the miles of hiking trails, streams for fly fishing and lots of watersports. 

Planning tip: Stop in Greenville to pick up ingredients for s'mores because you’ll want to build a campfire and stargaze in the dark sky. If you’re lucky, you may even spot the Milky Way. 

10. Allagash Wilderness Waterway

Best place to escape on an epic canoeing trip.

For a true off-the-grid wilderness experience, set off in a canoe on the 92-mile Allagash Wilderness Waterway in northern Maine. In the heart of Aroostook County, or as native Mainers call it, “The County,” the Allagash Wilderness Waterway starts in Telos and ends in the tiny town of Allagash. Unplug from your phone and society and take in the incredible beauty of northern Maine while you’re on one of the country’s premier canoe trips.

Planning tip: The canoe trip takes a week to 10 days (depending on the season) and is best for experienced paddlers. 

This article was first published August 2021 and updated April 2023

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12 of the Best Things to Do in Maine in Summer

If you’re wondering when to visit Maine, July and August are some of our favorite months. There are so many great things to do in Maine in July and August! And, no matter what your summer vacation itinerary entails this year, you’ll find that coastal Maine is the perfect place to enjoy some time away. Here are a dozen great things to do in Maine in July and August!

Whether you want to take it easy or pack in tons of activities while you’re in York, we have come up with some of the best things to do in Maine in July and August to help you start planning your ultimate summer getaway.

Best Things to Do in July

1. Lounge on the Beach

Nothing says summer getaway quite like taking it easy with your toes in the sand and the roaring surf before you. York’s beaches are perfect for lounging, taking walks, sunbathing, playing games and playing in the surf. Whether you go to York Beach, Long Sands Beach or Short Sands Beach, you’ll have some fun in the sun.

2. Go Whale Watching

Another of our favorite things to do in the summer is whale watching in Maine. July is one of the prime whale watching months, so you have a good chance of spotting a Humpback Whale, Minke Whale, or even a rare Blue Whale. Other marine life you may encounter includes dolphins and harbor seals. Head to Granite State Whale Watch or Nick’s Chance Whale Watch Tour to set sail.

3. Enjoy Fresh Maine Seafood

When you’re looking for places to visit in Maine in the summer, be sure to take advantage of all the fresh seafood that comes off the boats. The best place to get a taste of this bounty is at a top-quality York establishment like the Dockside Restaurant . From a Classic Lobster Roll for lunch to New England Seafood Chowder followed by a one and half pound Maine Lobster for dinner, you can get your fill of fresh Maine seafood at Dockside.

4. Stay at Dockside Guest Quarters

We might be biased, but out of all the best summer vacation spots in Maine, the best has to be staying at Dockside Guest Quarters. Not only are our accommodations stylish and comfortable, but our property is a wonderful place to relax and get away from it all. With the lawn overlooking the harbor, it’s easy to find a place to watch the activity on the water or settle in with a book. All of our guests are welcome to play badminton, shuffleboard, and croquet on the property. Bicycles are also available for guests to borrow to take a beach cruise. Staying at Dockside Guest Quarters will make your time in Maine this summer memorable. We’ll see you soon!

5. July 4th Fireworks

It’s time to visit Maine in July! Most towns host a waterfront fireworks show on July 4th! Make sure to check with the various cities to see where you can ooh and aah at a beautifully lit sky.

6. Moxie Festival

The Moxie Festival has been held in Lisbon, ME, since 1982. This festival celebrates Moxie Maine’s original soda pop with included tastings, inspired recipes, collector’s items, and more!

7. Tallships Parade in Portland Harbor

Head to Portland Harbor to watch a fleet of historic ships in a parade. During the parade, the ships are open for tours for two days until they end their voyage at the Tallships America Challenge.

8. Yarmouth Clam Festival

This mid-July festival is one of the most popular in the state! Find your way to Yarmouth, ME, to enjoy this annual three-day event filled with everything clams. The festival includes the Friday night parade, Saturday night fireworks, clam shucking contests, clam cook-offs, clam cooking demos, and more!

9. Annual Boothbay Harbor Antique Show

Finish July at the Boothbay Harbor Antique Show! Whether you’re looking for your next statement piece or just something to spruce up your home decor, you will find a plethora of antiques, collectibles, and treasures from a number of different sellers.

Best Things to Do in August

10. Paddle Battle at Nonantum Resort

Check out this annual race of canoes, paddleboards, and kayaks on the Kennebunk River! Whether you’re stopping by to watch the race, or participating, you’re sure to have a good time.

11. Great Falls Baloon Festival

As one of the largest hot air balloon festivals in northern New England, the Great Falls Balloon Festival holds over 100,000 people. Watch as 30-40 balloons launch from the banks of the Androscoggin River. This festival also features food, crafts, a children’s area, and music!

12. Wells Annual Chilifest

Toward the end of August enjoy a chili cook-off from some of the best chefs in the area. Chefs from all over Wells leave their stations to cook their best chili. Enjoy the food, music and various crafts during the last weekend of August.

Plan Your Summer Vacation to York

Are you ready for a summer vacation to York? Our waterfront Maine bed and breakfast , Dockside Guest Quarters is ready for you!   Browse our beautiful rooms and see for yourself how great a summer vacation to York can be!

• Area Activities
• Attractions
• Fun Things to Do in Portland
• Kittery Maine
• Portland ME
• Portsmouth NH
• Restaurants in Ogunquit
• Things to Do in Maine
• Things to Do in Maine in the Fall
• Things to Do in Southern Maine
• Weekend Getaways
• York Harbor

2024 Season Starts Friday, May 3rd

Dockside Guest Quarters & Restaurant is officially opening for the 2024 season on Friday, May 3rd. We can’t wait to welcome everyone back this year!

Best Time to Visit Maine [MONTH-BY-MONTH GUIDE]

Naomi Liz grew up in Maine and has explored many corners of the state–from its iconic places to lesser-known gems. With her breadth of experience and a deep understanding of Maine culture and places, Naomi is a trusted source for insider Maine travel advice . She offers firsthand insights from a lifetime of loving and exploring Maine to help you plan memorable adventures in the Pine Tree State.

Note: Some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive a commission at no additional cost to you. More details are  here .

When you’re planning a trip to Vacationland –dreaming of overflowing lobster rolls, lighthouses dotting a rocky coastline, countryside covered bridges, and going moose spotting in the woods– you want to be sure you’re picking the best time of year to visit . I grew up with Maine as my backyard, and I can tell you that your visions of how spectacular it can be are entirely accurate.

Now that I no longer live in Maine, I have limited time that I get to spend there each year. So like you, I try to plan my trips around the absolute best time to visit Maine. Each season has its merits, of course, but there are some months that are typically not very pleasant and others that can usually be counted on.

In this post, I’m going to share highlights of each of the four seasons in Maine, downsides of visiting during that season, as well as additional details for each month. It’s important to note that Maine is a big state with varied elevation, so temperatures and weather can be quite different throughout the state. That’s why I’ve included average temperatures and snowfall* for each month for six locations around the state (head to the bottom of the post to see these towns on a map).

Got a trip to Maine on your bucket list?  Pin this post to your travel board  on Pinterest to keep it bookmarked!

What is the best time of year to visit maine, visiting maine in the winter.

With a strong possibility of snow during a third of the year, Mainers know how to have fun in the winter. (Or…they at least know how to survive it without going crazy. The viral Facebook post from the Bangor Police Department even shows that they can laugh about it, although maybe they’re laughing because winter has finally pushed them over the edge.)

