26 Exciting Things to Do in Maine in 2026 (You’ll Want to Save This List)

Maine was one of the first states I traveled to outside of the New Jersey tri-state area as a kid, as my mother and I took several bus trips there when I was in elementary and middle school. I have so many fond memories of the Pine Tree State, from its beautiful landscapes to its unique attractions and, of course, its amazing restaurants and delicious fresh seafood. I visited again solo after my childhood best friend moved there for college, but I haven't been back in some time. That's likely to change this year, so it got me thinking about what I want to see most.

With the tourism scene evolving and new local gems opening, 2026 is the perfect year to rediscover the state's rugged coastlines and vibrant small towns. Whether you are planning a summer lobster bake or a scenic autumn foliage tour, timing your visit according to the different seasons ensures you experience the very best of New England. My Maine bucket list for the rest of 2026 is full of new adventures and some of my past favorites, and I hope my picks inspire you to have some adventures of your own.

1. Take a Winter Staycation

I always like to take a little time at the start of the year to decompress with a staycation, and this winter cabin near Bethel has been on my radar for a while. It's only 15 minutes from the nearby Sunday River Ski Resort and sleeps up to 10 guests, so it's a perfect choice for a getaway with friends. It's rustic, but with all the amenities you'd want in an Airbnb, so book your stay today at one of the coziest cabins in Maine!

2. Explore Maine's Maritime Roots

One of my favorite YouTubers, Jacob the Carpetbagger, has what he calls the "Eum Rule," which means he tries to visit every museum in an area when he's there. I might not manage that, but there's one museum in Popham I can't wait to see – the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath. Dedicated to Maine's relationship with the sea, it's full of incredible artifacts and restorations of famous ships.

You can navigate the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath using paved and gravel walkways suitable for strollers and wheelchairs. Also, note that the attraction is only about 40-45 minutes from Portland/Augusta. Plan to spend 2-4 hours viewing the exhibits and touring, and allow additional time for boat trips. 

Regarding the family-friendly nature of this attraction, please note that it offers something for everyone, including children of all ages, from those under five to those over five.

3. Celebrate Spring With a Botanical Garden Hike

As winter begins to fade, one place I can't wait to visit is the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. Found in Boothbay, this winding destination is filled with beautiful plants that change with the seasons, massive troll sculptures, and even a charming hidden cafe, an amazing place to hang out and get a light meal when you're done exploring.

If you would like to see the peak blooms, such as lilacs or peonies, visit the botanical garden in late spring. However, the summer period is the best time to see the area’s lush greenery. Likewise, this botanical garden is very accessible with paved paths, a shuttle service, and even mobility scooter rentals.

4. Kick off May With an Amazing Spring Festival

Kennebunk is one of my favorite spots in southern Maine, and it's also home to the state's annual May Day Festival. This full day of events kicks off with a pancake breakfast and then swings into a massive farmers market with live music, crafts, and a charming parade filled with amusing floats celebrating the town and state's unique culture.

The major event is usually held annually on the first Saturday of May, which helps ensure maximum community participation. The official Kennebunk, ME website can inform you about the schedule of main events in advance.

5. Stay in a Real Castle

When it comes to hotels, I usually pick mid-range chains with nice amenities, but some specialty hotels really call for a bucket list stay. A perfect example is the Norumbega Inn in Camden. This boutique bed & breakfast is located in an actual miniature castle that was a private home for a century. With only 11 rooms, you can expect personalized service and an amazing breakfast if you book a stay.

Some rooms vary in size, and some have balconies or ocean views. Additionally, given the inn's popularity, it is recommended to make bookings in advance, especially during peak seasons. 

6. Track Down the Best Fried Fish in Maine

Every trip is a culinary trip for me, and I'm always on the prowl for some of the best hidden gems. When in Maine, seafood takes priority, and it doesn't get better than Bet's Fish Fry. This casual seafood shack in Boothbay is known for its crispy fried fish and decadent desserts. When the weather is nice, grab a seat at the picnic tables outside.

