The 27 Best Things to Do in Maine in 2024

The Pine Tree State is first and foremost a nature lover’s paradise. Close to 90% of Maine is forest land, including 32 state parks and Acadia National Park, its indisputable crown jewel. Maine also offers an impressive selection of top-notch restaurants, a bustling art scene and tons of family-friendly activities year round. Whether you’re looking to ski down Sugarloaf Mountain, admire sculptures at the Farnsworth Art Museum or devour endless lobster rolls along the coast, a getaway to Maine promises a fun-filled trip that you won’t soon forget. Read on for more details on the top things to do in Maine.

Scenic Acadia National Park is a major draw for vacationers and Maine residents alike. One of the 10 most visited national parks in the country, Acadia draws 4 million visitors annually with its secluded beaches, rugged mountains, dense forests and craggy coastal views along the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can get their hearts pumping on close to 160 miles of hiking trails, the most popular of which include the Beehive Loop, the Jordan Pond loop, and the Cadillac Mountain North Ridge and South Ridge trails. Cadillac Mountain is a particularly popular spot for sunrise and sunset, as the highest point on the East Coast and the first place in the U.S. to see sunrise from early October to early March.

For a more secluded experience of Acadia National Park‘s natural beauty, wander the west side of Mount Desert Island or take a ferry to Isle au Haut, where fewer tourists take the time to venture. In addition to hiking, visitors can bike, kayak, swim, bird-watch and stargaze in the park. When hunger strikes, head to Acadia’s sole dining venue: the Jordan Pond House Restaurant. According to recent travelers, the eatery’s signature popover bread and tea – permanent menu items since the 1890s – are not to be missed.

Portland has all the offerings of a quintessential Maine destination (outdoor activities and lobster rolls abound), but it also boasts noteworthy art, food and entertainment scenes. Must-dos on a Portland vacation include exploring the shops and restaurants that line the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Port district, strolling along the Eastern Promenade waterfront park, perusing the Portland Museum of Art and indulging in local beers on a brewery tour.

Whether you’ve owned the signature Bean Boots your entire life or simply want to see what this Maine-made retailer is all about, a visit to L.L.Bean’s flagship location is a must if you’re in the charming town of Freeport (less than 20 miles northeast of Portland).

Opened in 1917, the multilevel venue attracts 3 million visitors annually. Snap a photo out front with the 16-foot all-weather boot replica before perusing the store’s many outdoorsy departments, from apparel to camping to fishing supplies. The flagship location also features a 3,500-gallon aquarium and historical displays throughout the store, but what impressed previous visitors most is the huge selection of items. The best part? You can visit this L.L.Bean whenever your schedule allows, as it is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Considered the gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is an excellent place to unwind and reset. Nature lovers will find endless ways to enjoy the outdoors in this Mount Desert Island town, including coastal walks along Frenchman Bay (a traveler favorite), as well as cultural experiences like downtown Bar Harbor’s Abbe Museum. Sharing the history and culture of the Wabanaki, the Native people of Maine, this museum is the state’s only Smithsonian Affiliate.

Foodies will be pleased in Bar Harbor, too: Fresh seafood is the destination’s specialty, but its artisan ice cream shops, craft breweries and quaint breakfast cafes are also crowd-pleasers. When it’s time to bed down, stay at the idyllic Balance Rock Inn, the luxurious Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina (a seasonal property) or a local vacation rental. You also can’t go wrong with one of Bar Harbor’s best B&Bs.

From May to October, animal lovers are in for a special treat. You can watch in wonder as majestic humpback, pilot, minke and finback whales feed and bask in the state’s coastal waters. Whale watching hot spots include Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor, Portland and Kennebunkport.

Hop aboard a boat tour with a company like Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. or Cap’n Fish’s Cruises for the best vantage point – and don’t forget to bring your camera, binoculars, sunscreen and layers of clothing, as temperatures can dip as you sail away from the mainland. Recent travelers recommended taking a cruise at sunset for the best views, though early morning tours provide some of the best natural lighting and calmest waters.

The quaint seaside town of Cape Elizabeth is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to the Portland area. Its postcard-worthy crown jewel is the Portland Head Light – the oldest lighthouse in Maine. Located in scenic Fort Williams Park, the lighthouse dates back to the late 1700s and stands 80 feet tall.

When you’re finished photographing the structure, head into the adjacent keepers’ house museum (open seasonally) to learn more about the history of the lighthouse. Spend the rest of the day in Cape Elizabeth at Crescent Beach State Park or Two Lights State Park before heading back to Portland or bedding down at local accommodations, such as traveler-loved Inn by the Sea, which is pet-friendly.

