Welcome to Maine, where lobster rolls are a food group, lighthouses dot the coast like seaside sentinels, and Stephen King’s imagination runs wild! If you’re wondering about the best things to do in Maine, you’ve landed in the right place. From Acadia’s breathtaking peaks to Portland’s quirky charm, the Pine Tree State serves up adventure with a side of Down East hospitality. Whether you’re chasing sunrise from Cadillac Mountain or getting lost in coastal botanical gardens, Maine promises experiences that’ll stick with you longer than blueberry stains on your favorite shirt. So grab your hiking boots, pack your appetite, and let’s dive into this treasure trove of Maine magic!
1. Marginal Way: Ogunquit’s Scenic Coastal Walk
Marginal Way is Ogunquit’s crown jewel – a stunning 1.25-mile paved clifftop pathway that offers some of Maine’s most breathtaking ocean views without breaking a sweat or your budget.
This romantic walkway winds along dramatic granite cliffs, treating visitors to panoramic Atlantic vistas, charming pocket beaches, and Instagram-worthy shots of elegant seaside mansions. Strategically placed benches invite you to pause and soak in the salty air while waves crash dramatically below. The path connects Ogunquit Beach to Perkins Cove, making it perfect for combining multiple attractions in one delightful stroll.
- Time needed: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours (depending on photo stops)
- Perfect for: Couples, families, photographers, and anyone who enjoys easy scenic walks
- Cost: Completely free!
- Location: Shore Road, Ogunquit, ME
- Pro tip: Visit during golden hour for magical lighting, or early morning to avoid summer crowds
Whether you’re seeking romance, relaxation, or simply spectacular scenery, Marginal Way delivers Maine’s coastal magic in an easily accessible package that’ll leave you planning your next visit before you’ve even finished the walk.
2. Cadillac Mountain: First Light on the East Coast
Cadillac Mountain stands as the East Coast’s highest peak and your golden ticket to being the first person in the United States to witness sunrise – a bragging right that’s surprisingly addictive once you’ve experienced it.
Perched within Acadia National Park, this 1,530-foot summit offers breathtaking 360-degree views that stretch across the Atlantic Ocean, dotted islands, and Maine’s rugged coastline. The scenic 3.5-mile Summit Road makes reaching the top accessible for all fitness levels, though hiking the moderate trails adds extra satisfaction to your achievement.
Essential visitor information:
- Best visit time: 2-3 hours (arrive 30 minutes before sunrise for optimal experience)
- Perfect for: Couples, families with older kids, photography enthusiasts, and early birds
- Cost: $30 park entrance fee (valid for 7 days)
- Location: Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, Maine
- Pro tip: Check sunrise times and arrive early – parking fills up quickly during peak season (June-October)
Whether you’re chasing that magical first light or simply soaking in panoramic views, Cadillac Mountain delivers an unforgettable Maine moment that’ll have you setting multiple alarms without complaint.
3. Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is Maine’s crown jewel and America’s first national park east of the Mississippi, offering an irresistible blend of rugged coastline, pristine lakes, and granite peaks that’ll make your Instagram followers weep with envy. This 47,000-acre wonderland serves up challenging hiking trails through diverse terrains, scenic drives to iconic Cadillac Mountain (where you can catch the first sunrise in the US), and serene beaches perfect for tide pooling adventures.
Whether you’re conquering the Precipice Trail’s iron rungs or leisurely cruising the 27-mile Park Loop Road, Acadia delivers breathtaking panoramic vistas at every turn. The park’s diverse ecosystems range from dense forests to rocky shores, making it a photographer’s paradise and nature lover’s dream.
- Ideal visit duration: 2-4 days
- Perfect for: Families, couples, adventure seekers, and photographers
- Entry fee: $30 per vehicle (7 days) or $55 annual pass
- Location: Bar Harbor, ME 04609
- Pro tip: Visit in early fall for stunning foliage and fewer crowds, or arrive at Cadillac Mountain before 5:30 AM for that epic sunrise without the tourist parade
Acadia National Park isn’t just a destination—it’s a soul-stirring experience that proves Mother Nature is the ultimate artist, and you’re getting front-row seats to her masterpiece.
4. Portland Head Light: Maine’s Most Photogenic Lighthouse
Standing proudly on Cape Elizabeth’s rocky cliffs since 1791, Portland Head Light isn’t just Maine’s oldest lighthouse—it’s arguably the most Instagram-worthy spot in the entire state, offering visitors a perfect blend of maritime history and jaw-dropping ocean views.