BEST FOR:   Winter can be a great time to visit for travelers who love cold weather sports or those who want to skip the summer crowds. There are two large ski resorts in western Maine, plus plenty of opportunities for snowmobiling (with 14,000 miles of groomed snowmobile trails), snowshoeing, ice fishing, cross-country skiing, and even dog sledding.

Head west and north for winter sports, stay in Portland for a little city life, or go to Acadia National Park or elsewhere on the coast for a serene winter getaway (read below for a note of caution).

>> Check out Maine Huts & Trails for sustainable, off-the-grid huts that you can snowshoe or ski to in western Maine. <<

WATCH OUT FOR:   One thing to keep in mind when visiting Maine in the winter is that many small businesses in touristy areas (like Acadia National Park and the southern beaches) are seasonal , so you won’t find as many dining or lodging options between November and May. I recommend a little extra research and checking directly with businesses you’d like to visit.

What about driving in the snow? Unless you’re driving  during a snowstorm, you don’t have much to worry about with road conditions, though a vehicle with snow tires and AWD or 4WD is useful. The roads are kept well-plowed, and they do so quickly during and after a storm. If you’re concerned, you can find out about current road conditions here . It’s always a good idea to have plenty of gas, blankets, flashlights, and other emergency supplies in case you break down. I also recommend keeping your windshield washer fluid full because the roads are treated with sand, not just salt, and your windshield will get dirty  fast . Also, watch out for orange flags or signs on the sides of back roads that indicate frost heaves–you might otherwise be taken by surprise at what seems like a randomly placed speed bump!

December can be hit or miss with snow, so a white Christmas isn’t a guarantee. However, skiing opens at Sugarloaf and Sunday River in November, so you should be able to catch some snow on the mountain if you’re planning a ski vacation.

December Events in Maine

• Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport
• Gardens Aglow light show at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Average Temperature High / Low

• Bangor, Maine:  34 / 15° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 37 / 21° F
• Jackman, Maine: 27 / 10° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 29 / 11° F
• Portland, Maine: 37 / 20° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 28 / 9° F

Average Snowfall (Inches)

• Bangor, Maine: 14″
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 15″
• Jackman, Maine: 25″
• Portland, Maine: 13″
• Rangeley, Maine: 30″

January and February are the “dead of winter” months that bring a lot of snow and, often, bitter cold. Winter festivals abound, and there are a lot of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the winter stillness. Come prepared for cold (or plan to stop at L.L. Bean), and you should have a great time.

January Events in Maine

• Tri-State Reciprocal Snowmobile Weekend is a weekend in January that allows snowmobilers to cross borders between Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont to explore the trails across those New England states.
• Snodeo in Rangeley
• Bangor, Maine:  27 / 7° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 31 / 14° F
• Jackman, Maine: 22 / 0° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 23 / 2° F
• Portland, Maine: 31 / 13° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 22 / -1° F
• Bangor, Maine: 19″
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 17″
• Jackman, Maine: 23″
• Portland, Maine: 19″
• Rangeley, Maine: 25″

>> Related: 101 Unforgettable Things to Do in Maine  <<

February is “snow month” in Maine, but like January, it can still bring bitter cold. One thing to note is that school vacations fall during mid-February, so you may see more locals out and about depending on what you’re doing.

February Events in Maine

• Great Maine Outdoor Weekend hosts outdoor activities across the state twice per year (and they’ve recently extended it to be longer than a weekend!)
• Moosehead Lake Snofest
• U.S. National Toboggan Championships in Camden
• Longfellow Days in Brunswick
• Bangor, Maine:  31 / 10° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 35 / 17° F
• Jackman, Maine: 26 / 2° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 27 / 4° F
• Portland, Maine: 35 /16° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 27 / 0° F
• Bangor, Maine: 15″
• Jackman, Maine: 22″
• Portland, Maine: 12″
• Rangeley, Maine: 23″

Oy, March in Maine can be a bear. I remember loathing March when I was a teenager, and I’ve confirmed with friends who still live in Maine that my memories of it being awful are accurate. Descriptions used by some of my friends for this awkward in-between month: blah, cold, wet, dead, icky, windy, and lasts forever. March and November are consistently voted as the worst months in Maine by Mainers.

Part of my disdain for March probably had to do with  living in Maine and the fact that I had been shivering for 4+ months by the time it rolled around and I JUST WANTED TO SEE SOMETHING GREEN ALREADY .

Visiting Maine in March may not be so bad, but it largely depends on when in March you go, what part of the state you visit (western and northern Maine are more likely to have snow than the coast), and the particular temperament of that year’s winter. Snow sports lovers enjoy the warmer temps (read: less extreme cold) combined with a decent chance of still having snow on the ground. It’s a lot more enjoyable to spend the day snowboarding if it’s not -20° F.

The end of March starts to get into mud season (read on in April for more). It’s also usually the month for maple tree tapping, although this can start as early as February and spill over into April.

So, in a nutshell: March in Maine is complicated and highly unpredictable.

March Events in Maine

• Maine Restaurant Week is a great time to explore the culinary scene in Portland and southern Maine.
• Maine Maple Sunday takes place on the fourth Sunday of March every year, and sugarhouses all over the state open their doors to offer samples, tours, demonstrations, and other activities to the public.
• Bangor, Maine:  40 / 20° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 42 / 25° F
• Jackman, Maine: 35 / 11° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 37 / 16° F
• Portland, Maine: 42 / 25° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 36 / 9° F
• Bangor, Maine: 12″
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 16″
• Jackman, Maine: 19″

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Visiting maine in the spring.

There’s nothing like the feeling of starting to see green emerge after a long winter. And watching the mercury rise above the  50° Fahrenheit  mark is cause for breaking out the T-shirts from winter storage and driving around town with the windows rolled down.

That’s how Mainers feel about the spring months…but what about visiting Maine in the springtime?

BEST FOR:   While it’s not what I would consider the best time to go to Maine, the spring off-season brings the benefit of less crowds, bearable (albeit still cool) temperatures, and not as many bugs. It’s also a nice time to start seeing wildlife, such as whales, puffins, bald eagles, and moose, as well as the start of the fishing season.

WATCH OUT FOR:   Many small businesses in touristy areas (like Acadia National Park and the southern beaches) will still be closed in early spring, though they start to open up throughout April and May. By Memorial Day, things should be up and running for the summer season.

Spring and early summer is also known by locals as “construction season,” so be aware that this may make some travel more challenging or detract from your enjoyment.

Also, excessive amounts of mud.

Affectionately dubbed  “mud season” due to the ground (finally!) thawing and the snow melting, April in Maine is a slog to get through. River banks overflow and everything is brown (including the still-melting, 20-foot snow banks in grocery store parking lots).

Personally, I wouldn’t recommend visiting in April. However, one notable event that draws outdoor adventure lovers from all over the country to inland Maine is the Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race. It’s the largest paddling event in New England and has been running for more than 50 years.

Coastal Maine will still be chilly but may be nicer than inland Maine at this time of year, especially late April, thanks to the tempering effect of the ocean. Some locals love late April through mid-May in Acadia National Park because spring is in the air, and there aren’t many visitors on the island yet.

April Events in Maine

• Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race (Bangor area)
• Bangor, Maine:  53 / 32° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 53 / 35° F
• Jackman, Maine: 48 / 26° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 49 / 30° F
• Portland, Maine: 53 / 35° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 49 / 25° F
• Bangor, Maine: 4″
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 5″
• Jackman, Maine: 8″
• Portland, Maine: 3″
• Rangeley, Maine: 9″

May in Maine is the month that feels decidedly “spring” to me. Maybe it’s because I loved having flowering trees  twice  each year during college–starting in April in Pennsylvania, and then again in mid-May when I went home for the summer.

