11 Top Weekend Getaways in Maine
The northernmost state in the east, Maine is a magical place to visit. From the small fishing villages that speckle the thousands of miles of coastline to the dense, wooded forests that make up the heart of the state, Maine has the setting for a perfect getaway for any visitor.
In between the rocky outcroppings on the Maine coast, tourists can find close to 70 miles of sandy shores. They offer everything from activity-filled beaches for a fun family weekend trip, to idyllic fishing towns perfect for a romantic getaway.
Hikers will be drawn to the peaks of Acadia National Park, where nature shines in all its glory, while art-lovers can explore the museums and streets of the vibrant city of Portland.
Start planning your next adventure in the Pine Tree state with our list of the top weekend getaways in Maine.
Portland
The most populated city in Maine, Portland is a great place to visit for a couples or girlfriends getaway. Depending on what you are interested in, Portland has a little something for everyone. Art lovers should head to the Portland Museum of Art, where an impressive number of artworks from both local and international artists is on display. Another must-see is the Victoria Mansion, an 1800s-era mansion with a remarkable period interior.
Take a walk down by the "Old Port," a neighborhood on the waterfront where there are plenty of shops and restaurants from which to choose. Portland's chefs have won numerous awards, and the city has become quite a destination for foodies. Restaurants reflect a global influence, making dishes from around the world available depending on your taste buds. One thing is certain, you won't go hungry in this seaside town.
Outside the city center, excursions to the Casco Bay Islands or Cape Elizabeth are worthy of additional time - ferries and tour cruises depart from the Maine State Pier located at the end of Franklin Street.
Rockland
Craving a low-key art-oriented getaway? Rockland is a great choice. You will feel like a local traveling to this small, friendly seaside community. It boasts coastal views, historic architecture, and traditional New England charm. Rockland has long been a draw for artists, who are attracted to its scenic beauty and magical light. Local artists are featured in the many galleries. The Farnsworth Museum has a collection celebrating Maine's role in American art. Additionally, the Center for Maine Contemporary Art often hosts interactive exhibits, and the Coastal Children's Museum is super for families.
No trip to Maine is complete without a visit to a lighthouse, and Rockland doesn't disappoint. Many are now privately owned, but if you take a trip to the Maine Lighthouse Museum, you can get up close and personal and get a history of these amazing structures, which dot the Maine coast.
Bangor
This quirky town is a popular tourist destination and makes for a unique weekend getaway for a hip couple or solo traveler. While you are here, visit the Cole Land Transportation Museum, with an interesting range of vehicles from Maine's history on display, from antique fire trucks to logging vehicles.
Head down to the Orono Bog Boardwalk for a mile-long walk through the bogs, where you can get in some quality bird- and wildlife watching in a beautiful, remote setting.
Wondering about other things to do in Bangor? Fans will want to tour the city's Stephen King-related sites in Bangor. If you have a chance, catch a concert at the Darling's Waterfront Pavilion, a unique outdoor concert arena. To top off your stay, don't forget to grab a selfie with the 31-foot Paul Bunyan statue, a nod to Bangor's history in the lumber industry, and if you want a more in-depth look at the history, head over to the Maine Forest & Logging Museum at Leonard's Mills in nearby Bradley.
Bangor is also home to a burgeoning restaurant scene, with many excellent options in the downtown area, including fresh takes on German cuisine and great pizza at Portland Pie Company, as well as Thai, Indian, Japanese, and other culinary choices.
Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport has long been a vacation spot for both Maine residents, as well as visiting tourists. Made famous as the summer home to the Bush compound, this area is a favorite for its beautiful sandy beaches and the opportunity to view a few of Maine's prized lighthouses. The Kennebunks, as it is fondly called, is busy in the summer months, as tourists flock here from all over New England.
While the initial draw is the ocean, don't miss a ride on the Intown Trolley Tour for a history lesson and sightseeing. If you have too much sun, escape the heat and head down to Dock Square. Spend some time walking through some of the eclectic shops and grab a bite to eat at their restaurants, ranging from casual fare to tablecloth fancy, all featuring local seafood in one recipe or another. There are many events and festivals throughout the year, making this area a great destination year-round.
The Kennebunks are renowned for their fantastic bed-and-breakfast accommodations.
Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is a beautiful destination on Mount Desert Island. Small-town charm shines in this gateway to Acadia National Park, but it's far more than just a pass-through. Bar Harbor itself is filled with a rich nautical history and colorful scenery, as well as vibrant shopping, dining, and arts scenes.
Some of the most popular things to do in Bar Harbor are sailing, fishing, and taking tours of Frenchman Bay. Those who want a unique beach experience can cross the land bridge to Bar Island, a trip that needs to be carefully timed with the tides lest you get stuck waiting for the water to recede again.