This iconic beacon sits within Fort Williams Park, where you can explore scenic walking trails, enjoy waterfront picnics, and browse the fascinating lighthouse museum housed in the former keeper’s quarters. The panoramic views of Casco Bay are absolutely spectacular, especially during golden hour when the lighthouse glows against the dramatic coastline.
Perfect for families, couples, and photography enthusiasts, this destination offers something for everyone. Plan to spend 2-3 hours here to fully enjoy the trails and museum. Park admission is free, though the museum charges a modest $2 fee. Located at 1000 Shore Road in Cape Elizabeth, it’s just 10 minutes from downtown Portland. Pro tip: arrive early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds—plus you’ll catch those magical sunrise or sunset shots.
Whether you’re a lighthouse lover or just seeking that quintessential Maine moment, Portland Head Light delivers postcard-perfect memories that’ll make your friends back home seriously jealous.
5. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is a stunning 295-acre horticultural paradise that transforms a simple garden visit into an enchanting journey through Maine’s natural beauty. This isn’t your grandmother’s rose garden – it’s a living masterpiece where art meets nature in the most Instagram-worthy way possible.
Wander through themed landscapes that range from whimsical fairy houses in the children’s garden to sophisticated sculpture installations scattered throughout the grounds. The interactive children’s areas will keep little explorers busy while adults can find zen in the tranquil meditation spots overlooking the Sheepscot River. Educational exhibits add a dash of learning to your leisurely stroll, making this spot perfect for curious minds of all ages.
- Time needed: 2-3 hours for a leisurely visit
- Perfect for: Families with kids, couples seeking romance, nature photographers, and anyone needing a peaceful escape
- Admission: Around $18-20 for adults, children often free
- Location: 132 Botanical Gardens Drive, Boothbay, ME
- Pro tip: Visit during late spring or early fall for the best blooms and fewer crowds – plus, the morning light is absolutely magical for photos
This botanical wonderland proves that Maine’s beauty extends far beyond its famous lobster rolls and lighthouses.
6. Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse
The Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse is Maine’s most photographed beacon, perched dramatically on a rocky island and connected to the mainland by a charming footbridge that makes you feel like you’re walking into a postcard. This 1879 lighthouse isn’t just a pretty face – it’s surrounded by fascinating tide pools perfect for amateur marine biologists and Instagram influencers alike.
During low tide, you can explore the rocky coastline and discover sea anemones, crabs, and other coastal treasures hiding in the pools. The surrounding Sohier Park offers perfect picnic spots with million-dollar ocean views, and the lighthouse grounds provide endless photography opportunities, especially during golden hour when the white tower glows against the dramatic Maine sky.
- Visit Duration: 1-2 hours
- Perfect For: Families, couples, photography enthusiasts, and anyone seeking classic Maine charm
- Cost: Free (parking may require small fee during peak season)
- Location: Nubble Road, York Beach, Maine
- Pro Tip: Visit 1-2 hours before sunset for the best lighting and smaller crowds, and check tide schedules for optimal tide pool exploration
Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse delivers that quintessential Maine experience where rugged natural beauty meets maritime history – it’s the kind of place that makes you understand why people fall in love with New England’s coast.
7. Ogunquit Beach: Where Surf Meets Sand (and Your Vacation Dreams Come True)
Ogunquit Beach is Maine’s answer to “What if a beach could do it all?” – a stunning stretch of white sand where you can catch waves on one side and float peacefully on the other, making it the perfect spot for families who can’t agree on water activities.
This gem offers the best of both worlds with designated surf and swim areas, so wave riders and peaceful paddlers can coexist without drama. The scenic Marginal Way cliff walk provides Instagram-worthy views, while local amenities keep you fed and caffeinated between beach sessions.
- Ideal visit time: 2-4 hours (or all day if you’re living your best beach life)
- Perfect for: Families, couples, solo travelers, and anyone who appreciates good vibes
- Cost: Free beach access (parking fees may apply)
- Location: Ogunquit, Maine along Route 1
- Pro tip: Arrive early morning or late afternoon to dodge crowds and catch the most flattering light for photos
Ogunquit Beach proves that sometimes the best things in life really are free – except maybe the lobster roll you’ll inevitably crave afterward.
