When the snow starts to melt and the temperatures start to rise everyone in New England lets out a large sigh of relief. Cabin fever is a real thing and with the harsh winters, it can be hard longing for sunny warm days. It can affect everyone from Kittery to Caribou and from Fryeburg to Eastport. Admittedly some experience winter worse than others but that is all about to be behind us once spring comes. So to break off those winter blues trade in your Sunday River skis for some sunglasses and here are some of the best things to do in Maine in spring. Let's get outside and enjoy the great outdoors once again.
Flower Blooms In Maine
When it comes to Maine spring activities one of my favorite things to do is to witness the snow melt and new growth take place. Sometimes if I am really itching to see greenery I will find myself visiting a greenhouse or a flower shop while it is still too cold outside. But when you visit Maine in the spring you get the pleasure of witnessing new buds, blooming flowers, and the return of many singing birds at this time of year.
1. Tulips
Location: All over the state
Popularity: Very popular
Price: Free
When looking for free things to do in Maine in spring looking for flowers is one of the best things to do. The return of Tulips is among those iconic flowers to see because its cheery brightly colored nature fills us with joy. You can find them all over the place from neighborhoods to public spaces that spend the time to beautify their town. There will be plenty of gardens and arboretums to explore specifically walking among the flowers, but one of the things we like to do is just look for them on a scenic drive while enjoying small towns in Maine.
2. Pineland Farms, Gloucester
Location: Gloucester, Maine
Popularity: Popular
Price: Free
Pineland Farms is a go-to destination in the winter for sledding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, and they even have igloos, but have you been in the spring? All around the campus, some flowers start to sprout and show off their beauty as the weather starts to warm up until eventually the whole place is washed in spring colors. You can find up to 8,000 tulips (Which are my favorite) and 2,000 daffodils just by walking around the gardens and around the campus. This is also a great place to take a picnic and spend some time relaxing or go on a hike on the property. Pineland Farms might be one of the prettiest farms in the state and that statement is even more true when the flowers line their white picket fences. If you are looking for a day trip near Freeport, Lewiston, or Gray this is a great option.
Botanical Gardens In Maine
I have learned that one of my favorite places to go in the spring are the botanical gardens. There is just something magical about a place filled with swirling floral gardens and the wide variety of life you find in the various plants is astounding. These two places are quite possibly the best of fun things to do in Maine in Spring.
3. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay Harbor
Location: Boothbay Harbor, Maine
Popularity: Very popular
Price: $10-$24
Out of any botanical garden I have ever gone to the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens remains my favorite. This place is just an enchanted wonderland of flora and fauna. You can easily spend the whole day exploring the various gardens that come in the most brilliant colors. Bring the kids along to play in the treehouse and the kid's area, as well as explore the woods. The gardens have only gotten better because they now house five giant forest trolls. You can adventure into the forest, through the gardens, and around the coastline, and find all of the creatures that fit perfectly within their natural surroundings. You can make a whole game out of finding them and get enraptured in the story of these fanatical trolls. Being located in Boothbay Harbor also makes this a perfect springtime getaway destination. Head on down to the coastal downtown and grab some old-fashioned candy at Orne’s, shop for local goods, and then head over to Ocean Point to climb on the rocks of Maine’s iconic rocky shoreline. This is also a great spot to watch the sunset so allow the setting sunshine to cap the end of a perfect day spent in Boothbay Harbor.
4. Viles Arboretum, Augusta
Location: Augusta, Maine
Popularity: Not very popular
Price: Free
I have been to the Viles Arboretum many times and every time I leave very satisfied that I have been fully immersed in nature. When you are just itching to get outside as soon as the sun comes out this is always a good go-to place. There are miles and miles of hiking trails taking you through rolling hills, thick forests, a boardwalk over a pond, and so much more. The variety is what always brings me back time and time again. There are all sorts of hidden treasures all throughout the property from sculptures to a fairy house village. This is a good location to look for animals and I have seen many deer, owls, and other birds fluttering around from limb to limb. If you want to escape into the great outdoors then this is the place for you this spring. You can easily pair this with one of the best pizza places in Augusta, Cushnoc Brewery located downtown alongside the Kennebec River.
Parks To Visit In Maine This Spring
Nothing beats a good old road trip or gathering the family and friends for a day trip. With lots of parks from north to south, there is bound to be a natural place nearby that you can take full advantage of, if not then that's a good excuse for an adventure. Parks are one of those family things to do in Maine in spring when you can enjoy a gorgeous outdoor location with the ones you love the most.