If you enjoy spring weather and want to beat the summer crowds, May can be a nice time to go to Maine. Keep in mind that black flies–which are like little gnats that bite–start to emerge during May.

May is also fiddlehead season! Fiddleheads are the still-rolled-up fronds of a baby fern that are harvested and cooked as a vegetable dish. They grow everywhere in the spring, and it’s a very  Maine   thing to pull over to the side of the road to pick some when you spot a good patch. Whether you go foraging for them yourself , or try a local chef’s take on this rustic delicacy, fiddleheads are a must for your spring trip to Maine!

May Events in Maine

• Fiddlehead Foodie Fest (Portland area)
• Bangor, Maine:  65 / 42° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 65 / 44° F
• Jackman, Maine: 62 / 38° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 64 / 41° F
• Portland, Maine: 64 / 44° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 62 / 37° F

Visiting Maine in the Summer

Ahhh….summer. This is, without a doubt, my favorite time of year in Maine. The months of July and August are particularly wonderful–from strawberry shortcake on July 4th to wild blueberry season to gorgeous camping and hiking weather. Throw in a lobster bake while watching the sunset over a lake, listening to the call of loons floating across the water, and it’s all pretty spectacular.

BEST FOR:   Summers are typically warm and mild, though they do see some humidity as well as random cool spells. This makes a summer vacation in Maine perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, swimming, water skiing, biking, rafting, kayaking, or sailing.

All areas of Maine have pleasant weather in mid- to late summer, so if you don’t want to be holed up in the air conditioning all day, the Pine Tree State is a perfect summer getaway.

WATCH OUT FOR:   Popular coastal areas will inevitably be more crowded during the summer, and this is the time of year that you’ll come the closest to anything resembling a traffic jam in Maine.

Bugs are also a nuisance, but given that Maine doesn’t have terrifying sea or lake creatures, nor any poisonous critters, I don’t mind swatting away some mosquitoes and black flies. They’re less of a problem on the coast than inland, but it’s important to keep your tolerance level in mind.

Booking.com

>> Here are some of my all-time favorite spots in Maine that are perfect for a summer visit! <<

June can be hit-or-miss with temperatures. You may get blessed with summery weather, but it can still be chilly at times and isn’t usually hot. Late June is the start of strawberry season, and there are some amazing growers throughout the state. And mid-June brings lupine season–a gorgeous display of pink and purple wildflowers across the state.

This month also welcomes two of the most loathed bugs: black flies and June bugs. In case you’re not acquainted with a June bug, it’s some kind of clumsy beetle (that’s the scientific classification, anyway). Their clumsiness puts them on par with moths—annoying critters that love to dive bomb you.

This writer puts it best: “Surely the serenity of the first month of summer merits a harbinger of refinement and delicacy. Instead, it is proclaimed by June bugs — boisterous, rowdy blunderers that bang on the screens, thump at the doors, and whirl around porch lights as though intoxicated by the import of their message.” (Vincent G. Dethier from  New England Today Living )

Despite the June bugs and black flies, June can still be a nice time to visit Maine before the heavy vacation season hits in July and August. However, it’s not my top pick weather-wise.

June Events in Maine

• Old Port Festival  kicks off the summer in Portland
• Acadia Birding Festival
• Bangor, Maine:  74 / 52° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 74 / 54° F
• Jackman, Maine: 71 / 49° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 73 / 52° F
• Portland, Maine: 73 / 54° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 71 / 47° F

July is a popular month for travel in Maine, and it’s a great time to head to the beach or do anything outside. It’s usually warm, sometimes hot and humid, and sometimes chilly. Even during the hottest months in Maine, I recommend packing a sweatshirt and being prepared for temperature changes.

Strawberry season usually lasts into the beginning of July, which means delicious, in-season strawberry shortcake on July 4th. (Seriously, try it. You will not regret your decision.) July is also the start of raspberry and blackberry season, both of which you might find growing wild.

July Events in Maine

• Clam Festival in Yarmouth
• Thoreau-Wabanaki Trail Festival in Greenville
• Bangor, Maine:  79 / 58° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 79 / 59° F
• Jackman, Maine: 76 / 53° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 78 / 57° F
• Portland, Maine: 79 / 59° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 76 / 52° F

August brings generally warm weather in Maine, but it tends to not be quite as humid or rainy as July. It’s also the most popular month for tourism on the coast, which means expensive rates and booked out accommodations. This is the conundrum of traveling to Maine in the summer. It’s amazing, and everyone knows it –so it’s crowded.

Early August is wild blueberry season, and please believe me when I tell you that you haven’t had a blueberry until you’ve had a wild blueberry. I recommend eating them with abandon. (Note that some places, for some strange reason, serve high-bush blueberries, so be sure that what you’re getting are  wild Maine blueberries .)

>> Wondering what to pack for Maine in August? Head here for my Maine summer packing guide ! <<

August Events in Maine

• Maine Lobster Festival in Rockland
• Wild Blueberry Festival in Machias
• Bangor, Maine:  78 / 56° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 78 / 59° F
• Jackman, Maine: 75 / 51° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 77 / 55° F
• Portland, Maine: 78 / 58° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 74 / 50° F

Visiting Maine in the Fall

Experiencing a New England fall is a bucket list item for many people–for good reason. Whether taking a leisurely drive along a scenic byway, enjoying sweeping views of Maine’s wilderness from a mountain summit, or leaf peeping from a plane, fall is an amazing time to visit Maine.

BEST FOR:   Of course, leaf peepers love the gorgeous display of colors in late September and October across the state. But fall colors aren’t the only reason to visit Maine in autumn. Even as the air starts to get cooler, it’s still a lovely time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, biking, or whitewater rafting.

Fall is a great time to visit if you enjoy the outdoors. All areas of Maine are lovely at this time of year, but keep in mind that foliage peaks at very different times around the state. This site has some some general guidelines for the best fall colors based on region, as well as a helpful fall foliage map .

WATCH OUT FOR:   Later in the fall season, seasonal businesses in tourist-heavy locations will begin to close for the winter. October and November can bring a bit more rainfall than the summer months as well.

For many locals, the weeks after Labor Day but before fall foliage are prime–kids have gone back to school, the warm weather often lingers, and most of the summer’s humidity has dissipated. Later in the month, the air starts to get crisp and chilly. It also brings apple season, and there’s simply nothing like fresh, cold apple cider on a fall day!

Some Mainers say September is the perfect month to visit Maine. But remember that if you’re looking for fall foliage, you probably won’t catch it just yet unless you head far north.

September Events in Maine

• Seaplane Fly-In on Moosehead Lake
• Acadia Night Sky Festival in Bar Harbor
• Common Ground Country Fair in Unity
• Bangor, Maine:  70 / 48° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 71 / 52° F
• Jackman, Maine: 67 / 43° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 67 / 46° F
• Portland, Maine: 70 / 50° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 67 / 43° F

October is the month for leaf peeping in Maine! Keep in mind that some areas and higher elevations may reach peak color in late September, but many parts of Maine are best in early to mid-October.

October Events in Maine

• Harvest on the Harbor – Maine’s annual food and drink festival in Portland
• Bangor, Maine:  58 / 37° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 59 / 42° F
• Jackman, Maine: 53 / 32° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 54 / 34° F
• Portland, Maine: 59 / 39° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 53 / 32° F
• Jackman, Maine: 2″
• Rangeley, Maine: 2″

November is another oddball month (like April) that’s not  really fall but not quite winter. It’s definitely an awkward in-between month that tends to be brown and dreary because the leaves are generally gone and there isn’t typically snow because the deep winter cold hasn’t set in yet. While it’s not a top pick, you may consider early November in southern or coastal Maine if you’re not coming from far away and just looking for an inexpensive weekend getaway.

