Maine Travel Guide

Discover the best destinations, activities, and tips for traveling to Maine, USA with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Maine

Maine, also known as the “Pine Tree State,” is a charming destination in the northeast region of the United States. With its rugged coastline, quaint towns, and breathtaking natural beauty, Maine offers travelers a unique mix of culture and outdoor adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Maine

When planning a trip to Maine, there’s no shortage of great places to visit. Here are some of the most popular destinations:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Portland Museum of Art
  • Maine Maritime Museum
  • Maine State Museum
  • Wadsworth-Longfellow House
  • Victoria Mansion
  • Fort Knox State Historic Site

Natural Attractions of Maine: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Acadia National Park
  • Baxter State Park
  • Mount Katahdin
  • Gulf Hagas
  • Moosehead Lake
  • Kennebunkport

Hiking/Biking Routes of Maine

Maine is known for its incredible hiking and biking routes. Some of the most popular include:

  • Acadia National Park’s Jordan Pond Path
  • The Sunrise Ridge Trail at Baxter State Park
  • The carriage roads in Acadia National Park
  • The Eastern Trail in Scarborough

Best Things to Do in Maine: Activities and Tours

From whale-watching tours to coastal drives, there’s no shortage of things to do in Maine. Some must-try activities and tours include:

  • Whale-watching tours
  • Lobster boat tours
  • Coastal drives
  • Bar Harbor Food Tours
  • Kayaking in Acadia National Park

Week-Long Itinerary for Maine

If you have a week to spend in Maine, here’s an itinerary to consider:

Day 1-3: Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park Day 4: Portland Day 5: Kennebunkport Day 6-7: Boothbay Harbor

Food and Drink Scene of Maine

No trip to Maine is complete without sampling some local dishes and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll
  • Clam Chowder
  • Blueberry Pie
  • Fried Clams
  • Whoopie Pie

Local Beverages

  • Maine Beer
  • Moxie (a distinctly flavored soda)
  • Allen’s Coffee Brandy
  • Shipyard Brewing Company Beer

Where to Stay in Maine: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, Maine has something for everyone. Here are some great places to stay:

  • The Inn at Little Washington
  • The White Barn Inn & Spa
  • The Westin Portland Harborview
  • The Press Hotel, Autograph Collection
  • Fort Knox Inn

What to Buy in Maine: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Maine, be sure to bring home some locally made products as souvenirs. Some great options include:

  • Blueberry Jam
  • Lobster Rope Rugs
  • Sea Glass Jewelry
  • Stonewall Kitchen Products
  • Maple Syrup

Local Culture and Customs of Maine

Maine is known for its down-to-earth, friendly culture. However, there are a few customs to be aware of, such as using “Mainer” instead of “Maine-iac,” and not expecting things to move too fast. Maine is all about taking things at a slow and steady pace.

Best Time to Visit Maine

The best time to visit Maine is during the fall, when the leaves are changing colors and the landscapes are breathtakingly beautiful. However, Maine is an all-season destination, so there’s never a wrong time to visit.

Do’s and Don’ts of Maine

Do:

  • Take your time and enjoy the slower pace of life.
  • Explore the great outdoors.
  • Eat lobster and local seafood.
  • Visit charming coastal towns and historic landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Over-plan your trip.
  • Ignore weather reports – be prepared for sudden changes in temperature and weather.
  • Expect city-like amenities in small towns.

Safety and Health

Safety in Maine

Maine is a generally safe destination for travelers. However, be aware of the following:

  • Wildlife encounters (especially moose and bears)
  • Dangerous currents in coastal waters
  • Slippery surfaces on hiking trails

Health in Maine

Maine has quality healthcare facilities, and there are no major health risks for travelers.

Getting to Maine: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Maine

  • Portland International Jetport
  • Bangor International Airport
  • Augusta State Airport
  • Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport

Bus Stations Near Maine

  • Concord Coach Lines
  • Greyhound

Other Options

  • Amtrak Downeaster
  • Car Rental

How to Get Around in Maine

The best way to get around Maine is by car, as the state has many scenic drives. However, public transportation options are available in larger cities.

Where to Go Next from Maine: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you have some extra time to explore, here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • White Mountains National Forest, New Hampshire
  • Montpelier, Vermont
  • Boston, Massachusetts
  • Saint John, New Brunswick

Conclusion

Maine is a unique and beautiful destination that offers visitors a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural charm. From hiking and biking to enjoying delicious seafood, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Maine.

Portland Head Lighthouse in Cape Elizabeth Portland Head Lighthouse in Cape Elizabeth U.S. Route 2 in Maine: On many roads in the state, you will see small-town views like this U.S. Route 2 in Maine: On many roads in the state, you will see small-town views like this Some buildings in Downtown Portland, Maine's only (relatively) big city Some buildings in Downtown Portland, Maine's only (relatively) big city Indian summer foliage in Cumberland Foreside, near Yarmouth Indian summer foliage in Cumberland Foreside, near Yarmouth A good day for sailing along the coast A good day for sailing along the coast Mount Chase, Highlands (Maine), at sunset Mount Chase, Highlands (Maine), at sunset Rocky coastline and forest, Acadia National Park Rocky coastline and forest, Acadia National Park


    Aroostook
    Down East
    Greater Portland
    Highlands
    Kennebec and Moose River Valleys
    Lakes and Mountains
    Mid Coast
    Southern Coast