It's been too long. Maine is calling and ready to welcome you back. Start planning your next adventure with some of the best day trips in Maine, curated by Mainers.
Aroostook County
Maine's northernmost county is draped in sprawling forests and dotted with mountain peaks. Considering it's bigger than Rhode Island and Connecticut combined, you'll run out of energy before you run out of hiking, mountain biking, ATV and cross-country ski trails.
Aroostook State Park Hiking
In northern Maine's Aroostook State Park, a few hours of spirited hiking will reward you with some great views.
Travel the Aroostook Valley Trail
The trail wanders for 28 miles through northeastern Maine, through deep woods and past open fields and potato farms.
Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge
The area, once overflown by Air Force bombers, now offers a wild and quiet place for wildlife watchers and birders alike.
DownEast & Acadia
Downwind from shipping ports like New York and Boston. And to the east. That's how you get DownEast. Defined by booming ocean, craggy coastline, and inland beauty, the region's natural wonder continues far beyond Acadia National Park, so we'd recommend you do the same.
Spring in Acadia National Park
Enjoy the fresh spring air and revel in the benefits of the less-crowded offseason at attractions and restaurants at one of the country's top 10 most-visited national parks.
Visit Holbrook Island Sanctuary
Visitors can walk along old roads and trails to discover the unique and varied ecosystems protected here for a truly unspoiled piece of Maine.
Greater Portland & Casco Bay
Art? Absolutely. Shows? Sure enough. Food? Really good food? Probably more than you can handle in one trip. So, plan two. Or three. Or however many it takes to get to know this culturally diverse corner of Maine.
Portland Freedom Trail
Learn about Maine's African American history by following their footsteps for about two miles through downtown Portland.
Maine Foodie Tours
Working with chefs and purveyors, brew masters, bakers, distillers, chocolatiers and more, Maine Foodie Tours is headquartered in Portland and offers experiences in several Maine communities.
Portland Museum of Art
Located in the heart of Portland’s vibrant downtown art’s district, The Portland Museum of Art (PMA) is a light-filled, airy space that is worthy of a visit and a great reason for a visit to Portland
The Kennebec Valley
The Kennebec Valley is a gift of the 170-mile Kennebec River that rolls, and sometimes rocks, from Moosehead Lake in the north to the Atlantic Ocean. Test your mettle on some rapids, cast a line, explore the Appalachian Trail, or just sit back and enjoy the waterfalls.
Fishing in the Kennebec Valley
The Kennebec Valley draws fishing enthusiasts with its more than 250 square miles of open water from dozens of lakes and miles of rivers and streams.
Maine International Film Festival
There will be a wide array of work featured in the Maine International Film Festival, including premieres, made-in-Maine features, classic revivals, and short films from around the world.
Kennebec River Rail Trail
This 6.5-mile trail spanning Gardiner to Augusta offers all-season recreational opportunities along the scenic Kennebec River and access points to several fascinating towns.
Maine's Lakes & Mountains
Beginning just an hour from Portland and reaching to the Canadian border, Maine's Lakes & Mountains region is home to ten of the state's highest peaks, our largest ski resorts and plenty of opportunities to paddle, cast and cannonball.
Bridgton Day Trip
The town of Bridgton combines picturesque lakes and mountains with charming downtown culture and amenities making for an ideal all-season day trip.
Bates Dance Festival
Celebrate the art of movement and the dance community at Bates Dance Festival in Lewiston, with virtual options, showcasing diverse dance forms.
Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary
Perched on the highest point of Lewiston, this wildlife preserve offers 450 acres of forested oasis including trails, wetlands and resting areas.
Maine's MidCoast & Islands
Scale a mountain, turn your head and see islands punctuating the sparkling sea. Maine's MidCoast & Islands region specializes in breathtaking vistas, which is probably why some of America's greatest painters called this place home.
The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
The largest botanical garden in New England is located on nearly 300 tidal acres and is ideal for a day's exploration with the whole family.
Maine's MidCoast Forts
The MidCoast & Islands region is home to historic forts that echo the days we read about in history books.
Maine Maritime Museum Boat Tours
Leaving from the museum pier, the tour boat Merrymeeting sails on several different excursions down rivers and up the coast.
The Maine Beaches
Maine might be known for its dramatic and rugged coastline, but just one hour north of Boston and a stone's throw from Portland you'll find wide sandy beaches. There's nothing like a sun-soaked beach day. And there's no place quite like a Maine beach.
Wells Reserve at Laudholm
There is much to do, see and learn during your visit to this national treasure, whether you are winding through a wooded trail, walking the open coastline or taking part in a guided kayak tour.
Rugosa Lobster Boat
Hop aboard a classic wooden lobster boat and sail through the scenic Kennebunk River waterfront and coastline.
Ogunquit Museum of American Art
Nestled on three acres of sculpture-dotted land overlooking Narrow Cove and the sea, OMAA is a serene respite for a beautifully reflective summer day trip.
The Maine Highlands
The highest peak. And the largest lake. Just two of the natural wonders you'll encounter in the Maine Highlands. And if you make your way to Baxter State Park, you'll probably be able to add a moose to that list.
Hirundo Wildlife Refuge
With over 2,400 acres of pristine natural wilderness, 7 miles of walking trails and educational activities for all ages, Hirundo Wildlife Refuge is Old Town's best kept secret.
Exploring Bangor
Birth place of Paul Bunyan, Bangor is home to many attractions, including Stephen King's home. Take a self-guided tour around town and visit Bangor City Forest.
36 Hours in Greenville
Greenville is known for its proximity to Moosehead Lake, but there are plenty of additional natural wonders, activities, restaurants and lodging options, making it a great place for a getaway.