• Bangor, Maine:  45 / 29° F
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 48 / 33° F
• Jackman, Maine: 40 / 24° F
• Millinocket, Maine (Baxter State Park): 42 / 26° F
• Portland, Maine: 48 / 31° F
• Rangeley, Maine: 40 / 23° F
• Bangor, Maine: 2″
• Bar Harbor, Maine (Acadia National Park): 3″
• Jackman, Maine: 9″
• Portland, Maine: 2″
• Rangeley, Maine: 10″

So, When Should I Go to Maine For…

As you can see, the best time to visit Maine really  depends on what you want to do and what part of the state you visit. I’m going to sum things up with a few ideas of when (and where) to visit based on activity. 

If you can’t choose between mountains and ocean views, head to Acadia National Park from July through October for great coastal hikes. Prefer a more mountainous landscape? Central and western Maine have you covered: try Mount Katahdin (Maine’s highest peak), the Bigelow Range, or the Moosehead Pinnacle Pursuit. The best hiking weather is from July through October.

Whitewater Rafting

When it comes to rafting in Maine, thrill seekers won’t be disappointed. There are several rivers to choose from: Dead River, Kennebec River, and Penobscot River. They are all dam-controlled, which means you’ll have guaranteed water flow throughout the rafting season. The Kennebec has Class 2-4 rapids and daily releases from May-October. Four of those are high water releases of 8,000 CFS. The Dead River has eight releases each season during May-October and Class 3-5 rapids. The Penobscot also has daily releases from late May-September and Class 3-5 rapids.

For the most exciting rapids, go in May and June to catch the spring runoff. For warmer weather, July and August are usually great (go during the week if you want to miss the party crowd). And for fall foliage and fewer crowds, September and October are ideal.

Leaf Peeping

Maine puts on a pretty spectacular display of color in the fall. So when do the leaves change in Maine? The northern part of the state sees peak fall color in late September and early October. In central and western Maine, leaves are changing during the second and third weeks of October. And on the coast, peak fall color is generally the third week of October.  This site has some some general guidelines for the best fall colors based on region, and you can find a Maine fall foliage map here .

Whale Watching

Admittedly, I have mixed feelings about whale watching in Maine…mostly because my experience as a kid involved an underwhelming amount of marine life and enough motion sickness to warrant my grandfather’s teasing about feeding the fish. (Thankfully, I didn’t get that sick–and it’s probably about time that I give whale watching another chance.)

For many visitors to coastal Maine, whale watching is as much a part of a summer vacation as a fresh lobster roll on the docks. Maine has a lot of coastline and its ocean waters are host to many types of whales–Humpbacks, Finbacks, Minkes, and more. While the whale watching season runs from mid-April/May – October, the best time for whale watching in Maine is during June, July, and August . You might also spot some North Atlantic Puffins in mid-June through August.

>> Want to enjoy the coast without all the crowds? Check out these 12 under-the-radar spots in Acadia and Down East Maine ! <<

Of course, the question on many people’s mind is: What’s the best time to go to Maine for lobster?

First, it’s important to understand the difference between soft shell and hard shell lobster . Hard shell lobster are firm and have lots of meat per lobster. As the weather warms, they shed this shell as they outgrow it, and their new shell is soft and spacious–meaning these soft shell lobsters have less meat per lobster. Soft shell are considered a delicacy and the meat itself is sweeter and more tender than hard shell. As the lobster continues to grow, its shell hardens over time and the molting process continues.

Another difference between soft shell and hard shell lobsters: when cracking open a whole lobster, you’ll  definitely need nutcrackers for hard shell, while soft shell can often be given a little crack and split open with your hands.

So is there a lobster season in Maine?

While lobster can be harvested year round off Maine’s coast , harsh weather and migration farther off shore make the winter months of late December through March difficult–limiting the supply and increasing the price. Late spring is a bit better, with “lobster season” starting to kick off. During May, the demand isn’t very high since summer tourists haven’t arrived, so you’ll find good prices on hard shell lobster.

In the summer, the lobster move closer to shore and begin to shed their shells. This is when most of us (myself included) think of indulging in a perfectly sweet lobster roll or having a lobster bake. Starting in July through early fall, soft shell lobster are plentiful, while hard shell are more expensive.

By late September through late November or early December, the hard shell supply is excellent and there’s less demand from tourists, so prices are still pretty good before winter really sets in.

With all this in mind, the best time to visit Maine for lobster is July – September , as you’ll be able to get plenty of delicate soft shell lobster, and you can still get hard shell if that’s what you prefer.

*Source for average temperature and snowfall: USclimatedata.com

What’s top on your list of things you’d like to see in Maine? When would you most like to visit? Let me know in the comments!

Travel Photographer | FAA Certified Drone Pilot

Naomi is the coffee-loving, crazy-about-Latin-America writer and photographer behind everything here. She's guided by curiosity and a belief that every place has a story to tell–whether it’s through the intricate details of nature, history that has shaped a culture, or the people who call a place home. Learn More

16 BEST Places to Visit This Summer in Maine

Summer in Maine is a magical time. Just ask the 9.1 million people who visited the Pine Tree State in the summer of 2022, which comprised 60% of all visits in 2022. The weather is perfect, and all of the attractions, museums, and businesses are open.

Places like Dock Square in Kennebunkport are packed with people, and the southern Maine beaches are brimming with sun-seekers. More than half of the 4 million people who visited Acadia National Park did so between June and August 2022.

Those are the stats, but let’s look at the facts. There’s so much more to Maine summers than crowded coastlines and long lobster lines. We want you to have all the options that await in the different regions, so let’s explore the best places to visit this summer in Maine that might not be on your radar.

The Bold Coast

If you think you’ve seen the best of the rugged coastline in Cape Elizabeth , you don’t know The Bold Coast in Downeast Maine .

Stretching from Western Head in Cutler to the Canadian border city of Lubec, the Bold Coast National Scenic Byway spans nearly 150 miles of small-town, big-shore territory. It’s also just a two-hour drive from Bangor International Airport.

Old Sow Whirlpool

The Bold Coast is home to the largest whirlpool in the western hemisphere. Its name is Old Sow, and don’t let anyone tell you that you can only see it from the Canadian side. You can see it from Eastport when it’s churning, especially if you can get a boat to Dog Island.

To get the best view, cross your fingers and book a trip with a boating company, like Eastport Windjammers , where you can mix whale-watching with the search for the Old Sow.

NOTE: The name “Old Sow” comes from the pig-like noise it makes when the water funnel is at its fiercest.

West Quoddy Head State Park

This 541-acre state park includes the West Quoddy Head Lighthouse , which is the easternmost of its kind in Maine. A 4-mile coastal trail takes you from rocky ledges to salt marshes to a sandy beach.

Cutler Coast Public Land

Dramatic, if not intimidating, cliffs and cragged shoreline await at this 12,000+ acres of Maine beauty. Whale activity peaks in the summer, and you won’t have to worry about crowds on the beach.

A handful of campsites are what you dream about but rarely get in the more crowded camping areas, like beautiful Sebago Lake.

