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10 Best Places to Visit in Maine

Located in the easternmost part of New England is bordered by Canada to the north and the Atlantic Ocean on both the east and south. Maine accounts for almost half of New England’s entire land area. Its northern reaches, known as The Great North Woods, are largely pristine wilderness while the coastal regions, supported over the years by fishing and tourism, are more heavily populated, particularly in the southern, warmer part of the state.

While the state is most frequently known for its rugged coastline and proliferation of lighthouses, Maine also has much more to offer. Here, visitors will discover national parks with boundless wildlife, charming historic towns, and ski resorts. An overview of the best places to visit in Maine :

10. Baxter State Park [SEE MAP]

Situated in the remote forests of northern Maine, Baxter State Park is an expansive wilderness area boasting a diverse population of wildlife and majestic mountain views. Among the most common wildlife making their home in Baxter State Park are black bear, moose, and white-tailed deer.

Several active beaver colonies also exist in the park. Birdwatchers often visit the park for the opportunity to catch sight of such species as eagles, hawks, owls, thrushes, warblers, and flycatchers.

The park also features several hiking trails and excellent overlooks. Overnight summer and winter camping is allowed in the park with reservations. Fishing, boating, swimming, and picnicking are also popular activities in the park.

9. Sugarloaf Ski Resort [SEE MAP]

Located in western Maine is the popular Sugarloaf Ski Resort. The largest ski resort located east of the Mississippi, Sugarloaf Ski Resort features a number of areas to appeal to skiers of all levels.

The Timberline Quad is located at Sugarloaf’s summit and boasts easy runs. For advanced runs, skiers head over to SuperQuad, which is the most popular lift on Sugarloaf Mountain. The resort is home to six restaurants and boasts a number of summer activities, including golf, mountain biking, hiking, ziplining, and tennis.

8. Rockland, Maine [SEE MAP]

Known as the Lobster Capital of the World, Rockland has developed an entire economy based on lobster catching. Each year, thousands of visitors make their way to Rockland to enjoy the annual Maine Lobster Festival as well as the North Atlantic Blue Festival. Along Main Street, visitors can sample excellent restaurants as well as shops, and the well-known Farnsworth Art Museums.

Windjammer cruises are also popular among visitors who wish to explore the nearby islands. While sailing and stand up paddle boarding are also popular activities, many visitors prefer taking a stroll along the breakwater out to the lighthouse.

7. Ogunquit [SEE MAP]

Ogunquit in southern Maine may have started out as a small fishing village, but today this artists’ haven is a popular summer destination. Best known for its 3-mile sandy beach, Ogunquit offers plenty of charm along with galleries, and art museums. Visitors will find a lovely selection of bed and breakfast inns.

While the town is easily walkable, there is also a trolley that makes it easy to get around town. Marginal Way, a paved pathway located above the Atlantic Ocean, offers fabulous views as well as the opportunity to stop for a snack or a cold drink while meandering between Perkins Cove and Shore Road.

6. Old Orchard Beach [SEE MAP]

Known for its wide sandy beach and carnival-like atmosphere, Old Orchard Beach has much to offer, including ample shops, activities, and festivals. Among the top attractions at Old Orchard Beach is The Pier. This 500-foot (150 meter) wooden walkway extends out into the Atlantic Ocean and is filled with a variety of souvenir shops, food stands, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Palace Playland is another top attraction, particularly for young visitors, who will enjoy roller coasters, fireworks, and carnival games while at this beachfront amusement park. During the summer, Old Orchard Beach boasts a music festival, fireworks, chowder fests, and a hot air balloon festival.

5. Camden Hills State Park [SEE MAP]

Camden Hills State Park boasts an array of activities for visitors of all tastes. Among the popular activities include scenic drives, hiking, and camping. Many visitors also enjoy taking a ferry ride out to the nearby islands. Sea kayak tours, windjammer tours, and fishing charters are also great ways to explore the nearby coast.

Oceanside picnic areas provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing lunch. A favorite hike is the 45-minute climb up Mount Battie, which offers exquisite views of the surrounding wooded hillsides, lakes, Penobscot Bay, and Camden Harbor. The park is open from mid-May through mid-October.

4. Kennebunkport [SEE MAP]

Known for its historic homes dating back to the 18th century, Kennebunkport is located in southern Maine and offers an array of attractions to explore. The epicenter of activity is Dock Square lined with cafes, art galleries and upscale boutiques. Kennebunkport is also home to one of the biggest beaches in the region.

Grand mansions and hotels overlook the surf, including the massive George Bush Sr compound on a protected spit of land called Walker’s Point. Numerous bed and breakfast inns are also situated throughout Kennebunkport and nearby Kennebunk, making it easy for visitors to find accommodations.

3. Portland, Maine [SEE MAP]

From ornate mansions to ocean views, Portland is a charming city (the largest in Maine) that offers an eclectic array of attractions. Visitors to Portland may enjoy walking down the cobblestone streets of the revitalized Old Port District or explore the city’s many unique boutiques, shops and art galleries.

Portland is also well known for its local breweries as well as breathtaking views of Casco Bay and the surrounding islands. Since Portland is a seaport town, there are many types of water-based activities to enjoy, such as whale watching trips, lobster boat tours, fishing trips, ferry cruises, and more.

2. Bar Harbor [SEE MAP]

Situated on the northeast shores of Frenchman Bay, the bustling town of Bar Harbor is the largest community on Mount Desert Island. A variety of activities is on tap at Bar Harbor, including shopping at a myriad of quaint shops, boutiques, and galleries. Visitors will also find an excellent selection of restaurants.

Other popular attractions include the Bar Harbor Historical Society, Abbe Museum, and Asticou Azalea Gardens. Bar Harbor is also conveniently located near Acadia National Park, making it an ideal base for visitors to the park. Summer and fall tend to be the most popular times to visit Bar Harbor.

1. Acadia National Park [SEE MAP]

Boasting pristine views and abundant wildlife, Acadia National Park is the only national park in all of New England. Here, visitors are able to enjoy boundless opportunities for rock climbing, hiking, kayaking, biking, or enjoying scenic vistas.

The carriage road system that winds its way through Acadia National Park was originally developed by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. and offers many excellent points of interest. An Island Explorer bus makes its way through the park, making it easy for visitors to enjoy all of the park’s many scenic views. Among the most popular drives in Acadia is Park Loop Road, which boasts multiple scenic overlooks.

Map of Maine

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Written by KATELYN MICHAUD

10 best places to visit in

ome for the lobster and lighthouses, stay for the granite peaks and tranquil woodlands. With the slogan, “the way life should be,” Maine is more than just Vacationland, it will capture your heart.

Ere’s our guide to 10 of maine’s most popular and off-the-beaten-path places to visit in the "pine tree state.", acadia national park.

10 best places to visit in Maine

s the first national park east of the Mississippi River, Acadia National Park is one of the most popular national parks in New England and for good reason.

Ts soaring granite peaks with a dramatic rocky coastline and inner woodlands offer something for everyone., he park features 26 mountain peaks, including cadillac mountain, the tallest peak on the north atlantic seaboard. drive or hike cadillac mountain to watch the epic sunrise as it wakes america up., isit sand beach or echo lake for swimming and choose from an abundance of hiking trails of various difficulties. zip along the historic carriage trails by foot, bike, or horseback., aine’s largest city is home to award-winning restaurants, breweries and seafood. known for its lobster and seafood, portland also offers more breweries per capita than any other city in the country., njoy a pint at bissell brothers, allagash brewing company or rising tide brewing company. for a twist on lobster, stop by highroller lobster co. and try their lobster cheese crisp taco or lobby pop., tart your morning with a coffee and donuts from hifi donuts before walking and shopping your way through the historic cobblestone streets of the old port., et active by hopping on one of summer feet cycling’s bike tours out to the scenic portland head light. whatever you choose to do and eat in portland, make sure you bring your stretchy pants, moosehead lake, hile maine’s coastline might be its main attraction, its highlands and wilderness really steal the show. moosehead lake is maine’s largest lake that offers lots of rustic relaxation and fishing., ent a cabin or pitch a tent and enjoy a quiet week by the lake exploring the miles of hiking trails, streams for fly fishing, and lots of watersports on the lake., ake sure you spot in greenville to pick up some s’mores ingredients as you’ll want to build a campfire to stargaze in the dark sky. if you’re lucky, you may even spot the milky way..

24 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Maine

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 20, 2024

Few states can claim as many iconic images as Maine: fully rigged Windjammers, waves breaking against a rocky coast, lighthouses, pine woods, and fishing harbors filled with boats. The miles of backwoods inhabited by moose hold their own mystique and images: a lone canoe barely riffling the mirror-like surface of a forest-encircled lake, or rainbow trout jumping from crystal waters.

The remarkable thing about Maine is that it doesn't disappoint tourists who arrive with these romantic pictures in mind. Lighthouses do crown points from York to Quoddy Head, and between them lie dozens of snug little fishing harbors and mile after mile of rocky wave-beaten shore.

But Maine's attractions aren't all in iconic images, and between its museums, breathtaking gardens, art heritage, historic attractions, outdoor activities, and natural wonders, you're spoiled for choice of things to do on a Maine vacation.

I've seen Maine's attractions from many perspectives -- Moosehead Lake from a kayak and from a float plane, vast stretches of snow-covered wilderness from ski trails on Sugarloaf and Sunday River -- but my favorite view is of the islands and lighthouses from the deck of a Maine Windjammer as it sails through Casco Bay.

Let me help you discover your own favorite view, with this list of the best attractions and places to visit in Maine.

1. Acadia National Park & Mount Desert Island

2. the old port and portland head lighthouse, 3. marginal way and ogunquit beaches, 4. pemaquid point light, 5. old orchard beach, 6. coastal maine botanical gardens, 7. farnsworth art museum, 8. boothbay harbor, 9. rockland, 10. bar harbor, 12. nubble lighthouse (cape neddick light), 13. maine maritime museum, 14. west quoddy head & lighthouse, 15. portland museum of art & winslow homer studio, 16. cruising the maine coast, 17. kennebunkport, 18. monhegan island, 19. victoria mansion, portland, 20. desert of maine, 21. peaks island, 22. bowdoin college museum of art, 23. wiscasset, map of attractions & places to visit in maine, best time to visit maine.

The rugged and beautiful stretch of coastline that is set aside as Acadia National Park also surrounds a large inland region of lakes, streams, and forests. It provides a playground for locals and visitors who enjoy the outdoors. The scenic Park Loop Road winds its way through the park past the main attractions and is the best way to tour the park by car.

The handy Island Explorer buses also connect the various attractions, while cyclists and walkers can follow the network of unpaved carriage roads, part of the more than 100 miles of hiking trails for all levels of ability. These include trails to the summit of 1,530-foot Cadillac Mountain , the park's highest point, from which there are views of the coast and islands.

Other highlights in the park are Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and the dramatic chasm of Thunder Hole . A second and little-visited portion of Acadia National Park is farther north, on the Schoodic Peninsula , where there are more hiking trails, coastal views, and opportunities for kayaking. There are two large campgrounds in the park and several picnic areas.

Throughout Mount Desert Island are waterside villages overlooking small harbors. Of particular interest to garden lovers are Asticou Azalea Garden and neighboring Thuya Garden , both in Northeast Harbor. Asticou is a Japanese-inspired garden at its most spectacular in the spring, when the azaleas are in bloom around the pond. Thuya reaches its prime in June and July, when the perennial beds are at their showiest.

After strolling the paths through both these gardens, I cross the road to the historic Asticou Inn, where I sit on the verandah overlooking the gardens and harbor, and savor a pot of tea, with hot popovers slathered in wild blueberry jam. That's my idea of a perfect Maine afternoon.

• Read More: Acadia National Park: Best Hikes & Things to Do

Tourists looking for things to do in Portland invariably head straight for its harbor district, the Old Port. There, along with fishing boats, busy docks, and seafood restaurants, they may find a cruise ship or see the tall masts of a sailing ship, for Portland is still an active port.

The narrow streets that climb from the dockside Commercial Street are lined by the brick and stone buildings that supported one of the East Coast's busiest ports from colonial times through the 19 th century.

Shop for maritime souvenirs in a ships' chandlery, eat seafood on the wharf, and if you're there early enough, watch the fishing boats unload and local chefs choose the menu at the city's restaurants. Fore Street , which parallels Commercial, is where you'll find several of these. At the docks, you can board a cruise of Casco Bay or a ferry to visit its islands.

Tip: The island ferries that ply Casco Bay are the best bargain in town. You can take them to visit the individual islands, or you can just ride along on the entire circuit for a scenic cruise of the bay. In high season, if there are enough passengers, a tour guide shares interesting information on the islands, several of which have historic fortifications.

A landmark of Casco Bay is Portland Head Lighthouse , which marks the entrance to the harbor. It is one of the most beautiful along the coast, and from its promontory, you can see the city and Old Port, as well as the passing ships and boats.

The museum in the former Keeper's Quarters features exhibits on the lighthouses and their keepers, showing how these bastions of maritime safety have changed over the years with advances in technology. Along with historic photos, artifacts on display include Fresnel lenses and exhibits on how they work.

Address: 1000 Shore Road, Cape Elizabeth, Maine

The paved walking path along the shore from the center of Ogunquit to Perkins Cove is a beautiful way to see the rocky coast and its crashing surf.

Among the rocky cliffs are a series of small sandy coves that offer a more intimate beach experience than Ogunquit Beach, which is one of the most popular beaches in Maine . The Marginal Way is for walkers only (no bikes, no dogs from April to October) and runs about a mile and a half from the end of the village to the scenic wharfs of Perkins Cove .

Here, a slender peninsula shelters a small bay, creating a safe haven for small craft. Originally a small fishing port, today the harbor is overlooked by restaurants and small shops, but you'll still see plenty of fishing boats.

All along Marginal Way, benches are conveniently placed, both on the path and on overlooks above the sea. You can return to town on the same path, walk back along the shady Shore Road, or take the trolley.

Ogunquit Beach has a gentle slope to the sea and comparatively warm water, which makes it popular with families. The town's shops and restaurants are busy in the summer, and the thriving arts scene brings more tourists to the nationally known Ogunquit Playhouse and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art .

Author's tip: Around the museum (whose collections and special exhibitions are well worth seeing) are its outdoor exhibits, in a sculpture garden that slopes to the rocky shore. You can stroll through the gardens for free. Kids will love the largest of these works of art, the whimsical animal sculptures of Maine artist Bernard Langlais. Built from rough boards and scrap wood, the giant lion, horse, and rhino always bring smiles.

One of Maine's most iconic lighthouses stands at the end of the long Pemaquid Point in Mid-Coast Maine and is such a landmark that it was chosen as the image on the Maine quarter coin. It was built in 1835, and along with the light tower, the keeper's cottage and the brick sound signal house have been preserved. The setting is made even more dramatic by the unusual formations of striped metamorphic rock in the ledges below.

The keeper's cottage houses the Fisherman's Museum which preserves the region's strong fishing heritage, with captains' logs, models, dioramas, photos, and artifacts, including information on the shipwrecks off this point. The scenic point is a favorite site for picnics.

To the north, in New Harbor, Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site preserves the foundations of a colonial settlement and the reconstructed Fort William Henry . The museum and excellent sign boards explain the importance of this fort in the conflicts involving English and French settlers and the local Native Americans. The archaeological site has been designated a National Historic Landmark.

An unabashed old-fashioned beach resort, Old Orchard Beach revels in the somewhat tacky honky-tonk atmosphere of its pier and thrill rides at New England's only remaining full-scale amusement park on a beach. So kick off your shoes, step back into mid-century summer fun, and indulge in a little nostalgia.

Palace Playland has all the expected rides: a Ferris wheel right over the waves, a roller coaster, an old-fashioned carousel, bumper cars, and a dozen or so other kid-pleasers. Pier stands and street-side windows sell fries, soft ice cream, saltwater taffy, and fried dough.

The highlight of all this is a full seven miles of golden sand beach with free public access. The sands are scoured each night by volunteers, so you won't find a cleaner beach anywhere, and separating most of the seven miles of beach from the line of low hotels and shops is a barrier of grassy dunes.

Old Orchard is also the only Maine beach where you can arrive directly by train, which is one reason this is such a popular weekend getaway destination from Boston ; the Amtrak station is opposite the pier and amusement park.

Author's Tip: I can't go to Old Orchard Beach without a stop at Pier French Fries , a traditional stop for locals and tourists since 1932. Do you need French fries? Of course you do — it's part of the Old Orchard Beach experience.

Strolling the paths through this 270-acre garden, it's almost impossible to believe that the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens opened as recently as 2007. The profusion of bloom and the size of the well-manicured and creatively designed gardens achieve the sense that they have been pampered by generations of devoted horticulturalists.

The paths wind among the various themed gardens, showing native and exotic plants that thrive in woodland, water, and other environments. There is a kitchen garden, and a garden for the five senses spotlights plants for their fragrances, flavors, and textures, in raised beds for wheelchair access. The large children's garden will charm any age, as will the woodland village of fairy houses.

Walking trails traverse the grounds, which slope down to the shore and include various shore environments. Daily tours point out highlights and follow themes such as rare and native plants. A large collection of original sculpture by regional artists highlights the gardens, and art exhibitions are held in the visitor center throughout the spring, summer, and fall.

Tip to parents: The Children's Garden here is a major part of the extensive campus. Like the rest of the gardens, it is scattered with sculptures — these inspired by children's books written by Maine authors. My kids' favorite is the lifelike bronze of Sal's Bear , by Nancy Schon, based on Robert McCloskey's Blueberries for Sal .

Highlights of the themed gardens are a cottage with a grass roof, an arbor tunnel to walk through, a maze lawn, a giant tree house, and a fanciful fairy house.

Address: 132 Botanical Gardens Drive, Boothbay, Maine

In the heart of downtown Rockland, the Farnsworth Art Museum is one of New England's best, which is saying a lot in a region with such a rich art heritage. No other museum has such a complete collection of works by artists connected with Maine, and its Wyeth Center is one of only two in the country dedicated to the work of the three generations of Wyeths – N.C., Andrew, and James.

The Farnsworth Art Museum's collections include some of America's most prominent late 19th- and early 20th-century landscape painters. Along with the earliest known work by Thomas Cole, you can see paintings by George Bellows, Rockwell Kent, John La Farge, George Inness, Childe Hassam, and maritime artist Fitz Henry Lane.

A separate building, a former church on Union Street, exhibits works of James Wyeth and N.C. Wyeth. The Farnsworth also arranges tours of the Olson House, made famous in several works by Andrew Wyeth, the best-known of which is his 1948 painting Christina's World .

Author's Tip: Ask at the museum for directions to visit the Olson House, a farmhouse made famous by Andrew Wyeth in his 1948 painting Christina's World . You can see the exterior of the house, which stands on Hathorne Point Road in Cushing, Maine, or see the interior on a guided tour arranged through the museum.

Address: 6 Museum Street, Rockland, Maine

Once a busy shipping port, Boothbay Harbor today is primarily a popular summer resort, with the largest boating harbor north of Boston.

Schooner cruises, whale watches , lighthouse viewing trips, and island cruises begin here, sailing from a harbor so big that in the days of sail several hundred vessels could find safety here during a storm.

For the best view of the waterfront and all the boats, walk across the 1,000-foot-long Boothbay Harbor Footbridge, a wooden walkway across the harbor that's been a landmark since 1901. You can rent kayaks near the footbridge to explore the harbor and shore. In East Boothbay, Linekin Bay is popular for kayaking .

The downtown area is packed with waterfront seafood restaurants, antique shops, and art galleries, reflecting the more than 200 artists and craftspeople who live and summer in the area.

It has been a haven for the arts since the early 1800s, and along with studios and galleries, the little town has an Opera House and Carousel Music Theater , as well as a community band. Reflecting this love of the arts, the Boothbay Harbor Sculpture Trail leads past more than three dozen original sculptures decorating streets and public spaces.

You can learn more about marine wildlife at the Maine State Aquarium , and ride in a vintage coach behind a century-old steam locomotive at the Boothbay Railway Village .

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Boothbay Harbor, ME

Circling a large harbor protected by Owl's Head and a long stone breakwater, Rockland's historic downtown, lined with nicely maintained 19th-century brick mercantile buildings, speaks of a prosperous past.

This was a thriving port for the limestone quarried in the surrounding hills. Until the 1950s, the harbor was lined with kilns that processed the stone for shipment to eastern cities for use as mortar and plaster.

This old seaport town is worth a stop for several attractions, including Owl's Head Light and the Owl's Head Transportation Museum ; Rockland is one of the home ports for the Maine Windjammer Fleet, whose historic sailing ships you can often see moored here.

The town and the nearby islands of Penobscot Bay have long attracted artists, whose works you can see in Rockland's numerous galleries and museums.

You can visit some of the islands that inspired them, on ferries from downtown Rockland. Regular ferry departures can take you to Islesboro, where you can hike through a rare cedar swamp, or get away from the mainland crowds at one of the island's beaches. On Vinalhaven, you can hike through nature reserves, rent kayaks to explore the shoreline, or swim in a former granite quarry.

More than just a base for exploring Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is a lively town with a long history as an oceanside resort. Its streets are still lined by impressive "summer cottages" built during the Gilded Age, when wealthy city families came here to escape soaring city temperatures. Today several of these are elegant inns and B&Bs.

Stroll along Frenchman Bay as they did, following the Shore Path from Agrimont Park, for views of the bay and islands. Or at low tide, walk across the bar to Bar Island – but be careful to return before the water covers the track.

Shop in the classy boutiques and artisans' galleries; dine on ocean-fresh seafood; take a whale-watching cruise; and relax to the music of the town band, which plays on The Green two evenings a week in the summer.

The excellent Abbe Museum has an exceptional collection of Native American arts, and across the street from it is St. Savior Episcopal Church, with stunning Tiffany stained-glass windows .

Expect Bar Harbor to be less crowded on cruise ship days from now on; a limit has been imposed on the number and size of ships allowed to make a port stop here.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Bar Harbor, ME

Just north of Rockland, Camden is Maine's other harbor for Windjammers , and you can often see these graceful tall ships in the large harbor. You can also take a two-hour schooner cruise from here.

The harbor sits just below Camden's busy Main Street (Route 1) and Bay View Street, where you'll find shops and galleries featuring everything from fashionable resort wear and fine art to dreamy knitting yarns and vintage garden ornaments.

For a harbor and island view unmatched anywhere south of Acadia National Park, climb or drive to the top of Mount Battie , in Camden Hills State Park, where hikers will find more than 30 miles of trails. For more trails, and beautiful flowers, stop at Merryspring Nature Center .

A block from the busy intersection of Elm and High streets, look for the colorful Riverhouse Footbridge , a garden of flower boxes and leafy arbors suspended over the short Megunticook River. After flowing under downtown buildings, the river ends in the dramatic little Megunticook Falls as it enters the harbor.

Camden's charms don't end when winter arrives. The Camden Snow Bowl claims two distinctions: it's the only ski mountain in the East with ocean views from its trails , and it's the home of a 400-foot toboggan chute . You can take a turn on the precipitous ice-covered track that hosts the annual U.S. National Toboggan Championships.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Camden, ME

Perhaps New England's most photographed lighthouse, and certainly one of the easiest to get to, Nubble Light poses on its own islet just off the rocky point of Cape Neddick. Especially on a rising tide, the surf usually obliges photographers with a few waves breaking into froth against the rocks.

In late November, the lighthouse and keeper's cottage are outlined in lights for the holiday season, and the annual lighting is celebrated with music, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa. You can take a cruise from Ogunquit to see the lighthouse from the water.

The point bounds one end of Long Sands, the largest of two popular beaches in York . The southern end of the beach is a favorite for surfers; York is known to those of us who grew up swimming there as the beach with the coldest water on the entire south coast.

In another of the four villages that make up the town, the Old York Historical Society museum complex includes Jefferds Tavern and the 1745 York Corner Schoolhouse , one of the oldest surviving in New England.

On the site of a 19th-century shipyard where large wooden sailing vessels were built and launched, the Maine Maritime Museum preserves and interprets Maine's seafaring, shipbuilding, and lobstering heritage.

Along with the extensive collection of artifacts and materials that make up exhibits on everything from the clipper ships and lighthouses to maritime art, the 20-acre campus includes a blacksmith shop, and a working shop for the restoration of wooden boats.

A highlight is a 36-foot section of the bow of the American clipper Snow Squall , built in Portland in 1851. It was retrieved on archaeological expeditions to the Falkland Islands, where it had run aground in 1864.

