Ready to learn about more things to do in Maine?
Did you know that Maine has a population of just 1,338,404? That’s a population of just 43.1 people per square mile, which makes Maine one of our least densely populated states. Even Augusta, the capital, has a population of only 18,594.
If you’re ready to escape city life for a while, Maine is the perfect getaway. It’s lush. It’s wet. And it’s rural.
But if you think Maine’s tranquil lifestyle is synonymous with boring, think again. Our twenty-third state has some of the most diverse attractions in the US.
When you’re ready to discover why Maine has become the ultimate weekend getaway, read on.
1. Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse
Nubble Island is home to the Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse. It sits on the crest of the little, rocky island, less than a hundred yards from Cape Neddick Point.
It stands 41 feet tall, the light 88 feet above the sea which sits only 2 dozen yards away.
Congress approved $15,000 to build the lighthouse back in 1897, and it’s still in use today. The walkway circling the lantern room is adorned with railing stanchions.
They remain a feature unique to this building alone.
Though you cannot enter the lighthouse itself, the view is well worth the trip. Sohier Park, located nearby, hosts a lighthouse-themed gift and souvenir shop.
And its telescope offers close, personal views of the stark white buildings with their New England Red accents.
2. Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory
This is not to be confused with Fort Knox, Kentucky, the current home of the US bullion depository. Fort Knox, Maine, was built back in 1844 in response to British Naval forces.
Though construction continued into 1869, the fort was never completed. The design cost the government over $1 million dollars. The emplacement is built of quarried granite.
The main fort’s 64 gun-emplacements and two open water batteries that faced the river that sat only a dozen yards away. Each of the batteries was equipped with a shot furnace, a device to heat cannonballs hot enough to light wooden ships on fire.
With the advent of ironclad warships, the shot furnaces were soon retired.
The fort and the nearby Penobscot Narrow Observatory are now open to the public. Tours run daily to show off the impressive show of 1800 military power.
3. Sugarloaf Skiing
If you’re wondering what to do in Maine, throw on your snow gear and head to Sugarloaf for some of the most pristine conditions in all 50 states. The park boasts 14 separate lifts:
- SuperQuad
- King Pine Quad
- Whiffletree SuperQuad
- Snubber
- Skidway
- Sawduster
- Double Runner East
- Double Runner West
- Bateau T-Bar
- Bucksaw
- West Mountain
- Skyline
- Timberline Quad
- Moosecalator
If you’re new to skiing or boarding, you can rent all your gear. You can also take lessons at a modest price. Be sure to head to the slopes early because there is no night skiing.
The runs close promptly at 3:50 pm. That’s when the sun starts to dip down behind the hills. So, get there bright and early.
4. Anywhere Maine Windjammer Cruise
If you’re interested in more travel hacks, think Windjammers in Maine. The historic schooners once carried goods ’round the world. Just a glance at the famous vessels brings visions of what traveling must have been like for early merchants and explorers 200 years ago.
Wind-snapped sails. Heavenly stars. Salt-brined decks.
A cruise on one of the vessels will take you back to the 1800s when six sailors fit in a cabin built for two. Try one of the cozy cabins with dinner from the galley and sail back into American history.
5. Baxter State Park Camp and Climb Katahdin
Mount Katahdin is the highest point in Maine. It also marks the start of the great Appalachian Trail which stretches approximately 2,181 miles. From Georgia to Maine.
Eight main trails climb the sides of the mountain, varying from kid-friendly hikes to expert climbs. If you plan to head up, bring a warm, wet-weather jacket and plenty of water. Conditions change rapidly in Maine, often bringing heavy storms.
Also, plan to stay a while to take in the breathtaking beauty of nearby Baxter State Park. There, you’ll find 337 campsites and 209,644 acres of pristine wilderness. Be sure to get there early, as the gates close by 8:30 pm.
6. Oxford Hills Maine Leaf Peeping
What is there to do in Maine? Go peeping. Yes, leaf peeping is actually a thing.
Locals take long, scenic drives to leaf peep each year when the autumn sun rises. The leaves turn burnished gold, carnival red, and pumpkin orange.
If you tire of the drive, you can rent a cabin by the nearby Keoka Lake. You can light a fire in the stove and cuddle next to your loved one, book in hand.
7. Forks Maine White Water Rafting
If peeping isn’t your thing, you can damp the fire in your cabin and throw on your wetsuit. It’s time to brave the rapids.
West Forks, Maine sits approximately 20 miles north of Bingham. For more precise directions, you’ll need to grab a pen and paper. The mountains and valleys in the area make navigating by GPS all but impossible.
But the trip is worth it. Once you arrive, you have access to three virgin white-water rafting destinations. Each summer, day trips run up and down the broad river giving outdoor adventurers the time of their life.
When you’re done with the river, grab your tent and shish kebob sticks. It’s time for a campout and a good old fashion campfire at the local Three Rivers Fun Resort.
8. York Maine Shopping
York, Maine is only a short drive from Boston, Massachusetts. You can get there in about an hour on the I-95 for a quick day escape.
Begin your journey by perusing the handmade quilts at Rocky Mountain Quilts. Then head over to Ocean Fire Pottery to buy a ceramic gift for a loved one. Daisy Jane’s also has a unique assortment of rural Maine souvenirs.
And don’t forget about the sugary edible treats. Learn more about salt-water taffy, and other local delectable goodies by stopping in at the visitor’s center.
If shopping isn’t your thing, you can throw on your galoshes and head out clamming. The season starts in mid-December for a small $30 fee. Licenses are available downtown in the Town Clerk’s Office.
9. Boothbay Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
If you’re looking for things to see in Maine and you love gardens, head to Boothbay. You’ll not only see some of the lushest gardens in the US but also learn about horticulture and botany.
They offer classes year ’round. It’s open from 9 am to 5 pm, and adult tickets cost only $16. You can drive yourself or arrive by boat. The choice is yours.
After You’ve Discovered Things to Do in Maine
Whether you’re flying cross country or driving up for a day, Maine is the perfect escape from city life. Be sure to dress in layers, wear sunglasses, and bring your jacket. Light storms are common as sunrises in this beautiful state.
Did you discover new things to do in Maine? If you’d like to learn more, browse our vast library full of other vacation destinations.
So long and good luck!