It is essential to note that Bet’s Fish Fry, like many Maine seafood shacks, operates on a seasonal basis. It typically operates during the warmer tourist season, generally late spring or early summer.

7. Test My Limits at Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is one of my favorite spots in Maine thanks to its stunning landscapes and winding network of trails. One I've never tackled is Precipice Loop, a challenging trail that combines hiking with a climbing course featuring installed iron handholds. Will I make it all the way through this 2.6-mile hike? We'll see, but I'll definitely have AllTrails+ when I try; this is the kind of hike the app is made for.

Generally, the trails in this national park require extreme caution, particularly due to cliff edges, slippery granite, and high traffic. For instance, the Precipice Trail is not safe for children, during wet conditions, or for those with a fear of heights. The good news is that there are many alternative routes, such as the flatter Carriage Roads or the less-crowded Schoodic Peninsula.

8. Explore Historic Portland

While many of my plans center around the small towns and natural gems of Maine, there's no question that I want to explore Maine's biggest and most iconic city. Portland is home to the most historic buildings of any city in the United States, and that made me think the best way to see it is through an organized tour. You can walk around the old port, which features compact, walkable cobblestone streets lined with shops, restaurants, and stunning waterfront views. Book a spot on one of Maine's best tours on Fever.

9. Visit Maine's Most Iconic Lighthouse

If there's an iconic sight in Maine, it must be the Portland Headlight. This towering lighthouse on the coast of Cape Elizabeth is the most photographed in the country. It dates back to 1787 and was lit for the first time four years later. You can walk right up to it and explore the stunning area surrounding it at Fort Williams Park. It's truly one of the most beautiful lighthouses in Maine.

You should arrive early at Fort Williams Park, especially on weekends or during the summer, for better paid parking options. Free parking is available only during the off-season, typically from November to April or May.

10. Head (Really) off the Beaten Path for Seafood

It's no surprise that many of Maine's best restaurants are found hidden in small towns, but there likely isn't one more remote than the world-famous seafood restaurant found on Bailey Island. Right off the Atlantic is where you'll find Cook's Lobster and Ale House. The lobster rolls are top-notch, but I'm likely to go ahead and get a whole steamed lobster, the catch of the day.

Bailey Island is a drive-on island, making it very accessible. You will access it by driving across the unique Cribstone Bridge, which connects the island to the mainland in Harpswell.

11. Take a Maine Beach Vacation

Coming from New Jersey, the shore is where I spend most of my summers. So, naturally, I had to look up Maine's beaches. One of the most beautiful ones, Laudholm Beach, is in The Wells Reserve. Surrounded by small trails and plenty of plant life, the beach is crystal clear and feels like taking a surprise trip to the Caribbean.

The swimming conditions at Laudholm Beach tend to vary, so expect brisk temperatures and waves. Additionally, water quality can be affected by bacteria, particularly after rainfall. Check the Maine Healthy Beaches website for real-time water quality advisories. However, the beach is generally great for walks, wildlife spotting, and enjoying a dip in the calm ocean waters.

12. Celebrate Maine's Most Iconic Food

When people go to Maine, what's the first thing they look for? Lobster! I've always been a big fan of this seafood delicacy, and what better place to experience it than at the Maine Lobster Festival? Typically held the first week of August, this Rockland event features lobster rolls, fresh steamed lobsters, dozens of booths offering seafood and other fair treats, and live entertainment. It's one of the best summer festivals in Maine. Add this event to next year's to-do list if you missed it this summer. Although general admission to the lobster festival is free, you may need to have a ticket or make a payment to access certain events within the festival.

