People Live Their Whole Lives in Maine and Somehow Miss These 5 Places

Maine locals know just how special their state is. And if they didn’t, well, the frequent crowds of tourists would be sure to remind them. The state is gorgeous and has an appeal unlike that of other places in the United States, adding layers of history to its nautical charm and celebrating small towns teeming with delicious seafood. However, when there’s something great to see, fun to do, and flavorful to eat at nearly every turn, locals don’t have to travel very far to get what they’re looking for. Because of this, there are a few underrated places that fall under their radar.

1. Monhegan Island

Location: The Atlantic Ocean, southern Maine

Known For: This tiny island is barely a square foot in size, but it also happens to be one of the most influential colonies of artists in the world. It’s also a National Natural Landmark, as well as a space for lobster conservation. Visitors can only access the island by ferry; no cars are permitted, and much of the island's infrastructure is geared towards sustainability. And yet, despite its gorgeous natural landscape (great sea views, dramatic cliffs, and forests) and fascinating maritime and artistic history, its remote nature has led locals to shy away from it.

2. Penobscot Marine Museum

Location: Searsport

Known For: This museum is part typical museum, part living museum, where multiple buildings have remained the same as they were since the 19th century and are open to explore. There are art galleries, historical ships, and educational spaces scattered throughout the actual town of Searsport, which by itself is also a very charming village in Maine with all of the classic fun aspects of Maine life, like seafood, nautical appeal, and beautiful views.

3. Kokadjo (the town)

Location: Piscataquis County

Known For: This tiny town is well-known for what it can offer in terms of outdoor excursions and wildlife viewing opportunities (known as one of the best places to see wild moose in all of the United States), but its remote nature means that typically only outdoor or wildlife enthusiasts visit. With some of the most stunning and serene landscapes in Maine (due to the lack of human interference), it's baffling that more people haven’t caught onto this hidden gem.

4. Steep Falls (the waterfall)

Location: Standish

Known For: At seventy-five feet across in length and a wide pool at the base of the falls, this remote waterfall is perfect for either a summer day where someone wants to take a dip and cool off, or for pictures all year round due to the consistent water flow (it’s extremely high volume and doesn’t dry up). Take into account the sandy banks and surrounding forest, and you’ve got yourself a hidden gem that should be rife with locals, but often falls to the wayside due to its remote nature.

5. The Wiggly Bridge

Location: York

Known For: Although more popular with tourists (especially those with young children), this spot is still underutilized by locals. It's been nicknamed “the world’s smallest suspension bridge,” so tourists will visit, and occasionally the parking will fill up, but locals should also take in the sights when they can. This wiggly bridge is just plain fun to walk over, the sights are beautiful, and the surrounding nature reserve is well worth a stroll through. 

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