Planning a trip can be overwhelming when you’re trying to balance nature, culture, and great food. Tourist traps feel overdone, but skipping key attractions isn’t ideal either. The challenge is finding a destination that offers stunning landscapes, rich history, and unforgettable local flavors—all in one trip.
That’s where Maine comes in. Rugged coastlines, charming small towns, fresh seafood, and a thriving arts scene make it a dream destination for travelers who want a little bit of everything. From outdoor adventures to cultural gems and iconic local dishes, Maine has plenty to offer. So, what exactly makes it stand out? What are best things about Maine?
Coastal Towns
Maine’s coastal towns have a charm that’s hard to top, especially in summer and fall. Stroll through Kennebunkport, and you’ll spot grand Gilded Age mansions once owned by ship captains and vacationing New Englanders, all set against a harbor full of bobbing sailboats. Over in Rockport, cozy cafés, boutique shops, and small eateries make wandering the streets a delight.
Then there’s Bar Harbor, packed with classic shops and restaurants that haven’t changed in decades. A walk down Main Street might lead you to Sherman’s, the state’s oldest bookstore, or to Ben & Bill’s for some homemade fudge or ice cream. In peak season, the town green buzzes with families and couples soaking in the stunning views of Frenchman’s Bay.
And let’s not forget Old Orchard Beach, a classic Maine summer destination. With its seven miles of sandy shoreline, lively pier, and old-school amusement park, it’s a favorite for families and anyone looking for a fun beachside escape. For a full guide on making the most of your visit, check out our blog “Old Orchard Beach: Top Things To Do in OOB Maine.” Whether you’re after classic seaside fun or hidden gems, this list covers the best things to do in Maine for an unforgettable trip.
Iconic Lighthouses
Ask anyone to picture Maine, and chances are a lighthouse will pop into their mind. These coastal towers have been guiding ships for centuries, protecting them from rocky shores and unpredictable waters. While modern navigation has taken over, many of Maine’s historic lighthouses remain beautifully preserved and open to visitors.
One of the most famous is Portland Head Light in Fort Williams State Park. Just a short drive from downtown Portland, this stunning spot is perfect for a scenic stroll. It’s also the most photographed lighthouse in the U.S.—and once you see it, you’ll understand why.
Further up the coast in Rockland, Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse offers a unique experience. Sitting at the end of a long granite breakwater, it’s surrounded by the rolling waves of the Atlantic. The walk-out to it is an adventure on its own. While in town, don’t miss the Maine Lighthouse Museum, where you can dive into the rich history of these coastal sentinels. If you love ocean views, history, or just a great photo op, Maine’s lighthouses are well worth the visit.
If you love ocean views, history, or just a great photo op, Maine lighthouses are well worth the visit. To explore some of the best lighthouses in the state and plan your next coastal adventure, check out this guide “10 Best Lighthouses in Maine Worth Visiting.”
Craft Beer
Maine’s craft beer scene is something special. Sure, there are over 10,000 craft breweries across the U.S., but Maine has carved out a spot that beer lovers can’t ignore. It all started in 1995 when Rob Tod founded Allagash Brewing Company in Portland—back when mass-produced lagers dominated the market.
Fast forward to today, and Allagash is a nationally recognized name, but it’s still a fantastic place to visit. Their brewery tours aren’t just a quick walk-through; the guides are true beer geeks who dive deep into the science of fermentation. This is just one of the many interesting things about Maine—a state that takes pride in its craft, from its legendary seafood to its thriving beer culture.
Allagash’s success helped spark a booming beer scene in Portland, with many top breweries setting up shop nearby in an area known as Industrial Way. On warm weekends, the place comes alive with food trucks selling everything from lobster rolls to sushi, while families, friends, and even a few dogs gather at picnic tables to enjoy the laid-back vibe.
If you’re exploring Portland’s beer scene, don’t stop at Allagash. Check out Bissell Brothers for craft beer paired with local cheeses and charcuterie, Austin Street Brewery, Lone Pine Brewing Company, and Oxbow Brewing. Oxbow even has a rustic brewing facility outside the city, but you can sample their blends and barrel-aged beers right in downtown Portland.
Fresh Farm-to-Table Cuisine
Portland, Maine, has quietly become one of the hottest food destinations in the U.S., and it all started in 1996 when Fore Street Restaurant put the city on the culinary map. Today, it’s packed with incredible restaurants, each showcasing Maine’s best ingredients in creative ways. If you’re visiting, come hungry—there’s a lot to try.
Kick off your day at Standard Baking Co., Fore Street’s own bakery, for a buttery croissant or one of their famous morning buns. Then, make your way to Holy Donut, where their potato-based doughnuts have reached legendary status. For lunch, sushi lovers should check out Pai Men Miyake or Mr. Tuna, known for the freshest sashimi in town. If you’re craving Italian, Via Vecchia serves up handmade pasta in a stylish, exposed-brick setting.