13. Notch Another Entry on My Dark Ride Bucket List

One of my favorite things to do when traveling is visiting regional theme parks, and if the park has a haunted house or unique dark ride, that's my first stop. Funtown Splashtown, Maine's biggest theme park in Saco, recently opened an interactive dark ride called Haunted Hotel, and this spooky laser gun attraction looks like it will turn the park into an even more must-visit.

The Haunted Hotel's design makes it generally a family-friendly, all-ages spooky experience. Because it is not that terrifying, it suits even young children who enjoy slightly spooky themes. Please note that this hotel operates seasonally, with a primary focus on summer fun.

14. Travel to Maine's Very Own Desert

The Desert of Maine, a desert in a cold-weather climate, might be one of the most unique attractions in the country. Formed by drifting sand on what was once a family farm in Freeport, the area is now covered with 40 acres of sand dunes. Turned into a tourist attraction with plenty of desert-themed decorations, this quirky location is a true Maine original.

Note that this is not a true desert. When you visit, you can walk a mile-long path with interpretive signs that explain the area's history and geology. You will also get a chance to participate in mini-golf and access a natural playground.

15. End the Summer With a Bang

One event in Maine I've always wanted to experience is the Skowhegan State Fair, held for over 200 years in Skowhegan. State fairs are always fun, chaotic events, and this one is no exception. The annual state fair features dozens of carnival rides, live entertainment, and livestock events. Held for 10 days in the middle of August, it's a great way to send off summer in style. Add it to next year's bucket list if you couldn't make it this summer. The fair is Maine’s oldest and attracts big crowds. For this reason, accommodations fill up quickly, so it is advisable to make early bookings.

16. Take a Bar Harbor Getaway

Bar Harbor is one of the first towns in Maine I remember visiting as a kid, and its beauty blew me away. Between its small-town charm and proximity to Acadia National Park, it's one of my favorite spots, even more so because it's home to the Bar Harbor Inn. The historic inn and spa along the water blew me away with a quick look, and I consider it a bucket list-worthy hotel in Maine.

Bookings are essential for key aspects of a visit to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park, especially during the peak season, typically from May to October. You may need to book accommodations, make restaurant reservations, and obtain vehicle entry permits for specific areas of the national park.

17. Take in Fall Foliage and Waterfalls

Maine is an amazing spot for sightseeing when fall rolls around, as the state's many parks and forests turn into a kaleidoscope of colors. The fall foliage tends to make the waterfalls especially beautiful, making the season the best time to take this waterfall road trip. I'm not sure how many of these falls I'll get to visit, but they all look stunning.

Peak foliage in Maine usually occurs from late September to late October. However, the timing of peak foliage may vary by region: Northern Maine peaks first (late September or early October), central/mountains around Indigenous Peoples' Day (mid-October), while southern & coastal areas see their best colors from mid-October through Halloween. The exact timing will depend on the weather and the area’s elevation.

18. Dine at Maine's Ultimate Farm-to-Table Restaurant

Maine has always been amazing for experiencing locally grown and sourced food, and you don't get much closer to the source than 122 Corson in the small town of Mercer. Surrounded by rolling hills, this working farm and restaurant serves a scrumptious seasonal menu of local food. The farm also hosts cooking classes, so you can learn to bring out the best in these ingredients. Because the 122 Corson in Maine offers a unique, on-farm dining experience, it is a popular spot that fills up faster. Therefore, make reservations.

19. Climb a Mountain – or Six

Acadia National Park is the gift that keeps on giving, thanks to its massive network of trails. There are several towering mountains in the park, and one unique trail allows you to summit six of them. At 5.9 miles and with a 1,738-foot elevation gain, Six Summits isn't a quick or easy hike, but it's an adventure worth taking. I'll have AllTrails + with me, and if you're planning multiple trips to Acadia this year, consider the America the Beautiful Pass, which offers free admission to this national gem.

To access the Acadia National Park, you will need a year-round entrance pass and a separate vehicle reservation for Cadillac Summit Road during the peak season, often from May to October.

