Located in the New England region of the United States, Maine is a vacation paradise with natural beauty, rich history and a vibrant culture. It shares a maritime border with Nova Scotia and has a stunning coastline with picturesque lighthouses, rocky shores, dense forests, rivers, wetlands, and abundant wildlife, such as moose, deer and seabirds. Each of Maine's regions offers a distinct experience, whether you're in the mood for a serene seaside retreat, want to explore the art and culture scenes or take part in trekking rugged wildernesses.
Here are seven unforgettable places to visit in Maine, USA.
The most iconic destination of Maine is arguably Acadia National Park. Situated on Mount Desert Island for the most part, the park is known for its breathtaking mountain ranges, granite peaks and vast desert landscapes. Cadillac Mountain is one of the first places in the country where you catch the sunrise, making it a top attraction for visitors. With over 150 miles of hiking trails, the national park offers a vast range of adventures for visitors to embark on.
There are plenty of hikes you can do at Acadia National Park, from easy walks to challenging ones that make you break into a sweat. The Jordan Pond Path is perfect for beginners, while the Precipice Path is reserved for more seasoned hikers.
The Park Loop Road offers panoramic views of the park and cuts across dense woodlands, rocky shores and famous landmarks like Thunder Hole.
June to October is the best time to visit Acadia National Park. The park is most vibrant in the fall when the foliage turns shades of gold and red, though summer is popular for its pleasant weather. The park is open year-round, but some roads and services close during the winter.
Portland is Maine's largest city. Located along the beautiful Casco Bay, it is the birthplace of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, author Stephen King, actor Judd Nelson and five-time Olympic medalist Ian Crocker. The city offers a mix of historic charm and modern vibrancy for visitors to experience. It is also famous for its vast expanses of green space and scenic mountain peaks.
Explore one of the country’s most photographed lighthouses, the Portland Head Light, just a few miles away from the city centre.
The historic waterfront of the Old Port district is full of old-world charm. In particular, the seafood here is sure to please—do try the lobster rolls. Drop in at the Portland Museum of Art which houses renowned artworks by famous American painters, including Winslow Homer and Edward Hopper.
May to October is the best time to visit Portland, Maine. The summer months are perfect for enjoying the city’s waterfront activities and festivals. In the fall, the city is less crowded and the weather is cool, making it a great time to explore.
Situated on the northeastern side of Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park and a destination in itself. The place attracts visitors due to its coastal beauty, adventurous pursuits, soulful beaches and busy waterfront eateries. Take advantage of the whale-watching cruises, lobster boat tours and sea kayaking while you're here.
Take a calming coastal walk on the Shore Path which offers some of the most satisfying views of Frenchman Bay. Tour operators offer daily whale-watching cruises from May through October, providing a chance to see humpback and finback whales. Visitors can also experience Maine’s fishing culture firsthand by boarding a lobster boat.
June to October is the best time to visit Bar Harbor. The place is busiest in the summer when the weather is perfect for experiencing outdoor activities. Fall is also a popular season due to the spectacular foliage.
Camden in Knox County is known as the "jewel of the coast." It is a delightful summer residence and blends mountain scenery with the tranquility of the ocean. The postcard-perfect harbour is filled with sailboats and yachts while its High Street Historic District has 19th-century homes and the Camden Public Library. Visitors can take a Windjammer Cruise or hike to the nearby Camden Hills State Park for spectacular views of the surrounding region.
The Camden Hills State Park has numerous trails for all skill levels, including a hike up to Mount Battie for picturesque views of Penobscot Bay. The Windjammer Cruise takes visitors on board a historic schooner for a sailing trip around the bay. This is one of the best ways to enjoy Maine's rugged coastline. You can also enjoy outdoor concerts and festivals at the Camden Amphitheatre during the summer.
July to August
Kennebunkport is an attractive coastal town known for its stunning beaches, like Sandy Goose Rocks Beach and Arundel Beach, as well as historic homes. This unforgettable place in southern Maine offers a mix of natural beauty and rich historical significance, with its 18th-century mansions and ties to the Bush family—they famously had a summer estate here. Stop by the Seashore Trolley Museum for its huge collection of streetcars.
Shop at Dock Square's boutiques and galleries which are filled with beautiful works of art and unique hand-crafted items. Swim, sunbathe and picnic at Goose Rocks Beach. Drive down Ocean Avenue to view stunning waterfront homes and the Bush family compound.
Late June to mid-September
Boothbay Harbor is a quintessential seaside town in Lincoln County with a bustling port and numerous art galleries. It serves as a starting point for boat tours so consider going on whale-watching expeditions, sailing journeys or lobster fishing tours here. The town is also home to the famous Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Book a boat ride to catch a glimpse of marine life like dolphins and whales. You can also learn about the underwater ecosystem at the small but informative Maine State Aquarium. Visit the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens which opened in 2007. Spread across 250 acres, the gardens feature several themed areas, including a rhododendron zone and a children's garden.
Late June to early September
Mount Katahdin is the highest mountain in Maine at 1,605 metres and the centrepiece of Baxter State Park. This unforgettable park and mountain in Maine attracts experienced hikers and climbers who want to tackle its tough trails. The park also offers ample opportunities for camping, wildlife viewing and fishing.
Hike the Knife Edge Trail, one of the most challenging but rewarding hikes in the area. Stay at the campgrounds for a couple of nights. It provides the ideal base for exploring Baxter State Park's lakes and forests. Keep your eyes peeled for moose, black bears, deer and birds during your time here.
The best time for hikes is generally late June to mid-September when the weather is most stable and the trails are clear. Baxter State Park normally opens for campers on May 15 but conditions on the mountain usually keep the trails up to Katahdin closed for weeks beyond that.