Maine

United States of America

A serene pond surrounded by autumn-colored trees and lush greenery.
A rural landscape with autumn foliage, a red barn, and white houses.
A mountainous landscape at sunset with photographers capturing the scene.
A forest with autumn foliage and a misty horizon.
Chefs in a kitchen with stainless steel equipment and a wooden counter.

Revel in the charming towns and spectacular scenery of New England at its most picturesque in this state that offers adventure amid stunning natural beauty.

icture New England, with all of its glorious foliage and old-world towns, and you are likely to be imagining Maine. The “Pine Tree State” is one of the most beautiful in the northeast region, especially on its cliff-lined coast. Spend time in charming cities and venture into forests and mountains that promise both exhilarating activities and breathtaking views.

Visit historic sites across Maine such as St Croix Island, one of the oldest European settlements in the country, to learn about the state’s colonial history. The region used to be part of Massachusetts but it became its own state in 1820 to add more anti-slavery votes during the Civil War.

Relax in atmospheric Portland, a small city with masses of charm. Explore the waterfront and sample local produce in craft breweries and stylish restaurants. Stop by historic sites such as the Portland Head Light, which was commissioned by George Washington in 1791, and the Victoria Mansion, an elegant house built in the 1850s.

Maine’s other towns are equally appealing. The capital city of Augusta features the Maine State Museum and the State House, recognizable for its 180-foot (55-meter) dome. Travel to Freeport for 18th-century taverns and historical walking tours or visit Rockland for chic art museums and restaurants serving the state’s specialty, lobster.

Put on your hiking boots or grab a paddle and explore Maine’s vast wildernesses. Acadia National Park is regularly recognized as one of the most beautiful parks in the nation. Join whale-watching excursions or race down forested slopes on mountain bikes.

Head inland to the Maine Highlands to discover places such as Baxter State Park, where you can gaze in awe at Mount Katahdin, the highest peak in the state. Bring your binoculars to spot wildlife at Moosehead Lake.

Portland International Airport is the most common point of entry to Maine and is served by six major airlines. Revisit Maine in every season to discover the state in different colors. Winter brings snow sports, summer offers days by the beach, while fall brings New England’s legendary foliage.

Popular cities in Maine

A harbor with several boats docked, a rocky shoreline, and houses in the background.
Bar Harbor
Known for Ports, Bars and Nature
Salty sea air, rugged granite cliffs and sandy beaches welcome visitors to this island refuge on the northeastern U.S. coast.

Reasons to visit

  • Acadia National Park's Visitors Center
  • Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co
  • Cadillac Mountain
A lighthouse, a white house with a red roof, and rocky coastline at sunset.
Portland
Known for Shopping, Ports and Seafood
The largest city in Maine is a gateway for island hopping in summer, skiing in winter and a thriving cultural center year-round.

Reasons to visit

  • State Theatre
  • University of Southern Maine
  • Portland Museum of Art
A restaurant named La Pizzeria with outdoor seating and a sign advertising beer, wine, take-out, gluten-free options, pizza, pasta, and salads.
Ogunquit
Known for Beaches, Dining and Shopping
This friendly seaside town in York County, Maine, is a popular destination for gallery visitors, beachcombers, history buffs and shoppers.

Reasons to visit

  • Ogunquit Beach
  • Perkins Cove
  • Ogunquit Playhouse
A beach with a pier extending into the ocean, people sunbathing, and a clear blue sky.
Old Orchard Beach
Known for Beaches, Gardens and Sea
Experience some quintessential New England charm at this town known for its pier, waterfront amusement park, beaches and classic lobster rolls.

Reasons to visit

  • Old Orchard Beach Pier
  • Old Orchard Beach
  • Palace Playland
A waterfront marina with boats docked, a wooden house with a balcony, and autumn-colored trees in the background.
Kennebunkport
Known for Beaches, Shopping and Sea
Former presidents are among the many who enjoy the picturesque beaches, tasty seafood and relaxing atmosphere of this charming coastal town.

Reasons to visit

  • Dock Square
  • Kennebunkport Village Green
  • Walker's Point
A white house with a red roof and a lighthouse.
Stockton Springs
Known for Rivers, Family-friendly and Scenery
Come to Stockton Springs and enjoy its riverfront, history, and beaches.

Stay near popular Maine attractions

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