The Best Experiences in Maine: Top 10 Must-Do Activities (Currently Open)
Maine is one of those rare places that feels untouched, authentic, and deeply tied to the rhythms of nature. With its dramatic coastlines, historic fishing villages, endless forests, peaceful lakes, and charming small towns, the Pine Tree State offers experiences that stay with you long after your visit. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a lifelong local rediscovering the state, Maine’s outdoor beauty, maritime heritage, creative culture, and delicious food scene create opportunities for unforgettable adventures.
This guide explores the Top 10 Must-Do Experiences in Maine, all of them currently open and offering some of the most inspiring activities in New England. Each destination blends local culture, history, and natural wonder, ensuring you see Maine from every angle—its rocky shores, misty mountains, vibrant arts scene, and cozy coastal towns.
Let’s jump into the very best of Maine, from scenic hiking and whale watching to small-town charm and mouthwatering seafood.
Explore Acadia National Park – Maine’s Crown Jewel
There’s no better place to start than Acadia National Park, one of the most beloved national parks in the United States. Acadia offers a powerful blend of mountain peaks, deep forests, crashing waves, and serene lakes.
Must-Do Highlights
Drive or bike the Park Loop Road for incredible coastline views
Hike Cadillac Mountain, the tallest peak on the eastern seaboard
Explore the Carriage Roads on foot or bike
Visit Jordan Pond House for tea and popovers
Acadia is one of those places where every turn reveals another breathtaking moment. It’s perfect for families, hikers, photographers, and anyone who loves nature.
Take a Whale Watching Cruise – See Giants of the Atlantic
Maine’s coastline is home to some of the richest whale-watching waters in the world. Many tours depart from Bar Harbor, Boothbay Harbor, and Portland, offering unforgettable views of these magnificent marine animals.
What You Might See
Humpback whales
Fin whales
Minke whales
Seals, puffins, and dolphins
The open ocean, fresh sea breeze, and the excitement of spotting a whale make this a truly moving experience for all ages.
Walk the Marginal Way in Ogunquit – One of America’s Most Scenic Paths
The Marginal Way in Ogunquit is a one-mile coastal cliff walk that offers some of the best ocean views in Maine.
Why Travelers Love It
Easy, family-friendly walking path
Beautiful beaches, tide pools, and rocky coves
Benches along the way for relaxing and taking in the scenery
Ends at the charming Perkins Cove
It’s a peaceful, uplifting experience—perfect for early morning strolls, romantic walks, or afternoon adventures.
Eat Fresh Lobster in a Classic Maine Lobster Shack
You can’t visit Maine without experiencing a traditional lobster feast. The state is filled with legendary lobster shacks that serve fresh catches straight from the traps.
Top Choices Include
Whether it’s a lobster roll dripping with butter or a full steamed lobster, this is a defining taste of Maine.
Sail on a Historic Windjammer – A Maritime Adventure
Maine’s windjammer cruises offer a chance to step into the state’s nautical heritage. These tall ships sail through Penobscot Bay and other coastal waters, letting travelers experience the coast from the deck of a historic vessel.
Expect
Multi-day or sunset cruises
Starlit nights on the water
Gourmet meals prepared onboard
Visits to remote islands and charming coastal villages
This is one of the most romantic and unforgettable experiences Maine has to offer.
Visit Portland’s Old Port – Cobblestones, Cuisine & Coastal Charm
Portland’s Old Port is a lively waterfront district filled with restaurants, boutiques, breweries, and historic buildings.
Must-See Highlights
Craft breweries like Allagash Brewing Company
Award-winning restaurants such as Eventide Oyster Co.
Boutique shops with local artwork and Maine-made goods
Working waterfront views with fishing boats and ferries
Whether you love food, shopping, or history, Old Port offers it in a vibrant, walkable setting.
Explore the Rugged Beauty of the Maine Highlands
The Maine Highlands region—home to Moosehead Lake, the Appalachian Trail, and Baxter State Park—offers some of Maine’s most dramatic wilderness.
The Best Activities Include
Hiking to Katahdin, Maine’s highest peak
Canoeing on Moosehead Lake
Spotting moose with a local guide
Camping under a star-filled night sky
It’s an ideal destination for outdoor lovers craving peace, fresh air, and adventure.
Discover the Art Scene in Rockland & the Midcoast
Maine’s Midcoast region has a thriving arts culture rooted in its maritime heritage and natural beauty.
Don’t Miss
Artists’ studios and galleries in Rockland and Camden
Craft markets with local pottery, woodworking, and textiles
It’s a beautiful blend of creativity, history, and ocean-inspired craftsmanship.
Tour Maine’s Lighthouses – A Journey Through Maritime History
Maine’s breathtaking lighthouses are symbols of the state’s connection to the sea. Many are open to the public or offer incredible photo opportunities.
Must-See Lighthouses
Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth
Pemaquid Point Light in Bristol
Bass Harbor Head Light in Acadia
Marshall Point Light in Port Clyde
Each lighthouse has its own story, charm, and stunning coastal backdrop.
Hit the Slopes or Trails in Maine’s Mountain Resorts
Maine’s western mountains offer year-round outdoor fun, from skiing and snowboarding to hiking and mountain biking.
Top Areas
Whether you’re carving through fresh powder or hiking up mountain peaks, Maine’s highlands deliver unforgettable experiences.
Conclusion: Discover Your Maine Adventure
From oceanside strolls and mountain hikes to delicious seafood and maritime traditions, Maine offers some of the most inspiring travel experiences in New England. These top 10 must-do activities are all currently open, welcoming visitors who want to feel the real Maine—its wild beauty, small-town charm, and timeless culture.
Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a longer vacation, these adventures give you a chance to explore every corner of the state.