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Welcome to the Pine Tree State, where the rocky coastline meets dense forests, and the people are as friendly as can be.
Maine, the easternmost state in the United States and the largest in New England is known for its natural beauty, fresh seafood, and picturesque coastal towns.
If you’re on the hunt for some travel inspiration or looking to create your very own Maine bucket list, you’ve come to the right place.
Whether you want to learn more about the state’s heritage in the capital city of Augusta, take in the views of lighthouses and Casco Bay in Portland, or hike the stunning Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor- why not plan a visit and discover the unique appeal of each town and city in this beautiful place for yourself?
To make it easier for you to find your way around, we’ve organized the activities and spots by the town or city they’re located in.
You may also want to read our guide about the best places to see in Maine.
Free Maine Bucket List
Augusta Bucket List
Augusta is Maine’s capital city located in the Kennebec Valley region of the state.
There’s so much to see and do in this area that you won’t want to miss out on- whether you’re a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway.
- Start the day off with a full belly and dine at the Augusta House of Pancakes.
- Or a slice at Antigoni’s Pizza if starting a little later.
- Alternatively, grab a bagel at Bagel Mainea.
- Enjoy the lush botanical gardens at Capitol Park.
- Visit the Maine State Capitol building which is beautiful in fall.
- Enjoy some history and visit the Samantha Smith statue.
- Sign up for a guided tour through The First Amendment Museum at the Gannett House.
- Play a city-wide scavenger hunt with Augusta Scavenger Hunt: America’s Dearest Capital.
- Indulge in a bit of self-care at The Senator Spa.
- Stop for lunch at the Downtown Diner.
- Check out the Cushnoc Brewing Co.
- Take in the gorgeous architecture of the Old Post Office, it looks like a castle!
- Visit the historic Mt. Hope Cemetery.
- Take a tour of Fort Western.
- Stroll through 224 acres of nature at the Viles Arboretum.
- Spend the day shopping at the Marketplace at Augusta.
- Go for a bike ride or a hike on the Bond Brook Trails.
- Visit the Holocaust Human Rights Center of Maine to learn about past genocides and how to prevent them in the future.
- Check out the newest movies at Regal Cinemas.
- Check out the Augusta Civic Center for various shows and events.
- Take the family for some fun and games at 1-7-10 Bowling and Entertainment Center.
- Visit a winery like Two Hogs Winery.
- Play some disc golf at Porcupine Ridge Disc Golf.
Bangor Bucket List
Bangor, Maine- a small but vibrant city located in the northeastern region of the United States and known for its unique blend of history and modernity- making it the perfect destination for anyone looking for a little bit of both.
Check out the things you can do while you’re here.
- Look out for the Paul Bunyan statue, you can’t miss it!
- Enjoy a play or musical at the Penobscot Theatre Company.
- Get a shot of the Welcome to Bangor mural.
- The Maine Discovery Museum is excellent for kids and adults alike.
- Take a chance at the Hollywood Casino.
- Learn about local history at the Bangor Historical Society and Thomas A. Hill House Museum.
- Check out the former home of the king of horror, Stephen King’s house.
- Go on a Stephen King Tour of Bangor.
- Spend some time antiquing at Central Maine Antique Mall.
- Wander around the Bangor Farmers Market.
- Shop at The Rock and Art Shop.
- Take the family for a picnic at the Cascade Park.
- Learn about the Thomas Hill Standpipe.
- Spend some time in nature at the Bangor City Forest.
- Take a walk on the Orono Bog Boardwalk.
- Check out the Cole Land Transportation Museum.
Bar Harbor Bucket List
Bar Harbor is a small town, located on Mount Desert Island and is known for its stunning scenery, fresh seafood, and endless outdoor activities.
During the warm season, it attracts a large number of visitors who come to hike, bike, and explore the natural beauty of Acadia National Park– making it worthy to be on your Maine summer bucket list.
More than that, see what this place has to offer below.
- Eat lobster at Geddy’s.
- Try lobster ice cream at the Chocolate Emporium.
- Buy a book at Sherman’s Book Shop.
- Connect with nature while walking the Shore Path.
- Be adventurous with a 2-hour Windjammer Sailing Trip.
- Enjoy a walking tour of the Bar Harbor culinary scene.
- Play Bar Harbor Bash Scavenger Hunt.
- Join a bus tour of Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park.
- Experience the stunning Sand Beach of Acadia National Park.
- Hike to Bubble Rock.
- Get ‘that’ shot of Southwest Harbor.
- Be wowed by the fall colors of Acadia in autumn but avoid weekends or go by bus to avoid the crowds.
- Have a peaceful day exploring Schoodic Peninsula.
- Check out Egg Rock Lighthouse and the wildlife that surrounds it.
- Enjoy an ice cream at Mt. Desert Island Ice Cream.
