Where to go in Maine – Ten Best Places to Visit

Pine trees. Lobsters. Lighthouses. A few of the many things Maine is known for.

As my birth state and the location I lived for the first 18 years of my life, Maine will always hold a special place in my heart. Leaving to live in others places in the United States and abroad has only made me appreciate it more.

I’ve been essentially everywhere in Maine and I definitely have my favorite places. Here are my top ten…

Where to go in Maine – 10 Best Places to Visit

1. Acadia National Park

I sincerely believe Acadia is the best national park in the entirety of the US. Rocky cliffs peering off in the blue ocean- mountains, beautiful forests, and beaches. I have been several times and it never fails to stun me.

The quiet and peaceful nature of northern Maine always leaves me feeling rejuvenated. There’s gotta be a little magic in the air I should think.

2. Bar Harbor

Located conveniently right next to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is a quaint little seaside village with lovely local shops and eateries. Many people will either stay at an inn here or camp within Acadia National Park when they visit. I’ve done both and they are both great options.

3. Portland

Portland is the biggest city in Maine. While a lot of the city is nothing special, there is a particular section of the city called the Old Port, which is situated right on the water. Here, old cobblestone streets and a multitude of restaurants greet you. There is even a bar street where many locals go out at night.

In recent days, Portland has become a very popular place to live. Rent has shot up like never before. This goes to show how great it is.

4. Portland Headlight

A magnificent lighthouse, one of the most famous in the world, sit on the channel leading in Casco Bay in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, right near Portland. The lighthouse is itself a historical building, built in 1791 (which makes it the oldest lighthouse in Maine. A trip to the lighthouse is a definite must if you ever happen to be in Maine.

Trying to show my visiting friends the lighthouse on the coldest freaking day ever

5. Kennebunk / Ogunquit 

In southern Maine, near the border with New Hampshire, there are a number of quaint seaside towns. Some of the beaches here are the best in Maine. There are also quite a few lovely coastal walking trails in these areas. 

6. Old Orchard Beach

I may be a bit biased because I live near Old Orchard Beach, but I find the seaside peer to be quite lovely. Many people flock here during the summer months to lay around on the beach or hit up Palace Playland (a little theme park right on the water). Close nearby, Funtown Splashtown (a much better theme park), sits alongside a local drive-in movie theater and a water park. There is so much to do in this area.

7. Baxter State Park

Up in Northern Maine, Baxter State Park holds the tallest mountain in the state- Mount Katahdin. Mount Katahdin is famous for being either the start or the end of people’s treks along the Appalachian Trail. Baxter State Park itself is the epitome of pure Maine wilderness. If you’re at the right place at the right time, it’s not uncommon to spot a stray moose.

I climbed Mount Katahdin this past summer and it was amazing. It was difficult, yes, but worth it. If you’re a nature lover, I recommend setting up camp at Baxter State Park and climbing the mountain up Knife’s Edge (for scary incredible views).

8. Camden

Camden is another lovely little seaside town with beautiful mountains and camping destinations nearby. My friends and I did a camping and hiking trip in Camden a couple of summers ago and it was the highlight of my summer. Camden itself is absolutely lovely, and the views of the harbor from the top of the mountain were so beautiful.

9. Fall foliage

This isn’t exactly a destination as much as a thing you really have to do. During the autumn months, Maine turns into a red, orange, and yellow painting. Going to any of these destinations (especially Acadia National Park) in peak leaf season should be on everybody’s list. A fall in Maine is a fall well spent.

10. Freeport

Freeport is a shopping hub, but it’s also a cute New England town. It’s also host to one of Maine’s top attractions- L.L. Bean. If you’re on your way up north, you’ll most likely be driving by this town. You should definitely stop and take a little walk around the store- it’s Maine culture at its finest.

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I hope this list has helped you plan your trip to Maine! Drop a comment if you want to ask a local any questions 🙂

XO,

Megan