7 Popular Weekend Getaway Ideas in Maine (2024)
The northernmost in the east U.S.A., home to the hip city of Portland, popular for its Lobsters and Blueberries, the official Vacationland, Maine has many synonyms. And well, why not? Maine, also known as the Pine Tree State, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the U.S.A. The State features everything from spectacular natural scenery to the rugged part of the Atlantic Ocean, sun-kissed sand, grand snowy mountains, and even a small section of the desert (not a legit desert, though). And with all such varieties, Maine makes for an excellent weekend getaway with so many places to explore around.
Maine is diverse and when it comes to weekend getaway ideas, it has a lot of them. You may visit a State Park, a holiday for the weekend in Acadia, or spend some relaxing time in one of Maine’s coastal towns. However, as we know, choosing can become tedious for many, we have got the most popular options shortlisted. Here are the Best Weekend Getaway Ideas in Maine that every local and visitor swears by. Have a look:
7 Popular Weekend Getaway Ideas in Maine
1. Acadia National Park
Well, nothing, and we repeat, nothing can beat Acadia National Park from being the number one tourist destination in the Northeast U.S.A. Maine is home to just one National Park, ‘ Acadia,’ and it is an outdoor wonderland on its own. One can be here on a day trip, road trip, hiking trip, weekend getaway, or a month-long camping holiday; the National Park is meant for it all. Acadia National Park has everything from historic lighthouses to soaring mountains, a breathtaking coastline, a tall waterfall, numerous scenic trails, old settlements, and more. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, you will find a home in Acadia. For a weekend getaway in Acadia National Park, check out:
- Cadillac Mountain
- Jordan Pond Trail and Jordan Pond House
- Park Road Loop
- Sand Beach and the Echo Lake Beach
- Tidal Falls
- Little Moose Island
- Bar Harbor
2. Cranberry Isles
Cranberry Isles offer an ideal weekend escape in Maine within the Acadia National Park. The Cranberry is only a 30-minute ferry ride from Mountain Desert Island, and being here means a total cut off from the city life’s hustle and bustle. Cranberry Isles is home to five islands, though only Greater Cranberry and Little Cranberry are open for public exploration. The former of the two features a gift shop, café, library with a WiFi hot spot, an art gallery, and a small public museum. It even is home to a one-mile-long walking trail that is known for the extravagant Mount Desert Island views. The trail begins at Cranberry House, is marked as easy, and throughout the pathway, it is all about views of moss and fern and endless shaded views. For exploring the Greater and Little Cranberry Islands, individuals can hop on the Free Shuttle Bus called the Cranberry Explorer. The bus carries seven passengers, and a driver travels round-trip each half hour starting at the town dock towards the island’s end.
3. Poland Spring Resort
The Poland Spring Resort isn’t just a resort but an entire holiday destination on its own. The resort is just off the road from a huge natural spring that is known for providing a billion gallons of water a year. The resort in itself is a historic property and has so much to do and explore. Operating since 1794, the Poland Spring Resort is a haven on earth with a home-like atmosphere, extremely hospitable staff, luxurious and comfortable accommodations, mouthwatering food, and a rejuvenating property experience. For accommodation, the resort feature options like regular and presidential, historic Inns, a lodge, and 11 cottages. They also have a pool and daily entertainment, a tennis court, and 5 in-house restaurants. For entertainment and engagement, the resort features an 18-hole, par 71 golf course designed by Donald Ross. If that’s not enough, then attractions like Range Ponds State Park (3.3 miles) and Oxford Casino (8 miles) are within driving proximity.
4. The Lodge at Moosehead Lake
The idea for a weekend getaway for many means spending days in peace and relaxation. And if you, too, are one amongst them, then consider spending your weekend at the Lodge at Moosehead Lake. This stunning Lodge provides an authentic Northwood holiday experience with adequate luxury, good wood, and breathtaking lake and mountain views. The Lodge is a two-story house featuring bedrooms, a living room, a dining room, an open kitchen (fully functional), and a wrap-around deck that opens mesmerizing views of nature. It also features a beautiful yard that is often frequented by local wildlife during the night hours. Guests can enjoy complimentary breakfast, whereas, for dinner, they have quite some options in their in-house dining room. For the ones who want to step out and explore, the Moosehead Marine Museum is 2.5 miles away, and Moose Bay is less than a mile.
5. Windjammer Cruise
It might not sound as, but Windjammer Cruise is an ideal weekend getaway in Maine. Established in 1936, this iconic facility offers multi-day, all-inclusive sailing adventure cruises. Being for a weekend on one of the historic Windjammers is definitely an unforgettable and exciting experience. Each day with Windjammer is a new experience that opens up views, sailing experiences, luxurious sea adventures, and much more. For options, consider Victory Chimes, the only three-masted historic schooner and the largest passenger sailing vessel in the United States in Maine. It departs from Rockland and provides guests with plenty of opportunities to relax and stay adventurous. Another is the schooner Mary Day that, again, departs from Rockland, offering one-night cruises for a memorable weekend getaway. Maine has more such multiple-day cruise sailing options operating from Camden and Rockland.
6. Cape Arundel Inn & Old Fort Estate
For a romantic weekend getaway in Maine, there isn’t a better option than Cape Arundel Inn & Old Fort Estate. This oceanfront hideaway set in a neighborhood of stately summer mansions is undoubtedly a delight to live in.
Cape Arundel basically comprises two different properties, the Cape Arundel Inn and the Old Fort Estate. This picture-perfect land of private and social life allows guests to enjoy authentic Maine services. Guests can either choose to stay at the oceanfront Victorian Mansions or a vintage manor tucked within 15 wooded acres. Experiences in both are worlds apart but absolutely divine and memorable at the same time. Each guest room is warm, cozy, comfortable, and luxurious. At the same time, the resort property in itself has a tranquil vibe that lets people explore themselves in peace. Or if you are willing to explore the surroundings their seasonal supper shuttle is always ready for chauffeured rides into town. The resort is also within a few minutes distance from Kennebunkport’s Dock Square and many other local beaches, museums, and lighthouses.
7. Castine
One of the oldest communities in North America, Castine is a small town located in eastern Maine’s Hancock County. Even though when the town is small in area and population, people find it very interesting and engaging to be here. And why not? Castine is home to history, nature, the famous Maine Maritime Academy, and endless recreational opportunities. The natural splendor of the woods and backdrop of water and mountains give Castine a distinctive yet very appreciable beauty. One can enjoy a private getaway or a full fledges family getaway, and Castine will provide for it all. When in the town, consider exploring Fort George State Park, play at the panoramic Castine Golf Club, take the Castine Harbor Tour, or enjoy the lip-smacking Captain’s Catch seafood.