8. Park Loop Road: Maine’s Most Scenic Drive
Park Loop Road is Acadia National Park’s crown jewel – a breathtaking 27-mile scenic drive that showcases Maine’s rugged coastline and natural beauty in all its glory. This isn’t just a drive; it’s a front-row seat to some of New England’s most spectacular landscapes.
Wind through pristine forests, dramatic granite cliffs, and pristine beaches as you make strategic stops at iconic spots like Sand Beach (perfect for a chilly dip if you’re brave), Thunder Hole (where waves crash with spectacular fury), and Cadillac Mountain (offering sunrise views that’ll make your Instagram followers weep with envy). Multiple hiking trail access points let you stretch your legs and dive deeper into Acadia’s wilderness.
Essential visitor info:
- Time needed: 2-4 hours (longer if you’re a stop-and-smell-the-roses type)
- Perfect for: Families, couples, photographers, and anyone who appreciates natural beauty
- Cost: $30 vehicle entrance fee for 7-day Acadia National Park pass
- Location: Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, ME
- Pro tip: Start early (sunrise is magical) or visit mid-week to dodge summer crowds – and bring layers because coastal Maine weather is moodier than a teenager
Park Loop Road transforms a simple drive into an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most photogenic landscapes.
9. Mount Desert Island: Maine’s Crown Jewel of Natural Beauty
Mount Desert Island is Maine’s largest island and home to the stunning Acadia National Park, making it an absolute must-visit destination for anyone seeking dramatic coastal scenery combined with outdoor adventure. This rugged paradise serves up a delicious buffet of granite peaks, pristine lakes, and sweeping ocean views that’ll make your Instagram followers seriously jealous.
The island’s crown jewel is Cadillac Mountain, where early birds can catch the first sunrise in the United States from October to March. Beyond sunrise chasing, you can hike the precipitous cliffs of Great Head Trail, cycle the scenic carriage roads, or simply beach-hop along Sand Beach and Echo Lake. The charming village of Bar Harbor provides the perfect base camp with its lobster rolls and quaint shops.
- Ideal visit duration: 2-4 days to fully explore
- Perfect for: Families, hikers, photographers, and nature lovers of all ages
- Cost: Acadia National Park entrance fee $30 per vehicle (7 days)
- Location: Off the coast near Bar Harbor, Maine
- Pro tip: Visit in early fall for stunning foliage and fewer crowds, or arrive early morning to snag parking at popular trailheads
Mount Desert Island proves that Mother Nature was definitely showing off when she created this coastal masterpiece.
10. Mount Battie: Maine’s Easy-Access Mountain Views
Mount Battie offers one of Maine’s most rewarding scenic experiences with minimal effort – drive up or take an easy hike to reach spectacular panoramic views from its iconic stone observation tower. Perched 800 feet above Camden, this charming peak delivers sweeping vistas of Penobscot Bay’s island-dotted waters and the picturesque town below.
The real star here is the historic stone tower, built in 1921, which adds an extra 26 feet of elevation for even more dramatic photo opportunities. Whether you choose the leisurely 1-mile hiking trail or simply drive to the summit parking area, you’ll be treated to some of the most Instagram-worthy coastal views in New England.
- Time needed: 1-2 hours (30 minutes if driving, 1-2 hours if hiking)
- Perfect for: Families, couples, photographers, and anyone seeking easy mountain views
- Cost: $4-6 vehicle entry fee to Camden Hills State Park
- Location: Camden Hills State Park, 280 Belfast Road, Camden, ME
- Pro tip: Visit during sunset for magical lighting, or arrive early morning to beat crowds and catch clearer views
Mount Battie proves that the best things in life don’t always require the hardest climbs – sometimes the most spectacular views are just a short drive away.
11. Perkins Cove – A Picture-Perfect Coastal Haven
Perkins Cove is a postcard-perfect fishing village that’ll make you question why you ever lived anywhere else, offering visitors a delightful blend of maritime charm, scenic beauty, and delicious seafood in one compact waterfront paradise.
This enchanting cove features a famous drawbridge that connects visitors to a scenic coastal walking path with breathtaking ocean views. Browse through unique boutiques and art galleries showcasing local Maine crafts, then treat yourself to fresh lobster rolls at waterfront restaurants while watching fishing boats bob in the harbor. The iconic Marginal Way cliff walk offers spectacular photo opportunities and connects directly to the cove.
