20+ Best Places to Visit in Maine: Explore the Wonders

Maine is the easternmost state in the New England region of the northeastern United States, and its beaches are often ranked as the best in the States. It’s famous for many things, and one of the most notable is its tourist attractions, which attract millions of visitors each year and generate huge revenue. The state can be planned as a weekend getaway from NYC; the distance between the two is about 5 hours by car. As a coastal state, its destinations are most suitable for individuals or couples passionate about marine activities, ocean air, and seafood, especially lobster. If you’re planning to visit this place, follow Cabin Zero; we’ve compiled the 20+ most famous and appealing places in Maine, only for you. 1. Acadia National Park Acadia National Park has an appealing and captivating landscape. Photo by jovannig - stock.adobe.com Acadia National Park is one of the best places to visit in Maine for those who love nature and camping. Although the park is one of the top 10 smallest parks in the United States, it is always one of the top 10 most popular tourist attractions. It’s home to the tallest cliffs on the Atlantic Coast, Cadillac Mountain, where you can see the first rays of sunlight on the American mainland. There are more than 338 species of birds here, providing an extremely interesting and unique bird-watching experience. The national park campgrounds are reservation-only. There are private campgrounds; some you can drive into, and if they have a spot, you can have it. Others may require you to have a reservation of at least three nights. You will also need a parking pass to park anywhere in Acadia or drive the Loop Road. Make sure to make a reservation to drive to the summit of Mt Cadillac, or you can walk up for free on several trails. If you visit in the fall, you can also admire the breathtaking beauty of the foliage season. 2. Bar Harbor A calm harbour offers a serene haven for boats and ships. Photo by Wangkun Jia on Adobe Stock Bar Harbor is one of the best places to visit in Maine for nature lovers and those seeking some romantic escapes. It is the main entry point to Acadia National Park and a major port for cruise ships. You can hike, bike on the Carriage Road, climb, kayak, and watch wildlife, or take whale watching, boating, and puffin tours. If you visit in the fall, you will be treated to New England’s most beautiful foliage, which attracts photographers, hikers, and leaf-peepers every year. Although it is a small town, there is plenty to see and do. Bar Harbor has art galleries, live music, festivals, and historic architecture for those who want a more laid-back, relaxing experience. It is a favourite destination for couples or anyone looking for a cosy getaway. If you go with your family, make sure to check our essential beach packing list before the trip. 3. Portland One of the best places to visit in Maine, a city of therapeutic experience, Portland. Photo by Jo Ann Snover - stock.adobe.com Portland is a great place for cycling, coffee, art, beautiful scenery, and beer. You can visit large urban forests and beautiful gardens right in the city by driving or using public transportation. Besides sightseeing, you can also enjoy famous dishes here, such as gourmet donuts, biscuits, Southeast Asian food from Thailand and Vietnam, and smoked salmon. This city is also a heaven for vegetarians. Portland also has a serious coffee culture and one of the best craft beer scenes in the U.S., with more than 80 breweries and many annual beer-loving events. These events attract millions of visitors each year and are guaranteed to give you a unique travel experience in Maine. 4. Midcoast Midcoast, where the sea meets serenity. Photo by Natalia Bratslavsky - stock.adobe.com Midcoast offers a variety of activities, including hiking, boating, and scenic drives. Start your first day here with a vigorous hike at the Camden State Park. A more gentle hike to consider is Hamilton Audubon, which is just a 15-minute drive away. If you prefer a more laid-back experience, consider visiting the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. While not as popular as Bar Harbor or Portland, this place has a very relaxing atmosphere and is an ideal destination for a couple's or family vacation. The dining experience here is also very local, with many sustainable farms and farmers' markets. Midcoast also offers ocean conservation tours that appeal to eco-conscious travellers. If you don't need a flashy vacation and just want to connect with nature or get your creative juices flowing, this is one of the best places to visit in Maine. 5. Casco Bay Lost in the beauty of the ocean at Casco Bay. Photo by Enrico Della Pietra - stock.adobe.com Casco Bay is a popular destination for those who love the atmosphere by the sea. It’s near Portland, and you can get there easily by ferry. There are more than 200 small and medium-sized islands here, and the most famous ones all have a relaxing vibe. Many interesting sea activities are waiting for you at one of the best places to visit in Maine. You can experience a cruise, watch the sunset with your loved ones, go fishing, and most notably, stay on the mailboat run, where you ride along as mail and supplies are delivered to the islands. If you are passionate about history, you can also participate in shipbuilding and naval activities. Kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, biking, and wildlife watching are other interesting and popular activities when you come to Casco Bay. There aren’t as many tourists as in other locations, but it’s enough to attract and keep you entertained. 