Best Sightseeing in Maine
When it comes to sightseeing in Maine, you have a number of options. You can visit Old Orchard Beach, Moosehead Lake, Rangeley Lake, and the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, among other great places. And if you have some time to spare, you should visit some of the state’s many lighthouses. We’ll also cover the best places to eat in Maine. Read on to find out what to do in each area.
Old Orchard Beach
If you are planning to visit Maine, the resort town of Old Orchard Beach is one of the best places to go. It is a census-designated place (CDP) with a population of 8,960 at the 2020 census. It is part of the PortlandSouth PortlandBiddeford, Maine Metropolitan Statistical Area. Old Orchard Beach is home to several state parks and beaches and has lots of recreational activities for you to enjoy.
If you’re traveling with the family, the Old Orchard Beach area has plenty of things to do. If you’re on a budget, you can rent a kayak for the day. The prices are quite affordable. Some may require a deposit for the kayak, which they will return to you once you return it. There are plenty of restaurants in Old Orchard Beach that specialize in local seafood, including lobster, crab, and fried clams. If you want to experience the best of Maine’s ocean life, you can book fishing trips with experienced captains at Old Orchard Beach.
If you’d rather stay in town, you can take a ferry from Portland to Saco. The ferry to Old Orchard Beach is just a few miles away. You can enjoy the beautiful beaches that line the shoreline. You can also visit the University of Southern Maine’s Southworth Planetarium to learn more about the solar system. Camping is also cheaper than a hotel, and there are beaches that have shuttle services.
Moosehead Lake
Located in the Maine Highlands, Moosehead Lake is the largest body of water in the state. It is a beautiful body of water that is home to an abundant wildlife population. Whether you’re looking for a scenic hike or a fun day at the lake, this area has it all. Moosehead Lake is also home to small islands that are perfect for swimming, fishing, and other outdoor activities.
Moosehead Lake is a great place to go boating, kayaking, or paddleboarding. You can rent water sports equipment from local outfitters such as Northwest Outfitters. If you’d prefer a more relaxing way to explore the area, you can even take a seaplane tour. Currier’s Flying Service and Jack’s Air Service offer tours of the lake.
Moosehead Lake is one of Maine’s most popular tourist attractions. It is a lake of countless bodies of water that make it an excellent spot for fishing. Several fishing licenses are available in the area. To fish in the lake, you can hire a guide through Young’s Guide Service. In addition to fishing, you can also take part in hunting.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
If you’re looking for some of the best sightseeing in Maine, head to the Coastal Main Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, Maine. This stunning botanical garden opened in 2007 and was a favorite among locals and tourists alike. While there, you can explore the garden’s numerous exhibits, including a large butterfly house. Once you’ve had your fill of butterflies, head to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens for some of the best sightseeing in the state.
The Coastal Main Botanical Garden is open every day except Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission to the gardens is only $14 for adults and $16 for seniors. Children three to 17 can visit for free. Groups of 10 and more can purchase discounted admission. There are separate parking areas for buses and cars. The Coastal Main Botanical Gardens is a great place for a family outing, as well as an ideal way to spend an afternoon.
In addition to the annual events and displays, the Coastal Main Botanical Garden also hosts special events and educational programs. During spring, you can experience 50,000 spring bulbs blooming throughout the gardens. In June, the Japanese iris adds purple splashes to the ponds. During summer, you can enjoy the vibrant color of dahlias and tulips. The gardens also host events such as Maine Days, which give all residents of the state free admission.
Rangeley Lake
If you’re planning to go on a vacation in Maine, you must consider visiting Rangeley Lake. This scenic lake is fed by several streams, including Rangeley Brook. You should plan on spending a few hours at Rangeley Lake to enjoy the beauty of nature. It’s worth the drive. If you’re a water sports enthusiast, you’ll love the kayaking, canoeing, and swimming opportunities.
During the fall, the foliage is a beautiful prelude to winter sports. The famous fish in Rangeley Lakes become plump and ready for spring nibbles. Take a cruise on the lake, or try kayaking for a more up-close experience. While you’re at it, make sure to check out the zoo. You might also enjoy a visit to DEW Haven, a scenic zoo with more than 200 animals.
If you have never been to the Rangeley Lake Region before, you may not know that there are 110 lakes located in the area. Some of the most popular lakes include Saddleback Lake, Parmacheenee Lake, Umbagog Lake, and Beaver Mountain Lake. Some of the lakes have interesting American Indian names. You can spot moose-eating water plants in the water, and the town itself is full of family-friendly businesses and attractions.