Camden
Outdoor enthusiasts will love a weekend getaway to Camden. This area offers year-round entertainment and caters to those who love the mountains in combination with the sea. Small boutiques, antique shops, galleries and world-class restaurants are found in abundance downtown.
Just outside of town are attractions that connect with nature lovers like Camden Hills State Park. There you can hike over 30 miles of trails. Don't forget to hike to the top of Maiden's Cliff to get a picture-perfect Instagram shot of the Maine countryside and the lake. If watersports is more your speed, Camden has sailing and paddle boarding. The big draw to Camden is the beach. For those wanting an escape from the summer beach crowds, try sunbathing at Barrett's Cove, a freshwater beach on Megunticook Lake instead.
Boothbay Harbor
Boothbay Harbor is one of Maine's favorite destinations. You can easily get lost in its beauty and charm and want to stay more than just a weekend. Often called the boating capital of New England, this town revolves around water sports and a rich maritime history. Adventure seekers will appreciate some of the best sea kayaking in New England. From the harbor, more than twenty boat tours leave from the marina every day.
Families will have fun visiting the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens or the Maine State Aquarium. Because this area is rich in history, there are a few historical sites to check out, like the Opera House or the Boothbay Railway Village, which houses antique cars and train memorabilia. While you are visiting, spend some time browsing the quaint shops. Try a dish from any one of the amazing seafood spots.
Acadia National Park
Located on Mount Desert Island, this 46,000-acre national park offers a wide variety of terrain to satisfy any nature lover and outdoor enthusiast. It's a hiking paradise, with over 150 miles of trails that traverse forests, mountains, and the scenic rocky shoreline. Cyclists and casual pedestrians will enjoy the 57 miles of motor-free carriage roads, while those touring by car can drive Park Loop Road's 27 miles.
One of the most popular places to visit is Cadillac Mountain, which offers stunning views over the bay, Bar Harbor, and the surrounding landscape. Easy hikes include the 4.4-mile Ocean Path, which explores the shoreline, and among favorite moderate hikes are Great Head Trail and Beech Mountain. Expert hikers can really challenge themselves on the nearly vertical Beehive Trail and the Beachcroft Path, both of which should be approached with extreme caution.
Camping is a popular option for those who want to stay within the park, or alternatively tourists can stay in Bar Harbor or one of the other nearby towns.
Windjammer Cruise
Day sailing tours are a great thing to do when visiting the Maine coast, but an actual cruise getaway on one of the historic Windjammers is unforgettable. The schooner Mary Day sails from Rockland, and offers one-night cruises that are perfect for a weekend getaway or anyone who wants to test the waters and see if a vacation on a windjammer is right for them.
The Victory Chimes, which also departs from Rockland, is Maine's only three-masted historic schooner and the largest passenger sailing vessel in the United States. Guests can relax and enjoy the journey or get active and help operate the sails, with plenty of opportunities to explore and try fresh-caught Maine seafood.
There are several other excellent cruises that depart from Rockland and nearby Camden.
Official site: https://www.sailmainecoast.com/pick-a-ship/maine-windjammer-fleet/
Sebago Lake
Sebago Lake is one of inland Maine's most popular tourist destinations, its southern end located around three hours' drive from Boston. With 45 square miles of fresh water that reaches depths of 300 feet, it's a perfect water sports playground for all ages.
There are numerous lakeside resorts and waterfront cottages for rent, as well as an abundance of rental shops for kayaks, Jet Skis, and other equipment. For those who want a slower pace, Sebago Lake State Park sits at the northeastern end of the lake in Casco and Naples. Visitors can camp by the water for overnight stays, or enjoy the park's beach and boat launches as day visitors.
Golfers will find courses in Casco to the north and on Frye Island, located at the southern end of the lake. Those who want to get a different perspective of the lake can take seaplane tours out of Naples.
Eastport
Eastport is the easternmost city in the United States and the perfect backdrop for a quiet, peaceful Maine getaway. This small town, with only 1,100 residents, is far less crowded than some of the other popular Maine destinations. What it lacks in people, it makes up for in charm. Take in the sights and relax at Passamaquoddy Bay. This picturesque bay is a great place to whale watch, birdwatch, and catch a glimpse of a dolphin or two as they swim by.
No Eastport getaway is complete without a trip to Quoddy Head State Park, where you can get a glimpse of the Quoddy Head Light, in existence since the early 1800s. The quiet downtown in Eastport is perfect for taking a leisurely stroll through the shops and restaurants, or just taking in the sights. Visitors can also get an authentic Maine experience on one of the deep sea fishing excursions that depart from Eastport. After a quiet weekend in Eastport, you will feel rested and recharged and wanting to come back for more.
