We had our 1st anniversary celebration in the beautiful state of Maine and LOVED it! Seriously, the midcoast Maine area was picturesque and relaxing. Our actual wedding date was in June, but we wanted a chance to see some New England fall colors we’ve always wanted to experience. It did not disappoint. Because I think everyone deserves a visit here, I’ve put together my Week in Maine Travel Guide for you to enjoy! Planning a trip to this amazing state soon? Let me know in the comments below.

Midcoast Maine

We spent most of our time in Midcoast Maine and chose Rockland, ME as our home base. I used this Maine Guidebook and Coastal Main Guide to help with planning this trip. Midcoast Maine boasts easy access to a lot of the main attractions, but still nestled and tucked away in a quieter area. We visited in October is definitely off-season and colder temps. On top of that, we visited on Columbus Day, so a lot was closed the first day we arrived. It was seriously hard just finding a place for dinner. But we really enjoyed the slower pace and way less crowds!

Rockland

We stayed 5 nights at 250 Main Hotel which was so relaxing and amazing! It is a boutique, newly renovated (I believe) very cozy hotel. I seriously can’t say enough good things about this place. Not only were the rooms well-appointed and comfortable. The design of the place is modern, chic with original artworks throughout, books everywhere, and games in the lobby. Some of our favorite moments were coming back in for a late afternoon drink (hot tea or sometimes wine- it was complimentary!) and playing a game of chess or Scrabble. They also served a light breakfast, including Maine blueberries. We loved that! Also make sure you spend some time on the rooftop with the GORGEOUS view of the Rockland Harbor. Here are some of our favorite Rockland spots!

• Ada’s Kitchen for dinner! They are known for their pasta and pizza with an elevated feel. Try the crostini and the peach caprese salad.
• Atlantic Baking Co. This spot was just a short walk from the hotel, and it quickly became our go-to. We loved their croissants. And our favorite pumpkin, chocolate chip whoopie pie was here!
• Walk around downtown Rockland and shop! There are so many fun, little stores that you are sure to find really unique gifts and souvenirs in.

Camden

When you think of quintessential New England town, you’re probably picturing Camden. It has the best mix of coastal Maine vibes without the crowds of the more touristy Bar Harbor area (more on that later). We loved Camden, and it was our go-to spot since Rockland tended to be a little quieter this time of year. No shortage of beautiful views and good food here. Try some of our faves!

• Blaze. Our first night was amazing eating here!!
• Trapt Escape Room. We did a room themed after Stranger Things, and it was definitely realistic (and a little creepy!) We broke out!
• Camden Deli. Try Maine’s famous whoopie pies here.
• Peter Ott’s on the Water. Fine dining and where I had my first whole Maine lobster!
• Again, lots of cute, unique shops and sites here. Be sure to make a stop to walk along the park at Camden Harbor. Or drive up to Mount Battie for an incredible view!

Bar Harbor / Acadia National Park

We are sad we didn’t have more time in this area! Initially, we chose to not stay here because it is known to be more touristy and crowded. But we had so much fun here, we’ve decided we’d like to go back and stay here for the full experience. This time, though, it was just a quick day trip for us. Here are some things to not miss!

• Fort Knox and the Penobscot Narrows Observatory. This was on our road trip up to Acadia and was a really great stop. Fun fact, this observation tower is the tallest bridge observatory open to the public in the world!
• Jordan Pond. Truly the calmest, clearest water I’ve ever seen. So tranquil!
• Cadillac Mountain. Don’t be like me and not realize you have to make reservations ahead of time to be able to drive up this mountain. Not getting up here is a big regret of ours.
• Sand Beach
• Thunder Hole
• West Street Cafe. Just classic Maine faire, including lobster rolls and blueberry pie which Hunter got at pretty much every restaurant we went.

Lighthouses

Lighthouse in Maine are about as frequent is Chick-fil-A’s are in the south. In fact, there are 65 lighthouses in all of Maine. Would highly recommend making lighthouse routes your way to see a lot of the state. We tried to visit as many as we could. Here is out list of the ones we were able to make it to!

• Owl’s Head Lighthouse
• Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
• Marshall Point Lighthouse. P.S. While you are on the way to Marshall Point, make a quick stop at Ancho Honey for the tuna melt! 😍
• Pemaquid Point Lighthouse. On your way home, stop by Round Top ice cream for the BEST homemade ice cream. They are seasonal though, so make sure they’re open before you go!
• Portland Head Light

Portland

Portland is the “big city” of Maine with a lot of the younger and business population. It’s very crowded and probably was the least favorite of all our Maine travels. We flew in and out of the Portland airport, so that was our only reason for visiting. But we did really enjoy dinner at a really unique, small plates place called Central Provisions. Do not miss this! And be sure to order the AMAZING poached pear for dessert.

Loved this Week in Maine Travel Guide? You’ll also enjoy my Week in Rosemary Beach Travel Guide.