Maine Attractions

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park, located on Mount Desert Island, is one of the most visited national parks in the United States. The park encompasses over 47,000 acres of stunning landscapes, including granite peaks, lush forests, and pristine lakes.

Key Attractions

• Cadillac Mountain: The highest point on the East Coast, offering breathtaking sunrise views.
• Jordan Pond: Known for its clear waters and the famous Jordan Pond House, where you can enjoy tea and popovers.
• Sand Beach: A beautiful sandy beach located between granite mountains and the Atlantic Ocean.
• Thunder Hole: A natural rock inlet where waves crash with a thunderous sound.

Activities

• Hiking: Over 120 miles of hiking trails, including the Precipice Trail and the Ocean Path.
• Biking: The 45 miles of carriage roads are perfect for cycling.
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for moose, black bears, and various bird species.

The Marginal Way, Ogunquit

The Marginal Way is a picturesque coastal walk in Ogunquit that stretches for about a mile and a quarter. This scenic path offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline.

Key Features

• Benches and Lookout Points: Numerous benches along the path allow visitors to rest and enjoy the views.
• Access to Beaches: The path provides access to several small, rocky beaches.
• Lush Gardens: Beautifully maintained gardens enhance the scenic walk.

Activities

• Walking and Jogging: The paved path is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a brisk jog.
• Photography: The stunning ocean views make it a popular spot for photographers.
• Relaxation: Simply sit on one of the benches and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Portland Head Light

Located in Cape Elizabeth, the Portland Head Light is one of the most iconic lighthouses in Maine. Built in 1791, it stands as a historic landmark and a symbol of Maine’s maritime heritage.

Key Features

• Historic Lighthouse: The oldest lighthouse in Maine, offering panoramic views of the rocky coastline.
• Fort Williams Park: Surrounding the lighthouse, this park provides walking trails, picnic areas, and historic ruins.
• Museum: The former keeper’s house has been converted into a museum showcasing maritime artifacts.

Activities

• Touring the Lighthouse: Learn about the history and significance of the lighthouse.
• Exploring Fort Williams Park: Enjoy a picnic, explore the trails, and visit the Children’s Garden.
• Photography: Capture stunning photos of the lighthouse and the rugged coast.

Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach is a classic New England beach destination, known for its long sandy beach, amusement park, and lively boardwalk. Explore Maine beaches.

Key Features

• The Beach: Seven miles of sandy shoreline perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach sports.
• Palace Playland: A beachfront amusement park with rides, games, and an arcade.
• The Pier: Extending over the ocean, the pier features restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.

Activities

• Swimming and Sunbathing: Enjoy the warm waters and sandy shores.
• Amusement Rides: Have fun on the Ferris wheel, roller coasters, and other attractions at Palace Playland.
• Dining and Shopping: Explore the variety of eateries and shops along the pier and boardwalk.

Baxter State Park

Baxter State Park, located in north-central Maine, is a vast wilderness area encompassing over 200,000 acres. It is home to Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine.

Key Features

• Mount Katahdin: The northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail and a popular hiking destination.
• Waterfalls and Lakes: Numerous waterfalls, ponds, and lakes, including the picturesque Kidney Pond.
• Wildlife: The park is home to moose, black bears, and a variety of bird species.

Activities

• Hiking: Challenging trails such as the Knife Edge and easier hikes like Sandy Stream Pond.
• Camping: Numerous campgrounds and lean-tos for overnight stays.
• Fishing and Boating: Enjoy fishing and boating in the park’s many lakes and streams.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming coastal town known for its historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and maritime heritage.

Key Features

• Dock Square: The heart of Kennebunkport, filled with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
• Goose Rocks Beach: A pristine, sandy beach ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
• Seashore Trolley Museum: The world’s oldest and largest museum of mass transit vehicles.

Activities

• Shopping and Dining: Explore the unique boutiques and enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants.
• Beach Activities: Relax on Goose Rocks Beach or Colony Beach.
• Historic Tours: Take a guided tour of the town’s historic homes and landmarks.

Camden Hills State Park

Camden Hills State Park, located near the town of Camden, offers stunning views of Penobscot Bay and the surrounding mountains.

Key Features

• Mount Battie: A popular hike with panoramic views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay.
• Megunticook Lake: A beautiful lake within the park, perfect for swimming and boating.
• Picnic Areas: Numerous picnic spots with scenic views.

Activities

• Hiking: Trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs.
• Camping: Campsites are available for those wishing to stay overnight.
• Boating and Fishing: Enjoy the calm waters of Megunticook Lake.

