Maine, situated in the northeastern part of the United States of America, is the easternmost state bordering Canada. Maine has a rich heritage and culture, well worth exploring, and a naturally beautiful landscape including a rocky coastline and a strong maritime history.

Maine is a haven for visitors looking to get away from the rush and bustle of everyday life with many picturesque and exquisite settings to discover.

Whether you are touring the Acadia National Park or discovering hidden treasures like York, Maine is a place where visitors have an opportunity to indulge their wanderlust and let their imaginations run wild.

Maine is renowned for being the Appalachian Trail’s end, where weary hikers are greeted with the majestic Baxter State Park and the legendary Mount Katahdin after a 3,500-kilometer journey.

Travelers have no idea that when the route ends, another journey starts, Maine is just at their feet and nicknamed the Pine State is a picturesque portion of the country with a strong maritime history, delicious food, and many spots you’ll fall in love with throughout your visit!

7 Best Area to Stay in Maine

Here are 7 places I recommend staying in Maine.

1. Bangor
2. Portland
3. Arcadia National Park
4. Camden
5. Kennebunkport
6. York
7. Millinocket

You can see the places we recommend on the map above. Now, let’s see the features of these places and their best hotels.

Bangor

Bangor, a peaceful city in Maine has a population of just over 30,000 people. Bangor International Airport gets flights from all around the United States, making it a fairly accessible Maine location.

Bangor is a paradise for golfers with the Bangor Municipal Golf Course being the city’s largest. Non-members are welcome to play the 27-hole championship golf course that offers a driving range and two practice greens are readily available.

The golf club has a shop on site equipped with the latest in golfing equipment and accessories, and professionals on hand to help you with your purchase to ensure you get the right clubs and tools to play your best. 

The Maine Discovery Museum is a fantastic venue to visit and is ideal for a family outing, there are hundreds of interactive displays to explore and so much to learn. The museum is rated one of the top activities in Bangor since it covers themes from both the arts and the sciences.

If you are looking for a moment’s peace then Kenduskeag Stream Park is a lovely place to spend a day relaxing, and there are several areas along the stream suited for paddling.

To find the best places to stay in Maine, in Bangor, book your perfect holiday through booking.com. Le’s take a quick look at some recommendations;

• Courtyard Bangor: Courtyard Bangor is one of the best hotels in Bangor. It features a saltwater swimming pool as well as a 24-hour fitness facility. All rooms have air conditioning and complimentary WiFi, a work desk, and a sofa bed for extra guests. Free parking is available.
• Fireside Inn and Suites: If you want cozy and comfortable then The Fireside Inn and Suites is the hotel for you. Throughout the hotel, guests enjoy complimentary WiFi access and are welcome to use the free on-site parking during their stay. The hotel offers a bar and restaurant that are open till late.
• Country Inn at the Mall: The Country Inn at the Mall is a wonderful choice for visitors to Bangor looking for a small and attractive establishment run by locals. The majority of accommodation prices include a hot breakfast and guests can make use of the free WiFi and parking.

Bangor is an excellent destination for families, make sure you visit these places:

• The Bangor Municipal Golf Course – is perfect for all-day play.
• The Maine Discovery Museum – is a great excursion for the kids.
• Enjoy the wonderful paintings at the Zillman Art Museum.
• Indian Trail Park or Saxl Park – for a family day out.
• Take a photo of the Paul Bunyan Statue.
• Check to see if there are any concerts at Bangor Waterfront.

Portland

Located on a peninsula stretching into Casco Bay, the city of Portland boasts a fantastic fine dining scene, ancient buildings, and numerous locations to explore and enjoy the gorgeous rocky shore. If you’re visiting Maine for the first time, Portland is the greatest spot to stay.

Every neighborhood offers a varying atmosphere and characteristics, and even in the less-visited regions, you’ll discover intriguing sites and wonderful eateries. There are attractions suited for everyone.

If you are a history aficionado you will undoubtedly enjoy a visit to the Victoria Mansion for its rich culture and stunning architecture. Other attractions in the area include the Portland Museum of Art and the Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine.

And if you’re feeling adventurous, and planning a road trip then the good news is that Boston is only 2 hours away.

Your Maine holiday travels would be incomplete without a list of the best budget and luxury lodgings. Bear in mind that reserving late could mean you miss out as many of the good hotels sell out quickly, so if you want to get your hands on your favorite, we highly recommend booking in early on Booking.com.

• Old Port – The Hyatt Place Portland – Old Port is an excellent location in Portland. Every accommodation includes complimentary breakfast and there is a 24-hour mini-supermarket on site which sells various snacks and small meals. Every room has an ensuite bathroom with free amenities.
• La Quinta Inn & Suites Portland: La Quinta Inn & Suites Portland is one of Portland’s most popular hotels. There is an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness facility that are available year-round. Accommodation includes a hot buffet breakfast and the rooms, whilst they are all similar, are very pleasant.
• Pomegranate Inn: Pomegranate Inn is a lovely Portland hotel. The Pomegranate Inn captivates travelers with custom designer rooms and a boutique vibe. Each morning a continental breakfast is served. Every private bathroom has a bathtub or a shower and a hairdryer.