“Few hikers can tell the tale of Black Point Brook Loop. This isn’t because of the trail’s precipitous cliffs paired with tree-toppling winds… encounters with America’s largest rodent, which wanders in these woods… or visitors taken by the spectacular scenery and wandered into the surrounding wilderness, never to be found. Instead, many hikers are simply unaware of Black Point Brook Loop, making it perhaps Maine’s greatest secret.” Natural Heritage Hikes guide

The Black Point Brooke Loop takes you along nearly 3.5 miles of coastline, with Ocean Outlook as another trail option. Summer also brings the harvest season for Maine’s wild blueberries, which grow in all their splendor here.

Aroostook County

This northern part of the state saw just 6% of all summer Maine visitors in 2022. Even a drive on the Million Dollar View Scenic Byway is worth the trip to The County, as Mainers call it. The region is also referred to as “The Crown of Maine” for the way it sits atop the rest of this glorious Vacationland.

Fort Fairfield

On the border with Canada, just east of Caribou and Presque Isle, the small town of Fort Fairfield hosts one of Maine’s biggest summer events — the Maine Potato Blossom Festival .

While you’re looking for lobster rolls and fried clams, you might not know that potatoes are Maine’s biggest agricultural commodity.

HISTORY LESSON: In 1937, Maine and Idaho had a “Half-Baked Potato War,” in an effort to see which state had the best potatoes.

Presque Isle

The skies of Presque Isle bloom with color for the Crown of Maine Balloon Festival each summer. This pays homage to the 1978 transatlantic crossing of the Double Eagle II that departed from Maine.

Aroostook State Park is on Echo Lake, with hiking trails for all skill levels and paddle rentals available for those who want to get on the water. And while you’re in the area, check out the Maine Solar System , which runs from Presque Isle to Houlton.

Frenchville

You’ll find a bilingual community with small-town charm in Frenchville, and you’ll be able to boat or paddle on the international boundary of the St. John River. Nearby, St. Agatha sits on Long Lake, the deepest of the Fish River Chain of Lakes .

Moosehead Lake

Just three hours from Portland is a place where two of Maine’s staple attractions thrive — moose and dark skies.

Moose reportedly outnumber people here three to one. The majestic animals are actually skilled swimmers and likely to swim faster than you! They can also dive, holding their breath for a minute or more. Don’t believe me? I don’t blame you. Here’s proof:

The dark skies near Moosehead Lake are part of New England’s first International Dark Sky Park. Not even Acadia National Park can offer that.

In between the moose and mystical night sky, you have hiking, fishing, beaches, and boating to explore. Seaplane tours are also available with Jack’s Air Service in Greenville at the south end of the lake.

Machias Maine

The small town of Machias makes a big noise in the summer, not just because of the falls at Bad Little Falls Park .

The Machias Wild Blueberry Festival is a summer tradition, and even if you miss the events, you can still visit one of many farms where you can rake your own wild blueberries. It’s a whole different variety than the larger ones you have at home.

You can still get Maine lobster here, and you could take a short road trip to Machiasport to hear the ringing rocks of Jasper Beach .

Freeport Maine

In addition to all the summer festivities at the L.L. Bean Flagship Campus and Discovery Park , there are also Outdoor Discovery Programs  with activities for all skill levels and time limits available on the shores nearby.

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park is another hidden treasure with dramatic coastlines and woods to explore nearly 250 acres with educational kiosks along the way. The favorite visitors are the Ospreys that nest here before migrating to South America in the fall.

Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach , or OOB, is Maine’s answer to Jersey Shore, with more history than fist bumps. This 7-mile stretch of beach is packed with people on what was once an emergency landing strip for Charles Lindbergh.

The seaside amusement park of Palace Playland and the iconic OOB pier have been staples for summer guests for more than a century.

Islands of Maine

Maine has thousands of islands off its coastline. The most popular is Mount Desert Island — the home of Acadia National Park. But, there are so many other fantastic islands to explore.

Get familiar with the ferry schedule to see how easy it is to get to the most popular islands. The Maine State Ferry Service offers the largest number of trips in the summer to several of the state’s islands.

TIP: The Maine ferries are dog-friendly and some offer car transportation. You can also bring bicycles, supplies, and gear with you.

Frenchboro is a town that is accessible by ferry or private boat. The town actually covers a dozen islands, with Long Island being the largest.

The Frenchboro Preserve is part of the Maine Coast Heritage Trust. It covers the majority of Long Island and offers beaches, rocky shores, and wooded hikes where, even at the height of summer tourist season , you might not pass another person on the trails.

This series of islands spans the length of the coastline from Camden to Belfast and is just 3 miles from the shore. Guests arrive at the town dock with the Grindle Point Light Station greeting them. The Islesboro Islands Trust manages more than 1,000 acres of preserved land here.

Also, Islesboro has several uncrowded beaches tucked away from town, and an easy trail around Turtle Head is comparable to the Great Head Trail at Acadia, yet you’ll likely be the only person there. Plus, Warren Island State Park was specifically designed for boaters and includes 70 acres to explore.

This island is as far away from the mainland as you can get in a populated community. It’s 22 miles from Rockland . Time the trip perfectly to match the limited ferry trips, but the summer offers the most trips.

Matinicus Rock has a famous Puffin colony, and Matinicus Excursions offers boat tours to see the birds and the lighthouse on the rock. You’ll have few resources here but will enjoy wide stretches of sandy beaches lined with pine trees and dramatic rock cliffs.

North Haven

This island community is 12 miles from Rockland and boasts natural landscapes with seclusion from summer crowds. Mullen Head Park is 250 acres with woods, fields, and three beaches.

If you time it right, you can walk from North Haven to Burnt Island . And, golfing is available at North Haven Golf Club , which opened in 1847.

This year-round community is the largest of its kind, leaving plenty of amenities and options to put on your itinerary. It’s almost a “mini-Maine” with beaches, mountains, a lighthouse, lobstermen, and shops to explore. Must-see locations include Tip Toe Mountain Preserve and Brown’s Head Light Station .

NOTE: North Haven and Vinalhaven are known as the Fox Islands.

Swan’s Island

Swan’s Island is a great getaway from Acadia National Park if you want more breathing room. The island is just 6 miles from Bass Harbor.

The Lobster and Marine Museum tells the history of this island, while the Burnt Coat Harbor Light Station is surrounded by miles of hiking trails through rocky terrain leading to several beaches.

TRAVEL TIP: To visit the best beach on the island (and possibly much of Maine), work your way to Fine Sand Beach on the western side of the island.

Summer Shines in Maine

Maine quickly earned a reputation as a four-season state, but summers will always be the apex of adventure. You can’t go wrong with any location in Maine for a summer vacation.

We only encourage you to explore as much as you can, and we’ll be here to help you plan a return trip that is sure to follow.

The VisitMaine.Net team is the small team of authors and editors that research and write our in-depth guides throughout the site and update past articles to make sure they're still super valuable to you. We have one goal: to help you fall more in love with the state of Maine!

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13 of the Most Amazing and Best Places to Visit in Maine

Posted on Published: 10/02/2023

From the rocky coastline to the numerous beautiful lighthouses, Maine has certainly earned its Vacationland nickname. It’s a beautiful state with lots of different places to visit on vacation – including several gorgeous coastal towns.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us. I’ve received complimentary/discounted admission, hotels, and transportation (on the Amtrak Downeaster) to some of these locations (and have paid for others), but all opinions are my own.

I generally recommend visiting Maine in the summer months of July and August for the warmest weather – it’s the best time if you want to experience outdoor activities. We have also enjoyed trips to Kittery, Portland, and Freeport in the winter when they were less crowded. If you do that, however, you won’t be able to do any water activities.

