Maine Bucket List – Reasons To Visit The Pine Tree State

Whether you’re calling it The Pine Tree State or Vacationland, there’s no doubt that both nicknames for the state of Maine were coined for a reason.  There is so much to do in this picturesque state that one vacation here will leave you planning the next one just to see the places you’ve missed.

Here’s a list of just a few of the offerings that you’re sure to love in the great state of Maine.

Things To Do In Maine

1. Acadia National Park – Being the easternmost of the 58 parks in the National Park system, Acadia boasts granite peaks for hiking, historic carriage roads for biking, and scenery that will make you forget the rat race.

2. Paul Bunyan – 31’ tall, 3700 pounds are stats that only a man like Paul Bunyan would be proud of. This statue honoring the legendary lumberjack stands tall greeting visitors to downtown Bangor waiting to take his picture with all travelers.3. Quoddy Head State Park – Stretching more than  541 this state park is the eastermmost point of land in the U.S. and, around the equinoxes, is the first spot in the country to see the sunrise.

4. L. L. Bean – Since 1912, L.L. Bean has been outfitting the casual hiker, biker, and outdoor enthusiast. With their 100% satisfaction policy, it’s no wonder why the flagship store in Freeport made this list.  Open 24/7/365, with knowledgeable sales staff, anytime is the right time to get all your outdoor essentials.5. Maine Maritime Museum – Located in Bath, the Maritime Museum is a stop that will provide an in-depth look at what ship building was like in the past and still is today. Don’t forget to take the narrated tours to see ships of today and tomorrow being built.

6. Portland Head Lighthouse – Being one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States, is something worth bragging about. Completed in 1790 with instruction from none other than George Washington, it was the first lighthouse completed by the newly formed United States government.  Visiting this majestic structure in Portland will touch the soul.7. Maine Lobster Festival – Five days of lobster? YES, please!  Rockland is the home of the Crustacean Celebration that is he Maine Lobster Festival.  30,000 people venture to this delicious destination each year during the first weekend in August to delight in New England charm, art, and of course, LOBSTER

8. Palace Playland – Located right on the shore in Old Orchard beach, this amusement park is the only theme park in Maine that is right on the beach. From classic rides to adrenaline pumping thrill rides, from midway games to carnival food, Palace Playland has got you covered.9. Baxter State Park – Katahdin, the tallest mountain in Maine at over 5000’, alone would be reason enough to visit this state park in the north-eastern part of the state, but with over 215 miles of biking and hiking trails, this 200,000-acre park outside of the small town of Millinocket is surely a state treasure.

10. Auqaboggan – Being in business for over 35 years this waterpark in Sako has everything that you’re looking for to spend a day in a waterpark. From the thrilling slides to the wave pool, there’s enough excitement for children of all ages.

11. Screw Auger Falls – Located just off Route 26 this 23 foot waterfall can be found inside Grafton Notch State Park. It follows a narrow gorge along the Bear River and offers shallow wading pools that are perfect for swimming in. Best views? On top of the rock ledge looking over the gorge.

So, if you’re an outdoor adventurer, or a closet foodie, Maine has something to offer.  Pack your bags, head to Maine, you won’t be disappointed…