6. Camden A charming town invites exploration with its timeless appeal. Photo by alpegor - stock.adobe.com Camden is often described as “where the mountains meet the sea”, a place for you to admire panoramic views from Mount Battie. The region is a paradise for outdoor lovers with miles of hiking trails and a picturesque harbour for sailing and kayaking. In the winter, you can ski at Camden Snow Bowl, one of the only ski resorts where you can see the ocean while skiing. Camden is also known for being a quaint town with historic sailing ships, white-domed churches, quaint docks, and 19th-century homes that look like they were taken straight out of a postcard. There are also relaxing activities to help you unwind, such as visiting trendy boutiques or cosy cafes downtown. Camden is one of the best places to visit in Maine for those who need a getaway to slow down after all the hustle and bustle. 7. Old Orchard Beach At Old Orchard Beach, one of the best places to visit in Maine, time stands still as waves crash. Photo by Aitor - stock.adobe.com Old Orchard Beach is one of New England’s most popular beach destinations and is easily accessible by train from Boston, Portland, and beyond. The seven-mile shoreline makes it a great getaway for families and couples. You can enjoy a roller coaster ride or watch the sunset on the Ferris wheel at Palace Playland, one of the few remaining coastal amusement parks in the United States. Being a coastal town, seafood is a speciality here, most famously lobster in lobster rolls. There is also clam chowder and many other American staples served on the pier that extends 500 feet into the Atlantic Ocean, where you can enjoy delicious meals while taking in the breathtaking ocean views. 8. Standish Lost in the currents of serenity at Sebago Lake, Standish. Photo by photophil321 on Adobe Stock Standish is not as popular a tourist destination as Portland, but it’s still ideal for nature lovers, writers/artists looking for inspiration, or couples looking for a peaceful getaway. As one of the best places to visit in Maine, Standish is located along the shores of Sebago Lake, Maine’s second-largest lake. Besides swimming, boating, kayaking, and fishing, you can rent a cabin by the lake to camp and spend time with your loved one. Also, visit Wards Hill and White’s Bridge for hiking or bird watching if you want to explore more natural landscapes. Standish is an affordable destination and a transit point for tourists to Portland, Old Orchard Beach, and the White Mountains. If you visit in the summer and fall, you can experience apple picking, try homemade pies, maple syrup, and contemplate many different kinds of beautiful flowers on the farms. This small town doesn’t have the typical food as other places, but there are still some must-try dishes like whoopie pies, jams, and sweets. You can also enjoy lobster rolls made with extremely fresh ingredients here. 9. Boothbay Harbor One of the best places to visit in Maine for a peaceful escape. Photo by spiritofamerica on Adobe Stock Another place for those who like to take it slow. Boothbay Harbor is one of the most beautiful harbours in Maine. There’s a pedestrian bridge that crosses the harbour where you can take stunning photos or take a scenic stroll. Boothbay Harbor’s main attractions include whale-watching cruises, puffin tours, and lobster boats. Enjoy fresh lobsters at the pier while watching the fishing boats come and go. Boothbay also has a vibrant arts scene and quaint shops selling unique and interesting items like blueberry jam and sea glass jewellery. If you visit in the summer, you can also join Windjammer Days to watch fireworks, attend parades, and enjoy live music. Boothbay Harbor, as one of the best places to visit in Maine, will guarantee you a great time with various activities. 10. Kennebunkport Kennebunkport is one of the best places to visit in Maine that offers a refreshing escape from the everyday. Photo by Lewis Directed Films on Adobe Stock Kennebunkport has a slightly more upscale vibe than other locations, but it also offers a casual experience for couples or families looking for a quiet beach vacation. The beaches here are pristine, with plenty of activities like kayaking, biking, sailing, whale watching, and even horseback riding in the nearby areas. The food scene ranges from fine dining to casual, with a focus on seafood, with lobster rolls as a speciality, but there are also upscale farm-to-table restaurants. Kennebunkport also hosts arts and cultural events, such as galleries showcasing local artists. If you visit in the winter, you might be able to catch the Christmas Prelude, a festival that draws a large crowd in the winter. It's also a popular spot for engagements, so if you and your significant other are here, enjoy the atmosphere - you could be next. 11. Greenville A place that lives up to its name, Greenville. Photo by Craig Zerbe on Adobe Stock Greenville is known as a Dark Sky Haven with minimal light pollution and a paradise for stargazing and astrophotography. Stargaze at Moosehead Lake, one of the largest lakes in the Northeast, and enjoy the unique tranquillity of the area. If you visit in the fall, you’ll also be treated to spectacular foliage and wild moose. There are plenty of things to see and do: camp or enjoy interesting activities in nature, like hiking and ATV trails in the summer or snowmobiling and dog sledging in the winter. Greenville hosts an annual International