Maine is known as “vacation land” for good reason, here are the best summer spots to check out in this New England state.
New Englanders put up with frigid temperatures, icy roads, and shoveling multiple feet of snow every year just to be able to enjoy the few blissful months of summer awarded every year from June to August. There is truly no weather that beats a sunny and clear sky New England summer day. If you are smart enough to be a snowbird (someone who leaves New England in the winter and returns for warm weather,) or just on vacation up in the historic north, here are some of the best spots to check out throughout the region this summer.
Being the largest of the New England states, Maine offers an expansive list of summer vacation destinations. Here are my personal favorite, top three summer must-visits in the infamous “vacation land” state.
Portland
Being the largest city in Maine by population; Portland is a hip, fun, and vibrant place to visit. The city frequently holds events that are perfect for summer tourists: outdoor concerts, farmers markets, movie nights, and art walks are held weekly throughout the season. The coastal city is also perfect for taking in ocean side views while dining at nice restaurants, strolling in the park, or taking a dip at one of the many beaches located in the area. Portland is a great photo op for those who love a quaint beach side aesthetic, as the city is notorious for its picturesque lighthouses and lobster boats. Traveling thrifters will love Portland’s unique antique/vintage shopping scene, where centuries of import/export history combine to offer an eclectic New England stock.
Old Orchard Beach
Featuring one of the last remaining ocean side amusement parks in the U.S., a wooden stilted pier equipped with fried food and palm readings, and a seven mile stretch of gorgeous beach, Old Orchard Beach is the quintessential summer vacation destination we all dream of. Visitors can dine on yummy summer food favorites like pizza, ice cream, lemonade, and of course, lobster. Old Orchard is incredibly family friendly as well – kids will love the fun park, Palace Playland, which features “over 25 rides and attractions.” The pier comes to life at night, where summer nights are spent belting to karaoke over drinks with friends, dancing to live DJ’ed music, and admiring fireworks every Thursday night.
Acadia National Park
One of Maine’s most famous natural attractions with 3.5 million visitors each year, Acadia National Park is known as the “crown jewel of the North Atlantic coast.” Offering a wide array of things to do, those who visit Acadia have the options to stay and camp, navigate some of the 125 mile hiking terrain, and canoe/kayak through breathtaking fresh and salt water bodies. No matter how you decide to spend your time at Acadia, you will surely be awed by the existence of such natural beauty in oceanic, woodland, and mountainous forms.
