Brandon Walker Maine boasts a unique landscape, unparalleled seafood delights, and a relaxed vibe, making it a top destination for New England residents. However, with one of the most frequented national parks and arguably the finest lobster in the U.S., Maine beckons travelers from further away as well. We think these are Maine’s prime attractions, adventurous activities, and overall value, among other aspects. Whether you’re seeking vibrant coastal towns, cultural cities, or outdoor treasures, discover the top spots in Maine.
Bar Harbor
Often hailed as the entryway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor in Maine seamlessly blends the state’s quintessential allure. Nestled along Frenchman Bay, visitors are treated to tranquil water vistas and rugged coastlines reminiscent of classic artwork. It’s also an ideal launchpad for some of Maine’s top whale-watching excursions. Beyond its natural beauty, the town exudes an enchanting charm, making one feel as though they’ve ventured into a fairytale. Yet, the delightful taste of local lobster grounds you, reminding you of the real-world pleasures. Bar Harbor invites you to pause, relish simple joys like leisurely walks, savor the rhythm of the waves at dusk, and indulge in delectable local cuisine. It’s the perfect retreat for rejuvenation.
Baxter State Park
Though Maine’s shores often steal the spotlight, those seeking genuine tranquility should venture to Baxter State Park in the heart of north-central Maine. With its winding dirt paths, a void of cellphone signals, and minimal facilities save for sporadic outhouses, this park beckons the truly adventurous who appreciate the raw essence of nature. The park’s unadulterated environment only amplifies the magnificence of its untamed wilderness, spanning over 200,000 acres replete with panoramic landscapes, serene ponds, and abundant wildlife such as moose, black bears, and white-tailed deer. For those with a daring spirit, challenge yourself with a trek up Katahdin, Maine’s tallest peak, a journey that can encompass a full 12-hour day.
Acadia National Park
When you holiday in Acadia National Park, you step into the shoes of an explorer. Every pathway unveils pristine landscapes, poised for your camera’s attention. Intense blue waves batter the rugged granite outcrops adorned with spruce, standing tall against the shore’s backdrop. While harbor seals bask on isolated rock fragments by the sea, overhead, peregrine falcons dive and call out. Meandering trails and age-old carriage roads weave through the park’s dense woodlands and serene ponds, inviting adventurers. Indeed, the park is a haven for outdoorsy souls, offering thrilling experiences from horseback riding and biking to hiking and rock climbing.
For a modest entry fee, you gain unlimited access to explore the vast expanse of Acadia’s over 47,000 acres, encompassing all its trails and natural wonders. And when you yearn for a change of pace, the charming town of Bar Harbor, Maine, nestled in the northeast corner of Mount Desert Island, offers a warm welcome.
Frye Island
In a region where sandy shores are rare, Frye Island in Sebago Lake stands out with an abundance of them. The island’s unique, nostalgic charm is evident throughout its 1,500 acres, especially in its myriad of cozy public beaches.
Upon disembarking the cash-only Frye Island Ferry, you’re transported to a seemingly distant locale, even though it’s just a stone’s throw from Route 302 in Raymond. The island boasts dirt roads, a handful of establishments, and an enveloping sense of solitude. The vibe here echoes that of the secluded islands further Down East, like Great Cranberry or Islesford.
A multifunctional building serves as the town hall, a store, and a café. Additionally, there’s a firehouse, a golf course, and a community center. Essentially, it’s a condensed town that offers everything its summer inhabitants require, having become independent from Standish over a decade and a half ago.
Frye Island doesn’t host any permanent residences. The island’s water system goes dormant in the winter, and the advent of spring, signaled by the thawing of Sebago Lake, marks the return of the residents and the recommencement of the ferry service.