Asticou Azalea Garden
Asticou Azalea Garden is one of the top visitor attractions in Northeast Harbor, Maine. The garden was created by Charles Kenneth Savage, a lifelong resident, in 1956. The gardens’ many colors and styles are sure to impress any visitor. The azaleas are a must-see for all flower lovers! The garden offers a unique opportunity to get close to nature and take pictures among beautiful blooms.
In the spring, the garden is absolutely spectacular. There are 70 species of azaleas and rhododendrons, a serene pond, granite outcroppings, and pink granite paths. You can also check out Thuya Garden, a woodland garden with a terraced hillside view. The lodge includes a small library of botany-related titles.
In Northeast Harbor, you’ll find the Asticou Azalea Garden, a charming garden filled with azaleas, rhododendrons, and other flowers. The garden is open throughout the spring and summer, but it’s best to visit during a flowering time. In August, the pond lily blooms. The autumn foliage season is also beautiful, and the garden is an excellent place to take photos.
Thuya Garden
If you’re looking for some of the best sightseeing in Maine, look no further than the Asticou Azalea Garden. Founded in 1957 by Charles K. Savage, this garden is part of the Thuya Garden Preserve. The garden is a wonderful place to visit in mid-May to see rhododendrons and flowering cherry trees. You can visit the garden on foot or by car.
The garden is a spectacular example of an English semi-formal gardening style. It is set against native eastern Maine woodlands and boasts an excellent view of the harbor. The surrounding downtown area is home to small art galleries and boutiques, and you can enjoy a few hours of retail therapy, too. And if you’re looking for some great Maine shopping, try a few of the shops scattered throughout the town.
The garden is located at the end of Thuya Drive, which is just off Route 3, about half a mile east of Northeast Harbor. You can park in the cul-de-sac at the end of the drive. The entrance gates are made of cedar and mahogany and are comprised of 48 carvings of natural history images. The garden was created by the landscape architect Charles K. Savage, who also helped design the property. Visitors are asked to make a small donation, but it is not required.
Monhegan Island
The most iconic attraction of Monhegan Island is its lighthouse, which has been operating since 1824. Although tourists are not allowed to climb up the lighthouse, they can still visit the grounds and view the artwork on display. The museum is another popular destination. The Monhegan Museum of Art and History contains works by prominent American artists, including Andrew Wyeth. Monhegan also features a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean.
One of the best ways to see the island is to hike on its trails. The island is small, but there are several miles of hiking trails. Hiking trails on Monhegan Island include Whitehead, Burnthead, and Lobster Cove. The hiking trails are easy to moderate, but it’s still best to wear appropriate clothing and footwear. To help you get a feel for the terrain, Monhegan Associates provides trail maps, which can be purchased at the visitor center or at the village.
One of the most scenic attractions on Monhegan Island is the Cathedral Woods. This natural area is named after its arched branches, and it offers a peaceful ambiance. You can also see rare flowers and plants in the woods. Lobster Cove is a great place for bird watching, though swimming in its waters is dangerous due to large waves and rip currents. The lighthouse grounds are open to the public, and you can tour the lighthouse and its surroundings.
Places to Visit in Maine
If you are a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for an amazing vacation, there are many places to visit in Maine. This north-eastern state is home to many historic sites and charming fishing villages. Whether you are traveling with your family or are looking for an unforgettable vacation, there are several places to see in Maine. Here are a few highlights:
Moosehead Lake
Located in Northwestern Maine, Moosehead Lake is a deep, cold water lake. It is the second-largest lake in New England and the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States. Located in the Longfellow Mountains, the lake is a natural resource and source of the Kennebec River. Several towns surround the lake, and visitors can enjoy boating and fishing on it.
If you are looking for a relaxing vacation, Moosehead Lake is a great destination. The area has a rich history and many recreational opportunities. You can go rafting, fishing, camping, hiking, boating, and even cross country skiing. The area is full of outdoor activities, and you’ll be able to enjoy them in any season. You can also book lodging near the lake to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
Moosehead Lake is an ideal vacation destination for nature lovers and eco-tourists alike. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and hiking on the nearby Appalachian Trail and take a scenic cruise on the historic steamship Katahdin. In winter, you can enjoy a roaring fire by a roaring fire. Moosehead Lake is one of the best places to visit in Maine.
Moosehead Lake is situated in the mountainous area of the Maine Highlands. It is the largest lake in Maine and is the longest body of water in the eastern United States. While it’s not near Portland or Kennebunkport, it’s only three hours away by car. The area is a quaint town, and travelers can enjoy many outdoor activities here.
