For years we’ve been giving you recommendations for our favorite places to eat, see, explore and relax in Maine. A lot of these spots we’ve loved for years and, based on comments and emails we’ve received, we know these are some of your favorites as well. But there’s so much more to this state and we can’t resist sharing some of the lesser-known hidden gems in Maine that you to check out as well. The next time you want to explore some new things, open this road trip in Google Maps and see some more of what Maine has to offer!

1. Colby College Museum of Art, Waterville

Stop number one might take a little while so be sure to arrive fueled with coffee! The Colby College Museum is believed to have the state's most diverse collection of American art, with more than 8,000 works housed in an impressive glass-and-steel space.

2. World’s Largest Paul Bunyan Statue, Bangor

So, we don't know for sure that this is the actual largest version of this statue, but we like to believe it is and so does most of Maine. Minnesota might lay an actual claim to him, but our lumber history means we deserve a piece of him looking over us as well. You can find the statue in a park across from the Civic Center standing at about 31 feet tall. The history behind how this statue came to be is truly fascinating, and even though it's over 30 feet tall, it's still one of our favorite hidden gems in Maine.

3. The Bar Island Trail, Bar Harbor

Next up is a chance to get moving and take in some of that salty Maine air! But you'll want to try to time things just right since this trail is only accessible for about 3 hours when the tide is low. The simple walk connects Bar Harbor with Bar Island and makes for a fun and relaxing way to spend the day. But, time yourself properly or you might end up stuck for a few hours until the tide goes out again!

4. The Maine State Prison Showroom, Thomaston

Ready for some shopping? Now that you've enjoyed some fresh air it's time to enjoy some local flair in the form of this Maine hidden gem. It's filled with hand-crafted items made by inmates. They've got tons of one-of-a-kind items perfect for both personal souvenirs and gifts, all crafted by inmates within Maine's prison system.

5. Rockland Cafe, Rockland

And finally it's time to eat! While this place is a beloved institution in town, it might be new to those traveling from other parts of the state. Rockland Cafe has been around for more than 25 years and they offer a large menu of comfort foods and seasonal choices.

6. Kenneth E. Stoddard Shell Museum, Boothbay

This museum is a true hidden gem in Maine in that focuses completely on what its name suggests. Kenneth E. Stoddard traveled through the South Pacific building his collection little by little. The museum is now run by his son, who promised his father he'd care for it after he'd passed away. This is a fun little stop that acts as a nice complement to some of the other things on this road trip.

7. The Royalsborough Inn at the Bagley House (and alpacas!), Durham

You've now been driving for the better part of the day and it might be time to take a break. Make it an overnight break with a stay at this lovely little bed and breakfast between Brunswick and Freeport. Built in 1772 by one of the first settlers of the town, Capt. O. Israel Bagley, The Bagley House is the oldest house standing in the town of Durham today. Give it a visit to rest up for the day ahead, which will include some time here in the morning visiting with the alpacas on the farm!

8. The Wiggly Bridge, York

You've bought handmade gifts created by people in the Maine prison system, you've walked a path that only exists for three hours each day and you've explored one man's extensive shell collection. By now you're awed by the unique hidden gems and Maine and well-rested for just one last stop on your road trip. The Wiggly Bridge in York is a fun little attraction connecting York Harbor to Steedman Woods. As suspension bridges go, the wooden portion spans a teensy 75 feet and when you walk, the entire thing bounces and wiggles!

Have you been to any of these hidden gems in Maine? If so, let us know your favorites in the comments. And if we’ve left anything off that you think is worth checking out share that too!

The hidden gems are fantastic, but the attractions that are well-known are loved for a reason! If you've never been, the summit of Cadillac Mountain is truly an awe-inspiring place, it's no wonder why it was once named the most beautiful place in Maine. We have to agree!