Maine is a state full of natural beauty, from its rocky coastline to its lush forests. And tucked away in this stunning landscape are some of the most charming small towns you’ll ever find. Whether you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or you want to explore Maine’s history and culture, these small towns are sure to please. In this blog post, we will explore 12 of the most charming small towns in Maine. From picturesque villages to quaint seaside towns, there’s something for everyone in this list.
Portland
Portland, Maine is the largest city in the state with a population of over 66,000. The Old Port district is a popular tourist destination with its cobblestone streets, 19th-century brick buildings, and waterfront views. Other notable attractions include the Portland Museum of Art, the Victoria Mansion, and the Longfellow House.
Kennebunkport
Kennebunkport is a small town on the Maine coast with a population of just over 3,000 people. The town is best known for its quaint shops and restaurants, as well as its beautiful beaches. Kennebunkport is also home to several bed and breakfasts, making it the perfect place to stay for a romantic getaway.
Ogunquit
Ogunquit is a small town located in southern Maine, about an hour's drive from Portland. The town is situated on the coast and is known for its beautiful beaches, including Ogunquit Beach, which was named one of the top 10 beaches in the United States by National Geographic.
In addition to its natural beauty, Ogunquit is also home to several art galleries, restaurants, and shops. The Ogunquit Playhouse, which stages Broadway-quality productions, is another popular tourist destination. Visitors can also take a scenic trolley ride through town or explore the local hiking trails.
Bar Harbor
Bar Harbor is a beautiful small town located on the coast of Maine. It is a popular tourist destination in the summer months, when people come to enjoy the town's many outdoor activities and attractions. Bar Harbor is home to Acadia National Park, which offers hiking, biking, and boat tours. The town also has several art galleries, museums, and historic sites.
Camden
Camden is a small town located in the Mid-Coast region of Maine. The town is situated on Penobscot Bay, and is known for its picturesque harbor and scenic views. Camden is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a number of historical landmarks. The town is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Boothbay Harbor
Boothbay Harbor is a small town located on the coast of Maine. The town is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses. There is also a harbor where you can take in the sights and sounds of the ocean. Boothbay Harbor is a great place to visit if you are looking for a charming small town experience.
Bethel
Bethel is a small town in Maine that is full of charm. The town is home to many historical buildings, including the Bethel Inn, which was built in 1796. The inn is now a popular hotel and restaurant. Other historical buildings in Bethel include the Gilead Congregational Church, which was built in 1803, and the Bethel Historical Society Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the town's history.
Bethel is also home to some beautiful natural scenery. The town is situated in the White Mountains, and there are several hiking trails in the area. The Androscoggin River runs through Bethel, and there are several waterfalls in the area. Bethel is a popular destination for both winter and summer activities. In the winter, people come to ski at Sunday River Ski Resort, which is just a short drive from Bethel. In the summer, people come to enjoy the hiking, fishing, and camping that the area has to offer.
Bridgton
Bridgton is a small town in Cumberland County, Maine. The population was 2,361 at the 2010 census. Bridgton is home to Bridgton Academy, a prestigious private high school, and the Maine Winter Sports Center.
Bridgton is a popular destination for tourists who want to experience small town life in Maine. The town has several historic buildings, including the Bridgton Community Center and the Bridgton Historical Society Museum. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Bridgton, such as hiking, biking, and canoeing.
Lewiston
Lewiston is the second largest city in Maine and the most populous city in Androscoggin County. The Lewiston-Auburn metropolitan area, which consists of Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties, has a population of approximately 107,000 people. Located in south-central Maine, Lewiston is situated on the Androscoggin River.
In 1770, present-day Lewiston was settled as part of Bakerstown (which later became Auburn). The town was officially incorporated as “Lewistown” in 1795. It would be renamed “Lewiston” in 1864 after having been named after Colonel Alexander Lewiston.
Today, Lewiston is a thriving small city with a diverse population. The city's economy is anchored by healthcare, manufacturing and retail trade. Lewiston is also home to Bates College, a highly regarded private liberal arts college.
Auburn
Auburn is a charming small town located in the heart of Maine. With a population of just over 10,000 people, Auburn is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The town is home to a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as a number of historic sites and buildings. Auburn is also home to Bates College, making it a great place for students and faculty to live.
Damariscotta
Nestled on the Damariscotta River, Damariscotta is a quintessential small town in Maine. With a population of just over 2,000 people, Damariscotta is home to charming boutiques, antique shops, and art galleries. The town's historic downtown is lined with brick buildings and tree-lined streets, making it the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll.
In addition to its quaint downtown area, Damariscotta is also home to several parks and nature trails. The Pemaquid Point Lighthouse is a popular spot for picnics and hiking, and the Damariscotta Riverwalk offers scenic views of the river.
Wiscasset
There's no shortage of charming small towns in Maine, but Wiscasset tops our list. This picturesque town is located on the coast and is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the state. The views from the waterfront are simply stunning and there's always something going on, whether it's a farmers market or a concert in the park. Main Street is lined with quaint shops and galleries, and you can't miss the iconic red schoolhouse. If you're looking for a breathtaking small town to explore, look no further than Wiscasset!