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Visiting Maine in spring sounds like a genius plan — you’re past the winter doldrums, but you’re going to skip the insane summer crowds. It’s a beautiful time to explore a new part of the state, but where do you start?

We hope this list of the best places to visit in Maine in the spring will give you some direction on where to start planning for your adventure.

Kittery

You know spring is underway in Kittery when the spotted salamander shows up. You could explore the popular Kittery Outlets, Kittery Trading Post (it’s not all L.L. Bean here), or Fort McClary.

Kittery might be the oldest town in Maine, but it has one of the newest downtown renovations in a small neighborhood known as the Foreside. Places like The Wallingford Dram and Rudders Public House helped turn around this part of the city.

Plus, you have Portsmouth, New Hampshire (and tax-free shopping) as soon as you pass over the Piscataqua River.

York

Spring is a magical time in York, when the iconic Nubble Lighthouse stands against bright blue skies and the rocky coastline is alive with crashing waves. Long Sands Beach and Short Sands Beach offer great spots for a brisk springtime walk, with the added bonus of fewer tourists.

York’s historic village is home to the Old York Historical Society, where you can step back in time and learn about one of Maine’s oldest communities.

If you have kids in tow, York’s Wild Kingdom zoo and amusement park opens on Memorial Day Weekend, making it a fun early-season stop before the summer rush.

Looking for spring lodging options in York? York Harbor Inn is open year-round.

Wells

Wells is a nature lover’s paradise in spring, with places like Wells Reserve at Laudholm offering miles of trails through salt marshes, fields, and forests. The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge also extends into Wells, making it a fantastic place for birdwatching.

Spring is also a great time to explore the Antique Mile, a stretch of Route 1 packed with antique shops and vintage finds. Whether you’re looking for coastal treasures or just a scenic drive, Wells is the perfect mix of nature and small-town charm.

Spring Lodging Options in Wells:

Ogunquit

Find your way to Marginal Way and all the options of spring in Ogunquit along a dramatic and mesmerizing shoreline that comes with one of the best sandy beaches in Southern Maine.

This is an inclusive and family-friendly community with a Spring Break vibe on Maine Street. With numerous businesses either staying open or reopening in spring, Ogunquit makes sure that every seasonal traveler has places to stay and restaurants for dining.

Spring Lodging Options in Ogunquit:

Terrace by the Sea – Opens in April
Dunes on the Waterfront – Opens May 1
Rockmere Lodge
The Grand Hotel – Opens in April
Pink Blossoms Resort – Opens in April
Bourne Bed & Breakfast – Opens May 8
Ogunquit Timeshare Rentals
Grasshopper Inn – Opens in April
Mariner Resort – Opens in May

Kennebunk

Kennebunk’s historic charm shines in spring when the town’s brick sidewalks and colonial homes look especially picturesque against blooming trees and gardens.

The Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge is a prime spot for birdwatching as migratory birds return, and the Mousam River Trail provides scenic, easy walking paths along the water.

For a taste of the town’s seafaring history, the Brick Store Museum hosts exhibits on local maritime culture and historic shipbuilding. And, of course, no visit to Kennebunk is complete without grabbing a lobster roll from a seaside shack before the summer crowds start rolling in.

Looking for spring lodging options in Kennebunk? Seaside Inn is open year-round.

Kennebunkport

Neighboring Kennebunkport offers a more coastal vibe, with its bustling Dock Square filled with shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants. The beaches begin to warm up in spring, with Goose Rocks Beach and Colony Beach offering perfect spots for a seaside stroll.

One of the highlights of spring in Kennebunkport is the Cape Porpoise Pier, where you can watch local lobstermen at work and take in stunning Atlantic Ocean views. If you’re up for an adventure, book a boat tour to see the season’s first harbor seals and seabirds making their way back to Maine’s shores.

Spring Lodging Options in Kennebunkport:

Old Orchard Beach

While summer is when Old Orchard Beach really comes alive, spring offers a quieter, more relaxed experience along its famous seven-mile stretch of sandy coastline. Take a morning walk along the beach and enjoy the salty breeze without the summer crowds.

Although the iconic Palace Playland amusement park doesn’t fully open until late spring, some beachfront businesses start welcoming visitors in April. If you’re looking for classic Maine seafood, some of the best clam shacks begin reopening in spring – perfect for grabbing a bite and watching the waves roll in.

Looking for spring lodging options in Old Orchard Beach? Sea Cliff House Motel is open year-round.

Cape Elizabeth

Cape Elizabeth is close to Portland but feels like a world away. The famously photographed Portland Head Light and Fort Williams Park draw big summer crowds, which you’ll avoid in spring. Visitors get a trifecta of state parks, too, with Two Lights, Kettle Cove, and Crescent Beach open year-round.

You can get stunning views and some of the freshest seafood at Lobster Shack Two Lights. And, hikers shouldn’t miss the chance to explore secluded options throughout the 9,000 acres of the Cape Land Trust.

