Is Maine Worth Visiting? Your Ultimate Travel Guide (2025)

Golden hour in Bar Harbor, Maine

Is Maine Worth Visiting?

You bet it is! If you’ve never been to Maine before, but are thinking of visiting, picture stunning natural beauty, abundant outdoor adventures, mouthwatering seafood, charming small towns, rich history, and diverse wildlife. This state has it all!

It’s no surprise Maine stands out as one of the top destinations in the United States.

Best Time to Visit Maine

The best time to visit Maine depends on your interests, but late spring and fall are typically considered the best times to plan your trip.

Fall, from September to October, is breathtaking, with forests drenched in red, orange, and gold. It’s perfect for leaf-gazing, scenic drives, and small-town seasonal festivals celebrating Maine’s culture and harvest.

While summer can be humid, it’s also the perfect time of year to indulge in Maine’s water activities, such as beach days, boating, and enjoying fresh seafood.

Winter, on the other hand, is a paradise for snow lovers. From late November to February, Maine’s ski resorts offer excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the serene, snow-covered landscapes.

Top Places to Visit in Maine: The Best Towns to Visit

Maine is home to a variety of charming towns and gorgeous natural destinations. Here are the top places to add to your Maine bucket list.

Portland

Maine’s largest city is known for its historic Old Port district, cobblestone streets, and thriving food scene. Visit the Portland Museum of Art, explore lighthouses like Portland Head Light, or take a ferry to the Casco Bay Islands for an exciting day trip.

Bar Harbor

A must-visit for nature lovers, Bar Harbor offers stunning ocean views, charming shops, and delicious seafood. This coastal town is the perfect base for exploring Acadia National Park, where you can hike, bike, or drive along the scenic Park Loop Road.

Kennebunkport

This picturesque seaside town is famous for its Dock Square boutiques, oceanfront mansions, and fresh seafood. Take a scenic drive along Ocean Avenue, relax on Goose Rocks Beach, or enjoy a lobster boat tour for a true Maine experience.

Camden 

Known as the “Jewel of the Coast,” Camden is the perfect spot for sailing, hiking, and enjoying breathtaking harbor views. Climb Mount Battie for a panoramic overlook of the bay, or set sail on a classic windjammer schooner.

Rangeley

If you’re looking for lakes, hiking, and a peaceful getaway, Rangeley is the perfect inland destination. This area is great for kayaking, fishing, moose spotting, and enjoying the fall foliage or winter snow sports.

Bethel

Nestled in the western mountains, Bethel is perfect for skiing, hiking, and outdoor recreation. In winter, head to Sunday River Ski Resort, one of New England’s best ski destinations. In summer, enjoy scenic hikes and waterfalls.

The Bold Coast

For those looking to escape the crowds, head to Downeast Maine and explore the Bold Coast, where you’ll find rugged cliffs, untouched beaches, and some of the best stargazing in the state. Hike the Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land for breathtaking oceanfront trails.

10 Best Things To Do In Maine

From hiking in the mountains to whale watching in the sea, these are the top activities to add to your Maine itinerary.

1. Explore Acadia National Park

Acadia is a diverse national park made up of coastline, mountains, lakes, and forests. This stunning 48,000 acres of nature is one of the main attractions of Maine. 

Whether you’re hiking scenic trails, kayaking in peaceful waters, or catching a stunning sunrise from Cadillac Mountain, Acadia offers endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

For a guided adventure, Island Time Ebike Rentals & Tours is the only company authorized to lead tours through the park. Their 22-mile guided e-bike tour along the historic Carriage Roads provides fascinating insights into the park’s unique terrain, rich history, and must-see landmarks.

2. Stroll the Historic Streets of Portland

Walking through Portland’s historic streets is like stepping back in time while also enjoying a vibrant, modern city. 

Start in the Old Port, where cobblestone streets, 19th-century brick buildings, and charming storefronts create a picturesque waterfront setting. Explore unique boutiques, cozy cafés, and award-winning seafood restaurants. 

