What to Do in Maine: Must-See Spots & Local Favorites

If you’re planning a trip to Maine this year and want to make the most out of your vacation, you’ve come to the right place. Maine is a destination that truly offers something for everyone, no matter the season.

From its iconic rocky coastline and charming small towns to its stunning mountains and vast wilderness, Maine is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and foodies alike. 

Wondering what to do in Maine this year? Don’t worry. I’ve got you covered! Here’s Sckylar from Adventuring Dreamers to let you in on the best things to do in Maine all year long.

As someone who loves discovering new places and making the most of every trip, I’ve put together this guide to highlight the best things to do in Maine throughout the year. Whether you’re planning a fall foliage escape, a spring experience, a summer beach getaway, or a cozy winter retreat, Maine has an adventure waiting for you!

What To Do in Maine In The Fall

1. Explore Maine’s Charming New England Towns

Maine’s small towns are quintessentially New England, with historic buildings, cozy inns, and scenic harbors. 

Many small towns host autumn festivals celebrating the season with activities like apple picking, pumpkin patches, hayrides, and craft fairs. Towns like Bethel, Camden, and Damariscotta are known for their unique fall events, like the famous Damariscotta Pumpkinfest. 

Each Maine town has its own personality, with local artisans, shops, and traditions. Fall is a great time to explore their culture, from handmade crafts to local music and storytelling events.

Some of Maine’s most popular small towns to visit in the fall include:

• Kennebunkport
• Blue Hill
• Cape Elizabeth
• Camden
• York

2. View Fall Colors From the Sky on the Sunday River Chondola

The Sunday River Chondola is a unique combination of a chairlift and a gondola located at Sunday River Resort in Newry, Maine. 

Zipping 1,000 feet up to the North Peak, the Chondola offers the perfect opportunity to peek at the Mahoosuc Mountain’s color-changing leaves. 

It’s an excellent activity for families, as the gondola cabins make it accessible for younger children or those who aren’t comfortable with open chairlifts.

3. Go Windjammer Cruising in Rockland

You can still enjoy the waters of Maine, even in the cooler autumn season. 

I actually prefer fall cruises over crowded high-peak summer cruises because they’re quieter and more cozy. The serene vibe on the water and smaller crowds make it a perfect time to unwind and enjoy the beauty of coastal Maine.

From the water, you can take in breathtaking views of Maine’s leaves changing colors on the coast. You’ll see the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows reflected in the calm waters, with rugged cliffs and lighthouses in the background.

Additionally, the cooler fall weather is perfect for relaxing on deck with a warm blanket and a hot cup of coffee or cider. It’s invigorating and refreshing, without the intense summer heat.

4. Take a Scenic Drive Through Maine’s Foliage Routes

Autumn is the perfect time to hit the road and soak in Maine’s legendary fall foliage. Routes like the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway, Acadia Byway, or Old Canada Road Scenic Byway provide some of the most breathtaking views of vibrant leaves, mountain ranges, and picturesque lakes. Don’t forget your camera, as every turn offers a postcard-worthy moment!

What To Do in Main in Spring

5. Spot Whales in Bar Harbor

Spring marks the start of the whale-watching season in Maine as whales, including humpbacks, finbacks, minkes, and occasionally the rare North Atlantic right whale, migrate back to the Gulf of Maine to feed on the nutrient-rich waters.

If you’re visiting Maine in the spring, make sure you book a whale-watching tour because mid-April to May is one of the best times to spot them early in their journey.

Bar Harbor is one of Maine’s top whale-watching hubs, thanks to its proximity to the Gulf of Maine, where whales feed during the warmer months. But you can also catch a peek of these majestic creatures in Boothbay Harbor, Kennebunkport, and Portland.

6. Lighthouse Hop in Portland

Portland, Maine, is a charming coastal town that’s worth taking the time to explore. But the town’s crown jewel is Portland’s five lighthouses scattered along its coast. 