Looking for spring lodging near Cape Elizabeth? Try the Percy Inn in Portland, or drive a little further to experience the Wild Duck Adult Campground in Scarborough.

Portland

It’s hard to count the accolades of Portland — earning Top 10 Place to Live from U.S. News to one of the Best Cities for Foodies from Sperling’s Best Places.

All of that is stacked with the charm of Old Port’s seaside village, captivating water views on the Eastern Promenade, and boat tours of the Casco Bay Islands. Also, niche walking tours are available throughout the historic districts, and you can walk among the crowds at the Portland Observatory.

Spring Lodging Options in Portland:

Falmouth

Go chasing waterfalls at Walton Park in Falmouth and the popular (yet less congested in spring) Presumpscot Falls Park as melting snow turns the park into its own show.

Skip the summer bugs at the salt marsh and explore the Gilsland Farm Audubon Center, which has a nature farm, store, and children’s discovery room.

Stop at the Town Landing to watch the boaters or enjoy a Dockside Grill view. In addition, you can drive to Mackworth Island, which features 100 acres of wooded views and a stunning skyline of Portland, Maine.

Freeport

Freeport is the home of everything L.L. Bean, and the campus is home to the flagship store (open 24 hours). You can plan an adventure with the best outdoor experts in the state through L.L. Bean Outdoor Discovery Programs.

The town is also home to the Freeport Village Station outlets. When it comes to events, Spring Studio Saturday showcases local artists and crafters, while outdoor lovers shouldn’t miss Feathers Over Freeport with guided bird-watching and nature events.

Looking for spring camping options? Wolfe’s Neck Oceanfront Camping opens May 1!

Boothbay Harbor

This coastal Camelot is a four-season destination, and spring is one of the best seasons to visit Museum in the Streets. You can pair it with a trip on the Boothbay Harbor Sculpture Trail. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens opens in early May, showcasing 300 acres of coastal charm.

And the great outdoors spans 30 miles of protected Boothbay Region Land Trust trails, including Damariscove Island Preserve.

Spring Lodging Options in Boothbay Harbor:

Linekin Bay Resort – Opens mid-May
Topside Inn – Opens late April
Smuggler’s Cove Inn – Opens mid-May
Boothbay Harbor Summer Cottages – Opens mid-May
Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Resort – Opens mid-May
Harbour Towne Inn – Opens in April
Newagen Seaside Inn – Opens late May
Tugboat Inn – Opens in May
Fisherman’s Wharf Inn – Opens late May

Rockland

Rockland is known for its vibrant arts scene and working waterfront, both of which are fantastic to explore in spring. The Farnsworth Art Museum is home to an impressive collection of Maine-inspired works, including pieces from Andrew Wyeth.

A walk along the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse Trail is a must, offering stunning views of Penobscot Bay as the water starts to glisten under warmer skies. Don’t miss a stop at one of the town’s famous seafood spots – Rockland is the “Lobster Capital of the World,” after all.

Looking for spring lodging options in Rockland? Berry Manor Inn is open year-round.

Camden

Camden’s famous motto, “Where the mountains meet the sea,” is never more evident than in spring, when the town shakes off winter and welcomes visitors with open arms.

Camden Hills State Park is a must-visit, with Mount Battie offering breathtaking views of the town and Penobscot Bay. If you’re visiting in late spring, the Camden Farmers’ Market is back in full swing, featuring fresh local produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

Harbor cruises also start making their seasonal return, offering a chance to see lighthouses, rocky islands, and perhaps even a few seals sunning themselves on the shore.

Spring Lodging Options in Camden:

Belfast & Searsport

Belfast and neighboring Searsport offer a quintessential slice of Maine’s midcoast, brimming with maritime history and scenic waterfront views.

Spring is the perfect time to stroll the Belfast Harbor Walk, where you can watch boats return to the harbor and catch glimpses of local wildlife. Belfast City Park is a great spot for a picnic with sweeping views of Penobscot Bay.

Searsport, known for its shipbuilding past, is home to the Penobscot Marine Museum (opens late May), where you can explore historic sea captains’ homes and exhibits showcasing Maine’s deep ties to the ocean. For a dose of fresh air, Moose Point State Park reopens on Memorial Day Weekend, offering coastal hiking trails and tide pool explorations.

Looking for spring lodging options in Belfast & Searsport? Captain Nickels Inn is open year-round.

Augusta

The state capital offers educational experiences and places to explore during spring. The legislature is in session, and tours of the Maine State House are available.

The Maine State Museum is another showstopper in this city of leaders, and the Fort Western Living History Museum opens in late May. The free Viles Arboretum thrives each season, and the Kennebec Land Trust offers plenty of trails and preserves to explore.

Looking for spring lodging options in Augusta? Blueberry Fields Bed & Breakfast opens in April.

