Located on the northeastern coast of the USA, Maine is a stunning state to visit. With its rugged coastlines, bayside towns, and beautiful national parks, there’s a little part of Maine that will appeal to every visitor. Honestly, there are so many great places in the main to visit dotted across the state. You just have to find it!
And this is where the tricky part comes. It can be difficult to narrow down a short list of places in Maine to visit on a trip. Especially, if you want to explore as much as possible with your time in the state.
So, to help you see the most magnificent sights in Maine, I’m sharing some gems that I know you won’t want to miss. That way, you can focus on all the delicious food (trust me, the lobster is great here) and actually visit the state.
Have the most amazing time exploring Maine. It is truly a beautiful state.
1.) Acadia National Park
Located on the Atlantic coast southwest of the city of Bangor, Acadia National Park is one place you don’t want to miss in Maine. You see, it’s one of the best places in the Northeast United States to explore the untouched rugged coastline of the North Atlantic.
In fact, Acadia National Park is a 46,000-acre park with other mountains, cliffs, beaches, lakes, forests, and inlets that make it a perfect place to hike, hike, and explore.
We absolutely loved it Cadillac North Ridge TrailWhere you’ll explore, you guessed it, Cadillac Mountain. Warning: Be sure to pack waterproof shoes with you, as the trails can get wet at certain times of the year. The hike will take you about three hours and cover just over four miles. It’s a great route and perfect if you don’t want anything too intense.
Also, don’t forget about Wild Gardens of Acadia. This is a great place to explore the stunning nature surrounding the Jesup Path and follow the trails. It is beautiful.
Book this Guided tour of Acadia National Parkwhich departs from nearby Bar Harbor to make your journey easier. It will take you to Sieur de Monts Spring, see Jordan Pond, and you’ll even have a lobster roll. It is very good.
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2.) Augusta
About a 70-minute drive from Bangor, Augusta is Maine’s capital and a truly beautiful place to visit for a half-day trip while visiting Maine.
Augusta is one of the best places to visit in Maine if you want to explore more of the state’s cultural history. Once here, you can visit Old Fort Western. It is said to be the oldest wooden fort in New England and dates back to the 1700s. You will be able to explore the historic garrison building and learn a lot about life in New England in the 18th century.
Also, if you like to stroll, go on the Kennebec River Rail Trail. This takes in the Riverwalk along the Kennebec River. Also, on the way, you can stop Otto is on the river For a bite to eat. Their lamb shanks are so good.
Read more: Best places to visit in Northeast USA
3.) Gulf Hagas
Colloquially known as Maine’s own Grand Canyon, Gulf Hagas is a vast canyon-like waterway that’s incredible to visit. It is one of the best places in Maine to visit if you are looking to hike and venture into the heartlands of the state.
For some spectacular views, join the Gulf Hagas Trail, which takes you through the magnificent landscapes of central Maine. Just be aware that, like most of the East Coast, it can get wet, so plan ahead and take layers with you.
Plus, you can easily partake in a trip around Maine’s Gulf Hagas region with its famous lakes. Don’t forget to visit Moosehead Lake, Rum Pond and Upper Wilson Pond.
Just be aware that there is very little in terms of services around this area of Maine, so choices in terms of lodging and restaurants may be limited. For a bite by the lake, stop by Stress free Moose Pub and Cafe. It’s a no-nonsense place in Greenville serving up delicious chili dogs.
Read more: Best places to visit in Massachusetts
4.) Nubble Head Lighthouse
Located on a headland off the coast of York Nubble Head Lighthouse. It’s a gorgeous stop to make, especially for a 30-minute break to stretch your legs before continuing on your Maine road trip. For the best views, head for sunrise (if you’re standing) or sunset, where the orange hues are beautiful.
If you have more time, stay a night in York itself and stroll along Short Sands Beach and explore York’s small historic district. Here, you will get to see the Old Schoolhouse, York Town Hall and stop by Fat Tomato Grill. Their homemade soups and Thanksgiving sandwiches are very good.
Alternatively, go to Sun and Surf Restaurantwhich is on the shore. They serve up some delicious bacon-wrapped scallops.
5.) Portland
Portland, not to be confused with the one in Oregon, is a pretty great city in Maine to visit. It’s the perfect stopping point on a road trip while exploring some of the best places in Maine while driving along the coastal roads. You can easily spend two nights in Portland, and it can serve as a gateway city to stay and explore the wider area.
Once in Portland, be sure to visit the delicious Farmers Market. Serving fresh local food, organic dairy, juicy fruits, meats and sweets. Although it’s small, it’s a great way to get a taste of the local area.