The best places to visit in Portland:

• Visit the Maine Historical Society and the Portland Museum of Art.
• Learn about the history by taking a guided walking tour.
• The Children’s Museum & Theatre of Maine –  a great day out for the kids
• On the Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad, take in the coastal vistas.
• Take a walk through Deering Oaks Park.
• Explore the seaside area near Fort Allen Park
• Relax on the East End’s sandy beach.
• Take a gastronomic tour of the Old Port.

Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park is the state of Maine’s pride and delight. The 47,000-acre park is one of the best-kept secrets in the United States and is filled with natural splendor from rolling hills through woods to jagged granite peaks and tumultuous sea coastlines.

Acadia National Park is ideal for energetic, adventurous visitors looking to reconnect with nature. Acadia National Park’s hiking choices seem limitless and there is more than enough to keep visitors entertained for a week or longer.

Nothing beats a hot shower after a long day of trekking across Acadia National Park. It is possible to camp in Acadia National Park, but it is preferable to stay in one of the many hotels and B&Bs that surround the park during the cold winter months. 

The Park has numerous picturesque spots and the round trail around Jordan Pond appeals to many visitors. Jordan Pond House is a charming restaurant located at the pond’s southernmost point.

Bar Harbor is not just the ideal starting point for your journey to Acadia National Park, but it’s also a lovely town to visit, so if you book your accommodations here, you’re in for a treat. It’s a really attractive town with many beautiful natural areas to visit. There are also other sites where you may learn more about the town’s history, such as the Abbe Museum and the Bar Harbor Historical Society.

Acadia National Park is just over a mile from Bar Harbor. Its beauty has drawn visitors from all over the world to view Cadillac Mountain, the highest coastal point on the Atlantic coast of the United States.

Camden – Best Place to Stay in Maine for Outdoor Enthusiasts

The park is well-known for its breathtaking views of Camden Harbour and is ideal for anybody who enjoys hiking and exploring the woods. There is nothing better than being outdoors and taking in the pure mountain air.

And there’s more! Several boat trips are available at Camden Port, so if you like sailing, I highly recommend getting on board and enjoying the ocean air.

This hamlet, located 80 miles (130 kilometers) north of Portland, is a piece of heaven for anyone who enjoys the ocean and spending time outside.

So put on your hiking boots and suitable hiking attire, and let’s get started! Because there’s more to see than only the town and its natural wonders, there’s also the Camden State Park, which is located a few minutes north of Camden.

• Bay View Hotel: This luxurious hotel is ideal for your Camden escape, with views of the harbor from the balcony of each room. Relax and unwind with a long soak in the tub, and cozy in front of the fireplace. A fitness facility and bar are available on-site.

Camden attractions and must-visit places:

• Hike at Camden State Park.
• Discover the High Street Historic District.
• Spend the entire day at Laite Memorial Beach.
• Take in the breathtaking Megunticook Falls.
• Camden-Rockport Historical Society – to learn about the town’s history.
• Visit Camden Port and take a boat cruise to see the beautiful Penobscot Bay.

Kennebunkport – for History Lovers

Kennebunkport, located 30 miles (50 kilometers) south of Portland, is a historic village ideal for a coastal Maine vacation. The city, located along the coast and the Kennebunk River, dates back to the 1600s and is known for its shipbuilding.

Many sea captains headed forth on their adventures from the riverbanks, but many also returned and constructed gorgeous houses that today operate as inns and which have a delightful antique charm.

Kennebunkport became an increasingly prominent vacation town and year-round destination around 100-years ago. It has managed to maintain this reputation to this day, with visitors flocking from all across the country to learn about its rich history and amazing beaches.

The town’s historic district is ideal for anybody interested in history and historical buildings, and there are also several great restaurants and coffee shops nearby where you can enjoy a break between visits.

Not only that, but Kennebunkport’s beaches have something to suit every demographic. Some of them, such as Mother’s Beach, even feature a playground for the kids, but there is also a handful where you can relax and take in the environment, such as Colony Beach.

• Kennebunkport Captains Collection: Spend some time relaxing in the incredibly comfy rooms, fitted with gas fireplaces, and a  lounging area. The all-white and sophisticated décor of the hotel is bespoke and appealing to tourists. After you wake up and make some coffee, why not go for a morning walk in the garden to enjoy some fresh air.
• The Nonantum Resort: The Nonantum Resort is a great choice for those of you who like to stay at a beachfront hotel The views are superb and each has a unique view from their balcony. The beachfront accommodation provides everything you need for a fantastic vacation A generously sized swimming pool, a gorgeous terrace where you can eat, drink, and relax, and little patios ideal for watching the sunset

Best places to visit in Kennebunkport

• Admire the antique architecture of the town’s historic area.
• Have a great day with the family at Mother’s Beach.
• See the First Family inhabitants at the Kennebunkport History Museum
• Take the time to relax and enjoy the scenery in Colony Beach
• Discover the region surrounding St. Ann’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church.
• Watch the ocean and the crashing surf at Blowing Cave Park

York

York, Maine’s little coastal village, is a hidden gem. York is a fantastic alternative for those looking to get off the main path.

