On The Way to Acadia, Explore the MidCoast

Acadia National Park is among the top ten most visited parks in the U.S. Its popularity ranks with Yellowstone and Great Smoky Mountains, and it draws over 3 million visitors annually. Traveling to Acadia from the south, you’ll pass through Maine’s MidCoast and Islands region. The area is arguably Maine at its best.

This is where “the mountains meet the sea.” With our pristine lakes, dense forests, charming main streets and fresh, local seafood, it’s no wonder that the MidCoast is called the “Middle of Amazing.” With so many activities and places to visit, here are a few of our favorites:

 

 

America’s Historic Lighthouses

Maine has the most oceanfront lighthouses in America, and the MidCoast is home to 24 of these historic beacons. Today, many lighthouses are open to the public, and several have adjacent museums. Some can be enjoyed by lighthouse tours on the water or from the comfort of your car. Each lighthouse is wonderful to explore in the daytime and to see glowing brilliantly at night. You can plan a lighthouse tour here.

 

 

Charming Villages and Scenic Harbors

The villages and towns in the MidCoast have attracted artists, outdoor adventurers, and vacationers for generations. Each town has unique charm, shops, galleries, inns, hotels, and notable food scenes. Take an easy walk along any main street to discover hidden gardens along side streets, small craft shops, outdoor outfitters, farmers markets, or a quiet café for coffee or hot cider. There are so many towns to see – Camden, Brunswick, Rockland, Boothbay, Union, Searsport, Belfast and many more.

 

 

Classic Lobster Shacks

As the lobster capital of the world, it’s easy to find fabulous lobster in every MidCoast town. For a truly memorable experience, go where the locals go: to a lobster shack along the road or on the edge of a harbor. You’ll find whole lobsters and buttery lobster rolls along with clam chowder, baked beans, chips, slaw, and often, homemade desserts.

 

 

Award-Winning Restaurants

In recent years, a new generation of chefs in the MidCoast has created some of the most awarded restaurants in America. Each year, James Beard Foundation awards and reviews in Gourmet and other leisure publications have highlighted an exciting food scene. In 2024, The New York Times listed The Alna Store as one of the nation’s best restaurants. Other restaurants not to miss include Suzuki’s Sushi Bar in Rockland, Primo in Rockland, The Lost Kitchen in Freedom, and Natalie’s in Camden.

 

 

Mountain Hikes and Easy Walks

Challenging trails and many easy walks in the MidCoast offer spectacular views of distant islands and hours of enjoyment. The Ragged Mountain area in Camden is among the highest summits on the US eastern seaboard. Hikers are greeted with views of Mt. Washington and, to the east, the Acadian hills. Miles of easy, family-friendly walks throughout the MidCoast can be discovered here.

 

 

Sailing, Kayaking and So Many Beaches!

The pristine lakes and ocean coastline in the MidCoast are renowned for relaxation and adventure. Hundreds of freshwater lakes and ponds are ideal for canoeing, swimming, or fishing. To truly experience the ocean, sail Penobscot Bay on a magnificent wooden Windjammer schooner. You can cruise the placid bay for a day or a week. For kayakers, the MidCoast is a paddler’s dream to see abundant sea life and shore birds and explore hidden coves. You can rent kayaks, take lessons, or have guided tours from boating outfitters along the coast.

 

 

Art Capital of Maine

Maine has attracted generations of artists and photographers, including Georgia O’Keeffe, Winslow Homer, Louise Nevelson, and Edward Hopper. Today, great artists and galleries can be found throughout the state. And one town is at the center of it all. Banners in Rockland rightly declare the town as the “Art Capital of Maine.” The Center for Maine Contemporary Art and the nationally recognized Farnsworth Art Museum are within a block of each other. And a dozen more galleries can be found just steps away.

 

Before or After Visiting Acadia

While the MidCoast offers “Everything Maine,” it does one thing even better. If you’re seeking some zen and chill time, the MidCoast is a special place to unwind. Countless quiet ponds, hidden trails, and hidden harbors offer an escape from a hectic world. If your idea of a vacation includes reading a book, enjoying a leisurely cocktail, or watching the sunset over the ocean, you’ve found your destination.

Browse our Travel Stories for more on any of these MidCoast activities — from restaurants featuring Fall Flavors of Maine to Summer Sailing Festivals, and more!