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Maine Vacations

As one of America’s northernmost states, Maine is punctuated by dramatic coastlines, sweeping bays and numerous islands that speckle the surrounding sea. The state is home to some of the East Coasts’ most pristine cities and wild national parks, making it a great visit for cultural enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. The first Euro-American settlers to arrive to Maine were faced with so much hardship that they were forced to disperse to more accommodating climates. After facing harsh winters and attacks from Native Americans, French and British alike, Maine gained independence and joined the Union in 1820. State settlers enjoyed a temporary industry boom in timber, fishing, farming, shipbuilding and quarrying in the late nineteenth century before suffering from a commercial bust and population stagnation. Today Maine’s pristine land makes it a retreat for East Coast adventurers seeking relaxation on the scenic shore. The state features 32,000 miles of rivers, 6,000 lakes, 5,000 miles of coastland and nearly 17 million acres of forested land, making it a memorable retreat.

Portland, Maine is the state’s largest city and its craft culture epicenter. This artistic community features a restored nineteenth century historic downtown that hosts a number of local restaurants, art galleries and specialty shops. The city’s historic center is home to the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine, which offers a number of hands-on exhibits for families. Those who would like to take their vacation to new heights can hitch a ride on one of the many hot air balloons that launch from the city’s outskirts. Maritime enthusiasts can stroll along the city’s port on Casco Bay, while visitors who want to escape the mainland can take a ferry to the nearby Calendar Islands.

Acadia National Park, the only national park in New England, is a must-see destination for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The park encompasses several islands located off of the coast of Maine, hosting a mixture of coniferous and deciduous forest. Acadia Park features stunning Cadillac Mountain, the highest point on the Atlantic Coast, and is home to a diversity of native wildlife. This historic park is home to more than 120 miles of historic trails, many which were built in the late nineteenth century. Hikers can still enjoy the stone craftsmanship of stone masons and view historic artifacts scattered throughout the islands.

While Maine’s capital city, Augusta, feels more like a small town than a state capital, it offers a variety of historic attractions to satisfy the cultural traveler. Visitors can view the granite Maine State Capital Building or learn more about the state’s history at the Maine State Museum. History enthusiasts can stroll through Old Fort Western, which hosts some of the nation’s oldest surviving military buildings. Visitors with children in town can stop by Children’s Discovery Museum of take a walk through the 224-acre Pine Tree State Arboretum.

Visitors who are traveling to Maine to ‘get away from it all’ can do so on Mohegan Island. This small island is a summertime tourist retreat, offering guests a taste of the simple village life. The island offers a plethora of spectacular views, 17 miles of trails, a historic lighthouse and a mysterious shipwreck off its southern coast. Nearby Boothbay Harbor offers spectacular scenery without the isolation. The historic city center features stunning Victorian houses that tower over narrow streets, endless shopping options and fine seafood dining. Those who would like to catch a beautiful glimpse of the harbor can head to the top of McKown Hill while those who want to view Maine’s fishing industry up close can stroll along the town’s industrial East Side.

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