While you’re here, dine at Billy’s Chowder House — one of the oldest chowder houses in Maine. If you’re craving some of the arcade action of places like Old Orchard Beach, Wells has the Wonder Mountain Fun Park.
Monhegan Island might be the biggest tourist destination you’ve never heard of (if you aren’t familiar with Maine). You can take a ferry from Point Clyde — a great two-for-one trip — and arrive at an island designed for walking. Pets are welcome on the ferry and the island, which is only 2 miles long by 1 mile wide.
While technically a peninsula of Freeport, most tourists don’t make it past L.L. Bean to explore this coastline. Wolfe’s Neck State Park holds its own with forested trails, salt marsh walks, and rocky coastline adventures. This is a must-see location for fall foliage.
On the opposite end of Mount Desert Island from Bar Harbor sits the waterfront town of Tremont and a ferry that takes you to Swans Island. The Bass Harbor Head Light Station offers one of the most spectacular sunset views statewide.
Cutler Coast Public Land is one of Maine’s best-kept secrets, with more than 12,000 acres, 4.5 miles of headlands, and 10 miles of trails. Along the way, you can pick wild blueberries, a signature Maine food.