Seaplane Fly-In every September, so if you’re an aviation enthusiast, this is the place for you. 12. Baxter State Park Baxter State Park is the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature. Photo by Jonathan - stock.adobe.com There are no paved roads inside. No electricity. No commercial establishments. No cell service. These are the things you will experience when you visit Baxter State Park. Home to Mount Katahdin, the tallest peak in Maine. Thanks to over 200 miles of trails, this is a dream hiking destination for many (be sure to pack safety devices, though). There are also many lakes, streams, and pristine forests where you can camp, but reservations are required and are limited. There is plenty of wildlife to see here, including black bears and moose, but you need to be quiet and respectful to see them. The fall foliage is beautiful, so it is a popular spot for photographers. Baxter State Park is one of the best places to visit in Maine for those who love to immerse themselves in nature and escape the hustle and bustle, but it’s not for everyone, as the trails can be challenging, so be prepared if you want to visit this place. 13. Marginal Way Explore the beauty of coastal living at Marginal Way. Photo by vermontalm on Adobe Stock Though Marginal Way doesn’t have as many attractions as the others, it has its own charm. It hugs the rugged shoreline for about 1.25 miles, so it’s easy to take the whole Atlantic Ocean in sight during a stroll. It’s a paved path, and benches are scattered along the route, so even if you’re travelling with your parents and young children, exploring this destination won’t be a problem. Marginal Way is quite close to Perkins Cove, a small fishing village with seafood restaurants, where you can grab an ice cream or lobster roll before or after the walk. There are also art galleries here for you to explore the deep history of this art colony. 14. Vinalhaven Vinalhaven is one of the best places to visit in Maine for authentic Maine island life. Photo by Neil - stock.adobe.com Vinalhaven is a secluded island town in Penobscot Bay and is known for its rugged coastline. Tourists come here mainly to escape crowded touristy spots and connect with raw nature. This place is not your typical tourist spot, however, that doesn’t mean there isn’t something to do here. There is an old granite quarry filled with crystal-clear water called Lawson’s Quarry, which is a favourite swimming spot for locals. You can also explore many natural areas, such as forests and bogs, and admire the marine and bird life. Vinalhaven is one of Maine’s busiest lobstering communities, so you can come and learn about lobster fishing techniques or simply enjoy the everyday life of the locals. While it’s busiest in summer, you can still visit in the fall or late spring for its tranquillity. 15. Rockland Breathe in the ocean breeze and soak in the city's charm at Rockland. Photo by dbvirago on Adobe Stock Rockland is often called the “Lobster Capital of the World” and hosts the Maine Lobster Festival every August. In addition to lobster, Rockland also offers farm-to-table eateries and artisan bakeries to cater to a wide range of visitors. The highlight of the area is the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, which sits at the end of a unique 7/8-mile granite breakwater. Walk around and enjoy the view, and take beautiful photos with the ocean as a backdrop to share with your friends. Or if you’re up for a long walk, hike the panoramic views from nearby Mount Battie. Rockland, in particular, has a surprisingly artistic vibe with galleries and studios scattered throughout downtown for those who love exploring art or want a more relaxing visit. It’s a small city, and Rockland is still one of the best places to visit in Maine that can cater to anyone’s preference. 16. York One of the best places to visit in Maine in the Fall. Photo by JackBulmer on Adobe Stock York is one of the oldest towns in the United States, with many beautiful and popular beaches for swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and hiking. If you are travelling with your family, you can also swim in the tide pools with soft sand, which is quite safe and suitable for children to play in. In addition to the beaches, there is York’s Wild Kingdom, a zoo and amusement park, arcades, saltwater taffy shops, and fun seaside attractions that are sure to please the little ones. You can also admire other sights, such as Nubble Lighthouse, one of the most photographed lighthouses in the United States and an icon of Maine’s rugged coastline. York Village has many well-preserved buildings from the 1700s, so it has a distinctly nostalgic atmosphere and is suitable for anyone who wants to experience a slower-paced vacation. If you come in the fall, York is one of the best places to visit in Maine to watch the foliage. 17. Ogunquit Come to Ogunquit to “sea” the day and explore the city. Photo by Keith J Sfinx on Adobe Stock Ogunquit Beach is consistently ranked as one of the best beaches in the U.S, as it stretches over 3.5 miles of soft, white sand. Many come here to swim or sunbathe and enjoy that gentle, warm inlet to float and unwind. It's home to the Marginal Way that connects Ogunquit Beach to Perkins Cove, a charming little harbour that offers boat tours for visitors to explore lobster boat excursions and sailing trips. Ogunquit is quite a walkable town, so it's really easy to explore on foot or via trolley. There are numerous cosy B&Bs, cute cafes, exhibits, and local galleries to discover. For a small town, it can still satisfy any food enthusiast with the fresh-off-the-boat lobster and classic clam chowder. You can enjoy your meal while contemplating the beauty of the ocean or the river. As a coastal tourist attraction, summer is its peak season, but fall brings gorgeous foliage and a quieter charm. If you want a peaceful retreat, then come here in spring and early winter. 