Maine is a wonderful place to visit year-round. With four distinct seasons, Maine’s small towns have so much to offer to all visitors. Each storybook town is unique and quaint. The small towns in Maine are definitely worth visiting and add to the beauty of Maine. There are also many road trips that can be taken across Maine to enjoy these towns from the more popular ones to the lesser-known ones.
Small Towns in Southern Maine
Kittery
Population: 10,000
Right over the border from New Hampshire, you get into Kittery. This town is the first look into the types of towns you can experience in Maine. Another quaint, storybook town that is incredibly popular in the summer. As Maine’s oldest town, there is plenty to do in Kittery, not all of it has to do with history. Near Kittery is Badger’s Island which is right off the coast and has plenty of interesting historical sights.
There is so much to do in Kittery. In the summer Kittery is alive with plenty of outdoor activities. The beach is definitely the most popular place in the summer. You can also kayak and paddleboard in the water. I will say, personally, the water is too cold for me year-round. There are also plenty of museums and places to go shopping. The coolest thing to do is go on a Seafari Tour.
York
Population: 14,000
This coastal town about an hour over the line from New Hampshire is a great summer town to visit. The downtown boasts many shops, a zoo, and a beach. York also has a lighthouse that is open to visit. It is one of my favorite towns to visit in Maine. It truly embodies what you would expect out of a quaint New England town. The people are incredibly kind, but it is a touristy town. Expect that most stores and restaurants are closed when it is off-season and they are super busy in the summer.
There are so many wonderful things to do in York, check them out here!
Ogunquit
Population: 1,600
Ogunquit is a fun place to visit especially if you enjoy outdoor activities. The most famous part of Ogunquit is the Cliff Walk. The cliff walk is a great way to enjoy the views that this town has to offer. You will be able to overlook the beach as well as have some spots to stop for a picnic or just to sit and enjoy a relaxing view. Going down to the shore you can enjoy Ogunquit Beach as well. Aside from the beach Ogunquit also has museums and candy shops. Truly a cute town to visit!
Newry
Population: 411
The most popular thing to do in Newry is to go skiing! This small town is the place to visit in winter, there are plenty of ski resorts in Maine to check out. Another really cool thing in Newry is the guided dog sledding experience. It is truly such a unique experience. Luckily, there are plenty of outdoor activities in Newry in the summer as well. Of course, there are all the mountain activities in the summer such as hiking. Additionally, there is the Frenchman’s swimming hole and a couple of waterfalls (you know how much I love waterfalls)! There is also a relaxing spa which is great for post-skiing or post-hiking.
Portland is a large city in Maine that can be a good home base for many short trips to these towns.
Small Towns in Central Maine
Camden
Population: 5,200
Camden is a postcard-worthy coastal town in Central Maine. Don’t take it from me, they describe themselves as the Jewel of Maine. In the summer their population more than triples due to the tourists. As you can tell, it is a very popular town to visit. Camden isn’t only a summer town, but it is also the home to the only ocean-view ski resort on the Eastern Seaboard, Camden Snow Bowl. National toboggan competitions are held there every year.
One of my favorite places to explore in Camden is the historic downtown. It’s full of adorable local shops and you can truly make a day of it. Camden also has great ocean and harbor views. A great way to explore it is by doing a Schooner tour. It is such a quintessential New England activity. Don’t forget that it is a working harbor so you will see lobstermen coming in with their fresh catches. Along with the mountain and beaches, Camden has plenty of historic sites and museums for visitors.
Bath
Population: 8,800
Bath is a cool town on the water, centered around Bath Iron Works. While you cannot enter BIW, you can see what they are working on on the water. This town is steeped in shipbuilding history and it is evident all over town. While the “old-world” architecture speaks to the wealth brought in by shipbuilding, the town is truly accessible to all. Bath has one of the world’s best maritime museums. Given its rich history with the sea, there are also beaches to explore. Finally, you can enjoy all the shops and cafes in the delightful downtown.
Rockland/Thomaston
Population: 6,900
The Rockland & Thomaston area is one we have spent a lot of time exploring and enjoying. One of the coolest things about Rockland is just how many wonderful fairs and festivals are going on. From the world-famous Maine Lobster Festival to the Windjammer Parade and even a Christmas Tree made out of lobster traps. The whole downtown is on the water which makes for a great place to go along for a walk. You can peruse downtown enjoying ocean views along the way. Notably, you can head down to the breakwater for a walk directly into the ocean with a lighthouse at the end. The Rockland Breakwater is 4,364 feet rock bridge straight into the ocean.
The main thing to check out in Thomaston would be the Maine State Prison Showroom. It’s all products made by prisoners who are working on rebuilding their lives by learning a skill. Some pretty incredible things in that store show off their skills. While you’re there check out Dorman’s Ice Cream, definitely get a sundae while you’re there.
Owl’s Head
Population: 1,600
Home of the best burger in New England! While you may not expect it of this tiny town right on the coast, they do have a great burger. Tucked away in the Owl’s Head General Store, you will find an unexpected restaurant with their claim to fame delicious burger. Additionally, this cute general store also has a fudge factory. I will say of all the great things to do in Owl’s Head, eating your weight in homemade fudge is probably the best. This adorable town also has a must-see lighthouse! It is on the water which lends to incredible views.