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
The Coastal Maine Botanical Garden in Boothbay, Maine, is a beautiful place to visit. This garden was established in 2007 and opened to the public in 2008. It is a popular place to see plants in all phases of development and care. The beautiful gardens contain over 2,500 species of plants. You can also enjoy the many events held at the garden each year, including workshops and lectures. To learn more about the gardens, visit their website.
During the spring and summer, you can tour the gardens by boat or river cruise. During the holiday season, you can also take a stroll on the water by kayak or stand-up paddleboard. Visitors can even see the holiday lights of Maine during Gardens Aglow, a seasonal event that takes place from mid-November to mid-December. For the holiday season, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens hosts a dazzling lighting display of holiday lights.
The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens spans over two hundred and fifty acres. Its 17 gardens feature plants native to Maine or the coastal region. Various walks are available in this park, and the staff will help you discover the beauty of the plants. The gardens include a Vayo Meditation Garden, the Lerner Garden of the Five Senses, and a Butterfly House. Each garden is themed differently. Whether you’re a novice to botanical gardens or a longtime lover, you’re sure to find a place to visit.
Among the 270-acre property, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens offer hiking trails, waterfront, and waterfront views. Sculptures and paintings by local artists are a highlight of the gardens. There are also educational programs for both children and adults. Adults can attend seminars on gardening and design. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens also offers advice for creating beautiful gardens of your own. It has also adopted etiquette guidelines for visitors, so visitors can enjoy the garden with respect and consideration.
Acadia National Park
The landscape and wildlife of Acadia National Park are spectacular, and if you’re looking for a great place to photograph the sunrise and sunset, this is the place for you. Sunrise and sunset photographers will find that Cadillac Mountain and Jordan Pond are the best places for photography. For birders, Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse is the best place to watch puffins and other birds of prey. The park is open all year round, so you can visit year-round and see a variety of species.
Hiking enthusiasts will enjoy Acadia’s many hiking trails, which range from coastal walks to challenging summit climbs and thrilling cliff walks. Trails include ladders and metal rungs for tackling narrow ledges and sheer rock faces. The Precipice Trail and Jordan Cliffs Trail are two of the more popular cliff walks in Acadia. While hiking through the park, make sure to follow the signs for Leave no Trace principles to help preserve the natural environment and wildlife.
If you want to see the pristine wilderness, Acadia National Park is one of the places you should visit in Maine. With its 60 square miles of protected wilderness, the park is accessible by car by nearly one-quarter of the U.S. population. Access to the park is relatively simple, but reservations are required by 2021. There are five main entrances to the park. The Hulls Cove Visitor Center is off Route 3 north of Bar Harbor, while the Sieur de Monts Spring Nature Center is off Route 3. The Park Loop Road is a great way to explore this national treasure.
The first to the third week of October are prime times to view the changing foliage in Acadia National Park. The Columbus Day weekend is also a popular time to visit the park, and the first week after Columbus Day is the best time to see the fall colors. And for those who enjoy photography, the iconic Bass Harbor Head Light is a great place to take a photo shoot. If you’re looking for a place to watch the sunset, Bar Harbor is the place to go.
Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway
The Rangeley lakes scenic byway in Maine takes you through an unspoiled, rugged region that was settled in the early 1800s. During its early days of settlement, the region was inhabited by a dozen small family farms and lumber mills. The rugged beauty and abundant wildlife attracted tourists who soon learned of the area’s world-class fishing. This drive-through in northern Maine offers many ways to enjoy the area’s beauty.
The Rangeley lakes area is a canoeist’s paradise, with miles of interconnected bodies of water framed by looming mountains. The area offers many public landings on the lakes, including Rangeley Lakes State Park. Besides the State Park launch, you can also access the lake from the town park in Rangeley. You can also camp in the area’s back country.
This area of Maine is known for its autumn foliage, which is beautiful during the fall. In addition, the area is renowned for its vibrant culture and community. While traveling through the Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway in Maine, don’t miss the opportunity to stop at The Height of Land, a roadside destination on Route 17 that offers sweeping views of the surrounding waters and the White Mountains. Hikers also frequent this roadside destination to get a spectacular view of the area’s scenery.
In winter, the Rangeley region becomes a snowy wonderland, complete with 190 miles of groomed snowmobile trails. Winter is a time to enjoy ice skating on Haley Pond and curling on its ice-skating rink. The region is also a popular destination for tourists, and it has hosted U.S. presidents and other dignitaries.
