Best Donuts in Maine
Not all donuts are created equally, but we love them all the same. These are our favorite donut shops in Maine. Be sure to get there earlier in the day, they all sell out fast.
Tag: new england
Visiting Camden, Maine
Camden is a coastal town in Maine that brings on the charm and nautical lifestyle. A must stop town in a road trip across Maine.
Best Small Maine Towns
This list is well debated amongst locals and visitors alike. It really boils down to what you’re looking for in a “small town” in general. Personally, I have a different opinion on what small town means. To me, it is actually a small town with one traffic light, no stores, or perhaps just a main street. This is not the ideal place to visit if you are up for exploring or just visiting for a small amount of time. This list is geared more towards small towns with things to do, which in my opinion would make them slightly more than “small towns”. Each one has a draw to it, whether it is natural beauty or some form of entertainment.
Before we get started here are our favorites for shopping, outdoor recreation and best views. Some towns have all three, and some only have one.
Shopping: Major-Freeport Local-Kennebunkport
Outdoor Recreation: Greenville
Views: Monhegan Island
All Three: Kennebunkport, Greenville, Camden/Rockland
Boothbay Harbor
Another coastal beauty, Boothbay Harbor is a gem that puts off coastal charm. There is no lack of things to do here if you want to plan a weekend or a week in the area. The main attractions to Boothbay are the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Burnt Island Lighthouse, Boothbay Harbor Shops, Maine State Aquarium and Boothbay Railway. If I had to pick only one of those places to stop at it would be the botanical gardens. From harbor cruises, restaurants to entertainment you’ll be kept busy.
Rockland and Camden
Rockland and Camden are both known for their love of the arts. You’ll notice right away in town that most of the shops give the flowing creative vibe. I bunched the towns together in the same category because they are neighbors, and are often visited on the same day or weekend. You don’t have to be an outdoor enthusiast to enjoy your time here, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to enjoy an afternoon of wandering. Some of the key highlights of the towns are the Farnsworth Art Museum, Maine Lighthouse Museum, Rockland Breakwater, Camden Hills State Park, and local shops. If you are an outdoor enthusiast there are plenty of hiking trails in Camden. Take a hike to the top of Mt. Battie to get amazing views of the harbor.
Freeport
This pick could be questionable for the “small towns” list. Freeport is a growing shopping district, but it still emanates small town charm. Freeport is mostly known for housing L.L.Bean, but is lined with other small local businesses that thrive with tourism. If you are a foodie or a brewery aficionado you will love Freeport. You could easily make Freeport your central hub for your trip to Maine, and not end up leaving the town limits.
Rangeley
If you love the outdoors, this town is for you. There are local shops and businesses to stop in during your visit, but they wouldn’t be the highlight of your trip. Rangeley is known for its amazing summer recreation on Rangeley Lake, hiking trails and relaxation. In the winter months the snowmobiles are active on the trails as well as cross country skiers and snowshoers. If relaxation and outdoor recreation are what you’re looking for then Rangeley is the right spot for you.
Ellsworth
I find it interesting when Ellsworth finds its way onto others’ lists of “where to visit in Maine” because honestly Ellsworth is pretty average. It is the surrounding area that you actually want to visit. We lived in Ellsworth for a little while and we spent most of our free time in Lamoine and Bar Harbor. Ellsworth is the major town outside of Acadia National Park. You heard me right. Bar Harbor is the closest town, but it is strictly a tourism town. Ellsworth is the first major town you will find the locals in. If you’re taking a trip to Downeast Maine it is a great spot to base your trip out of. There are hotels, restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations and plenty of amenities to support your trip Downeast.
Greenville
It is not a secret that Greenville is a popular summer destination, but I still find myself wanting to keep this knowledge to myself. I f*&#ing love Greenville. This is the destination you want to set your heading to if you enjoy the great outdoors with a hint of amenities. The main street has a coffee shop, outdoor gear store and atv rental location, restaurants, and town docks on the lake. Moosehead lake is generally what draws in the crowd, but don’t forget the major network of hiking trails, atv trails, moose watching and relaxing that will go along with it. If you check out our website we have an entire post dedicated to Greenville.
Kennebunkport
This town is what I would call a major small town. So close to Maine’s southern border it is really easy to access from out of state. When you visit you’ll be awed by the coastal views and downtown charm overlooking the water while shopping. A few stores are actually built on a pier over the tide. If you like fine dining you’ll find several options to love, and if you like breweries and local food you won’t be left wanting. Spend your day in Kennebunkport taking in the shops and restaurants.
Castine/Belfast
I tend to view Castine and Belfast as the smaller, unique version of Rockland and Camden. There are smaller crowds, more local shopping and restaurants. If you’d like a slower pace to your trip to Maine these towns have the actual small town feel to them. Castine is home to Maine Maritime Academy, and has a small hub of a town surrounding it. Belfast is slightly larger with local shops and restaurants. Their location on Route 1 allows easy access to other coastal towns for adventuring.