Bethel

Spring in Bethel means watching the last of the snow melt away from the peaks of the Mahoosuc Mountains while wildflowers start to bloom along hiking trails. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore Grafton Notch State Park, where the icy remnants of Screw Auger Falls and Mother Walker Falls create dramatic spring scenery.

The Androscoggin River offers early-season paddling, and if you’re lucky, you might spot moose emerging from their winter hideaways. Bethel’s charming downtown is also worth a visit, with historic inns, cozy cafés, and local artisan shops perfect for a relaxed afternoon.

Looking for spring lodging options in Bethel? The Maine Houses is open year-round.

Casco

Outdoor lovers and anglers will be lured to Casco for the spring amenities of Sebago Lake State Park. Since “spring” can mean spring weather or winter weather, you have the option to do both at Sebago. You’ll also avoid the snarled traffic on Route 302 with a spring visit.

No question goes unanswered with hiking, fishing, camping, snowshoeing, and skiing readily available. Check out the Songo Lock and Veteran’s Fishing Pier.

Looking for spring lodging options in Casco? Point Sebago Resort opens May 1!

Bangor

Going inland doesn’t mean water views stop. Bangor is along the beautiful Penobscot River, offering plenty of parks, riverside trails, and dining with water views. Casino activities and amenities are found at the Hollywood Casino Bangor, and you could hit the natural jackpot at one of the Bangor Land Trust Preserves.

The Maine Discovery Museum includes hands-on exhibits for the whole family, while the Zillman Art Museum at the University of Maine displays rotating exhibits throughout the year.

Greenville

Greenville is the gateway to Moosehead Lake, Maine’s largest lake, and spring is one of the best times to visit before the summer crowds arrive. As the ice recedes, the lake offers peaceful canoeing and kayaking opportunities, and guided moose-watching tours begin running in May.

For a unique adventure, take a drive up Lily Bay State Park, where the forests come alive with spring wildlife, or hike Big Moose Mountain for a stunning panoramic view of the lake.

Downtown Greenville is small but packed with charm, offering locally owned shops, classic Maine diners, and a laid-back atmosphere.

Spring Lodging Options in Greenville:

Wilson Pond Cabins
Moosehead Hills Cabins
Wilsons on Moosehead Lake
Tomhegan Cabins – Open all year, except April

Millinocket

Experience the magic of Millinocket, nicknamed the “Magic City” for how fast it grew in this remote region. The big draw is the Katahdin Wood and Waters National Monument, where nightlife takes a whole new meaning with some of the darkest skies this side of the Mississippi River.

Explore a nearby ice cave that stays frozen into summer, and SEOC wildlife tours start in May, with many moose on the agenda.

Spring Lodging Options in Millinocket:

Big Moose Inn – Opens in May
Loon Lodge – Opens May 1
New England Outdoor Center

Bar Harbor

As Acadia National Park crowds keep growing (4 million in 2022), it’s worth considering a spring visit, including nearby Bar Harbor. You won’t even miss the delicate carriage roads that are closed when it’s too muddy because you’ll still see wildflowers spring to life and animals slip from their winter slumber.

The scenic loop around the Schoodic Peninsula is open year-round, and the park loop on Mt. Desert Island opens in mid-April. Don’t forget to pick up a Cool as a Moose shirt or Bark Harbor treats for your favorite pup.

Spring Lodging Options in Bar Harbor:

Presque Isle

Presque Isle is where the largest 3D model of the solar system begins, and the coincidence that it was one of the cities in the path of totality for the 2024 solar eclipse isn’t lost on anyone. Spring is also maple season, and The Maple Moose is one of the top vendors in the state.

You have all of Aroostook County to explore, with places like Aroostook State Park and its spring ski trails and Aroostook Valley Country Club, which is an international golf course that’s half in the United States and half in Canada.

A Note About Mud Season

There are just three letters in your way of enjoying spring: M-U-D. Ask any Mainer, and they’ll tell you the season after winter is not spring: It’s mud season. Even the Maine Bureau of Parks & Lands has mud season safety advice.

In fact, spring in Maine might not be the spring you think of on the calendar. Even the National Weather Service has explained that springtime in Maine can start anywhere from mid-March to late May. For what it’s worth, Maine considers summer to be July 4 through Labor Day.

Fortunately, your itinerary is easily adjusted to find the best spring stops in Vacationland, and that includes Seaweed Week in Orono for the culinarily curious and the timeless tradition of Maine Maple Sunday Weekend across the state.

Discover More About the Best Towns to Visit in Maine in Spring

Maine’s shoulder season weather has the beauty of winter and the excitement of summer without the crowds. You’ll have more time to explore and better availability for tickets and tours. Maine spring skiing is some of the best in the country, too, being the longest possible season.

Exploring the best towns to visit in Maine in spring will make you want to come back for every season to see the transitions of Vacationland. You’ll even find more than a handful of things to do during spring break.