Hamilton House
If you’re looking for a historical attraction, then the Hamilton House, also known as the Jonathan Henry Hamilton House, should be on your list of places to visit in Maine. Located on 40 Vaughan’s Lane in South Berwick, Maine, the late Georgian country house was built by a New Hampshire merchant in the 1780s. Today, it is a National Historic Landmark and is one of the few remaining examples of a late Georgian country house.
The house is an outstanding example of Georgian architecture. It was purchased by Emily Tyson in 1898 as a summer retreat and renovated in Colonial Revival style by her stepdaughter Elise. The center hall wallpaper is a reproduction of the original from the eighteenth century, while the straw mat floor coverings are Tyson-era recreations of those from Hamilton’s era. The grounds are also a great place to hike and enjoy nature.
If you’re planning a trip to the Hamilton House, don’t forget to visit the neighboring Sarah Orne Jewett House Museum. Located in the same historic district, this museum traces the history of the region and how trade and manufacturing have changed it. You can also take a hike through the beautiful Vaughan Woods Memorial State Park, which is home to many hiking trails and a historic mansion.
If you’re into art and history, you should make a point of visiting the Hamilton House and the Seguin Lighthouse. The lighthouse dates back to 1795 and is the oldest lighthouse in the state. There is also a tram system at Seguin that was installed in 1895, and it remains the state’s last working tramway. If you love art, you should take the time to visit the studio of the famous artist Winslow Homer. Homer was based in Maine between 1883 and 1910 and worked in this studio where some of his best works were created. One of his favorite spots for painting was the balcony.
Things to See and Do in Maine
If you’re wondering what to do when in Maine, you have come to the right place. In this article, we’ve highlighted some of the top things to see and do in the state. From the Asticou Azalea Garden to Moosehead Lake, Casco Bay, and the Bowdoin College Museum of Art, you’ll have no shortage of options. Read on for more suggestions! You’ll also be pleasantly surprised at just how much there are things to do in Maine.
Asticou Azalea Garden
If you’re looking for a quiet getaway from the busy world, the Asticou Azalea Garden is a wonderful choice. This small garden on Mount Desert Island blends the beauty of Maine with elements of classical Japanese gardens. The garden is best visited from late May through June when cherry blossoms and rhododendrons bloom. While this small garden is not as large as other gardens in Maine, you’ll get a peaceful sense of calm when you’re walking through the gardens. It’s also free to visit, so you’re not wasting time on transportation.
If you’re looking for a quiet place to unwind and get a good view of Maine’s azaleas, take a walk around the Asticou Azalea Garden. It’s part of a Land and Garden Preserve and is conveniently located right off Rt. 198. You can enter the gardens by going past the Asticou Inn, which is a small restaurant. You can also park on the road if you have trouble getting in.
Moosehead Lake
Located in Northwestern Maine, Moosehead Lake is the second-largest lake in New England. It is also the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States. The lake is situated in the Longfellow Mountains and is a tributary of the Kennebec River. Moosehead Lake is known for its many outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and kayaking.
While visiting Moosehead Lake, take time to tour the Maritime Museum on the lake’s east side. The museum is open from mid-June to mid-October, and admission costs $40 per person. While you’re there, you should book a Moosehead Lake Cruise. When the weather is warm, you’ll have the chance to view moose feeding in their natural habitat.
Moosehead Lake is the largest mountain lake in the eastern United States and is located in the highlands of the state. Located about eight miles from downtown Greenville, the lake is accessible by car and is a great place for a boat rental. The lake’s surrounding mountains are also home to two state parks, Mount Kineo State Park and Lily Bay State Park. The Moosehead Lake Region is a popular destination for vacationers and residents alike.
Casco Bay
When you’re in New England, you may find yourself looking for something to do in Casco Bay, a secluded inlet in the Gulf of Maine. The southern shore of Maine and its Port of Portland lie within Casco Bay. Here, you can explore the natural beauty and abundant wildlife of this unique region. Casco Bay is a perfect destination for a day of sailing, scuba diving, or kayaking.
If you’re looking for a different activity, head to Peaks Island and explore the island from a new perspective. The Maine Island Kayak Co. offers guided tours, including sunset and half-day trips. Experience a different perspective of Casco Bay by kayak and enjoy the picturesque views and wildlife while learning about the history of the islands. If you’re a keen photographer, you can also hire a local kayaking guide to take you through the islands.