Monson
I put Monson on this list as a bonus, and it does fit the bill as an actual small town. Monson is on the way to Greenville, and west of Sebec and Dover-Foxcroft. This makes it a great spot to stop at if you’re headed to Moosehead Lake or Peaks Kenney State Park. You may even want to make it your central spot for visiting either area as day trips. My favorite spot is the Monson General Store, or having dinner on the lake at The Lakeshore House.
Monhegan Island
Located 10 miles off the coast of Pemaquid, Monhegan Island is only about a square mile in size. You’ll need to take the ferry or your own boat to get there. The main draw to the island is the natural beauty, hiking trails and small town charm. While you’re there check out the Monhegan Island Lighthouse then grab a drink from Monhegan Brewing Company. There are inns on the island if you’d like to spend the night as well.
This list of the best small Maine towns is a bit unconventional, but well worth it. It’s my personal opinion that some travel blogs and websites play up how much there is to do in each town. I would hate it if I was planning a vacation, got there and realized there wasn’t as much as I thought, or I was in the wrong spot for the activity I wanted the most. Hopefully this list will help you figure out if you’re looking for small town charm, shopping, outdoor activities or general relaxation. Happy adventuring!
Cruising to Portland, Maine
Portland, Maine is an exceptional spot to add to your cruise itinerary. The port drop off location is directly in Portland, within a short walking distance of the beautiful downtown shops and restaurants.
Maine Bucket List
Even though I have lived in Maine my entire life, I have always struggled to “find things to do”. Simply because there are too many things to choose from. This is my Maine bucket list of special things to do while you are here. Some of the items on the list are broad, such as “eat a lobster roll” because there are so many restaurants to try. I made the list simple and to the point in hopes that it will give you ideas to create your own trip the way you want to. I will give suggestions to some popular spots if there are some under each bucket list item.
1) Eat a lobster roll
There are a few hit spots to grab a lobster roll while visiting Maine. The most talked about spot seems to be Red’s Eats in Wiscasset. Our favorite spots are Five Islands (Georgetown), The Lobster Shack at Two Lights (Cape Elizabeth), Highroller Lobster Co. (Portland) and Cameron’s (Brunswick).
2) See the Puffins on a boat tour (early summer only)
Hardy Boat Cruises offers Puffin Watch cruises out of New Harbor. The cruise takes you to Eastern Egg Rock which is 5 miles from New Harbor, and circles the island for half an hour to get a good view of the puffins inhabiting the island.
3) Take a tour of a lighthouse
Certain Maine lighthouses are open for tours during the summer (to see the inside of the lighthouse), most others are open all year round to explore on your own.
4) Take a ride on a Windjammer
There are a lot of options for taking a cruise on a windjammer, the most popular places for rides are in Bar Harbor, Camden, Portland, Rockland, and Boothbay.
5) Visit Acadia National Park
Acadia is a must-see if you’re visiting Maine. Make sure you have ample time to visit, it does take some time to get there and back from the Portland area.
6) Go berry picking
Prime time for picking strawberries is in mid to late June. There are many local farms that open for berry picking by the pound, be sure to bring your own containers. Blueberry season tends to be in mid-July. You can either pick high-bush blueberries on a local farm for a per-pound fee or find your own natural blueberry spots. Most Mainers are a bit secretive about their favorite native spots.
7) Visit a Maine State Park
There are Maine State Parks near almost every major recreation spot. Each one has a unique feature to check out, and most of them offer well-priced camping.
8) Go whitewater rafting
There are three big spots to choose from to whitewater raft in Maine, the Kennebec, Penobscot, and Dead River. You’ll want to choose your location and guide company based on what level of rafting you want to do.
9) Visit the Seashore Trolley Museum, Kennebunkport
The Seashore Trolley Museum is not your average museum. You’ll be able to take trolley rides and learn about the Maine railways in the local area.
10) Visit Coastal Maine Botanical Garden, Boothbay
The spring time is magical at the botanical gardens, but so is the winter. They host Gardens Aglow leading up to Christmas, where you can walk around thousands of twinkle lights.
11) Visit the Desert of Maine, Freeport
The Desert of Maine is a giant sand dune, in the middle of a forest. Its a really cool adventure stop for your trip, and is a great place to bring kids. They have a campground, playground, hiking trails, tours, a gem hunt, and kids fossil dig site.
12) Shop or eat at the Old Port
This one is a given, and is one of the most visited places every summer. Locals and tourists alike mix in the Old Port during the high season. You’ll find some of the best restaurants and bars as well as an abundance of things to do. Simply walking down Commercial Street is a Maine experience.
