18 Best Places To Visit In Maine, USA - Updated 2024

best places to visit in maine
Mich
Mich 
Updated
| 9 min read

Can’t choose where to go in the United States, but you want a destination that is relaxing and at the same time will provide many possibilities for an adventure? If that’s the case, you need not look far, because Maine is not tagged as the ‘Vacationland of America’ for nothing. This state is famous for its rich maritime history, unique rocky coastline, and natural attractions, as well as for its culture and cuisine. You’ll love that there are plenty of options depending on what kind of adventure you want to partake in during your visit or road trip to the state. To know what cities will suit the type of holiday you have in mind, make sure you read our list of the best places to visit in Maine, USA.

1. Portland (from USD 36.0)

A charming city set on a peninsula in Maine that stretches up to Casco Bay, Portland is one of the most populous cities in the state, with a population of 66,417 as of 2018. One of the most visited places here is the Old Port waterfront which features aged warehouses containing excellent restaurants, specialty shops, and working fishing wharves. Also, this city doesn’t run out of spectacular views and picture-perfect areas, which include the Western Promenade which is located atop a hill and offers wondrous views of the mountains, the river, and the West End where you’ll find many historic houses from the Victorian-era, including the Victoria Mansion Museum. The recreational area of Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park is also a favorite destination among tourists.

Visited this place?

Portland, Maine Guided 1-Hour Tour on a Vintage Fire Engine

Duration: 50 minutes

610 reviews

2. Mount Desert Island

Back Beach, Mount Desert Island, Maine!
Source: Photo by Flickr user Dana Moos used under CC BY 2.0

The largest island off the coast of the state of Maine, Mount Desert Island, has an area of 108 square miles (279.7 sq km), which makes it the 52nd largest island in the United States. The island is also home to many summer colonies like Northeast Harbor and Bar Harbor, two areas that will make everyone’s dream holiday come true. Additionally, the island features 26 lakes and ponds that serve as the location for most of its parks. If you want to experience an authentic, mountains-meet-the-sea moment, then, don’t think twice - visit the beautiful island of Mount Desert.

Visited this place?

3. Bangor

Downtown Bangor
Source: Photo by Flickr user Martin Cathrae used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Arts and nature are two things that will lure you into visiting Bangor. Bangor is a city in Maine, located in Penobscot County. It is known for its colossal statue of Paul Bunyan, who is a giant lumberjack in American folk stories. The statue also tells about the past of the city as a timber hub. Two of the museums here that you shouldn’t miss visiting are Maine Discovery Museum for kids which features interactive exhibits about arts, science, and nature, and the University of Maine Museum of Art which contains collections of modern and contemporary artworks. In case it’s outdoor activities you’re after, then you should see Bangor City Forest which is intersected by many trails and is home to deer and beavers.

Visited this place?

4. Lewiston

Wonder Max
Source: Photo by Flickr user Paul VanDerWerf used under CC BY 2.0

The second-largest city in the state of Maine, near Portland, Lewiston is located in the heart of Androscoggin County. Lewiston and Auburn make up the twin cities of Maine. These two are only separated by Androscoggin River, and you can walk between the two towns by strolling along the Auburn Riverwalk. This pedestrian pathway is a mile-long paved way that begins from a small park next to the Great Falls in Auburn and crosses a bridge that extends up to Simard-Payne Memorial Park in Lewiston. One of the top attractions here is the Museum L/A, with exhibits that will tell you about the history of the working people of Maine. You’ll also come across displays about local textile and brickmaking industries in these two cities.

Visited this place?

Maine Tour Guide

Naim Benmayor

Naim Benmayor

As a Boston tour guide, I have the added experience of being a world traveler. For many years, I frequently visited Europe, Asia, and Latin America on business. During this time, I also organized tours of the USA, Europe and Asia for my business clients. I now bring this passion, excitement and expertise to the Boston area.By exploring the globe, I was exposed to various cultures, and this unique perspective has taught me what appeals to people when visiting a new part of the country or a new part of the world. My fluency in English and Turkish, and my advanced skills in Spanish and intermediate skills in French, also help me to service a wider range of tourists and business people.I moved to Boston, Massachusetts several years ago, and I now reside in Brookline. I have three children, so I develop my tours to accommodate families with kids, couples, and individuals who want to visit and learn about the rich history and culture of Boston. As a parent, I know that Boston is a great place for higher education, and I have knowledge of the colleges and universities in the area.I customize tours to suit the needs and preferences of my customers. Whether you want a walking tour, a riding tour, or a little of both, I can create an itinerary that showcases the best of what Boston has to offer.My one day tours are educational and entertaining, and include the history, culture, personalities, architecture and, even the shopping areas of this renowned city. At the end of the tour you will be happy and satisfied when you realize you've seen so much in just a short time.I am here to share my knowledge of Boston, Cambridge and all of New England with you, and help you to enjoy your visit so you can explore the must-see parts of this great city. I look forward to meeting you and guiding you around the city, so please send me a message if you have any questions.Thank you for reading.

