The Ultimate Guide to the Best Things to Do in Maine

By jhenr | Updated October 26th, 2022

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Maine’s gorgeous coastlines, vibrant cities, and charming rural countryside make it the perfect destination for a quick trip or an extended stay. But with so much variety in this state, it can be hard to know where to begin when planning your vacation. Fear not—we’ve got you covered with our guide to the best things to do in Maine. From sandy white beaches to snow-covered mountains and everything in between, here are 15 things you can do in Maine today!

Acadia National Park

Bass Harbor Lighthouse at sunset, in Acadia National Park, Maine.

This national park is so vast that it’s broken up into five sections, each with a unique character. The most popular section of Acadia is Bar Harbor, where you’ll find plenty of shops, restaurants, and hotels to explore. Be sure not to miss Cadillac Mountain (the first place in America that can be touched by sunrise) or Otter Cliff (one of the tallest sea cliffs on Earth).

Portland, ME

Cape Elizabeth, Maine, USA at Portland Head Light.

Portland is a charming coastal city with a rich history and abundant natural beauty. From its quaint downtown area to its many state parks and rugged coastline, Portland is a great place to explore and experience the best of New England.

Whether you’re a nature lover looking for scenic hiking trails or an avid foodie eager to sample delicious local seafood, Portland has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning to stay for an extended trip, Portland is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So if you’re looking for a unique and exciting destination, look no further than Portland.

Bar Harbor, ME

Aerial view of Bar Harbor, Maine. Bar Harbor is a town on Mount Desert Island in Hancock County, Maine, and a popular tourist destination.

Bar Harbor is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Maine and is a perfect vacation spot for those looking to get away from it all. With its beautiful scenery and friendly people, it is no surprise that Bar Harbor attracts thousands of visitors each year.

From kayaking on the calm waters of Frenchman’s Bay or hiking up Cadillac Mountain, there are countless ways to enjoy your time here.

Boothbay Harbor, ME

BOOTHBAY HARBOR, ME –8 AUG 2020- View of Boothbay Harbor, a tourist fishing town in Lincoln County, Maine, United States.

Boothbay Harbor is a small fishing village located on a bay of the same name. It’s home to one of America’s oldest lighthouses and some beautiful coastlines. There are plenty of great activities here, so get ready for anything from kayaking to whale watching!

Whale Watching Cruise

BAR HARBOR, MAINE – September 14, 2014: Bar Harbor, on the coast of Maine, has a population of only 5,000 but cruise ships bring in 250,000 tourists a year for whale watching and boating.

Maine is a great place for whale watching. This is an experience that you will never forget. If you want, you can even take a cruise out on the water where whales are spotted more often. This will be one of the most memorable things that you’ll ever do.

Cape Elizabeth and the Portland Head Light

Cape Elizabeth, Maine, USA at Portland Head Light.

Cape Elizabeth is a beautiful coastal town in Maine, boasting stunning views of the rugged Atlantic coastline. Among Cape Elizabeth’s most iconic landmarks is the Portland Head Light, a lighthouse that has stood watch over the seas for hundreds of years.

With its gleaming white tower and brilliant red roof, the Portland Head Light is easily one of the most recognizable landmarks in Cape Elizabeth, and it attracts visitors from all over the world.

Not only does it serve as a historic reminder of Cape Elizabeth’s long maritime history, but it also offers stunning views of the ocean that are unmatched anywhere else on the coast.

Whether you’re an experienced sailor or simply looking for a day trip near Portland, Cape Elizabeth, and its iconic Portland Head Light are truly something special. So if you’re looking for spectacular beaches and stunning views, look no further than Cape Elizabeth and its awe-inspiring lighthouse!

Marginal Way

Otter Cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean in Acadia National Park, Maine.

Marginal Way is a beautiful and tranquil pathway that winds along the scenic cliffs of Maine. Meandering along the rocky coastline, Marginal Way offers stunning views of the rugged coastline, dotted with tall pine trees and bright wildflowers. The path itself is well-maintained, with smooth surfaces and gentle inclines.

A popular destination for tourists and locals alike, Marginal Way provides a perfect spot for relaxing walks, peaceful picnics, or tranquil meditations. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from your busy city life or just longing to reconnect with nature, Marginal Way is sure to delight you. So why not visit Marginal Way today? You won’t regret it.

Kennebunkport

Nice view of the small harbour in the village of Kennebunkport, Maine, USA

A quintessential New England coastal town, Kennebunkport is a great place for visitors looking for a slower-paced, seaside escape. The population is only 2,300 people but it has an abundance of both tourist attractions and local businesses that make it feel like a small town.

Monhegan Island

Main Street, remote Monhegan Island, Maine.

Maine is home to many islands, but Monhegan may be one of the best. To get there, you have to take a ferry out of Port Clyde or Rockland and then a smaller boat from there. Monhegan is known for its rugged coastline, dramatic cliffs, and wildlife. In the summer you can swim at Smugglers Cove or hike some of its beautiful trails. The island also has some great restaurants and shops that will make you want to stay forever!

Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach, Maine, USA. 07-12-2021. The light of the sunset and amusement park reflect from the wet sand at low tide at Old Orchard Beach.

If you’re looking for a sandy beach with plenty of activities, look no further than Old Orchard Beach. With a boardwalk lined with shots there are restaurants, this town is an excellent place to spend some time. The nearby amusement park offers rides and games, there’s lots of shopping at the Old Orchard Marketplace, and one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Maine can be found here too.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve found these recommendations helpful! We’d love to hear from you if you have any other suggestions for things we should add. We’ll be updating this list periodically, so be sure to check back soon.