You'll notice things in Maine more sharply than anywhere. The scent of pristine breezes, infused with pine or sea salt. The texture—plus the taste—of food that's incredibly fresh. Sounds as subtle as snow against a window pane and as distinctive as spring peepers' chorus or a loon's call. "Maine Invites You" is the state's slogan, and Mother Nature—like any good hostess—is determined to impress.
Visit Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is one of the most popular national parks in the U.S., and with all of its natural beauty, small-town charm, and opportunities for adventure, it's no wonder. Join the early sunrise watchers atop Cadillac Mountain, one of the first spots in the U.S. to greet the sun each day. There are 150 miles of identified trails within the park, so whether you're up for a casual stroll or a challenging climb, you'll find options at the extremes and everywhere in between. Afterwards, dip your toes in the cold Atlantic at Sand Beach. Do allow an extra day or two if you can to experience the neighboring town of Bar Harbor's one-of-a-kind attractions.
Explore Portland
If you're looking for a city break, you'll find plenty of things to do in Maine's urban hub, Portland. Along with boutique shopping in the Old Port neighborhood, gallery crawls in the Arts District, and an excellent craft brewery scene, the state's most populous city is also its biggest foodie hub and has attracted top culinary talent for years. Chef-guided standouts include Duckfat, Eventide Oyster Co., Hugo's, and Fore Street, which has been a James Beard Award semi-finalist consecutive years since 2011. For a restful night's stay with enviable views, consider booking a room at one of our favorite Portland hotels.
Go Whale Watching
From spring through early fall, large populations of migratory whales traverse the cold waters of the Gulf of Maine, which stretches from Nova Scotia, Canada, to Massachusetts' Cape Cod. These sea giants are a sight to behold in their natural habitat, and whale watching cruises that depart from Maine ports will take you up close to these fantastic mammals for photo ops and a learning opportunity, unlike anything you can experience on dry land. Plan your Maine whale watching excursion with this guide, which includes everything you need to know about tour providers and how to prepare.
Your Packing List
By late September, the nighttime cold snaps that trigger leaf color change are starting to occur; progressing from north to south, the Maine landscape takes on its most beautiful appearance of the year. Layering is smart, and you'll want warm, cozy sweaters and fleece jackets even while diehards in Boston are still wearing shorts.
Fall is Maine's rainy season—particularly along the coast—so pack an umbrella and raincoat.
Located in South Africa's coastal Eastern Cape province, Addo Elephant National Park was founded in 1931 to offer protection to the last remaining elephants in a decimated population. Addo's elephants are now thriving, as the 633-square-mile park is home to more than 600 of these large animals. With arid mountains, sand dunes, and coastal forest. the park provides a wide range of habitats for other species as well, including buffalo, leopards, lions, and rhinos. Addo is considered one of the best self-drive safari options in Southern Africa—not only for its rich biodiversity, but also for its accessibility.
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