5. Ellsworth

Ellsworth city hall steve
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Steve911b used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The fastest-growing city in Maine, Ellsworth, is in Hancock County and serves as the commercial center and the gateway to the Downeast Region. There are two major attractions here: Black Mansion and Birdsacre. Black Mansion or Woodlawn Museum is an 1828 estate owned by Colonel John Black, a place that is beautifully preserved and features exceptional period furniture. You’ll also be welcomed by costumed guides who will help you understand the history and the special characteristics of the interior as well as the outer buildings. As for Birdsacre, it is a perfect nature attraction for the whole family. This wonderful natural museum has a nature walk through a beautiful shelter that contains a bird nesting area, local wildflowers, wooded glens, and a pond that is abundant with aquatic life.

Visited this place?

6. Augusta

The Blaine House, Augusta, Maine
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Emmeline Laura used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The capital of Maine, Augusta, is known for preserving and honoring the state’s rich history, which you can see in its many attractions like Old Fort Western, the oldest wooden fort in the United States. It is an 18th-century wooden fort, located next to the Kennebec River, and features a recreated general store. Another must-visit site that showcases the city’s beautiful past is Maine State Museum which contains exhibits about local and natural history. Other highlights of the city include the 19th-century Maine State House and Blaine House.

Visited this place?

7. York

Nubble Lighthouse
Source: Photo by Flickr user Mark Bonica used under CC BY 2.0

Nestled on the southern tip of Maine, in York County, York is another great summer location in the state. This place features three sandy beaches including Long Sands Beach, Short Sands Beach, and York Harbor Beach, where families and friends can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities. Apart from gorgeous beaches, you’ll also find 18-hole golf courses that will surely be enjoyed by golf enthusiasts. It is also home to Nubble Lighthouse, which is located on Cape Neddick and is one of the most famous lighthouses in Maine. Another highlight of the town is Mount Agamenticus, a monadnock that is 692 ft (210.92 m) high.

Visited this place?

8. Monhegan Island

Monhegan Island, Maine
Source: Photo by user Navin75 used under CC BY-SA 2.0

A romantic island on the rocky coast of Maine, Monhegan Island is known to serve as a temporary home to many well-known people from American art history, including artists like Rockwell Kent, Edward Hopper, and George Bellows. The island is a vibrant mix of colors, which is brought about by its 400 species of wildflowers, stunning 19th-century houses piled with lobster pots, and the sea. Also, you shouldn’t miss the chance to see its stony beaches and exciting 160-ft (48.77-m) cliffs - these are the same spots where you can go whale and bird watching on the way to or from Canada.

Visited this place?

9. Castine

A Civil War monument (1887) on the town common (or green), Castine, Maine, USA
Source: Photo by Flickr user Spencer Means used under CC BY-SA 2.0

One of the prettiest coastal towns, according to Americans, Castine features scenic views, lovely eats, charming inns, and historical attractions. The city is small enough to explore for a day. You can start your tour here by eating at one of the best local restaurants, the Breeze & Castine Variety, a great place for lunch or take-out. For safety measures, order their bestseller, which is the lobster roll with potato chips on the side. After eating, you can stroll around the city and see beautiful New England architecture, or walk along the harbor and check out the many dining options and pubs with coastal views. Also, don’t forget to visit historical attractions like Castine Post Office, Wilson Museum, and Castine Historical Society.

Visited this place?

10. Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor, Maine, USA
Source: Photo by Flickr user Domenico Convertini used under CC BY-SA 2.0

A town located on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is situated along Frenchman Bay and serves as the gateway to Acadia National Park’s mountains and cliffs. One of the things you shouldn’t miss here is a whale watching tour, where you can spot different species of whales like the humpback, finback, and minke. If you want to know about the area’s history, drop by Abbe Museum downtown and get to know the native Wabanaki people, who are the original Native Americans. Other popular destinations include Cadillac Mountain, Thurston’s Lobster Pound, Bar Harbor’s Shore Path, and Bar Harbor Cellars.

Visited this place?

11. Freeport

L.L. Bean Hunting and Fishing Store, Freeport ME
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user John Phelan used under CC BY 3.0

If you’re into shopping, you certainly shouldn’t miss visiting Freeport, as it is known for its many outlet stores where you can buy items at a cheaper price compared to a regular retail store. As an example, the city houses L.L. Bean’s flagship store, a retail hub that focuses on clothing and outdoor recreation goods. A perfect backdrop for your vacation photos is the Desert of Maine, a 40-acre (16.19-hectare) desert with sand dunes made from a glacial outwash from the Ice Age and surrounded by lush pine forests.

Visited this place?

12. Saco

Saco Historic District (Maine)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Kenneth C. Zirkel used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Are you dreaming of vacationing at Saco because of its beaches, friendly locals, and picturesque scenery? If so, make sure you bring the whole family with you when you visit, as this place offers numerous family-friendly attractions and picturesque coastlines. As an example, you’ll find two famous amusement parks in Maine: Funtown Splashtown USA, the largest amusement park in the state, and Aquaboggan Water Park, Maine’s original water theme park. After a day at the waterpark or the beaches, the next item on the list is catching a movie at the Saco Drive-In, one of the surviving drive-in theaters in Maine.

