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Why Go to Maine

YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE

Maine is where pine forests meet the crashing Atlantic. The Pine Tree State, in the far northeast corner of the U.S., is famous for its lighthouses, lobster shacks, rocky coastline and vast, wild woods.


The state offers something for every kind of traveler. In the south, enjoy sandy beaches and charming coastal towns like Kennebunkport and Ogunquit, plus the great food scene of Portland. Head up the coast to Camden, Boothbay Harbor and Bar Harbor, the gateway to Acadia National Park, with its granite peaks, ocean cliffs and sunrise views from Cadillac Mountain. Farther north and inland, the remote forests, lakes and Mount Katahdin offer true wilderness for hiking, paddling and moose spotting. Along the way, stop at roadside stands for lobster rolls, blueberry pie and whoopie pies.


Fly into Portland or Bangor, and visit in fall to see the forests blaze red and gold. Maine is also a highlight of New England and Canada cruises. I'll plan a coastal road trip, a cozy inn stay or an Acadia adventure.

BEST FOR

Road-trippers, foodies, hikers, families and fall foliage seekers

BEST MONTHS

June to October

EXPLORE

  • Southern Coast: Kennebunkport, Ogunquit and beaches.
  • Portland: The Old Port and food scene.
  • Midcoast: Camden, Rockland and Boothbay Harbor.
  • Downeast & Acadia: Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.
  • North Woods: Lakes, forests and Mount Katahdin.

SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE

Maine

North America › Northeast › USA › Maine

Rocky coastlines, lighthouses, lobster shacks and fiery fall foliage.

National Parks & Nature

Lighthouses

Seafood

Nature

SIX18 INSIDER TIP

Plan a coastal road trip along Route 1, but leave time to stop; the best lobster rolls and lighthouses are often in the smallest towns.

Experiences Worth Exploring

THINGS TO DO

Watch sunrise from Cadillac Mountain; check whether a vehicle reservation is required.

Acadia National Park

Granite mountains, rocky shores and carriage roads on Mount Desert Island.

Visit early in the morning for the best photos.

Portland Head Light

Maine's most famous lighthouse, in Fort Williams Park.

Drive Ocean Avenue for stunning views.

Kennebunkport

A charming coastal town with shops, beaches and seaside mansions.

Explore the food scene; Portland is one of America's best food cities.

Portland's Old Port

Cobblestone streets filled with restaurants, shops and breweries.

Explore Freeport's outlets nearby.

L.L.Bean Flagship Store

The famous outdoor retailer's flagship store in Freeport is open 24 hours.

A luxurious, eco-friendly resort overlooking the ocean, with a spa and dining.

Inn by the Sea

Cape Elizabeth

Hotel Tags

An elegant inn known for its refined service and acclaimed restaurant.

The White Barn Inn

Kennebunk

Hotel Tags

A stylish boutique hotel in a former newspaper building in the Old Port.

The Press Hotel

Portland

Hotel Tags

A waterfront hotel with harbor views and easy access to Acadia.

Harborside Hotel, Spa & Marina

Bar Harbor

Hotel Tags

An oceanfront resort with golf, pools and views of Penobscot Bay.

Samoset Resort

Rockport

Hotel Tags

Curated Accommodations

WHERE TO STAY

Best Time to Visit Badge

November in Maine

High 48°F · Low 31°F · Rain 4.5 in

A quieter month, with cozy inns and fewer crowds.

The best time to visit Maine is June through October. Summer is warm and lively, while late September and early October bring spectacular fall foliage. Winters are cold and snowy, perfect for skiing.

Best Times to Visit Maine

WHEN TO GO

Where to Dine

DINING

Maine is famous for its seafood, especially lobster, and Portland is a top food city.

  • Lobster: Try lobster rolls, steamed lobster and lobster stew.
  • Seafood: Enjoy fresh oysters, clams and haddock.
  • Must-try: Lobster rolls, blueberry pie, whoopie pies and a local craft beer.

PLAN YOUR TABLE

Want reservations handled before you land? Your SIX18 advisor can book standout dinners as part of your trip.

Plan my trip

06

Walking

Portland's Old Port and small coastal towns are easy to explore on foot.

05

Ferries

Ferries connect the mainland with islands in Casco Bay and Penobscot Bay.

04

Island Explorer

Free seasonal shuttle buses serve Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor.

03

Amtrak Downeaster

The Downeaster connects Boston with Portland, Freeport and Brunswick.

02

Driving

A car is the best way to explore Maine, especially along Route 1.

01

Flying In

Portland International Jetport (PWM), Bangor International (BGR) and Boston Logan are the main airports.

Most travelers fly into Portland or Boston and rent a car. Once you're here, driving is the best way to explore the coast, while trains, ferries and shuttles help in some areas.

Getting Around Maine

GETTING AROUND

KEEP EXPLORING

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