The more than 140 Maine-built or Maine-related boats in the collections include an antique birchbark canoe. The Mary E , the oldest fishing schooner built in Maine, is part of the floating collections, one of three in the museum that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Address: 243 Washington Street, Bath, Maine

The dramatic red-and-white stripes of its lighthouse, plus the thrill of standing at the easternmost point in the United States, make West Quoddy Head & Lighthouse one of the most popular places to visit on the northeast coast of Maine.

The brick lighthouse was opened in 1858, but there has been one here since 1808, when President Thomas Jefferson ordered it built to guide ships through the Quoddy Narrows. The current lighthouse is 49 feet tall, and the lantern rises 83 feet above the sea.

Learn more about the lighthouse and its history at the Quoddy Head State Park Visitor Center in the former Keeper's Cottage and take a tour of the light tower itself on Saturday afternoons in July and August. The lighthouse is on the National Register of Historic Places .

Five miles of hiking trails explore the point, which is a prime spot for viewing sea birds, especially during the spring and fall migrations. You might also spot humpback, minke, and finback whales in the narrows, which is bounded on the opposite side by the tall red cliffs of Grand Manan Island in New Brunswick.

An easy one-mile trail in the park leads to a coastal plateau bog, where you can see subarctic and arctic plants rarely seen this far south.

Address: South Lubec Road, Lubec, Maine

The superb collections of the Portland Museum of Art go far beyond the expected works of those artists who lived and painted here – artists such as Winslow Homer, Rockwell Kent, and the Wyeths.

Among the more than 18,000 pieces of fine and decorative art, dating from the 1700s onwards, are works by Monet, Degas, Picasso, Warhol, Sargent, Whistler, Mary Cassatt, Gilbert Stuart, Joshua Reynolds, Alexander Calder, George Bellows, and Edward Hopper.

The museum also features traveling and temporary exhibits throughout the year. Attached to the museum is a historic house, formerly home to a prominent Portland family, with outstanding examples of period furniture, art, and decorative details.

Separate from the Portland facility, and accessible only by tours that originate here, is the studio of artist Winslow Homer , overlooking the sea on Prouts Neck, a point of land in nearby Scarborough, Maine.

Address: 7 Congress Square, Portland, Maine

Don't miss the chance to see the craggy, irregular Maine coast and its rock-bound islands from the water. Not only will you get a new perspective on the lighthouses and granite cliffs, but you'll have a chance to be part of the busy harbor life of Maine's seaport towns.

The options are many. You can join a whale watching tour from Bar Harbor, go deep sea fishing from Eastport, take a Puffin Tour to Machias Seal Island from Jonesport or Stonington, join a lobster boat out of Portland to haul traps, or take a seal cruise from there to Eagle Island.

From Boothbay Harbor, you can go deep-sea fishing, take a day sailing cruise along the coast, go whale watching, or even join a local lobsterman hauling traps. From Ogunquit, you can take a breakfast sightseeing tour or cruise to see York's Nubble Lighthouse from the water.

Boat experiences can be as short as the 15-mile ferry ride from Rockland to Vinalhaven or a week-long cruise under sail on a Maine Windjammer out of Rockland or Camden. Windjammer cruises are informal, with the itinerary determined by winds and tides, and passengers can help with the lines and sails if they wish. Special theme cruises may feature lighthouses, music, star gazing or boat races.

Most of the windjammers are suitable for adults only, although those as young as 12 are welcome on some ships — a popular vacation option for grandparents traveling with teens. Couples looking for a romantic vacation should book one of the full moon cruises.

The little coastal town of Kennebunkport, 12.5 miles south of Portland, is very popular in summer. Stately homes of former ship captains and owners, some of which have been carefully restored as bed-and-breakfasts, line its quiet streets, and you can learn about these on a self-guided walking tour, or at the Historical Society's First Families Kennebunkport Museum , in an 1853 Greek Revival home.

Shopping and gallery-hopping are favorite pastimes in the small commercial area of restored dockside buildings around Dock Square, which is lined with shops, studios, boutiques, and restaurants. Parsons Way, a scenic path, begins from the square and leads along the shore to Walker's Point . At the other side of the Kennebunk River, a series of sandy beaches line the shore.

Two miles east of Dock Square is the still-active fishing village of Cape Porpoise , with more shops and galleries, along with working lobster boats. Also of interest is the Seashore Trolley Museum .

In nearby Kennebunk, look for the outstanding Brick Store Museum and drive past the fanciful Wedding Cake House on Summer Street. The entire street, designated as the Summer Street Historical District, is lined with elegant Victorian mansions.

Read More: Top-Rated Things to Do in Kennebunkport, ME

Monhegan is a small island that lies 10 miles off the coast of Maine, and although it's one of many inhabited coastal islands, it has achieved iconic status over the years. This is in large part due to its long history as an artists' colony, coupled with the many tales of its hardy population and their lives on this storm-swept outpost.

There are no cars or paved roads on the island, and its 75 year-round residents are mainly engaged in fishing and lobstering. During the summer, visitors can take day trips to the island from Boothbay Harbor, New Harbor, and Port Clyde, but will have only three or four hours ashore.

Monhegan's combination of rugged granite cliffs (the highest ocean cliffs in Maine), crashing waves, and unique light, coupled with its air of an untouched fishing village, has made it a destination for artists since the middle of the 1800s. Because of this long-term art colony and the several dozen artists who currently work there, you'll find an abundance of studios and galleries.

Monhegan's art colony began in the mid-1800s, and by the turn of the 20 th century was a well-established summer colony. Artist Rockwell Kent built a home and studio there, later the studio of painter James Edward Fitzgerald.

Now a gallery of his work, the James Fitzgerald – Rockwell Kent Historic Artists' Home and Studio is managed by the Monhegan Museum of Art & History, whose collections include works by both of these artists and others who painted here.

Art isn't the only appeal of Monhegan, a favorite of birders for migra ting Merlins, American Kestrels, Peregrine Falcons , and others that touch down here.

Author's tip: To hike the island trails and see some of the artists' favorite viewpoints, get a trail map at Monhegan Associates, near the ferry landing. Wear good boots, as the trails are rough and often run along steep clifftops. Be very careful on the shoreline rocks anywhere along the southern or back side of the island, where rogue waves and a fierce undertow are constant dangers.

The beautifully preserved Victoria Mansion is an extraordinary Italian-style villa built in the mid-19th century.

The architecture and the interior details are exquisite, and it's one of the most lavishly decorated mid-Victorian homes in the country, with painted walls and ceilings and ornately carved woodwork. Most of the furnishings are original, and along with the house itself, they provide a glimpse into how Portland's wealthy lived during the pre-civil war era.

While Maine has many historic homes you can visit, representing all eras and lifestyles from the colonial era forward, Victoria Mansion offers an example of Victorian art and culture that is unparalleled.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Portland, Maine

While you'll find plenty of sand on Maine's beaches, you don't expect to find acres of it inland, surrounded by pine forests. A true desert, with its enormous shifting dunes that cover forests and entire buildings, the Desert of Maine is a geologic anomaly – and a Freeport success story.

When I was growing up and traveling the Maine coast with my parents, I was enthralled by the roadside signs showing camels, palm trees, and Arabian tents. But with the support of the town, this one-time hokey tourist trap is now a natural attraction, well-cared-for by locals Mela and Doug Heestand and highlighting its natural history, science, and local history.

Large signboards with photos of the farm that once stood here explain how old farming practices stripped the topsoil from this sandpit left by glaciers. They explain how, in this active environment, the dunes shift constantly, and you can see the former spring house now being dug out of the dune that swallowed it.

I was surprised to learn that little pine trees growing out of the top of a dune were actually the tops of full-grown pines hidden beneath the sand. It's not all serious science -- you'll want to stop for a photo-op with the colorful camel.

Tip for parents: I enjoy visiting as an adult, but kids are even more excited to explore the Desert of Maine. They can find ancient bones in the Fossil Dig, discover artifacts from early colonial settlers in the Secret Sandbox, and dig in the sand at Gemstone Village where they can keep three polished gems that they find. A Maine-themed playground is filled with clever slides and climbing towers.

Address: 95 Desert Road, Freeport, Maine

Technically part of the city of Portland, Peaks Island seems a different world, separated by a ferry ride. The ride is part of the fun of visiting; the fare is inexpensive, and you get a nice mini-cruise in Portland Harbor, past Fort Gorges and other small islands.

Like many along the Maine coast, Peaks Island played a defensive role during World War II. Battery Steele is the largest of the island's military structures, occupying 14 acres facing the Atlantic. Walking trails connect its three sections (two gun batteries with command and munitions in the middle), and you can walk through the echoing abandoned passages — be sure to bring a powerful flashlight.

My favorite place to sit and contemplate the ocean is at Whaleback Ledge (named for its whale-shaped rocks), but Cairn Beach is a close second. Although not a swimming beach, it's a scenic spot where you won't be able to resist making your own little rock monument.

Several art galleries are worth perusing, as well as the quirky Umbrella Cover Museum , the world's largest (and only) collection of umbrella sheaths. For a full meal, several good options are close to the ferry with views of the water and surrounding islands. Get snacks and lighter fare at Milly's Skillet Food Truck and ice cream at Down Front .

Having a car here is more hindrance than help because there is simply nowhere to park on the island. You can realistically visit most of the island's attractions on foot in a full day. Getting around by bicycle (bring your own on the ferry or rent one at Brad's Island Bike Rentals & Repairs ) is a faster way, but I prefer renting a cart from Peaks Island Golf Carts . To see all the sights without rushing, give yourself at least four hours, although I always end up wishing I had booked the cart for longer.

Author's Tip : If you're renting a cart or bicycle, book well ahead. It's also important to remember that although the ferry runs year-round for residents, most restaurants and shops are closed or reduce their hours between Labor Day and Memorial Day, so an off-season visit might not offer as much to do.

The Bowdoin College Museum of Art , on the college campus in Brunswick, features a permanent collection of more than 20,000 pieces, ranging from ancient Greek ceramics and a 15th-century painting by Florentine artist Fra Angelico to 17th-century New England furniture and mid-century modern furniture by Charles Eames.

Multiple works by Winslow Homer, Rockwell Kent, Gilbert Stuart, John Singleton Copley, and Maurice Prendergast highlight the collections, along with those of Bierstadt, Inness, Eakins, and Corot. Rotating temporary exhibits, gallery talks, tours, and lectures throughout the year make this an active cultural center.

Address: 245 Maine Street, Brunswick, Maine

If you are driving to the northern Maine Coast, you will go through the tidy center of Wiscasset. It is a renowned bottleneck on Route 1, and there's no workaround if you're heading for Boothbay Harbor and coastal points north. But Wiscasset is well worth a stop to explore its historic houses and browse in art galleries and antique shops.

Overlooking the main street, which is Route 1, is the Nickels-Sortwell House , one of the finest Federal homes in New England. It is beautifully restored, its rooms furnished in antiques, art, and period decorative features. The gardens are being restored to their original design and plantings.

Castle Tucker was built nearly a century later, in the late 19th century, as the home of a sea captain. Stroll some of the side streets to find more well-kept historic homes and churches.

The town wharf sits beside the long bridge that crosses the estuary of the Sheepscot River. You can order a full shore dinner or a seafood lunch at Sprague's and enjoy it at one of the picnic tables beside the water.

Bangor is one of Maine's most underrated places to visit, but if you're willing to make the long drive, you will be pleasantly surprised to find that it has very little in common with Stephen King's "Derry." Fans of the King of Horror's books and films should take a tour with SK Tours of Maine , but if getting creeped out isn't your thing, don't worry — there's plenty more to do and see in Bangor.

Bangor's Main Street is a lively area full of energy, lined with shops and a dizzying array of restaurant choices, almost all of them locally owned. You'll find everything from small-batch roasted coffee with fresh baked pastries to traditional German dishes with a local touch. This is also where you'll find the colorful Maine Discovery Museum (formerly the Eastern Maine Children's Museum).

Downtown straddles the Kenduskeag Stream, which looks more like a canal, with more places to visit along Harlow Street. These include the University of Maine's Zillman Art Museum and the beautiful Bangor Public Library, now a great source of pride thanks to the philanthropy of the King family.

The area offers several museums that please kids (and kids-at-heart). My favorite is the Cole Land Transportation Museum , which will scratch the nostalgia itch for adults and entertain kids (under 18 always get in free). You'll find everything from early tricycles to classic cars and vintage freight trucks to train cars that you can explore.

If you're interested in aviation, head to the Maine Air Museum , located next to the airport, and if you didn't see enough fire engines at the Cole Museum, try the Hose 5 Fire Museum .

Bangor and its surroundings have plenty of places to go to enjoy nature, and the Orono Bog Walk is my favorite. This handicap-accessible nature trail is a one-mile boardwalk loop with signage and optional guided naturalist tours. It's adjacent to the Bangor City Forest, which has over nine miles of multi-use trails.

Author's tip: A great spot to enjoy both Maine history and the outdoors is the Maine Forest and Logging Museum at Leonard's Mills, in nearby Bradley. As you walk the grounds of this open-air living history museum, you'll find historic buildings and equipment that show how people lived in rural Maine in the 18 th and 19 th centuries.

The best time to travel to Maine depends on what you want to do while you're here. If you're hoping to ski, head to the mountains during the winter (obviously). Want to hike through Acadia National Park ? Choose spring, summer, or fall. In general, though, the best time to visit Maine is during the summer , especially if you're headed for the coast, planning on spending time at a resort, or simply visiting small towns .

Yes, you'll be faced with hordes of tourists and yes, prices will be higher on everything from souvenirs to lunch to lodging. But with these downsides comes a big payoff: spectacular weather. Highs hover in the comfortable high 70s with lows dipping into the upper 50s. You won't be sweltering during the day or shivering at night, which is perfect.

Plus, this is an ideal time to visit Maine's best beaches , take a sail around Frenchman Bay from Bar Harbor, or enjoy a weekend getaway to Portland.

Another summertime bonus: all restaurants and attractions (many of which tend to close in the off-season) will be open. If you're itching to enjoy a meal in one of the state's best restaurants or stay in one of the top resorts in Maine, book early to ensure your summer visit is a success.

July and August experience the least amount of rain , with only 3.3 to 3.5 inches recorded to fall throughout the month, which is another plus.

A close second to summer is a tie between fall and winter . High season for the inland section of the state, these two seasons are popular for widely different reasons. Fall, which sits comfortably in the high 40s to high 50s, presents artists with a dream palette. Nature's bright red, yellow, and orange hues highlight the beauty of this New England masterpiece. Trees burst into color, captivating visitors and begging cameras to immortalize their beauty.

Winter is cold (sitting in the 30s) and often pummeled by snow. These conditions create a fantastic upside: optimal weather for those who prefer to spend their days on the slopes. Plus, there are plenty of indoor attractions to enjoy in big cities like Portland, so you won't be at a loss for ways to stay warm and entertained.

More on Maine

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The essential guide to visiting Maine

Here’s everything you need to know about exploring the Pine Tree State—when to go, where to stay, what to do, and how to get around.

Why you should visit Maine

Acadia National Park and Mount Katahdin . Lobster, lighthouses, and L.L. Bean . Woodsy camp culture.  

Best time to visit Maine

Spring: Ski resorts like Sugarloaf and Sunday River stay open well into April for late-spring skiing. It’s also a great time for a city break or a seaside escape with fewer crowds and cheaper rooms. However, spring is also “mud” season, making hiking trails mucky. Hikers and campers, beware: mid-May to mid-June are when aggressive black flies are most active.

Summer:   Peak tourism season typically runs from July 4th to Labor Day. Fairs and events like Machias Wild Blueberry Festival fill the calendar.

Autumn:   September into October is generally peak leaf-peeping season (check the state’s weekly foliage reports ), but there are plenty of places to escape crowds, especially in the sparsely populated North Woods . This is an ideal time to explore Acadia National Park   and Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument .

Winter : January generally gets the most snow.   It’s prime time for winter sports including skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and fat-tire biking across northern and western peaks and trails.  

Lay of the land

Cities: Portland may be Maine’s biggest city, but it maintains a friendly, small-town vibe. You can walk anywhere, from an indie boutique to a world-class museum and a nationally renowned restaurant (Maine was “farm-to-table” before it became cool). Laid-back Bangor is located about an hour from Acadia National Park and less than two hours from Moosehead Lake and Katahdin Woods. Bangor is especially popular with fans of longtime resident Stephen King. Rockland is the MidCoast hub where Maine’s biggest lobster festival is held, windjammers catch the breeze, and three generations of Wyeths rule the art museum .

Southern coast: This stretch of Maine’s coastline is linked by sandy beaches and quintessential New England coastal communities. Browse fish shacks-turned-boutiques in Ogunquit’s Perkins Cove and Kennebunkport’s Dock Square . Meander through the Rachael Carson National Wildlife Refuge   in Wells.

( Discover why so many artists are drawn to Maine .)

MidCoast and islands:   Defined by craggy peninsulas and seaside villages, this south-central section —with its cozy harbors and winking lighthouses—feels familiar thanks to artists like Andrew Wyeth and writers such as E. B. White.

Acadia National Park:   Bold and beautiful, Maine’s headliner deserves its fame, but don’t miss the park’s less-visited Schoodic Section , famed for its pink granite point.

Down East : With no traffic lights, chain hotels, or restaurants, this remote section of the Maine coast from Western Bay to Passamaquoddy Bay is ideal for those seeking solitude.

Maine Highlands:   This outdoor playground , located in the state’s heart, includes Katahdin, Allagash Wilderness Waterway , Moosehead Lake, and the mostly undeveloped North Woods.

Western Lakes and Mountains: Fly-fishers have been casting their lines in the Rangeley Lakes since the late 1800s. In autumn, the 35-mile Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway blazes with color, making it one of the best places for foliage hikes and paddles. Carrabassett Valley   earns raves for mountain biking.

Getting in and around Maine

By plane:   No international flights land in Maine other than private planes, military, and charter flights, and the occasional emergency landing in Bangor.

By bus:   Concord Coach Lines provides daily, almost hourly express connections between Portland, Boston Logan, and Boston’s South Station (where Amtrak’s northeast corridor trains dock), with fewer trips to inland and coastal communities.

By train:   Amtrak’s Downeaster connects Boston’s North Station to Brunswick, with stops in Wells, Old Orchard Beach (summer), Biddeford, Portland, and Freeport.

By car:   Maine’s primary highway is I-95 , which stretches from Kittery to Houlton and doubles as the Maine Turnpike from York to Augusta. Route 1 hugs the coast from Kittery to Calais and then heads north to Fort Kent. Routes 2 , 3 , and 9 are the primary east-west routes.

By boat:   The Cat , a seasonal, high-speed catamaran car ferry, connects Bar Harbor with Yarmouth, Nova Scotia. Casco Bay Lines ferries serve Portland Casco Bay islands. State ferries, mailboats, and seasonal passenger ferries service large coastal islands with year-round populations.

( Here’s why scientists are studying Maine’s coastline .)

In town: Portland and Bangor both have bus systems, and Portland has a bike-share program. Seasonal Island Explorer routes cover most of Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island and the Schoodic Peninsula.

Know before you go

Cultural history: Maine’s Wabanaki , or People of the Dawnland, comprise the Maliseet, Miq’mak, Passamaquoddy, and Penobscot tribes. They trace their Maine history back 12,000 years. European explorers began arriving in the 15th century, and battles over control left a legacy of fortifications.

Hours: Note that outside Greater Portland and in the off seasons, many restaurants shutter by 8 p.m. and often earlier, so plan accordingly.

Wildlife awareness: When driving in rural and undeveloped areas, keep an eye out for moose and deer, especially inland at dawn and dusk.

LGBTQ+: Maine ranked eighth in a 2020 24/7 Wall St. report of the most LGBTQ+-friendly states in the U.S. Maine also ranks high for overall LGBTQ+ protections on Movement Advancement Project’s state profiles . Equality Maine offers a list of gay-friendly businesses that you can support.

How to visit Maine sustainably

Outdoors: Help preserve habitats by staying on the main trail, road, or marked spurs. Consider joining a guided tour led by a Registered Maine Guide to reduce your impact.

Avoid spreading invasives by using only downed or locally sourced wood in fires and ensuring boat propellers are clean before launching. When visiting Acadia, use the Island Explorer shuttle to help reduce emissions.

Shopping: Look for Maine Made products at shops, farm stands, craft shows, and farmers’ markets. You can also search for products and specific stores by region on this site .

Dining: The Gulf of Maine Research Institute is one source that lists coastal restaurants that have committed to serving only responsibly harvested seafood.

What to read  

Barkskins , by Annie Proulx. The Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist dives into the rough and rugged history of Maine over three centuries through the eyes of immigrants, lumberjacks, Indigenous people, and conservationists.

Blueberries for Sal ,   by Robert McCloskey. In this 1948 children’s picture book, a curious toddler and her mother encounter a mama bear and her cub while out hunting for Maine blueberries.

We Took to the Woods , by Louise Dickenson Rich. Published in 1942, Rich’s humorous memoir recounts her time raising a family in the rustic outdoors of Maine.

( For more tips on what to do in Maine, see our Explorer’s Guide .)

Related Topics

• CULTURAL TOURISM
• SUSTAINABLE TOURISM
• FOOD TOURISM
• CITY GUIDES

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62 Top Things to Do in Maine: Bucket List + Places to Visit 2024

• Latest Posts

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Ah, Maine. Definitely an amazing destination, and in the whole of New England, it remains my second favorite state. (I’m a proud Vermonter!)

If you’re looking for what to do in Maine, you will find that there is no end to the activities, sites, and visual delights of this state. You’re in for fun from north to south and east to west, all across the 35, 285 square miles of Maine.

Yes, Maine is a nature lovers paradise, but there’s truly something for everyone in Vacationland, indoors and out!

As you put together your Maine bucket list, let this Maine travel guide help to inspire you. I’ve collected a list of the best things to do in Maine: the essential Maine things to do that a visitor to the Pine Tree State should not miss, plus the best places in Maine to go.

Table of Contents

When is the best time to visit Maine?

The best time to visit Maine is the summer months, between late June and early August! Truthfully, the weather during the  summer in Maine  just can’t be beaten.

However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t visit any other time! I always have a good time in Maine whenever I visit, and recently enjoyed a winter trip to Kennebunkport. I just love Maine, period.

Plus, if you plan your trip to Maine in advance, you can definitely save some money versus booking last minute for accommodations.

In addition to the weather, summer is the best time to visit Maine because Maine’s state parks – like  Acadia National Park  – have lots of activities like  hiking  which are best enjoyed with warm weather. Because Maine is coastal, there tends to be a great breeze!

As far as temperatures go, expect it to be around 70°F most days. It can get as high as 100°F in the middle of July, so definitely prepare yourself for some warmer weather. Don’t worry, though: there’s always a lake or beach nearby where you can visit to cool off pretty quickly.

Best Things to Do in Maine: Bucket List Essentials

1. go lighthouse hopping.

Maine and lighthouses go together like peanut butter and jelly: they are made for one another!

When you picture Maine, it is no doubt its rocky, spectacular coast that comes to mind.

And with 3,478 miles worth of coastline (more than California, in fact) there’s a lot of coast to explore, and lighthouses are typically the best Maine coast attractions, hands down!

You’ll find 65 lighthouses on your things to do in coastal Maine list. While some are open to the public, others can only be viewed from the outside, or sometimes only from on the water itself.

Some of my favorites include Nubble Lighthouse and the iconic Portland Head Light.

Be sure to add a visit to a few of Maine’s most beautiful lighthouses to your travel itinerary, including these lighthouses near Portland .

2. Sip beer in Portland

New England is a haven for craft beer fans. And it turns out, a great many of these breweries are in Maine, particularly in the Portland area. Don’t miss visiting and drinking at the top breweries in Portland, but also don’t be afraid to venture further afield to find some incredibly unique breweries., (like Funky Bow Brewery in Lyman).

If you’re looking for Portland Maine indoor activities, sampling the flavors of the state is always a good time! You can even book a brewery tour like this First Round Draft Brewery Bus Tour if you want.

3. Join an American Ghost Walks Tour

Want to learn about Maine through the eyes of locals? American Ghost Walks are the biggest Maine ghost tour providers, and they have many rave reviews from past guests.

The company specializes in haunted history tours in Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor , Camden, and Kennebunkport and offer a great way to learn more Maine haunted history and be guided through some of the top tourist attractions Maine has to offer.

4. See Stephen King’s Maine

There’s another thing Maine is well known for, and that’s for being the home of famed horror writer Stephen King. Not only does King reside here, but he has set a huge number of his books in Maine or New England.