Visited this place?

13. Northeast Harbor

Boats docked at Northeast Harbor, ME IMG 2154
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Billy Hathorn used under CC BY 3.0

Another summer colony on Mount Desert Island in Maine, Northeast Harbor is known to be the summer destination of the rich and famous. The Rockefeller family often visits this village during the holidays. Apart from them, there is also a time when this place becomes popular among Philadelphians, especially to some members of the Clark banking family, which is why it is sometimes called “Philadelphia on the rocks”. This village features one of the most stunning protected harbors in the United States and contains numerous yachts and sailing vessels. Other attractions you must visit here include Asticou Azalea Garden and Thuya Garden.

Visited this place?

14. Scarborough

Lobstering Boats
Source: Photo by Flickr user Rich Brooks used under CC BY 2.0

If you want a summer holiday away from the hustle and bustle of the big city, then Scarborough is the right summer location for you. It is only 7 miles (11.3 kilometers) from South Portland but far away from the big city. This lovely town offers numerous beaches with many activities, like swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, and more. A few of the beaches you will find here include Pine Point Beach, a family-friendly beach; Higgins Beach, a must-visit for people who want to avoid the crowd; and Ferry Beach, where you’ll find many lobster boats. You can also visit Scarborough Beach State Park, a fine beach with lifeguards and a snack shack at the end of Black Point road.

Visited this place?

15. Kennebunkport (from USD 139.0)

Kennebunkport, Maine
Source: Photo by Flickr user Amy Meredith used under CC BY-ND 2.0

A lovely coastal town located in southern Maine, Kennebunkport is an excellent summer destination in the state. This town is known for its many sandy beaches, which include Goose Rocks Beach and Arundel Beach. One of the top things to visit here is the Seashore Trolley Museum, where you’ll find a large collection of streetcars. Another attraction is the rustic stone church of St. Ann’s Episcopal which is set on a grassy land with incredible views of the ocean. It is a family-friendly town, so make sure to bring the whole family with you when you visit for a memorable holiday ahead. 

Visited this place?

Kennebunkport: A Tasty Lunchtime Walking Tour

Duration: 2 to 3 hours

6 reviews

16. Camden

Camden, Maine
Source: Photo by Flickr user Kevin Dooley used under CC BY 2.0

Poised on the bay of Penobscot, in the MidCoast region of Maine, Camden is a charming town waiting to be explored. And as proof, you should see Camden Hills State Park, with its magnificent view of the harbor and the bay. One of its many highlights is the High Street Historic District which contains numerous 19th-century homes. It is also where you’ll find Camden Public Library, a building that features a lovely landscaped amphitheater. Another highly recommended attraction here is the restored Camden Opera House which is a venue for many performances and shows like dance, music, and film.

Visited this place?

17. Rockland

Limerock Inn, Rockland, Maine
Source: Photo by Flickr user Kevin Dooley used under CC BY 2.0

Not far from Camden is the city of Rockland, which is a cheaper, quieter, and less touristy option than Camden. It is also a popular vacation destination for its Rockland Lobster Festival which started in 1947 and has been running for more than 72 years now. Every year, the lobster celebration draws over 10,000 visitors waiting to devour this delicious seafood goodness. Apart from the event, Rockland is home to many attractions and activities. Whether you are a foodie, an art enthusiast, or an adventurer, the city has something to offer you, including viewing arts at Farnsworth Museum, dining at Cafe Miranda, hanging out with friends over bottles of beer at Rock Harbor Brewing, and going on a day trip to Boothbay Harbor.

Visited this place?

18. Bath

Bath Maine
Source: Photo by Flickr user James O'Keefe used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Located in Sagadahoc County in Maine, Bath is a beautiful, well-preserved city that features various attractions, ranging from beautiful beaches to museums and must-eats. The city’s downtown area is known to be a premier shopping destination, with boutiques, antique shops, jewelry shops, specialty stores, and more, lining up its street - no wonder it is considered one of the best shopping locations in New England. Also, one of the things you shouldn’t miss doing is immersing in the city’s rich culture, which you can learn more about by watching a cultural show at Chocolate Church Arts Center. The center offers plenty of shows throughout the year, including art exhibits, theater plays, and live music.

Visited this place?

Choose Maine

A vacation everyone needs to have once in a while, Maine offers various activities and attractions such as white-sand beaches, mountain peaks, dramatic rocky cliffs, beautiful islands, lobster feasts, and historical sites. There is something for everyone here, so make sure you plan ahead before going. Don’t forget to check out our list of the best places to visit in Maine, USA, and have a wonderful vacation ahead.

Visited this place?
Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

History


Get Trip101 in your inbox

Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data

Michelle, a devoted writer and travel enthusiast, endeavors to make a living through her love for words. Her objective is to explore the world, connect with diverse individuals, and motivate others...Read more

 Want to contribute as a Local Expert?
Explore Maine
Looking for accommodation?
x
Good things are meant to be shared!
Back to top
Visited any of these places? Click this button to activate our "Add a Tip" feature to share your experience.