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, located in Bristol, is one of Maine’s most photographed lighthouses. It sits atop dramatic, rocky cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Key Features

• Historic Lighthouse: Built in 1827, it offers stunning views and a museum showcasing local maritime history.
• Rocky Shoreline: The rugged rocks are perfect for exploring and tide-pooling.
• Art Gallery: The Fishermen’s Museum in the lighthouse keeper’s house includes an art gallery featuring local artists.

Activities

• Touring the Lighthouse: Climb to the top for breathtaking views of the coast.
• Exploring the Rocks: Wander along the rocky shoreline and discover tidal pools.
• Visiting the Museum: Learn about the lighthouse’s history and local maritime heritage.

Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor is a vibrant town on Mount Desert Island, serving as a gateway to Acadia National Park. It is known for its scenic beauty, charming downtown, and access to outdoor activities.

Key Features

• Downtown Bar Harbor: Filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries.
• Shore Path: A scenic walk along the coastline, offering views of Frenchman Bay.
• Bar Island: Accessible at low tide, allowing visitors to walk across the sandbar.

Activities

• Whale Watching: Take a boat tour to see whales, seals, and other marine life.
• Dining and Shopping: Enjoy fresh seafood and explore local boutiques.
• Kayaking and Canoeing: Explore the coastline and nearby islands by water.

Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake, the largest lake in Maine, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. It is located in the north-central part of the state and offers a wide range of recreational activities.

Key Features

• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by mountains and forests, the lake is known for its stunning vistas.
• Moose Watching: The area is famous for its large moose population.
• Water Activities: Boating, fishing, and swimming are popular activities on the lake.

Activities

• Boating and Fishing: Rent a boat or go on a guided fishing tour.
• Hiking and Camping: Numerous trails and campgrounds around the lake.
• Wildlife Viewing: Take a guided tour to spot moose and other wildlife.

The Portland Museum of Art

The Portland Museum of Art, located in downtown Portland, is the largest and oldest public art institution in Maine. It features an extensive collection of American, European, and contemporary art.

Key Features

• Diverse Collection: Includes works by Winslow Homer, Edward Hopper, and Claude Monet.
• Historic Building: The museum is housed in a historic building designed by architect John Calvin Stevens.
• Special Exhibitions: Regularly hosts special exhibitions and events.

Activities

• Art Viewing: Explore the museum’s permanent collection and rotating exhibits.
• Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and family programs.
• Museum Shop: Browse art-related books, prints, and gifts.

Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is a picturesque coastal town known for its boating activities, charming downtown, and beautiful gardens.

Key Features

• Downtown Boothbay Harbor: Filled with shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants.
• Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens: One of the largest botanical gardens in New England, featuring stunning displays of plants and flowers.
• Boating and Sailing: A popular destination for sailing, kayaking, and boat tours.

Activities

• Whale Watching and Boat Tours: Explore the harbor and nearby islands by boat.
• Visiting the Botanical Gardens: Stroll through themed gardens and natural landscapes.
• Shopping and Dining: Enjoy fresh seafood and explore unique local shops.

The Farnsworth Art Museum

The Farnsworth Art Museum, located in Rockland, is dedicated to American art, with a particular focus on artists from Maine.

Key Features

• Extensive Collection: Includes works by Andrew Wyeth, N.C. Wyeth, and James Wyeth.
• Historic Buildings: The museum complex includes several historic buildings and galleries.
• Wyeth Center: A dedicated space showcasing works by the Wyeth family.

Activities

• Art Exhibitions: Explore the museum’s permanent collection and special exhibitions.
• Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and family activities.
• Historic House Tours: Visit the Olson House, made famous by Andrew Wyeth’s paintings.

The Ogunquit Museum of American Art

The Ogunquit Museum of American Art is a small but renowned museum showcasing American art in a stunning coastal setting.

Key Features

• Diverse Collection: Features works by American artists from the 19th century to the present.
• Sculpture Gardens: Beautiful gardens with sculptures and views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Changing Exhibitions: Regularly hosts new exhibitions and special events.

Activities

• Art Viewing: Explore the museum’s collection and temporary exhibits.
• Garden Walks: Stroll through the sculpture gardens and enjoy the coastal views.
• Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and family activities.

Sebago Lake

Sebago Lake, located in southern Maine, is the second-largest lake in the state and a popular destination for outdoor recreation.

Key Features

• Crystal Clear Waters: Known for its clean, clear waters perfect for swimming and boating.
• Sebago Lake State Park: Offers camping, hiking, and beach access.
• Fishing: The lake is home to various fish species, making it a popular fishing spot.