Ogunquit has all the makings of a relaxing getaway, complete with an old-fashioned trolley to help you explore the quaint town in summer. Spend your days sunbathing and swimming at the roughly 3-mile-long Ogunquit Beach or more secluded Footbridge Beach, or wander through the Ogunquit Museum of American Art (open seasonally) to admire more than 3,000 works.

Recent travelers praise the sights along Marginal Way, a 1.25-mile coastal walking path connecting Ogunquit Beach and Perkins Cove, which is a charming fishing village with shops and restaurants. Grab a lobster roll at Footbridge Lobster in Perkins Cove or indulge in American fare at nearby That Place in Ogunquit. Close out the perfect day with a show at Ogunquit Playhouse and a stay at luxurious Cliff House Maine just south of town.

There are plenty of beach destinations to choose from in Maine, but Kennebunkport should be at the top of your list. Plan to spend your entire vacation on (or at least near) the water, whether you’re fishing, sunbathing or sailing. Traveler-approved spots include Colony and Goose Rocks beaches, the small fishing village of Cape Porpoise, and Dock Square’s boutique shops and galleries.

Visitors can grab fresh seafood at The Clam Shack or dine at the White Barn Inn Restaurant – a Forbes Five Star- and AAA Five Diamond-designated eatery. When it comes to lodging, take your pick of luxurious properties like Nathaniel Lord Mansion – one of the most charming B&Bs in the U.S. – or book one of the area’s quaint inns and cottages.

Although tours inside of the legendary horror novelist’s spooky residence are not available and King lives elsewhere now, travelers still agree that a quick stop at Stephen King’s house is a must when traveling through Bangor, Maine. From the outside, visitors can see (and take photos of) the red Victorian mansion’s quirky features, from the spider- and dragon-adorned iron fence to the front yard’s intricate wood sculpture, which was carved out of a dead tree and features an array of mystical creatures surrounding a bookcase.

Recent visitors say that the property is especially eerie in the fall, and many recommend signing up for a roughly three-hour excursion with SK Tours to learn more about locations where King has lived, worked and filmed some of his most iconic movies.

Past travelers agree that Monhegan Island – which is only accessible by boat – is a lovely place to spend a day. Located about 10 miles off the coast and home to only around 100 year-round residents, the unspoiled island features wildlands with 9 miles of cliffside hiking trails, a small village with shops and restaurants, a lighthouse, a brewery, and an art and history museum. A few inns and other lodging options dot the island, so you can stay overnight if you wish.

Visitors have a few different options to reach the island. One choice is an hourlong ferry ride from the mainland town of New Harbor between May and mid-October with Hardy Boat Cruises. Or, leave from Boothbay Harbor on a 90-minute ride with Balmy Day Cruises, which is in service from June to mid-October. Planning your trip at another time of year? No problem. Monhegan Boat Line also offers year-round ferry service to the island from Port Clyde.

As the largest botanical garden in New England, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are a sight to behold. Vacationers in Boothbay (about 60 miles northeast of Portland) had endless praise for the seasonally opened, well-maintained gardens, noting how beautiful and enjoyable the visit was for family members of all ages. You can explore 300-plus acres of colorful exhibits, including a dahlia garden, a butterfly house, a bee habitat, a meditation garden, several lawns and lush forest grounds with massive recycled-wood troll sculptures hidden among the trees.

For a beach vacation in the Pine Tree State that checks all the boxes, head to Old Orchard Beach. The coastal resort town about 20 miles south of Portland boasts 7 miles of sand to stretch out on, as well as a pier with restaurants and shops. Families especially love the Palace Playland amusement park, which features a Ferris wheel, adventure rides and arcade games. Popular lodging options in town include beach house rentals, motels and inns directly on the water; try The Edgewater, which is beachfront and family-owned, for perks like a heated pool and an electric car charging station.

To embrace Maine’s gorgeous natural spaces without the crowds of Acadia National Park, pay a visit to Baxter State Park. The roughly 210,000-acre park sits in the center of northern Maine near the town of Millinocket, around 70 miles north of Bangor. It is home to Maine’s tallest mountain, Mount Katahdin, which towers about 5,270 feet tall.

The hike to the top of the mountain is strenuous (and not recommended for inexperienced climbers), but the fabulous views are worth the effort, according to past visitors. Still, travelers of all skill levels can embrace the outdoors by setting up a tent at one of 300-plus campsites and hiking through your choice of about 215 miles of trails. If you’re lucky, you may see wildlife like moose and deer as you journey through the wilderness (just keep an eye out for bears too).

Maine is famous for its lobster – and it’s home to some unique lobster-centric experiences. Try your hand at catching your own crustaceans with a cruise like Lucky Catch in Portland. Participate in hauling up a lobster trap or sit back and relax until it’s time to take your catch to Portland Lobster Company to dine overlooking the harbor. Farther north in Boothbay Harbor, join Cabbage Island Clambakes for a traditional Downeast clambake, which includes fish chowder, two lobsters and much more. The tradition dates back to 1947 and takes place on private Cabbage Island, an hourlong boat ride from Boothbay Harbor.

