Maine's Top Attractions: A Guide to the Best Places to Visit

Maine, the northernmost state in New England, is known for its quintessential coastal imagery: Windjammers, rocky shores, colorful fishing harbors, lighthouses, and dense forests. It's a place where moose roam the backwoods and the serene beauty of forest lakes captivates visitors. Maine lives up to its picturesque reputation, offering a treasure trove of sights from York to Quoddy Head, including snug harbors and miles of rugged coastline. For those seeking a mix of culture and nature, Maine's museums, gardens, historic sites, and outdoor activities provide an abundance of vacation options. To explore the state's diverse attractions, consider renting a car and use our list of the top attractions in Maine as your guide.

1. Acadia National Park & Mount Desert Island

Acadia National Park's rugged coastline encompasses a vast inland area of lakes, streams, and forests, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. The scenic Park Loop Road and the Island Explorer buses provide access to the park's main attractions. Over 100 miles of hiking trails cater to all skill levels, including paths leading to the summit of Cadillac Mountain. Don't miss the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and the dramatic Thunder Hole. For garden lovers, the Asticou Azalea Garden and Thuya Garden are must-visits. Accommodations are available near the park, with options for camping and picnicking.

Accommodation: Where to Stay near Acadia National Park

2. The Old Port and Portland Head Lighthouse

Portland's Old Port is a bustling harbor district with a rich history. Visitors can explore the narrow streets lined with historic buildings, shop for maritime souvenirs, and enjoy fresh seafood. The iconic Portland Head Lighthouse, a beacon of Casco Bay, offers stunning views and a museum detailing the evolution of lighthouse technology.

Address: 1000 Shore Road, Cape Elizabeth, Maine

Official site: www.portlandheadlight.com

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Portland

3. Marginal Way and Ogunquit Beaches

The Marginal Way offers a picturesque walk from Ogunquit Beach to Perkins Cove, with benches along the path for enjoying the coastal views. Ogunquit Beach is family-friendly, and the town's vibrant arts scene includes the Ogunquit Playhouse and the Ogunquit Museum of American Art.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Ogunquit

4. Pemaquid Point Light

Pemaquid Point Light, featured on the Maine quarter, is a historic lighthouse with a museum that celebrates the area's fishing heritage. Nearby, the Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site offers insights into the region's colonial past.

5. Old Orchard Beach

Old Orchard Beach is a classic beach resort with a pier, amusement park, and seven miles of clean, golden sand. Palace Playland offers traditional rides, and the beach is accessible by train.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Old Orchard Beach

6. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay feature a variety of themed gardens, walking trails, and a collection of regional sculpture. The visitor center hosts art exhibitions, and the gardens are a delight for all ages.

Address: 132 Botanical Gardens Drive, Boothbay, Maine

Official site: www.mainegardens.org

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Boothbay Harbor

7. Farnsworth Art Museum

The Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland is dedicated to artists associated with Maine, including three generations of Wyeths. The museum's collection spans from 19th-century landscape painters to maritime art.

Address: 6 Museum Street, Rockland, Maine

Official site: http://www.farnsworthmuseum.org

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Rockland

8. Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is a summer resort with a large boating harbor, offering cruises, whale watching, and island trips. The town is filled with seafood restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

Official site: https://www.boothbayharbor.com

9. Rockland

Rockland's historic downtown and harbor reflect its maritime past. Attractions include the Owl's Head Light, the Owl's Head Transportation Museum, and the Maine Windjammer Fleet.

10. Bar Harbor

Bar Harbor, a gateway to Acadia National Park, offers a charming downtown, oceanfront walks, and cultural attractions like the Abbe Museum and Tiffany stained-glass windows at St. Savior Episcopal Church.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Bar Harbor

11. Camden

Camden is known for its Windjammers, scenic harbor, and vibrant Main Street. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Mount Battie and Merryspring Nature Center.

12. Nubble Lighthouse (Cape Neddick Light)

Nubble Lighthouse is a picturesque and easily accessible lighthouse on Cape Neddick. It's a popular photography spot, especially during the holiday season when it's adorned with lights.

13. Maine Maritime Museum

The Maine Maritime Museum in Bath celebrates the state's maritime history with exhibits, a blacksmith shop, and a collection of Maine-built boats.

Address: 243 Washington Street, Bath, Maine

Official site: www.mainemaritimemuseum.org

14. West Quoddy Head & Lighthouse

West Quoddy Head is the easternmost point in the U.S., marked by a distinctive red-and-white lighthouse. The area offers hiking trails and opportunities for bird and whale watching.

Address: South Lubec Road, Lubec, Maine

Official site: https://westquoddy.com/the-lighthouse

15. Portland Museum of Art & Winslow Homer Studio

The Portland Museum of Art boasts a diverse collection, including works by Monet, Picasso, and Warhol. The Winslow Homer Studio is accessible through museum-organized tours.

Address: 7 Congress Square, Portland, Maine

Official site: http://www.portlandmuseum.org

16. Cruising the Maine Coast

Experience the Maine coast from the water with a variety of boat tours, including whale watching, puffin tours, lobster boat excursions, and Windjammer cruises.

Official site: https://sailmainecoast.com

17. Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a charming coastal town with historic homes, galleries, shops, and scenic walks. Nearby, the fishing village of Cape Porpoise and the Seashore Trolley Museum are worth visiting.

Official site: http://kennebunkport.org/

18. Monhegan Island

Monhegan Island, a historic artists' colony, offers rugged cliffs, art studios, and birdwatching. The island is accessible by ferry for day trips.

19. Victoria Mansion, Portland

Victoria Mansion is a well-preserved Italianate villa with original furnishings and ornate interiors, offering a glimpse into mid-Victorian life in Portland.

Official site: http://victoriamansion.org/

20. Bowdoin College Museum of Art

The Bowdoin College Museum of Art in Brunswick features a diverse collection, including ancient ceramics, Renaissance paintings, and modern furniture.

Address: 245 Maine Street, Brunswick, Maine

Official site: http://www.bowdoin.edu/art-museum/

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Brunswick

21. Wiscasset

Wiscasset, a picturesque town on Route 1, is known for its historic homes, art galleries, and antique shops. Highlights include the Nickels-Sortwell House and Castle Tucker.