Looking for the best weekend getaways in Maine? Look no further! Maine is a state that offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and historic architecture, making it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway. If you’re planning on visiting Maine soon and need some inspiration on where to spend your weekends, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of the 13 best weekend getaways in Maine that offer something unique and exciting for every type of traveler. Explore the quaint town of Kennebunkport with its charming shops, restaurants, and galleries, or head to Acadia National Park to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in New England. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to one of the best weekend getaways in Maine!
1. Portland
Portland is the largest city in the state and is often what people think of when they think of Maine. It is a great place to escape the cold, especially during the winter months when temperatures in the state often stay below freezing. Compared to the rest of the state, it is also the most accessible transportation and accessibility for disabled travelers.
Portland is one of the few cities in the state with an airport, and numerous bus and train routes come in and out of the city. The city is a unique destination for foodies, with a booming culinary scene that includes lobster shacks and high-end restaurants. Finally, Portland is also home to many great art and cultural institutions, including the Portland Museum of Art, the Oregon Maritime Museum, and the Portland Observatory.
The other must-visit attraction in Portland is the renowned Victoria Mansion. It is an 1800s-era building with a stunning interior. You could also tour Cape Elizabeth or the Casco Bay Islands for splendid excursions.
2. Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is among the best weekend getaways in Maine and one of the most popular tourist destinations. The first thing that comes to mind when one mentions Bar Harbor is probably the beautiful views of the ocean, hiking trails, and Cadillac Mountain, the highest elevation along the Maine coastline.
If you are visiting in the summer months, catch a ride on the Bar Harbor Ferry, which lets you explore the beautiful waters of the bay. Bar Harbor is also an excellent place for shopping, with numerous souvenir shops, art galleries, and Harbor Fish Market, which is well-known for having the best lobster rolls in the state.
Bar harbor has a colorful scenery and nautical history to explore. You can visit the Jesup Memorial Library or the La Rochelle Mansion and Museum for a historical catch-up. Some exciting activities you can enjoy here include fishing, sailing, and swimming in turquoise waters.
3. Bangor
It is a quirky tourist destination for any solo traveler or hip couple. Once you set foot in Bangor, check out the Cole Land Transportation Museum. Here you will explore an exciting collection of vehicles used in the state for a long time. These may include logging vehicles and antique fire trucks.
You could also stroll down the Orono Bog Boardwalk and enjoy spectacular wildlife and bird watching. Explore Darling’s Waterfront Pavilion, an outdoor concert arena for performances. If you want to learn more about the history of Bangor, check out the Maine Forest & Logging Museum near Bradley.
Other attractions include Zillman Art Museum and the Portland Pie Company, where you can enjoy diverse culinary choices from Japanese to Indian.
4. Rockland
Rockland is one of the best weekend getaways in Maine if you love arts and culture. The city is home to the Farnsworth Art Museum, the Maine Lighthouse Museum, and the Center for Maine Contemporary Art. Rockland is also a great place to shop, with several small retail shops and boutiques.
The city is also a popular destination when the leaves in the surrounding countryside change color during the fall.
Rockland boasts historic architecture, breathtaking coastal views, and a traditional New England charm. You could also explore the Coastal Children’s Museum with your family.
If you wish to stay in Rockland for a few days, check out the Old Granite Inn for exquisite services for the entire family. You could also stay at the 250 Main Hotel for striking views.
5. Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport should be your next destination if you want a relaxing, low-key vacation. It is a tranquil and peaceful town, especially in winter, when it is often one of the state’s first places to get snowfall.
Kennebunkport is a marvelous place to tour if you want to enjoy the great outdoors, with many nearby hiking trails, accessible kayaking excursions, and other nature-related activities. There are also several nearby wineries and vineyards if you are more of a wine person.
This one of the best weekend getaways in Maine is famous for its stunning lighthouses and breathtaking sandy beaches. The city is full of activities, especially during summer. Once you visit the town, try the Intown Trolley Tour for a sightseeing excursion.
Also, remember that many festivals and events happen here all year round, making it a fascinating destination. Check out the superb accommodation facilities in Kennebunkport, such as the 1802 House Bed and Breakfast Inn.
6. Boothbay Harbor
Boothbay Harbor should be next on your to-do list if you are a nature lover. It is surrounded by natural beauty and is home to the Bay of Fundy, which has some of the highest tides in the world. There are many great activities in the area, whether you love the outdoors, museums, or both.
You can go hiking, kayaking, and canoeing. Boothbay Harbor is also the boating capital of New England, meaning you can engage in diverse boating activities. The city has a rich maritime history, and the top activities to enjoy here revolve around water.
There are several excellent museums in the area, including the Boothbay Region Historical, Boothbay Region Art Foundation, and Boothbay Railway Village.
7. Acadia National Park
Found on Mount Desert Island, Acadia National Park is one of the best places to experience the natural beauty of Maine. It is home to various picturesque landscapes and terrains, including forests, mountains, dunes, and coastal areas.
Acadia also has several different ecosystems, making it a great place to see wildlife, especially birds. Visitors can engage in many activities in Acadia, including hiking, wildlife watching, kayaking, or exploring one of the many trails that lead to scenic overlooks.
Casual pedestrians and cyclists will also enjoy memorable moments on the 57 miles of carriage roads. Among the best weekend getaways in Maine in the park is Cadillac Mountain, where you can catch breathtaking bay views. Hike the Ocean Path as you explore the shoreline. You could try Beech Mountain or Great Head Trail.