King fans will LOVE a visit to Maine, particularly to Bangor , where King’s home is and which is associated with his fictional town of Derry.

Take a Stephen King tour for the real deal experience, or create a DIY tour of Stephen King’s Maine.

5. Experience Christmas Prelude in Kennebunkport

My family and I recently had the pleasure of visiting Kennebunkport at Christmas time, and it was wonderful! Their annual Christmas Prelude event is in its 43rd year in 2023, and it’s a beautiful coastal Maine Christmas tradition.

Here I am with my son on a Christmas Prelude Trolley Ride. It was a hit with us all!

6. Shop at the LL Bean

Want to dress like a true Mainah’? You’ll need some gear from L.L.Bean. With its cozy flannel, excellent quality boots, and so much more, L.L.Bean is a staple in New England clothing and goods.

If you’re making a bucket list Maine things to do agenda, you’ve got to include visiting their flagship store located in Freeport (where there are lots of other fun outlet stoes as well) and check out at the famous giant Bean Boot. This one definitely qualifies as one of the more unusual things to do in Maine!

Visiting Maine at Christmas ? There’s a great celebration here at the L.L.Bean store, among many others!

7. Attend the Damariscotta Pumpkin Fest

Do you enjoy big gourds? This is the event for you, my friend.

Fall in Maine is incomplete without a visit to the Damariscotta Pumpkin Fest , an annual tradition that hosts many events, the most popular of which is the Pumpkinboat Regatta. This is one of the unique things to do Damariscotta Maine is known for.

The flagstone event sees competitors paddle or pilot from inside 400-700 pound, hollowed-out pumpkins in the Damariscotta Harbor, and this is definitely one of the best things to do in Maine in October!

8. Drive State Route 27

A Maine road trip is never a bad idea, especially if you build your itinerary around some of Maine’s top destinations. A scenic drive in Maine might even be one of the top 5 things to do in Maine, especially when the fall colors are blazing on a scenic road like Route 27, also known as Maine High Peaks Scenic Byway.

This route starts off in the picturesque town of Kingfield and follows the Carrabassett River, offering impressive views of Mount Abraham and the Bigelow Range. As you head north, Route 27 will also take you through Cathedral Pines, which is the largest stand of old growth forest in the state.

9. Hop aboard a historic schooner cruise

One of the best things I’ve ever done in Maine is to go sailing on a historic schooner. I’ve taken a Maine Windjammer cruise twice, sailing on the J&E Riggin for several nights. What an incredible adventure!

The experience of riding aboard a classic sailing vessel (and the opportunity to help with the sailing itself) is unforgettable. And the views of the Maine coast: well, it’s certainly something special; if you’re looking for unique outdoor adventures in Maine, definitely consider a Maine Windjammer cruise.

Whether you go for a brief cruise or an overnight trip, I highly recommend getting out on the water on your visit to Maine. Here’s a day sail option to consider!

10. Go whale watching

Whale watching is another popular Maine activity. Whale watching season in Maine runs from mid-April through October, as the whales make their way into these waters.

Seeing them in the ocean is awe-inspiring, and there may be no better Maine summer activity for those who love wildlife. If you’re visiting Maine in September, it’s an especially good time of year to head out on a whale watching tour.

11. Visit Maine’s ghost town

If the creepy and unusual appeals to you, you will want to pay a visit to Maine’s ghost town: Perkins Township, or Swan Island.

This town set on an island in the Kennebec River, has been abandoned since the 1940s. A few houses still stand on the island. The island is only open to visitors in the summer, and can only be accessed by boat, but it is a fascinating spot for the curious and anyone looking for somewhat obscure and weird things to do in Maine!

12. Pick blueberries and enjoy blueberry desserts

Maine in summer is synonymous with blueberry picking! If you are here during blueberry picking season, make your way to a farm and gather some of your own dark blue delights, This is also one of those cute date ideas in Maine that make for a very charming outing.

Otherwise, prepare to enjoy blueberry in many different desserts and foods during your visit to Maine. Blueberry pie, blueberry beers, and blueberry jam are just a few of the items you might sample.

13. Ride the Maine Brew Bus

The Maine Brews Cruise is known for its fun and memorable brewery tours in Portland, and there are a few to choose from!

Whichever tour you opt for, there’s no better means to sip your way around Maine.

14. Spot puffins

Oh those adorable puffins! I have yet to see these birds in Maine, but it’s 100% an item on my own personal Maine bucket list.

If you’re looking for cool things to see in Maine, puffins definitely fit the bill. Check out this helpful guide for where to find puffins in Maine !

Read Next: Where to See Puffins in Maine: 5 Best Puffin Tours in Maine

15. Explore Baxter State Park

One of the most beautiful state parks in Maine, Baxter State Park is a definite must visit for those in search of natural attractions and outdoor activities. You’ve got rock climbing, fishing, biking, and of course, sooooo much hiking.

This is, after all, where you can access the mighty Mount Katahdin, the highest mountain in Maine at 5,269 feet.

This is a gorgeous place to explore Maine natural beauty!

16. Go camping or glamping at a spot like Sandy Pines

In New England, going camping is an essential activity and this is especially true in Maine with its glorious scenery and miles and miles of wilderness. This is especially one of the best things to do in Maine in the summer.

You could opt for “roughing it” type camping in many places around the state. But you could also be a bit more comfortable with a campground or even a glampground!

One of our favorite glamping spots is Sandy Pines Campground near Kennebunkport.

This spot offers both traditional camping and glamping options, with a beautiful saltwater pool and plenty to do onsite. We LOVE this place!

Camping and glamping are both some of the most fun things to do in Maine with kids, too. I had a blast taking my son on a great glamping trip recently!

17. Cozy up in a Maine Cabin

Is even glamping too rustic for you? No worries, because Maine also has plenty of cute and cozy cabins that are perfect for anyone looking to get those essential outdoor experiences in Maine without having to rough it too much!

18. Try white-water rafting on the Kennebec River

Tackle some rapids in this outdoor Maine activity: whitewater rafting .

According to tour provider North Country Rivers , “the Kennebec River is not a rocky, technical river. Instead, it’s a very deep, fast mover with big “fun” wave trains. This is why it’s the ideal rafting trip for beginners, youth groups, families, and experienced rafters alike.”

Sounds awesome, right? There are many outdoor adventures in Maine to choose from, but I always consider whitewater rafting to be up at the very tippy top of that list!

Not interested in being on the water? Go for a walk or ride on the Kennebec Rail Trail that starts in Augusta, instead.

19. Visit Victoria Mansion

This beautifully preserved mansion is a National Historic Landmark and I loved getting a peek during my last trip to Portland, Maine.

Over 90% of the original architectural details remain at Victoria Mansion . It’s a very cool way to get a glimpse of the intricate detail and workmanship of the past.

20. Take a floatplane ride over Moosehead Lake

If you’re looking for Maine things to do that give you a birds eye view of Maine’s natural beauty, consider a seaplane ride.

Several companies offer floatplane and Maine seaplane scenic tours over beautiful Moosehead Lake in Greenville , ME. This is one of the most beautiful places in the Pine Tree State and would definitely be an item to cross off your Maine bucket list.

As for where to stay in Greenville, the Lodge at Moosehead Lake is absolutely gorgeous.

Click Here to Check Prices & Book!

21. Get lost in the Maine woods

Maine has a heckuva lot of woods. If wilderness appeals to you, you will absolutely love Maine’s abundance of it, because there are plenty of things to do outside in Maine. And if you’re not keen on the woods, no problem. As you can see from this list, there are an endless number of fun things to do in Maine for all visitors.

The Maine woods is a great place to explore: from camping, to hiking, to hunting. The woodsiest woods of Maine can be found here .

22. Hike Mt. Katahdin

Mt. Katahdin is Maine’s highest mountain, so tackling it is a worthwhile endeavor. No matter which trail you choose, it’s estimated to take between 8 and 12 hours to summit this 5269-foot peak.

If you’re looking for something a little less challenging, take a look at some other options: Best Hikes in Maine to Add to Your Bucket List . Even if you just drive to see Mt Katahdin, it’s one of those cool Maine points of interest that is definitely worth taking a look at!

23. Devour a whoopie pie

It wouldn’t be a Maine vacation without eating one of the state’s best culinary delights : the whoopie pie.

These cake-like desserts are big, roughly the size of a hamburger, and they sort of resemble one too. Two chocolate buns sandwich fluffy white cream between them. The result is a delicious treat that Maine is famous for. Don’t leave without having one!

What do you do in Maine? Make whoopie, er, I mean devour a whoopie pie!

24. Visit Monhegan Island

Accessible via ferry rides from Boothbay, New Harbor, and Port Clyde, Monhegan Island is one of those Maine islands that is a definite bucket list experience.

You can walk the trails at Lobster Point, enjoy some craft brew at Monhegan Brewing Company, and enjoy some of the incredible fresh caught seafood available at local staples like the Monhegan Fish House!

25. Attend a lobster/clam bake

Another must-try food while in Maine is, of course, seafood! Now, you can eat it in a variety of ways: at a restaurant, from a casual fish shack served in a lobster roll, and more, but the ideal way to experience Maine seafood is with an authentic lobster or clam bake.

Reserve your spot at this Cabbage Island Clambake for summer!

26. Go kayaking

With all of its spectacular coastline and its array of lakes, Maine is keen for kayaking. If you’re looking for what to do and see in Maine, rent a vessel at any number of coastal spots, or hop on a guided sea kayak tour. You won’t be disappointed.

27. Enjoy autumn magic

Fall in Maine is, in a word, spectacular! Expect peak foliage typically in late September or early October, so if you’re planning a trip and looking for what to do in Maine in September, the answer to that would be just look around!

There are fantastic fall festivals, tons of fun fall activities like corn mazes and spooky haunted houses, and the color show Mother Nature puts on is absolutely stunning.

28. Get in touch with nature in Deboullie Public Lands

Way up north in Maine (300 miles from Portland, in fact) is almost 29,000 acres of remote wilderness known as Deboullie Public Lands .

If you’re a true adventurer looking for activities in Maine that are unique, you will want to spend some time in this backcountry region, where you can truly get away from it all.

29. Play at Palace Playland

Palace Playland is the last beachfront amusement park in New England, and its location in Old Orchard Beach is fantastic for anyone looking for fun things to do in Maine.

Play in the arcade, ride the rides, then head to the gorgeous 7-mile stretch of beach before checking out the shopping, dining, and fantastic views on the pier. Old Orchard Beach is always a fun place to visit!

30. Eat popovers at Jordan Pond House in Acadia National Park

During your visit to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park (sooo gorgeous and  worth several days of adventuring ) you simply must stop at  Jordan Pond House .

They’ve been making popovers here since the 1800s. You cannot miss them.

During a recent visit to Acadia , we arrived at Jordan’s at 11am to find a massive line already formed. Despite that, we got into the restaurant fairly quickly, and then dined on 4 glorious popovers.

These puffy, light pastries are beyond description. Best with butter and jam, they are similar to British Yorkshire puddings.

31. Enjoy the beaches

Maine may be known for its rocky coast, but tucked between these swaths of stone, there are many sandy beaches that are great for sunbathing, swimming, and more.

Beaches are some of the most fun places to go in Maine, and any summer in ME would be incomplete without spending some time on a beach.

32. See a moose

You’ll be seeing plenty of moose crossing signs in Maine, but what about the moose themselves?

If you’re lucky, you may see some in remote spots in the early morning or dusk hours, but if you want a (possible) guaranteed sighting, you should consider going on a moose tour!

Located in the mountains of Western Maine, Rangeley is one of the best places to see moose in Maine. One of several small towns nestled in the Rangeley Lakes Region, this popular Maine vacation destination is the perfect retreat into the wilderness of Maine. 

33. Visit the Farnsworth Art Museum

If you find yourself in the town of Rockland , stop by the Farnsworth Art Museum , which highlights and celebrates Maine’s role in American art.

There are over 15,000 works in the museum’s collection, including works by Andrew, N.C., and Jamie Wyeth. This is a good one if you’re looking for indoor activities in Maine!

34. Hike the end of the Appalachian Trail

You likely know that the Appalachian Trail in the United States begins in Georgia and ends in Maine. The AT terminates on the peak of Mt. Katahdin, in fact, so if you’re tackling that mountain, you’ll be experiencing the end of the Appalachian Trail.

Of course, nothing compares to the thrill of hiking the entire Appalachian Trail.

35. Go apple picking

When fall is in the air, one of the best things to do in Maine for families (especially for families with kids) is to head to an orchard and pick your own apples.

September and early October are the prime months for doing this, and Maine is dotted with dozens of orchards offering DIY apple picking.

Need some guidance on where to find that appley goodness? Peep my top picks for apple picking in Maine.

36. Attend the lobster fest

Lobster lobster lobster! Yes, Maine is well-known for its lobster, and so it’s totally natural that there would be a festival held to celebrate this glorious crustacean!

The Maine Lobster Festival has been around for a loooong time. Visitors flock from all around for the festival, which includes entertainment, rides, beer, arts and crafts, cooking competitions, parades, and of course, lots and lots of lobster.

Want to learn more? Check out the festival’s official website.

37. Tour the Wadsworth-Longfellow House

In Portland, you will find the Wadsworth-Longfellow House in which Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, American poet and abolitionist, grew up. This historic house is interesting not just because of its former residents, but also because of its architectural and historical value.

A well-preserved 1780s home museum, nearly all of the household items and artifacts inside are original to the Wadsworth and Longfellow families; this is a good one to remember if you’re looking for Portland Maine indoor activities!

38. See the sunrise from Cadillac Mountain

When the sun rises each day in the east, one of the first places you can see it in the entire United States is atop Acadia National Park’s Cadillac Mountain. This is a wonderful way to greet the day, and also a transcendent natural experience on Mount Desert Island.

You’ll likely be joined by several other early risers at the top of the mountain (you can drive up) so plan to get there early to stake out a prime sunrise watching spot. This could be a romantic idea for things for couples to do in Maine.

Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park is one of those hiking trails that should be on every Acadia visitors must visit list.

PS: Bring a blanket. This is Maine, after all.

39. Indulge in luxury at Cliff House

This is a good one especially if you’re looking for romantic things to do in Maine, because what could be more romantic than Cliff House ?

This gorgeous hotel is one of the best hotels in New England, and with onsite gourmet dining, a full service spa, and spectacularly dramatic views visible from all around the hotel, including the pool, it’s the kind of place you go to when you can splurge!

40. See the sunset at Bass Harbor Head Light

Not so much of a morning person? You might be more interested in spotting a fantastic Maine sunset, instead. And if you’re on Mt. Desert Island (where Acadia is located) you can’t do better than watching the sun set behind a famous Maine lighthouse.

Bass Harbor Head Light is an iconic Maine vision, set atop rocky cliffs. With the sunlight fading in the background, this is a photographer’s dream spot.

Again, plan to come early if you want to have the best possible view. It can get pretty crowded!

41. Catch a show Ogunquit Playhouse

Known for fantastic theatrical productions, the Ogunquit Playhouse is a summer regional theatre with a historic past.

According to Wikipedia, the playhouse “is one of the last remaining summer theatres from the Straw Hat Circuit, also referred to as Summer Stock, still producing live musical theatre. The theatre is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.”

PS, this is also allegedly one of the most haunted places in Maine!

Read More :  13 Best Things to Do in Ogunquit Maine

42. Get your learning on at the Maine Maritime Museum

Seafaring is a huge part of Maine’s past. What better place to learn about it than here, at the Maine Maritime Museum ?

The museum is one of the top things to do in Bath ME and has a “20-acre waterfront campus includes indoor galleries, the country’s only surviving historic wooden shipyard, a working boat shop, a newly restored 1906 schooner, and more!”

43. Tiptoe over the Wiggly Bridge

Take a (quick) walk over the world’s tiniest suspension bridge! The Wiggly Bridge is found off of Route 103 in York, Maine, where it separates the Barrell Mill Pond from the York River.

The 75-ft long bridge is cute but this is probably one of the more unusual things to do in Maine. As a bonus, go sip samples of Maine spirits afterward at the nearby Wiggly Bridge Distillery .

44. Take a selfie with the Paul Bunyan statue

This absolute giant is up in Bangor, Maine standing 31-feet tall. Paul Bunyan was born in Bangor in 1834, but checking out this massive statue is still en vogue and one of the top things to do with kids in Maine!

45. Visit the Arctic Museum

Do you have an interest in arctic exploration? You may wish to explore the  Peary-Macmillan Arctic Museum located on the campus of Bowdoin College and one of the top things to do in Brunswick Maine .

46. Sample lobster ice cream

If your tastebuds are up for the challenge and looking for weird things to do in Maine ….you can indeed enjoy lobster ice cream in Maine .

47. Try to grab a reservation at this extremely in-demand Maine restaurant

Think it’s tough to get a dinner reservation in the big city? This rural Maine restaurant routinely sells out for months within hours.

It’s a hidden spot with a dining experience unlike any other. Will you make it there this year?

48. Stay overnight in an awesome treehouse

Need we say more? You can find a few cool options on our list of the best Airbnbs in Maine .

49. Check out a possibly haunted lighthouse

It should come as no shock that New England is rife with haunted spots . So much history!

Maine is no stranger to weirdness (in no small part thanks to Stephen King) so if you’re in Vacationland and looking to get spooked, consider seeking out a haunted spot. Some options in Maine include Boon Island Lighthouse. 

50. Visit the Portland Museum of Art

Located in the Arts District of Portland, the Portland Museum of Art is is one of the most popular art museums in Maine.

51. Stroll downtown Kennebunkport

You can’t go wrong exploring Maine’s charming towns . Kennebunkport is one such place that just SCREAMS coastal Maine. You’ve got remarkable restaurants, attractions like the Seashore Trolley Museum , and so much more!

Go check it out and see for yourself all the cool things to do Maine coast style.

PS: While you’re there don’t miss all these other great things to do in Kennebunkport.

52. Praise the Lord for the Holy Donut

These Portland handmade donuts are made with potatoes, which allegedly makes the Holy Donut just a bit healthier than your average donut, but no less delicious!

I love this place!

53. Ferry to the Casco Islands

When visiting Portland, don’t miss the nearby islands. Accessible via ferry, the 8 Casco Islands each offer something distinct, and make for great day trips from Portland. The year-round Casco Bay Lines will get you there.

Do you have an interest in the paranormal? Then head to the southeastern side of Peaks Island to the Battery Steele Military Reserve.

Better bring a friend (and your courage) because people have reported some pretty intense paranormal activity while inside the tunnels.

54. Stand at the easternmost point in the USA

West Quoddy Head is the easternmost point of the contiguous United States, making Quoddy Head Light the easternmost beacon! It’s fun to visit just to say you’ve been there, but it’s also a lovely spot and an iconic lighthouse.

In fact, it’s one of just two red-and-white-banded lighthouses still standing in the US, but definitely one of the most interesting Maine points of interest, and is located in the darling town of Lubec .

55. Wander through the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

For those who enjoy the beauty of nature, a visit to local botanical gardens is always a treat. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are no exception.

Spanning 295 acres in Boothbay , this is the largest botanical garden in all of New England. It’s especially popular due to its dramatic landscape.

In the winter, don’t miss Gardens Aglow, a holiday event that sees the gardens illuminated with thousands of Christmas lights.

56. See Maine’s movie star beach

Popham Beach is really nothing more than a beautiful Maine stretch of sand, but it’s become a bit more famous since it has appeared in films .

Most notably, 1999’s Message in a Bottle had a lot of its filming here; this is an easy one to add to your Maine summer vacation!

57. Explore Portland’s Old Port

There are a great many things to do in Portland, Maine’s biggest city. But what visitors definitely will want to make time for is the Old Port. This area of town is super charming, with its cobblestone streets, array of unique shops, and collection of delicious restaurants.

Check out my ready made weekend itinerary for Portland here.

58. Explore Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park

Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park in Freeport is situated on 244 acres, offering access to both the Harraseeket River and Casco Bay.

Popular hiking trails include the 2-mile Harraseeket and White Pines Trail Loop and the Old Woods Road, Harraseeket and White Pines Trail Loop. These are fantastic ways to get out and explore the rugged beauty of the Pine Tree State.

59. Walk Marginal Way

One of the most beautiful coastal cliff walks in Maine, Marginal Way takes less than an hour to walk and it is oh, so worth it for those beautiful Ogunquit seaside views! Ogunquit is said to mean, “Beautiful Place by the Sea,” this walk will help show you why.

60. Go skiing

A classic New England pastime in the snowy months, skiing is great in Maine.

Not so into skiing? There are many other winter activities, like snow tubing and cross country skiing, but even simply playing in the snow is always a great way to spend a snowy day.

Bethel is a cute town that’s just up the road from Sunday River Ski Resort . Nestled in at the edge of the White Mountain National Forest, this is a great place to stay during your Maine skication!

61. Shop at Stonewall Kitchen

Do you like delicious samples? Adorable and high-quality kitchenware? You will fall head over heels for Stonewall Kitchen , a well-known producer of gourmet food products. (You may have had one of their Blueberry Jams!)

In York, Maine, you will find the store itself, with thousands of square feet of delights. Grab a meal at their onsite cafe or just shop for awhile. They have so many New England-inspired goods, you won’t be leaving empty-handed.

62. Visit Maine’s Capital

Have you been to the capital city of Maine yet? If not, add it to your list of Maine places to visit! Augusta is a town full of history, culture, and fun indoor and outdoor recreation.

Catch a show at the historic Colonial Theater , then stroll Capitol Park and admire views of the Maine State Capitol Building. Then it’s on to the Old Post Office!

Yes, that’s right… the Old Post Office. One of the last remaining Romanesque Revival style buildings in the state, it looks more like a castle than a post office!

Augusta is also home to Fort Western, the oldest wooden fort in the US and a National Historic Landmark. It’s one of the best places to visit in Maine on a family trip!

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in Maine + Bucket List Ideas

There is so much to do and see in the Pine Tree State, it can feel daunting trying to fit it all in. I myself am still chipping away at my own personal bucket list for Maine!

That’s okay, start working on yours today and keep making plans to return… it is Vacationland, after all!

Read these next:

• 10 Coastal Towns in Maine That are Hidden Gems
• 12 Awesome Antique Stores in Maine: Antiquing ME
• 7 Splendid Castles in Maine
• 6 Romantic Getaways in Maine You’ll Want to Book ASAP

Where should you travel next? Take the free quiz!

Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Maine

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read  full disclosure  for more information.

Sprawling forests, endless seafood… everybody knows vacationing in Maine! But what you don’t know is some of the intricacies, like what really makes Maine such an oasis of good times and good vibes. However, it can be hard to decide what the best places to visit in Maine are when you’re visiting!

The truth is that no two cities are the same! No beach identical to another, no restaurant. And with so much to enjoy, you’re going to need the highlights! Luckily this post was put together for travelers like you, so you can have the best trip possible.

Here are the best places to visit in Maine!

Table of Contents

Best Places to Visit in Maine

Acadia national park & bar harbor.

It’s just not a trip to Maine without a hike! Preferably one with a coastal view! Acadia National Park is 47,000 acres of granite rock formations, luscious green forests, and the gentle green-blue lapping of waves on a scenic shore. Hike, bike, stroll to the edge, and get some views seldom seen elsewhere.

Once you get here, you won’t want to leave, not even for the night! This is why Acadia also offers overnight camping! Don’t just vacation away; vacation unplugged, and let the soothing sounds of nature balance you!

And for those whose weekend breaks usually include a lot more bathing suits and sunscreen: Bar Harbor is the place to be! This is the sun, sand, and fun! Bar Harbor is famous for being an absolute boating haven in the North.

It’s resting pretty on Mount Desert Island, just alongside Maine’s Frenchman Bay. It’s here where Sand Beach, the crown jewel of Bar Harbor, can be found. This is a sandy paradise where the gentle slopes of mountains nestle you into the best beach day yet!

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Nestled on the coast of Maine is one of the top vacation destinations: Portland! But the one on the East coast! Portland, Maine, is a vivid, lively, and eccentric town bustling with seaside activity. It’s one of the must-visit coastal places to visit in Maine .

There are little local shops to dish out all the best in souvenirs and restaurants lining the animated streets. It is also a prominent hotspot for any and all history buffs! The West End is known mostly for its length of Victorian-era homes, all of which come with charming personalities and plenty of backstories.

If you’re here for a little northeastern education and fun, be sure to check out the Victoria Mansion museum while you’re there! Give history a new breath of life! 

