Lonely Planet Maine & Acadia National Park

Maine residents are known for being independent and rugged, but they also have a soft spot when it comes to the arts. This is a state with a fabulous collection of artistic treasures, from famous works created by homegrown artists to indigenous treasures from the tribes that flourished here before the Europeans arrived. The state hosts a packed cultural calendar, with year-round plays, dance performances and concerts in Portland, and plenty of surprises beyond, including indie cinema in Bar Harbor, experimental theater in Stonington and a classical-music fest in Brunswick.

Fun Times

Maine has plenty of one-of-a-kind restaurants and striking scenery, but its also an undeniably fun place. You can plan your trip around visiting state fairs, watching pie-eating contests and listening to old-fashioned jam sessions, or spend time frolicking on the beach followed by stargazing around a campfire. You can hit one of the states many food fests (dedicated to lobster, clams, oysters and blueberries), catch an open-air movie at the Bridgton drive-in or indulge in a bit of kitsch watching log rollers and pole climbers at Timber Tinas Great Maine Lumberjack Show.

, Bangor | PINKCANDY/SHUTTERSTOCK

By Regis St Louis, Writer

Its hard not to fall for Maine. What other state has so much going for it, with its gorgeous shorelines, wilderness-filled interior and jagged mountains stretching to the horizon? Theres also the food and drink scene, with its focus on local, sustainable and organic. I love that Maine straddles two worlds: old-fashioned main streets where people still stroll and cutting-edge culture thats helping to revitalize some of its sleepy small towns. The people, though, are the states greatest treasure a tough lot who are willing to weather those long winters to live in this place of such natural riches.

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is where the mountains meet the sea. Miles of rocky coastline and even more miles of hiking and biking trails make this wonderland Maines most popular destination, and deservedly so. The high point (literally) is Cadillac Mountain, the 1530ft peak that can be accessed by foot, bike or vehicle. Early risers can catch the countrys first sunrise from this celebrated summit. Later in the day, cool off with a dip in Echo Lake or take tea and popovers overlooking Jordan Pond.