7 Picturesque Small Towns in Maine for a Weekend Retreat
With its rugged, rocky Atlantic coastline, unique maritime history, and abundance of scenic natural areas, Maine has been aptly named "Vacationland." This scenic state on the upper East Coast, featuring beaches dotted with historic lighthouses, attracts more than 25 million visitors annually. Come and see what all the hype is about by spending a weekend in one of Maine's picturesque small towns. Whether you're seeking a relaxing retreat or an action-packed mini-vacation, you'll find it here.
Greenville
What sets charming Greenville apart from other pretty towns is the fact that it's situated on Moosehead Lake, Maine's largest lake. The lake is 40 miles long and 20 miles wide, making it the ideal spot for fishing, swimming, boating, and other aquatic adventures. In addition to its lakeside location, Greenville is nestled in the heart of the lush Maine Highlands, home to forests, lakes, streams, and mountain terrain. History lovers won't want to miss a trip to the Moosehead Marine Museum, which features an interesting collection of artifacts detailing the town's rich nautical past. The Center for Moosehead History and the Moosehead Lake Aviation Museum are two other attractions worth visiting. If you're looking for a rustic weekend retreat, consider the Moosehead Family Campground or the Moose Mountain Inn, conveniently situated on a snowmobile and snowshoe trail.
Rockland
Rockland is a quaint, historic seaside town situated on the western shore of Penobscot Bay. With its waterfront location, picturesque downtown filled with one-of-a-kind boutiques and eateries, and abundance of outdoor activities, Rockland is the perfect weekend getaway. Throughout the year, the town hosts a variety of special events, including the North Atlantic Blues Festival, the Maine Boat and Home Show, and the Maine Lobster Festival. As you stroll down Rockland's scenic main street, you can watch lobstermen and women check their traps, as well as boats coming and going. If history is your interest, spend a morning or afternoon at the Farnsworth Art Museum, the Maine Lighthouse Museum, or the Sail Power and Steam Museum. The Center for Maine Contemporary Art is another must-see attraction during your weekend visit. After enjoying a seafood feast at one of the town's locally-owned restaurants, you can work it off with a walk on the Rockland Harbor Trail. The town has no shortage of comfortable accommodations, such as the Rockland Talbot House or the Lighthouse Lookout.
Ogunquit
Ogunquit spoils visitors with its miles of sandy beaches, impressive rock cliffs, picturesque coastline, abundant shopping, outdoor recreational opportunities, and thriving arts scene. It's no secret why Ogunquit, which is the Abenaki word for "beautiful place by the sea," is one of Maine's top-ranked vacation destinations. Located on the state's southern coast, charming Ogunquit is home to the Marginal Way, a walking trail that meanders across cliffs, offering stunning ocean views complete with sailboats and a lighthouse. If you're visiting during the summer, pull up a chair and relax on Ogunquit Beach, which is close to downtown. The Ogunquit Heritage Museum, located in the former 18th-century home of Captain James Winn, gives visitors an informative look into local history through exhibits and artifacts. The Ogunquit Museum of American Art is another must-see attraction during your weekend retreat. When you're done exploring all the town has to offer, turn in at the beachfront Norseman Resort.
Camden
No matter what time of year you wish to take a relaxing retreat, the quaint town of Camden has you covered. Conveniently located between the ocean and mountains on Penobscot Bay, Camden's High Street Historic District is the ideal place for a weekend stroll. The charming district features 19th-century homes, the restored Camden Opera House, which showcases live entertainment, and a unique collection of boutiques, coffee shops, and eateries. Take advantage of the town's waterfront location by engaging in outdoor adventures during the warm spring and summer months. You can rent a canoe, paddleboard, or kayak for the weekend at local shops such as Maine Sport Outfitters. Another way to take in the beauty of the bay is by signing up for a sailing cruise on the Schooner Olad and Cutter Owl. Camden offers the perfect mix of casual cabins and luxurious lodging options, depending on the type of experience you're looking for. History lovers will feel at home at the Swan House Bed and Breakfast Inn, which was built in 1870 and is a short walk from downtown.
Castine
When you think of the quintessential Maine beachfront town, pretty Castine should come to mind. Castine boasts a rich seafaring history, still evident in its perfectly preserved 18th and 19th-century Georgian, Federal, and Victorian-style homes, and its walkable village of boutiques, art galleries, and eateries. Explore the scenic coastline by renting a canoe or kayak from Castine Kayak Adventures, or set sail on a tour with Castine Cruises. If you want to learn more about the town's exciting past, spend a day at either the Castine Historical Society, which is free and open to the public, or the Wilson Museum. For sporty visitors, the town offers the Castine Golf Club and the Castine Tennis Club, both open for public play. If you want to live like a local for a few days, you can rent a quaint, fully-equipped cottage from Castine Cottages.
Stonington
Situated at the southern end of Deer Isle, the pretty and peaceful town of Stonington is connected to the mainland by bridges. Known as the gateway to the Merchant's Row archipelago, a large cluster of islands, Stonington's location at the end of the peninsula makes it an ideal weekend retreat destination. Although Stonington boasts a rich fishing industry history, it's also known as a haven for artists, who draw inspiration from the natural landscape and scenery. Begin your visit by spending a few hours at the Deer Isle-Stonington Historical Society to gain local insights. If you're interested in live performances while in town, check out Opera House Arts, which showcases the talent of local musicians and dancers year-round. Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the 98-acre Crockett Cove Woods Preserve, a unique, densely-packed fog forest. Stonington offers a variety of convenient accommodation options, ranging from campgrounds to waterfront resorts like the Inn on the Harbor.
Boothbay Harbor
Located in the Midcoast region of Maine, halfway between the bustling cities of Portland and Boston, Boothbay Harbor sits on a picturesque peninsula with a perfect blend of small-town charm and exciting activities, making it an ideal weekend retreat. Learn about the town's waterfront past by visiting the Boothbay Region Historical Society or the Boothbay Railway Village. Boothbay Harbor is also home to the Carousel Music Theater and the Maine State Aquarium, which offers an introspective look into the Gulf of Maine ecosystem. One of the best ways to explore the area and appreciate its natural beauty is by renting a kayak or canoe, or booking a seat on one of Cap'n Fish's Whale Watch and Puffin Cruises. While lodging opportunities in Boothbay Harbor are plentiful, Captain Sawyer's Bed and Breakfast Inn offers a chance to relax and unwind in a former sea captain's Victorian-era home.
The Takeaway
When you're craving a seaside weekend retreat in a town that's easy on the eyes, Maine does not disappoint. You can spend your time boating along the miles of Atlantic coastline or relaxing in a cabin perched on a bay, taking in the day-to-day life of a busy fishing village. Maine's small towns offer something for everyone, whether you're an arts and culture enthusiast, an avid fisherman, or a history buff.
