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The easternmost state in the contiguous US, Maine lures visitors to its rocky shores with the promise of fresh lobster, salty air, and classic New England charm. Its biggest city, Portland, is situated on a southern peninsula and contains 40% of the state's total 1.3 million population. But outside of Portland's Greater Metropolitan Area, Maine's landscape is rugged, vast, and remote, averaging about 23 people per square mile.
Nicknamed "Vacationland," the trappings of Maine draw more than 15 million visitors a year. Some gravitate to Portland, regaled for its amazing food and respected art scene. Others seek peaceful respites on islands, in coastal towns, or on the shores of the state's numerous lakes and ponds (6,000 in total). The result is a destination that holds endless appeal, blending food, history, art, and the outdoors into one wicked good place to visit.
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Never miss a deal to Maine. Head to the Going app to find deals around $192 roundtrip (that's 52% off the regular price)!
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Where to go by interest
Maine has a little something for everyone, whether you're looking for food, history, or outdoor adventures. Pick your lane-or mix them all-for a trip that feels tailor-made.
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For culture and craft everything: Greater Portland. Art galleries, indie shops, breweries, and one of the hottest food scenes in the US.
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For a slow, romantic escape: Islands and coastal towns. Hop ferries to serene spots like Peaks Island or Monhegan, or wander seaside villages where lobster shacks and art galleries set the pace.
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For history buffs: Route 1 and Bar Harbor. Shipbuilding towns, lighthouses, and Fort Knox along Maine's portion of the Atlantic Highway, then dig deeper into Indigenous heritage at Bar Harbor's Abbe Museum.
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For adventure seekers: Acadia National Park and Mount Katahdin. Climb Cadillac Mountain for sunrise views, paddle Acadia's wild coastline, or take on the rugged challenge of Maine's tallest peak.
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"You can't get there from here"
A common Maine saying. Maybe more accurate, though: "You can get there, but it will take a heck of a lot longer than it should." Given Maine's rural landscape, much of it is accessed on winding, two-lane roads, which primarily run north to south, not east to west. As a result, there often isn't a direct route between places, making for longer driving times or more complicated routes. Example: Acadia's Mount Desert Island and Schoodic Peninsula are just miles apart by air but over an hour apart by car.
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Wicked good eats
Food in Maine is more than lobster rolls (though you'll want to try that, too). Thanks to farms, markets, and innovative chefs, the state's food scene is as fresh and creative as it comes.
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Lobster: Sweet and tender fresh from the claw, or loaded into a roll and dripping with butter, like McLoons Lobster Shack serves it. Take your pick.
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Oysters: A local wintertime favorite (the cold water makes them extra briny and sweet). Stop by Portland's Harbor Fish Market for a dozen varieties, or try Glidden Point Oyster Farm, complete with a take-out window and seasonal farm tours and sauna.
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DIY clams: Cobscook Bay State Park has ideal conditions for soft-shell clams, and at low tide, campers are permitted to clam for a peck (12 pounds) of clams per day.
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Farm-fresh food: Maine ranks #2 in the US for most organic farms per capita. Markets brim with blueberries, corn, local cheese, jams, and pickles. Stop by the Common Ground Fair in September to see 1,000+ exhibits, vendors, and speakers.
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Renowned fare: Portland is where it's at. Try James Beard-nominated spots like Fore Street and The Honey Paw, or inventive hotspots like Twelve and Mr. Tuna. Other local picks: Scales and Eventide. And don't miss Allagash Brewing Company for a pint.
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Baked goods: Fuel your adventures with perfect breads and pastries from local Portland bakeries, such as Standard Baking Co. and Norimoto Bakery.
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Most places in Maine open anywhere from 8-11am and close earlier than expected. Be sure to check Google Maps or social media for current hours.
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Stick season specialties
Maine doesn't stick to one script. Summer means rocky coasts and lobster rolls, fall brings some of the best foliage in the country, winter delivers snowy slopes, and spring is all about maple syrup. Here are some top fall and winter picks to kick the post-peak-season blues.
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Apple picking: Orchards across Maine offer everything from classic McIntosh to heirloom varieties, plus fresh cider donuts and hayrides. Head to Treworgy Family Orchards in Levant or Ricker Hill Orchards in Turner for the full autumn experience.
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Peak foliage: Time your visit for late September through mid-October when sugar maples explode in reds and oranges. Drive the scenic Rangeley Lakes Scenic Byway or hike up Cadillac Mountain in Acadia for panoramic views.
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Sugarloaf skiing: Maine's second-highest peak delivers 1,240 skiable acres and the only above-treeline skiing in the East. The mountain's steep terrain and reliable snow make it a favorite among skiers, plus the base village keeps things lively après-ski.
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Winter festivals: Maine embraces the cold with celebrations like the Rangeley Lakes Snowmobile Festival (the "Snodeo") and Maine Celebration of Lights. Bundle up for sledding competitions and warm bowls of chowder that taste even better when snow is falling outside.
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Maine flight price history
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$192 Average Going deal
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$399 Normal ticket price
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Interested in a trip to Maine?
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Recent deals we've sent
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