Essential visitor information:
- Ideal visit time: 2-3 hours for full exploration
- Perfect for: Couples, families, photographers, and anyone seeking quintessential Maine coastal charm
- Cost: Free to explore (parking $2-5, dining $15-30 per person)
- Location: Ogunquit, Maine – easily accessible from Route 1
- Pro tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and catch the best lighting for photos
Perkins Cove delivers that authentic Maine coastal experience that travel magazines dream about – where every corner looks like a perfectly curated Instagram shot, but somehow feels completely genuine.
12. Old Port – Portland’s Historic Waterfront Gem
Step into Old Port and you’ll instantly understand why this historic waterfront district is Portland’s crown jewel – cobblestone streets, brick buildings from the 1800s, and that unmistakable salty sea breeze that whispers “welcome to authentic Maine.” This pedestrian-friendly area serves up the perfect blend of maritime history and modern charm, where you can hunt for unique treasures in local boutiques, feast on lobster rolls that’ll make you question every seafood experience you’ve had before, and snap Instagram-worthy shots of the picturesque harbor.
The district comes alive with street performers, art galleries, and cozy pubs housed in beautifully preserved Victorian architecture. Whether you’re browsing the eclectic shops along Exchange Street or watching fishing boats bob in the harbor, there’s something magical about this place that captures Maine’s essence in every cobblestone.
- Time needed: 2-4 hours for a leisurely stroll
- Perfect for: Couples, families, history buffs, and foodies
- Cost: Free to explore (budget $15-40 for meals)
- Location: Downtown Portland, centered around Exchange and Commercial Streets
- Pro tip: Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds, and wear comfortable walking shoes for those charming but unforgiving cobblestones
Old Port isn’t just a destination – it’s a time machine that proves some places only get better with age.
13. Allagash Brewing Company
Allagash Brewing Company is Portland’s crown jewel of craft brewing, where Belgian-inspired beers meet Maine hospitality in a space that’s equal parts educational and delicious. This beloved brewery has been perfecting the art of unique, farmhouse-style ales since 1995, making it a must-visit destination for beer enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Step into their welcoming tasting room where you can sample flight after flight of their signature Belgian-style brews, from the legendary Allagash White to seasonal specialties that’ll make your taste buds dance. The educational brewery tours reveal the magic behind their time-honored brewing techniques, while rotating food trucks outside ensure you won’t leave hungry. The casual, unpretentious atmosphere makes everyone feel like a local, whether you’re a beer connoisseur or just beer-curious.
- Visit Duration: 2-3 hours (including tour and tasting)
- Perfect For: Adults, couples, beer lovers, and groups of friends
- Cost: Tours around $10-15, tastings $2-5 per beer
- Location: 50 Industrial Way, Portland
- Pro Tip: Visit weekdays for smaller crowds and book tours in advance during peak season
Allagash isn’t just a brewery—it’s a Portland institution that perfectly captures Maine’s craft beer spirit with a side of genuine warmth.
14. Old Orchard Beach: Maine’s Classic Seaside Playground
Old Orchard Beach is Maine’s premier sandy playground where classic Americana meets coastal charm, making it the perfect spot for families seeking that quintessential beach town experience. This seven-mile stretch of golden sand offers everything from thrilling amusement park rides on the historic pier to lazy afternoons building sandcastles with the kids.
The star attraction is the century-old pier, complete with arcade games, carnival rides, and enough fried dough to fuel a small army. Beyond the pier, you’ll find a delightful mix of souvenir shops, seafood shacks serving up lobster rolls, and ice cream parlors that’ll have you coming back for seconds (or thirds).
- Ideal visit time: 4-6 hours for full beach and pier experience
- Perfect for: Families with children, couples seeking nostalgia, groups wanting classic fun
- Cost: Beach access free; pier rides $2-5 each, parking $10-15/day
- Pro tip: Visit weekday mornings in summer to avoid crowds, bring quarters for arcade games
It’s the kind of place where childhood memories are made and adult stresses simply wash away with the tide.
15. Stephen King’s House
Step into the eerie world of Maine’s master of horror by visiting Stephen King’s iconic Victorian home in Bangor, where the legendary author has penned countless spine-tingling tales behind those famous wrought-iron gates adorned with bats and spiders.