From the harbors of Casco Bay, visitors can explore southern Maine attractions. The city of Portland, with its arts district and eclectic global cuisine, is just a few minutes away. Similarly, the Western Promenade in Freeport features a wide variety of outlet shops and the flagship store of L.L. Bean. The nearby Wolfe’s Neck Woods provides hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts in summer and skiing for the winter.
Bowdoin College Museum of Art
The Bowdoin College Museum of Art offers educational tours for children, as well as activities that foster creativity, critical thinking, and curiosity. Children will find activity pages and scavenger hunts to keep them engaged during their visit. The museum provides transportation for school groups, as well. Self-guided tours can be enjoyed by individuals or groups. For the entire family, there are tours for all ages.
The Bowdoin College Museum of Art houses one of the nation’s finest collections. The collection includes ancient art, including five large ninth-century BCE Assyrian reliefs. Other works include Renaissance paintings, Old Master prints, and American art. Visitors are invited to explore the diverse collections and participate in free public programming. For the younger visitors, the Museum offers a gift shop. The Museum also accepts donations.
The UMF Art Gallery hosts four to six exhibitions each year. Formerly a barn behind 246 Main Street, the building is now modernized and home to an eclectic range of pieces. The museum is home to works by Maine and internationally, and showcases many styles and mediums. This museum is open to the public, and admission is free on Fridays. When visiting, consider bringing your family to see the beautiful pieces.
Grafton Notch State Park
If you’re looking for some great outdoor activities in the area, you might want to consider hiking, biking, or fishing at Grafton Notch State Park. This state recreation area is located in Grafton Township, Oxford County, Maine, and spans three thousand nine hundred acres of land surrounding Grafton Notch, a mountain pass between Old Speck Mountain and Baldpate Mountain.
If you’re into birds, Grafton Notch is also an excellent location. The park is home to a diverse population of songbirds, including peregrine falcons, and a wide variety of northern forest species. Other animals that may be seen while hiking include deer and hatchery-reared trout. The park is part of the Maine Birding Trail, which has 82 sites throughout the state.
While in the park, consider hiking the Old Speck Trail. This trail is seven and a half miles long, with an open observation tower at the summit. Hiking through the gorge, you’ll get frequent views of the Notch and surrounding area. Alternatively, you can continue on the Grafton Loop Trail, which is 7.6 miles in length. The park’s hiking trails are great for families, and everyone can enjoy them.
Canoeing
There are plenty of places to go canoeing in Maine. The Penobscot River is an excellent choice for first-timers. While it’s possible to paddle the entire length of the river, it’s best to choose a section of water that’s more manageable. In addition, the West Branch of the Penobscot River is great for beginners, while the East Branch offers moderate whitewater and good moving water. All trips include thorough instruction, and there are four mandatory portages around waterfalls.
The rivers in Maine are known for their rugged beauty, so you’ll likely find some beautiful scenery to enjoy. The foothills are full of remote lakes and rivers. During a wilderness canoe expedition, you’ll learn how to maneuver canoes, portage them, line them down rapids, and communicate with your paddling partners. This is essential for the wilderness experience. The wilderness experience is not complete without these skills, and you’ll be glad you had them.
Ice fishing
When you think of ice fishing, the first thing that comes to mind is the chilly lakes. However, Maine’s climate means that the ice can thaw even earlier than the earliest record. For this reason, it is important to plan your trip ahead of time and to consult someone who knows the area well. Each year is unique in terms of weather, timing, ice thickness, and types. While most lakes freeze by mid-April, some ice may form late in the year because of springs.
If you are new to ice fishing, you can try catching bass, pickerel, and perch. Beginners may find this activity more exciting than waiting for the perfect trout. Be sure to bring a hot beverage or a tasty meal, and don’t forget to pack a pair of ice skates. A spare pair of gloves and socks will help keep you warm and comfortable throughout the day.
Whale watching
One of the most rewarding experiences in Maine is whale watching. The best time to watch these gentle giants is during the cool months when temperatures can be cooler offshore. Be sure to bring sunscreen, warm clothing, and a raincoat if possible. It can get chilly offshore, so make sure you pack warm layers and a blanket for the ride home. Also, don’t forget to bring your binoculars or a high-quality camera with a zoom lens!
While visiting the coastal area, take binoculars and a bagged lunch if you’re planning to watch the whales from shore. Many whales come very close to shore as they chase fish in shallow water. If you’re planning to watch these incredible creatures from land, it’s best to check out the hotspots for land-watching in the area as well. This way, you can be sure you’ll catch a glimpse of the majestic creatures up close.
