10. Old Fort Western
9. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
8. Portland Head Light
Cape Elizabeth
Maine has gorgeous colonial lighthouses, but none can beat Portland Head Light. Located in Cape Elizabeth, the beacon signaled nearly all of the ships coming into Portland Harbor. In fact, George Washington commissioned this whale oil lighthouse to be built in 1787.
7. Hussey’s General Store
Windsor
Just like the sign says, you can find anything you need at Hussey’s General Store in Windsor. Whether you are looking for a gun or a wedding dress, beer, or a novelty souvenir, Hussey’s has got you covered. As the locals say, “If they don’t have it, you don’t need it.”
6. Bufflehead Sailing Charter
5. Cabbage Island Clambakes
Boothbay Harbor
Since the 1980s, people have flocked to Cabbage Island to take part in the world-famous clambakes. Beginning with a scenic tour of Boothbay Harbor, the focus is soon shifted to the huge seafood banquet. If you are interested, you can sail around the harbor in the famed Bennie Alice.
4. Canoe the Allagash River
Some of the best views of Maine’s natural beauty can be seen from the Allagash River. There are parts of the river that can be dangerous, but you can take a guided tour through Allagash River Trips. For the adventurous, there is a nine-day trip that runs the length of the river, as well as excursions out onto the Allagash Stream and Allagash Lake.
3. Build a Fairy House on Mackworth Island
Portland
This heavily wooded island off the coast of Portland is the perfect afternoon getaway. While there, be sure to check out the Fairy Houses Village. Families can build wooden huts for woodland spirits to stay in during their trip to the island.
2. Lobster Roll at Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf
New Harbor
Maine is the center of tasty seafood, and you are not going to want to miss the lobster roll at Shaw’s Fish & Lobster Wharf in New Harbor. Here, you can eat a delicious meal while looking out over the harbor. Be careful if you go during the lunch rush—the place can get pretty crowded.
1. Commercial Street
Portland
When many people think about Maine, they think about the abundance of seafood around the state. On Commercial Street in Portland, there are many markets that sell the finest catches the sea has to offer. The street is also home to many tourist shops and artisan bakeries.
Author
Brian Thompson
Last Updated: March 30, 2026