This Gothic Revival mansion, built in the 1850s, stands as a literary landmark in the quiet Bangor neighborhood. The house’s most striking features include the elaborate iron fence with supernatural motifs, distinctive red brick architecture, and yes, that mysterious totem pole in the yard. While you can’t tour the interior (it’s a private residence, folks!), the exterior offers plenty of photo opportunities for King fans and architecture buffs alike.
- Visit duration: 15-30 minutes
- Perfect for: Literature enthusiasts, photography lovers, and horror fans
- Cost: Free (street viewing)
- Location: 47 W Broadway, Bangor, ME
- Pro tip: Visit during daylight hours and be respectful—it’s someone’s home, not a tourist attraction
Whether you’re a die-hard King fan or simply appreciate unique architecture, this quick stop offers a delightfully creepy glimpse into the mind behind some of America’s most beloved nightmares.
16. Pemaquid Point Lighthouse: Maine’s Most Photogenic Coastal Icon
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse isn’t just another pretty face on Maine’s coast—it’s the lighthouse that graces the state quarter and countless Instagram feeds, perched dramatically on ancient metamorphic rock formations that look like nature’s own abstract art installation.
The 1827 lighthouse offers visitors the chance to climb its narrow spiral staircase for panoramic ocean views, while the adjacent Fishermen’s Museum showcases maritime artifacts and local art. The surrounding rocky coastline creates perfect tide pools for exploration and provides an ideal backdrop for that quintessential Maine photo op.
- Visit duration: 2-3 hours
- Perfect for: Families, photographers, history buffs, and romantic getaways
- Admission: $3 for lighthouse climb, grounds are free
- Location: 3115 Bristol Road, New Harbor, ME
- Pro tip: Visit during golden hour for the best photos, and pack a picnic—the rocky outcrops make for unforgettable dining spots
Between the climbable tower, fascinating museums, and those impossibly photogenic rock formations, Pemaquid Point delivers that perfect Maine coastal experience that’ll have you planning your next visit before you’ve even left.
17. Jordan Pond: A Perfect Lake Loop Adventure
Jordan Pond offers one of Maine’s most Instagram-worthy hiking experiences, where crystal-clear waters mirror the dramatic Bubbles Mountains in a scene so perfect it looks like Mother Nature hired a professional photographer.
The 3.3-mile loop trail combines the best of both worlds: easy boardwalks over marshy areas and gentle rocky paths that keep things interesting without breaking a sweat. You’ll circle the entire pristine lake while soaking up postcard views at every turn. The real treat? Jordan Pond House restaurant sits right on the trail, famous for their legendary popovers and afternoon tea with a million-dollar view.
- Time needed: 2-3 hours (including popover break!)
- Perfect for: Families, casual hikers, photographers, and anyone who appreciates good food with better views
- Cost: Free hiking; budget $15-25 for restaurant treats
- Location: Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, Maine
- Pro tip: Start early morning for mirror-like water reflections and beat the crowds to the best restaurant tables
This is Maine hiking at its most civilized – where you can work up an appetite on the trail and immediately satisfy it with world-class cuisine and lake views that’ll make you never want to leave.
18. Wells Beach: Maine’s Perfect Family Beach Paradise
Wells Beach is a quintessential New England sandy paradise that checks all the boxes for the perfect Maine coastal experience, offering everything from tide pool adventures to boogie boarding fun in a wonderfully family-friendly atmosphere.
This stunning stretch of coastline features a convenient mesh walkway and observation deck that make beach access a breeze, even for little ones and grandparents. The real magic happens during low tide when the beach transforms into nature’s playground – tide pools teeming with hermit crabs, sea anemones, and starfish become natural discovery zones. Meanwhile, the consistent waves make it ideal for boogie boarding, and the scenic backdrop provides Instagram-worthy shots that’ll make your friends back home seriously jealous.
Here’s what you need to know for your visit:
- Time needed: 3-4 hours (or a full day if you’re beach lovers)
- Perfect for: Families with children, couples, photographers, and tide pool enthusiasts
- Cost: Beach access is free, but parking fees apply ($10-15/day in summer)
- Location: Wells Beach Road, Wells, Maine
- Pro tip: Visit 2 hours before low tide for the best tide pooling, and arrive early morning to snag prime parking spots during peak summer season
Wells Beach proves that sometimes the best Maine experiences are the simple ones – sun, sand, and the timeless joy of discovering what treasures the Atlantic Ocean has left behind.
