best vacation spots in maine

Where Are the Best Vacation Spots in Maine?

Maine is an ideal travel destination any time of year, with nearly endless opportunities to enjoy an active retirement lifestyle. With a vast forest system, nearly 4,000 miles of coastline, and towns booming with local culture, there is something for everyone in the Pine Tree state. Below, we’ve put together some of the best vacation spots in Maine, for you to take advantage of any time of year!

The Kennebunks

This quaint set of seaside towns, which includes Kennebunkport, Kennebunk, Goose Rocks Beach and Cape Porpoise, is perfect any time of year for a vacation. Enjoy a leisurely long weekend browsing the boutique shops, grabbing cocktails overlooking the Kennebunk River, or soak up the sun at the local beaches. If you have time, try to squeeze in a whale watching excursion – not only is it a beautiful trip out to sea, it will give you the chance to spot humpbacks and even blue whales! 

Bangor

The town of Bangor is known for its eerie history (it’s home to the famous Stephen King, after all!) so it’s perfect if you’re interested in a trip that’s a little out of the ordinary. Ghost hunters and history buffs alike flock to Bangor – there are excellent walking tours that highlight some of the spookiest and most paranormal spots in town.

Portland

Portland, which has been declared one of the best foodie cities in the country, is packed with restaurants, breweries and distilleries as far as the eye can see. Walk through the cobblestone streets of this coastal city, explore the cool local art, and eat your way through the incredible food scene. It’s hard to go wrong with a long weekend in Portland! Another added perk? While you’re in town be sure to visit stunning Peaks Island, just a quick 15-minute ferry trip from Portland, for a true island escape!

Cumberland

Cumberland is a beautiful town with a deep local history and unique culture. If you’re looking for an outdoorsy vacation, there are plenty of outdoor activities for you to enjoy. Experience the professional 18-hole golf course at Val Halla, one of the best in the state. Walk, jog, cross-country ski or snowshoe through the sprawling Twin Brook Recreation area, with miles of trails along a bubbling river. 

Bath

Bath is a small city, but that doesn’t take away from it’s unique beauty! Notorious for its 19th century architecture and extensive history of shipbuilding (it’s nicknamed the “City of Ships”) this is a location perfect for history buffs. Explore the Maine Maritime Museum and Maine Eastern Railroad to learn about the unique story of this Maine city. Looking to work up a sweat? Hike the Whiskeag Trail – the popular trail in the area!

Harpswell

If you’re looking for a relaxed weekend in a classic coastal town, Harpswell is where you want to visit. This town gives you an iconic Maine experience, where you can mosey around rural fishing villages, grab food from local country stores and enjoy melt-in-your-mouth lobster fresh off the boat. Make sure you drive to the end of Bailey Island to see the Giant’s Stairs along the crisp Atlantic (and treat yourself to a lobster roll!)

Acadia National Park & Bar Harbor

Acadia National Park is a classic Maine adventure, truly one of the best vacation spots in Maine. The Bar Harbor area is absolutely gorgeous any time of year, and there is no shortage of activities to take advantage of. Explore the town’s boutiques, rent bikes and ride the trails, or take a hike – the possibilities are endless!

Millinocket

Millinocket isn’t necessarily a town you’d visit on it’s own, but it’s the perfect home base for hiking Mount Katahdin or exploring the glorious Baxter State Park. With hundreds of acres of preserved forest and mountains, this would make for a wonderfully adventurous vacation!

Old Orchard Beach

This quirky beachside town is a fun destination if you’re looking for some old-fashioned entertainment! With its waterfront amusement park, complete with rides, games and fair food, you could easily spend a day simply walking through the town. It’s set on a gorgeous sprawling beach, halved by a long ocean pier with even more restaurants and shops! 

Cumberland Crossing by OceanView

Cumberland Crossing by OceanView is an active senior retirement community centrally located in Cumberland, Maine. Our community offers the retirement you’ve dreamed of. Take advantage of your retirement years with maintenance-free living so you can do what you love most! To learn more about our active retirement community, please contact us today!