13) Tour Fort Knox, Prospect
Fort Knox was built in 1844 to protect against invasions by the British Navy, but never saw battle. Today it is one of New England’s best-preserved forts. Take a tour of both the fort and Penobscot Narrows Observatory (if you’re not afraid of heights).
14) Visit Popham Beach, Phippsburg
Popham Beach is one of only a few non-rocky beaches north of Portland. It is known for great boogie boarding, Striper fishing, and sand castle building. There are two separate parts to the State Park, the beach portion and the fort. You can access sandy beach from either spot.
15) Visit Wild Blueberry Land, Columbia Falls
This spot could qualify for the world’s wildest roadside attractions and is a really cool road trip side trip. A blueberry-colored geodome surrounded by a blueberry-themed mini golf park. Inside they have pies, muffins, scones, baked goods and Maine-themed souvenirs.
16) Check out the Fairy Village, Mackworth Island
A short hike on Mackworth Island will bring you to fairy village. The forest is littered with intricate fairy houses, stay a while and build your own or admire previous works.
17) Visit the B-52 Memorial on Elephant Mountain, Northeast Piscataquis
A short hike from the parking lot is the crash site of a B-52 from January 1963. The plane was on a training mission when it crashed into Elephant Mountain. The remnants of the plane are still at the crash site as a memorial to the crew of the plane.
18) Visit the Artist’s Bridge (covered bridge), Newry
If you’re headed to Sunday River or Bethel the covered bridge is a fantastic photo op. There is a small pull-off before and after the bridge for parking. This parking area can fill up when busy, so be prepared for that.
19) Charter a fishing trip
Fishing is a great way to spend time out on the water. There are a few different types of fishing charter to hire, from Lobster fishing tours to day trips fishing for Stripers.
20) Go on a moose safari
Greenville, Millinocket, Rangeley, Jackman, Bethel, and the lake regions are amazing places to spot moose. You may spot a moose in coastal towns but it is far less likely. Season, time of day, and weather are all factors on how active moose are, and thus your probability of seeing them.
21) Go whale watching
Prime whale watching season in Maine is May through October. Most major coastal towns offer whale-watching tours, I would suggest booking in advance if you’re visiting during the middle of the summer.
22) Drive scenic Route 1
Route 1 will take you through all of the beautiful coastal towns, each one with a unique feature. If you don’t have a specific spot in Maine to visit I would suggest road-tripping up Route 1.
23) See the Lupines at peak season (late June-early July)
The best spots to go looking for Lupines are mostly in the coastal and mountain regions. Camden, Rockland and Boothbay are good coastal towns with lots of Lupine fields. Rangeley and Greenville are mountain spots that have fields overlooking the lakes.
24) Go kayaking
If you own your own kayak there is nearly unlimited options for places to go, and nearly the same amount if you need to rent. Most major towns and lakes have kayak rental locations nearby to help.
25) Try out mountain biking trails
Mountain biking has grown in popularity over the last several years, and with it new trails. If you’re looking for downhill mountain biking try out Mt. Abrams park, or try out any of Maine’s NEMBA trails.
26) Take the ferry to Peaks Island (or one of the other islands)
Leaving from the Portland Ocean Gateway terminal on Commercial Street, the ferry will drop you off on the docks of Peak’s Island. You won’t need a car for this trip unless you have a specific destination in mind. The main inn and restaurant are within a short walking distance of the pier.
27) Visit Perkins Cove, Ogunquit
Perkins Cove is a beautiful summer getaway with Cape Cod vibes. Coastal shops and restaurants are the focus of the little peninsula, with the Marginal Way bike path connecting to the beach.
28) Canoe the Allagash Waterway
Not for the faint of heart, canoeing the Allagash can take over a week, you’ll face portages and minor whitewater. There are a few guide services that you can book through, or you can do it on your own.
29) Visit Baxter State Park
Home of Mt. Katahdin, Baxter State Park is another very popular recreation spot during the summer. Unlimited hiking opportunities for all skill levels. If you visit you will need to book parking in advance for Mt. Katahdin.
30) Take a seaplane ride in Greenville
Curriers Flying Service and Jack’s Air Service offer flightseeing opportunities where you can see Moosehead lake from the sky. If you’re up for an adventure they also offer flights to Mt. Kineo and Mt. Katahdin.
31) Visit L.L. Bean
Another top visited location in Maine, L.L. Bean is a must do. L.L. Bean has grown to be a nationwide store for home, hunting and outdoor gear. The Freeport location is the main campus for L.L. Bean, and they host events all year long that bring fun to freeport.
32) See Stephen King’s house in Bangor
Another roadside attraction that brings people to Bangor is Stephen King’s house. It’s eccentric and perfect to visit in the fall when you’re looking for spooky vibes. Note: It is not open to the public, you’ll have to view from outside the gate.