• Portland Head Light
• Ram Island Ledge Light
• Cape Elizabeth Lights
• Portland Breakwater Lighthouse (Bug Light)
• Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse

Each lighthouse is unique with its own character and history and each is worth a visit when spending time in Portland.

7. Take a Historical Walking Tour

One of my favorite ways to explore somewhere new is to book a historic walking tour. Walking through town on foot is a fantastic way to get to know a new city, and these tours are always led by expert tour guides who are passionate about their town and have the best (and sometimes sauciest) stories to tell.

I highly recommend the “A Walk Through Time” walking tour in Portland because it offers a unique and immersive way to experience the city’s rich history, architecture, and culture, which dates back almost 400 years!

8. Paddle Along Maine’s Quiet Rivers and Lakes

Spring is a great time to explore Maine’s waterways, as the snowmelt fills rivers and lakes, making them ideal for kayaking or canoeing. Paddle along the Androscoggin River or the Allagash Wilderness Waterway for a serene experience surrounded by budding greenery and awakening wildlife.

Things To Do in Maine in Summer

9. Visit Maine’s Botanical Gardens

While Maine’s Botanical Gardens open in the spring, I recommend visiting in the summer as well because that’s when the gardens are in full bloom. 

In the summer, you’ll see vibrant flowers like rhododendrons, daylilies, and hydrangeas painting the landscape in stunning colors. 

The gardens feature over 300 acres of beautifully cultivated space with many trails leading to scenic spots for photography, relaxation, or simply admiring the beauty of nature. 

10. Beach Hop

Maine has 228 miles of coastline bordering the Atlantic Ocean. If you’re visiting Maine in the summer, take advantage of this state’s diverse coast by visiting one or more of its incredible beaches. 

• Ogunquit Beach
• Popham Beach State Park
• Old Orchard Beach
• Goose Rocks Beach (Kennebunkport)
• Sand Beach (Acadia National Park)

The warm, sunny summer weather, often in the 70s and 80s, makes it an ideal time for lounging, swimming, and exploring the sandy stretches, rocky coves, tidal pools, and rugged cliffs on the coast of Maine. 

11. Savor a Traditional Lobster Bake on the Beach

Summer in Maine wouldn’t be complete without indulging in a traditional lobster bake. Many coastal towns, like Bar Harbor or Kennebunkport, host lobster bake events where you can enjoy freshly caught lobster cooked over seaweed, paired with local corn, potatoes, and blueberry pie—all served on a scenic beach.

And if you don’t eat seafood, no worries! Surprisingly, for a coastal state, Maine has a long history of veganism and vegetarianism. You’ll find lots of veggie options, especially in the southern end of Maine. Instead of lobster on the beach, make your way to Portland and grab lunch at The Green Elephant, a delicious all-vegetarian and vegan restaurant. 

12. Explore the North

Visiting the Maine Highlands is a must for anyone seeking outdoor adventures or a peaceful escape into nature.

Venture into untouched wilderness and vast stretches of unspoiled nature when you visit Baxter State Park and the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.

Mount Katahdin is perfect for hiking trails. It’s the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. This is also a great place to kayak, canoe, and fish on countless lakes, rivers, and streams.

Many consider Kokadjo, Maine, to be the Wild Moose Capital’ of America. So, if spotting a wild moose is on your bucket list, you’ll definitely want to add the Maine Highlands to your summer vacation. You might also spot black bears, deer, and eagles in their natural habitats in this area.

Things To Do in Main in Winter

Maine in winter transforms into a snow-covered wonderland filled with adventure and cozy retreats. Ski through fresh powder, explore frozen lakes, or warm up in a seaside café with a bowl of New England clam chowder. From snow-covered trails in Acadia to charming small towns glowing with holiday lights, Maine offers a perfect mix of outdoor fun and relaxing escapes. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in the U.S. in December, Maine stands out with its festive charm, stunning winter landscapes, and endless seasonal activities. Here’s a guide to the best things to do when the temperatures drop.