- Have an educational day at the George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History.
- Enjoy a brew at the Atlantic Brewing Company.
- Taste the wine Maine has to offer at Bar Harbor Cellars Winery.
- Spend a leisurely afternoon browsing the Mount Desert Island Farmers Market.
- Admire the art displayed at the Eclipse Gallery and the D’Alessio Gallery.
- Get in on the hustle and bustle of the Bar Harbor Town Pier.
Planning to spend the night? You may also want to read our list of hotels in Bar Harbor.
Or you may try our recommendations for things to do in Acadia National Park and Acadia National Park in the fall.
Camden Bucket List
Nestled between the mountains and the sea, Camden offers a charming coastal town vibe.
From hiking and cruising to shopping and dining, this town has something for everyone.
- Check out the Harbor Park and Amphitheatre.
- Marvel at the architecture of the High Street Historic District.
- Enjoy the stunning public library.
- Stop for a sweet treat at River Ducks Ice Cream.
- Take in some art at the Small Wonder Gallery and Frameshop.
- Check out the beautiful Chestnut Street Baptist Church.
- Spend an evening at The Camden Opera House.
- Go antiquing at Donnie B’s, Star Bird, and The Shop Next Door.
- Souvenirs and sweet treats at Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe.
- Take a boat cruise with Schooner Surprise.
- Have a picnic at the Merryspring Nature Center.
- Climb to the summit of Mount Battie.
- Grab a bite to eat at the Megunticook Market and Catering.
- Have a beach day at Shirttail Point Park.
- Challenge yourself to a hike through Camden Hills State Park.
- Go for a swim at Megunticook Lake.
- Enjoy some skiing, snowboarding, tubing, or a picturesque walk at the Camden Snow. Bowl, check out our guide to New England skiing for more.
- Explore Bald Mountain Preserve.
- Get some fresh air exploring Ragged Mountain.
- Go for a day trip with Schooner Olad and Sutter Owl.
Camden also features in our guide to mud season in Maine.
Deer Isle Bucket List
Deer Isle is an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat and opportunities for Maine’s outdoor activities.
The island boasts breathtaking scenery and a tranquil ambiance that draws in photographers, artists, and nature lovers alike.
- Cross the Deer Isle-Sedgwick suspension bridge.
- Collect stamps on the Lighthouse Trail.
- Visit the Settlement Quarry for views.
- Take a day trip to Isle au Haut on Acadia National Park from Deer Isle, by boat!
Kittery Bucket List
Nestled on the southern coast of Maine, the town of Kittery is known for its outlet shopping and delicious seafood.
- Get a novelty picture at the Big Easy Chair.
- Brunch at Lil’s Cafe.
- Dine on seafood at Warren’s Lobster House.
- Pick up some treasure at Lost Coast vintage shop.
Kennebunk and Kennebunkport Bucket List
These two towns offer the quintessential Maine experience.
With charming architecture and picturesque beaches, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.
See what we mean with all the things and places to experience below.
- Pick up treats at HB Provisions.
- Cross the bride shared by both Kennebunk and Kennebunkport.
- Hit the shops at Dock Square.
- Learn more about the area on the Museum on Streets plaques.
- Laze at the beaches, Mothers, Gooch’s, Colony Bay.
- Kayak out to Goats Island Lighthouse.
- See one of the most photographic buildings in Maine, Wedding Cake House.
- Check out the vintage trolleys at the Seashore Trolley Museum.
Find out more at our Kennebunk and Kennebunkport guides.
Norway Bucket List
From the beautiful lakefront scenery to the vibrant arts scene, Norway has a lot to offer.
Enjoy the activities and places to visit we listed in this guide.
- Dine on local cuisine at hotspots like X Vault & Provisions.
- Enjoy a show at the Celebration Barn Theater.
- Learn about local artists at the Frost Farm Gallery.
- Learn about local history at the Norway Historical Society.
- Enjoy an afternoon of antiquing at Widdershins Antiques.
- Check out a yoga or pilates class at studios such as Posabilities and Foot Behind Head.
- Wander around the 10 kilometers of trails found at the Roberts Farm Preserve.
- Play a round or two of golf at the Norway Country Club.
- Check out the Annual Norway Winter and Snowshoe Festival.
Ogunquit Bucket List
Fun fact: the name Ogunquit comes from the Abenaki language, which means “beautiful place by the sea”, which perfectly reflects the area’s gorgeous scenery and coastal location.
Plus you can find many gay-owned businesses in the area.
If you’re looking for a classic New England beach town experience, Ogunquit is the place to be.
- Relax on the white sand beaches of Ogunquit.
- Explore Perkins Cove with a fishing tour and fresh seafood to indulge in.
- Check out the Perkins Cove drawbridge.
- Shop at the unique gift shop Spoiled Rotten.
