17 Reasons Why Maine Is The BEST State

As I've surely mentioned in the past, I love writing these articles because it allows me to think about, look at and experience Maine on a daily basis. Another reason I love it is you, the readers. It's not every day that you can be surrounded (okay, maybe just on the internet) by people who completely agree with your opinion! And, I have to believe that every single one of you agrees that Maine is the best state in the country. Whether you live here or make a yearly pilgrimage to Vacationland, I think you'll agree with these 17 reasons why Maine is the best state in the USA.

1. We're a true gem! Maine has among the biggest zinc and copper deposits in the country. We also have tourmaline, amethyst, topaz and garnet.

This is Sodalite and Cancrinite from Litchfield.

2. We're actually pretty big! Geographically Maine is bigger than the other five New England States combined.

3. You can live the island life here. With 3,166 islands, if you visited one a day, it would take you almost 9 years to see them all!

But, some might be only a short visit. Only about 1,200 Maine coast islands have an acre or more, 600 comprise 95% of the island acreage.

4. The depth of our many harbors' would allow us to provide anchorage for all the Navy fleets in the world.

5. Maine has 542,629 acres of state and national parks.

You have no excuse to leave the state for a hike!

6. You can spend a night in the city...

7. ...wake up for a hike in the mountains

8. ...then head to the beach for a perfect end to the day.

9. Maine is home to the best boat builders in the world!

Such as: Hinckley, Sabre, Back Cove, Duffy, Morse Yachts, Egg Harbor, Calvin Beal, Robert Stevens, Old Town Canoe, Downeast, LL Bean, Atlantic, and The Landing School.

10. Maine has a state dessert AND a state treat!

In 2011, the Maine House approved a compromise that would declare the whoopie pie the state "treat," while making the blueberry pie the state’s official "dessert." Of the decision, House Speaker Robert Nutting said, "off the record, I would say a heavy load has been lifted off our plate." Apparently, Maine has jokes too!

11. Speaking of Maine "State-Things," we basically invented our state's official berry, the blueberry. Over 90% of the country's blueberry crop is grown here.

12. And, our state bird is a true Mainer! The Black-Capped Chickadee is non-migratory, meaning it stays in Maine year-round.

And YOU thought winter was hard. Try living outside!

13. Maine has over 32,000 miles of rivers and streams.

14. ...and, over 6,000 lakes and ponds.

15. Our sunrises are worth waking up for.

16. ...and our sunsets are the perfect way to end your long day.

(NOTE: waking up for sunrise automatically means you've had a long day!)

17. Most importantly, with 67 lighthouses, Maine is a state that will always happily guide you home.

We'd love to hear what you have to say. Head to our Facebook page and let us know why YOU think Maine is the best state!