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming seaside village in the south of Maine that’s popularly known for being one of the best day trips from Boston . It’s got long, winding beaches where travelers can find their own little slice of paradise. While Kennebunkport is far from being ‘hidden,’ it is most definitely a gem!

This is one of the best places in Maine to find a peaceful kind of beach day. Try Goose Rocks Beach or Arundel Beach to go where the current takes you!

And to truly experience Kennebunkport, a stop at the 1833 Goat Island Lighthouse is a necessity! Sitting proudly atop the rocky shores of Maine, this lighthouse has literally been a beacon to travelers for hundreds of years!

White Mountain National Forest

800,000 acres and counting! That means your entire trip can be made with a new trail explored every day. Lace-up those hiking boots and embrace the call of the wild!

The White Mountain National Forest is home to numerous animals, so be sure to bring binoculars and arrive early! Here you can find deer, eagles, falcons, lynxes, otters, bobcats, foxes, and so many more!

And if you really want to see all that the White Mountain National Forest has to offer, check out the campsite! Stay for a night, stay for the whole weekend… whatever you do, you’ll have the time of your life! It truly is one of the best places to visit in Maine.

For a hometown vibe, check out Ogunquit! This is a great place just to sit back and relax with all the small-town love needed to unwind.

Go museum perusing, enjoying American Art with a stunning backdrop of the Maine coastline. Or take a more hands-on approach, and rent a boat or book a trip to Perkins Cove.

What is great about Ogunquit is it is the perfect place to stroll! Plenty of artisanal eateries and unique shops around every corner.

And, of course, the best place to stroll: is Ogunquit Beach. Throw down a towel or bring out the volleyball; this is fun for the whole family!

Bangor, Maine, is known for many things. Casinos, museums, and some of the top historical sites! For example, The Stephen King House!

Found only in this little slice of heaven, fans from all across the world flock to see the secrets in the walls. This best-selling author found inspiration in this charming small Maine town , and you can too!

There is a muse everywhere, especially in a place as inspirational as this. Check out some of the bookstores in the area, go for a steaming cup of coffee, or simply enjoy the scenery! Bangor is all that you make of it. This is one of the best places in Maine you won’t want to miss out on.

If you want to go where the reviews are, York is the place for you! This town is famous for the highest luxurious stays in the best parts of Maine. There are long stretches of summer resort homes to be found in York for the weekend or much longer!

Memorial Day weekend, Fourth of July… every holiday worth sitting under the sun for is done best in York! There are four primary beaches in the area where locals, renters, and everyone in between can gather. The grass is definitely greener in York: with three state-of-the-art golf courses.

But if you want a little thrill with your R&R, check out some of York’s premier attractions! Such as the Nubble Lighthouse, a popular fishing spot with an absolutely gorgeous backdrop. Be sure to come here around sunset for a truly jaw-dropping picture.

Or take the family to the zoo! There are amusement rides, scheduled shows, and all the cutest critters in the area! And last but certainly not least is the famed Long Sands Beach. Everybody loves York!

Cape Elizabeth

For a trip packed with nonstop fun, check out Cape Elizabeth! This is one of the most beautiful places in the USA to enjoy yourself while embracing all the charms of an authentic Maine town.  

Cape Elizabeth is actually considered a part of the Portland metropolitan area, meaning it is well within a drive to Portland. This is the perfect town to experience if your idea of an ideal vacation is one day spent in the city and rests in the calm.

Here you can enjoy Crescent Beach State Park, Casco Bay, Fort Williams Park, and so much more! Cape Elizabeth is the perfect place to bring your partner, friends, family, and everyone in between! It’s a charming little seaside town with all the comforts of a small town and all the thrill of a big city right next door.

Don’t forget to also stop by Beckett’s Castle, one of the best castles in Maine!

And not to mention: that view! Looking over the rocks as the vivid blue waves crash on them, with a lighthouse beaming in the distance. Truly, there is nothing quite like Cape Elizabeth!

As the capital of Maine, Augusta is well worth the trip! Augusta is primarily known for its unique and flattering aesthetic. A mix of old-world America and modernity.

Augusta is settled by the Kennebec River, with Old Fort Western on the banks. This is an 18 th -century fort, beautifully preserved by the city and kept beautiful and alive. And that’s just the beginning of Augusta’s history!

There is so much to explore that even the museum can’t hold it all! The Maine State Museum is a bountiful explosion of knowledge and fun, tracing all of Maine’s history. But there’s always more to tell. Augusta is history in the making itself! If you’re a fan of history, this is one of the best places in Maine for you to visit.

Take your beachside paradise with a splash of history! Camden is a thriving city with so much to do in the realm of exploration. Maine is an incredibly beautiful state and features a wide number of hiking trails.

Camden is no exception and includes some of the greats like the Camden Hills State Park or Camden Harbor. But if your interests lie more in those who have walked in the city before , check out some of the historical landmarks this city is known for!

No trip is complete without looking at the 1830s lighthouse that sits right on the stunning East Coast shoreline. There are also numerous 19 th century home tours and activities to be found all around!

Final Thoughts: Best Places to Visit in Maine

Stretching from all along the coast, Maine is a state filled with choices! Go for the bustling city center, or the quiet, serene small town. There are so many things to explore here in Maine that you might just need another go-around. Making Maine is the perfect state for your next family vacation!

This amazing post was written by Nikki from Attractions of America . Be sure to follow along with Nikki’s journies on Pinterest , Facebook , and Twitter !

Visit Maine

Are you planning a trip to Maine? I have a few great Maine posts to help you out. Check them out below!

• Ultimate Coastal Maine Road Trip Itinerary

Volumes & Voyages occasionally hosts posts from guest authors who are experts on their topic.

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The Most Beautiful Places in Maine

Yankee’s long-time Editor, Mel Allen, shares his picks for some of the most beautiful places in Maine — from Ogunquit Beach to Acadia National Park.

By Mel Allen

Jun 13 2022

Not long ago, a reader wrote to me, “Where are the most beautiful places in Maine?”

That got me thinking. From the day I first moved to Maine in the winter of 1970, the state has kept a special hold on me. Few places compare to the wild beauty seen along the coast and in the mountains, in its villages and wilderness outposts. It’s never easy, or simple, to take stock and say, “these are the most beautiful places in Maine.” There is a reason that we always counsel that “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.”

For four decades, I have traveled throughout New England as a writer and editor at Yankee, and it seems I always come back from Maine with one more beautiful place to add to my ever-growing list. So, behold. These are my most beautiful places in Maine, which would make them among the most beautiful places in the country. I start with two views that everyone with a camera will want to capture during their travels, and then invite you on my personal memory tour of my most beautiful places in Maine.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

Two lights state park  | cape elizabeth.

The beauty of Two Lights goes beyond the classic setting of the Atlantic Ocean crashing on rocks, spray spewing beneath the blue sky. The 40-plus-acre state park lies only eight miles south of Portland, but it gives a feeling of the wild Maine coast—without the several hours’ drive Downeast. Best of all — and this is why it holds a special, beautiful place for thousands of visitors over the decades — the picnic tables at the Lobster Shack at Two Lights let the salt air wash over you while you savor the lobster that may have enticed you to Maine. Ocean, rocks, lobster in the rough. A beautiful place in any book.

Casco Bay Ferry | Peaks Island into Portland Harbor

From Portland, Peaks Island is the most accessible of the Casco Bay island chain. Just three miles offshore, Peaks is one of the most popular trips from the city. After a day of biking, hiking, strolling, eating, or just sunning on stretches of beach, the night ferry’s return into Portland Harbor, with the lights of the city drawing you closer, is a beautiful cap on an island day.

SEE MORE:  A Visit to Peaks Island, Maine

Sunset at Ogunquit Beach | Ogunquit

The three miles of sand that stretch from Ogunquit’s main beach parking lot and pavilion — with the usual snacks, sundries and shaded benches — to neighboring Wells, has long been my favorite ocean walk. Off-season, jubilant dogs race into the surf (they are supposed to be leashed, but locals tend to feel that, having come through winter, their dogs deserve some freedom) and the beach is wide and smooth. You can lose yourself in thought, listening to surf. But what makes this one of the most beautiful places in Maine for me is the sunset walk, when all is seemingly quiet, evening beckons, and the shifting color on the water holds you in place.

SEE MORE: The 25 Best Beach Towns in New England

Oh My Gosh Corner | Carrabassett

Here is a winter beauty spot not to miss. The drive from Farmington to Sugarloaf Mountain on Route 27 North is about 40 miles. You cut through the forest and pass through the snug village of Kingfield along the Carrabassett River and then, without warning, you navigate a curve and there, spreading across the landscape, is the 4,237-foot summit of Maine’s premier ski mountain, looking as if you could drive right into its heart. The location owes its name to the thousands of people whose breath catches when they turn that corner, prompting them to utter, “Oh my gosh.” The view impresses in all seasons, but the ribbons of snow slicing down Sugarloaf in the winter will stay with you.

Height of Land | Rangeley

This may once have been you. For the first time you are driving for a weekend in Rangeley (pop. 1,122), one of the best winter towns in New England . You are cresting Spruce Mountain on Route 17 and see cars pulled over into a tidy parking area. You join them, look west, and stop cold. What you see spreading before you is one of the most beautiful single sights in Maine. Toothaker Island pokes out of Mooselookmeguntic Lake, and sweeping all around is the merging of water, mountains, forest. It is called “Height of Land,” and it has spoiled many a traveler who will look a long time before finding another such unexpected and dramatic view.

West Quoddy Head Light  | Lubec

Of course, there must be a lighthouse on my most beautiful places in Maine list, and this historic, red-and-white-striped classic in Quoddy Head State Park is worth waking up early for. Stand here, at the easternmost point in the country, and take in the sun rising over the bay. You’ll be one of the first in the country to enjoy the morning sun, and better still, you now have the rest of the day to explore Passamaquoddy Bay, and to cross the bridge to Campobello Park , where FDR spent so many relaxing days

Chimney Pond | Baxter State Park , East Millinocket

Over the years, I have hiked countless trails in Maine, but for the reward of sheer stunning beauty, it is hard to beat coming upon Chimney Pond. The hike from Roaring Brook Campground in the heart of the 209,000-acre-plus Baxter State Park to the mountain pond in the valley of Katahdin’s great basin will take a little over two hours. Plan for a few additional hours if your goal is the summit of Maine’s highest peak. Or, as so many do, take off the backpack, stretch out by the water, and enjoy a picnic, knowing your feet have brought you to one of the most beautiful places in Maine.

Windjammer Cruise on Penobscot Bay | Rockland and Camden

I once spent four days on a windjammer, and ever since, Penobscot Bay has a place on my most beautiful places in Maine list. Taken in from a sailboat, few waterways inspire more dreamlike awe than this one. Studded with evergreen-lined islands, the bay is home to the largest fleet of historic schooners that have made the name “windjammer” synonymous with beauty and carefree vacations. Whether you take a day sail or a lengthier cruise, the windjammers dock in beautiful island harbors where the only distractions will be ocean, seabirds, and paths leading to sunny seclusion.

SEE MORE: Maine Windjammer | Sailing the Penobscot Bay

Acadia National Park | Mount Desert Island

Where to begin? Where to end. One of America’s most-loved national parks combines enduring natural beauty, adventure (some of the hikes require nerve), a mountain summit road where hundreds gather at dawn to welcome the sunrise, and carriage roads for walkers and bicyclists. And all this just a short drive from the very civilized comforts of Bar Harbor. You’ll have to find your own special spot in the roughly 50,000-acre park. But if you choose Somes Sound, you may find me there beside you.

SEE MORE: Acadia National Park | Things to Do & See

Scenic Floatplane Rides over Moosehead Lake | Greenville

When I first started writing about Maine, it seemed that many of my stories took me to the North Woods. For a number of them, in fact, I needed to climb into the bush planes which for decades have brought sportsmen deep into the wilds. Today, many roads have opened the wilderness, but letting a skilled bush pilot swoop you over the 40-mile-long lake, rimmed by mountains and pines, will be an experience that stays with you forever. You’ll fly over islands, Kineo’s cliffs, and chances are good you’ll see deer and moose clambering through the woods and streams.

What are your picks for the most beautiful places in Maine?

This post was first published in 2017 and has been updated. 

SEE MORE: 10 Prettiest Coastal Towns in Maine 10 Best Lobster Rolls in Maine Best of Maine’s Coastal Route 1 | Editors’ Choice Awards

Mel Allen is the fifth editor of Yankee Magazine since its beginning in 1935. His career at Yankee spans more than three decades, during which he has edited and written for every section of the magazine, including home, food, and travel. In his pursuit of stories, he has raced a sled dog team, crawled into the dens of black bears, fished with the legendary Ted Williams, picked potatoes in Aroostook County, and stood beneath a battleship before it was launched. We think Mel is as New England as they come.

Mel Allen is the fifth editor of Yankee Magazine since its beginning in 1935. His first byline in Yankee appeared in 1977 and he joined the staff in 1979 as a senior editor. Eventually he became executive editor and in the summer of 2006 became editor. During his career he has edited and written for every section of the magazine, including home, food, and travel, while his pursuit of long form story telling has always been vital to his mission as well. He has raced a sled dog team, crawled into the dens of black bears, fished with the legendary Ted Williams, profiled astronaut Alan Shephard, and stood beneath a battleship before it was launched. He also once helped author Stephen King round up his pigs for market, but that story is for another day. Mel taught fourth grade in Maine for three years and believes that his education as a writer began when he had to hold the attention of 29 children through months of Maine winters. He learned you had to grab their attention and hold it. After 12 years teaching magazine writing at the University of Massachusetts-Amherst, he now teaches in the MFA creative nonfiction program at Bay Path University in Longmeadow, Massachusetts. Like all editors, his greatest joy is finding new talent and bringing their work to light.

13 of the Most Amazing and Best Places to Visit in Maine

Posted on Published: 10/02/2023

From the rocky coastline to the numerous beautiful lighthouses, Maine has certainly earned its Vacationland nickname. It’s a beautiful state with lots of different places to visit on vacation – including several gorgeous coastal towns.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us. I’ve received complimentary/discounted admission, hotels, and transportation (on the Amtrak Downeaster) to some of these locations (and have paid for others), but all opinions are my own.

I generally recommend visiting Maine in the summer months of July and August for the warmest weather – it’s the best time if you want to experience outdoor activities. We have also enjoyed trips to Kittery, Portland, and Freeport in the winter when they were less crowded. If you do that, however, you won’t be able to do any water activities.

For most places to visit in Maine, you’ll need to drive. There is the Amtrak Downeaster train as well. It travels from Boston, MA’s North Station to the following station stops:

• Brunswick, ME
• Freeport, ME
• Portland, ME
• Old Orchard, ME
• Haverhill, MA

This is a traditional train, not an auto train, so you won’t have access to your vehicle when you are on vacation. Some places in Maine are very walkable, however, so depending on where you go, you may not need it.

These places can also be great road trips from Boston if you are visiting Massachusetts for summer vacation. While we’d recommend staying overnight, you could always visit some of the more southern locations for just a day trip. You could also visit multiple locations on a road trip.

The Best Places to Visit in Maine

Portland, maine.

Portland Maine is one of my favorite road trips from our home in Massachusetts. This waterfront city (the largest city in Maine) is a big foodie destination, with many delicious restaurants , great breweries, and unique cafes. Go hungry, because there are so many things you’ll want to eat.

The city offers several popular districts, including Old Port along Casco Bay. This picturesque area of the city is where you’ll find many restaurants, as well as where you can take a boat tour in season. Looking to try some of that famous Maine lobster? We recommend the Highroller Lobster Co, a fun, casual restaurant in the center of the city where you can get lobster rolls and other lobster dishes.

There are also several wonderful museums in the city, including the Portland Museum of Art, the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine (which recently moved from the Arts District to Thompson’s Point), and the Tate House Museum.

Like shopping? There are many small gift, book, food clothing, and souvenir shops around town. Portland is a great place to shop for gifts. Visiting in the summer? Don’t miss seeing a Portland Sea Dogs game at Hadlock Field.

If you choose a downtown hotel, you can park at your hotel and just leave your car there most of the time. Portland is very walkable and also has an airport and an Amtrak train station if you’d prefer to travel that way. It’s a little less than a 2-hour drive from downtown Boston.

Here are some of the best places to stay in Portland .

Driving to Portland? Don’t miss a stop at the beautiful Portland Head Lighthouse, which is a great photo opportunity. It’s a popular place, and you’ll often see photos of the lighthouse on guidebooks and postcards.

Kittery, Maine

Located right over the New Hampshire border is Kittery Maine, a coastal town that is most known for its great outlet malls. They are spaced out across several different outlet complexes along Route 1. Outlets include New Balance, Lululemon, Crate and Barrel, and Adidas.

In addition to the outlets, there are some fun shops like Yummies (a store filled with all sorts of candy) and the Kittery Trading Post.

Kittery also offers several restaurants, as well as Fort McClary State Park, Take Flight Adventures, Badger’s Island, and the Isles of Shoals.

Old Orchard Beach, Maine

Love the beach? Travel to Old Orchard Beach, located on the Maine coastline. It is a traditional beach town, offering activities like mini-golf, paddleboarding, boat tours, and more.

It’s also home to Palace Playland, New England’s only amusement park located on the beachfront. It offers an arcade, kiddie rides, and traditional midway rides and is a popular tourist attraction.

The area features several motels, family hotels, and inns, as well as nearby campgrounds. These are mostly independent motels, rather than chain hotels .

Freeport, Maine

Freeport Maine is most popular as the hotel of L.L.Bean. In addition to the flagship store, there is also the L.L. Bean Outlet, the L.L. Bean Home Store, L.L. Bean Bike, Boat, and Ski Store, and the L.L. Bean Hunting and Fishing Store.

But, there are also lots of other outlets beyond L.L. Bean in Freeport. These include Sperry, Vineyard Vines, and Coach. You’ll also find independent shops and small chains, offering toys, bath and body products, art, and gifts. Don’t miss a stop at Wicked Whoppies, where you can purchase Maine’s signature Whoppie Pies.

Other activities in the area include boat cruises along Casco Bay, as well as Wolfe’s Neck Center. This farm offers animals, workshops, bike and kayak rentals, and much more.

Free parking is available through Freeport. There’s also an Amtrak train station.

Boothbay Harbor, Maine

Boothbay Harbor is a popular summer Maine vacation destination. This small town offers small shops with art, pottery, clothing, and more. There are also waterfront local restaurants where you can get Maine lobster and other seafood.

One of the most popular attractions in Boothbay Harbor is the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. It’s open seasonally, and kids will love seeing the huge troll statues located throughout the gardens.

These five trolls, called the Guardians of the Seeds, are made of recycled materials. They are scattered throughout the gardens, and some require a bit of walking to see. You can use the maps provided by the gardens to find them – they are marked on the map with large footprints.

You may also want to take a boat trip in the area. Cap’N’Fish’s Cruises works with the National Audubon to showcase the Audubon’s Puffin Project. During the cruise, you’ll see wildlife, lighthouses, and more – it’s a great excursion for nature lovers.

The Maine State Aquarium is another popular attraction. It’s run by the state but was closed for renovations this past year.

Kennebunkport, Maine

Kennebunk and Kennebunkport Maine have long been popular summer vacation destinations. Here, you can visit beaches and take a boat tour of the area. There’s also Dock Square, offering shops and restaurants, and the Seashore Trolley Museum.

If you are visiting without kids, we definitely recommend staying at the White Barn Inn . This beautiful inn is quaint and cozy, but the real draw here is the amazing restaurant.

Ogunquit, Maine

Ogunquit Maine, a trendy and artsy beach town, is one of my favorite places in Maine to visit. I’d recommend visiting in July and August when the weather is perfect for a day at the sandy beach.

Ogunquit is very walkable, with limited parking. So I recommend staying at a hotel/resort in the downtown area so that you can just leave your car and walk. There’s also a trolley that visits the popular attractions during the summer months.

In addition to visiting Ogunquit Beach, you’ll want to walk along Marginal Way to Perkins Cove, a small waterfront area with gift shops, ice cream shops, and restaurants. Don’t forget to stop and view the beautiful scenes as you walk. I really love taking photos as I walk on Marginal Way.

If you enjoy theater, the nonprofit Ogunquit Playhouse offers shows throughout the season. You can see their upcoming schedule on their website .

During our visit to Ogunquit, we enjoyed staying at the Meadowmere Resort . It’s located in a great spot, and you can walk to Ogunquit Beach, Perkins Cove, and Marginal Way.

Bar Harbor, Maine

Bar Harbor Maine on Mount Desert Island is one of the most popular summer vacation destinations in New England, due to its proximity to Acadia National Park (the main attraction in the area). Like other places to visit in Maine, we recommend visiting in the warmer summer months so that you can take advantage of all of the activities.

There are a variety of different ways to explore the area. Oli’s Trolley offers tours of Cadillac Mountain, Acadia National Park, and downtown Bar Harbor. This guided tour is extremely popular, and we recommend booking your tickets in advance.

There are also Acadian Boat Tours, offering fishing excursions, guided tours, sunset cruises, and more. You can also see nearby lighthouses and puffins, depending on the excursion booked. There are lots of fun things to do near Acadia .

Sebago Lake, Maine

We loved our visit to Migis Lodge located right on Sebago Lake. This family wilderness resort offers traditional lake activities, a kids’ club, delicious food, and beautiful accommodations.

Migis is open in the summer, and it’s very popular. Often guests book for the same week and cabin year after year, so you’ll want to make a reservation as soon as possible if you are interested in attending. It’s an all-inclusive resort (except for alcohol), and once you are there you won’t have to leave.

Other Places to Visit in Maine

In addition to the places we’ve highlighted here, there are other points of interest to visit in Maine. These include:

• Camden Hills State Park (Camden Maine)
• Moosehead Lake and the Kennebec River
• Cape Neddick Lighthouse in York
• Mount Katahdin and Baxter State Park

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15 Best Places to Visit in Maine

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: January 4, 2024

Located at the furthest northeastern point of the country lies the great state of Maine. Known for its pristine wilderness, sleepy harbor towns, and incredible seafood, this state is an incredible destination.

To help you plan your next visit, this list has the 15 best places to visit in Maine . It has everything from major city centers to isolated escapes into the beauty of mother nature (and everything in between). All you have to do is check out the list, fill in your itinerary and you’ll be set for an epic adventure in Maine.

Now, let’s get into details about each one of these places to visit in Maine in spring, summer, and fall .

1.    Acadia National Park

Leading the list of best places to visit in Maine is an absolute fav: Acadia National Park . Positioned along the Atlantic Coast it’s one of the most beautiful places in the country.

You can visit the park any time of year but May through October are just incredible. Acadia has it all from the finest fall foliage to the creme de la creme of blooming springtime.

You’ll love the drive up Cadillac Mountain to experience the views of the water and hiking any of its 150 miles of trails.

Spend some time in Acadia National Park and you’ll see why it’s one of the most beautiful parks on the East Coast .

Hike Ocean Path trail in Acadia for outstanding views of the waves crashing on the rocky shoreline – photo: Susan Moore

2.    Bar Harbor

Next on the list of best places to visit in Maine is Bar Harbor, the gateway to Acadia National Park.

This quaint town has so much to offer. You’ll love watching the boats in Frenchmen Bay, grabbing an ice cream and enjoying the freshest lobster.

Visiting the Great Harbor Maritime Museum is always a good idea.

To experience everything Bar Harbor has to offer it’s best to visit during the peak season, May through October.

Bar Harbor is a favorite East Coast summer vacation spot .

Bar Harbor Maine is a popular vacation spot in New England especially in summer and fall – photo: Depositphotos

3.    Belfast

Belfast has so much history you’ll notice it right away. This quaint harbor town has historical buildings throughout.

Keep an eye out for plaques with historical points of interest. To learn more head to the Belfast Historical Society and Museum .

You’ll love strolling along the Passagassawakeag River on the Belfast Harbor Walk .

If you’re looking for something longer, head to the Belfast Rail Trail .

Kayaking is great out on Knights Pond or in Belfast Bay, which is also great for rowing and sailing.

Read our full travel guide to visiting Belfast Maine

Belfast is a picturesque town in mid-coast Maine – photo: Susan Moore

4.    Portland

Hands-down one of the best places to visit in Maine has to be Portland. It’s one of the top vacation spots in New England .

You’ll love the historical buildings and cobblestone streets in Portland. Don’t miss visiting places like Victorian Mansion and Portland Head Lighthouse .

Check out the waterfront for great views of the harbor, shops, and restaurants. Or get out on the water with a boat tour! And yes, do buy yourself a lobster roll and enjoy the best Maine seafood.