- Grab a cuppa at the Backyard Coffeehouse.
- Enjoy a cup of tea at The Tea Space.
- Dine on chowder at the Village Market.
- Feast at Five-O Shore Road restaurant.
- Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Harbor Candy Shop.
- Party at the LGBTQ+ club, Mainestreet.
- Rejuvenate at Your Body Works Massage and Day Spa.
- Find some whimsical treasures at Perkins Cove Pottery Shop.
- Catch a performance at the Ogunquit Playhouse.
- Take in the wonders of the Ogunquit Memorial Library.
- Do the Finestkind Scenic Cruise.
- Stroll along the Atlantic coast at Marginal Way.
Here’s our guide to Ogunquit for more.
Portland, Maine Bucket List
With a lively downtown district, picturesque cobblestone streets, and plenty of craft breweries, Portland is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a quintessential New England experience.
From guided tours to family-friendly adventures, see some of the best things to do in Maine’s largest city.
- Walk the cobblestone street of Old Port and visit the various shops, diners, and bars.
- Enjoy the freshest seafood at DiMillo’s Old Port Marina.
- Wander around Commercial Street.
- Taste a potato dunt at The Holy Donut.
- Donut Tasting Walking Tour is a guided tour of Old Port while enjoying a donut… or two.
- Learn about the city’s history with a guided-walking tour.
- Ride around the city on a Vintage Fire Truck for a sightseeing tour.
- Indulge in a sweet treat at Gorgeous Gelato.
- Check out a brewery like Liquid Riot, Allagash Brewery or Shipyard Brewing Company.
- Hop from all the breweries Portland has to offer with the Brewery Bus Tour.
- Attend a mass at The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
- Check out Portland’s Farmers Market which runs until fall.
- Enjoy the Portland Symphony, Christmas is a good time to catch a magical show.
- Listen to live music at the Maine State Pier.
- Enjoy a Ferry Ride out to Peaks Island with Casco Bay Lines Ferry Terminal.
- Explore the Portland Museum of Art.
- Watch a play at the Portland Stage.
- The Maine Historical Society Museum has beautiful Native American exhibits to check out.
- Take a glimpse into the past at the Victoria Mansion.
- Learn about local history at The Wadsworth-Longfellow House.
- Splash around, have a picnic, and just enjoy the day at Deering Oaks Park.
- Learn about our planet and galaxy at the Southworth Planetarium.
- Take in the views and fresh air at Eastern Promenade Trail.
- Go on a guided tour of the Portland Observatory.
- Check out the Eastern Cemetery.
- Spend the day at Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company and Museum.
- Visit the Maine Jewish Museum.
- Enjoy some wine at the Maine Mead Works winery.
- Check out Urban Farm Fermentory, which offers kombucha, jun, and cider alongside beer.
- Take the kids to the Children’s Museum and Theater of Maine.
- Learn something new at the International Cryptozoology Museum.
If you plan to stay for a few days, read our list of accommodations in Portland, ME.
Peaks Island Bucket List
Just a short ferry ride from Portland, Peaks Island is a hidden oasis that feels a world away from the mainland.
Best enjoyed on foot or bike, visitors can explore the lovely streets and soak up the island’s peaceful vibe.
See all the fun things to do while in this area.
- Learn about local history at the Fifth Maine Museum.
- Enjoy the Cuisine at The Inn On Peaks Island.
- Spend the day learning about various quirky topics at the Umbrella Cover Museum.
Looking for more ideas on what to do in Maine? Read this guide.
Cape Elizabeth Bucket List
Situated on the rugged coast of the Pine Tree State, Cape Elizabeth is a quaint seaside town that is known for its stunning lighthouse, beautiful beach, and scenic nature trail.
It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and more fun activities in Maine.
- Visit the stunning Portland Light Head at Cape Elizabeth.
- Enjoy a guided tour of all the must see’s Portland has to offer with the Maine Lighthouses Sightseeing Tour.
- Eat lobster from Bite Into Maine next to Portland Light Head in.
Cape Elizabeth also features in our guide to the most beautiful towns in Maine.
York Bucket List
York is located on the southern coast of Maine and is the state’s second-largest town.
It is home to tranquil beaches, historic homes, and attractions that will keep you entertained.
- Spend the day at Short or Long Beach.
- Play games at Fun o Rama arcade.
- Hike the York Cliff Trail.
- Or the more challenging Mount Agamenticus, 692 ft high monadnock.
- Scratch Nubble Lighthouse at Cape Neddick off your bucket list.
York also made it to our list of the best places to visit in New England.
Check out our complete guide to the best things to do in York for even more ideas.
Final Thoughts
We hope this bucket list has given you ideas on some of the best things to do in Maine and inspired you to start planning your trip.
Which of these places and activities are you looking forward to experiencing?
Let us know in the comments.
