Michelle's life is a colorful map of exploration and adventure. From the iconic streets of New York to the sunny shores of Florida, the jagged coast of Maine to the rugged terrain of Montana, she's been fortunate to call some of America's most beautiful states home. Beyond the U.S., Michelle's wanderlust has taken her on a motorcycle journey through India, led her to teach English in Hanoi, and saw her studying Spanish in Guatemala. Michelle graduated with a communications degree from the S. I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and in addition to a career in advertising has worked with OnlyInYourState since 2016, where her love for travel and storytelling converges. Alongside writing and exploring, Michelle finds joy in photography, staying active, and time with her family.
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Maine beauty is on full display these days. With autumn in full swing, a simple drive to the grocery store can be a picture perfect, calendar-worthy experience. But, if you’re looking for something special to do this weekend make your way to the midcoast for a visit to this coastal town. You might associate more with summertime, but we think it truly shines this time of year. There are plenty of things to do in Castine, Maine so carve out some time before winter sets in and make the trip.
Beautiful Castine, Maine sits about 130 miles north of Portland right on the waters of Penobscot Bay.
The beautiful Main Street is quintessential Maine and it offers tons of opportunities for shopping, dining, and drinking. This is where the majority of businesses are located, making it a great place to start your visit with a fun stroll.
The town is big enough to warrant spending an entire weekend, but if you have only one day you'll still find yourself able to enjoy it without feeling rushed.
The homes located on the quiet streets are fun to look at while imagining what life might be like in a quiet part of Maine where things move more slowly.
This place is perfect if you love the way hotels used to be. The location overlooks Penobscot Bay and there's a wonderful and relaxing wraparound porch for an idle afternoon enjoying a good book. They're located at 33 Main St. and can be reached at (207) 326-4365.
To start your day, head to MarKel's Bakehouse, which has delicious breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and baked goods as well as a wonderful outdoor deck. If it's a nice day, you'll want to enjoy a cup of coffee out here before hitting the road.
Another great stop on a tour of Main Street should be the newly re-opened Compass Rose Books where you can find new books, work by local artists and even art supplies.
Once you've gone from the high end of Main Street to the lower end, make sure to walk along the water. This is truly a coastal town through and through, which means this might be the best part!
To understand more about the history of this coastal community, stop by the Castine Historical Society. While exhibits are closed for the year, you can visit their office in the Grindle House from Monday through Friday to ask any questions you might have after a day of exploring.
Another must-see is the Dyce Lighthouse which was built in 1828. It's privately owned now, but there are paths around it allowing for beautiful views of the water.
For a map and driving directions to Castine from your own starting point, click here.
Another fun weekend trip is heading to the Rangeley area for this beautifully scenic drive. You’ll see some of the best fall foliage and experience the best that inland Maine has to offer.
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