Posted in Maine
September 17, 2016
Do Not Do These 10 Touristy Things In Maine. Here’s What To Do Instead.
It’s certainly not hard to find things to do in Maine. No matter the season, there are plenty of guidebooks to give you advice on where to go, what to see and how to eat. But, what if you were to ditch the tourist-ready travel book and try the less obvious options? Your trip would be just as fantastic, but a little more unique. We love the tourist attractions as much as the next person. In fact, they’re a big part of what makes Maine what it is. While we will always love the tried-and-true museums and trails, here are just a few options for trying something new.
This network of preserved historical buildilngs - including homes, a school, jail, wharf, art gallery, and even a burial grounds provide a fascinating glimpse into how the region operated when it first began.
This museum, filled with Mid-Century Modern art is situated overlooking the ocean and is just a few miles away from downtown and the beaches. You'll find lots of pieces from artists that are (and were) part of the largest art colonies in the state.
This lovely farm is fun for adults and children, alike! There's more to do here than will fit in this article, but trust us when we say that anyone who loves Maine and being outdoors and adore this place. There's weekend programming virtually every weekend - including concerts, workshops and lessons - and you can even camp right on the shores! October 1st is their Harvest Dance, featuring Maine favorite's The Mallett Brothers Band.
They not only have the most clever name in Maine, they also serve up some absolutely gourmet dishes. This place is NOT to be confused with a quick eats taco joint. If you want authentic and delicious Mexican with a fresh and local feel, this is for you. Visit them at 41 Caterpillar Hill Road, Sargentville / 207-359-2486.
This farmhouse is the reason we have Andrew Wyeth's most-loved painting, Christina’s World. It's located about 20 minutes from Rockland and it's where Andrew Wyeth spent his summers. One day, he looked outside and saw Christina Olson, who had polio, pulling herself through the lawn. If you're an art lover, you'll love the tour despite its hefty $20 price tag.
This unique spot was founded in 1965 by George McEvoy, who operated it as a private enterprise until 1981 when it became a non-profit. Today visitors are treated to rides in a coal-fired train that circles the area. Along the way, you'll be able to stop at any of the 24 historic buildings to discover some of the very unique oddities placed inside. We can't recommend this spot enough!
While we can't put down the other local diners here, if you want a great home-cooked meal in a local atmosphere, Deb's is awesome. With unique specials and a perfectly baked break, you won't be disappointed here. Unless you can't get a seat. Then you should be pretty bummed because you're missing out.
In Downeast Maine, Cutler Coast Public Lands is a gorgeous place to visit with very few tourists. This 12,334-acre area has a variety of ecosystems including 4.5 miles of headlands overlooking the Bay of Fundy.
We recommend this spot based on its beauty and lack of obvious directions. The Inn at English Meadows says, "Bordered on the north-east end by the Mousam River, this small beach is open to the public but the access crosses land that is privately owned. The road to the beach, Parsons Beach Road, is directly off of Rt. 9/Western Avenue.
Robert Frost knows what he's talking about. This 52-mile route on State Routes 17, 16, and 4 surrounds Rangeley Lake and crosses the Appalachian Trail. The most memorable part is, perhaps, the view of Mooselookmeguntic Lake at the Height of Land. Depending which season you make the trip, add a detour to Angel Falls, Coos Canyon, Rangeley Lakes State Park, Rangeley Logging Museum or Saddleback Mountain for skiing. Check out a map of this route, along with some other incredible scenic byways by clicking here.
And, while you’re at it, make sure you blend in by reading this article about what NOT to do if you’re a tourist in Maine.
