Since I grew up in Maine and hence know it quite well, I thought I might make a few posts about the various hot spots and places I personally enjoy. Each installment will be separated into the usual places most people go, my own personal favorite places, hidden gems that I have found, and places I have not been yet.
In this first entry I will share my views on a few of the most tourist-heavy places in Maine; Mt Desert Island, Portland Head Light, Camden, The Kennebunks, Sebago Lake, and the The Old Port in Portland. Don't pass these by because of tourists; they are all popular for good reason.
The Portland Head Light (above) is our first winner. One of the most photographed lighthouses in the state if not the world; it is truly a magical sight. People go on and on about it so much you almost dread going, but you really should see it. It is majestic and you get all these old feelings you have not had anymore; like wonder and a sense of mystery; remember those? A common mistake both I and others have made is thinking it is all abut the lighthouse; it is gorgeous but there is so much more. What you want to do is put on your hiking shoes and/or your swimsuit and explore the entirety of "Fort Williams State Park."
There are paths, beaches, cliff walks, great food trucks, and fascinating forts and ruins.
There are also beautiful destinations around Cape Elizabeth and the surrounding towns. The drive there is wonderful; you get to see all the huge stone houses on Cape Elizabeth and wonder who lives there. Just remember to stop at "The Cookie Jar" first to get some snacks for your trip.
Another place tourists are often herded to like cattle; is Portland and it's Old Port in particular. There is a reason for this; It's cobblestone streets and old brick and stone houses take one back in time. Portland's gallery's, shops and restaurants are also unique and high quality . I posted about it a bit more in a recent Steemit post
If you like a fun vibrant atmosphere come for the art walk and during the Old Port Festival; if you hate crowds come on a weekday. If you like boats there are rentals on the docks and on the eastern promenade. There are tours to suite a variety of travel budgets; I personally like to take the ferry out to the islands and explore. It is less than the cost of a movie, and much more fulfilling. (You only pay to go to the islands; coming back is free.)
The Sebago Lake area is another that caters heavily to tourists; just an hour away from Portland with charming small towns in the area like Naples and Brighton.
I stayed with my mother at the state park there and the facilities were clean and well stocked, prices were reasonable and the environment of the campground was lovely and peaceful. Our campground was also right near the water with trails and beaches nearby.
We found places in the area you could rent boats; but due to the weather and frenetic waves it was suggested we not go out. We went for a walk around the Naples causeway instead; a funky little bridge lined with shops and restaurants. We had lunch in town with a view of the water, then went for a ride on the “Songa River Queen”; a New Orleans style boat that sails around Long Lake.
The next three locations I have not been to in a while so I do not have photos and can give little in terms of recommendations or personal experience; but they are lovely places and I would not pass them up.
The Kennebunks are a solid choice if you want a shorter drive to a cute Maine city and do not feel like braving route 1. It is catered to tourists and full of them; so be prepared for that; but it is picturesque and fun. I have not been in over ten years (except driving through) so the only recommendation I can make is to walk around the harbor and enjoy the shops, restaurants and the atmosphere.
I you want some pictures check here
Camden is one of the prettiest towns you will ever see. Imagine a fairy tail New England town with boats in the harbor and a mountain in the distance. Again; you may want to go on a weekday if you do not like crowds. I cannot find any pictures that I have taken in Camden on all my media but Flickr has a nice collection I took an overnight Windjammer Cruise with my family there once and I would highly recommend it; sailing into the harbor at night is so magical. Camden Hills and the Camden Snow Bowl are two other popular local attractions.
Mt Desert Island; which includes two top destinations Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park; is huge and glorious. I have only been twice but I can tell you it is worth a trip. Bar Harbor is bigger and sometimes even more crowded than Camden; but it has a fun vibe which can be a great counter balance to a day spent hiking in the Acadia National Park; a place I cannot describe in words; you just have to experience it.
One of my favorite Travel Vlogs; "Dirt Cheap" has made a really fun video on the area- Watch here
Okay I hope this has been enjoyable and somewhat helpful for those that are considering traveling to Maine in the future. I look forward to constructing the next three installments for you. :) Dania
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