20 Things To Do Only In Maine
Maine Summer Vacations from ME Living Magazine
Maine, known as “Vacationland,” offers a wealth of unique experiences that cater to both upscale travelers and families. From its picturesque lighthouses to charming coastal towns, Maine provides a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural enrichment.
Here are 20 + things you can only do in Maine to make your summer vacation unforgettable. To feature your Maine business, contact us.
Maine Summer Vacations
1. Visit the historic Ogunquit Playhouse
The Ogunquit Playhouse is a summer theater gem with a history dating back to 1933. Known for its Broadway-caliber productions, the playhouse offers a range of performances from classic musicals to contemporary plays. Upscale travelers will appreciate the quality of the productions, while families can enjoy a delightful evening of entertainment. Stay locally at the Beachmere Inn and enjoy ocean views and first-class accommodations.
2. Take a Maine Lighthouse Tour
Maine’s rugged coastline is dotted with historic lighthouses. A must-see is the Nubble Lighthouse in York, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. Other notable lighthouses include Portland Head Light and Pemaquid Point Light. Many tours are available that provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of these iconic structures.
3. Golf at the Bethel Inn Resort
For golf enthusiasts, the Bethel Inn Resort in scenic Bethel offers a challenging and scenic 18-hole course. Nestled in the mountains, this Maine golf course provides breathtaking views and a serene golfing experience. After a round of golf, visitors can enjoy the resort’s upscale amenities, including a spa and fine dining. Yes, this Maine resort is also pet-friendly!
4. Visit Georgetown & Boothbay Harbor
Georgetown and Boothbay Harbor are quintessential New England coastal towns. Stroll through its charming streets, visit local boutiques, and dine at waterfront restaurants. Families can enjoy boat tours that explore the harbor’s marine life, including seals and puffins. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is a popular Maine Attraction, featuring beautiful landscapes and children’s activities.
5. Yoga Retreat at Sewall House Inn
For a rejuvenating experience, the Sewall House Inn in Island Falls offers yoga retreats in a historic setting. Founded in 1845, the inn provides a tranquil environment for practicing yoga, meditation, and wellness. Guests can enjoy personalized yoga sessions, nature hikes, and healthy meals, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking relaxation and renewal.
6. Enjoy Woodfired Pizza at When Pigs Fly
When Pigs Fly in Kittery is renowned for its delicious woodfired pizzas. Using high-quality ingredients and a traditional woodfired oven, the pizzeria offers a variety of creative and mouth-watering options. It’s a perfect spot for a casual lunch or dinner with family or friends.
7. Savor Fresh Maine Lobster
No trip to Maine is complete without indulging in fresh lobster. Warren’s Lobster House in Kittery, Ogunquit Beach Lobster House, Jonathon’s Restaurant in Ogunquit, and the famous Maine Diner on US Route One are some top spots to savor this Maine delicacy. Each offers a unique dining experience and delectable local seafood.
8. Walk the Marginal Way
The Marginal Way is a scenic coastal walk in Ogunquit that stretches for about a mile and a half. The paved path offers stunning ocean views, benches for relaxing, and access to small beaches and rocky coves. It’s an ideal activity for families and those looking to enjoy Maine’s natural beauty.
9. Whale Watching in Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park and a prime location for whale watching. Several tour operators offer boat trips where you can spot humpback whales, finbacks, and minke whales. These excursions often include knowledgeable guides who provide interesting facts about the marine life and local ecology.
10. Visit Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is a natural treasure with diverse landscapes, from rugged coastlines to dense forests. Visitors can hike Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast, drive the scenic Park Loop Road, or explore the picturesque Jordan Pond. The park offers activities for all ages, making it a fantastic family destination.
11. Explore the Portland Museum of Art
The Portland Museum of Art is a cultural highlight in Maine’s largest city. It features an extensive collection of American, European, and contemporary art. The museum is located in the historic Old Port district, where visitors can also enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring the waterfront.
12. Tour the Maine Maritime Museum
Located in Bath, the Maine Maritime Museum offers a fascinating look into the state’s maritime history. Exhibits include historic ships, boat-building demonstrations, and artifacts from Maine’s seafaring past. Families will enjoy the interactive displays and the opportunity to learn about the state’s rich nautical heritage.
13. Take a Moose Safari in Greenville
For a unique wildlife experience, take a moose safari in Greenville. Guided tours provide the chance to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat. The best time for sightings is early morning or late afternoon. This adventure offers a memorable and educational experience for all ages.
14. Visit the Farnsworth Art Museum
The Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland showcases American art, with a special focus on Maine artists. The museum’s collection includes works by the Wyeth family, as well as contemporary pieces. Art lovers will appreciate the museum’s diverse exhibits and its beautiful setting in the heart of Rockland.
15. Stay at an amazing Maine Bed and Breakfast Inn
Maine is home to many historic bed and breakfasts that offer charming accommodations and personalized service. Staying at places like The Moorings B&B in Georgetown, The Beachmere Inn, The Bethel Inn, the Hartstone Inn in Camden or the Captain Lord Mansion in Kennebunkport all provide a unique and intimate experience. These Maine inns often feature beautifully restored buildings and gourmet breakfasts.
