Welcome to Maine, the Pine Tree State! From its stunning coastline to its vibrant cities, Maine is a state full of adventure and beauty.
What to Do in Maine
Outdoor Activities
Maine is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise. From the rocky coastlines to the dense forests, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy. For those who love the ocean, there are plenty of opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and sailing. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, you can go rock climbing, mountain biking, or even surfing. For those who prefer to stay on land, there are plenty of hiking trails, camping sites, and parks to explore. Maine is also home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the northeast, so you can enjoy the winter months as well.
Shopping and Dining
Maine is home to a variety of unique shopping and dining experiences. From the bustling streets of Portland to the quaint towns of the coast, you can find something to suit your tastes. Maine is known for its seafood, so be sure to try some of the local lobster, crab, and mussels. If you’re looking for something a bit more unique, you can try some of the local specialties like whoopie pies, blueberry pancakes, or even a traditional lobster roll. As for shopping, you can find everything from handmade crafts to high-end designer clothing.
Sightseeing
Maine is home to some of the most beautiful sights in the country. From the rocky coastline to the majestic mountains, there is something for everyone to enjoy. You can take a boat tour to see some of the lighthouses and islands, or take a drive along the coast to see some of the charming towns. If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, you can take a hike in the White Mountains or explore the many caves and caverns in the area. No matter what you choose to do, you’re sure to find something to make your trip to Maine a memorable one.
Where to Stay in Maine
Hotels
When visiting Maine, there are many great hotels to choose from. For those looking for a luxurious stay, there are plenty of five-star hotels in the state, such as the Portland Harbor Hotel, located in the heart of Portland. This hotel offers stunning views of the harbor and city skyline, as well as a variety of amenities, such as a fitness center, spa, and on-site restaurant. For those on a budget, there are also many affordable hotels located throughout the state, such as the Econo Lodge in Bangor. This hotel offers comfortable rooms at a great price, and is conveniently located near many of the city’s attractions.
Camping
Maine is a great destination for those looking to explore the great outdoors. There are many campgrounds located throughout the state, such as the Acadia National Park Campground located in Bar Harbor. This campground offers stunning views of the ocean, as well as access to many of the park’s trails and attractions. For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are also many primitive campsites located throughout the state, such as the Baxter State Park Campground. This campground offers basic amenities, such as fire pits and picnic tables, as well as access to many of the park’s trails and attractions.
Vacation Rentals
For those looking for a more home-like experience, there are many vacation rentals located throughout the state. These rentals range from cozy cabins to luxurious beachfront homes. For those looking for a beachfront experience, there are many rentals located along the coast, such as the Oceanfront Cottage in Kennebunkport. This rental offers stunning views of the ocean, as well as access to many of the area’s attractions. For those looking for a more rustic experience, there are also many cabin rentals located throughout the state, such as the Pine Grove Cabin in Rangeley. This cabin offers a cozy atmosphere, as well as access to many of the area’s trails and attractions.
Transportation in Maine
Driving
Driving is the most common form of transportation in Maine, as it is in most states. The roads in Maine are generally well-maintained and the scenery is beautiful, making it a great place to explore by car. The speed limits in Maine vary depending on the type of road and the area you are driving in. The speed limit on highways is 65 mph, while the speed limit on residential roads is 25 mph. It is important to obey all speed limits and traffic laws while driving in Maine. Additionally, Maine has a number of scenic byways that are great for taking a leisurely drive and enjoying the sights.
Public Transportation
Public transportation in Maine is limited, but there are some options available. The Maine Department of Transportation operates a number of bus routes throughout the state. These buses are a great way to get around and explore Maine without having to drive. Additionally, Amtrak operates a number of train routes throughout the state, which are a great option for longer trips.
Car Rentals
Car rentals are a great option for those who don't have their own vehicle or who want to explore Maine without having to worry about driving. There are a number of car rental companies in Maine, including national chains like Hertz and Enterprise. Car rentals can be expensive, but they are a great option for those who want to explore Maine without having to worry about driving. Additionally, many car rental companies offer discounts for those who book in advance.
Events and Festivals in Maine
Annual Events
Maine is home to a variety of annual events that take place throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Maine Lobster Festival, which takes place in Rockland every August. This five-day event celebrates Maine's seafood industry and features a variety of activities, including cooking competitions, live music, and a parade. Another popular annual event is the Portland Flower Show, which is held in May. This event showcases the best of Maine's floral industry, with vendors selling plants, flowers, and other gardening supplies. There are also a variety of educational seminars and workshops available for attendees. The Maine Maple Sunday Festival is also an annual event, taking place in March. This event celebrates Maine's maple syrup industry, with vendors selling maple syrup products and offering tastings. There are also a variety of activities, such as tree tapping demonstrations and maple syrup-making classes.
Seasonal Events
Maine is also home to a variety of seasonal events. One of the most popular is the Maine Winter Festival, which takes place in February. This event celebrates Maine's winter season with a variety of activities, including ice skating, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. There are also a variety of vendors selling winter-themed items, such as hats, gloves, and other winter apparel. Another popular seasonal event is the Maine Blueberry Festival, which takes place in July. This event celebrates Maine's blueberry industry, with vendors selling blueberry products and offering tastings. There are also a variety of activities, such as blueberry picking and blueberry pie-making classes. The Maine Apple Festival is also a popular seasonal event, taking place in October. This event celebrates Maine's apple industry, with vendors selling apple products and offering tastings. There are also a variety of activities, such as apple picking and apple cider-making classes.