5. Acadia National Park
Location: Acadia National Park, Maine
Popularity: Very popular
Price: $20-$35
No list of parks in Maine is complete without having the crown jewel of the state represented, Acadia National Park. This park is unlike any other park in the country and is part of what makes it so special. I have traveled to many different national parks and I have gained a new appreciation for this park once I realized its unique beauty was unmatched by any other park. This fact isn’t lost on many people from all over the world and for that reason, it is a very popular summer destination for many locals and tourists. To beat the crowds come a little bit earlier and enjoy spring in the park. Parts of the park close during the winter but once April rolls around the whole park will open back up and you can explore to your heart's content. I would recommend watching the sunrise from the summit of Cadillac Mountain, taking a hike around Jordan Pond, climbing the rocky coastline, and then finishing the day with a trip into Bar Harbor for some lobsters. You will have to look ahead for your favorite restaurants to find out when they open since most of the town operates seasonally. Acadia in the spring is a good time to get some breathing room from the crowds and adventure in Maine’s best park. You can also book a whale watching cruise and see these majestic beasts breach the water far off the Maine coast. Another great option is to make a big trip out of it and you can even add fun stops along the way back, once you leave Mount Desert Island, like Penobscot Narrows Bridge to see Fort Knox, or Bangor where you can see Stephen King’s home.
6. Popham State Park, Phippsburg
Location: Phippsburg, Maine
Popularity: Not very popular
Price: $2-$8
Spring in Maine might not be quiet beach weather yet but that doesn’t stop adventurers from getting outside and enjoying the soft sand between their toes. Popham Beach is a great place for romantic things to do in Maine in spring. Pick a nice warm day then take your significant other to the beach and go for a long walk holding hands. The soothing sound of the calming surf is the perfect backdrop to serenade you as you stroll then sprawl out on a blanket and have a picnic while watching the sunset. Now that sounds like a good romantic date to me! The fort just down the road is also a great spot for a picnic or if the gates are open a place to explore the abandoned structure. Speaking of abandoned places, did you know there is a series of military bunkers left in the woods right across from Fort Popham? Fort Baldwin is an excellent addition to your trip in the state park with rooms, hallways, stairs, and so much more to explore. Learn a little bit of the history and meander around a long-forgotten part of our past. Another option on a really warm day closer to summer is to launch a kayak out into the water and paddle around the coast. This is a great trip idea for anyone coming from Brunswick, but I do think that Popham Beach has a good location with accessibility for many people in the central Maine area.
7. Grafton Notch State Park, Newry
Location: Newry, Maine
Popularity: Popular
Price: $1-$4
Grafton Notch State Park is located in western Maine and houses some of the most impressive mountain views in the state, apart from the beloved Mount Katahdin, of course. If you are up for an epic hike a trip to the summit of Old Speck is a grueling and difficult climb but those who triumph are rewarded with stunning views. The park is open all year long so even if you choose to visit during the early days of spring you can likely expect to still see snow and ice. No problem, grab a good set of microspikes and you should be good to go. Knowing your limits and hiking safely is always key, however, in the snow or bright greenery of late spring this is a gorgeous trail. There are plenty of other great places to see inside the park's boundaries as well. Screw Auger Falls is a must-see, especially with the raging water you can expect to see around a season that has melted snow and higher-than-usual rainfall.
Spring Hikes In Maine
Hiking in the pine tree state is almost always a good cheap thing to do in Maine in spring. It is hard to beat viewing the beauty of the state when you lace up your hiking boots and hit the trail. From coastline spots to deep forested places if you know where to look the brilliance of Maine is just waiting to be found.
8. Fisherman’s Trail to Wiggly Bridge, York
Location: York, Maine
Popularity: Popular
Price: Free
As winter drags on sometimes you just need to go as south as possible to feel the warmth of the sun on your skin again. For that head on down to York for a hidden trail that is filled with diversity. Fisherman’s Trail to Wiggly Bridge is a fascinating hike that really breaks the norm when it comes to trails. I would recommend starting by the York Harbor Cliff Walk which is a simple 1-mile hike following the rocky coastline. Once you are done head on down to the beach for a break. After enjoying the ocean take on down the Fisherman’s Trail. This hike will follow the water as you pass docks, weave around a fisherman’s village, and traverse under an overpass. One of the best parts of the hike is the Jetty you walk along to get to the bridge. The bridge got its name due to the wobbling and bouncing nature of the structure as you walk across it. Once you are on the other side take a forested loop trail in the woods before circling back and returning. The great variety is what made this trail a fan favorite for our family. Find a nice warm day and enjoy all of the beauty of Maine in one simple trail. This is a great location for a short hike if you are coming from Kennebunkport, New Hampshire, Ogunquit, or any of the other towns in the lovely southern end of the Pinetree state.
