My introduction to the MidCoast region of Maine was entirely unplanned. En route to Acadia National Park from Massachusetts, a car malfunction in Rockland rerouted my father and me, turning a travel hiccup into a delightful discovery. This unexpected detour revealed hidden gems that quickly made MidCoast Maine one of my favorite areas in the state. From savoring peanut oil-griddled hot dogs at Wasses Hot Dogs and homemade Grapenut ice cream at Doorman’s Dairy Dream to exploring the gardens of Primo and hiking around Owl’s Head Lighthouse, that impromptu day unveiled the unique charm of this coastal region. Ironically, both my father and I found ourselves calling Maine home within a few years, a testament to the area’s allure.
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Since then, MidCoast Maine has become my go-to escape. Whether for a quick overnight stay or a day trip dedicated to exploring its burgeoning food scene, the region consistently captivates. Spanning several counties along Maine’s picturesque coastline, MidCoast boasts a diverse landscape of mountains, rocky shores, and some of the state’s most beautiful beaches. While summer brings bustling crowds, especially in towns like Wiscasset, my preferred time to visit is September and early October. During these months, the fall foliage begins to emerge, painting the landscape in vibrant hues, while the pleasant temperatures linger. Although quieter than the well-known Portland, MidCoast’s towns exude a strong sense of community and a thriving culinary spirit. Here’s your guide to experiencing some of the Best Maine Travel Destinations in the MidCoast.
A Culinary Journey Through MidCoast Maine
Brunswick often marks the beginning of my MidCoast adventures, and a stop at Dutchman’s is a must if timing allows. This bagel shop, born from a Portland’s Rose Foods alum’s pop-up, has quickly gained a devoted following for its wood-fired bagels. Crispy on the outside and delightfully chewy inside, these bagels are arguably among the best in Maine. Available from Thursday to Sunday, they tend to sell out fast, so online pre-ordering or an early arrival is recommended.
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No discussion of Maine’s food scene is complete without mentioning The Lost Kitchen. Located in Freedom, Erin French’s acclaimed restaurant operates within a charming mill and is renowned for its postcard lottery reservation system. While securing a table is notoriously challenging (even after multiple attempts, I’m still waiting for my turn), a visit to their small store offers a taste of The Lost Kitchen experience. Here, you can find locally crafted kitchenware, home goods, and other delightful items, providing a glimpse into the restaurant’s ethos and beautiful setting.
In Camden, The Place is a micro-bakery making waves with its exceptional pastries. This duo from Long Island utilizes local flour and dairy to create spectacular treats. Their menu features cookies, croissants, and creative rotating specials, like savory pastries filled with radicchio jam and celery walnut gremolata, or yogurt danishes with carrot puree and low-bush blueberries. Pre-orders are recommended, but arriving early is also a good strategy to sample their highly sought-after laminated dough creations, which are, in my experience, truly exceptional.
Despite Portland’s culinary reputation, my personal favorite restaurant in Maine resides in Rockland: Sammy’s Deluxe. This is the kind of place you enthusiastically recommend to fellow food lovers. The menu features staples like the House Smoked Haddock Snacks and Brown Bread baked in a can, alongside the must-try Sammy’s Cheeseburger. Beyond the mainstays, the menu is dynamic, reflecting seasonal ingredients and owner Sammy Richman’s foraged finds, resulting in dishes like Chicken-of-the-Woods Fettuccine Alfredo.
Long Grain in Camden holds a special place in my heart, marking my first restaurant meal after the 2020 travel restrictions began to ease. Their well-organized takeout system felt incredibly safe and those first bites of crab fried rice were unforgettable. Now dining indoors, I can attest that everything on their menu is consistently outstanding. From the comforting Kao Soi Gai with pickled mustard greens to the refreshing Nam Tok beef salad with its flavorful broth, Long Grain is a perfect spot year-round, whether you’re seeking warmth on a chilly day or a cool respite from the summer heat.
Experiencing the Best Things to Do in Maine’s MidCoast
For those with a passion for kitchen wares, like myself, Recycling Retro in Woolwich is a treasure trove. This vintage shop boasts an impressive collection of mid-century kitchen items, from percolators to Pyrex, perfect for a nostalgic browse and unique finds.
Angelo Santo in Wiscasset, the new venture from Maria Vettesse of the former More & Co., continues to offer beautifully curated objects. Expect to find stunning blue and white ceramics from local artist Chloe May Brown and vibrant circus stools and prints from CDR, alongside new and equally captivating discoveries.
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Morse’s Sauerkraut in Waldoboro is a must-visit German-style delicatessen and grocery. For over a century, they’ve adhered to the same sauerkraut recipe and production process, using locally grown, hand-cut cabbage. Their sauerkraut, available across Maine, is truly exceptional. This is an ideal stop to stock up on snacks for your travels or late-night treats, especially considering many MidCoast restaurants close relatively early.
First Fig in Camden, owned by Joanna Spinks, is a neighborhood bottle shop and wine bar that fosters a sense of community. They serve locally roasted coffee from Kavka, pastries from The Place, and host regular events like makers markets, oyster nights, and Taco Sundays, making it a vibrant hub.
A visit to Glidden Point Oyster Farm is essential for oyster aficionados. Take a farm tour to learn about oyster cultivation or simply order fresh oysters at the window, get a shucking lesson, and enjoy them at a picnic table overlooking the water. Learning to shuck oysters might just be the most unique and delicious souvenir from Maine.
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The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay offers 300 acres of gardens to explore. Open from May to October, the Gardens provide a tranquil escape and an opportunity to admire Maine’s natural beauty. Early autumn is a particularly beautiful and peaceful time to visit, with the changing foliage enhancing the lush landscape.
For panoramic views, Mount Battie near Camden is easily accessible. Part of Camden Hills State Park, it offers both a scenic drive and a short hike to the summit. The view overlooking Penobscot Bay and Camden Harbor is breathtaking, especially during fall foliage season, making it a perfect spot for leaf peeping.
Charming Places to Stay in MidCoast Maine
Whitehall, just a short walk from downtown Camden, offers historic charm. This former ship captain’s mansion, dating back to 1834 and converted into an inn in 1901, is now operated by Lark Hotels. The 36-room boutique property features bright décor and coastal accents. Breakfast includes pastries and overnight oats, and afternoon cookies are a treat. Rooms are cozy, and while some have shared bathrooms, the front porch, fire pit, and shuffleboard courts provide relaxing spaces. Literary enthusiasts will appreciate that poet Edna St. Vincent Millay was discovered here in 1912.
250 Main Hotel in Rockland is a 26-room pet-friendly boutique hotel in the heart of downtown, steps from the harbor. Rooms feature reclaimed and vintage furniture, oversized windows, and local artwork. Heated bathroom floors and towel racks add a touch of luxury. The rooftop deck and daily happy hour with complimentary drinks and snacks are not to be missed.
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The Norumbega, a recently renovated boutique hotel just outside Camden, offers stunning views of Penobscot Bay, particularly beautiful in the fall. Guest rooms feature private patios, fireplaces, and even a two-story library suite. The hotel bar serves excellent cocktails like a Boulevardier, perfect for enjoying on the patio amidst the fall foliage. A fire pit adds to the cozy ambiance on cool evenings.
MidCoast Maine, with its blend of culinary delights, scenic beauty, and charming accommodations, truly stands out as one of the best Maine travel destinations. Whether you’re a foodie, nature enthusiast, or seeking a relaxing coastal escape, MidCoast Maine offers an unforgettable experience.