Waldoboro
Population: 5,044
A stop at Moody’s Diner just north of downtown Waldoboro for a late breakfast or lunch is highly recommended. Great food and even better prices. They are famous for their pies, so make sure you save some room for that. They also serve Ice Cream and for some reason, they also have a motel, cabins, and a gift shop. Additionally, Waldoboro is known as the largest soft-shell clam landing in Maine. They also have a steep tradition of cheese-making.
Wiscasset
Population: 3,700
Wiscasset is a very popular town in Maine, it is one of the most photographed towns along with Camden in Maine. There are many great reasons to visit Wiscasset. It is a charming town with an adorable downtown that you are required to drive through when you are passing through town. It is a town that is full of surprises like the smallest church in the world. The neighborhoods and houses add to the storybook charm that makes Wiscasset worth visiting. It is also known for its lobster rolls. Check out Sarah’s Cafe, Le Garage, and Sea Basket.
PRO-TIP: Do not go to the roadside stand that is Red’s Eats. It’s absolutely a tourist trap. The lines are always very long, the food is overly expensive, and the product isn’t worth the price. It’s also a big contributor to the massive traffic backup.
Damariscotta
Population: 2,300
This town has been a favorite among travelers for a long time because of its charm and fresh Pemaquid oysters. This town nestled in Mid-Coast Maine makes for a wonderfully relaxing vacation. There are plenty of outdoor activities in Damariscotta. One of the best ways to explore the waters is by doing some kayaking. There are, also, river cruises with some fun different-themed nights. My favorite places to visit in new towns are farmer’s markets, definitely check out the one in this down as well as the Pumpkinfest. It is particularly gorgeous in the fall with all the leaves changing colors.
Boothbay & Boothbay Harbor
Population: 2,000
A truly captivating town in Maine! Right on the harbor, Boothbay Harbor is separated by the water, there is a bridge that connects them; making it an even more fun set of towns to explore. The rocky shore, quiet coves, and majestic lighthouses will captivate you during your visits. Given that it is on the harbor some of the best things to do is to explore the harbor either by taking a harbor boat tour or going sea kayaking. You can also explore Burnt Island Lighthouse, Monhegan Island, or take a scenic drive down Ocean Point. Finally, while you are here hit up the largest botanical garden in New England.
Small Towns in Northern Maine
Bar Harbor
Population: 5,100
The small town that serves Acadia National Park is a very busy town. It is definitely a tourist hot spot, especially in the summer. The town is incredibly walkable and allows you easy access to Acadia. Tourists flock to the area for the food, outdoor activities, and the charming little shops. I would recommend visiting during the shoulder seasons if you’re trying to avoid the crowds. Just remember it gets cold quickly and for a long time.
Ellsworth
Population: 8,400
Ellsworth is home to the Great Maine Lumberjack Show with regular shows that include “12 exciting events packed into an hour and 15-minute show.” This is also a good city to stop in if you need any supplies as it’s one of the bigger towns. If you’re looking for a classic Maine Restaurant, I would suggest Govenor’s Restaurant. Make sure you take a look at their always-changing dessert case. If you’re feeling very adventurous (or with a big group), take a look at the Federal Deficient.
If you miss the turn towards Ellsworth, you’ll end up in Bangor, Maine. But, that’s not so bad a destination either.
Mount Desert Island
Population: 10,400
Mount Desert Island, otherwise known as MDI, is home to Acadia National Park. Acadia has many beaches and lighthouses as well as lots of hiking paths. It is a beautiful area to check out with plenty of time. It can be the entire vacation. Many people enjoy going camping at Acadia as well. There are also self-guided driving audio tours or narrated bus tours.
Millinocket
Population: 4,200
Known as “Maine’s Biggest Small Town“, Millinocket has something special for everyone. Recreation, trails, and adventure are all found in this small town on the edge of Maine’s forest. It is the gateway to Mount Katahdin and home to the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. There is a vast network of lakes, trail systems, day hikes, and all-season recreational opportunities for everyone who visits. Of all the towns in Maine, this is truly an outdoor playland for all people during all seasons.
Lincoln
Population: 2,800
Lincoln is found on the water with plenty of riverfront and shoreline. This means there is ample fishing, kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming (if you’re not cold-averse). There are many trails, hikes, and lots of local shops to pop into. Most famously they are known for their loon festival every July. Loon Fest has been going on for 50 years and it includes fireworks and plenty of food! Look Fest even has its own redneck regatta.
Caribou
Population: 7,300
Part of a grouping of three towns in way northern Maine you’ll find Caribou. A casual 8-hour drive from Boston, this small town takes you to the border of Maine and Canada. This town is only getting smaller these days as there are fewer jobs and it is quite cold for about 6 months out of the year. It is a great town for winter outdoor activities. In the summer there are ATV trails and fishing. The fall foliage is beautiful in the fall as well.
Final Thoughts about Small Towns in Maine
There are so many wonderful small towns to visit in Maine. They are not all found along the coast, but they also dot the middle of Maine. Each town has its own vibe as well as its own list of fun activities. The great thing about Maine is that you can visit many towns on one trip. Luckily, you don’t need to limit yourself to just one town. Finally, there are also both winter and summer activities which really have something for everyone.
