Maine's coastline is studded with lighthouses whose historical and architectural value make them a popular tourist destination during the summer months. Some of the most popular include Bass Harbor head, located on Mt. Desert Island and the quaint Fort Point lighthouse (visitmaine.com) in Stockton Springs, which was an important signal to lumbering boats heading to Bangor in the mid-1800s. There are also picturesque river lighthouses, including Doubling Point along the Kennebec River in Arrowsic. Map out a series of lighthouses to explore as a couple for a fascinating and educational road trip.
This centuries-old New England tradition -- similar to square dancing -- takes place in community centers and dance halls throughout Maine. Dances feature a live band often consisting of fiddle, mandolin and bass players along with a "caller" who tells the crowd what dance steps to do next. The dances are partner-based, and each couple usually separates to dance with other groups before rejoining their original partner at the refrain. Contradances provide a thrilling and physically demanding activity for adventurous couples of all ages who want to connect with local Mainers.
Couples with a love of gastronomy should explore Maine culture with a tour of seafood restaurants throughout the state. The Bar Harbor area boasts restaurants for every price range emphasizing Maine's seafood specialty: lobster. Portland, Maine's largest city, is also considered a culinary epicenter of New England, offering a variety of fine dining options featuring freshly caught entrees. Restaurants in any of Maine's coastal cities offer couples an endless supply of romantic evenings.
Maine also provides lovers of the outdoors with a wide range of wilderness areas and hiking trails. Baxter State Park (baxterstateparkauthority.com) boasts over 200,000 acres of land and includes the majestic Mount Katahdin, northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail. Hikers can camp in the park and hike the final stretch of the trail to breathtaking views at the peak. Acadia National Park (nps.gov) is another major destination for nature-lovers, boasting numerous hiking trails, camping options and the coastal views from Cadillac Mountain.