If you’re visiting Maine near the first weekend in August, head to Rockland (located about 85 miles southwest of Bar Harbor) with tens of thousands fellow attendees for the annual five-day Maine Lobster Festival. More than 20,000 pounds of delicious local lobster are brought in to feed the masses, and the festival features seafood cooking contests, live music, arts and crafts vendors, a parade, wine and beer tastings, 5K and 10K races, and more for patrons of all ages.

Located in Carrabassett Valley in western Maine, Sugarloaf Mountain is a year-round getaway for travelers looking to get active. In the warmer months, vacationers can hike, mountain bike, play disc golf and go zip lining. But visitors say Sugarloaf truly shines in the winter with its cold weather sports: It offers the only lift-serviced, above-treeline skiing in the eastern U.S. and is the largest ski area east of the Rocky Mountains. Snow lovers can participate in cross-country skiing on more than 30 miles of trails, as well as snowshoeing and ice skating.

After a full day of activity, get some rest at the on-site Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel, or rent out a condo or private home if you’re traveling with a group.

Endless fun awaits at Funtown Splashtown USA. The appropriately named entertainment venue in Saco (less than 20 miles south of Portland) consists of two sections: a water park and an amusement park. Visitors looking to get their hearts pumping can enjoy thrill rides like Maine’s only wooden rollercoaster, the longest and tallest log flume in New England, or a drop tower that sends travelers into a 220-foot free fall. Younger patrons will have their pick of tamer amusement park attractions as well, including a kiddie train, bumper boats and a classic carousel.

Meanwhile, on the wetter side of the park, travelers can zoom down the Poseidon’s Plunge waterslide, splash in the lagoon and load the whole family onto a raft slide. Recent travelers said their children had a blast at the park. For those looking to avoid theme park prices on refreshments, outside food and nonalcoholic drinks are welcome in the park at picnic areas. After a fun-filled day, retire to The Beachwood in nearby Old Orchard Beach, which has direct beach access and amenities like barbecue facilities.

Located in Rockland, the Farnsworth Art Museum houses more than 15,000 pieces that highlight Maine’s role in the history of American art. Opened in 1948, the 20,000-square-foot museum features rotating exhibits highlighting artists like sculptor Louise Nevelson and painter Andrew Wyeth. Recent travelers praised the curated collection of works, noting that the museum was well worth the trip to Rockland. After touring the museum, grab a meal at a restaurant nearby, such as upscale farm-to-table eatery Primo or the casual family-owned Hill’s Seafood Co.

An idyllic Bar Harbor escape situated just 4 miles north of Acadia National Park, Terramor Outdoor Resort opened in 2020 and offers a blend of nature and luxury, making it one of the top glamping resorts in the U.S. Spend your vacation hiking, fishing, stargazing, enjoying a meal at the Lodge, or soaking in the pool and hot tub.

Each stylish glamping tent is outfitted with electricity, a portable cooler and heater, Wi-Fi access, and a fire pit. Some have private bathrooms and additional perks like patio space. Past guests at the property had tons of praise for the resort, highlighting the clean and comfortable accommodations, lovely location and friendly staff.

Open seasonally from May through October (and again for the winter holiday season), Victoria Mansion was constructed in the mid-1800s as a private home. Also referred to as the Morse-Libby House, the Portland residence first opened as a museum in 1941. The mansion is influential interior designer Gustave Herter’s only surviving commission, and it portrays some of the most well-preserved Italian villa-style architecture in the country. Victoria Mansion offers both guided and self-guided tours that showcase stunning artifacts and one-of-a-kind decor. Recent travelers were thoroughly impressed by the property and found the tours to be informative.

The Casco Bay Islands encompass an assortment of coastal towns near Portland offering plenty of fun things to do. The relaxed, small-town vibe in some of these Casco Bay communities provides ideal settings to unwind with bike rides, scenic walks and tasty seafood.

Peaks Island is the most popular island because of its many amenities and proximity to Portland, but visitors who would like a more comprehensive taste of the area should consider the traveler-approved Mailboat Run day cruise. Operated by Casco Bay Lines, the roughly three-hour tour visits five different islands – Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Cliff Island, Long Island and Chebeague Island – and gives a bit of history on each. Opportunities to stay on-island include The Inn on Peaks Island, the secluded Inn at Diamond Cove and private house rentals.