For most places to visit in Maine, you’ll need to drive. There is the Amtrak Downeaster train as well. It travels from Boston, MA’s North Station to the following station stops:

• Brunswick, ME
• Freeport, ME
• Portland, ME
• Old Orchard, ME
• Haverhill, MA

This is a traditional train, not an auto train, so you won’t have access to your vehicle when you are on vacation. Some places in Maine are very walkable, however, so depending on where you go, you may not need it.

These places can also be great road trips from Boston if you are visiting Massachusetts for summer vacation. While we’d recommend staying overnight, you could always visit some of the more southern locations for just a day trip. You could also visit multiple locations on a road trip.

The Best Places to Visit in Maine

Portland, maine.

Portland Maine is one of my favorite road trips from our home in Massachusetts. This waterfront city (the largest city in Maine) is a big foodie destination, with many delicious restaurants , great breweries, and unique cafes. Go hungry, because there are so many things you’ll want to eat.

The city offers several popular districts, including Old Port along Casco Bay. This picturesque area of the city is where you’ll find many restaurants, as well as where you can take a boat tour in season. Looking to try some of that famous Maine lobster? We recommend the Highroller Lobster Co, a fun, casual restaurant in the center of the city where you can get lobster rolls and other lobster dishes.

There are also several wonderful museums in the city, including the Portland Museum of Art, the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine (which recently moved from the Arts District to Thompson’s Point), and the Tate House Museum.

Like shopping? There are many small gift, book, food clothing, and souvenir shops around town. Portland is a great place to shop for gifts. Visiting in the summer? Don’t miss seeing a Portland Sea Dogs game at Hadlock Field.

If you choose a downtown hotel, you can park at your hotel and just leave your car there most of the time. Portland is very walkable and also has an airport and an Amtrak train station if you’d prefer to travel that way. It’s a little less than a 2-hour drive from downtown Boston.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Portland .

Driving to Portland? Don’t miss a stop at the beautiful Portland Head Lighthouse, which is a great photo opportunity. It’s a popular place, and you’ll often see photos of the lighthouse on guidebooks and postcards.

Kittery, Maine

Located right over the New Hampshire border is Kittery Maine, a coastal town that is most known for its great outlet malls. They are spaced out across several different outlet complexes along Route 1. Outlets include New Balance, Lululemon, Crate and Barrel, and Adidas.

In addition to the outlets, there are some fun shops like Yummies (a store filled with all sorts of candy) and the Kittery Trading Post.

Kittery also offers several restaurants, as well as Fort McClary State Park, Take Flight Adventures, Badger’s Island, and the Isles of Shoals.

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Love the beach? Travel to Old Orchard Beach, located on the Maine coastline. It is a traditional beach town, offering activities like mini-golf, paddleboarding, boat tours, and more.

It’s also home to Palace Playland, New England’s only amusement park located on the beachfront. It offers an arcade, kiddie rides, and traditional midway rides and is a popular tourist attraction.

The area features several motels, family hotels, and inns, as well as nearby campgrounds. These are mostly independent motels, rather than chain hotels .

Freeport, Maine

Freeport Maine is most popular as the hotel of L.L.Bean. In addition to the flagship store, there is also the L.L. Bean Outlet, the L.L. Bean Home Store, L.L. Bean Bike, Boat, and Ski Store, and the L.L. Bean Hunting and Fishing Store.

But, there are also lots of other outlets beyond L.L. Bean in Freeport. These include Sperry, Vineyard Vines, and Coach. You’ll also find independent shops and small chains, offering toys, bath and body products, art, and gifts. Don’t miss a stop at Wicked Whoppies, where you can purchase Maine’s signature Whoppie Pies.

Other activities in the area include boat cruises along Casco Bay, as well as Wolfe’s Neck Center. This farm offers animals, workshops, bike and kayak rentals, and much more.

Free parking is available through Freeport. There’s also an Amtrak train station.

Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Boothbay Harbor is a popular summer Maine vacation destination. This small town offers small shops with art, pottery, clothing, and more. There are also waterfront local restaurants where you can get Maine lobster and other seafood.

One of the most popular attractions in Boothbay Harbor is the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. It’s open seasonally, and kids will love seeing the huge troll statues located throughout the gardens.

These five trolls, called the Guardians of the Seeds, are made of recycled materials. They are scattered throughout the gardens, and some require a bit of walking to see. You can use the maps provided by the gardens to find them – they are marked on the map with large footprints.

You may also want to take a boat trip in the area. Cap’N’Fish’s Cruises works with the National Audubon to showcase the Audubon’s Puffin Project. During the cruise, you’ll see wildlife, lighthouses, and more – it’s a great excursion for nature lovers.

The Maine State Aquarium is another popular attraction. It’s run by the state but was closed for renovations this past year.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunk and Kennebunkport Maine have long been popular summer vacation destinations. Here, you can visit beaches and take a boat tour of the area. There’s also Dock Square, offering shops and restaurants, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

If you are visiting without kids, we definitely recommend staying at the White Barn Inn . This beautiful inn is quaint and cozy, but the real draw here is the amazing restaurant.

Ogunquit, Maine

Ogunquit Maine, a trendy and artsy beach town, is one of my favorite places in Maine to visit. I’d recommend visiting in July and August when the weather is perfect for a day at the sandy beach.

Ogunquit is very walkable, with limited parking. So I recommend staying at a hotel/resort in the downtown area so that you can just leave your car and walk. There’s also a trolley that visits the popular attractions during the summer months.

In addition to visiting Ogunquit Beach, you’ll want to walk along Marginal Way to Perkins Cove, a small waterfront area with gift shops, ice cream shops, and restaurants. Don’t forget to stop and view the beautiful scenes as you walk. I really love taking photos as I walk on Marginal Way.

If you enjoy theater, the nonprofit Ogunquit Playhouse offers shows throughout the season. You can see their upcoming schedule on their website .

During our visit to Ogunquit, we enjoyed staying at the Meadowmere Resort . It’s located in a great spot, and you can walk to Ogunquit Beach, Perkins Cove, and Marginal Way.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor Maine on Mount Desert Island is one of the most popular summer vacation destinations in New England, due to its proximity to Acadia National Park (the main attraction in the area). Like other places to visit in Maine, we recommend visiting in the warmer summer months so that you can take advantage of all of the activities.

There are a variety of different ways to explore the area. Oli’s Trolley offers tours of Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park, and downtown Bar Harbor. This guided tour is extremely popular, and we recommend booking your tickets in advance.

There are also Acadian Boat Tours, offering fishing excursions, guided tours, sunset cruises, and more. You can also see nearby lighthouses and puffins, depending on the excursion booked. There are lots of fun things to do near Acadia .

Sebago Lake, Maine

We loved our visit to Migis Lodge located right on Sebago Lake. This family wilderness resort offers traditional lake activities, a kids’ club, delicious food, and beautiful accommodations.

Migis is open in the summer, and it’s very popular. Often guests book for the same week and cabin year after year, so you’ll want to make a reservation as soon as possible if you are interested in attending. It’s an all-inclusive resort (except for alcohol), and once you are there you won’t have to leave.

Other Places to Visit in Maine

In addition to the places we’ve highlighted here, there are other points of interest to visit in Maine. These include:

• Camden Hills State Park (Camden Maine)
• Moosehead Lake and the Kennebec River
• Cape Neddick Lighthouse in York
• Mount Katahdin and Baxter State Park

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21 Best Things To Do In Maine That You Can’t Miss

M aine is full of outdoor adventure ready to be conquered and traveled by you! Discover rocky coastlines, peaceful environments and enjoy endless biking and hiking in this wild state. From picturesque small towns like Bar Harbor and Kennebunkport, to the lively city of Portland — Maine really has it all!

