11 Hot Spots That Make Maine the Place to Be This Summer

photo: Danica Harris

With a cursory search you may think that all of Maine is reserved for a more mature crowd (let’s just say there’s lots of wicker and quilts). But fear not—there are plenty of fresh, young—and young at heart—Mainers who are reinvigorating the Northeast with beautiful spaces, good eats and hot spots to shop. After all, Maine country is flat-out gorgeous and well worth a visit at any age.

Reporter: Julie Pointer Adams

Photo:Briana Lyons

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Stay: Hidden Pond Resort

Kennebunkport, Maine

Tucked into posh, preppy and oh-so-picturesque Kennebunkport, Hidden Pond Resort is the kind of secluded getaway in the woods we really go for. Complete with treetop spa, fancy farm-to-table eats, veggie garden and easygoing bar, you’ll be ready to book your bungalow for weeks.

Photo:mimigabes

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Coffee: Tandem Coffee + Bakery

Portland, Maine

Tandem is the place to go for your Los Angeles-level of espresso enthusiasm with a bit more small-town warmth. Beyond just getting your caffeine hit, the baked goods here are bonkers (in the best possible way).

Photo:More & Co.

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Shop: More & Co.

Portland, Maine

More & Co. is a ridiculously charming boutique with sweet ceramics, divine soaps and a panoply of curated objects. Perfect for grabbing a variety of mementos for home.

Photo:Aileen Chua

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Eat: Eventide Oyster Co.

Portland, Maine

Eventide is your go-to for classic New England fare—think oysters, lobster rolls and more crudo (you simply can’t have too much while in Maine). With a laidback friendly feeling and picnic-table style seating, you’ll definitely want to bring the whole fam here.

Photo:indigo0ocean

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See & Visit: Acadia National Park

Though most magical in autumn when the trees are aflame with color, Acadia National Park is a must-see destination at any time of year. Located along coastal Maine and primarily on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is the perfect gateway town for getting there.

Photo:Linda Campos

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Eat: Central Provisions

Portland, Maine

Packing a punch with tons of fresh seafood and shellfish fare, Central Provisions’ chef Christopher Gould will surprise you with his spot-on crudo pairings. Sidle up to the chef’s counter for watching Gould and his crew of cooks work their magic.

Photo:Judith

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Shop: Judith

Portland, Maine

Pop into light and airy Judith for a refined selection of sophisticated women’s wear, accessories and special treasures. Take it from us—you might want to pack an extra duffle.

Photo:Allagash Brewing Company

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Eat: Tipo

Portland, Maine

Featuring Italian-inspired small-plates and wood-fired pizza, Tipo is the neighborhood joint we all wish was just around the corner. Cozy up in this quirky but sophisticated eatery (the décor includes a mix of subway tiles and old license plates) for some exquisite Italian flavors.

Photo:Marston House Vinalhaven

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Shop: Marston House Vinalhaven

Vinalhaven, Maine

Marston House is the ultimate in chic vintage and perfectly curated antiques. Find French market totes, linens and delightful curio. It’s located on Vinalhaven Island, requiring a charming little ferry ride to kick back and enjoy the view.

See & Visit: Portland Museum of Art

Portland, Maine

Filled with the likes of Winslow Homer, Andrew Wyeth and Edward Hopper, the Portland Museum of Art is a dreamy window into Maine seen through the eyes of artists. Don’t miss the bookshop for all the take-home goods.

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Photo:Knickerbocker Group

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See & Visit: Knickerbocker Lakes

Boothbay, Maine

Knickerbocker Lakes are a vision out of all your summer camp dreams. Come swim with the locals and sunbathe on the floating docks surrounded by the pines.