Planning a Maine Staycation
You live in Maine for a reason — perhaps for its natural beauty, spanning craggy coastlines and picturesque fishing villages to snow-capped mountains, or perhaps for its thriving arts scene that flourishes in museums, local shops and artists’ studios. Maybe you are a self-proclaimed foodie who appreciates Maine’s diverse and excellent food and drink offerings, from gourmet restaurants commanding water views to tiny lobster shacks and casual breweries. It’s likely you live here for a combination of winning reasons — so, sometimes staying put for a little “staycation” can help you get the most out of your home state, while skipping the hassle of travel. With time set aside to explore Maine, you may find yourself discovering new places, tastes and activities bound to become cherished favorites.
Ready to plan your staycation? With Maine at your fingertips, there is no shortage of trip ideas. We’ve pulled together some highlights.
Enjoy Local Art and Ales
What better way to learn about areas of Maine you may not have discovered yet than through art and ice-cold brews? A delightful combination for your next day trip, such outings are possible throughout the state, with its rich craft brewery culture and art offerings. Check out larger-than-life sculptures in Norway and grab a pint at Norway Brewing Company, or enjoy multiple galleries and a historic-building-turned-brewery in the coastal town of Eastport.
Visit Maine’s Farms
Discover the many farms that make Maine’s food scene so vibrantly delicious, and meet the furry crew behind your favorite cheese. Head to Pineland Farms and go on a creamery tour, or do a meet-and-greet with animals at Freeport’s Wolfe’s Neck Center & Farm. If you’re ready to get tactile with textiles, take a specialty farm workshop and learn to knit or weave.
Get In and On the Water
Maine’s thousands of miles of coast and riverways aren’t just for admiring from a distance — they are excellent for a myriad of activities and sites. Follow one of Maine’s riverways, like the Saco River: Start at the coast in Saco/Biddeford and follow the river to experience beaches, two nationally designated Main Streets, rural villages, rolling hills, and farmlands and mountains that all tell a part of Maine’s story.
Wander Through Gardens
In addition to Maine’s natural lands and waterways, our state is home to carefully crafted gardens, lovingly tended arboretums and beautifully designed landscapes ready for your exploration. At Boothbay’s Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, you can experience year-round offerings and events. A stop into Northeast Harbor’s Asticou Azalea Garden will have all your senses wowed, from the reflective water lilies to fragrant azaleas.
Savor Lobster (and More!)
Maine’s iconic crustacean should be appreciated by all, including those lucky enough to call Maine home. Learn about the work that goes into catching these decadent treats with a lobster boat tour in Kennebunkport. Walk along the working waterfront in historic Portland, and then treat yourself to a steamed one with butter.
Not a lobster fan? We won’t judge — Maine is home to an award-winning food and drink scene that pleases all palates: surf, turf, vegan and more.
Follow the Call of Nature
Living in Maine means you share your home state with some amazingly diverse wildlife. From sweet-cheeked puffins on the coast to massive and contemplative moose inland, there is much to appreciate and discover. Booking one of Maine’s many wildlife tours is a great way to identify and learn about these amazing creatures. Whether you’re cruising through the sea and whale watching or keeping quiet while listening for birds on an island hike, witnessing Maine’s wildlife will help you appreciate the state on a new level.
Visit Maine’s Historic Lighthouses
Maine’s postcard-worthy lighthouses should be enjoyed by those near and far. Learn about their history and present-day importance as a part of Maine’s maritime culture, and explore the charming and unique towns that surround them. Don’t forget to snap a photograph so you can proudly display the beauty of your home state.
Looking for More Staycation Ideas?
Playing tourist is fun. We’ve got you covered with a variety of trip tips that will keep you in the know about all Maine has to offer, all season long.