8 Top-Rated Cities to Visit in Maine (2024)

Maine offers unmatched tourism opportunities, and certainly, that has what made it win the title of ‘The Vacationland.’ This beautiful coast and mountain state has Canada on the North, the Atlantic Ocean on its South and East, and part of New England on its part of New England side. Though Maine is frequently known for its rocky coastline, lighthouses, and mountains, it also has much of splendid city life experiences to offer. So whether you are into food, nature, adventure, shopping, or eating, Maine has an array of places to offer.

Maine is home to nearly 500 municipalities, some 23 incorporated cities, 430 towns, and about 30 plantations. Augusta being its capital, is also Maine’s most popular city, all thanks to its political, historical, and commanding presence. Similar is Portland, the largest city in Maine and the epicenter of tourism, economy, agriculture, and Americana in the State. Maine as a state is incredibly diverse, and no matter how many times you have been here, you probably even don’t know half of that. It takes multiple visits, a well-made itinerary, and the choicest local guidance that can make any trip to Maine fulfilling.

8 Top-Rated Cities to Visit in Maine

And that’s what we are here for. Look through the list of the Most Popular Cities to Visit in Maine and make your trip a rewarding one.

1. Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor is a beautiful seaside village and a popular summer destination in Maine. It is the largest boating harbor north of Boston and, therefore, a must-visit in Maine. This perfect coastal town offers rich history, mouthwatering dining, quaint local and boutique shopping, and world-class boat excursion opportunities. Given its connection to the sea, Boothbay Harbor offers an array of water-based adventure opportunities. And at the same time, it doesn’t make anyone leave without offering what is on its land and surroundings.

Popular Places in Boothbay Harbor

• Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
• Cabbage Island Clambake
• Boothbay Railway Village
• Boothbay Harbor Opera House
• See Burnt Island Light House
• Boothbay Harbor Windjammer Days Festival
• Adventures include kayaking, sailing, and yachting.

2. Portland

The largest city in the State, Portland is a top-rated place to visit in Maine. This historic city on Casco Bay is all about scenic vistas, downtown cobblestone streets, extravagant waterfront, food, shopping, and hitting the beach waters. Portland, though, is a metropolitan city, but it boasts a small-town charm. Visitors can either relax and observe the enchanting natural views or get up and indulge in fun activities. Everything that you do in Portland offers enduring memories no matter what age or interest you have.

Popular places in Portland

• Commercial Street along the downtown district
• Portland Museum of Art
• 5th Maine Museum and International Cryptozoology Museum
• Allagash Brewery
• Portland Discovery Land and Sea Tours
• Maine Foodie Tours for Portland’s Culinary experiences

3. Augusta

Maine’s capital, Augusta, is another popular summer destination in the State. Once a small city, Augusta is today the centerpiece of art and economic and unending city life. Capital cities, though, are high on fast pacing growth, sky-rising towers, and unending affairs, but Augusta still keeps its major focus on tradition, culture, and heritage. The Augusta locals have been warm and inviting enough through all these years. Most Maine visitors choose Augusta as their beginning point, and the capital city undoubtedly stands strong as the best host.

Popular Places in Augusta

• Fort Western (A Must-Visit)
• Maine State Museum
• The Governor Hill Mansion
• Viles Arboretum
• State House or the Capitol Building
• Viles Arboretum
• Old Post Office

4. Rockland

Another top-rated place to visit in Maine, Rockland, is popular for operating Maine’s lobster fishing industry. A visit here allows individuals to try next-level delicious lobster in not one or two but multiple creative ways. Seafood is definitely the USP of Rockland, and the grand colors of the same can be seen at Maine Lobster Festival. Apart from food, Rockland is also popular for its great architecture, lighthouses, beauty, and majesty. It, though, doesn’t offer major tourism when compared to Augusta and Portland, but Rockland is more popular for its cheaper, quieter, and less touristy options.

Popular Places to visit in Rockland

• Rockland Breakwater and Lighthouse
• Maine Lighthouse Museum
• Maine Lobster Festival
• Maine State Ferry Service for a ride
• Sandy Beach
• Rockland Harbor Trail
• Farnsworth Art Museum
• Olson House

5. York

A renowned resort destination in Maine, York is located around the southern tip of the State by the Gulf of Maine. The city consists of 4 pristine and incredible beaches, three 18-hole golf courses, natural landscapes, adventure grounds, and indoor attractions. York boasts both common as well as unique options that no tourist will go back disappointed. In addition to exploring legitimate tourist attractions, York visitors can also go shopping and gallery hopping, a must-to-do in the city. York is also the second oldest town in Maine, incorporated in 1652, and therefore finding a glimpse of the past is quite prominent here.

Popular Places in York

• Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse
• Long Sands Beach, Short Sands Beach, and Harbor Beach.
• York’s Wild Kingdom Zoo and Fun Park
• Wiggly Bridge and Steedman Woods
• Silverlining Sailing for Water-based adventure
• Retro Style Trolley Bus for city tours
• Mount Agamenticus Hiking

6. Kennebunkport

Located in the Southern part of Maine, Kennebunkport is famous for shipping and fish building. Not only Maine but Kennebunkport is also known as a viral tourist destination in New England. This coastal mecca is one of the oldest European-settled towns in the United States and, therefore, full of rich and varied history. Beaches and water activities are dominating here, but there is a lot more than that in the city. From museums to historic structures, tours, and good food, Kennebunkport has an appreciable share of everything that makes up for excellent tourism. Cafes, art galleries, and upscale boutiques are the unavoidable charm of this coastal city.

Popular Places in Kennebunkport

• Seashore Trolley Museum and First Families Kennebunkport Museum
• Intown Trolley Tours
• Maine Foodie Tours Kennebunkport
• First Chance Whale Watch
• Kennebunk Beach and Gooch’s Beach
• Parsons Way Trail
• Saint Ann’s Church

7. Bangor

Bangor is a growing city in Maine which is also one of the top places to settle down in America. Though Bangor has seen some difficult years while rising today, after much effort over the decades, it has become a popular center for vibrant Art and Culture. During the mid of 19th century, Bangor was initially in the lumber industry and was popular for building ships. However, currently, the city has included retail, education, and healthcare into the scene, and yes, not to forget, the growing tourism. Maine locals who look for a peaceful change often consider Bangor as their next traveling destination.

Popular Places in Bangor

• Cole Land Transportation Museum and Maine Discovery Museum
• Stephen King’s “Derry” House
• Penobscot River Walkway
• Mount Hope Garden Cemetery
• Bangor Waterfront Pavilion
• Bangor Historical Society and Thomas A. Hill House Museum
• Zillman Art Museum, University of Maine
• Thomas Hill Standpipe for incredible views

8. Bath

The last on our list is Bath, a popular Maine city that is also known as the City of Ships. The population here is less than 9000, but tourism keeps on thriving in the city regardless of whatever time of the year it is. While most of them choose Bath for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, others come drawn here for its small-town vibes. Not just that but Bath’s downtown offer art exhibits, theater plays, and live music year-round, and they have a vibe for all of it. Its downtown area is also popular for boutiques, antique shops, jewelry shops, specialty stores, and other shopping wonders.

Popular Places in Bath

• Maine Maritime Museum and Joshua L. Chamberlain Museum
• Seguin Island and Lighthouse
• Chocolate Church
• Josephine Newman Sanctuary
• Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park
• Sewell Pond Conservation Area
• Maine’s First Ship