Visit the Portland Observatory, the last remaining maritime signal tower in the U.S., for panoramic harbor views. Then visit the Wadsworth-Longfellow House, home to one of America’s most famous poets. 

Whether strolling along the waterfront or uncovering hidden gems, Portland’s historic charm makes every step a discovery.

3. Sail the Coast of Maine

Tap into your inner pirate and set sail along the coast of Maine for an unforgettable experience.

Hop aboard a classic windjammer schooner in Camden or Portland and glide across the sparkling Atlantic, feeling the salty breeze and gentle sway of the waves. Along the way, you might spot seals, dolphins, or even a bald eagle soaring overhead. 

Many sailing tours offer sunset cruises, creating a magical golden-hour experience. It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced sailor or a first-timer; exploring Maine by boat is the perfect way to soak in its coastal beauty.

4. Visit the Coastal Town of Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport is a coastal town known for its scenic beauty and charming New England vibes. 

When you arrive, start your adventure with a stroll through Dock Square where boutique shops, art galleries, and seafood restaurants line the streets. 

Then, take a scenic drive along Ocean Avenue, stopping at the iconic Walker’s Point, the summer retreat of the Bush family. 

Relax on Goose Rocks Beach, the perfect spot for a peaceful seaside escape. And for a unique experience, hop on a lobster boat tour and see how Maine’s famous lobsters are caught. 

5. Paddle Among the Islands of Casco Bay

Experience Casco Bay from the water either by kayak or paddleboard. 

There are plenty of rental companies in Portland that will lend you the equipment to glide through calm waters, weave between the Calendar Islands, and find secluded beaches, historic forts, and wildlife. 

Keep an eye out for harbor seals, ospreys, and even the occasional bald eagle. Stop at Peaks Island for a picnic or explore Little Diamond Island for a quiet retreat. 

Whether you’re paddling at sunrise for a golden glow or during sunset for a breathtaking view, this adventure provides a perfect mix of tranquility, nature, and exploration along Maine’s rugged coastline. 

6. Experience the Beauty of the Rangeley Lakes Region

Nestled in the western mountains of Maine, the Rangeley Lakes Region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. 

With six major lakes and countless streams, it’s perfect for kayaking, fishing, and boating in crystal-clear waters. 

Hikers can explore scenic trails like Height of Land, offering panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. 

This is a fantastic place to visit in the fall because the vibrant foliage transforms the landscape into a breathtaking masterpiece. Meanwhile, winter is perfect for snowmobiling, skiing, and cozy cabin retreats. 

7. Go On A Self-Guided Lighthouse Tour

Maine’s rugged coastline is dotted with over 60 historic lighthouses, and if you’ve got a car, you can drive up to most of them yourself.

Start at Portland Head Light, the state’s most iconic lighthouse, perched dramatically on rocky cliffs in Cape Elizabeth. After that, make sure to see the other four lighthouses in the Portland area before heading north to Pemaquid Point Light. Then continue to Marshall Point Light, made famous in Forrest Gump.

For a scenic coastal drive, visit Nubble Lighthouse in York and Bass Harbor Head Light in Acadia National Park.

8. Go Ice Fishing in Bangor

If you’re visiting Maine in the winter, try ice fishing in Bangor. Pushaw Lake and Hermon Pond are excellent for catching perch, bass, and trout. 

Bundle up, drill a hole, and drop a line while enjoying the peaceful, snow-covered scenery. 

Many locals set up heated ice shacks, turning the experience into a cozy gathering with warm drinks and great company. 

9. Discover Fort Scammel: Portland Harbor’s Only Fort to See Combat

History comes to life at Fort Scammel, the only fort in Portland Harbor that saw active combat. 

Located on House Island, this 19th-century coastal defense fort played a crucial role in protecting Maine’s shores. Originally built in 1808 as part of America’s harbor defense system, Fort Scammel saw action during the War of 1812, when British forces attempted to attack Portland. 