33) Drive by Walker’s Point, Kennebunkport
Walker’s Point is the summer home of the Bush family and is known to have had some very famous visitors. The compound is well monitored by security and you won’t be able to visit the point, but you can view from the nearby beaches.
34) Check out the Pier in Old Orchard Beach
No summer trip to Maine is complete without visiting the pier. It is lined with shops and has a restaurant and bar at the far end, overhanging the water. Next to the pier is Palace Playland, a small beachside amusement park with boardwalk games and rides.
35) Spend the day at Funtown Splashtown
If you’re looking for some thrill, Funtown is a great place to bring the family. They have classic rides from bumper cars to a wooden rollercoaster and games. Splashtown is the neighboring waterpark that has everything from raft rides and slides to pools. You can get combination or single tickets to either of the parks.
36) Spend the night in a treehouse at In the Trees, Stoneham
In the Trees has three different tree houses to choose from for your stay. The smallest treehouse is the size of a large, realistic treehouse. The largest tree house is quite literally a luxury house in the trees. It makes for a very unique stay, and who gets to say they’ve stayed in a treehouse?
37) Visit the Wire Bridge, New Portland
On the way to Carrabassett Valley is the New Portland Bridge, one of Maine’s last remaining wire bridges. It was built in the 1860’s and renovated to maintain structural integrity in 1960. It is a great spot to take photos and is the star in many New England magazines.
38) See Ripogenus Dam, Northeast Piscataquis
If you’re interested in history and structural feats this is a spot for you. The dam was first constructed in 1853 and upgraded in 1913 to give hydropower to Great Northern Paper Company in Millinocket. If you visit during the late spring after a good rain storm the water will be fast flowing and mesmerising to watch.
39) See fish swim up the Fishway, Brunswick
Visit the Brunswick Fishway viewing room to see fish swimming up river to their spawning grounds. The dam is on the Androscoggin River and gives you the chance to see Alewives, Lampreys, River Herring, Salmon and American Shad. Be sure to check online in advance for viewing room hours and special closures before you visit.
40) Go on a brewery tour
Maine has so many amazing microbreweries and full-scale operations. Foodie tours and individual companies offer brewery tours, such as the brew bus that will take you brewery hopping.
41) Go camping
There is no shortage of choices for camping in Maine. The state parks are absolutely beautiful and affordable where private campgrounds tend to have more amenities and be more expensive. Check Airbnb and Harvesthost for private campsites.
42) Hike Maine’s 4000 footers
If you’re working on your New England 4000 footers, Maine actually has more of them than you would think. Mt. Katahdin is the most popular, followed by Saddleback, Sugarloaf and Old Speck. They all have amazing views and I would suggest getting an early start in the high season.
43) Watch a lobster boat race
Work hard, play hard…right? The most popular races to watch from shore are the Portland, Harpswell, Pemaquid, Winter Harbor and Bass Harbor boat races. The boats are put into classes based on horsepower and fuel type, followed by a few other fun classes such as the tug boats.
44) Go to a fair
There are several opportunities to check out a Maine fair. Towns all over the state host their own, with the top three most popular being the Commonground Fair, Cumberland, and Fryeburg fairs. Most of the fairs are week-long affairs but some like the Commonground Fair are weekend-long.
45) Visit a museum
Depending on the towns that you plan on visiting, the type and amount of museums vary. The best museums are in Portland, Rockland, Camden, Brunswick and Bath.
46) Visit Maine Wildlife Park
If you’re looking to see Maine wildlife check out the wildlife park in Gray. There are over 30 species that live in the park after being rescued and rehabilitated, but unfortunately, most cannot be returned to the wild.
47) Take a ride on the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad
Maine has a long history of using railroads for commercial logging practices. Made specifically for Maine’s unique landscape, the 2-foot wide rails allow the trains to traverse the hills. You can book a ride on the Portland Narrow Gauge Railroad or the Wiscasset, Waterville and Farmington Railway.
48) Try surfing
Surfing, boogie boarding, and kite surfing are popular in the shoulder seasons. The sandy beaches of Southern Maine are perfect for learning to surf. Higgins Beach, Wells Beach, Ogunquit Beach and a few others are good locations and have a host of surf shops.
49) Tour Long Lake on the Songo River Queen
The Songo River Queen is a replica of a Mississippi River Paddle Wheeler. Most public tours of the lake are around 2 hours, and they also offer special cruises such as sunset and concert cruises.
50) See a play at the Ogunquit Play House
A popular place in the summer months, they choose several plays to showcase during the performance season.
I hope that our Maine bucket list helps you plan your perfect trip to Maine, or reminds you of some of the most fun things to do in your home state as well. You don’t have to be visiting from another state to enjoy all that Maine has to offer, get out and explore!
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