By late afternoon, Chaval is the spot for French- and Spanish-inspired small plates, and when it’s time for something truly indulgent, Duckfat is a must. Their double-fried Belgian fries—cooked in duck fat, of course—are crispy, flavorful, and perfect with truffle ketchup or horseradish mayo. If you’re up for it, go all in with the poutine, topped with cheese curds and duck gravy. Whatever you’re craving, Portland delivers. The hardest part? Deciding where to eat first.
Delicious Lobsters
Maine is known for many great foods, but let’s be real—it’s all about the lobster. The cold Atlantic waters produce lobsters with sweet, tender meat and big claws, making them one of the world’s most sought-after seafood delicacies. If you’re wondering what seafood is Maine known for, lobster definitely tops the list, but the state is also famous for its fresh clams, oysters, and scallops.
While Maine lobsters are shipped worldwide, there’s no better place to enjoy them than right at the source. The state’s lobster industry is also a rare sustainability success story—once so plentiful they were fed to prisoners, strict regulations have helped the population thrive.
For the best lobster experience, head to Rockland for its famous summer festival or visit Portland, where top chefs serve creative takes like Eventide Oyster Co.’s legendary brown butter lobster roll. Over in Bar Harbor, classic seafood spots like Stewman’s Lobster Pound offer full lobster dinners, while Galyn’s makes things easy with its buttery “lazy lobster.”
For an unforgettable lobster roll, Trenton Bridge Lobster Pound has been cooking fresh catches in seawater since 1956. Choose Maine-style (cold with mayo and celery) or Connecticut-style (warm with butter)—either way, you can’t go wrong!
Scenic Trails & Hiking Adventures
Maine is a dream for nature lovers, offering trails for every skill level. In Portland, Fort Williams State Park has great hiking spots, and a quick boat ride takes you to Mackworth Island for stunning Casco Bay views. The Eastern Promenade Trail is another easy coastal option.
For iconic hikes, Acadia National Park is a must. Bubble Rock offers a relaxed trek with panoramic views, while Beehive and Precipice Trail challenge seasoned hikers with steep climbs and iron rungs. Prefer a flat, scenic walk? Eagle Lake near Jordan Pond House has a peaceful trail with wooden walkways—perfect for spotting Maine’s state bird, the loon.
Looking for even more outdoor escapes? Check out this guide “10 Best Parks in Maine for Hiking and Scenic Views” to explore hidden gems, scenic picnic spots, and family-friendly trails across the state.
Golden Hues of Maine in Autumn
Maine’s natural beauty is impressive year-round, but fall is when it truly steals the show. The maple trees light up in fiery reds, the birch trees glow golden, and the whole landscape transforms into a breathtaking display. It’s no surprise that people travel from all over just to take in the autumn colors. With Maine’s vast forests and open spaces, there’s no shortage of spots to soak in the views.
Even with so many stunning places, Acadia National Park on Mount Desert Island stands out. No matter where you go in the park, the scenery is spectacular. By fall, Bar Harbor is quieter as the summer crowds thin out, making it an even better time to visit.
The days are crisp but pleasant, perfect for exploring. It’s also the ideal season to drive or take the park shuttle up Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the eastern seaboard, where you’ll get an unbeatable view of Maine’s autumn magic. If you’re looking for more incredible places to visit in Maine, check out “Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Maine” for our top recommendations.
Make Your Next Trip One to Maine
Maine is more than just a scenic getaway—it’s an experience packed with history, adventure, and incredible flavors. From its charming coastal towns and iconic lighthouses to world-class seafood and stunning fall foliage, there’s something for every kind of traveller. Outdoor lovers can explore Acadia National Park, paddle along pristine lakes, or hike rugged mountain trails. Foodies can savor fresh lobster rolls, wild blueberry treats, and craft brews from some of the best breweries in New England.
And history buffs can wander through historic villages and maritime museums that bring Maine’s rich past to life. Visiting Old Orchard Beach? Stay somewhere that lets you fully enjoy it! Seagrass Inn offers a welcoming, comfortable stay just steps from the sandy shoreline. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beachside retreat or an adventure-filled getaway. Bbook your stay and experience the best of Maine!
FAQs
What makes Maine unique?
Maine has a lot to offer, from its stunning coastlines and national parks to its rich history. Whether it’s grand mansions or iconic lighthouses, there’s no shortage of sights with stories to share. While many visitors immediately think of lobster when it comes to Maine’s food scene, there’s so much more to discover.
Is Maine expensive to visit?
Visiting Maine doesn’t have to be expensive. Enjoy the outdoors, landmarks, art, culture, and coastal charm—all without stretching your budget. Exploring Greater Portland lets you customise your trip to suit your interests and budget.
What are the 3 capitals of Maine?
Augusta was chosen as Maine’s capital in 1827, beating out Portland, Brunswick, and Hallowell. However, the Maine State Legislature kept meeting in Portland until 1832, when the Charles Bulfinch-designed Maine State House was completed.
Why do people vacation in Maine?
Maine is packed with outdoor adventures, parks, and activities the whole family will love. Enjoy a park day or visit the coast, where kids can splash in the ocean and play on the beach. It’s the perfect spot for a family getaway with something for everyone!
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