8. Cranberry Isles
The Cranberry Isles are a group of small islands off the coast of Maine that are often overlooked as a tourist destination, but they’re an excellent place for a quiet, offbeat vacation. There are a few small communities on the islands where you can explore the area’s rich history, go on nature walks, or attend one of the local festivals.
Cranberry Isles is just 30 minutes away from Bar Harbor via ferry. The islands offer striking views of the mountains, making them an ideal outdoor destination. There are several great spots for fishing, swimming, windsurfing, or exploring by boat, depending on the season.
If you want to get off the grid completely, you can even rent one of the island cottages and get away from it all during the weekend. Tour the Great Cranberry and Islesford for more action. You could also explore the general stores, historic homes, and gift shops.
9. Windjammer Cruise
A cruise is a unique way to experience a different destination while returning home in just a few days. And there’s probably no better place to go cruising than Maine on the windjammers.
A windjammer cruise could be one of the best weekend getaways in Maine as you explore the area. Even though there are daily sailing tours in Maine, the wind jammer is the most magical cruise you could ever take. You can cruise along the coast, stopping at various ports to explore.
You could take the Victory Chimes as it departs from Rockland and is among the country’s largest passenger sailing jammer. Enjoy finger-licking Maine seafood while on these sails.
10. Eastport
If you are looking for the ideal backdrop, a peaceful and quiet weekend getaway in Maine, visit Eastport. It’s an eastern U.S. city farther east than Boston, with about 1,100 residents. It is among the less crowded destinations in Maine.
You could relax at Passamaquoddy Bay, a picturesque bay to birdwatch and spot whales. It is where you can also spot a few dolphins as they wade their way through.
Ensure you also check out Quoddy Head State Park and explore the Quoddy Head Light, which has existed since the 1800s. The quaint downtown part of town orchestrates several restaurants and shops where you can stroll. You could also take part in deep sea fishing excursions for an unforgettable moment in Eastport.
If you love bonding with nature, you can check out the different parks near Eastport. They may include Cranberry Bog County Park, Kaler’s Pond Park, Indian Island County Park, and Terrell River County Park.
11. Camden
Camden is one of the most picturesque places to visit and one of the best weekend getaways in Maine. This coastal town is known as the “Gateway to Maine” because of its location, just south of the state’s border with New Hampshire.
Camden’s scenic harbor is filled with lobster boats, fishing vessels, and yachts all year round, making it one of the most active ports on the East Coast. This little town is known for its charming architecture, with many historic buildings and Victorian houses. There are many fun activities in Camden, including taking a scenic walk along the Breakwater, visiting the Camden Hills State Park, and taking a tour of the Coast Guard facilities.
You could also check Maiden’s Cliff for panoramic views of the lake and countryside. If you fancy water sports, try paddle boarding and sailing here for the most pleasure. Sunbath at Barett’s Cove, or check out Megunticook Lake.
12. Sebago lake
Sebago Lake is also among the best weekend getaways in Maine. This scenic lake is located in southern Maine, just an hour north of Portland and among the popular destinations in the state. Sebago lake is a stunning place for all types of water activities, from fishing, sailing, and kayaking to swimming, tubing, and water skiing.
The 45 square miles freshwater lake is surrounded by wooded hills, offering beautiful views for visitors of all ages. If you are looking for a calm, quiet lake to take a leisurely swim, or if you are looking for a more adventure-filled experience, Sebago Lake is the perfect place for you.
You can rent numerous cottages and lakeside resorts for accommodation. It is where you will also find jet skis and kayaks for hire. You could also explore Sebago Lake State Park for lovely and quiet moments. Golfers can play at the courses in Casco and Frye Island.
13. Cutler
Cutler is one of the most beautiful and secluded towns in Maine. Nestled among the mountains of rural Franklin County, this unassuming town is home to just a few hundred people. The peacefulness of the city is apparent from the moment you arrive.
Many small Maine towns have preserved their old-fashioned charm, but Cutler takes it to a new level. Cutler is authentic, from the breathtaking coastline to the shops and restaurants. Several hiking trails run through the surrounding woods, but this is a place of solitude for the most part. If you are looking for a peaceful getaway that is still close to Maine’s major cities, Cutler is an attractive choice.
You could camp at the Cutler Coast Public Reserved Land or take the Cutler Bold Coast Trail to uncover the unknown in this small town.
Conclusion
Maine is a state full of natural beauty, small towns, and friendly people. It’s also a great place to escape the cold and experience the summer or fall weather without traveling very far. With so many great destinations within a day-trip distance, it’s easy to find a place to go and experience the natural beauty that makes Maine so unique.
Maine is a state that offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, and historic architecture. It is no wonder why it has become such a popular tourist destination over the years. If you’re planning on visiting Maine soon and need some inspiration on where to spend your weekends, we’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of 13 best weekend getaways in Maine that offer something unique and exciting for every type of traveler. Explore the quaint town of Kennebunkport with its charming shops, restaurants and galleries or head to Acadia National Park to experience some of the most beautiful scenery in New England.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
What are the weekend getaways East Coast?
If you are looking for the ideal getaway destinations on the East Coast, here are some of them. You can visit Outer Banks, Cape Cod, Bar Harbor, Newport, Cape May, or Rehoboth Beach.
What are the perfect destinations for couples?
Couples can visit either Big Sur, Sedona, Charleston, Maine, Martha’s Vineyard, or Palm Springs.
What are the top romantic weekend getaways in New Hampshire?
Visit any of these destinations in New Hampshire for the best experiences. They include the Wentworth, Stonehurst Manor, Chesterfield Inn, and White Mountain Hotel & Resort.