9. Reed Brook Falls, Kingsfield
Location: Kingsfield, Maine
Popularity: Not very popular
Price: Free
Reed Brook Falls also known as Jericho Steps is located on private property but the owners have graciously opened it up to the public. I am very thankful for this because I believe this is the prettiest waterfall in all of Maine. If you like to chase waterfalls then this is a must and with a good amount of snow meltage and rain the mighty roar will make this waterfall even more memorable. There are plenty of beautifully hand-painted signs on the property to guide you along your journey but stepping into these woods is akin to stepping into a fairytale. There are plenty of hiding treasures along your hike to watch for like a lobster claw in the tree and a headless T-Rex toy. The waterfall itself is gorgeous and flows perfectly like a fluttering curtain of water gracing the pool below. You might make your way to Sugarloaf in the winter but this waterfall gives Mainers a great reason to head on over to the Carrabassett Valley this spring.
10. Huston Brook Falls, Moscow
Location: Moscow, Maine
Popularity: Not very popular
Price: Free
Moscow is located near Bingham and for most people this is a far out-of-the-way destination. It may take some time getting out to the parking lot but once you do you will quickly realize all the work was well worth it. Huston Brook Falls is a local hidden gem and also like Reed Brook Falls I would consider this one to be one of the best waterfalls in the state too. After a very short walk down to the falls you will witness a hulking waterfall and an impressive sight. I would also suggest taking a trip right down on the rocks in the water to get as close as possible to the base of the falls. You will get misted and sprayed by the mighty torrents of water flowing down or just find a nice spot and enjoy the rolling and churning water.
Spring Picnic Spots In Maine
To round off this list of things to do in Maine in spring we want to give you two fantastic picnic spots. I have gone on many picnics with my family and all across the state there are great places to just lay down a blanket and enjoy a meal with a view and with the people you love the most. So pack up your lunch and get ready to make some family memories.
11. Fort Williams, Cape Elizabeth
Location: Cape Elizabeth, Maine
Popularity: Very popular
Price: Parking fee: $2 per hour
For a small parking fee, this sprawling park makes for an amazing spot on Casco Bay to spend the afternoon. Not only does the park feature acres and acres of green space but there are also dedicated picnic tables and benches throughout the park. You can’t ask for a better view in Maine for your lunch as you position yourself facing the most photographed lighthouse in the state; The Portland Headlight. Not only can you witness this iconic Maine lighthouse but you can also spend time at the beach, go for a walk, and explore the abandoned forts scattered throughout the park. Not only can you have a great relaxing picnic the park is filled with exciting adventures just waiting to be had.
12. Camden
Location: Camden, Maine
Popularity: Very popular
Price: Free
I love a good picnic spot with a view but also plenty of options for things to do nearby. That's why Camden makes a great candidate for a springtime picnic spot. There are many places where you can just roll out a blanket or sit on a park bench. Camden is one of those quintessential harbor towns in Maine with a charming downtown filled with little shops, restaurants, and breweries. Behind the buildings is the harbor so you can walk the boardwalk and look at the boats coming and going. I have sat with my wife and just watched the boats bob up and down in a peaceful cadence before and would highly recommend doing the same. Enjoy the small beach near the end of downtown or if you are looking for something a little more secluded head into Camden Hills State Park which is only a short drive from downtown. There you can head to the coast and find a spot on the rocky shore for your lunch, or hike all the way up to Mount Battie and enjoy the sprawling scenic view of the town from up high. All over our beautiful American landscape, we have some pretty impressive coastal towns, but I still think Camden is one of the best small towns on the Atlantic Ocean. Looking for another classic small coastal town then head to Rockland which is also close by and makes for a great day trip.
When it comes to things to do in Maine in spring the list is endless but one thing is sure, we will be looking forward to warmer weather. As plants start to sprout up again and we trade the drab hues of winter for the multicolor fun of spring the world seems like a happier place. From oceans to forests, small towns to mountains there are lots of options in the state of Maine so head on outside and enjoy this amazing season.
Most people view Maine as a great summer destination with places like Mount. Katahdin, Moosehead Lake, an annual trip to L.L. Bean, or even taking a foodie adventure for some lobster rolls, However, there are still plenty of great places to visit anyway from mid-April and beyond when you start to see the real beauty of the spring season in Maine.
When it comes to travel suggestions you know you can count on us to come up with even more places you need to see during the spring in Maine.
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