Things to Do in Fall
Leaf-peeping Opportunities
Possibly obvious, but nonetheless necessary to mention, Maine’s fall foliage is a true showstopper. Peak foliage season varies across the state, but it is typically from the last week of September to the first two weeks of October. The good news? Maine has a foliage tracker that starts up in September to help you plan your trip. While you’re here, there are plenty of ways to experience the foliage’s beauty — whether from a mountain’s peak or the comfort of your car.
Stunning Drives
Maine’s foliage is accessible to everyone via the state’s numerous National Scenic Byways. Spoiler alert: Maine has seven of them! These historic drives are designated by the federal government as some of the most beautiful and enjoyable across the country. Add fall foliage, and you’re in for a real treat! Take a leisurely drive or stop for a picnic and impromptu photo shoot at one of these seven winding beauties that have been designated National Scenic Byways.
Apple Picking
Nothing is more quintessentially fall than a big old bucket of round, red apples. Not to mention all the treats that often come along with the apple-picking experience, a true celebration of fall: apple cider doughnuts and baked apple turnovers still warm in their bags, piping-hot cider, and chilled sparkling cider served in frosty glass bottles.
Shopping
Refresh your wardrobe or get a head start on holiday shopping with fantastic fall shopping destinations from Freeport to Bangor and everywhere in between. Enjoy shopping in historic downtowns to revel in charming cityscapes with walkable streets lined with locally owned shops, art galleries and eateries to enjoy along the way.
Harvest Festivities
From corn mazes and pumpkin patches to farmers markets and agricultural fairs, fall is the season for celebrating the bounty of the harvest. Explore locally owned farms, pick out a freshly baked pie at a farm stand, explore annual festivals and savor fall flavors at special farm dinners.
Arts & Culture
Art is not hard to find in Maine, but if you want to be sure to hit all the finest art centers in the state, check out the Maine Art Museum Trail. With nine museums and more than 80,000 works of art, you’ll be in awe of Maine’s diverse and impressive art collections. Worked up a thirst during all the museum hopping? We have you covered. Take a look at our Eastport Arts & Ales itinerary or Monhegan Island Arts & Ales itinerary to find art in Maine in many shapes and forms. From historic architecture to galleries, you can take in the magic of Maine art and sample the art of handcrafted local brews that start with Maine’s clear, clean water and expert brewers.
Fall Meandering
Whether you want to follow a trail or roam as you wish, we have some ideas to help you choose the perfect fall jaunt. The newly enhanced Maine Oyster Trail will help you experience Maine’s acclaimed bivalve from the farmer to the raw bar. Speaking of farms, get off the beaten path and with our Portland and Freeport Farms & Fiber Arts itinerary. Enjoy a creative getaway by visiting farms, farm stands and specialty shops, or try a workshop where you can learn a variety of skills, like knitting a sweater from Maine wool. If you are in Maine during the first weekend in October, don’t miss Maine Craft Weekend. It’s the chance to see private artist studios and meet the artists, visit craft-based schools and craft beer breweries collaborating with artists, and purchase Maine-made goods at pop-up shops.