19. Sand Beach – Maine’s Hidden Gem with Pristine White Sands
Sand Beach is one of Maine’s most stunning coastal treasures, offering visitors a rare combination of pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters that’ll make you question whether you’ve accidentally stumbled into the Caribbean. This serene shoreline in Acadia National Park provides the perfect escape from crowded tourist traps while delivering breathtaking natural beauty.
The beach serves as an ideal starting point for scenic hiking trails that wind along dramatic cliffs, offering panoramic ocean views that are absolutely Instagram-worthy. During low tide, the area transforms into a natural wonderland for tide pool exploration, where curious visitors can discover starfish, sea urchins, and other marine life. As darkness falls, Sand Beach becomes one of Maine’s premier stargazing destinations, with minimal light pollution creating perfect conditions for celestial observation.
- Best time to visit: 2-4 hours, ideally during sunrise or late afternoon for optimal lighting
- Perfect for: Families with older children, couples seeking romance, and nature enthusiasts
- Cost: Free with Acadia National Park entrance fee ($30 per vehicle for 7 days)
- Location: Park Loop Road, Bar Harbor, ME 04609
- Pro tip: Visit during weekday mornings to avoid crowds, and bring layers as ocean breezes can be chilly even in summer
Sand Beach proves that Maine’s rugged coastline can surprise you with unexpected tropical-like beauty that rivals any destination.
20. Casco Bay Lines Ferry Terminal: Island-Hopping Adventure
Casco Bay Lines Ferry Terminal is your gateway to Maine’s enchanting island archipelago, where you can experience authentic coastal life while riding alongside locals on their daily commute to work, school, and the grocery store.
This scenic ferry system offers more than just transportation—it’s a floating cultural experience. Watch seals pop their heads up to say hello, spot cormorants diving for fish, and witness the charming spectacle of mail delivery to remote islands. The ferries serve as lifelines to island communities, carrying everything from wedding cakes to Christmas trees, making each journey delightfully unpredictable.
- Duration: 1-6 hours depending on route chosen
- Perfect for: Families, couples, and anyone seeking authentic Maine coastal culture
- Cost: $8-25 per person depending on destination
- Location: 56 Commercial Street, Portland, ME 04101
- Pro tip: Take the early morning ferry to avoid crowds and catch the best wildlife activity
This isn’t just transportation—it’s Maine’s most affordable cruise experience with heart, soul, and probably a few lobster traps on deck.
21. Champlain Mountain & Beehive Loop Trail
If you’re looking for a hiking adventure that combines stunning ocean views with a touch of adrenaline, the Champlain Mountain & Beehive Loop Trail in Acadia National Park is your ticket to Maine’s most Instagram-worthy summit. This moderately challenging trail rewards hikers with panoramic views of Bar Harbor, Frenchman Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean that’ll make you forget all about your sore legs.
The highlight of this hike is undoubtedly the Beehive Trail section, featuring iron rungs and ladders bolted directly into the granite cliff face – it’s like rock climbing’s friendly cousin who still lets you keep your hiking boots on. The 1.5-mile loop takes you up Champlain Mountain via the more gradual Champlain North Ridge Trail and down the thrilling Beehive Trail, creating the perfect adventure sandwich.
- Duration: 2-3 hours for the complete loop
- Best for: Adventurous hikers and thrill-seekers (not recommended for young children or those afraid of heights)
- Cost: Acadia National Park entrance fee ($30 for 7-day vehicle pass)
- Location: Start at the Bowl Trail parking area off Park Loop Road
- Pro tip: Start early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photos, and bring gloves for better grip on the iron rungs
This trail perfectly captures Maine’s rugged coastal beauty while giving you bragging rights that’ll last way longer than your post-hike muscle soreness.
And there you have it – your ultimate roadmap to Maine’s greatest hits! From lighthouse-hopping along the rugged coast to brewery-crawling through Portland’s craft beer scene, these things to do in Maine prove that Vacationland earned its nickname fair and square. Whether you’re the type who finds zen watching waves crash at Marginal Way or gets pumped climbing Champlain Mountain, Maine delivers memories by the lobster trap-full. So what are you waiting for? Pack that sense of adventure, bring your camera, and prepare to fall head over hiking boots for the Pine Tree State. Trust us – once Maine gets its claws into you, you’ll be planning your next visit before you even leave!