Maine is classic New England: rocky coastlines, lighthouses, lobster shacks, and some of the best outdoor scenery in the Northeast. Whether you’re planning a coastal road trip, a hiking weekend, or a family summer vacation, these top 10 attractions should be on your Maine itinerary.
1. Acadia National Park (Mount Desert Island & Bar Harbor)
Why go: Dramatic granite peaks, carriage roads, coastal cliffs, and sunrise views from Cadillac Mountain make Acadia Maine’s crown jewel. The park offers hiking, biking on John D. Rockefeller’s carriage roads, tidepools, and scenic drives. Cadillac Mountain is famous as one of the first places in the U.S. to see sunrise (seasonally). National Park Service
Tips: Arrive early for Cadillac Mountain at sunrise, consider the Park Loop Road for a quick scenic tour, and reserve summer parking or use free shuttles where available.
2. Portland Head Light (Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth)
Why go: One of the most photographed lighthouses in America, Portland Head Light sits in Fort Williams Park with cliffs, picnic spots, and easy walking paths. It’s perfect for photography, history, and a relaxed coastal stroll. portlandheadlight.com
Tips: Combine a lighthouse visit with a trip into Portland’s Old Port for seafood, breweries, and boutique shopping.
3. Bar Harbor (Gateway to Acadia)
Why go: Bar Harbor is the most popular town serving Acadia visitors—quaint shops, seafood restaurants, whale-watching and boat tours, and a lively waterfront. It’s an ideal base for exploring the park’s east side. www.visitbarharbor.com
Tips: Book lodging early for summer; try a lobster roll and an ocean cruise to see islands and marine life.
4. Baxter State Park & Mount Katahdin
Why go: For serious hikers and backcountry lovers, Baxter State Park is home to Mount Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. The park preserves true wilderness — rugged trails, remote ponds, and wildlife. Baxter State Park
Tips: Reservations or permits may be required for peak-season access and certain trailheads; pack for changing mountain weather.
5. Old Orchard Beach
Why go: A classic summer destination with a wide sandy beach, a historic pier packed with arcades and restaurants, and family-friendly amusements. Old Orchard Beach mixes nostalgic boardwalk fun with modern beachfront amenities. Visit Maine
Tips: Great for families and budget travelers; weekend nights bring live music and fireworks in high season.
6. Kennebunkport & Southern Coast
Why go: Chic coastal village vibe—beautiful beaches, galleries, boat tours, and the famous Bush family summer compound nearby. Kennebunkport blends historic New England charm with boutique shopping and seafood dining.
Tips: Drive the scenic coastal route (Route 9/Route 35), book a harbor cruise, and time your visit for summer festivals or the holiday “Christmas Prelude.”
7. Camden & Camden Hills State Park
Why go: Camden is known for its postcard-perfect harbor and sailboats. Hike Mt. Battie in Camden Hills State Park for panoramic views of Penobscot Bay and nearby islands—on clear days you can see as far as Acadia’s peaks. Visit Maine
Tips: Camden’s harbor restaurants are ideal for sunset dinners; the Mt. Battie loop is short and rewarding for families.
8. Boothbay Harbor & Midcoast Cruises
Why go: Boothbay Harbor offers scenic boat tours, botanical gardens, galleries, and an authentic working harbor. It’s a great base for day cruises to see lighthouses, puffins (seasonal), and rugged islands. boothbayharbor.com
Tips: Try a lobster boat tour or a wildlife cruise; book in advance during summer weekends.
9. Rockland & the Farnsworth Art Museum
Why go: Rockland is an arts and cultural hub on the midcoast with the renowned Farnsworth Art Museum (collection focused on Maine artists), a lively waterfront, and the Maine Lobster Festival (annual). Rockland also serves as a ferry port to the Cranberry Isles and Isle au Haut.
Tips: Time your visit with local gallery walks or check the Farnsworth schedule for exhibitions of Winslow Homer and other Maine artists.
10. Ogunquit & Perkins Cove
Why go: Ogunquit blends dramatic coastline with charming coastal village life. The Marginal Way cliff-side path offers easy, scenic walking between town and Perkins Cove, which is full of shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants. Ogunquit is an accessible, elegant beach town ideal for couples and families.
Tips: Walk the Marginal Way at sunrise or sunset for the best light and smaller crowds; combine with nearby Wells Beach.
Practical Travel Tips
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall (May–October) for weather and activities; fall foliage (September–October) is spectacular, especially inland and in Acadia.
Getting around: A car is the most flexible way to explore coastal Maine and inland parks. Ferries connect islands from Rockland and Bar Harbor. Portland has an airport and Amtrak service nearby.
Where to stay: For Acadia: Bar Harbor, Mount Desert Island lodging, or campgrounds. For southern coast: Portland, Kennebunkport, or Ogunquit. For midcoast: Camden, Rockland, or Boothbay Harbor.
Quick Itineraries (2 options)
Short coastal weekend: Portland → Portland Head Light → Kennebunkport → Ogunquit (2–3 days).
Nature-focused week: Acadia National Park (3 days) → Bar Harbor → Camden → Baxter State Park (2 days).
Final tips
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Book summer lodging and ferry trips early.
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Respect local rules in protected areas like Baxter State Park and Acadia (leave no trace).
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Try local seafood—Maine lobster and clam chowder are a must.
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