For something fun (especially with the kids) check out Bug Light Park to view the small lighthouse, Portland skyline, harbor, and watch kite flying in the park.

Read more from our list of fun things to do in Portland

Visit Portland Head Lighthouse and walk the coastal trail – photo: Susan Moore

5.    Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a favorite destination especially in the summertime.

This lovely seaside town has so much personality. You’ll love strolling through town checking out all of the unique shops, art galleries, and places to eat.

Special to Kennebunkport, you’ll notice that many of the colorful buildings extend out over the water, giving it a uniquely nautical feel.

It’s easy to enjoy the water in Kennebunkport. Put your toes in the sand at Gooch’s Beach or get out on the water with a SUP or kayak.

Kennebunkport is an ideal weekend getaway in New England .

A beautiful New England coastal town, Kennebunkport Maine is a popular vacation spot – photo: Susan Moore

6.    Camden

Camden is yet another one of Maine’s incredible waterfront communities .

Set in Penobscot Bay, getting out on the water is one of the best things to do.

You’ll fall in love with Camden’s downtown. The shops, antique stores, and places to eat make it easy to stroll any time of day.

If you’re looking to get out into the beauty of the landscape consider a hike in Camden Hills State Park .

The cute town of Camden Maine is at Penobscot Bay in the mid-coast region – photo: Susan Moore

7.    Ogunquit

Known as the “Beautiful Place by the Sea” Ogunquit’s motto is more than just a nice saying.

It’s actually the translation of “Ogunquit” from the Algonquin Indigenous peoples. Today, the town is still living up to its name.

The lovely town has shops and restaurants that will entertain you any afternoon.

But the big draw to Ogunquit is the gorgeous beach .

It’s easy to spend an entire day enjoying the white sand and amazing views of the ocean.

8.    Rockland

Maine has done it again with Rockland. It’s hard to beat such a great little seaside town, that’s why it’s totally one of the best places to visit in Maine.

Known for great lobster fishing, you’re bound to enjoy the freshest seafood at the restaurants in town.

Check out the Farnsworth Art Center to see some of the best art in Maine.

Then head to the Maine Lighthouse Museum to do more than just look at these iconic structures.

For something different walk the Rockland Breakwater (almost 1-mile long) to the Breakwater Lighthouse.

For something different, walk about a mile out on the Rockland breakwater to the lighthouse – photo: Susan Moore

9.    Augusta

The list of the best places to visit in Maine has to include the capital city.

Check out the Maine State House and take a stroll in the beautiful Capital Park.

A super interesting activity is visiting the Old Fort Western .

It’s an 18th century British fort. What makes it special is that it’s the oldest wooden fort in the US.

You’ll love the historic places in Augusta like the Old Post Office and Colburn House .

Take a free guided State House tour in Augusta Maine – photo: Susan Moore

10.    Old Orchard Beach

Even by Maine standards, Old Orchard Beach stands out from the rest. So of course it’s one of the best places to visit in Maine.

With 7 miles of soft sandy beaches , its name is not ploy – it’s definitely a major feature of the town.

When it’s time to hop off the beach to enjoy a meal, drink, or nightlife head up to the Old Orchard Pier.

You’ll have everything there, including a gorgeous view of the water.

Enjoy a beach day (or weekend!) at Old Orchard Beach – photo Depositphotos

11.    Bangor

Bangor is a quintessential town with a lovely downtown and waterfront.

You’ll love strolling the Penobscot River Walkway and hiking the Bangor City Forest .

Bangor also has 2 major claims to fame.

The first is the classic American folklore hero Paul Bunyon.

A gotta-see, the 30+ foot statue of Paul symbolizes Bangor’s role as “Lumber Capital of the World” back in the 1800s.

Bangor is also home to the writer Stephen King , author of The Stand, It, The Shining, and Misery, to name a few of the author’s popular novels.

12.    Mooselookmeguntic Lake

If you’re interested in getting away from the hustle and bustle, escape to Mooselookmeguntic Lake.

Yes, it’s a mouthful (meaning “grazing place for moose”) but you’ll love spending time on the water and in the surrounding woods.

Located in the Rangeley Lakes region, it’s one of the best places to visit in Maine for tranquility.

You’ll love breathing in the fresh air and taking in the view out on the water or the shore.

Spend some time surrounded by beautiful nature at Mooselookmeguntic Lake – photo: Depositphotos

13.    Eastport

If you’re looking to do something cool like stand in the easternmost city in the United States, then you need to head to Eastport.

At the most northeastern tip of the state, you’ll find yourself on the archipelago of Eastport.

With the deepest harbor on the US East Coast there’s lots to see.

Keep an eye out for whales, dolphins, and seals. The extraordinary depth creates a naturally occurring whirlpool, “The Old Sow” to the east of Moose Island .

14.    Baxter State Park

One of the most incredible state parks lies in north central Maine.

With over 200,000 acres of pristine wilderness, it’s seriously one of the best places to visit in Maine if you want to truly experience nature.

200+ miles of hiking trails means there’s plenty to explore in Baxter State Park including over 40 different peaks and tons of lakes and waterfalls .

A main draw is Katahdin, the tallest mountain in Maine .

Take a hike on Chimney Pond Trail at Mount Katahdin, Maine’s tallest peak – photo: Depositphotos

15.    Sebago Lake

A favorite among Mainers, Sebago Lake is a perfect place to enjoy the state’s great natural landscape.

Sebago Lake State Park is a perfect destination if you’re looking for outdoor fun.

Located on the northeastern shore of the lake, you’ll find great beaches, trails, campsites, and boat launches.

Along the lake’s shore are delightful towns like Raymond and Naples where you’ll find lake access and other amenities including kayak rentals.

Final Thoughts on Best Places in Maine

It’s plain to see that Maine has so much to explore with its adorable harbor towns, historical sites, and pristine wilderness. To make sure you don’t miss a thing, this list of the 15 best places to visit in Maine has it all. But if you only have time to visit one area of Maine I highly recommend driving along the coast.

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19 Best Places to Visit in Maine for Food, Foliage and Fun

Kimberly Miles

When it comes to finding a place that is great to visit no matter what time of year, Maine fits the bill. Its white-sand beaches and beautiful coastline make it an ideal place to spend the summer and spring. Its stunning and colorful fall foliage make it a must-visit place to visit in the fall. And with some of the best cross-country skiing and snowmobiling in the state, it is one of the best places to spend the winter.

But that’s not all! When you take into account the fact that Maine is home to some of the best lobster that you’ll ever sink your teeth into, it’s also a foodie paradise! So whether you’re looking for fun, relaxation or simply to experience some of the best lobster chowder in New England, Maine is where you need to be. Here are 19 of the best cities and attractions to explore during your next visit:

Best Cities to Visit in Maine

Located along Casco Bay, Portland is the coastal jewel of southern Maine. Not only is it the largest city in the state, but it is an epic destination and one of the best places to visit in Maine for couples, friends or families.

Portland has tons of fun things to do. You can take a seaside ramble, get out on the Atlantic, step back in history, check out the arts or do some shopping. Visitors will find that Portland is a very walkable city with historic 19th century brick buildings, cobblestone streets, funky boutiques and tempting aromas drifting out of the city’s famous restaurants.

A sightseeing cruise is a fun way to get out and see and learn about the city’s offerings and history from a different perspective.

Located on Maine’s Central Coast alongside Penobscot Bay, Rockland is another classic coastal town in Maine. Known to be one of the largest shipping centers in the world for lobster, it is one of the best places to visit in Maine for those looking to sink their teeth into a mouthwatering lobster roll.

In addition to being a top notch destination for foodies, Rockland has also received praise as a fun and exciting small town to visit. In addition to the beautiful architecture, Rockland’s protected harbor is dotted with hundreds of inlets and coves. Art lovers will find an impressive collection of local pieces in the Farnsworth Art Museum and Wyeth Center. Rockland is also home to the most windjammers in the US and windjammer tours and activities aren’t uncommon to see on the Penobscot Bay.

Located near the southern tip of Maine, York is one of the nation’s oldest cities and a great place to visit for a New England getaway. Home to four sandy beaches and three golf courses, it is one of the best places to visit in Maine for visitors looking for a mix of beaches, fun and history.

Because of its location beside the Atlantic Ocean, York is a popular and well-known summer resort town. In addition to its sandy beaches and 18-hole golf courses, it is also an excellent place to shop and indulge at delicious restaurants. It is also home to the Nubble Lighthouse as well as Mount Agamenticus, a great place for hiking, biking and observing wildlife.

Mount Desert Island

Home to the popular Acadia National Park, Mount Desert Island is one of the best places to visit in Maine for summer vacationers and those looking for a relaxing yet fun-filled getaway.

In addition to Acadia National Park, Mount Desert Island is also home to several small towns, including the thriving summer vacation town of Bar Harbor. Northeast Harbor, Southwest Harbor and Bass Harbor are popular for fine dining, art galleries and boutique shopping. Early risers can trek up Cadillac Mountain to catch the sunrise or visit later to catch a stunning sunset. If driving, enjoy a scenic drive around the historic 27-mile Mount Desert Island park loop road for access to the shoreline and interior forests.

Surrounded by Casco Bay, Freeport is one of the best places to visit in Maine for those looking to do some good bargain shopping. Home to the original L.L. Bean store and numerous other outlet stores, it is known as a shopper’s paradise.

In addition to its shopping reputation, Freeport is also known as “the birthplace of the state of Maine.” It has an active historical society dedicated to the preservation of original schools, homes and churches. There you can spend some time outside the shops, walking around and absorbing the historic character.

Wolfe’s Neck Farm, open daily, has more than 3 miles of hiking trails that are open to the public year-round. Meanwhile, Winslow Memorial Park has wooded trails and a tidal beach, picnic tables and a boat launch where you can use your own kayak or canoe.

Known as the “Queen City of Maine”, Bangor is the retail, cultural and service center for central, eastern and northern Maine. Located on the western bank of the Penobscot River, Bangor was once also known as the “lumber capital of the world.” A huge, towering structure of the folkloric lumberjack Paul Bunyan can be found on Main Street.

Kids will love the Maine Discovery Museum packed with hands-on  nature, science and art exhibits. The University of Maine Museum of Art is home to many modern and contemporary works. Nature lovers will love the Bangor City Forest inhabited by beaver and deer.

Bangor is also an easy drive to some of Maine’s most popular attractions and regions where you can indulge in adventure, cultural experiences and scenery. Its nearby regions are great for whale-watching, fly fishing, hiking, kayaking, biking, festivals, fairs and shopping.

Located on the shores of Rangeley Lake, Rangeley is a charming town and one of the best places to visit in Maine for a tranquil year-round getaway. It is home to six large lakes renowned for fishing, including Mooselookmeguntic Lake, the fourth largest lake in Maine.

During the spring and summer, Rangeley is a popular place for hiking, swimming, fishing, boating and bird watching. The 900-acre Rangeley Lake State Park is a fun place to swim, hike and go camping. Fall in Rangeley is a great time to view Maine’s colorful and stunning foliage, especially from The Height of Land , one of Maine’s most breathtaking vistas. Rangeley is also named one of the best winter towns in New England, offering some of the best cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling in the state.

The Kennebunks

Sometimes referred to as “the Kennebunks,” Kennebunkport and its neighbor Kennebunk are two of Maine’s most popular summer destinations. They are both among the best places to visit in Maine if you want some beach time but also want to be among historic streets, charming inns, shopping and some of the state’s best dining.

Kayaking and paddleboarding in the rivers and sandy beaches as well as deep sea fishing, whale-watching and cruising are some of the popular ways to enjoy the Kennebunks. If you’re into antiques, you’ll find plenty to take home amongst the various boutiques, gift shops and galleries. A guided walking tour of Kennebunkport will take you to and through its quiet neighborhoods while teaching you all about its history as a shipbuilding town. And if you’re visiting in June, you may find fun and enjoyment at the Kennebunkport Festival , the state’s largest food and wine festival.

Kennebunk is also home to Walker’s Point, the summer home of President George H.W. Bush and Barbara Bush. While it is not open to the public, you can briefly drive by for a pick photo op in the designated parking area.

Located in southern Maine, Ogunquit is a thriving fishing village with plenty of fun. Between its sandy beaches, lakes, scenic walks and incredible food, it is one of the best places to visit in Maine for all ages.

Ogunquit is mostly known for the white, sandy beaches of Ogunquit Beach. Although it’s a great way to splash around and cool off during the summer, thefall is also a great time to stroll the beach for miles during low tide. Another favorite among visitors to Ogunquit Beach is to walk along Marginal Way, a picturesque winding trail with incredible ocean views, rocks to climb, benches and a lighthouse.

For those who want more than the beach, a hike to Mount Agamenticus is a great way to take in Ogunquit’s beautiful fall foliage. The Ogunquit Museum of American Art is known for its works by Maine-related artists as well as its waterside sculptures. The Ogunquit Playhouse summer theater is a great place to catch a musical. Have a sweet tooth after gobbling down some delicious Maine lobster? Head no further than Main Street where you’ll find streets lined with candy stores, fudge stores and ice cream shops.

Boothbay Harbor

Famous for its connection to the sea, Boothbay Harbor is one of the best places to visit in Maine for water and boating activities. With its convenient location between most major cities in Maine, it is the ideal place to visit for those looking for a balance between charm and urban life.

Located on its namesake waterfront, Boothbay Harbor is popular for its lobster boat tours as well as activities such as kayaking, sailing and yachting. If you’re looking to catch some views of whales, puffins or seals, Boothbay Harbor is the place to be. The Harbor is also home to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Lincoln Arts Festival, Pythian Opera House and the Boothbay Region Historical Museum, as well as several breweries, bars and eateries serving up fresh seafood.

Best Attractions to Visit in Maine

Acadia National Park

Located in Maine, Acadia National Park offers dramatic views of the highest rocky headlands on the Atlantic coast. It is one of the best National Parks in the northeast. Spend the day and enjoy outdoor adventures such as hiking, stargazing and simply taking in beautiful scenery no matter what the season.

While at Acadia, you’ll want to plan to get up early to head to Cadillac Mountain to catch the sunrise from the highest point in the USA. Acadia also has many options for hiking from easy trails like Wonderland and Ship’s Harbor to challenging mountain hikes with awesome views. When you’re done hiking, take a short drive to Bar Harbor for a bite to eat. A self-guided driving and walking tour of Acadia and Bar Harbor will ensure that you see it all!

Located on Mount Desert Island along Maine’s Frenchman Bay, Bar Harbor is the gateway to Acadia National Park. Pronounced “dessert,” the island pays homage to Samuel de Champlain, the French voyager who explored and named the island in 1604.

Bar Harbor is mostly known for its colorful scenery and various outdoor activities including hiking, biking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. It is also a popular birding destination as well as a place to see a variety of sea-life including whales, dolphins, seals and the Atlantic puffin. However, its museums, historical structures and cultural landmarks also give a good reason to visit Bar Harbor.

One of the must-do activities in Bar Harbor is Lulu’s Lobster Boat . This downeast-style lobster boat provides visitors with a unique tour with demos of how lobster traps are hauled. As you cruise by the private islands along the way, you’ll likely spot all kinds of marine wildlife including seals.

Camden Hills State Park

Just a few minutes north of the town of Camden, the Camden Hill State Park is one of best places to visit in Maine for hiking and picturesque views of the town, Penobscot Bay and the surrounding islands.

Home to Mt. Megunticook, the highest peak on the mainland, Camden Hills State Park is one of the most beautiful places to hike. Fall “leaf peepers” will find enjoyment in the drive to Mt. Battie Auto Road with sweeping views of the hillside and its colorful fall foliage. If you choose to camp out at the park, you’ll have comfort stations with hot showers for your use. In the quintessential New England town of Camden, you’ll find numerous shops as well as a harbor that offers daily harbor cruises, whale-watching and puffin watches.

Baxter State Park

If you’re an experienced hiker who is looking for something daring and adventurous to do while in New England, the Baxter State Park is one of the best places in Maine to get your fix. Located in northern-central Maine, it doesn’t just offer stunning views, but also numerous hiking trails to choose from for all difficulty levels.

Baxter State Park is home to 220+ miles of trail and 40+ mountain peaks. With nearly 210 acres of wilderness, you won’t run out of places to explore. Just make sure you plan well ahead, as some trails can take up to 12 hours round trip to hike! If you’re planning on staying at one of its campgrounds, be prepared to be fully immersed in the wilderness— there are no showers, only outhouses!

Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach is a resort town where even visitors from Canada come to stay and play. With seven miles of beach, it is one of the best places to visit in Maine for sun and sand, as well as for some well-spent time with family and friends.

Walk along the sandy shores of the beach or take a stroll along the boardwalk lined with delicious local restaurants, small shops and hotels. Or, head to the Old Orchard Beach Pier for more choices of places to eat, drink and shop while watching the waves crash against the shore. Head to the Palace Playland amusement park for heart-pumping rides and arcade games, or visit Ocean Park for some peace and quiet time.

Cape Neddick Light (Nubble Lighthouse)

Also known as the Nubble Lighthouse, Cape Neddick Light is one of Maine’s most popular tourist attractions. As one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, it is one of the best places in Maine to visit for that “perfect” keepsake snapshot of Maine and its beautiful scenery.

Not only does Cape Neddick Lighthouse offer stunning views of the lighthouse and its surrounding area, but it also has a rich history (part of which earned its name as “Nubble Lighthouse”). Additionally, there are plenty of activities to partake in while at the park, including picnics, fishing and scuba diving.

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

With exquisite gardens and nearly a mile of tidewater shoreline, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is one of Maine’s top attractions. It is one of the best places to visit in Maine to learn about the area’s natural history and habitats, botany and horticulture.

The gardens provide more than 300 acres of waterfalls, woodlands, trails, sculptures and natural spaces, a nature lover’s dream. Younger visitors will love the Harold Alfond Children’s Garden with a rope bridge, treehouse and lawn maze. The Native Butterfly and Moth House as well as the Giles Rhododendron and Perennial Garden are also popular attractions. Summer camps and educational classes are also available for children from preschool through high school.

Farnsworth Art Museum and Portland Museum of Art

With 20,000 square feet of gallery space and more than 15,000 works of art, the nationally recognized Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland is one of the best places to visit in Maine for art lovers.

The museum is home to an extensive collection of artwork by the Wyeth family, including works by N.C., Andrew and Jaime Wyeth. It is also home to one of the largest public collections of work by sculptor Louise Nevelson. The Art Museum complex is also home to the National Register-listed, Farnsworth Homestead, the Olson House (a National Historic Landmark) and the Gamble Center for Education.

The Portland Art Museum (also known as PMA) in downtown Portland is another must-visit place in Maine for art lovers. As the largest and oldest public art institution in the US, it features American, European and contemporary paintings and structures, including work from local Maine artists.

• Disclaimers 

10 Best Places to Visit in Maine – Unforgettable Trips

18 November 2023

Maine is a captivating destination that offers a wide range of experiences. From its stunning coastline to its picturesque towns and breathtaking landscapes, there are countless places to explore in this beautiful state. In this article, I will introduce you to the 10 best places to visit in Maine , each offering its own unique charm and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re looking for popular tourist spots, hidden gems, or famous landmarks, Maine has it all. Get ready to embark on an adventure through scenic locations that will leave you in awe.

Key Takeaways:

• Discover the top must-visit destinations in Maine .
• Explore the popular tourist spots that offer unforgettable experiences.
• Uncover hidden gems in Maine that are off the beaten path.
• Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of the state’s landscapes.
• Visit famous landmarks that showcase the rich history and culture of Maine.

Baxter State Park

Baxter State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Covering 210,000 acres of wilderness, the park is home to Mt Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Hiking up this granite peak offers incredible views of Maine’s vast wilderness and is a challenging and rewarding experience. Besides hiking, the park also offers easier trails, canoeing opportunities, and picturesque campgrounds, making it the perfect place for outdoor adventures.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker looking for a thrilling ascent or a beginner seeking a more relaxed outdoor experience, Baxter State Park has something for everyone. The park features a variety of trails that cater to different skill levels and preferences. From the strenuous but awe-inspiring Knife Edge Trail to the scenic and accessible Chimney Pond Trail, there’s a trail for every adventurer.

For those who prefer water activities, Baxter State Park offers several pristine lakes and rivers, perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Paddling through the serene waters surrounded by stunning natural landscapes is a peaceful and rejuvenating experience.

Activities at Baxter State Park:

• Hiking Mt Katahdin and other scenic trails
• Canoeing and kayaking in the park’s lakes and rivers
• Camping in picturesque campgrounds
• Wildlife watching and bird spotting

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is a stunning destination that showcases the natural beauty of Maine. Located on Mount Desert Island, the park offers a diverse range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. From scenic drives along Park Loop Road to thrilling hikes up Cadillac Mountain, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the highlights of Acadia National Park is the opportunity for wild swimming. The park boasts several beautiful spots where visitors can take a refreshing dip in crystal-clear lakes and ponds. Sand Beach and Echo Lake are particularly popular for swimming, with their pristine waters and picturesque surroundings.

In addition to wild swimming, visitors can explore Acadia National Park through its extensive network of hiking trails. From leisurely walks along the coastline to challenging treks up mountain peaks, there are options for all skill levels. The park also features historic carriage roads, which are perfect for cycling and enjoying the scenic views.

Acadia National Park is truly a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering not only breathtaking natural scenery but also a wide range of recreational activities. Whether you’re looking for a scenic drive, a thrilling hike, or a peaceful swim, this park has it all.

Table: Activities in Acadia National Park

Portland: a vibrant urban experience.

When it comes to the best places for city lovers in Maine, no destination captivates quite like Portland. As the largest city in the state, Portland offers a vibrant urban experience that combines history, culture, and a thriving food and drink scene.

Start your exploration of Portland by strolling through the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Port district. This historic area is lined with beautifully preserved buildings and is home to numerous waterfront attractions, including the stunning Portland Harbor.

One of the highlights of a visit to Portland is indulging in the city’s culinary offerings. From award-winning restaurants serving up fresh seafood to local food trucks dishing out mouthwatering lobster rolls, there’s something to please every palate. Portland is also renowned for its craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering tours and tastings.

Popular Tourist Attractions in Portland:

• Portland Museum of Art: Explore the impressive collection of fine art, including works by renowned artists such as Winslow Homer and Andrew Wyeth.
• Victoria Mansion: Step back in time and admire the opulence of this preserved Italianate mansion, known for its stunning architecture and exquisite interiors.
• Casco Bay Islands: Take a ferry ride to the scenic islands of Casco Bay, where you can enjoy hiking, biking, and exploring charming seaside communities.

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse attractions, Portland is undeniably one of the popular tourist attractions in Maine that should not be missed.

Camden and Rockland

Camden and Rockland are two picturesque coastal towns in midcoast Maine that offer a quintessential seaside experience. With their charming streets, scenic harbor views, and historic attractions, these towns are sure to captivate visitors looking to immerse themselves in the beauty of Maine’s coastal villages.

In Camden, one of the highlights is the stunning view from the top of Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park. As you hike up the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of Camden Harbor and the surrounding coastline. The park also offers a variety of hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels.

In Rockland, art lovers will appreciate a visit to the Farnsworth Art Museum, which features a collection of American art, including works by renowned painter Andrew Wyeth. The museum is located in a historic building and offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s artistic heritage.

Both Camden and Rockland are known for their picturesque streets lined with charming shops, cozy cafes, and waterfront restaurants. Strolling through these towns, visitors can enjoy the serene coastal atmosphere and take in the beauty of the rugged coastline.

Table: Attractions in Camden and Rockland

Whether you’re exploring the streets, hiking a scenic trail, or indulging in delicious seafood, Camden and Rockland offer an idyllic seaside escape in Maine. These towns embody the quintessential charm of Maine’s coastal villages and provide a perfect setting for leisurely strolls, relaxation by the sea, and memorable experiences.

Read More Discover the Best Things to Do in Schaumburg Today!

Carrabassett Valley

Carrabassett Valley, located in Maine’s northwestern mountains, is a paradise for outdoor sports enthusiasts. The area is known for Sugarloaf Mountain, one of the largest ski areas on the East Coast. In winter, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on its slopes, while summer offers opportunities for mountain biking and hiking on the region’s extensive trail network. Carrabassett Valley is also home to Maine Huts and Trails, where visitors can explore the pristine woodlands and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities.

If you’re an adventure enthusiast, Carrabassett Valley is the place to be. With its scenic landscapes and thrilling outdoor sports opportunities, this destination will leave you breathless. Whether you’re hitting the slopes during the winter months or exploring the trails during the summer, Carrabassett Valley offers a wide range of activities for all skill levels.