The Mooring Bed and Breakfast, 132 Seguinland Road, Georgetown ME 04548 | 207-371-2790 or 866-828-7343
Five unique rooms, all with private baths, great ocean views & beautiful gardens. A roomy casual porch catches the warm summer breezes. The Mooring has beautifully landscaped grounds with a Pergola directly on the ocean edge to host a wedding. Enjoy the large groomed lawn to have your tented reception, family reunions, or afternnon stroll. Discover a beautiful, quiet spot on the ocean.
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Sewall House Yoga Retreat, 1027 Crystal Road (PO Box 254), Island Falls, Maine 04747 | 1-646-316-5151
The Sewall House Inn & Yoga Retreat remains in the family and to this day continues the hospitality begun by Levi Sewall (who settled Island Falls and is William's father). Donna Davidge, the fifth generation in the house, runs the lovely historic inn as a yoga retreat, splitting her time between Island Falls, Maine and New York City. Ranked Top Ten by Conde Naste Traveller and USA Today.
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Beachmere Inn, 62 Beachmere Place, Ogunquit, ME 03907 | 207-646-2021
Ocean front accommodations in the heart of Ogunquit on the Marginal Way with breathtaking ocean views. Luxury suites and unique rooms, fireplaces, kitchenettes, private balconies or patios. Enjoy an on-site spa, exercise room and hot tub. Reception rooms for weddings, meetings and events. Beachmere Inn is a leader in guest services, event coordination and hospitality. A stunning location perfect for weddings, elopements, vow renewals, rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and even bachelor - bachelorette weekend getaways. Open year round. Walk to everything in town or enjoy drinks from our ocean view Blue Bistro.
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The Colony Hotel, 140 Ocean Avenue, Kennebunkport, ME 04046
The Colony Hotel is a recognizable landmark from land and sea overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Kennebunk River and our private beach. The 1914 resort is a picturesque getaway with guestrooms in five buildings each with its own distinctive style and ocean, river, or garden view. The Colony Hotel is ranked as one of the best coastal eco-resorts and is pet friendly.
The Colony Hotel Rates & Specials - Kennebunkport, ME
17. Kayak in Casco Bay
Casco Bay, with its numerous islands and calm waters, is perfect for kayaking. Rent a kayak in Portland or take a guided tour to explore the bay’s scenic beauty. Paddlers can visit secluded beaches, observe marine wildlife, and enjoy the tranquility of the water.
18. Discover the Old Port in Portland
Portland’s Old Port district is a vibrant area known for its cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants. The district is also home to numerous breweries, making it a great spot for beer enthusiasts to sample local craft brews.
19. Take a Puffin Cruise
Maine’s coastal waters are home to the charming Atlantic puffin. Puffin cruises, particularly from locations like Boothbay Harbor and Bar Harbor, provide the opportunity to see these colorful birds up close. The cruises are informative and fun, offering insights into the puffins’ habits and habitat.
20. Relax on Maine’s Beautiful Beaches
Maine boasts some of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in New England. Ogunquit Beach, with its wide sandy shores and gentle waves, is perfect for families. Popham Beach State Park and Reid State Park offer more secluded options for those seeking a quieter beach experience. Enjoying a day at the beach is a quintessential Maine summer activity. Some of our favorite Maine Beaches include Short Sands Beach, Old Orchard Beach.
20. Take a Maine Lighthouse Tour
Maine’s rugged coastline is dotted with historic lighthouses. A must-see is the Nubble Lighthouse in York, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the country. Other notable lighthouses include Portland Head Light and Pemaquid Point Light. Many tours are available that provide fascinating insights into the history and significance of these iconic structures.
Maine offers a diverse array of activities that cater to both upscale travelers and families. From exploring historic lighthouses and indulging in fresh seafood to enjoying outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful state. For more information about visiting Maine and planning your perfect summer vacation, bookmark MELiving, a local Maine ezine and travel guide.
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Jonathan's OGT, 92 Bourne Lane, Ogunquit, Maine 03907 | 207-646-4777
Serving upscale New England cuisine, Jonathan's Ogunquit, caters to those diners looking for fresh seafood, classic European dishes, grilled steaks and more. Diners prefer Jonathan's for a romantic date night, to celebrate a special birthday or enjoy an evening of farm to table gastronomy before a show. Jonathan's offers dining, events, and concerts. Featuring local food products wherever possible and focuses on serving fresh, New England products. Jonathan's slogan has always been to #eatwell.
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Maine Diner, 2265 Post Road (US Route 1),Wells, ME 04090 | 207-646-4441
World Famous Food Like Grandma Used To Make. Featured on "The Today Show", Phantom Gourmet, Guy Fieri's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" and others. Maine blueberry pancakes, pies, lunch and dinner specials and more. Try Maine Diner's famous Lobster Pie, Seafood Chowder, Codfish Cakes. Breakfast anytime. Remember the Maine Gift Shoppe, Maine Products. Eat-In or Take-Out. View menus online.
