Top Destinations for a Weekend Getaway in Maine

This town has a little something for everyone, including couples or families. Stop at the Portland Museum of Art and marvel at the impressive artworks on display. The Victoria Mansion, an 1800s-era building, has a remarkable interior.

Head to this art-oriented getaway and experience a friendly seaside community amid historical architecture. Take the little ones to the Coastal Children’s Museum to learn about the natural world.

Stroll along the Orono Bog Boardwalk. Watch birds and other wildlife in this remote setting, and stop for a selfie at the Paul Bunyan statue. Before you leave, entertain yourself to an outdoor concert at Darling’s Waterfront Pavilion.

With beautiful sandy beaches and Maine’s prized lighthouses, this destination is a favorite vacation spot for locals and visitors alike. Head to Dock Square and spend time browsing through its array of eclectic shops.

This town is popular among holidaymakers. Stray off the beaten path and explore the historic farms, forts, lighthouses and picturesque seaside. It's also home to several cabins and villas that make for wonderful overnight stays.

Hop onto a land-and-sea vehicle and venture past Maine’s historic buildings, including City Hall, the US Customs House, and churches. It’s a fantastic way to familiarize yourself with the city.

Connect with nature by watching the world’s most enormous creatures about 20 miles off Maine's coast. The best time to catch a glimpse is in mid-April, when they migrate here to feed on plankton, copepods, and sand eels.

Maine is the place to get paddling, with whitewater, saltwater, and standing water. Take your kayak or canoe and roam from the Northwoods to the coast and southern Maine. Join the locals at their favorite inlets, streams, and tidal rivers for this thrilling watersport.

Visit Portland and savor the best of its nightlife attractions. With a reputation as Maine’s commercial and cultural center, the city rewards explorers with hidden treasures. Immerse yourself in the festive and vibrant atmosphere that makes Portland an entertainment hub.

Freeport is Maine’s most popular shopping stop. Home of the legendary outfitter, L.L.Bean, it also has locally owned boutiques and national outlets. Walk around and enjoy the unique artwork, home décor, jewelry, and clothing.

You'll want to bring comfortable footwear for less intensive activities such as wandering around towns and attending casual dinners. And if you intend to hike rockier trails, a sturdy pair of boots comes in handy.

Your packing list should include at least one pair of jeans and a few T-shirts for longer days of sightseeing. Include quick-drying, water-resistant pants for watersports and hiking. A cozy sweater and other base layers will keep you warm if you’re visiting in colder months.

You certainly don’t want your phone going off when you’re out kayaking, so remember to carry a backup phone charger. Pack a good camera to document every delightful moment of your trip for your family and friends.

A lightweight, easily packable umbrella should top your list of accessories, especially if you intend to visit in dreary days. A pair of sunglasses is ideal for outdoor adventures. Depending on the time of the visit and your taste of fashion, you might consider a baseball cap, knit hat, or sun hat.

Insect repellant will protect you from bugs and ticks when visiting in warm weather. Sunscreen is necessary for any trip, at any time of year. If you're flying, consider packing earbuds to listen to an audiobook about Maine.