Shhh… These 10 Hidden Places Are Maine’s Best Kept Secrets

Anyone who has called Vacationland home for awhile knows there's no shortage of hidden gems and secret places in Maine. Because really, as many of us know, the entire state itself is a bit of a secret! Tucked away in the upper righthand corner of the United States, Maine is often thought of as a summer destination, with nothing but snow and wind to show for itself in the winter. While some of that might be true (we have to admit Maine has its fair share of cold days) the reality is that there's a lot more to Maine than staying indoors during the winter. If you're like us and love the often-overlooked destinations, hidden gems, and secret places in Maine, check out this list... these are some of our favorite top-secret spots in the Pine Tree State!

1. The Abandoned Mansion Hike in Fort Williams Park, Cape Elizabeth

The easily navigable cliff walk is made of crushed stone making it easy on the feet. It follows the the beautiful cliffs and takes visitors past the historic remnants of Fort Williams. While most people come to Fort Williams Park for the views, the fort and the lighthouse, there's actually a lesser-known abandoned mansion hiding in the area!

2. Maine's Oldest Standing Tavern, Freeport

Maine has some of the most interesting history in the northeast, but sometimes this history comes in places you least expect. In addition to old mills, roads and historic homes, a lot of Maine’s history lies within the old businesses and shops that have stood the test of time. But, only one of these places can be referred to as the "the Birthplace of Maine." To find out how it earned this distinction, check out this story of the state’s oldest standing tavern, AKA Jameson Tavern, by clicking on the link above.

3. A Hidden Underwater City, Flagstaff Lake

The first permanent settlers of Flagstaff Village, which took its name from the flagpole erected by Benedict Arnold and his men, came in the 1800s. But, by the 1950s, this city had been flooded and all its residents displaced. Click the title above to learn more about this sad Maine piece of history.

4. Lovely Norway, Oxford County

Maine has become increasingly more recognized for its culinary scene. Towns like Portland, Camden and Rockland have some of the best restaurants not only in New England, but all of America. While we certainly recommend you check them out, we also urge you to explore some of the lesser known towns in Vacationland. Some of the smaller ones have shops and restaurants run by locals who have lived in the state all their life. And we love that! Norway, Maine is a great example!

5. The Bold Coast Scenic Byway

This is one of the best drives you can do in Maine. But, the fact that it begins a bit further north makes is often forgotten by those based further south. The roughly 3-hour drive will take you from Millbridge, all the way up the coast to Eastport. While it's fairly straightforward, there are lots of beautiful spots along the way that make this drive so much more than the destination. We recommend starting US Highway 1 in West Gouldsboro, Maine.

6. The Entire Solar System, Presque Isle

Head north to the county for the scaled model of our solar system. Created by the University of Maine in Presque Isle, this model begins with the sun in Presque Isle and goes all the way to Houlton where you'll find the (now defunct as a planet) Pluto.

7. A Two Waterfall Hike near Andover

You'll start this hike on the Appalachian Trail, and it's fun to look out for thru hikers. It takes you along a stream, to a waterfall, and you won't want to miss it.

8. The Last Bridge of a Kind, New Portland

Located in the small town of New Portland, between Bangor and the Canadian border, this bridge is truly special. The bridge is older than even the town financial records, but it was likely built before 1866 along with three others of its kind.

9. The Rockland Cafe, Rockland

When you’re looking for tasty food, great service and reasonable prices, your best bet is to find out where the locals eat. If you’re in Rockland, that place is Rockland Cafe, which offers plates piled high with comfort food, and has some great seafood options, too (of course!).

10. Old Fort Western, Augusta

We didn't know about this one until we went digging around to write the original article. But, it's thriving and fun for visitors, who can expect to see historical re-enactments performed by trained volunteers. Old Fort Western was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1973.

What are your favorite secret places in Maine? Hidden gems you simply adore? Share them with your fellow Mainers. It's the neighborly thing to do!

Another cool secret spot is this awesome tiny house, hidden away in the woods near a river.