Try delicious lobster, sit on the beaches, or relax by quiet lakes and find the true meaning of being a local Mainer! Whether you choose to visit in the summer, winter, or any month in between, you’ll find a treat ready for a quest.

Here are 21 things to do in Maine that you just can’t miss! 

Explore Acadia National Park

Whether you’re interested in visiting a rocky shoreline, lush forests or granite mountain tops, Acadia National Park offers breathtaking views and stunning scenery in every direction. Explore Mount Desert Island and understand the rugged yet beautiful landscape that makes up Acadia and its lovely community. 

Tie up your hiking boots and discover the most popular hiking trails, such as Beehive Loop, Jordan Pond Full Loop, Cadillac Mountain North, and South Ridge. Leisurely stroll the coastline or take to the hiking paths for an epic adventure that will be remembered for years. 

Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is one of the most popular destinations here.  It is the highest point on the eastern seaboard of the U.S., and offers magnificent views of a glaciated coastal and island landscape. Sunrise is the best (and busiest) time to visit! 

Kayak around the island, bike on paved paths, and finish your day enjoying Jordan Pond House popovers, overlooking Jordan Pond. Explore one of the most beautiful National Parks in the United States and embrace the natural beauty that is Acadia! 

Read More: ACADIA NATIONAL PARK ITINERARY [PLUS WHERE TO STAY]

Greet the Giant Trolls at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Come face to face with giant trolls and tour the impressive oriental gardens at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens . See as recycled wood can be made into immense creatures while you stray into the magical woods in search of the trolls and the garden of seeds. 

Unmask the deeper meaning of the marvelous troll woodworks and see why sustainability is precious. Learn to fall in love with the forests and lose yourself in the great state of Maine. You’ll find plenty to do while wandering through the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. 

Baxter State Park

Stop, stare, and appreciate the largest mountain in Maine, Mount Katahdin, where you’ll be surrounded by dense forest, gorgeous lakes and immerse yourself in true wilderness at Baxter State Park . Keep your eyes peeled for the occasional moose sighting, but please keep your distance. These magnificent animals are absolutely amazing to see in real life! 

With over 220 miles of trails and different hike levels to conquer, it’s important to choose a trail that best suits your capabilities. Katahdin Trail may be one the most popular hikes within Baxter State Park for its wild environment, but the hike is long and fierce with an elevation of 4,000 feet and travel time up to 12 hours. 

If you still want to see the park, there are less strenuous hikes available, and you can always drive and stop off at points throughout your journey. You can also visit the park from the end of the Appalachian Trail! 

Take a Whale Watching Tour

Feel the wind in your hair and smell the salty ocean air when you go whale watching off the coast of Maine. With humpback whales, pilot whales, minke whales and many more glorious creatures, you’ll want to head into Boothbay Harbor or Casco Bay for a once in lifetime experience!

Decipher between the whales, learn about conservation efforts, and watch as whales launch themselves in the air, or feed within their families. With plenty of whale watching tours available I highly recommend Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co.  

The crew are highly knowledgeable throughout the boat tour and elevate your experience onto a whole other level. From seeing an abundance of wildlife and gazing for miles into the clear clean ocean, remember to look back at Maine with pure curiosity.

After, make sure to spend time exploring one of Maine’s best coastal towns — Bar Harbor.

Read More: 16 OUTSTANDING THINGS TO DO IN BAR HARBOR MAINE

Sneak Up On A Moose Via A Canoe Tour

From gently skimming down rivers to experiencing high impact white water rafting, keep a look out for moose from every angle! From taking quick dips to relaxing by the water’s edge let the Moose Safari commence. Get up close to these fantastic animals and learn about their life in Maine.

Northeast Whitewater Tours offers a great package of thrilling water activities to calming tours when catering to all individuals and families. These safe and engaging tours allow you to be at one with nature and understand the importance of conservation and moose protection. 

Go East at Quoddy Head Light

Head over to the Easternmost point of the U.S. and go to Quoddy Head Lighthouse ! This picturesque lighthouse may not be the main attraction in Maine, but you’ll find glorious views and endless colors. 

Come early, set up your camera and watch as nature does its job to provide spectacular scenery with dramatic shorelines and untouched beauty. Walk the historic lighthouse and see why people come from far to visit this impressive area. 

Tip: Get to Quoddy Head light early to be the first person to watch the sunrise in the USA!

Take On Portland

From its hip and vibey breweries, bars, and restaurants, to its impressive arts and cultural scene, Portland is a happening city. With excellent museums like the Portland Museum of Art, discover why locals love this city and tourists keep coming back. 

With beautiful architecture and simply stunning interiors,  Victoria Mansion  is a cultural and historic landmark that must be seen to be believed. During guided tours, you’ll learn about the Morse Libby House and its design from pre-Civil War days in America.

If you didn’t already pack your bean boots, don’t fret, as you can visit the flagship L.L Bean store! Fit in with the local community while touring and wandering through restored redbrick buildings. At the end of a busy day sightseeing the abundance of green spaces, boutique shops and eating yummy foods have a nice cold beer at Allagash brewery.

Read More: 20 OUTSTANDING THINGS TO DO IN PORTLAND MAINE

Photograph Portland Head Light

Watch as your photography skills come to life in the charming town of Cape Elizabeth! With ocean waves crashing against the rocky cliff edges and Portland Head Light sitting in an ideal location, the time is now to put your skills to the test. 

Stroll Fort Williams Park and take in the rugged Casco Bay. With its lush green space and diverse environment, take time to relish in the tremendous views of Maine.

Read more: VISITING MAINE IN WINTER

Ride the Schooner at Maine Maritime Museum

Come aboard the historical Schooner and get to know her amazing history and existence. Originally made in 1906, the Schooner Mary E has had quite a life for a vessel. Today, through the Maine Maritime Museum , you can sail her and experience life away from land. 

Sail past Doubling Point Light, the Kennebec Range Lights, the shipyard where she built and much more on this intimate and enriching cruise.

Stroll Marginal Way in Ogunquit

Roam the 1.25-mile cliff margin between land and sea to soak up the crashing waves, soft sand and divine views. Sit and gaze on one of the many benches and reflect on life be that present, past or future. From the midst of summer to chilled winter brisk, take on the paved path for tranquil peace. 

The walk on Marginal Way is easy for all ages and is a great family activity. You’ll find beach lovers, surfers, and avid walks along your journey off the coast of Maine.

Read More: 11 REALLY AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN OGUNQUIT MAINE

Enjoy Cape Porpoise in Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is described by many as a charismatic beach village with delightful shopping, delicious restaurants, and welcoming locals. However, if you are looking for an even quieter and idyllic town, head 2 miles east to Cape Porpoise . 

With antique shops, secluded beaches, and unusual treats — like lobster ice cream — explore the dramatic, yet peaceful village of Cape Porpoise. I highly recommend renting bikes and touring Kennebunkport and Cape Porpoise for an afternoon of fun in the bike seat.

Seek the Thrills at Old Orchard Beach

Soar the skies and play classic arcade games at New England’s only beachfront amusement park! Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast seeking adrenaline on big rides or looking for gorgeous views atop the Ferris wheel, Palace Playland Amusement Park is made for you.

Cash in those tickets for kiddie rides, family rides or thrill rides, and have a day at the park living life on the edge! Win prizes in the arcade and eat scrumptious treats at Old Orchard Beach. With a sandy beach and active community this resort town is perfect for families, especially with young children! 

