7 Tourist Towns In Maine That Are Even More Delightful During The Off-Season
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Michelle
Author
Maine isn’t called “Vacationland” for nothing. People from all over the country come to Maine during the summer months to soak in our sunny coast, warm(er) lakes and countless camping, shopping and eating options. But, now that we’re settling into fall and the tourists have (mostly) started to thin out, some of the obvious summer choices might be even more lovely to visit. In addition to being beautiful during leaf-changing season, many of these towns begin to feature lower off-season pricing for lodging. Check out these tourist towns that are arguably even better this time of year!
Ogunquit is a popular summertime destination in Southern Maine, but it offers plenty to do after the temps get cooler. Come to the city by the sea for lots of live music events, such as "Live Music Monday Nights" or make a weekend of it by attending "Ogunquitfest" from October 21st to 23rd. While most of the campgrounds will be closed soon, the bed and breakfasts and local hotels are still running as are some of the local restaurants. Check out a town events schedule by clicking here.
Boothbay is one of the best tourist-towns to check out during the off-season. But, that doesn't just mean fall. There are fun Boothbay events taking place well into the winter - including the return of "Gardens Aglow," which was a mega-hit for Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens last year. Look for good hotels deals (though, October 1st through 10th might be hard as Boothbay tends to play host to those visiting the area for the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta). Boothbay is also a great jumping off point for visits to Monhegan Island, as well as whale watching and harbor cruises. Click here for everything you need to know.
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We don't intend to try to make you think Freeport will ever be empty, but you'll be pleased to find that once the temperatures drop so does the foot traffic. Head to one of the family-run bed and breakfasts just off the main street (we love Applewood Inn) and enjoy the Columbus Day sales. And, it's safe to say, they'll be followed by lots of other off-season sale events. Click here for more information on town events, as well as fun fall festivals happening just outside of the shopping area.
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Whole most notable for the summer shenanigans of Canadians and Mainers alike, Old Orchard Beach becomes a lot less rambunctious in the early fall season. The temps are still nice enough for a stroll along the seven miles of beach, but you won't be contending with miles of beach blankets. The pier may already be closed, but use that to your advantage and find an excuse to get a meal at one of the local spots that stays open all year-round. And, you might as well make a weekend of it with some of the lower fall-rates that are now available. Click here for more information on which hotels and local restaurants remain open all year long.
Bar Harbor is beautiful any time of year, but it's typically pretty crowded during the summer. Fall is when things tend to calm down, although this year Acadia celebrated its 100th anniversary, along with the National Park Service. The extra boost this provided for the park means that there've been more visitors, but it doesn't mean Bar Harbor should be avoided completely. It's one of the best spots to be if you're looking for that quintessential Maine Autumn vibe. For more information on the town and what's going on this fall, click here.
Rockland is definitely a year-round town, but it's even better when the tourists head home. This spot is a lovely mid-coast town that's perfect for people who are willing to admit that there's a strong food scene other places besides Portland. Stick around beyond October and you'll be treated to the Rockland Festival of Lights, which marks the official (early!) start to Christmas and includes the lighting of a lobster-trap tree and boat parade. Click here for more information on events in the town. And, since you'll already be enjoying the off-season here, you might as well take the two-hour (ish) ferry over to one of our favorite off-season picks...
This one might surprise some people, but we're big fans of visiting this island town in October. While it's true that many of the restaurants are shuttered for the winter by this time, there are still some fun local spots that will keep you entertained. And, you might get lucky and have a beautiful, warm and sunny day like we did last year. Imagine riding bikes on a seventy-degree Sunday on the last weekend in October with the island (seemingly) to yourself! Check out the lay of the land by clicking here.
While you’re visiting these spots, keep an eye out for tourists who are still there. Shake their hands and thank them for supporting Maine even when the weather isn’t summery and warm. Click here to find out how to spot these tourists in Maine.
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