When you think of the term “bucket list,” you might imagine Fiji or other exotic, tropical wonderlands. But, if your bucket list includes all the things in life that you MUST do and see, you’d be crazy to not include Maine. Whether winter, spring, summer or fall, Maine offers just as much beauty and excitement as other dream destinations. Here are just a few of the reasons we think Maine absolutely must be on your travel bucket list.
1. Because we know exactly how to do a lobster roll.
Try Quoddy Bay Lobster for one of the best in the state. This family run establishment just opened for their tenth season in business. Their longevity comes as no surprise to anyone who has tasted their lobster roll. It's fresh without filler and eating one outside offers views of the Bay of Fundy across to Canada. Visit them at 7 Sea Street in Eastport / 207-853-6640.
2. Because if you're lonely, we'll take you in for dinner.
Mainers are the kindest people around, and we always have room for one more.
3. Because we are the only state with an official state "treat."
Sure, other states have a state dessert - but we have both.
4. Because we still have theaters like this.
You can spend a date night on an ACTUAL date. Ditch Netflix and head to a real theater, like this one in Bar Harbor.
5. Because you won't find a proper lobster dinner anywhere else.
If you know even a little bit about Maine, you know that we are responsible for just about any lobster you eat in the United States. So, you might as well get it straight from the source.
6. Because our vistas are not just about water.
Find yourself a few miles outside of our cities and you'll be surrounded by beauty. Like this field in Mount Desert Island.
7. Speaking of which, another good reason is Mount Desert Island.
Whether you want to explore Acadia or simply meander around a beautiful place, Mount Desert Island will satisfy you.
8. Because we'll teach you what it's like to be proud.
Mainers are proud of being from Vacationland and we're not shy about making it clear.
9. Because you won't see a night sky quite like this anywhere else.
While this particular photo was shot in Clayton Lake in Aroostook County, you'll have similar experiences in just about any place in more rural Maine. The lack of light pollution here will lead to some pretty special experiences.
10. Because we have a 1,700 pound chocolate moose.
This could, perhaps, be the ONLY thing on this list and it would still be a solid list. This guy lives at Len Libby Candy Shops in Scarborough.
11. Because going upta camp anywhere else just doesn't count.
Moosehead Lake camps offer tranquility and calm like no other state's lakeside locations can.
12. Because we have an awesome minor league baseball team.
Buy yourself (and your loved ones) some peanuts and Cracker Jacks, and cheer the Sea Dogs to victory. There’s nothing like spending a summer afternoon at the ballpark.
13. Because you'll never find a more perfect blueberry pie than one in Maine.
And, it's perfect timing! This time of year you can pick your own in Maine.
14. Because we've got so many ways to get into the outdoors.
Try beachside camping at Hermit Island. But, be sure to make reservations early. This places books up fast! Or, wait until the early fall for cheaper rates.
15. Because we have the Grand Canyon of the East.
If you've never seen Gulf Hagas, you must put this on the top of your summer to-do list. Remember to bring your bathing suit, you'll love the swimming here!
16. Because we do winter right.
Whether snowmobiling (like these folks were doing in St. Agatha) or skiiing, snowshoeing or ice fishing, we know what to do to get us through a winter.
17. Because we've got the first, and arguably, the best sunrise.
Not only can you see the absolute first sunrise in the US in Maine, but you also have three options for viewing depending on the season. You'll want to head to either Mars Hill, Cadillac Mountain or Lubec. From late March to mid-September, you'll want to head to Mars Hill for first light. But, from mid-September through the first week of October, you should head to Quoddy Head. If you want to work for your view and see it from Cadillac Mountain you have some more time. Be there between mid-October and early March and you'll be greeted by America's first light.
18. Because Maine knows how to do small towns right.
If you love small towns, check out any of the Three Rivers Communities. They're all perfectly nice and visiting any will give you the feeling of small-town Maine. Incorporated in 1812, pictured here is Sebec. It's the oldest town in Piscataquis County. Come for the country feel and to visit Sebec Lake on which it is located.
19. Because we've got the best brews.
There are lots of opportunities for tasting. If you're Downeast, check out The Black Bear Brewing Company in Orono, Blank Canvas Brewery in Brewer, or Penobscot Bay Brewery in Winterport.
20. Because you'll be surrounded by a special kind of nature.
Everything is just a little nicer with the water involved.
21. Because we have a giant rock perched on another rock.
If you're a regular reader, you know that this place is one of our favorites. Left behind by a massive glacier, this 100-ton rock is perched precariously on the South Bubble of the Bubble Mountain and Jordan Pond Area.
22. Because it's possible to eat directly on a Maine beach.
If you're in Harpswell, you're already probably a happy Mainer. But, if you need a bit of a boost, enjoy a Shipwrecked Margarita outside at Morse's. Or, just go straight for the seafood nachos! Check them out at: 1945 Harpswell Islands Road, Bailey Island / (207) 833-7775.
23. Because you can give your kids this experience.
If you grew up living in Maine or visiting Maine, you know what this feels like... Spending a long day with your best friends, siblings or cousins and realizing that your parents are going to let you keep playing until the sun goes down. And parents, you'll get to watch this unfold.
If you already love Maine and are looking for our tongue-in-cheek list of things NOT to do in Maine, click here .
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