Also, don’t forget to visit Luke’s Lobster at Portland Pier. They serve some of the best lobster in town—all fresh to order. Just be aware that it can get busy on weekends, so plan ahead if you’re short on time.
Oh, and be sure to watch Portland Observatory. It is a historic signal tower—the only one left in the US that is built entirely of wood. It dates back to the 1800s and is an integral part of the city’s long history. They also run guided tours every 30-minutes.
For a short afternoon trip from Portland, take a boat from Portland to Peaks Island. It’s a gorgeous little island for a stroll, and boats cross it at least every hour during the day. Once on Peaks Island, you can run to Battery Steel, walk the coastal path from the Casco Bay ferry stop, and stop by. Cockeyed gull For a bite to eat.
Read more: Best places to visit in Massachusetts
6.) Moosehead Lake
I touched briefly Moosehead Lake Earlier, but it deserves its own mention. It’s one of the best places in Maine to visit if you’re heading further inland from the state.
Now, Moosehead Lake is huge, so don’t expect to cover it all in one trip. Choose specific destinations, such as Mount Kino State Park (if you like hiking) or Lily Bay State Park. Both of these are fantastic. However, as I mentioned earlier, there isn’t much in terms of restaurants around here – so plan ahead.
7.) Quoddy Head State Park
Located right on the international border between Canada and the United States, Quoddy Head State Park is a great place to visit. You see, it’s the easternmost point in the United States and the whole area is spectacular.
If you love hiking, the Coastal Trail is a goal you must hit. However, the interesting feature that comes with this hiking challenge is that you get to enjoy some amazing ocean views. You’ll see the coastline around Quoddy Channel to the cliffs of Great Manan Island in New Brunswick Canada.
Oh, and don’t forget to search West Quoddy Head LighthouseAlso.
Read more: Best places to visit in Massachusetts
8.) Port Clyde
If you’re traveling along the coast in Maine, be sure to stop off Port Clyde Explore further on the St. George Peninsular and Clark Island. It’s only small, but that’s its charm, in my opinion.
Once you’re in the area (and driving around by car), be sure to stop at Marshall Point and visit Marshall Point Lighthouse And the museum is steeped in history from the 1800s. But, there is Drift Inn Beach Which is great for a ramble.
Oh, and if you’re heading further north into the peninsula, be sure to grab lunch McLoons Lobster Shack. Their lobster stew and steamed Maine lobster are very good.
9.) Cape Elizabeth and Portland Light
Just outside the city of Portland Portland Head LightOne of the most famous lighthouses on the east coast. It dates back to the 1700s and has been warning ships approaching land for centuries since then.
It’s an absolute gem to visit and absolutely beautiful to visit at sunrise (if you’re up early).
Also, you can easily include nearby visits (by car). Kettle Cove and Crescent Beach in Cape Elizabeth. Kettle Cove and Crescent Beach are adjacent to each other and great for a stroll on a warm day.
Read more: Best places to visit in Massachusetts
10.) Rockport
Just north of Manchester-by-the-Sea and nearby Salem, which is across the border in Massachusetts, Rockport is one of the best places to visit in Maine when exploring the coast here (and around Gloucester).
Once here, you have to go up Roy Moore Lobster Company which has been serving lobster here for over 100 years. They serve the freshest Maine lobster in the region. It’s a pretty unspoilt place and the lobster is always incredible and absolutely fresh.
Oh, and be sure to check out Motif #1. It is a replica of a log cabin that once stood here in the 1800s. It is very beautiful.
11.) Allagash Wilderness Waterway
The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is a great place to visit in Maine when you’re exploring the northern parts of the state. You see, it’s close to the Canadian border and so easy to include in your trip if you’re heading further north.
Now, the Algash Wilderness waterway is very remote and in terms of facilities, it is lacking. So, if that sounds like a bore to you, maybe give Algash Wilderness Waterway a miss.
If it doesn’t, great! Be sure to go kayaking (with a proper guide) or take in the views on the Allagash Mountain Trail. It is such an untouched and totally unexplored area.
Read more: Best places to visit in Massachusetts
12.) Baxter State Park
In the heart of Maine, Baxter State Park Well worth a visit as the trails take you up the coast and into Canada. You see, it’s about halfway to Maine and a perfect stopping point for a few day trips as you explore more of the state.
Once here, be sure to see Mount Katahdin. Honestly, it’s hard to miss—especially since it’s Maine’s tallest peak. Katahdin rises from Baxter State Park.
Once here, there are heaps of hikes to choose from. You can find more information on the Halon Taylor Trail, which is accessible during the summer months here. Although this is only for the most skilled hikers – this hike can be extreme, and is not for anyone not looking for a serious challenge and serious elevation gain.
Read more: Best places to visit in Massachusetts
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