Discover all the secret spots that “Mainers” and “Down Easters” love to covet, including spectacular natural wonders, roadside attractions, and artistic installations.
Maine might be known for its lobster, lighthouses, and pine forests, but it’s also home to some truly curious attractions and unforgettable sights. So, get in your car, fill up the tank, and hit the interstate (psst…don’t forget our visitor’s guide).
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Alexander Art Trail
A whimsical woodland experience
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Showcasing the biggest hand-carved outdoor sculpture collection in the state, the Alexander Art Trail is tucked away in Maine’s secluded eastern forests, creating a truly enchanting atmosphere for all who visit. Discover 2 dozen carvings that are peppered throughout the trees, expertly carved from oak by skilled Lithuanian artists.
Here, fairy-tale chairs mingle with smiling brown bears and mysterious woodland folk. Locate the sculptures yourself or take a riveting guided tour with Grazina or Edward: the trail’s knowledgeable hosts.
Location: 70 Barrows Lake Rd, Alexander, ME 04694, USA
Phone: +1 207-454-3563
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Maine Solar System Model
A cosmic road trip for aspiring astronauts
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Discover the largest 3D scale model of the solar system in the western hemisphere from the comfort of your car. The Maine Solar System Model spans almost 100 miles along US Route 1 between the towns of Houlton and Topsfield.
The brainchild of the University of Maine at Presque Isle, MSSM features large roadside replicas of major planets including Mercury, Venus, and Mars, as well as lesser-known celestial bodies like Ceres and Eris. Part science museum, part scavenger hunt, this quirky American road trip promises a great time for everybody.
Open: 24/7
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Wild Blueberry Land
Stuff yourself silly at this roadside icon
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Situated in the rolling green fields of Columbia Falls, Wild Blueberry Land is a magical Maine attraction that’s known for all things round, blue, and juicy. You can’t miss this Route 1 landmark either – just keep your eyes peeled for its giant geodesic dome that looks like, you guessed it, a blueberry.
Swing by the farm to shop delicious wild blueberry products including syrups, candles, muffins, and scones. Sample blueberry ale beer (don’t knock it ‘til you try it) as well as blueberry pies and blueberry soft drink.
Location: 1067 US-1, Columbia Falls, ME 04623, USA
Open: Hours vary by season
Phone: +1 207-483-2583
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Harriet Beecher Stowe House
Former home of the US author and abolitionist
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HBS House is an architectural jewel, located in the leafy town of Brunswick, Maine. A National Historic Landmark, this property was home to Harriet Beecher Stowe, the American literary icon who penned the 1852 novel Uncle Tom's Cabin.
Built between 1506 and 1807, this Greek Revival beauty features a vanilla white exterior, apple green window shutters, and placards commemorating its historic past. Located in the heart of town, one can easily pay a visit to this notable attraction before stopping for lunch at a local restaurant.
Location: 63 Federal St, Brunswick, ME 04011, USA
Open: Thursday–Saturday from 10 am to 4pm, Sunday from noon to 4pm (closed on Mondays, Tuesday and Wednesday)
Phone: +1 207-725-3433
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Birch Point State Park
A beautiful beach that’s off the beaten track
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Situated in the sleepy town of Owls Head, Birch Point State Park is a sprawling 62-acre haven that’s popular with fishermen and picnickers. Overlooking Penobscot Bay, BPSP delivers scenic glimpses of the Muscle Ridge Islands from its crescent-moon-shaped beach.
One can easily spend an afternoon strolling the sandy shoreline, beachcombing for shells, sunbathing on the rocks, or casting a line into the sea for saltwater rock bass. At each end of the beach, you’ll find tiny trails that lead to the headlands – the perfect spot to post on Instagram.
Location: 459 S Shore Dr, Owls Head, ME 04854, USA
Open: Daily from 9 am to 7 pm
Phone: +1 207-941-4014
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Eartha Globe
An awe-inspiring roadside highlight
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The largest rotating globe on the planet, Eartha Globe is a totally free attraction that draws visitors for miles. At 41 feet, this massive Maine icon offers up visually captivating photo opportunities that are beloved by the young (and young at heart).
View the globe from ground level or ascend to the third storey for amazing aerial views. Stop here when you’re on the way to other state attractions such as scenic Littlejohn Island, historic Bangor, or quaint and genteel Cape Elizabeth.
Location: DeLorme Dr, Yarmouth, ME 04096, USA
Open: Monday–Friday from 9 am to 3 pm (closed on weekends)
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Desert of Maine
Hold up. Maine has a desert?
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It’s true. Desert of Maine is the next best thing to the majestic Southwest when you’re way up north in the Pine Tree State. Featuring 40 acres of glacial sands and innumerable rolling dunes, this historic attraction is starkly beautiful (if not a little strange).
It doesn’t matter whether you’re 6 years old or 60, all ages love this seemingly never-ending expanse of golden de-vegetated dirt. Kids can unearth fossils and minerals at Gemstone Village while adults can visit the Buried Spring House exhibit on a self-guided tour.
Location: 95 Desert Rd, Freeport, ME 04032, USA
Open: Open seasonally from May to October
Phone: +1 207-250-2550
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Gnome Home Roam
Little people love it!
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What started off as a community project to persuade kids to play outside soon grew into a full-blown gnome zone! Gnome Home Roam is a quirky Maine attraction designed for children (and young-at-heart adults), filled with scenic trails and over 30 artisan gnomes.
Located at the Rangeley Lakes Trails Centre, you’ll have so much fun exploring the woodland and finding all the gnomes in their quaint wooden houses. The reserve is also a recreational utopia, beloved by skiers and bikers, set at the foot of Saddleback Mountain.
Location: 524 Saddleback Mountain Rd, Rangeley, ME 04970, USA
Open: Daily from 8.30 am to 4 pm
Phone: +1 207-864-4309
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Asticou Azalea Garden
The Art of Zen
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Inspired by a traditional Japanese aesthetic, the Asticou Azalea Garden on Maine’s Mount Desert Island encompasses 2.3 acres of landscapes planted with azaleas, cherry blossoms, water lilies, and rhododendrons. Designed by local resident Charles Kenneth Savage, this botanical sanctuary is a riot of colour and a feast for the senses.
Wind your way along the pathways, meditate by the mirror-like pond, or marvel at the raked Japanese sand garden. The town of Northeast Harbour is only minutes from the park and is filled with restaurants, shops, and a stunning marina.
Location: ME-3, Mt Desert, ME 04660, USA
Open: Opens from 1st of May
Phone: +1 207-276-3699
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Giant's Stairs
A coastal phenomenon (with succulent seafood)
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Located on Maine’s charming, craggy Bailey Island, Giant’s Stairs is a characterful walking trail that’s celebrated for its rocky coastline, unique geology, and dazzling ocean vista. Overlooking eastern Casco Bay and the dramatic blue of the wider Atlantic, the trail gets its name from its unusual erosion pattern.
Keep your eyes peeled for harbour seals, big crashing waves, and a bounty of birdlife including white-winged scoters and common eiders. Afterwards, reward yourself with a delicious plate at one of the island’s lobster restaurants – try Dolphin Marina or Erica’s Seafood.
Location: 19 Ocean St, Bailey Island, ME 04003, USA
Open: Daily from 7 am to 8 pm
Phone: +1 207-833-5771
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