Snap a Selfie at Stephen King’s House

Known by many as the “King of Horror”, Stephen King is not only an acclaimed author, but is also a Maine resident! Over the years having your picture taken outside the home has become a popular thing to do. 

With massive bats on the  gates, this big red home stands out among the rest, but is a fitting home for King. Take a quick selfie or drive by and understand the essence of home and who lives inside it.

You’ll find it at 47 W Broadway, Bangor, ME 04401.

Boat to Monhegan Island

Get your sea legs ready and hop on a boat to Monhegan Island ! This striking and rocky little island is 10 miles off the coast of Maine, and offers a quiet look into the lives of its residents and its natural environment. This island is predominantly walked by tourists and offers 360º views of beauty in every direction. 

Meander past lobster traps, stop in gift shops and relax with a drink overlooking the water on the island’s charming village. Known for its creative edge and love for art, people near and far flock to Monhegan for its artistic flare, studios and pop ups. If you’re looking for more adventure, hike one of the island’s paths and climb to the highest ocean cliff in all of Maine. 

Ski or Snowboard at Sugarloaf Mountain

Trade in your sunglasses for ski goggles and get yourself to the top of the ski lift! Mount Sugarloaf is Maine’s second highest peak and offers endless fun for families, skiers and snowboarders alike. With over 160 trails, four terrain parks and fresh snowfall, I highly recommend coming for a weekend getaway to Sugarloaf. 

With fresh powder at your feet and delicious restaurants surrounding you, enjoy a little après ski action after a busy day on the mountain. From the most experienced skiers or snowboarders to beginners, learn the curves of the slopes and get shredding at Sugarloaf.

Take a Class at Farnsworth Art Museum

Celebrate Maine’s values and inspiration into the wonderful and creative role of American art. Featuring world class exhibits and significantly impressive collections, you will gain appreciation for Maine’s artistic voice at the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland. 

With educational programs and classes available throughout the year, come and partake in workshops to broaden your understanding and perspective at Farnworth. Deepen your connection between art, community and America through participation and learning.  

Where to stay: 250 Main Hotel (a review)

Hike to Moxie Falls

Bring out your water shoes and begin your trek to the tallest waterfall in New England. This short but sweet hike takes you through lavish green forests and winds you up to the top of Moxie Falls with a gorgeous lookout point. 

In nice weather, swim in the falls and enjoy the wilderness that surrounds you. This hike is low impact and can be walked by children for an outdoor activity with family. This is also a highly-trafficked route, so plan accordingly to avoid big crowds.

Sail with Maine Windjammer Cruises

Sail off the coast of Maine and enjoy the ease of windjammer living at its finest with Maine Windjammer Cruises . From being up close to wildlife to having memorable meals and dining experiences on handcrafted boats, get ready for a cruise of a lifetime! 

Sail through the islands and cruise in the bay, meandering your way through waterways on this enchanting and active voyage. Learn how to sail, fall in love with the water and take in dazzling scenery throughout your windjamming excursion. So grab yourself a lobster and throw on that sailing hat!

See Puffins at Eastern Egg Rock

Visit the “Sea Parrots” at Eastern Egg Rock and learn interesting facts about their life on this little island. Learn about their eating patterns, nesting tendencies and other fun conservation efforts that contribute to the existence of this puffin colony. 

Look upon the world’s first resorted seabird colony and see how their efforts have helped endangered and threatened birds around the world. These adorable birds will be sure to put a smile on your face! 

Indulge in a Lobster Bake

It would be sin not to partake in a lobster bake while vacationing in Maine. From the rich, decadent flavor of lobster, down to the tasty sides of potato salad, the culture and lifestyle of a lobster bake needs to be experienced and lived. 

Sit outside and enjoy the company of friends and family in this traditional Maine custom. From the warm, buttery lobster to an evening filled with laughter and joy, share stories, and relax with loved ones. 

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park is located in Freeport, ME. You’ll find this awesome state park just 5 minutes from the bustling shopping district in Freeport, making it easy to get away and out into nature.

You’ll find varied ecosystems here, including climax white pine and hemlock forests, a salt marsh estuary, and the rocky shorelines on Casco Bay and the Harraseeket River.

Enjoy hiking trails, picnicking, snowshoeing, and birdwatching here.

What is Maine’s #1 attraction?

The #1 attraction in Maine is Acadia National Park. Located adjacent to the Atlantic Coast on Mount Desert Island, the national park gets thousands of visitors each year. Acadia is full of outdoor recreation and fun.

What is the best month to visit Maine?

The summer months of June, July, and August are the busiest months to visit Maine, but they’re also the best months to visit! If you’re hoping for smaller crowds, consider September or October, when you’ll have less people, but still have somewhat milder temperatures.

Can you see the Northern Lights in Maine?

Yes, you can sometimes see the Northern Lights in Maine. You’ll have the best luck from December to February. One of the best places to see it is at Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO MAINE

• YOUR MAINE VACATION
• EAST COAST VACATIONS: 29+ East Coast Vacations Guaranteed To Make Forever Memories
• MORE MAINE: 15 Amazing Things To Do In Maine
• BAR HARBOR: 16 Outstanding Things To Do In Bar Harbor Maine
• PORTLAND: 20 Outstanding Things To Do In Portland Maine

When and where the solar eclipse will be crossing the U.S.

A total solar eclipse will grace the skies over North America on Monday, one of the most hotly anticipated sky-watching events in recent years.

Weather permitting , millions of people in Mexico, 15 U.S. states and eastern Canada will have the chance to see the moon slip between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light .

The total solar eclipse will be visible along a “path of totality” that measures more than 100 miles wide and extends across the continent. Along that path, the moon will fully obscure the sun, causing afternoon skies to darken for a few minutes.

Follow live updates on the solar eclipse

In all other parts of the continental U.S., a partial solar eclipse will be visible, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun. Exactly how big a bite depends on the location.

The first spot in North America that will experience totality on Monday is on Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PT, according to NASA .

After moving northeast across Mexico, the eclipse’s path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Slivers of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

In Canada, the eclipse will be visible in parts of southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

The timing of the eclipse and the duration of totality varies by location. Most places will experience around 2 minutes of darkness, but the longest periods of totality are typically in the center of the eclipse’s path.

This year, the longest stretch of totality will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds in an area northwest of Torreón, Mexico.

Below is a list of timings for some U.S. cities along the path of totality, according to NASA .

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m. CT.
• Idabel, Oklahoma: Partial eclipse begins at 12:28 p.m. CT and totality at 1:45 p.m. CT.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m. CT.
• Poplar Bluff, Missouri: Partial eclipse begins at 12:39 p.m. CT and totality at 1:56 p.m. CT.
• Paducah, Kentucky: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 2:00 p.m. CT.
• Carbondale, Illinois: Partial eclipse begins at 12:42 p.m. CT and totality at 1:59 p.m. CT.
• Evansville, Indiana: Partial eclipse begins at 12:45 p.m. CT and totality at 2:02 p.m. CT.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Erie, Pennsylvania: Partial eclipse begins at 2:02 p.m. ET and totality at 3:16 p.m. ET.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Burlington, Vermont: Partial eclipse begins at 2:14 p.m. ET and totality at 3:26 p.m. ET.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.
• Caribou, Maine: Partial eclipse begins at 2:22 p.m. ET and totality at 3:32 p.m. ET.

Other resources can also help you figure out when the various phases of the eclipse will be visible where you live, including NationalEclipse.com and TimeandDate.com .

If you plan to watch the celestial event, remember that it’s never safe to look directly at the sun, including through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses. Special eclipse glasses are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent permanent eye damage.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.