Maine Diner - Wells, Maine
The Blue Bistro at Beachmere Inn, 62 Beachmere Place, Ogunquit, ME 03907 | 207-646-2021
Blue Bistro offers a relaxed setting for Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner. Enjoy an ocean view with your fresh Maine Lobster Benedict in the morning. After a day at the beach, join us for a delicious Filet Mignon dinner. Please telephone for the latest information about our daily specials from our in house chefs. We're an easy walk from Downtown Ogunquit and welcome advance reservations to enjoy our delectable offerings and beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Blue Bistro is among the Top-Rated Restaurants in Ogunquit.
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When Pigs Fly Pizzeria, 460 U.S. Route 1
Kittery, Maine 03904 | Restaurant: 207-438-7036 Bread Store: 207-439-3114
Enjoy our large selection of wood-fired pizzas, appetizer plates, craft beers and draft wines. The pizzas are Neapolitan style, handcrafted from all natural ingredients. Our wood-fired ovens give the crust a chewy, smoky flavor. All ingredients are the freshest including mozzarella, which is made fresh daily. This location is also home to the When Pigs Fly Company Store, which offers all of the classic and artisan breads, and other products available from When Pigs Fly.
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Roberto's, 200 Shore Road, Ogunquit, Maine 03907 | 207-646-8130
Roberto's is committed to making every dish memorable and that feeds not only the body, but feeds the spirit as well. Delicious hardy portions that are truly crave worthy. An extensive menu of all your favorite Italian dishes cooked authentically to give you that real taste of Italy.
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Fisherman's Catch Restaurant, 134 Harbor Road, Wells, ME 04090 | 207.646.8780
Fisherman's Catch Restaurant has been serving fresh Maine seafood, off the beaten path, for more than 35 years. We truly appreciate the locals making our little rustic spot in Wells Harbor their destination. Off the Beaten Path, Keeping It Rustic Since 1982. Lunch and Dinner - May to Mid October. Dine Out, Dine In. A Maine Summertime Classic.
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Loco Coco's Tacos, 36 Walker Street, Kittery, ME 03904 | 207-438-9322
Creative, unique, and freshly made Mexican food housed in a restored building, a relaxed dining experience that offers something different to patrons and ensures you enjoy a memorable food experience every time. Mexican, Southwestern Cuisine, Special Diets, Vegetarian, Vegan / Gluten free options. Lunch, Dinner, Dine-In or Take-out, Catering.
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Lord's Clam Box Restaurant, 1465 Main Street So., Sanford, ME 04073 | 207-324-4700
Serving Only the Finest Seafood Since 1969. Famous Chowders and Legendary Seafood, Fried Clams, Fried Haddock, Maine Steamers, Shrimp, Imported Pasta, One Quarter Pound Hamburgers, Assorted homemade desserts and pastries. Sensational side dishes and appetizers. Eat in or Take Out.
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Ogunquit Beach Lobster House, 1111 Beach Street, Ogunquit, ME 03907 | 1-207-360-2286
Enjoy a Maine lobster meal you will will want again and again, with succulent lobster you can taste, not buried in overwhelming seasonings or paired with inappropriate accompaniments. We make it to your taste, even if only seasoned with our healthy Maine salt air! Dine-In, or Take-Out. Seasonally Open 7 days a week from Noon - 8:00pm
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The Bethel Inn Resort & Suites, On The Common, 21 Broad Street, Bethel, ME 04217 | 207-824-2175
Embrace the scenic beauty of Maine's White Mountains at Bethel Inn & Resort. A 1919 year-round family resort with fully updated traditional guest accommodations complemented with fully equipped townhomes and 200 acres of resort amenities. Breakfast is served daily in the Main Dining Room. Craft brews and handcrafted cocktails and more in the comfortable Millbrook Tavern & Grille. Award-winning 18-hole championship golf course, health club with an outdoor heated pool, fitness center, and saunas. Miles of biking trails right here at the resort.
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Sewall House Yoga Retreat, 1027 Crystal Road (PO Box 254), Island Falls, Maine 04747 | 1-646-316-5151
The Sewall House Yoga Retreat remains in the family and to this day continues the hospitality begun by Levi Sewall (who settled Island Falls and is William's father). Donna Davidge, the fifth generation in the house, runs the lovely old place as a yoga retreat, splitting her time between Island Falls, Maine and New York City.
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The Colony Hotel, 140 Ocean Avenue, Kennebunkport, ME 04046 | 207-967-3331
The Colony Hotel is a recognizable landmark from land and sea overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Kennebunk River and our private beach. The 1914 resort is a picturesque getaway with guestrooms in five buildings each with its own distinctive style and ocean, river, or garden view. The Colony Hotel is ranked as one of the best coastal eco-resorts and is pet friendly.
Visit The Colony Hotel - Kennebunkport, ME
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