“Carrabassett Valley is a hidden gem for outdoor sports in Maine. The beautiful landscapes and the variety of trails make it a perfect destination for skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and hiking. It’s a nature lover’s paradise!”

Don’t miss the chance to visit Maine’s Carrabassett Valley. It’s a captivating destination where you can immerse yourself in nature and experience the thrill of outdoor sports. Whether you’re seeking scenic beauty or adventure, Carrabassett Valley has it all.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a picturesque coastal town in southern Maine, offering a wide range of water-based activities and beautiful beaches. Visitors can enjoy kayaking, whale-watching, and lobster tours, or simply relax on the sandy shores of Kennebunk and Ogunquit Beaches. The town is also known for its charming shops, art galleries, and historic sites, such as the Seashore Trolley Museum. Kennebunkport is the perfect destination for those seeking a beach getaway with a mix of relaxation and coastal charm.

If you’re a fan of water activities, Kennebunkport is a dream come true. The pristine beaches offer a variety of opportunities for fun in the sun. Kayaking along the coast allows you to explore the stunning shoreline from a different perspective, while whale-watching tours give you a chance to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. For those interested in history and culture, the Seashore Trolley Museum is a must-visit. Here, you can learn about the history of trolleys in Maine and even take a ride on an authentic vintage streetcar.

When it comes to shopping and dining, Kennebunkport has plenty to offer. The town is known for its charming shops, where you can find unique souvenirs, local artwork, and handmade crafts. After a day of exploring, indulge in delicious seafood at one of the many waterfront restaurants, where you can savor fresh lobster, clams, and other local delicacies. To top it all off, the town’s friendly atmosphere and scenic beauty make for a truly unforgettable experience.

Freeport is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide range of retail therapy options for visitors. The town is renowned for its outlet stores and is most famously known for being home to the iconic LL Bean flagship store. Whether you’re searching for designer brands at discounted prices or unique, locally-made products, Freeport has it all. Indulge in a day of shopping and browse through the numerous stores that line the streets, while enjoying the small-town charm that Freeport exudes.

Aside from its shopping scene, Freeport is also home to several popular landmarks that are worth exploring. One notable destination is Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park, a scenic park that offers breathtaking views of the coastline and diverse ecosystems to discover. Take a leisurely stroll along the trails, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.

Another intriguing landmark in Freeport is the Desert of Maine, a unique geological phenomenon. Visit this hidden glacial desert and witness the fascinating landscapes that were formed thousands of years ago. Explore the sand dunes, learn about its natural history, and gain a deeper understanding of Maine’s diverse terrain.

Popular Landmarks in Freeport:

• LL Bean flagship store
• Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park
• Desert of Maine

Whether you’re passionate about shopping or interested in uncovering unique natural landmarks, Freeport promises a captivating experience for visitors. Immerse yourself in retail therapy, explore the scenic state parks, and discover the fascinating geological wonder of the Desert of Maine.

Quoddy Head State Park

Quoddy Head State Park is a hidden gem nestled along the stunning coastline of Maine. This picturesque park is home to the iconic West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, known for its unique candy-striped design and breathtaking coastal views. Venturing to the park offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the coastal beauty of Maine while enjoying a range of activities.

One of the main attractions of Quoddy Head State Park is the incredible whale watching opportunities. From the park’s rugged cliffs, visitors can witness majestic whales breaching and swimming in the pristine waters. It’s an awe-inspiring experience that allows you to connect with nature and marvel at these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.

Quoddy Head State Park offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape.

In addition to whale watching, the park also offers picturesque hiking trails that wind through forests and provide stunning coastal views. These trails allow visitors to explore the diverse ecosystems and unique flora and fauna of the area. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just looking for a scenic stroll, Quoddy Head State Park has something for everyone.

For those looking to extend their visit, Campobello Island is located just across the border in Canada and offers additional opportunities for exploration. Here, you can learn about the historic summer home of Franklin and Eleanor Roosevelt, adding another layer of cultural significance to your trip.

Whale Species Commonly Seen at Quoddy Head State Park

Quoddy Head State Park offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and those seeking a tranquil escape. Whether you’re whale watching from the rugged cliffs, exploring the scenic hiking trails, or venturing to Campobello Island, Quoddy Head State Park will leave you in awe of Maine’s coastal beauty.

Moosehead Lake: A Rustic Retreat amidst Natural Splendor

If you’re looking for a place to unwind and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of nature, Moosehead Lake in Maine is the ideal destination. Nestled amidst the tranquil wilderness, this picturesque lake offers a rustic retreat like no other. From serene hikes through lush forests to invigorating water activities, Moosehead Lake has it all.

Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Maine Highlands, Moosehead Lake provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Step out of your comfort zone and embark on thrilling adventures such as fishing for trophy-sized trout or kayaking along the crystal-clear waters. If you prefer a more leisurely pace, take a scenic boat tour while admiring the awe-inspiring beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

For those seeking a truly remote experience, camping along the shores of Moosehead Lake is a must. Picture yourself sitting by a bonfire under a starry sky, breathing in the fresh mountain air, and listening to the soothing sounds of nature. With numerous campsites available, you can find your own slice of paradise and create lasting memories with loved ones.

Whether you’re seeking solitude or quality time with family and friends, Moosehead Lake is the perfect destination. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Maine’s wilderness, and let the tranquility and natural splendor of Moosehead Lake rejuvenate your spirit.

Table: Outdoor Activities at Moosehead Lake

Allagash wilderness waterway.

For a true wilderness adventure, the Allagash Wilderness Waterway in northern Maine is the perfect destination. This 92-mile canoe trip takes visitors through pristine and untouched landscapes, providing a chance to escape on an epic canoeing trip and explore Maine’s hidden gems. The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is a remote and rugged wilderness area that offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the outside world and immerse oneself in the beauty of northern Maine.

As you paddle along the winding rivers and tranquil lakes, you’ll have the chance to observe an abundance of wildlife, including moose, bald eagles, and loons. The Allagash River, the main artery of the waterway, meanders through dense forests and offers breathtaking scenic views. Camping along the riverbanks under the starry night sky is an unforgettable experience that allows you to truly connect with nature.

The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is also rich in history, with remnants of old logging and trapping camps scattered throughout the area. As you paddle through the waterway, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the region’s storied past and imagine what life was like for early settlers in this remote wilderness.

Exploring Maine’s Hidden Gems

The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is one of Maine’s best-kept secrets, offering a true escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s a place where time slows down, and the only sounds you’ll hear are the gentle lapping of water against your canoe and the calls of birds in the distance. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a beginner looking for an adventure, the Allagash Wilderness Waterway promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of Maine’s hidden gems.

Maine is a treasure trove of captivating destinations, offering a wealth of unforgettable experiences for travelers. From the rugged beauty of Baxter State Park to the stunning coastal landscapes of Acadia National Park, the state is filled with top attractions that showcase the best of Maine.

Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures in the wilderness, exploring picturesque seaside towns, or immersing yourself in the vibrant urban scene, Maine has something for everyone. With its diverse range of must-see destinations, it’s no wonder that this state is a favorite among travelers.

So, plan your visit to Maine and embark on a journey to the best places this incredible state has to offer. Discover the breathtaking beauty of its natural wonders, indulge in delicious seafood cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history that Maine has to offer. Whether you’re a nature lover, a city enthusiast, or a beach seeker, Maine will leave you with lasting memories and a desire to return.

Q: What are the best places to visit in Maine?

A: The 10 best places to visit in Maine are Baxter State Park, Acadia National Park, Portland, Camden and Rockland, Carrabassett Valley, Kennebunkport, Freeport, Quoddy Head State Park, Moosehead Lake, and Allagash Wilderness Waterway.

Q: What can I do at Baxter State Park?

A: Baxter State Park offers hiking trails, canoeing opportunities, picturesque campgrounds, and the chance to climb Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in Maine.

Q: What makes Acadia National Park a popular destination?

A: Acadia National Park is known for its soaring granite peaks, rocky coastline, lush woodlands, and scenic trails. It also offers wild swimming spots and the chance to witness breathtaking sunrises.

Q: What is there to see and do in Portland?

A: In Portland, visitors can enjoy award-winning restaurants, breweries, cobblestone streets, historic buildings, waterfront attractions, museums, and art galleries such as the Portland Museum of Art.

Q: What makes Camden and Rockland charming coastal towns?

A: Camden and Rockland offer stunning views, historic homes, cozy cafes, waterfront attractions, and the chance to visit the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland.

Q: What outdoor sports can I enjoy in Carrabassett Valley?

A: Carrabassett Valley is known for skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking, and hiking on its extensive trail network.

Q: What can I do in Kennebunkport?

A: Kennebunkport offers water-based activities like kayaking and whale-watching, beautiful beaches, charming shops, art galleries, and historic sites such as the Seashore Trolley Museum.

Q: What makes Freeport a shopper’s paradise?

A: Freeport is known for its outlet stores, including the famous LL Bean flagship store. It also offers scenic state parks and the intriguing Desert of Maine.

Q: What can I see at Quoddy Head State Park?

A: Quoddy Head State Park is home to the iconic West Quoddy Head Lighthouse, coastal views, and the opportunity for whale watching.

Q: What can I do at Moosehead Lake?

A: At Moosehead Lake, visitors can enjoy activities like hiking, fishing, watersports, and stargazing in the tranquil wilderness setting.

Q: What is special about the Allagash Wilderness Waterway?

A: The Allagash Wilderness Waterway offers a 92-mile canoe trip through pristine landscapes, allowing visitors to disconnect and immerse themselves in the beauty of northern Maine.

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10 Best Small Towns in Maine, According to a Local

These small towns in Maine offer beautiful coastal views, charming shops, and delicious seafood.

Maine is full of small-town charm that often gets overlooked when visitors flock to the southernmost parts of the state. As a Mainer, I always encourage tourists to save time for all the magic that lies north of Portland. My advice often invites the question, "Oh, you mean Acadia National Park?" While Acadia should not be missed, I'm talking about the in-between towns — the places with convenience stores that sell a mishmash of groceries, antiques, and lawn ornaments; places where your server is probably also the owner, and where "ayuh" is used instead of "yes."

Getting to Maine is easy, as you can fly to Portland International Airport or Bangor International Airport from most major U.S. cities, or connect to a regional airport such as Hancock County–Bar Harbor Airport by going with a smaller carrier like Cape Air or Silver Air. It's also possible to take a bus (think Greyhound) or train. Amtrak's Downeaster service runs from Boston's North Station to Brunswick, Maine, with stops in popular spots like Portland, Old Orchard Beach, and Freeport along the way. Having a rental car is ideal for doing road trips to different towns and attractions around the state. Depending on where you're going, ferry service may also be an option.

As for the best times to visit Maine, the high season runs from June to August, while its low season happens from November to April. To avoid crowds and higher prices, aim for the shoulder seasons in May, September, and October when the weather is more mild. If visiting Acadia National Park is on your list, the best times to visit are a little different — the high season lasts from June through September, the low season happens from December through March, and the shoulder seasons are April, May, October, and November — so plan accordingly.

Here's a look at some of the best small towns in Maine.

Fred J. Field / Portland Press Herald / Getty Images

Most know Ellsworth as a place to drive through en route to Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island. But there are a few reasons you should do more than stretch your legs here. For starters, head to Momo's Cheesecakes , which offers over 60 flavors each day from a garage that has been renovated to keep up with the demand. The shop lets you pay by the honor system, so keep some cash handy or be ready to use Venmo or write a check.

On the other end of Main Street, 86 This! calls itself "a classy, punk-rock burrito shop," and sells creative wraps that would be perfect for your picnic basket. Nearby, yogis of all levels will delight in Steamy Buddha 's offerings, which include everything from Bikram hot yoga and Vinyasa deep flow sessions to meditation classes and a vegan-friendly cafe.

And just past the Ellsworth line, there's a Maine experience like no other: Timber Tina's Great Maine Lumberjack Show , where you can see the talented men and women show off their sawing, chopping, log-climbing, and axe-throwing skills, or even try your hand at log rolling.

Where to Stay: Under Canvas Acadia , a luxury glamping experience, is about a 10-minute drive away in Surry. You'll have several tent sizes to choose from. The Stargazer is ideal for couples, with a private bathroom, deck, wood-burning stove, and a window over the king-size bed for optimal viewing. Larger parties of up to seven may be better suited to the Cadillac Mountain Suite, which connects several suite and deluxe tents via a large private deck space. Additional options are also available for families traveling with kids under 18, giving you just enough space while offering them some independence in an attached tent.

About a 90-minute scenic drive from Bangor International Airport, Moosehead Lake — which also happens to be the largest lake in Maine — is Greenville's focal point. Experience the area's beauty on a seaplane ride with Jack's Air Service or Currier's Flying Service , where you'll be treated to incredible views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

To enjoy Moosehead Lake from the water, book a two-to-five-hour cruise aboard the Steamboat Katahdin , which has been around since 1914. Depending on the tour, you'll either pass Sugar Island, head toward Moose Island and Beaver Cove, or get closer views of mighty Mt. Kineo.

Visitors to the area can also join a Registered Maine Guide for a moose-watching wildlife safari , which involves a 3.5 to 4-hour tour by van and canoe. Lily Bay State Park is also worth a visit, known for its sandy beach, campsites, playground, and picnic areas.

Where to Stay: "Camp" is a term Mainers use in place of lake house, cottage, or cabin, so do as the locals do and rent a camp. This one-bedroom lakefront cabin , for instance, is available via Airbnb and offers amenities like a mini-fridge, a wood stove, and a private dock on Moosehead Lake.

Swan's Island

If you've dreamed of staying in a Maine town that's only accessible by ferry service , Swan's Island is the place to go for lazy days at the beach with beautiful views of nature. Its charm lies in its simplicity: here, there's just one store, a lighthouse, a museum, and a library.

While swimming is available at four public beaches, Baird's Quarry (known locally as the "quarry pond") lets visitors take a freshwater dip. Several trails, boat charters, and eco-tours are also available for travelers who prefer to stay active. If you're already planning a trip to Acadia National Park, don't miss this nearby treasure.

Where to Stay: Vacation rentals may be your best bet here, or, since the ferry leaves from Bass Harbor, staying at The Claremont Hotel is often preferred. Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, onsite restaurants, a spa, and a range of accommodations including historic hotel rooms, one-to-three-bedroom cottages in the woods, and luxury waterfront vacation homes. Otherwise, it is possible to camp overnight on the island from May through October, though space is available on a first-come, first-served basis.

When I attended the University of Maine, Orono seemed like a college town. Now that I'm a mother of two, Orono feels more like a family destination. Those seemingly contradictory vibes boil down to the idea that no one is an outsider here — you'll never feel like a tourist unless you want to.

After grabbing coffee and an acai bowl from Nest , cross the street for a hike on the scenic Stillwater River Trail , which runs four miles out and back along an old rail line. If you're up for something a bit more outdoorsy, the Maine Bound Adventure Center at the University of Maine offers kayak, canoe, and paddleboard rentals, plus rooftop kits for transport.

Locals also love Pat's Pizza or flock to Woodman's Bar & Grill for its fish tacos. And in true college town fashion, there are plenty of places to enjoy a beverage — Orono Brewing , home to the most extensive selection of craft brews is one of the most popular.

Where to Stay: Away from downtown, part of Orono is located on Pushaw Lake, where you'll find several vacation home rentals available via Airbnb, like this lovely four-bedroom lakefront house that sleeps up to 10. Guests also have complimentary access to kayaks and canoes, as well as a game room (classic arcade-style Pac-Man, anyone?). Since Orono is only about 15 minutes from Bangor, it might be worth staying in a hotel there instead. If you've got hotel points to burn, a few Bangor properties are part of the Hilton, Marriott, IHG, Choice Hotels, and Best Western loyalty programs.

Brianna Soukup / Portland Press Herald / Getty Images

Maine's Mid-Coast is lined with charming, can't-miss towns like Camden. While its downtown area is chock-full of shops, restaurants, and cafes, don't forget to find some elevation by hiking or climbing Mount Battie at Camden Hills State Park . It's a short but challenging 0.5-mile trek, and well worth it.

For a unique way to see the coast, consider a chartered excursion aboard the Moon Dog . This private vessel can accommodate up to six and be rented for trips around the bay, to its islands, or for lobster-themed trips and cookouts.

Where to Stay: 16 Bay View overlooks the harbor and is centrally located to dozens of shops and restaurants. An industrial building constructed over a century ago, the 21-room boutique hotel offers luxury amenities like private balconies, deep soaking tubs, and gas fireplaces in each room and suite. Guests also receive complimentary breakfast and access to the nearby YMCA's fitness center and its swimming pool.

Jumping Rocks / Education Images / Universal Images Group / Getty Images

Home to the Maine Maritime Academy, Castine is one of the state's most overlooked destinations — and one of the oldest. Here, you'll find more than 100 historic markers throughout town, which landed it on the National Register of Historic Places.

To get a sense of its charm, join a walking tour run by the Castine Historical Society, typically held on Friday, Saturday, and Monday mornings between late June and mid-October. Or catch up with the local crowd at Danny Murphy's Pub, an unassuming Irish dive near the water.

Where to Stay: Check into the Pentagoet Inn & Wine Bar , a historic bed-and-breakfast with an on-site pub and quaint woodland garden featuring views of Penobscot Bay. Choose from 12 rooms in the original inn, which dates to 1894 and houses the pub and restaurant, or the five rooms of the Perkins House, located next door.

In the winter months, Kingfield comes alive as a ski town of sorts, situated next door to the famed Sugarloaf Mountain. But to only know Kingfield as a place to rest your head between trips to the slopes would mean missing out on a different type of beauty that blossoms during the summer and early fall.

Outdoor enthusiasts bring their bikes and hiking shoes to hop on the 80-mile network of groomed paths known as Maine Huts & Trails . If your goal is to cover as much of the Maine woods as possible, booking a "hut" to sleep in between hikes is a great way to meet local adventurers.

Where to Stay: A number of vacation rentals are available via Airbnb, including this charming A-frame cabin , which comes with four bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a large living room complete with an electric fireplace.

Maryann Flick / Getty Images

Located on Deer Isle, Stonington has everything a visitor could want from a historic fishing village, including a working waterfront that offers a glimpse into how your famed lobster dinner was made possible. And because the town is nestled into the hillside, you'll have plenty of sweeping bay views.

While you're here, enjoy the natural beauty around you, check out the local art galleries, or take in a show at the Stonington Opera House . Of course, it wouldn't be a trip to the island without stopping at Nervous Nellie's Jams and Jellies , where eclectic sculptures and goods made by Maine artisans accompany the treats.

Where to Stay: Aragosta at Goose Cove offers dreamy oceanfront lodging with nine cottages and three suites. Its on-site fine-dining restaurant also serves creative culinary delights from a renowned chef who works directly with local fishermen and farmers to curate the freshest cuisine.

Hal Beral / Getty Images

A former mill town, Buckport sits on the banks of the Penobscot River and is home to a thriving waterfront. Take in views of Fort Knox and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge as you stroll the paved walkway, which stretches for nearly a mile, then find a bench and enjoy fried clams from Crosby's Drive-In .

Where to Stay: Think vacation rental properties, like this quiet, waterfront Airbnb , which offers amenities like a spa tub, a fully-loaded kitchen, and kayaks to help you explore the lake.

Brianna Soukup / Portland Portland Press Herald / Getty Images

Maine's Lakes and Mountains region in the western part of the state is home to several idyllic towns, including Naples, nestled between Sebago Lake and Long Lake, with another 50 lakes nearby. While you're here, learn how to water ski or wakeboard, or take it easy with a pontoon rental. Dining options are plentiful, too, with many waterfront restaurants and eateries (think: all the blueberry desserts and seafood you can eat).

Where to Stay: Open year-round, the Lakeview Inn bed-and-breakfast is all about getting some well-deserved R & R. Pick up a book from the on-site library and spend some quality time in a hammock, play some Corn Hole with your fellow travelers, unwind on the porch, and enjoy the complimentary three-course breakfast, made fresh daily.

Protect Your Trip »

The 10 best maine lighthouses to visit.

See the state's iconic structures and explore the towns nearby.

(Getty Images) |

Visit the Northeast to explore these historic light stations along the coast.

Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse: Bass Harbor, Maine

Cape Elizabeth Light (Two Lights): Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Marshall Point Lighthouse: Port Clyde, Maine

Cape Neddick Light (Nubble Light): York, Maine

Owls Head Light: Rockland, Maine

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse: Bristol, Maine

Portland Head Light: Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Seguin Island Light Station: Bath, Maine

Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse: South Portland, Maine

West Quoddy Head Lighthouse: Lubec, Maine

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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10 Of The Most Beautiful Downtowns To Visit In Maine

• Fall in Maine is the perfect time to explore the state's charming towns and cities, with their scenic, historic streets and vibrant main streets. Wander downtown areas packed with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
• Coastal villages and mountain hamlets showcase a range of architectural styles, from ornate brick buildings to colorful clapboard storefronts. These areas also host farmer's markets, art walks, concerts, and cultural festivals.
• Visiting Maine's picturesque downtowns is a must for travelers looking to experience the state's many treasures. Browse locally owned boutiques, cafes, and breweries, and admire the historic architecture that gives each town its unique charm.

One of the best free things to do in Maine during the fall is to stroll down its towns' and cities' scenic and historic streets. From Maine's oldest-founded towns to its bustling modern cities, the state has many charming areas with beautiful downtowns and vibrant main streets. These beautiful historic business districts invite visitors to park their cars and stroll from shop to shop, gallery to gallery, and restaurant to restaurant.

From coastal villages to mountain hamlets, the architecture ranges from brick buildings with ornate detailing to colorful rows of clapboard storefronts. Beyond shopping and dining, many beautiful downtown areas in Maine host farmer's markets, art walks, concerts, and festivals celebrating community and culture.

For travelers looking for some of the best trips in Maine to take in the fall , visiting these pictorial downtowns is a must. Wander the quaint sidewalks and discover locally owned boutiques, cafes, breweries, historic architecture, and more that provide a taste of Maine's many treasures.

RELATED: 10 Top Places To Retire In Maine To Enjoy New England Golden Years

Boothbay Harbor

This bustling seaside downtown overlooks the picturesque harbor and has gardens and grand old houses. The narrow main street beckons visitors to pop into boutiques, fudge shops, and restaurants housed in historic buildings.

Don't miss the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens on the outskirts, which displays ornamental gardens, native woodlands, and waterfront trails. The popular Boothbay Railway Village also offers short train excursions from the town's old restored depot.

• Location: On the coast in Midcoast Maine
• Top Attractions: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay Railway Village
• Things to Do: Ride the railway, explore the gardens, browse shops and galleries

Situated on the banks of the Sheepscot River, Wiscasset boasts one of the most beautiful downtowns in Maine; it is a nationally recognized main street lined with colonial architecture and antique shops.

Sample the famous Red's Eats lobster roll stand, which has been in business since the 1920s. Art lovers will appreciate the plethora of downtown galleries, including the Center for Maine Contemporary Art. Home to the musical Hideaway Concert Series, Wiscasset also provides great opportunities to listen to top regional bands in an intimate venue.

• Location : On the Sheepscot River in Midcoast, Maine
• Top Attraction: Musical Hideaway Concert Series
• Things to Do: Listen to live music, browse antique shops

On the shores of Long Lake, Naples' small but lively downtown stretches along Route 302. Visitors can browse the boutiques, admire the lake views, or enjoy a cone from one of Maine's most popular ice cream stands, The Naples Scoop. July 4th brings big crowds for the famous Naples Fourth of July Parade, featuring lively floats.

Nearby, walk the historic causeway over Brandy Pond or explore the Songbird Nature Center trails, surrounded by stunning fall foliage.

• Location: Near Long Lake in western Maine
• Top Attraction: Naples Fourth of July Parade
• Things to Do: Browse shops, walk the lake causeway

This town on the Penobscot River contains a charming downtown full of 18th and 19th-century buildings. Stroll the brick sidewalks and visit shops stocked with work from local artisans.

Save time for the unique Bucksport Waterfront Walkway following the river, where there's a giant replica of a sea monster. Don't miss Fort Knox, an impressive 19th-century fort upriver providing scenic hiking trails with panoramic views.

• Location : On the Penobscot River in coastal Maine
• Top Attraction: Bucksport Waterfront Walkway
• Things to Do: See the sea monster sculpture, explore Fort Knox

Surrounded by mountains on the Carrabassett River, Kingfield's small downtown consists of several blocks of historic one and two-story buildings. Pop into the galleries, boutiques, and cafés along Main Street, which serves some of the best lobster rolls in Maine , or listen to live Music at the restored 1914 Stanley Museum.