A visit to York is like going back in time, with its craggy shoreline and breathtaking landscapes, nostalgia at its best. The Nubble Lighthouse stands prominently on Sohier Park Road and is the town’s principal attraction.

Scuba diving and fishing expeditions may be booked in Sohier Park. There is a walking trail that circles the island where the Nubble Lighthouse is located, as well as the park itself.

York, a typical seaside tourist resort, has a lot of adorable ice cream parlors. A family favorite is Dunne’s Ice Cream on Nubble Road. 

York is an excellent choice for a relaxed, laid-back seaside vacation. Travelers will have worked up an appetite after all of the beach adventures. Fortunately, there are several dining options in York. Sun & Surf Restaurant is a local favorite serving traditional seafood dishes.

• York Harbor Motel And Cottages: York Harbor Motel and Cottages is an excellent York hotel and a popular choice for laidback tourists who are budget-conscious. Many rooms include kitchenettes, and all have access to WiFi. Some premium accommodations have a view of the sea.
• Grand View Inn & Cottages: A good choice in York is the Grand View Inn & Cottages. Grand View Inn & Cottages provides travelers with affordable seaside lodging and every room has a view of the sea. All the rooms have free WiFi and tea and coffee-making facilities.
• Stage Neck Inn: The Stage Neck Inn is a fantastic York hotel and a hidden gem near the beach. Guests may unwind in the wide garden or get a drink at the bar. There are 24 hours that offer quick check-in and check-out.

York’s Top Attractions

• Capture a sunset by Nubble Lighthouse for a great memory.
• York’s Wild Kingdom Zoo – the perfect day out with the kids
• Long Sands Beach is a great place to get some vitamin D and relax.
• Explore the York Historic District.
• Take a walk in Ellis Park.
• Explore Steedman Woods.

Millinocket

Another must-see natural beauty in Maine is Baxter State Park. The lovely village of Millinocket is the nearest tourist destination to Baxter State Park. The world-famous Appalachian Trail ends in Baxter State Park and the path comes to an end atop Mount Katahdin.

The views of the mountain from Baxter State Park are spectacular and there are several hiking paths to choose from. The trails are well-marked and safe to explore throughout the year. (A reasonable degree of fitness is recommended.) There’s no need to rush because Baxter State Park offers lots of opportunities for unhurried exploration.

Millinocket has a population of little more than 4,500 people.

During the day, it’s an excellent base for visiting Baxter State Park and despite its modest size, Millinocket contains everything a traveler might want. There are several food options such as the Appalachian Trail Cafe, a tourist favorite.

For a day out, Hillcrest Golf Club is a fantastic small golf club that is open every day and welcomes non-members.

What are you waiting for? Make your reservation today at Booking.com and discover cool places to stay in Maine, including the Millinocket-Baxter State Park.

• Baxter Park Inn: The Baxter Park Inn is an excellent Millinocket motel. There are many rooms available, and securing a place at the last minute is rarely an issue. Baxter Park Inn has a friendly staff that can assist with activity planning and travel arrangements.
• Pamola Motor Lodge: Pamola Motor Lodge is perfect for travelers on a tight budget in Baxter State Park. Pamola Motor Lodge is also a good choice for last-minute guests looking for a place to sleep and shower. It provides simple accommodations at reasonable rates and the staff are kind and helpful. There is free parking available.
• Katahdin Inn & Suites: A good choice in Millinocket is the Katahdin Inn & Suites. It boasts a modest exercise facility and an indoor swimming pool, with a complimentary hot tub for guests to utilize. A continental breakfast is also included in the accommodation fee. Guests may make use of free WiFi and parking.

Discover Maine by staying at the best location suited to your budget, traveling party, and interests, there is something for everyone to discover.

Best Places to Stay in Maine in Fall

If you’re heading to Maine in the fall, here are some of the best hotels to enjoy. The locations, prices, and features of these hotels are great.

Acadia Inn

Acadia Inn is one of the more popular hotels in Acadia National Park. A complimentary breakfast buffet is set out each morning for visitors to enjoy. There is also an outdoor pool as well as a hot tub and the rooms are spacious and include an ensuite bathroom.

Chiltern Inn

The Chiltern Inn is a great hotel in Bar Harbour that is within a few minutes from Acadia National Park. For a homey and friendly atmosphere, the interior décor mixes dark wood furniture and rich, red tones. Breakfast is filling and nutritious, and it should not be skipped. Almost every room has a fireplace.

The Bar Harbor Inn and Spa

The Bar Harbor Inn and Spa is a beautiful hotel on the outskirts of Acadia National Park. Guests should take advantage of the opportunity to swim in the outdoor pool and then relax in the hot tub. Some accommodations provide balconies with views of Frenchman Bay.

Plan and reserve your trip through Bookings.com and make sure you visit these places when you are there:

• In Agamont Park – for the best seaside views.
• Acadia National Park – is a great place to go skiing or hiking.
• Have a cup of coffee at Village Green – the town’s heart.
• Visit the harbor and take in the sights of Frenchman Bay.
• Visit the Abbe Museum or the Bar Harbor Historical Society to learn more about the town’s history.