13. Get Sweaty Cross-Country Skiing

Cross-country skiing or snowshoeing is one of the best ways to get active on your winter trip to Maine. It’s also a fantastic way to take advantage of Maine’s snow-covered forests, rolling hills, frozen lakes, and mountain trails by getting up close and personal to nature in this winter wonderland.

There are plenty of trails for snowshoers or cross-country skiers of any skill level to explore, from beginner-friendly loops to advanced backcountry routes. Popular destinations include Baxter State Park, Acadia National Park, and the Carrabassett Valley.

And don’t worry about bringing gear because most places will have some for you to rent. Check out Pineland Farms, just outside of Portland, or Gorham Bike and Ski, with locations throughout the state, for rental options. 

14. Try Ice fishing

If you’re looking for a unique winter adventure in Maine, try ice fishing. It’s a one-of-a-kind way to experience Maine’s frozen lakes and ponds.

Maine is home to thousands of lakes and ponds that freeze over in winter, offering excellent opportunities to catch species like lake trout (togue), landlocked salmon, brook trout, perch, and pickerel. Popular spots include Sebago Lake, Moosehead Lake, and Belgrade Lakes.

15. Attend the Annual Ice Harvest

Every year, a dedicated group of volunteers meets up in South Bristol, Maine, to harvest naturally frozen ice. They harvest the ice in the same way it’s been done for two hundred years, preserving a tradition that dates back to 1826. It’s a rare opportunity to see how people once relied on frozen lakes for refrigeration before modern technology.

If you’re looking for a fun, educational, and memorable winter event, the South Bristol Ice Festival is an experience you won’t want to miss!

16. Visit Maine’s Stunning Ice Caves

The Debsconeag Ice Caves near Millinocket are a hidden gem, where you can marvel at frozen chambers and glistening icicles that form naturally each year. Accessible via a short but scenic snowshoe or cross-country ski trail, this experience blends outdoor adventure with jaw-dropping natural beauty. Just make sure to bring traction gear and check conditions before you go!

17. Visit the Acadia National Park #1 attraction in Maine

Maine is most well-known for its national parks, lighthouses, and coastal areas. But its #1 attraction is often considered Acadia National Park.

Located on Mount Desert Island along Maine’s stunning coastline, Acadia is a must-visit if you love nature or exploring the outdoors. At 682 feet (208 meters) tall, it’s the highest peak on the East Coast and features over 150 miles of hiking trails.

What is the best month to visit Maine?

The best month to visit Maine is September. By this time of year, the humidity of summer is cooling off, and the crowds from the tourist season are going home. 

September offers warm, sunny days (average highs in the 60s and 70s) and cool, crisp nights, so it’s perfect for outdoor activities. 

By late September, Maine’s legendary fall foliage begins to emerge, with vibrant colors in the northern and western parts of the state, providing stunning backdrops for scenic drives and hikes.

Is Maine worth visiting?

Absolutely! Maine is definitely worth visiting, and not only for outdoorsy folks. Maine is a beautiful state known for its stunning landscapes, from the rocky coastline and sandy beaches to dense forests and majestic mountains.

It’s also home to quaint towns like Bar Harbor, Camden, Kennebunkport, and Freeport, all filled with historic charm, boutique shops, and a welcoming atmosphere. Maine is world-famous for its seafood (specifically lobster), but it’s also famous for its blueberries, pies, maple syrup, and brown bread.

Whether you’re a nature lover, foodie, history buff, or adventurer, Maine offers something unforgettable for everyone.

Conclusion: What To Do in Maine?

Planning a trip and wondering what to do in Maine? Well, hopefully, by now, you’ve got a few ideas!

No matter what time of year you’re visiting, Maine is a state of endless possibilities. With activities suitable for every interest, from strolling through quaint New England towns to exploring the epic wilderness of the backcountry, there’s always something to do. 

Whether you decide to hike in the Acadia mountains, meditate in the Botanical Gardens, or splish-splash your way across the coast, I hope you enjoy your trip to Maine.