18. Scarborough Scarborough, one of the best places to visit in Maine to enjoy the quiet beauty of a small town. Photo by Enrico Della Pietra on Adobe Stock As a coastal town, Scarborough has many of the same attractions as the areas we mentioned above. Make sure to visit Pine Point Beach and Scarborough Beach State Park, which are particularly popular for their clear water and golden sand. An ideal place for swimming and sunbathing. These two beaches are also less crowded, so they have a more relaxed feel. You can also see and learn about over 200 species of birds at the Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center, the largest salt marsh in Maine. Scarborough is best suited for those who enjoy a small-town feel and want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. 19. Wells Finding solace in the simplicity of nature at Wells. Photo by JackBulmer - stock.adobe.com If you love Scarborough, you’ll love Wells. The beaches here are wide, sandy, with clear water, and sparsely populated, so you and your family or loved ones can swim, sunbathe, or take a peaceful stroll. Hike through the marshes and forests, take photos and birdwatch, or enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking, biking, or stand-up paddleboarding. Wells is known for its lobster rolls and fresh local seafood, but visitors often visit Congdon’s Doughnuts, a popular destination with both locals and tourists. The area is also close to Ogunquit, Kennebunkport, and York, making it a great stopover to visit those places on a budget and with fewer crowds. The Amtrak Downeaster stops in Wells, so it can be a convenient stopover if you’re planning on visiting Boston or Portland. 20. Rangeley Rangeley, where time slows down. Photo by Craig Zerbe on Adobe Stock Rangeley is a charming small mountain town with many outstanding natural landscapes, especially Rangeley Lake and the Height of Land. There are many fun activities to enjoy all year round, such as fishing, hiking, canoeing & kayaking in the summer and fall, or skiing and snowmobiling in the winter. You will also see many wildlife species such as moose, eagles, deer, loons, and black bears. Rangeley is not overly commercialised, so it still retains its classic “Maine woods” charm and is the perfect place for those seeking a digital detox or a slower pace of life. This is one of the best places to visit in Maine if you want beautiful photos to upload to social media. 21. Gorham Discovering the hidden gems of Gorham. Photo by kellyvandellen on Adobe Stock Just 20-25 minutes from downtown Portland, Gorham is one of the best places to visit in Maine for those looking for a relaxing, community-focused experience. People often come here to experience the tranquillity and authenticity of rural Maine life with local produce and handmade crafts. There’s also an option to visit a nearby farm for fruit picking, corn mazes, horse-drawn carriage rides, and more. 22. Curtis Island Curtis Island, a place to melt away your worries. Photo by Jorge Moro on Adobe Stock Curtis Island is not a tourist attraction, but rather a place that welcomes quiet appreciation. There is not much to do here like other tourist destinations; however, the island offers a quiet getaway. An unmissable thing to do in Maine is the Curtis Island Lighthouse, a major visual attraction set against the backdrop of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay. Although it’s not accessible to the public, you can still see it via boat tours or sit on Mount Battie or the Camden waterfront to admire it. Curtis Island is accessible by private boat or kayak, and there are picnic spots to rest and enjoy the view. This is one of the best places to visit in Maine for many artists and writers, and has been featured in many art publications. 23. Grafton Notch State Park Grafton Notch helps you breathe in the fresh air and exhale all your worries. Photo by Craig Zerbe on Adobe Stock A popular park in Maine and a hiking paradise, Grafton Notch State Park. Part of the famous Appalachian Trail, it offers both casual hikes and strenuous climbs It has a notch (U-shaped valley) that will take your breath away in the fall when the foliage transforms the area into a painter’s dream. You’ll also be treated to majestic waterfalls like Screw Auger Falls, a must-see that drops 23 feet off a granite ledge. In contrast to Acadia, Grafton Notch has a more laid-back vibe, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot wildlife like moose or black bears. There’s a campground right next door called Grafton Notch Campground or local cabins, so if you’re looking for a longer hike or stargazing, be sure to book in advance. Are You Ready to Explore Maine? With over 20 destinations that Cabin Zero has compiled, are you ready to hit the road and explore Maine? Most of the destinations are inspired by nature, from mountains to the ocean, so make sure to pack the essentials and don’t forget a sturdy, water-resistant backpack suitable for your nature explorations. Follow Cabin Zero on social media to stay up to date with the latest and greatest travel information from the experts and make your next trip a memorable experience. Ky Duyen