While a Maine event pun may not be the most original way to kick off a seasonal destination article, the fall-ready state offers more than enough activities and events to make up for it.
Between Maine’s vibrant changing leaves, currently in peak color season, and the state’s year-round natural beauty and adventure activities, this retreat could be one for the books for your next family getaway.
Travel for the seasonal events and stay for the incredible hikes with this helpful lists of things to do in Maine this autumn.
Seasonal Arts and Culture
Andrew Wyeth, a local celebrity and well-known artist, is the center of a new exhibition at the Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland, Maine. Titled “Andrew Wyeth: Witches, Ghosts and Mischief,” this seasonal exhibit showcases a different, dark side to Wyeth, which pairs perfectly with the spooky season. The exhibit runs through March 1, 2020.
Fall Foliage and Sunshine
With Northeast Maine’s stunning fall foliage in full swing, a scenic drive, walk or picnic is a must. October brings mild temperatures and quite a bit of sunshine so don’t let the “north” in Northeast fool you — the weather is near perfect for outdoor activities. Just bring some warm layers for less active days.
Scenic Picnics and Daytrips
For calm walks with the kids, picnics by the lake, pond or just a relaxing nature preserve to visit, head to any one of Maine’s many public spaces. This is a great way to blend some family time with fall foliage and outdoor vistas without spending too much time in the car or on the trail. Great for the little ones and less enthusiastic hikers in the family.
State Parks and Epic Hikes
For families looking to get in the thick of the fall colors as athletically as they can, Maine’s state parks are the best place to start. Check out Camden Hills State Park for stunning views; Bradbury Mountain for epic biking trails; Baxter State Park for rocky terrain and lakeside views; Grafton Notch State Park’s calming falls; and Maine’s famously beautiful Mahoosuc Range for sweeping mountainscapes and breathtaking vistas.
Dog resting in Grafton Notch State Park, Maine. Photo: Drewthehobbit | Dreamstime.com
Visit Maine actually recommends the following hikes:
Bridgton’s 2,006-foot Pleasant Mountain includes a 3.6-mile moderate hike along the Ledges Trail. The focal point includes an amazing view of the entire White Mountain and Mt. Washington summit.
The more challenging, adventurous 11-mile out-and-back of Baxter State Park’s Traveler Mountain is best for active families and skilled hikers. Plan for some scrambling and above tree line views.
For coastal stunners, Acadia National Park’s Cadillac Mountain boasts island and ocean views.
Be sure to check out each park’s website before planning your trip for more information on activity clearances, parking, weather and trail conditions, what to pack and the difficulty level of the trail.
As far as seasonal sights and fall foliage, you can’t go wrong with any of Maine’s state parks. Read more hiking and climbing suggestions from the state itself at Visit Maine.
#WhereverFamily
Insta FeedMultigenerational
Apr 19, 2024Family-Friendly Offerings from Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection
Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection includes the largest portfolio of luxury all-inclusive resorts in the world — many of them perfect for family travelers. And two current offers might entice your family even more.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines Celebrates its First Class of United Aviate Graduates
As the only major U.S. airline to own a flight school, United Airlines already hit a major milestone, and now the carrier celebrates another important — and historic — step as the inaugural class of United Aviate Academy pilots graduates, leading the next generation of aviators. The 51 students in the graduating class were majority, at 80 percent, women and people of color — another stride toward United’s goal of training 5,000 new pilots by 2030 with half women or POC.
Cruising
Apr 15, 2024Some of Europe’s Best Day Cruises
A week cruising along the Danube or the Rhine may be the stuff of dreams for many, but family travelers can enjoy views from the water in ways kinder to the family budget. Many riverside cities offer scenic cruises, and some Baltic or Mediterranean ports have daytrips to nearby islands or coastal attractions. In several cities you can cruise the canals, and in Switzerland you can spend a day cruising on Lake Geneva, with sightseeing stops in lakeside towns.
Multigenerational
Apr 15, 2024Enjoy Multigenerational Travel in New York with Motto by Hilton
Family Travel Agent recently found family travel will continue to grow this year, as 81 percent of families expressed their likelihood of traveling in 2024. Of that group, more than 50 percent plan to take part in multigenerational travel. If that multigen travel is taking place in New York City, two hotels, Motto Times Square and Motto Chelsea, prove ideal options.
Sponsored Content
Make the Most of Hamad International Airport When Transferring
Making travel plans can be exciting; did you know planning on how to spend time at the airport the right way can enrich the overall trip experience? As a transfer hub, traveling through Doha's Hamad International Airport is a unique experience, as waiting never feels like waiting at one of the best airports in the world.
Cruising
Apr 10, 2024Explore Holland America Line’s “Nieuw Amsterdam’s” Kids Club
Don’t think a cruise with Holland America Line is just for adults. Aboard the cruise line’s Nieuw Amsterdam ship, a dedicated Kids Club ensures family travelers of all ages have a good time both at sea and port.
ShareThis