Nearby, hike Mount Abram trails winding past Kingfield Pond and waterfalls or bike the scenic Fifteen-Mile Stream trail system. In winter, Kingfield serves as the gateway to the Sugarloaf ski resort.

• Location: In the mountains of western Maine
• Top Attractions: Mount Abram, Fifteen Mile Stream trails
• Things to Do: Hike, bike, ski at Sugarloaf

This lively seaside town overlooking Penobscot Bay contains an architecturally diverse downtown lined with independent shops, galleries, restaurants, and more. As one of the most beautiful downtown areas in Maine, visitors can enjoy harbor views along the waterfront path or find creative gifts at downtown boutiques like The Green Store or Mocean.

On summer Friday evenings, residents and visitors gather for free Music by the Bay concerts at Heritage Park on the bay's shores.

• Top Attraction: Belfast Harbor waterfront
• Things to Do: Stroll the harbor path, enjoy free summer concerts

RELATED: Where Mountains Meet Ocean: 10 Best Beaches In Maine To Visit

At the heart of the midcoast, Rockland's tree-lined streets filled with striking Greek Revival homes lead down to the always-bustling harbor. Stroll the acclaimed Farnsworth Art Museum and stop into the many galleries dotted throughout downtown.

Enjoy a lobster stew lunch on a seaside deck before browsing the boutiques and cafes in historic brick buildings along Main Street. Don't miss the beloved Maine Lighthouse Museum downtown, showcasing the state's iconic beacons.

• Top Attractions: Farnsworth Art Museum, Maine Lighthouse Museum
• Things to Do: Visit museums, art galleries, boutiques

With its picture-perfect harbor and pristine historic buildings, Camden is often considered one of New England's oldest towns to serve as a vacation destination. Visitors can indulge in the lively downtown's many local shops, renowned restaurants, and waterfront inns. Be sure to hike up Mt. Battie for stunning high views over the harbor and surrounding mountains dotted with the fiery colors of autumn.

Fall also brings foodies to the popular Camden International Film Festival downtown.

• Top Attractions: Picturesque downtown, Mt. Battie
• Things to Do: Hike Mt. Battie, shop downtown, attend the Camden International Film Festival

RELATED: These Are 10 Of The Most Beautiful Ocean Overlooks You Can Find In New England

On a granite peninsula jutting into the Atlantic, this seaside village contains a quaint downtown stretching down Main Street.

Browse the historic buildings' galleries, shops, and wooden boat showrooms before enjoying fresh seafood with harbor views. Visitors can also take a narrated boat tour into nearby islands like Isle au Haut or hop the mailboat ferry to Swan's Island for a scenic ride and day trip.

• Location: Coastal village on a granite peninsula
• Things to Do: Take boat tours, ride the mailboat ferry

With roots as a Revolutionary War site, Castine offers a glimpse into 18th-century history through its well-preserved downtown. Follow the walking tour to see standout examples of Colonial and Federal architecture. Enjoy the small-town pace browsing the shops and galleries, or take a break for a craft beer and lobster roll on a hillside deck overlooking the harbor.

Don't miss stopping by Dyces Head Lighthouse, a stocky conical tower and one of the few lighthouses open to the public in Maine.

• Top Attraction: Well-preserved historic downtown
• Things to Do: Take the walking tour, browse shops and galleries

15 Best Places to Visit in Maine in Fall

For centuries, Maine has been a popular spot for summer tourism thanks to its cool climate and beautiful scenery. But, it’s also a great place to visit in the autumn. During this time, you can expect to see stunning fall foliage, native wildlife, and much more. Here are the best places to visit in Maine in fall .

Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is located on the central coast of Maine, about a one-hour drive north of Portland. This lovely small town is a popular spot for summer tourism, weddings, swimming, and boating. But, when autumn arrives and the temperatures drop, the fun continues.

Boothbay Harbor remains a top spot for ocean cruises, hiking, festivals, and much more throughout the fall. The town is the site of the annual Fall Foliage Festival, where you can shop for handmade crafts, specialty items, and locally-made food and beverages.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is undoubtedly one of Maine’s most famous tourist destinations. This stunning park includes part of the Schoodic Peninsula and 18 islands off the coast. One of the best times of year to visit is in the autumn when the Maine fall colors are at their most brilliant.

There are many popular fall activities throughout the park, which covers an astounding 49,075 square acres. These include hiking, rock climbing, kayaking and fishing on the lakes , as well as taking tours off the coast. Visitors also flock to the park to enjoy horseback riding on the trails and fall foliage tours.

Featured Fall Destinations

Pleasant Mountain

Pleasant Mountain is a popular hiking spot in Bridgton Maine . Throughout the year, you’ll see tourists and locals alike heading there to enjoy breathtaking scenery from the highest peak in Southern Maine at 2,006 ft.

The mountains include 10 miles of hiking trails, with a wide variety of options for easy, moderate, and difficult hiking. From the peaks, you can enjoy beautiful views of the Saco Valley, the White Mountains, and even Mount Washington. This is a particularly pleasant hike in the autumn when temperatures are cool and the foliage is at its most brilliant.

Mount Battie

Mount Battie is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Camden Maine . Located in Camden State Park, this short trail offers breathtaking views of the native pine forest, Camden Harbor, and Penobscot Bay .

It’s a popular spot in the spring when wildflowers are in bloom . But, it’s also worth a visit in the autumn. During this time, you’ll see a wide variety of unique flowers and foliage. And of course, there’s no beating that crisp New England autumn air during a hike.

Camden Hills State Park

Camden Hills State Park is one of the most popular state parks in Maine . The park, which includes nearly 6,000 acres of land, overlooks Penobscot Bay. It draws visitors all year long for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, ATV riding, camping, and more.

Autumn is the perfect time to enjoy any of these activities, with beautiful views of the fall foliage and crisp air being ideal for hiking! The park’s Mount Battie is one of its most popular sites, but the entire park is worth exploring.

Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway

The Rangeley Lakes National Scenic Byway is one of the most picturesque destinations in Western Maine. Thanks to its wild, rural scenery, it’s a popular route for autumn road trips, offering unmatched views of New England forests, lakes, and mountains.

The byway passes by the 112 connected lakes, as well as historic districts, forests, mountains, rivers, and much more. There are few better places to see the full variety of Maine wilderness on display!

Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maine. Located on the state’s southern border, it’s crowded with visitors throughout the summer. But, it’s also worth a visit in the fall!

During this time, most of the crowds have dispersed, which means that you’ll have the beach to yourself. It might be too cold to swim, but there are plenty of other things to do.

Boat tours are popular here, as are visits to nearby Funtown Splashtown USA. This beachside amusement park is one of the oldest and most popular in the state.

Androscoggin River Trail

Androscoggin Riverlands State Park surrounds the Androscoggin River, which flows 178 miles through the state before crossing the border to New Hampshire. It’s an extremely popular site for angling and kayaking throughout the year.

The state park includes 12 miles of the river and several hiking trails running alongside. These are popular spots for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and ATVs, especially in the autumn to view the fall foliage. Several of the trails offer scenic outlooks of the surrounding mountains, forest, and nearby historic buildings .

Pemaquid Point Lighthouse Park

Pemaquid Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in Bristol Maine. Commissioned by President John Quincy Adams and built in 1827, it now serves as a museum and a working light for the U.S. Coast Guard.

The museum and adjoining art gallery include exhibits on the history of the structure and area. But, it’s also worth visiting for the breathtaking view of Muscongus Bay and Johns Bay. During the fall, it’s the perfect spot to admire the New England fall colors!

Baxter State Park

Baxter State Park is one of the most stunningly beautiful sites in Millinocket Maine . This enormous wilderness area covers 200,000 acres in Central Maine, located in the North Maine Woods area. Baxter Peak is the northern end of the famous Appalachian Trail and is one of the most popular places to explore on the property.

However, there are many attractions throughout the park, including hiking trails, waterfalls, and a variety of wildlife. Visitors may see black bears, moose, white-tailed deer, beavers, otters, red foxes, hawks, bobcats, and martens. The fall brings brilliant colors to the park’s deciduous forests, with trees shedding their leaves fully by the end of October.

Acadia All-American Road

The Acadia All-American Road is one of the most popular short road trip routes in Maine . This 40-mile road offers an unrivaled view of Maine’s natural beauty, wildlife, and other attractions. The route takes roughly three hours to complete, making it perfect for a day trip.

It follows the northeastern coast of the state, offering stunning views of the Atlantic shoreline, cold-water lakes, deciduous forests, granite mountains, and much more. This route is perfect for a fall road trip when the colors are at their brightest.

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument

Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument is a large nature preserve in Northern Maine, encompassing more than 87,000 square acres. These include forests and mountains, as well as a small section of the East Branch Penobscot River.

This wild, rural preserve offers a quintessential experience of natural Maine, untouched by humankind. It’s a popular spot for outdoor activities, including kayaking, hiking, rock climbing, and camping.

The preserve is particularly beautiful in the fall when the forest colors turn and temperatures start to fall. Bear in mind that there’s plenty of wildlife nearby, including bobcats, moose, and lynx!

Kennebec Valley

The Kennebec Valley extends through South-Central Maine. It’s a particularly fun place to visit in the autumn thanks to its high concentration of apple orchards. The valley is home to at least a dozen!

Many of the orchards offer the opportunity to pick your own apples and have annual family-friendly fall events. You can find fun attractions of all kinds at these apple orchards. Apple season in Maine starts in August and goes until October, so take advantage of the fun while you can!

Moosehead Lake

Moosehead Lake is one of Maine’s northernmost attractions. Located in the rural Longfellow Mountains, this freshwater lake feeds the Kennebec River and is one of the largest in New England.

This peaceful lake is ringed by stunning cliffs. Thanks to its natural beauty and remote quiet, this is a perfect spot for outdoor adventurers in the autumn.

The lake contains many islands, and there’s no better place for kayaking and admiring the Maine wilderness in the fall. Just bear in mind that the lake gets its name from the large local moose population, so practice safety.

Casco Bay is an inlet beside the city of Portland Maine . It’s a popular spot for summer tourism since it’s easy to access from Maine’s southern border and provides many fun recreational opportunities.

But, it’s also a great travel destination in the fall! When temperatures cool, you’ll see tourists visiting to enjoy cruises around the bay within sight of the abundant fall foliage.

Explore More of the Best Places to Visit in Maine in Fall

Whether you’re heading to Maine’s isolated northern region or sticking to the southern coast , there are countless things to do in this beautiful state. Though temperatures are falling, you’ll find activities galore throughout the fall. By exploring, you could find more excellent places to visit in the state during the season.

The VisitMaine.Net team is the small team of authors and editors that research and write our in-depth guides throughout the site and update past articles to make sure they're still super valuable to you. We have one goal: to help you fall more in love with the state of Maine!

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• 6 Most Idyllic Small Towns in Maine

Maine is the largest New England state, bordering Canada 's Quebec and New Brunswick , the United States 's New Hampshire , and the Atlantic Ocean . This sparsely populated state is known for its natural beauty, with more than four-fifths of its land covered by forest. The state is home to much of the Appalachian Mountains , long sandy ocean beaches, and rolling valleys and rivers. Here, visitors can uncover idyllic small towns embedded in Maine's natural beauty. These towns showcase local culture, heritage, and entertainment from a fresh perspective.

Lewiston is the second largest community in the state, home to 37,000 residents. The bustling town sits along the Androscoggin River and is known for its world-class healthcare, technology, and telecommunications. In recent years, Lewiston's arts scene has exploded, an ode to Bates College. To this end, the town has a bustling calendar of events, ranging from shows at venues such as the Public Theatre and the Schaeffer Theater to annual festivals such as the Great Falls Balloon Festival and Riverfest. The historic downtown with the river's backdrop and meticulously maintained trails are the cornerstones of Lewiston's idyllic charm. Lewiston also features the Bates College Museum of Art, the Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary, and the Basílica de San Pedro y San Pablo, which boast diverse activities for visitors.

Across the Androscoggin River from Lewiston, Auburn is a town of 24,000 residents. The town was founded as a shoe manufacturing district, but today, it is known for its outdoor recreation and proximity to Lewiston. Sitting on Lake Auburn, the scenic Auburn Riverwalk, and Mount Apatite, Auburn's natural backdrop encourages its visitors and residents to engage with the outdoors. The Lost Valley Ski Area and Fox Ridge Golf Club are two of the town's best spots for outdoor recreation, attracting tourists and locals year-round. Every year, the town hosts its Winter Festival and Balloon Festival, and, like Lewiston, it has a full calendar of events across its many community and arts centers.

Waterville, home to 16,000 residents, is a small college town along the Kennebec River . Colby and Thomas Colleges contribute significantly to Waterville's arts and recreational scenes, which both locals and tourists adore. Some of Waterville's showstoppers include the Waterville Opera House and City Hall, Colby College Museum of Art, and the Waterville Historical Society. Each year, on the first Wednesday in August, The Taste of Waterville festival opens up the town's kitchens and food trucks, featuring live music, beer and wine tastings, and entertainment. Nature lovers should not fret, as there is plenty of wilderness to explore nearby. For example, the Quarry Road Trails offer all-season adventure, including cross-country trails along the Messalonskee Stream.

Sitting on Sebago Lake, Standish is home to 10,000 residents. The town sits near several additional bodies of water, including Watchic Lake and Thomas Pond, which offer endless outdoor opportunities. That said, history lovers delight in town as it was incorporated in 1785 and showcases eclectic architecture, including old log cabins, preserving its origins. The 1789 Daniel Marrett House and 1804 Old Red Church are among the most popular, showcasing local history through rustic tours. Those who can't decide how to spend the day can head into downtown, which is full of shops and eateries to keep its residents and visitors comfortable.

Located on the Atlantic Coast, this historic seaside town is known for its beautiful Main Street, tourism, and salty air. While there are only 9,000 permanent residents, Bath sees 25,000 tourists on average each year. Most visitors head straight to the downtown area, which is well-preserved, showcasing Bath's 300-year-old heritage. Continuing along the streets, some popular attractions include the Maine Maritime Museum, Chocolate Church Arts Center, and Maine's First Ship. From exhibits on the town's past to intriguing maritime tales, these sights are perfect for a day out. That said, Bath's outdoor charm shines through the nearby Popham Beach State Park, Reid State Park, and numerous city parks. One can take in the scenic views by hiking, biking, fishing, and even boating.

Bar Harbor is a quaint town famed as the gateway to the Acadia National Park and several other major ecological wonders. This is thanks to its location on Mount Desert Island , the second largest island along the eastern seaboard of the United States, second only to Long Island . Most visitors head straight to Acadia National Park, where 50,000 acres of coastal landscapes offer boating, hiking, and many more outdoor pursuits. Back in town, there is no end to the boutique hotels, restaurants, and shops offering a cozy getaway or pit stop on the border of Maine's wilderness. The town is also known for its exquisite seafood, craft beer, and home-grown produce. After grabbing a meal, consider visiting one of the many spas, such as the Bar Harbor Inn & Spa or the Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina, to thoroughly experience the town's tranquility.

Maine's diverse geography and commitment to ecological preservation make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Outdoor activities abound, from mountain adventures to fishing and coastal exploration. These towns allow visitors to witness its idyllic charm, whether through outdoor activities or historical landmarks. Moreover, its accessible location in New England attracts tourists from the U.S. and Canada for the perfect vacation.

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Where to See the Solar Eclipse: The 15 Best Cities to Watch the Event

By Katherine McLaughlin

If you’re a fan of astronomy or otherwise interested in unique natural phenomenons, you may be wondering where to see the solar eclipse today—or if the big event will be visible from your home. Today, a number of cities throughout Mexico , the United States, and Canada will experience brief moments of dawn- or dusk-like darkness right in the middle of the day. Officially described as a total solar eclipse, the occurrence happens when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and blocks the entirety of sun’s face.

Because it’s not something that happens everyday, the marvel has been prompting locals and travelers alike to scope out the best viewing locations, but fear not if you don’t have your spot figured out yet. Todays’s eclipse will travel along a wide, densely populated path. NASA estimated that 31.6 million people live in an area that will see the total solar eclipse and another 150 million are within 200 miles of it. What’s more, there won’t be another total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044, according to NASA , making it all the more important to catch this one.

For most of the United States, the eclipse won’t happen until the afternoon, meaning there’s still time to figure out how you’ll watch it. Here, AD covers everything you need to know about the upcoming event, including the 13 best cities to see the eclipse.

What is a total solar eclipse?

There are a number of different types of eclipses, which offer different views of either the sun or moon. As NASA explains it, “A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun’s light in some areas.” A total solar eclipse means the moon will completely block the sun’s face, and if you’re in the path of the eclipse, you’ll be able to see the sun’s corona and outer atmosphere, weather permitting. Other types of eclipses, like a partial solar eclipse, occur when the moon covers only some of the sun, resulting in a crescent shape.

A total solar eclipse is seen on a partly cloudy day.

How do you safely watch the total solar eclipse?

Not only are solar eclipses special because of their relative rarity, they’re unique in how they’re watched. For the few minutes when the moon is fully blocking the sun—know as totality—viewers can look directly at the sun without any eye protection. Any other time, including the hours before and after totality when you’ll see a partial eclipse, it’s important to wear protective eye gear, such as solar eclipse glasses. “As soon as you see even a little bit of the bright sun reappear after totality, immediately put your eclipse glasses back on or use a handheld solar viewer to look at the sun,” NASA explains.

How often do solar eclipses happen?

Solar eclipses, of one kind or another, happen between two and five times a year. Total eclipses happen about once every 18 months. However, this doesn’t mean one will be visible from your home this often. According to the Natural History Museum, London , a total solar eclipse is viewable from any one place about once every 400 years. For example, the last total solar eclipse visible from the United States happened in 2017 and followed a track from Oregon towards South Carolina. This year, the solar eclipse’s path will start in Texas and move northeast towards Maine. The next total solar eclipse will happen in 2026 and will be visible from the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain.

How long will the 2024 solar eclipse last?

Total solar eclipses can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. The difference in totality length has to do with how far apart the sun, moon, and Earth are at any given time, since the latter two bodies both orbit in elliptical paths.

When the Earth is furthest from the sun—making the star appear smaller—and the moon is closest to the Earth—which makes the moon look big—totality can last for over seven minutes. As Astronomy Mag reports, these circumstances will line up in about 160 years, when a solar eclipse on July 16, 2186, will see almost seven-and-a-half minutes of totality. On the other extreme, if the Earth is at its closest point to the sun and the moon is at its furthest point from Earth, humans won’t see a total solar eclipse, even if all of the celestial bodies are in line. Since totality is all about the perspective of the viewer, this is also why each city will experience the 2024 eclipse differently.

This year, totality will last for a little over four minutes in some areas, which is significantly more than the two minutes that people experienced during the 2017 eclipse. As NASA notes, “During the 2017 total solar eclipse, the moon was a little bit farther away from Earth than it will be during the upcoming total solar eclipse, causing the path of that eclipse to be a little skinnier.” Seven years ago, the path of totality—which shows which parts of the world will be able to see the total solar eclipse—was only about 62 to 71 miles wide. This year, that path ranges from 108 to 122 miles wide. “Meaning at any given moment this eclipse covers more ground,” NASA explains.

How to read maps showing the 2024 solar eclipse

As noted, this year’s path of totality is about 110 miles wide. Cities closer to the center of the path will sustain total darkness longer than those on the edges. In addition to longer totality than in 2017, this year’s path of totality covers more densely populated areas than the previous one. This means more people should be able to experience the total solar eclipse.

The 2024 solar eclipse map from NASA shows where totality will occur on April 8.

Any part of the country that is not within the path may see a partial eclipse, and the closer a location is to the strip, the smaller the crescent of visible sun will be. In these locations, it won’t be safe to look directly at the eclipse without protective glasses or a viewing device. NASA has put together an interactive map , which allows viewers to see the eclipse timing in their city.

Where to see the solar eclipse

According to NASA , cities in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will experience the total solar eclipse. Parts of Mexico and Canada will also fall within the eclipse’s path. Read on for the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse.

Mazatlán, Mexico

By Chelsea Hodson

By Sarah Archer

By Katie Schultz

Mexico’s pacific coast will be the first place in continental North America to experience the eclipse. Mazatlán, a popular resort city, is an ideal location to see the occurrence, as it is directly in the eclipse’s path. Totality will begin around 11:07 a.m. local time and last for 4 minutes and 17 seconds. Because it’s such an optimal place to see the 2024 solar eclipse, NASA is hosting a viewing event at Vidanta Mazatlán . Here, visitors will be able to watch screens showing telescope views of the eclipse in addition to other hands-on activities, such as projects for kids and touchable moon rocks.

Torreón, Mexico

Located more centrally in the country, the solar eclipse will also be visible from Torreón. Totality will start just before 12:19 p.m. local time and last for 4 minutes and 12 seconds. A partial eclipse will also be visible before and after totality, starting at 11:44 a.m. and ending at 1:54 p.m.

Texas Hill Country

Part of Texas Hill Country, Kerrville is a prime location to watch the 2024 eclipse. Near the Mexican border, it will be among the first US cities to experience totality, which will begin at 1:32 p.m. and last for almost four and a half minutes. Austin and Dallas are also in the path of totality, but will only experience the darkness for about two minutes and a little under four minutes, respectively. NASA is also hosting an event here, which will take place in Louise Hays Park and include live music, speakers, and programming for kids.

Dallas, Texas

The Dallas-Fort Worth area is among the most densely populated places from which the eclipse will be visible. Totality will last for 3 minutes and 51 seconds and begin at 1:40 p.m. The city has put together a list of ideal places within the city to watch the event, including the Dallas Zoo, Dallas Museum of Art, and White Rock Lake Park.

Russellville, Arkansas

Russellville, about 85 miles east of Little Rock, will experience 4 minutes and 12 seconds of totality, starting at 1:50 p.m. The city has planned a number of exciting programming for the historic event, including a solar eclipse festival and a concert with Grammy-winner Rhonda Vincent.

Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Located along the Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau is one of the best places in Missouri to watch the 2024 solar eclipse. According to NASA’s map, totality will last for a little over four minutes, beginning at 1:58 p.m. Head to Old Town Cape, where the city is hosting a block party on the day.

Carbondale, Illinois

Informally known as Little Egypt—possibly because the area delivered grains to northern parts of the state during the 1800s famine or because the southern tip of Illinois is similar to the Nile delta region in Egypt—Carbondale will experience 4 minutes and 10 seconds of totality, beginning at 1:59 p.m. The city also experienced totality during the 2017 eclipse, though it will see a longer dark period this time around. Home of Southern Illinois University, the school is hosting public viewing at its football stadium.

Bloomington, Indiana

Much of central and southern Indiana will experience totality during the 2024 solar eclipse, but Bloomington, largely a college town and home to Indiana University, will be among the best places in the Hoosier state to watch the event, since totality will last for about four minutes. The town is home to Indiana University, which is among our list of the most beautiful college campuses in America. Spend the afternoon strolling through the campus’s Gothic- and Romanesque-inspired buildings, and then catch the eclipse at 3 p.m.

Indianapolis, Indiana

They don’t call Indianapolis the crossroads of America for no reason: The state capital is at the intersection of four major US highways, Interstate 65, Interstate 69, Interstate 70, and Interstate 74. This means it’s a relatively accessible location for those in surrounding areas and among the best places to travel to for the solar eclipse. Here, totality will last for about 3 minutes and 47 seconds and start at 3:06 p.m. NASA is hosting an event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and will have experts on-hand to answer all questions about the eclipse. The city has also suggested White River State Park as an ideal solar eclipse viewing location, where a number of food trucks, local vendors, and other activations will be set up.

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland won’t be in a solar eclipse’s path of totality again until 2444 , making it a once in a lifetime experience for any locals hoping to watch the eclipse from their hometown. The city will experience maximum darkness at 3:15 p.m., which will last for just under 4 minutes. To commemorate the moment, the Great Lake Science Center is hosting a Total Eclipse Fest on April 6 through April 8. The free outdoor event will include speakers, concerts, performances, and hands-on science activities.

Erie, Pennsylvania

Only a small portion of northern Pennsylvania will be within the path of totality. Erie, located along the shores of the lake of the same name, will be one of the best places in the state to see the eclipse. Totality will last for 3 minutes and 42 seconds, starting at 3:16 p.m. The local government has put together a map of public parks and other viewing locations to watch the spectacle.

