Discover 14 Underrated Maine Towns That Visitors Often Miss – Explore the Best Kept Secrets of Vacationland!
Maine is famous for its coastal towns, scenic lighthouses, and Acadia National Park, but beyond the well-trodden tourist spots, there are countless hidden gems waiting to be explored. Discover 14 Underrated Maine Towns that visitors often miss which offer visitors a taste of authentic Maine charm without the crowds, so explore the best kept secrets of Vacationland!.
1. Allagash
Nestled at the mouth of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, this remote town offers world-class canoeing, fishing, and wildlife watching. Drive along the St. John Valley/Fish River Scenic Byway for stunning fall foliage.
Why Visit: Nestled at the mouth of the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, this town offers unparalleled access to Maine’s remote backcountry.
Must-See: Allagash River, St. John Valley/Fish River Scenic Byway, Allagash Brewing Company.
Contact: North Maine Woods Office – (207) 435-6213
2. Castine
Overlooking Penobscot Bay, Castine is rich in colonial history. Home to the Maine Maritime Academy, this peaceful town boasts charming inns, waterfront dining, and a picturesque sandy beach.
Why Visit: A historic town predating Plymouth Colony, rich in maritime history.
Must-See: Fort George, Dyce Head Lighthouse, Maine Maritime Academy.
Contact: Castine Historical Society – (207) 326-4118
3. Harpswell
With its rugged coastline, charming villages, and famous Giant’s Stairs trail, Harpswell is a dream destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy fresh lobster rolls and endless ocean views.
Why Visit: A mix of peninsulas, islands, and scenic coastal views.
Must-See: Giant’s Stairs Trail, Harpswell Heritage Land Trust, Dolphin Marina & Restaurant.
Contact: Harpswell Town Office – (207) 833-5771
4. Houlton
Located at the end of I-95, Houlton offers easy access to Canada and the International Dark Sky Park at Katahdin Woods & Waters National Monument. Market Square’s walkable downtown adds to its appeal.
Why Visit: A gateway to the northern Maine wilderness with easy access to Canada.
Must-See: Market Square, Meduxnekeag River Trails, 2024 Solar Eclipse Viewing Area. Contact: Greater Houlton Chamber of Commerce – (207) 532-4216
5. Jonesport
A true working waterfront town, Jonesport offers an authentic lobstering experience. Cross the bridge to Beals Island and explore the Great Wass Island Preserve’s scenic hiking trails.
Why Visit: A quiet fishing village with an authentic maritime culture.
Must-See: Mistake Island & Moose Peak Lighthouse, Great Wass Island Preserve. Contact: Jonesport Town Office – (207) 497-5926
6. Millinocket
As the gateway to Mount Katahdin and the Appalachian Trail, Millinocket is an outdoor lover’s paradise. The Golden Road offers scenic drives, waterfalls, and access to Gulf Hagas, Maine’s Grand Canyon.
Why Visit: The adventure hub for exploring Baxter State Park and Mount Katahdin. Must-See: Golden Road Scenic Drive, Gulf Hagas Waterfalls, Millinocket Marathon. Contact: Millinocket Town Office – (207) 723-7000
7. New Harbor
This picturesque village in Bristol is home to the historic Pemaquid Point Lighthouse. Take a boat tour to Monhegan Island, spot puffins, and explore breathtaking coastal trails.
Why Visit: A charming village with some of Maine’s best coastal scenery.
Must-See: Pemaquid Point Lighthouse, Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site, Puffin Watch Cruises.
Contact: Bristol Town Office – (207) 563-5270
8. Newry
Home to Sunday River Resort, Newry offers year-round adventure. From skiing and snowboarding to waterfall hikes and vibrant fall foliage, there’s no shortage of activities.
Why Visit: Home to Sunday River Resort, one of Maine’s top year-round destinations. Must-See: Sunday River Bridge, Grafton Notch State Park, Frenchman’s Hole. Contact: Sunday River Resort – (800) 543-2754
9. Pembroke
Visit Reversing Falls, where powerful tides create a mesmerizing natural phenomenon. Explore Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge for moose, bald eagles, and untouched wilderness.
Why Visit: A hidden gem with rare natural phenomena like reversing waterfalls. Must-See: Reversing Falls Park, Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge.
Contact: Pembroke Town Office – (207) 726-2375
10. Phippsburg
A coastal gem south of Bath, Phippsburg offers sandy beaches, historic forts, and scenic hikes. Popham Beach State Park is a must-visit for ocean lovers.
Why Visit: Home to Maine’s best beaches, hiking trails, and historic sites.
Must-See: Popham Beach State Park, Fort Popham, Seguin Island Lighthouse. Contact: Phippsburg Town Office – (207) 389-2653
11. Raymond
Escape the crowds at Sebago Lake and enjoy the tranquility of Panther Pond and Frye Island. Hike the Raymond Community Forest for panoramic mountain views.
Why Visit: A peaceful lake town offering an alternative to busy Sebago Lake.
Must-See: Frye Island Ferry, Panther Pond, Raymond Community Forest.
Contact: Raymond Town Office – (207) 655-4742
12. Rockwood
Located on the eastern shore of Moosehead Lake, Rockwood offers easy access to Mount Kineo, known for its striking cliffs and panoramic views.
Why Visit: A gateway to Mount Kineo and the Moosehead Lake region.
Must-See: Mount Kineo State Park, Rockwood Bar & Grill, Moose River Golf Course. Contact: Rockwood Town Office – (207) 534-4536
13. Stonington
Maine’s most productive lobster port, Stonington offers stunning coastal scenery, fresh seafood, and access to Isle au Haut via boat.
Why Visit: A picturesque fishing village with stunning ocean views.
Must-See: Isle au Haut, Opera House Arts, Stonington Lobster Co-Op.
Contact: Stonington Town Office – (207) 367-2351
14. Winter Harbor
Situated on the Schoodic Peninsula, Winter Harbor is the quieter side of Acadia National Park. Enjoy breathtaking ocean views, rugged cliffs, and a laid-back coastal vibe.
Why Visit: A quieter alternative to Bar Harbor with access to Acadia’s Schoodic Peninsula.
Must-See: Schoodic Point, Grindstone Neck Golf Course, Winter Harbor Lobster Festival.
Contact: Winter Harbor Town Office – (207) 963-2235
Explore Maine’s Hidden Treasures
If you're looking to experience the beauty of Maine away from the usual tourist spots, these underrated towns provide the perfect getaway. Whether you're interested in history, outdoor adventure, or simply relaxing by the water, there's something for everyone.
For more information on these hidden gems, contact the Maine Office of Tourism or visit individual town websites. Ready to explore?
What to Do in Moosehead Lake
Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.
ATV/Snowmobile:: Explore thousands of miles of pristine wilderness.
Boating/Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore the lake's serene waters.
Camping/Swimming: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.
Fishing/Hunting: Discover prime fishing spots.
Hiking/Biking: Explore the wilderness.
Skiing/Sledding/Snowboarding/Snowshoeing: Miles of cross-country ski trails for those seeking a quieter adventure. Ski and snowboard rentals, plus lessons for beginners.
Local Attractions/Sightseeing: Learn about must-see sights in the region.
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit
Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout our Rockwood Moose River cabin!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
Plan your trip and uncover the best-kept secrets of Vacationland today!