Activities

• Swimming and Boating: Enjoy the lake’s beaches and rent boats or kayaks.
• Camping and Hiking: Stay at one of the campgrounds and explore the park’s trails.
• Fishing: Try your luck fishing for salmon, trout, and bass.

The Maine Maritime Museum

The Maine Maritime Museum, located in Bath, offers a comprehensive look at Maine’s rich maritime history.

Key Features

• Historic Shipyard: The museum is located on the site of a 19th-century shipyard.
• Exhibits: Features exhibits on shipbuilding, maritime trade, and sea life.
• Boat Tours: Offers boat tours of the Kennebec River and nearby lighthouses.

Activities

• Museum Tours: Explore the exhibits and learn about Maine’s maritime heritage.
• Boat Tours: Take a guided boat tour to see historic ships and lighthouses.
• Workshops and Events: Participate in hands-on workshops and special events.

The Maine Wildlife Park

The Maine Wildlife Park, located in Gray, is a sanctuary for native wildlife, providing a safe haven for animals unable to survive in the wild.

Key Features

• Native Animals: Home to moose, black bears, deer, and various birds of prey.
• Educational Programs: Offers programs and exhibits on wildlife conservation.
• Nature Trails: Walking trails throughout the park allow visitors to explore the habitats.

Activities

• Wildlife Viewing: See and learn about Maine’s native animals.
• Educational Programs: Participate in talks, demonstrations, and interactive exhibits.
• Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic in the designated areas while surrounded by nature.

The Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail, stretching over 2,190 miles from Georgia to Maine, offers some of its most challenging and scenic hiking sections in Maine.

Key Features

• Mount Katahdin: The northern terminus of the trail, located in Baxter State Park.
• Scenic Views: Stunning vistas of mountains, forests, and lakes.
• Diverse Terrain: Includes rugged mountains, dense forests, and river crossings.

Activities

• Hiking: Take on a section of the trail or embark on the full journey.
• Camping: Numerous shelters and campsites along the trail.
• Wildlife Viewing: Spot moose, deer, and various bird species.

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Overview

Located in Boothbay, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is one of the largest botanical gardens in New England, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and natural spaces.

Key Features

• Themed Gardens: Includes the Rhododendron Garden, Rose & Perennial Garden, and the Children’s Garden.
• Native Plants: Showcases a wide variety of native Maine plants.
• Art Installations: Features sculptures and other art installations throughout the gardens.

Activities

• Garden Tours: Take a guided tour to learn about the plants and gardens.
• Nature Trails: Explore the walking trails that wind through the gardens.
• Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and family activities.

The Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory

The Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, located in Prospect, offers stunning views of the Penobscot River and surrounding area.

Key Features

• Tallest Bridge Observatory: The observatory, located 420 feet above the river, provides panoramic views.
• Engineering Marvel: The bridge itself is an impressive feat of engineering.
• Fort Knox State Historic Site: Adjacent to the bridge, this historic fort offers tours and exhibits.

Activities

• Observatory Visits: Ride the elevator to the top for breathtaking views.
• Fort Knox Tours: Explore the historic fort and learn about its history.
• Photography: Capture stunning photos of the bridge and surrounding landscape.

The Colby College Museum of Art

The Colby College Museum of Art, located in Waterville, is one of the finest college art museums in the country, featuring an impressive collection of American and contemporary art.

Key Features

• Extensive Collection: Includes works by John Singer Sargent, James McNeill Whistler, and contemporary artists.
• Architectural Beauty: The museum building itself is a work of art, with modern design and open spaces.
• Special Exhibitions: Hosts rotating exhibitions and special events.

Activities

• Art Viewing: Explore the museum’s permanent collection and temporary exhibits.
• Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and family activities.
• Museum Shop: Browse art-related books, prints, and gifts.

The Abbe Museum

The Abbe Museum, located in Bar Harbor, is dedicated to the history and culture of the Native American Wabanaki people.

Key Features

• Cultural Exhibits: Features artifacts, art, and exhibits on the Wabanaki tribes.
• Educational Programs: Offers workshops, lectures, and cultural events.
• Historic Sites: Includes the original Abbe Museum in Sieur de Monts Spring.

Activities

• Exhibit Tours: Explore the museum’s collections and learn about Wabanaki history and culture.
• Workshops and Lectures: Participate in educational programs and cultural events.
• Historic Site Visits: Visit the original museum site and learn about its significance.

The Maine State Museum

The Maine State Museum, located in Augusta, provides a comprehensive look at the state’s history, culture, and natural environment.

