The breathtaking state of Maine is a nature lover's wonderland that flourishes with scenic beauty year-round. Nestled in the New England region, Maine, known as the "Pine Tree State," is a picturesque paradise for tourists and residents alike. Its incredible Fall foliage envelopes the forests and neighboring wilderness and the surrounding coastal seaside. This majestic northernmost state offers plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy by yourself or with friends and family while taking in the sights and scenery. Whether you choose to traverse the deep secluded woods or shop and eat your way through the small towns or unwind on the coastal shores of one of the seaside cities, Maine is the perfect spot to relax and embrace your inner peace of mind.
The Great Outdoors
One of the major draws for locals and visitors alike is the chance to escape into the wilderness for a getaway and become one with the natural surroundings of the countryside within Maine. Nurture your need for nature by venturing into any nearby parks, mountains, or hiking trails to get your fill of the lush landscape and the tranquil atmosphere of the great outdoors. Choose from any number of open-air activities to assist you on your way to a beautiful day.
Acadia National Park - Packed to the brim with dense forests, rocky mountains, and jagged coastal views of the beaches below, Acadia is one of the most visited national parks in the country. With over 150 miles of hiking trails at your disposal, Acadia has plenty of options available for novice and experienced hikers alike, such as the Beehive Loop or the South Ridge trails. After a day of hiking, biking, or kayaking, and you plan on camping overnight, be sure to look towards the skies for some of the most stellar stargazing around.
Baxter State Park - If you'd like to avoid the crowds of Acadia, Baxter State Park offers a gorgeous outlook of Maine that you won't be able to see anywhere else. Beautiful trails abound throughout the park, where you can encounter assorted wildlife such as deer and moose. If you feel adventurous and are well prepared, be sure to hike Maine's tallest mountain, Mount Katahdin, for an astonishing view of the world below.
Sugarloaf Mountain - Depending on the season, Sugarloaf Mountain gives travelers a run for their money in sheer beauty. There is plenty of hiking, biking, and even zip lining for the courageous visitors to experience in the spring and summer. Sugarloaf Mountain is also a snow lover's paradise in winter that offers skiers premier breathtaking above-treeline skiing.
Seaside Adventures
There's nothing like the smell of the crisp salt air to reinvigorate your love for a coastal trek near the open sea. Once you've tackled the glorious greenery of the inland parks, it's time to set your sights on a beachside adventure. Depending on your thoughts for a day trip, Maine has many different locations by the water. You can be aquatically active or unwind and relax while enjoying some of the freshest seafood around town.
Bar Harbor - This Mount Desert Island town is the perfect escape for travelers that choose to walk along Frenchman Bay while taking in the quaint charms of the picturesque neighborhoods. If it's the right time of the season, be sure to book a trip for a whale watching tour in hopes of seeing these majestic mammals swimming in the open seas. End your day by peering out towards the craggy coastlines while enjoying some of Maine's specialty, a delicious lobster meal, with some good friends.
Kennebunkport - No trip to Maine would be complete without stopping by the beach community of Kennebunkport. Visit Goose Rocks beach to get your fair share of sailing, sunbathing, or fishing. Or perhaps walk around Dock Square, where you'll find this charming destination has a wide assortment of shops and restaurants to tickle your fancy.
Ogunquit - Huddled around an assortment of boats, you'll find the delightful beach town of Ogunquit. Spend the day soaking up the sun and swimming in the waters of the sheltered Footbridge Beach. Then make your way to the Ogunquit Museum of American Art to see its outstanding collection of exhibits that celebrates American art.
Monhegan Island - You'll have to take a boat to reach this lovely little island retreat, but it is well worth it. A tiny charismatic village awaits you with an assortment of whimsical shops and restaurants to choose from as you observe the stoic lighthouse off in the distance. Choose a cliffside trail to hike along the island for some wave crashing views.
Cape Elizabeth - The old-fashioned coastal town of Cape Elizabeth is a postcard-perfect picture of beautiful beaches and rolling hills. Take a walk through Fort Williams Park to take in the magnificence of the oldest lighthouse in Maine, the Portland Head Light. After that, head over to Crescent Beach State Park and have a picnic by the grassy dunes.
A Few More Fun Spots
Are you still wanting more? There is always something exciting and new around the corner when exploring the beautiful state of Maine. Check out these areas for some entertaining prospects with your loved ones.
Portland - Maine's largest city has plenty to offer with its fair share of food, art, and entertainment spread out through the Eastern Promenade waterfront park. Be sure to take a stroll through the Portland Museum of Art to see some stunning works of art. Also, visit the cobblestoned neighborhood of Old Port as you make your way to the wharf for a taste of life during the 19th-century.
Allagash Brewery - While in Portland, take a tour of this outstanding brewery and grab a few pints of the best Belgium-inspired beer in the world. Their signature Allagash White wheat beer will have you coming back time and time again.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens - Behold the beauty of these lavish gardens, which contains an endless supply of stunning flowers and plantlife. Each colorful exhibit is sure to enthrall visitors with its exquisite artistry.