20. Track Down Spectacular Cider Donuts

Fall is cider season, and I always look forward to digging into seasonal treats. Maine is home to quite a few apple orchards, and I'm most excited to visit Thompson's Orchard in New Gloucester. Not only is the selection of u-pick apples top-notch, but the cider donuts are amazing – sweet, crumbly, and with an unmistakable pop of apple flavor.

The apple season in Maine typically runs from August to October. However, September is the peak month for picking. On the other hand, peak donut availability is mainly during the summer months. Because they sell out quickly, especially in popular local shops, it's best to visit before noon to ensure the best selection.

21. Get Scared Silly for Halloween

Maine might not be the most famous New England destination for Halloween, but the Pine Tree State offers amazing spooky activities for kids and adults alike. I'm very excited about the ghost tours provided by Wicked Walking Tours in Portland. Experienced guides lead the tours, which sell out quickly in October, and share the state's eeriest ghost stories.

22. Indulge at Maine's Best Restaurant

Maine might not have any Michelin Stars yet, but if one is going to take that title, there's a good chance it will be Primo Restaurant in Rockland. Originally a small Italian restaurant, it's evolved into a unique nose-to-tail celebration of pork and other meats. A look at the menu indicates it offers an incredibly varied selection of local produce and unique proteins.

The Primo Restaurant in Rockland changes its menu seasonally and even daily, as it is a farm-to-table establishment. The offerings reflect what is currently being harvested. It is situated in a charming old farmhouse, featuring cozy dining spaces and a more casual area upstairs, perfect for special occasions.

23. Spend a Weekend at The Gingerbread

The start of winter is an amazing time for a getaway, and there's no place more festive than The Gingerbread. Only 10 minutes from the Sunday River, this charming modern cabin sleeps up to 10 guests and offers unique amenities, including a game room and an outdoor fire pit. One of the most significant selling points is the stunning views of the nearby forest.

Expect heavy snow, which requires 4WD/AWD and good winter tires for safe navigation. However, the snowy conditions offer an opportunity to enjoy classic winter fun activities like skiing.

24. Go on a Shopping Spree at Maine's Most Famous Department Store

It's not often a chain store is a must-visit destination when traveling, but the LL Bean in Freeport is no ordinary store. This sprawling retail destination is the world's largest outpost of the beloved outerwear chain and features wildlife dioramas, an outdoor entertainment venue, and a vast selection of shopping. This store is a Maine landmark.

Even if you're not a shopper, you can still tour the store to take a picture with the 16-foot-tall boot. In addition, you can watch fish swim in the indoor pond and see taxidermied animals, especially the famous Locked Moose.

25. Experience a Victorian Christmas

Victoria Mansion, a stunning museum filled with artifacts, is one of Maine's most iconic spots. It's typically open for only a limited time, which makes Christmas at Victoria Mansion one of the hottest tickets in town. Every room is decorated to the nines, and there isn't a more festive spot in Maine. You'll need to buy tickets online via their website for the specific dates and times you want, as they sell out quickly.

26. Visit a Quaint Coastal Art Village

This listing would be incomplete without mentioning a visit to Quaint Coastal Art Village. It is a charming fishing village that's perfect for craftsmen and artists. When here, you can watch beautiful artisans' paintings, stroll through galleries, and even enjoy the peaceful harbor views.

Good to know: When visiting, be sure to arrive early since this spot is popular and attracts many tourists.

What's on your Maine bucket list for the rest of 2026? Do any of these adventures appeal to you? If so, tell a travel buddy about this list and start planning because exploring is always more fun with friends. Use the Only In Your State itinerary planner to map out your stops, manage travel time, and build a custom Maine adventure that fits your schedule. Maine's small towns and cities are fantastic, but I'd be surprised if many people visit the Pine Tree State without stopping in Portland. If you have adventures planned anywhere in Maine, check out this list of the best hotels and resorts in Maine to ensure you have a comfortable night's sleep.