Key Features

• Diverse Exhibits: Covers topics such as natural history, industry, and the state’s cultural heritage.
• Historic Artifacts: Includes artifacts from Maine’s Native American tribes, early settlers, and industrial era.
• Interactive Displays: Engaging exhibits for visitors of all ages.

Activities

• Museum Tours: Explore the exhibits and learn about Maine’s history.
• Educational Programs: Participate in workshops, lectures, and family activities.
• Special Exhibitions: Check out rotating exhibits and special events.

The Wadsworth-Longfellow House

The Wadsworth-Longfellow House, located in Portland, is the childhood home of poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and a beautifully preserved historic site.

Key Features

• Historic Home: The house is preserved with original furnishings and artifacts from the Longfellow family.
• Literary Significance: Learn about Longfellow’s life and works.
• Gardens: The house features lovely gardens maintained by the Maine Historical Society.

Activities

• Guided Tours: Explore the home and learn about its history and the Longfellow family.
• Special Events: Attend literary events and themed tours.
• Garden Walks: Enjoy a stroll through the historic gardens.

The International Cryptozoology Museum

The International Cryptozoology Museum, located in Portland, is the world’s only museum dedicated to the study of cryptozoology, the search for and study of unknown, legendary, or hidden animals.

Key Features

• Unique Exhibits: Features displays on Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and other cryptids.
• Historical Artifacts: Includes artifacts and evidence related to cryptozoological research.
• Educational Displays: Learn about the science and history of cryptozoology.

Activities

• Museum Tours: Explore the unique exhibits and learn about cryptozoological creatures.
• Special Events: Attend lectures, film screenings, and special events.
• Gift Shop: Browse books, souvenirs, and cryptozoology-related items.

Historic York

York, one of the earliest English settlements in the United States, is a historic town rich in colonial and maritime heritage.

Key Features

• Old York Historical Society: Preserves and interprets the town’s history through museums and historic buildings.
• York Harbor: A scenic area with beautiful views and historic homes.
• Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse: One of Maine’s most iconic lighthouses, located on a rocky island.

Activities

• Historic Tours: Visit historic buildings and museums, including the Old Gaol and Jefferds Tavern.
• Beach Visits: Enjoy York’s beautiful beaches, such as Long Sands Beach and Short Sands Beach.
• Lighthouse Viewing: Take in the views of Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse.

Kittery

Kittery, located just across the border from New Hampshire, is known for its historic sites, outlet shopping, and maritime heritage.

Key Features

• Kittery Premium Outlets: A popular shopping destination with a wide variety of stores.
• Fort McClary State Historic Site: A historic fort offering tours and scenic views of the harbor.
• Prescott Park: A waterfront park with gardens, walking paths, and performance spaces.

Activities

• Shopping: Explore the outlets and local boutiques.
• Historic Site Tours: Visit Fort McClary and other historic landmarks.
• Outdoor Recreation: Enjoy walking, picnicking, and events at Prescott Park.

Sanford

Sanford is a vibrant town in southern Maine, known for its parks, historic sites, and community events.

Key Features

• Number One Pond: A popular spot for walking, fishing, and community events.
• Sanford-Springvale Historical Museum: Showcases the history of Sanford and the surrounding area.
• Sanford Mainers Baseball: A collegiate summer baseball team providing family-friendly entertainment.

Activities

• Outdoor Activities: Enjoy the parks, trails, and recreational facilities in Sanford.
• Historic Tours: Visit the historical museum and explore the town’s heritage.
• Community Events: Participate in local events, including farmers’ markets and festivals.

Ogunquit Beach

Ogunquit Beach is one of Maine’s most beautiful and popular beaches, known for its soft sand and picturesque setting.

Key Features

• Three Miles of Beach: A long stretch of sandy beach perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
• Ogunquit River: Flows into the ocean, creating a scenic estuary.
• Lifeguards and Amenities: The beach is well-maintained with lifeguards, restrooms, and snack bars.

Activities

• Swimming and Sunbathing: Enjoy the clean, sandy beach and warm waters.
• Beach Walks: Stroll along the shore and take in the scenic views.
• Water Activities: Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or surfing.

Maine offers a wealth of attractions that cater to a variety of interests, from outdoor adventures and historical sites to art museums and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re hiking in Acadia National Park, strolling along the Marginal Way, or exploring the rich maritime history at the Maine Maritime Museum, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the beautiful state of Maine.

There are dozens of other great Maine attractions to visit. To assist your Maine vacation planning we have organized our Maine Attraction Guide suggestions by region. Thank you for visiting Maine Living.