Buffalo, New York

Buffalo, New York, will see 3 minutes and 46 seconds of total darkness, beginning at 3:18 p.m. There are a number of public “ watch parties ” happening in the city, which the government has compiled for visitors and locals. Midcentury-modern architecture fans may want to use the day to visit Graycliff, a Frank Lloyd Wright–designed estate, which is hosting a special open house on April 8, allowing guests to watch the eclipse from the property.

Niagara Region, Ontario

Small parts of Canada will also witness total darkness during the 2024 eclipse. The Niagara region is the best place to see totality, which will start at 3:19 p.m. and last for 3 minutes and 15 seconds. Montreal will also experience totality, but only for a little over one minute.

Burlington, Vermont

Much of New England will miss out on totality during the 2024 eclipse, as the path will only cover parts of northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Burlington is among the best places for those in the region to travel to, as it will experience 3 minutes and 19 seconds of darkness, starting at 3:26 p.m.

Houlton, Maine

Maine is the northern most place in the United States to see the total eclipse in 2024, also making it the last place in the country to experience totality. Houlton will be among the best places in the state to watch the sight, and darkness will begin at 3:32 p.m. and last for 3 minutes and 20 seconds.

How will weather impact visibility?

Geographically, the cities listed above represent the best places to see the 2024 solar. However, weather will play a major role in just how well those on the ground will be able to see the phenomenon. It goes without saying that cloudy conditions or rain will impact visibility and make it harder to see the eclipse. Currently, meteorologist are forecasting worse conditions in the south-central United States, which could affect those in Texas and Arkansas. Those in the Midwest and northeast have better odds, where conditions are presently forecasted to be sunny and with clear skies.

What will I see during the solar eclipse if my city isn’t along the path of totality?

Though not every city will see a total solar eclipse, most of the United States will see at least a partial eclipse. For example, as NASA’s map shows, Seattle, which is one of the furthest metropolises from the eclipse’s path will still see about 20% of the sun covered by the moon. Here, peak coverage will happen around 11:29 a.m. On the south side of the country, Miami, which is also quite far from the eclipse’s path, will see 46.2% of the sun covered around 3:01 p.m.

On the other hand, cities which are not along the path of totality but are very close will see a greater percentage of the sun covered. St. Louis, for example, which is just outside the path of totality, will see the moon covering 99.1% of the sun during peak totality, which will happen at 2 p.m. For detailed information about your city, see NASA’s interactive eclipse map .

Can I watch the 2024 solar eclipse virtually?

If you won’t be within the path of totality, a number of organizations are live streaming the monumental event (This may also come in handy if a city experiences cloudy weather or rain on eclipse day). To start, NASA is offering live broadcasts in both English and Spanish and live streams from telescopes that will capture the eclipse as it moves across the country. Scientific American will capture the event with jets that have been converted into flying telescopes to chase the eclipse, offering a view that one simply can’t find on the ground.

ABC News and National Geographic are also teaming up to produce “Eclipse Across America,” a live special hosted by David Muir and Linsey Davis. Coverage starts at 2:00 p.m. ET on ABC, ABC News Live, National Geographic Channel, Nat Geo WILD, Disney+, Hulu and Network Social Media Platforms and will broadcast from 10 cities along the path of totality, including Mazatlán, Mexico; Russelville, Arkansas; and Houlton, Maine.

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By Kristine Hansen

By Rachel Davies

By Kristin Corpuz

I've been to all 50 states. Here are the 10 I think everyone should visit at least once.

• Over the past decade, I've traveled solo to all 50 US states and most major US national parks.
• Although I've found beauty in every state, there are some that I want to visit over and over again.
• I love traveling to places like New Mexico, Montana, New Hampshire, and Arizona.

Over the past decade, I've successfully visited all 50 US states solo. I've even made it to most of the major US national parks along the way. Because of this journey, I'm often asked which states I'd recommend to travelers.

Although most international travelers gravitate toward states like Florida and New York , I've found fantastic beauty and history in every state.

However, these are the 10 states I always return to.

New Mexico boasts a surprising variety of stunning landscapes.

New Mexico is always at the top of my list when recommending US states. Nicknamed " the land of enchantment ," it lives up to its moniker — and then some.

Those who haven't visited New Mexico may think of the state as a mostly barren desert, but it's actually the diverse landscapes that keep me coming back.

From the otherworldly dunes of White Sands National Park to the snow-capped Sangre de Cristo Mountains, there's beauty to be found around every corner.

Outside the natural beauty, the state is chock full of history, art, food, wine, and culture.

Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

With its vast open spaces, majestic mountains, and endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, Montana is a must-visit state for any outdoor enthusiast.

The state is home to the breathtaking Glacier National Park and parts of Yellowstone National Park . The sky is vast and open, the mountains are towering, and the lack of development makes me feel like I'm entering another world entirely.

California is full of diverse landscapes and experiences.

Every time I visit California , I feel like I'm entering a completely different reality.

The sheer size and diversity of the state are impressive, and it has gorgeous beaches, cities, forests, deserts, mountains, and even volcanoes.

I love road-tripping up the coast, visiting Yosemite National Park, taking a boat to the Channel Islands, and wine tasting in places like Napa and Sonoma.

There's no place quite like the Maine coast.

There's so much to love about Maine, but my favorite part of the state is the coast. With jagged and dramatic cliffs, lighthouses, and lobster shacks, visiting the Maine coast is an unforgettable experience.

It's easy to find peace in the state that sees the first sunrise of the year and is home to Acadia National Park, which is one of the country's most popular national parks.

I love to road trip up the coast, stopping in beautiful towns like Kennebunkport, Bar Harbour, and Lubec.

I've returned to West Virginia multiple times.

While it may not get as much attention as some of the other states on this list, I've returned to West Virginia multiple times since my first visit.

The state's natural beauty is stunning, from New River Gorge National Park to ample lush forests, underground caverns, historic small towns, and over 200 waterfalls .

Wisconsin is home to beautiful scenery and great dining options.

Wisconsin has so much more than first meets the eye, from the natural beauty of the Apostle Islands and the 15,000 lakes in the state to the classic cheese curds, breweries, and wineries that dot the landscape.

I love spending time along the shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, dining at one of the state's famous supper clubs, and exploring the many Wisconsin state parks.

As my home state, Colorado will always hold a special place in my heart.

I couldn't write a list like this without including my home state of Colorado. The state has so much to offer, from beautiful views to fun activities.

On the Front Range, I enjoy hiking in Boulder and exploring Cheyenne Cañon. I like to spend the night at the The Broadmoor hotel in Colorado Springs before heading over to Great Sand Dunes National Park.

In the Rockies, I love driving Independence Pass to Aspen, as well as exploring the underrated Grand Mesa, which is the biggest flat-top mountain in the world . I also enjoy taking road trips to the charming mountain towns of Telluride, Buena Vista, and Steamboat Springs.

No matter where you find yourself in Colorado, there's no shortage of incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

Utah is home to five major national parks.

Utah is a state that you have to see to believe. With five major national parks, 46 state parks, 15 ski resorts, and hidden gems at every turn — you'll never get bored here.

I love visiting Moab to hike in Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park, and Dead Horse Point State Park before heading south to Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin State Park, and Zion National Park .

I also love making stops in Park City and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument.

New Hampshire boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

The Northeast is famous for fall foliage, but I can't help but think that New Hampshire is sometimes overshadowed by its neighbors, Maine and Vermont.

I was stunned by its natural beauty during my first trip to the state. From the White Mountains to Franconia Notch State Park, the state boasts some of the best skiing and hiking in the Northeast.

Arizona is the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

Arizona is well known for the Grand Canyon, but the state has much more to offer. From Flagstaff's high-altitude forests to Sedona's iconic red rocks, Arizona's diversity is surprising and worth a trip.

I love hiking among the cacti in Sedona or Scottsdale before heading to one of the many resorts to jump in a pool or hit the spa — the perfect escape for adventure and relaxation.

• Main content

The Top 10 Best Places to Go Birdwatching in America

Plan your next vacation around these cool spots.

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Think about it: what could be better than combining your two favorite obsessions: birding and travel ? Especially when some of the world's best birdwatching can be found within America's borders, in places as pretty as northern California and coastal Maine? Best of all, the following avian hangouts are so dense in winged wonders (hellllooo Platte River Valley!) you don't need to be an expert to spot some stunning species. And some destinations, like the legendary Rio Grande Valley, are home to birds you won't find anywhere else in the nation, giving even the most experienced twitchers a chance to expand their life list (the inventory of birds a birder has spotted in their lifetime).

Many of the following vacation hotspots, which are sprinkled throughout the U.S., are best to visit in spring or fall, when long-distance migrants are moving through on their way to or from Central or South America. Some provide special birding opportunities in summer, or even winter. But all are definitely for the birds!

Acadia National Park, Maine

Thanks to an incredibly diverse landscape, ranging from wild, water-swept coastline to verdant forest and barren, rocky mountaintop, more than 300 species of birds call the nearly 50,000 acres of Acadia National Park in Maine home. That includes the 20-plus species of warblers that nest in spring and summer on Mount Desert Island, though the park is a birder's paradise in all seasons.

Popular annual avian events include the Acadia Birding Festival in early summer and autumn's Cadillac Mountain Hawk Watch, a prime time to check out the thousands of raptors that descend on the area as they head south for the winter.

Looking to spot the iconic (if slightly silly-looking) puffin? Maine is the only state to boast breeding populations of the bird, which nest on offshore islands (not technically part of the park) come warm weather. Tour boats that visit the islands leave from Bar Harbor, the gateway to Acadia, and other towns along the coast.

Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, New Mexico

Tucked away between the Chupadera and San Pascual mountains along the Rio Grand River, Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge was created in 1939 to provide an overwintering habitat for migrating waterfowl. By November each year, the refuge's nearly 60,000 acres play host to sandhill cranes, ducks, and snow and Ross's geese numbering in the tens of thousands.

The birds' return to the refuge is celebrated annually in late fall with the Festival of the Cranes , while the springtime migration—known for visiting and nesting flycatchers, vireos, and a dozen species of warblers—gets its own special event in May. Spring is also a good time to catch sight of the legendary greater roadrunner (maybe even with a coyote in hot pursuit).

Although summer in the Bosque del Apache National Wildlife Refuge can get as sultry as you might expect, birders who head out in the morning and evening hours may be rewarded with sightings of black-chinned, broad-tailed, calliope and rufous hummingbirds.

Plan Your Trip

Cape May, New Jersey

Named by National Geographic as one of the best places in the world to birdwatch, Cape May is blessed with a location along the Atlantic Flyway (a sort of north-south super-skyway for migrating birds), westerly winds and a range of habitats pleasing to our fine feathered friends. Thanks to these and other factors, as many as a whopping 400 species of birds visit Cape May during fall migration.

Songbirds galore like vireos, tanagers, grosbeaks, warblers, buntings, and orioles flood the peninsula in September and October, along with raptors such as falcons, hawks and eagles. Ideal viewing spots include the Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area and Cape May Point State Park , but be sure to keep an eye for smaller flying critters. The area's famed monarch butterfly migration usually begins in late September and continues through mid-October.

Cape May Bird Observatory and New Jersey Audubon coordinate a wealth of fun events in Cape May throughout the year, from migration watches to fall and spring festivals and The World Series of Birding . Held every May, the fundraiser benefits bird conservation by challenging teams to count the most species in a 24-hour period.

Cave Creek Canyon, Arizona

Cave Creek Canyon , which sits pretty at 5,000 feet, on the eastern side of the Chiricahua Mountains, is home to the elusive elegant trogon. One of the country's most sought-after birds by hobbyists, this beautiful metallic-green and scarlet red fellow's range in the U.S. is mostly limited to southeastern Arizona. You'll find him summering here, in this stunning slice of Coronado National Forest, most likely near the south fork of Cave Creek.

Of course, as rare as the elegant trogon is, he's just one of as many as 370-some species birders may see in the canyon, including a dozen species of hummingbirds in the summertime.

Thanks in part to the area's astounding biological diversity, which ranges from desert to grassland and various types of woodlands and forests, species as varied as the Western screech owl, the sulphur-bellied flycatcher, the cactus wren, the hairy woodpecker, and the majestic golden eagle all thrive in Cave Creek Canyon.

Central Park, New York

It may seem counterintuitive to recommend a park nestled within a bustling city as a haven for birders. But Central Park , an 843-acre rectangle that dates to the mid-19th century, provides a critical pit stop for birds migrating along the Atlantic Flyway. Spring and fall are thus the peak birding seasons, with as many as 30 warbler species sometimes seen on a single day. In total, more than 280 bird species have been recorded in Central Park.

The best places for birding in the park include the 40-acre North Woods; The Ramble, featuring a leafy canopy and feeders to entice avian creatures; and The Pond. It's frequented by everything from great egrets to majestic red-tail hawks, which are year-round Big Apple residents. Peregrine falcons, another raptor favorite, also are permanent fixtures in Central Park (as are dedicated local birders, who are usually happy to point out birds to fellow enthusiasts).

Otherwise, in the wintertime keep an eye out for six species of owls, including the great-horned, barred, and northern saw-whet. Spring brings everything from cuckoos to flycatchers, kinglets and freshwater sandpipers. In fall, along with warblers, Central Park trees fill with sparrows, thrushes, and birds of prey.

Everglades National Park, Florida

The largest subtropical wilderness in the country, Everglades National Park sprawls across 1.5 million acres in southern Florida but can be easily accessed via entrances in Miami, Everglades City, and Homestead. The dry season, which lasts from December to April, is best for birding. Not only are there fewer mosquitos, but the warm winters attract the greatest variety of wading birds.

They include the wood stork—once endangered and still federally listed as threatened—the pink-plumed roseate spoonbill, the least bittern, the glossy ibis and an array of egrets and herons. Some of the other 360-some species seen in the park include the brilliant blue indigo bunting, the pleasingly acrobatic purple martin and the little yellow warbler.

There are a number of trails in Everglades National Park popular for birding, most accessible from the main entrance in Homestead, but the "River of Grass" can also be explored via everything from trams to airboats. Guided birdwatching tours are available from both park rangers and outside companies .

Magee Marsh Wildlife Area, Ohio

A refuge for 36 species of migrating warblers (including the endangered Kirtland's warbler) and more than 100 species of other songbirds, Magee Marsh Wildlife Area serves up some of the country's best birding come mid-May. In total, around 310 species of birds have been found here in spring, but the 2,200 acres of unspoiled wetlands along western Lake Erie draw plentiful species of birds in the fall, too. They include jaw-dropping numbers of waterfowl like Canada geese, mallards, green- and blue-winged teal and gadwall.

The well-maintained trails at Magee Marsh make birding here a bit less taxing than at some other avian-rich destinations. Most notably, the mile-long Magee Boardwalk offers twitchers a stellar view of neotropical migrants without having to work up a sweat. Meanwhile, birders should head to Hawkwatch Tower to see bald eagles, a wide array of hawk species, and osprey soar in the springtime.

The Biggest Week in American Birding , an annual 10-day extravaganza that takes place each May in northwest Ohio, will offer two daily guided walks at Magee Marsh, along with a wide range of other field trips, workshops, and special events.

Platte River Valley, Nebraska

Dubbed one of the planet's greatest migrations, the mind-boggling influx of one million sandhill cranes into the Platte River Valley should be on every birder's bucket list. Each year, beginning in mid-February, 80 percent of the world's population of the tall, leggy, crimson-capped wading birds descend on central Nebraska. They stay until early April, taking a well-earned breather before heading on to their breeding grounds in Alaska, Canada, and Siberia.

Among the world's oldest birds, the sandhill cranes spend their days in farm fields, chowing down on corn leftover from fall's harvest. They return to the safety of the Platte's shallow waters to roost at sunset, making dusk and dawn ideal times for crane watching. Blinds line the river; other perches include Fort Kearny Bridge in Kearney and Plautz Viewing Platform , south of Gibbon.

Or, visit Iain Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary for guided sunrise and sunset crane tours. They also offer an overnight photography experience for dedicated shutterbugs who don't mind spending the night in a blind.

Point Reyes National Seashore, California

According to the folks at Point Reyes National Seashore , their piece of the Northern California coast "claims the prize for the greatest avian diversity of any national park." Nearly 490 species, or over half of all North American bird species, have been observed there. This staggering number is due to the park's more than 70,000 acres of diverse, unspoiled habitat; coastal location; advantageous latitude; and the 10-mile projection of the peninsula into the sea, which attracts "vagrants," birds that have made navigation errors during migration.

Its location on the Pacific Flyway (like the Atlantic Flyway, a major north-south skyway for migrating birds), means that fall and spring are plenty productive in Point Reyes, though the winter months offer great flocks of waterbirds thousands strong. Head to Limantour Estero or Bolinas Lagoon to catch grebes, cormorants, pelicans, kingfishers, ducks, and more, while Abbotts Lagoon is home to coots, black-shouldered kites, Caspian terns, a variety of raptors and nests of the threatened western snowy plover. (The threatened northern spotted owl also flourishes in the park.)

The park hosts several annual ornithological events throughout the year, like spring's Point Reyes Birding and Nature Festival , which boasts a wide variety of guided birding walks, and the Point Reyes Christmas Bird Count , with hundreds of volunteers tallying up the birds they observe throughout the day.

Rio Grande Valley, Texas

It's almost impossible to beat the Rio Grande Valley for birding. Some 500 species have been documented in this mostly subtropical area, which unspools across 4,200 square miles and four counties in the southernmost tip of the Lone State State. Nestled within the convergence of the Mississippi and Central flyways, this is the place to check birds off your list you won't find anywhere else in the country, including such showstoppers as the great kiskadee, the green jay and the buff-bellied hummingbird.

The World Birding Center is an invaluable resource for visitors, maintaining nine unique locations, each representing one of the valley's diverse landscapes. Depending on the facility, they offer goodies like tours and other special programming, exhibits, trails, boardwalks, observation towers, bird blinds, feeding stations, and even trams.

The birds vary by site, too, with everything from plain chachalacas and Altamira orioles sighted at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley to endangered brown pelicans and piping plovers spotted at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. Want to flock together with some birds of a feather? The Rio Grande Valley Birding Festival runs for four days in November, offering a wealth of field trips, keynote speakers, workshops and more.

Jill Gleeson is a travel journalist and memoirist based in the Appalachian Mountains of western Pennsylvania who has written for websites and publications including Good Housekeeping, Woman’s Day, Country Living, Washingtonian, Gothamist, Canadian Traveller, and EDGE Media Network. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots.com.

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Watch CBS News

What time the 2024 solar eclipse started, reached peak totality and ended

By Sarah Maddox

Updated on: April 9, 2024 / 5:04 AM EDT / CBS News

The 2024 solar eclipse will be visible across North America today. As the moon's position between the Earth and sun casts a shadow on North America, that shadow, or umbra, will travel along the surface from west to east at more than 1,500 miles per hour along the path of totality . 

That means the eclipse will start, peak and end at different times — as will the moments of total darkness along the path of totality — and the best time to view the eclipse depends on where you are located. Some places along the path will have more totality time than others.

In Texas, the south-central region had clouds in the forecast , but it was better to the northeast, according to the National Weather Service. The best eclipse viewing weather was expected in New Hampshire, Vermont and Maine, as well as in Canada's New Brunswick and Newfoundland.

What time does the 2024 total solar eclipse start?

The total solar eclipse will emerge over the South Pacific Ocean before the shadow falls across North America, beginning in parts of Mexico. The path of totality , where onlookers can witness the moon fully blocking the sun (through eclipse viewing glasses for safety ), is expected to first make landfall near the city of Mazatlán around 9:51 a.m. MT. 

The total solar eclipse will cross over the U.S.-Mexico border into Texas, where it will emerge over Eagle Pass at 12:10 p.m. CT and then peak at about 1:27 p.m. CT.

In Dallas, NASA data shows the partial eclipse will first become visible at 12:23 p.m. CT and peak at 1:40 p.m. CT. The next states in the path of totality are Oklahoma and Arkansas, where the eclipse begins in Little Rock at 12:33 p.m. CT. 

Cleveland will see the beginning of the eclipse at 1:59 p.m. ET. Darkness will start spreading over the sky in Buffalo, New York, at 2:04 p.m. ET. Then, the eclipse will reach northwestern Vermont, including Burlington, at 2:14 p.m. ET. Parts of New Hampshire and Maine will also follow in the path of totality before the eclipse first reaches the Canadian mainland  at 3:13 p.m. ET.

Although the experience won't be exactly the same, viewers in all the contiguous U.S. states outside the path of totality will still be able to see a partial eclipse. Some places will see most of the sun blocked by the moon, including Washington, D.C., where the partial eclipse will start at 2:04 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:20 p.m. ET.

In Chicago, viewers can start viewing the partial eclipse at 12:51 p.m. CT, with the peak arriving at 2:07 p.m. CT.  In Detroit, viewers will be able to enjoy a near-total eclipse beginning at 1:58 p.m. ET and peaking at 3:14 p.m. ET.

New York City will also see a substantial partial eclipse, beginning at 2:10 p.m. ET and peaking around 3:25 p.m. ET.

In Boston it will begin at 2:16 p.m. ET and peak at about 3:29 p.m. ET.

The below table by NASA shows when the eclipse will start, peak and end in 13 cities along the eclipse's path.

What time will the solar eclipse reach peak totality?

Millions more people will have the chance to witness the total solar eclipse this year than during the last total solar eclipse , which was visible from the U.S. in 2017. 

The eclipse's peak will mean something different for cities within the path of totality and for those outside. Within the path of totality, darkness will fall for a few minutes. The longest will last more than 4 minutes, but most places will see between 3.5 and 4 minutes of totality. In cities experiencing a partial eclipse, a percentage of the sun will be obscured for more than two hours.

Mazatlán is set to experience totality at 11:07 am PT. Dallas will be able to see the moon fully cover the sun at 1:40 p.m. CT. Little Rock will start to see the full eclipse at 1:51 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 3:13 p.m. ET and Buffalo at 3:18 p.m. ET. Totality will reach Burlington at 3:26 p.m. ET before moving into the remaining states and reaching Canada around 4:25 p.m.

Outside the path of totality, 87.4% of the sun will be eclipsed in Washington, D.C. at 3:20 p.m. ET, and Chicago will have maximum coverage of 93.9% at 2:07 p.m. CT. New York City is much closer to the path of totality this year than it was in 2017; it will see 89.6% coverage at 3:25 p.m. EDT. 

Detroit is another city that will encounter a near-total eclipse, with 99.2% maximum coverage at 3:14 p.m. ET. Boston will see 92.4% coverage at 3:29 p.m. ET.

What time will the solar eclipse end?

The eclipse will leave continental North America from Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NT, according to NASA.

At the beginning of the path of totality in Mazatlán, the eclipse will be over by 12:32 p.m. PT, and it will leave Dallas at 3:02 p.m. CT. The eclipse will end in Little Rock at 3:11 p.m. CT, Cleveland at 4:29 p.m. CDT and Buffalo at 4:32 p.m. ET. Burlington won't be far behind, with the eclipse concluding at 4:37 p.m. ET.

Meanwhile, the viewing will end in Chicago at 3:21 p.m. CT, Washington, D.C. at 4:32 p.m. ET, and New York City at 4:36 p.m. ET. 

In Detroit, the partial eclipse will disappear at 4:27 p.m. ET, and in Boston, it will be over at 4:39 p.m. ET.

How long will the eclipse last in total?

The total solar eclipse will begin in Mexico at 11:07 a.m. PT and leave continental North America at 5:16 p.m. NT. From the time the partial eclipse first appears on Earth to its final glimpses before disappearing thousands of miles away, the celestial show will dazzle viewers for about 5 hours, according to timeanddate.com . 

The length of the total solar eclipse at points along the path depends on the viewing location. The longest will be 4 minutes and 28 seconds, northwest of Torreón, Mexico. Near the center of the path, totality takes place for the longest periods of time, according to NASA.

Spectators will observe totality for much longer today than during the 2017 eclipse , when the longest stretch of totality was 2 minutes and 32 seconds.

The moon's shadow seen on Earth today, called the umbra, travels at more than 1,500 miles per hour, according to NASA. It would move even more quickly if the Earth rotated in the opposite direction.

What is the longest a solar eclipse has ever lasted?

The longest known totality was 7 minutes and 28 seconds in 743 B.C. However, NASA says this record will be broken in 2186 with a 7 minute, 29 second total solar eclipse. The next total solar eclipse visible from parts of the U.S. won't happen until Aug. 23, 2044.

Sarah Maddox has been with CBS News since 2019. She works as an associate producer for CBS News Live.

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