Maine, the northeastern most U.S. state, is known for its rocky coastline, maritime history and nature areas like the granite and spruce islands of Acadia National Park. Moose are plentiful in Baxter State Park, home to Mt. Katahdin, endpoint of the Appalachian Trail. Lighthouses such as the candy-striped beacon at West Quoddy Head, dot the coast, as do lobster shacks and sandy beaches like Ogunquit and Old Orchard Beach.
10 INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT MAINE | WHAT IS MAINE KNOWN FOR?
With the nickname “Vacationland” Maine is a popular destination for families and anyone who loves the outdoors.
What is it about Maine that attracts almost 25 million visitors a year?
Maine is most famous for its lobster.
If you’re wondering what is Maine known for, it’s lobster! Whether you like it steamed, baked, or in a bun, Maine lobster is something that everyone should sample at least once. You can eat it in other states, but for the freshest, sweetest, most succulent taste, eating lobster in Maine is the ultimate indulgence.
Maine has 3,478 miles of coastline.
That’s the fourth most coastline in the country, including inlets and islands. Only Florida and Louisiana have more miles of coastline in the continental United States. Alaska has the most coastline of any state at 33,904 miles.
Maine has more than 4,600 offshore islands.
Only about 1,200 Maine coastal islands have an acre or more, and 600 comprise 95% of the island acreage. Of these islands, only 15 have a year-round population.
One of the facts about Maine that few people know is that Vinalhaven is, by far, the most populous, having 1,269 residents in the 2020 census. It’s about 12 miles off the coast near Rockland in Penobscot Bay.
The Maine state berry is the wild Maine blueberry.
What fruit is Maine known for you ask? It’s wild blueberries. In fact, Maine grows more wild blueberries than any other place on Earth, producing 99% of the nation’s blueberries.
You can’t visit Maine without enjoying wild Maine blueberries in a variety of ways — blueberry pancakes (topped with maple syrup) or a slice of blueberry pie (the Maine state dessert). A personal favorite restaurant with blueberry dishes is the Maine Diner in Wells. It’s kid-friendly and always busy.
Maine has many haunted inns and lighthouses.
If you’re the type of traveler who enjoys a good ghost story, Maine has plenty of inns and lighthouses that boast spirits from the past who still linger in the present. Some are friendly, while others are troubled. If you enjoy the sensation of the hair standing up on the back of your neck, Maine is the place to come for hair-raising experiences.
Maine’s highest mountain is Mt. Katahdin with a 5,268-foot elevation.
Located in Baxter State Park, Mt. Katahdin is the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Hiking is popular in the park and the average hike on Katahdin takes between eight and 12 hours round trip. If you plan to hike, reserve a parking spot because they’re limited.
Maine has a total of 65 lighthouses.
Maine is known for its dozens of lighthouses along the rocky shores of the Atlantic Ocean. West Quoddy Head Light is the easternmost point in the U.S. and the first place to see the morning sun rise. It has a beautiful candy cane red and white striped tower. Tours of the tower are offered during the summer.
Maine has its very own desert.
This is one of the Maine state facts that’s hard to believe but is true. The state’s desert is a privately owned tourist attraction that was created by nature and has activities for the entire family.
Maine has over 6,000 lakes and ponds.
One of the many interesting facts about Maine is that the largest Maine lake is Moosehead Lake, which is over 75,000 acres. On the other end of the spectrum, Staples Pond has only 56 acres, making it the smallest.
No matter which freshwater activities you enjoy, the state has a body of water that can facilitate it. Maine also has its share of lake monsters for those who enjoy a good mystery.
Maine has more than 100 breweries and more than two dozen wineries.
Take a road trip, and hit the Maine Wine Trail. When you visit six wineries, you’ll earn a Winery Guild T-shirt and a chance at the grand prize. What could be better than sampling delicious Maine wine and being rewarded for doing it?
If beer is more to your taste, don’t worry. The Maine Beer Trail is just what you’re looking for. Take a tour, sample craft beers, and enjoy delicious food. It’s all good!