Maine Travel Guide

Tourist Guide
Maine
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

Portland Head Light featuring rocky coastline, general coastal views and a lighthouse
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

  • Portland Museum of Art
  • Wadsworth-Longfellow House
  • Maine College of Art
Bar Harbor showing boating and a bay or harbour
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
  • Cadillac Mountain
  • Village Green
Maine showing signage
Newry
Known for Friendly people, Skiing and Rivers

Reasons to visit

  • Sunday River
  • Grafton Notch State Park
Rockland
Rockland
Known for Ports, Museums and Seafood

Reasons to visit

  • Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
  • Maine Lighthouse Museum
Augusta which includes a river or creek and a city
Augusta
Known for Dining, Shopping and Family-friendly
Enjoy the cultural and historic attractions in this friendly New England town along a beautiful river.

Reasons to visit

  • Old Fort Western
Bangor which includes autumn colours
Bangor
Known for Shopping, Dining and Theatres
Walk through the historic streets of the home of horror writer Stephen King and discover heritage buildings, museums and a beautiful countryside.