Maine's Biggest Attractions

May 28, 2011
Sheryl Ritchie

Portland Head Light, Fort Williams Park - Jason Ritchie

Every year visitors flock to Maine to see some of the state's biggest attractions including Acadia National Park, Moosehead Lake, and Portland.

From the vast shorelines to the dramatic mountains, from pristine lakes to quaint towns – there is a reason Maine is known as Vacationland to the thousands of people who visit each year. Here are a few of Maine's biggest attractions:

Acadia National Park

One of the most visited national parks in the country and a top tourist destination in Maine, Acadia National Park can’t be beat for its spectacular views. Located in Downeast Maine, most of the park is located on Mt. Desert Island which is also home to the picturesque Bar Harbor. A family-friendly destination, the park offers hiking, biking, horseback riding, carriage rides, and rock climbing. Visitors also can explore the park by car along the 27-mile Park Loop Road. In addition, a hike or car ride to the top of Cadillac Mountain - the highest peak on the North Atlantic Coast – allows visitors panoramic views of Frenchman Bay and Bar Harbor.

Baxter State Park

Nicknamed Maine’s Yellowstone, Baxter State Park stretches over 200,000 acres and includes 46 mountain peaks. Marking the end of the Appalachian Trail, the infamous Mt. Katahdin is one of the park’s biggest attractions, standing approximately 5,200 feet tall. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to the park for its variety of both summer and winter activities including hiking, biking, mountain climbing, and skiing.

Moosehead Lake

Located in the Baxter State Park region, this nature lover’s playground is quickly becoming a top vacation spot for those who relish peace and quiet. Boating, hiking, and white water rafting are just a few of the activities the region offers – and there’s more than enough to satisfy any outdoor enthusiast. However, others come just to get a glimpse of the famous animal that inspired the Lake’s name. Claiming to have more moose than people, this region boasts some of the best moose watching in the country.

The Beaches

Most people don’t think of Maine as a beach resort state, but with miles of pristine white sand shorelines, Maine’s beaches are some of the state's biggest attractions. From York to Ogunquit to Kennebunk, Maine hosts thousands of beachgoers each summer. The Southern Maine Coast is at the heart of the beach communities and includes the ever-popular seaside resort, Old Orchard Beach.

The Islands

Maine has an estimated 3,000 islands dotting its coastline, though only fifteen have year-round residents. While a few of the islands are accessible by road, many require a trip by ferry or personal watercraft. Maine’s islands offer breathtaking scenery as well as a chance to experience a unique aspect of Maine living. Check ferry schedules before planning a trip.

L.L. Bean

No trip to Maine is complete without a visit to the L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport. The famous Bean Boot greets visitors as they arrive and makes for a unique photo opportunity. "Beans," as it is known to the locals, is more of an event than a shopping experience; this megastore sells everything from clothing to kayaks, furniture to fishing gear, and books to backpacks. In addition, the store offers a variety of outdoor clinics such as fishing and snowshoeing, and hosts a free summer concert series with top name performers. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, this is retail therapy at its best.

Portland

Located on the Casco Bay, Maine’s largest city has something for even the most particular traveler. Visitors cherish the charm of The Old Port – a blend of a working waterfront with unique, upscale shops and restaurants. Just a short drive from downtown Portland, visitors can experience views of the Bay from Maine’s oldest lighthouse, Portland Head Light, located in Fort Williams Park in nearby Cape Elizabeth. And food lovers rejoice – Portland was praised as "one of the best places to eat in the Northeast" by The New York Times. With something for everyone, it is easy to see why Portland was voted "America’s Most Livable City" by Forbes.com.