Managed by the Maine Historical Society, the Wadsworth-Longfellow House is a National Historic Landmark that dates back to 1785. It housed three generations of Wadsworth and Longfellow family members, the most well known of whom was Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, an important literary and cultural figure in 1800s American society. Today, visitors can tour the Portland house from June to October to see many original household artifacts, as well as the lush Longfellow Garden located behind the property. Recent travelers felt the home was well preserved and enjoyed exploring at their leisure.

At the Maine Maritime Museum, vacationers can learn all about the state’s nautical history while taking in views of the Kennebec River. The 20-acre campus in Bath features both indoor exhibits and a large outdoor shipyard for visitors to explore. Traveler favorites include the museum’s short historical films, an impressive collection of ship machinery, and displays of maritime artifacts and artwork. After touring the premises, visitors can finish out the day with one of the museum’s river cruises to learn more about the shipyard or view local wildlife and nearby lighthouses (available seasonally).

Maine has no shortage of lighthouses to choose from, but the Nubble Lighthouse (also called Cape Neddick Light Station) is worth a visit if you’re in the town of York. Built in 1879, the structure – which is on the National Register of Historic Places – welcomes visitors throughout the year to paint, take photos, fish or settle in for a picnic. Recent travelers reported the picturesque stop was worth the trip for the views alone, noting the lighthouse and ocean vistas are beautiful no matter the season. When planning your visit, keep in mind that the gift shop and restrooms are only open seasonally, typically from April or May to October.

Located in Portland, Allagash Brewing Company is an independent craft brewery that receives rave reviews from travelers and locals alike. Its signature Belgian-style wheat beer – Allagash White – is a must-taste, but just about every palate will find a sour, barrel-aged, wild or spontaneously fermented beer that tickles their fancy. Visitors can enjoy their brews in the family-friendly tasting room or purchase tickets for a more curated hourlong tasting session of five beers in The Cellars.

Past patrons loved the brewery’s relaxed atmosphere both indoors and outdoors, as well as the delicious beers and on-site food truck, which serves up lobster rolls and other Maine specialties. Make it a brewery-hopping event by visiting some of the lesser known but still beloved breweries, including Foundation Brewing Company and Definitive Brewing Company, on the same road.

Affiliated with Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine – around 25 miles northeast of Portland – the Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum is a unique attraction showcasing all things Arctic. Named in honor of Robert E. Peary and Donald B. MacMillan, graduates of the college from the late 1800s who explored the Arctic region, the museum houses expedition equipment, natural history specimens and other objects of interest. Past exhibits have detailed the history of women’s contributions to Arctic exploration and research, traditional and contemporary music as a part of Inuit society, and more.

Previous visitors enjoyed perusing the free attraction, highlighting the exhibits with Arctic clothing, Inuit artwork and more. The museum recently moved to a brand-new state-of-the-art space: the John and Lile Gibbons Center for Arctic Studies, further positioning Bowdoin as a leader in Arctic research and education.

Maine has no shortage of beautiful lakes. Locals and visitors love Sebago and Rangeley, but there is something special about Maine’s largest lake: Moosehead Lake, located a little more than 100 miles northwest of Bangor. Rent a canoe, kayak, or whatever water vessel floats your boat to explore the nearly 75,000 acres of fresh water. For a different vantage point, take the whole family for a hike above the lake via Mount Kineo – or opt for a less strenuous but no less exciting seaplane tour for aerial views.

Moose outnumber people three to one in this secluded area, so what better place to go on a moose safari? Recent safari-adventurers rave about Northwoods Outfitters’ knowledgeable and personable guides. Wind down at one of the campgrounds and stare up at the Milky Way, or find traditional lodging and dining options in nearby towns like Greenville and Guilford.

Considered one of the most beautiful small towns in the U.S., Camden sits between the mountains and the sea (about 80 miles north of Portland). In winter, skiers delight in Camden’s Snow Bowl, the only place on the East Coast where you can ski with ocean views. No matter the season, you’ll enjoy strolling this quintessential coastal New England town for sophisticated shopping and award-winning dining options.

Head to Camden Hills State Park, where Mount Battie is a crowd favorite for its century-old tower and sweeping views. Reward your efforts with a sunset sail on a hand-built windjammer past picturesque Curtis Island Light, historic inns and mansions, and Maine wildlife. Top-rated hotels in the area include the elegant Hartstone Inn & Hideaway and the posh Camden Harbour Inn.

Mariya Greeley is a writer based in Portland, Maine. She grew up on the border of New Hampshire and Vermont, and though she has traveled to a dozen countries and lived everywhere from Maui to D.C., New England remains her favorite corner of the world to explore – usually with a book or dog leash in hand – and share through her writing.

Nicola Wood is a senior travel editor who has visited 26 countries (and counting). She researches destinations across the U.S. and abroad both for her job and her own future vacations. Maine is on her travel bucket list, and she’s put in countless hours scouring the internet for the best places to stay, visit and eat – so you don’t have to.