Today, visitors can explore its underground tunnels, towering granite walls, and abandoned gun emplacements. Accessible by boat, this hidden gem offers a unique blend of history, adventure, and stunning harbor views.

10. Go Whale Watching in Bar Harbor

Whale watching is a classic Maine activity that should definitely be added to your bucket list. 

The Gulf of Maine is home to several majestic whale species, including humpback, fin, and minke whales. 

On a guided boat tour, you’ll have the chance to witness these incredible marine mammals breaching, spouting, and diving right before your eyes. 

Many tours also feature knowledgeable naturalists who provide fascinating insights about the whales and other local marine life. Along the way, you may also spot seals, puffins, and porpoises. 

🐳 Read more: Best Whale Watching in New England: Five Top-Rated Tours (2024)

Photo credit: Tina McMahon, Cape Ann Whale Watch

Where To Stay In Maine

📍 Portland: The Press Hotel

As one of Maine’s most visited cities, you might want to stay in Portland. If so, I recommend staying at the Press Hotel. Housed in a former newspaper headquarters, it offers stylish rooms and easy access to local attractions. 

📍 Kennebunk: White Barn Inn

If you’re staying in the historical shipbuilding village of Kennebunk, then I recommend the White Barn Inn. The inn’s charming barn offers a cozy setting for dinner, while select rooms feature soaking tubs and fireplaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

📍 Cape Neddick: Cliff House

If your trip takes you to the southern tip of Maine, you may want to stay in the charming coastal town of Cape Neddick. If so, I recommend the Cliff House Resort. Here, you’ll find oceanfront luxury accommodations with stunning coastal views. 

Maine FAQs

Why do tourists visit Maine?

Maine offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Tourists visit Maine for its stunning natural landscapes, charming coastal towns, and world-famous seafood. This state is especially popular among “leaf peepers” seeking out the most colorful foliage in the fall.

What is the #1 attraction in Maine?

The #1 attraction in Maine is Acadia National Park. Located on Mount Desert Island, Acadia is one of the most visited national parks in the U.S. It’s known for its breathtaking coastal views, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife. 

Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the East Coast and part of the national park, is known for its stunning sunrises, while the Park Loop Road provides scenic drives with worthwhile stops at Jordan Pond, Sand Beach, and Thunder Hole.

What’s the best month to visit Maine?

The best month to visit Maine depends on your interests:

• September and October are best for fall foliage and you’ll find fewer crowds at main attractions.
• June, July, and August are ideal for beaches, hiking, and whale watching. This time of year, you’ll experience warm temperatures and lively coastal towns.
• December, January, and February are perfect for skiing, snowmobiling, and winter festivals in Maine’s mountain regions.

How many days do you need in Maine?

To experience the highlights, 5 to 7 days is ideal. A shorter 3- to 4-day trip can cover Portland, Acadia National Park, and coastal towns. But a full week allows time to explore inland lakes, the mountains, and hidden gems beyond the tourist hotspots.

Conclusion: Is Maine Worth Visiting in 2025?

Well, I hope you’re convinced! Maine is without a doubt worth visiting in 2025. 

Maine’s stunning landscapes, delicious food, outdoor adventures, and welcoming coastal towns make it a must-visit destination no matter what kind of traveler you are. 

Whether you’re catching a sunrise at Cadillac Mountain, sailing along the coast, or savoring a fresh lobster roll by the waterfront, Maine offers experiences that create lifelong memories. 

No matter what you plan to do on your trip, I hope you enjoy your time in Maine!

Read more:

• 37 Unique Things to Do in Portland, Maine
• 7 Fabulous Day Trips from Boston to Maine
• Best Time to Visit Ogunquit, Maine + 17 Fun Things to Do (2024)
• How long does fall last in New England?
• The 37 Best New England Day Trips by Season (2024)