Midcoast Maine remains a favorite fall destination among well-traveled “leaf peepers” thanks to our state’s vibrant colors, breathtaking coastlines, and classic New England charm. So, naturally, the Boothbay Harbor area has blossomed into one of the best fall vacations in the US for families, groups of friends, and honeymooners. In fact, very few autumn wedding venues in the state rival Linekin Bay Resort and the nearby coastal sailing is second-to-none. Visiting Midcoast Maine in the fall should rank high on your seasonal bucket list as the countryside that flanks the Atlantic Ocean transforms into a jaw-dropping blend of amber, crimson, marigold, and kelly green in mid-to-late September.
4 Quintessential Fall Activities
To ensure that your upcoming autumn escape to Boothbay Harbor, Maine, is nothing short of flawless, we’ve compiled four quintessential activities worth trying during your visit to Linekin Bay Resort. These unique fall break ideas will unquestionably be the highlights of your trip.
1. Visit the Fall Foliage Festival
Midcoast Maine wouldn’t be one of the best fall vacations in the US without the Boothbay Harbor Village’s annual Fall Foliage Festival. Join thousands of other autumn enthusiasts for an entire weekend of steam train rides, craft demonstrations, live entertainment, lobster rolls, kettle corn, and steaming cups of apple cider. The heritage village itself features nearly 60 automobiles, towering (and colorful) forestry, and charming, aging buildings. The Fall Foliage Festival always lands on Columbus Day, signifying the end of “peak tourism” here in Boothbay Harbor.
2. Visit Monhegan Island
Our good friends at Balmy Days Cruises provide lighthouse, nature, and ocean lovers with a unique, all-in-one boat trip to gorgeous Monhegan Island, which is located approximately 12 miles out at sea. The island itself features towering rock cliffs, a small fishing commune, and, of course, a stone lighthouse. Hop aboard the Balmy Days II, a sturdy, 65-foot fiberglass boat en route to this secluded natural marvel. You’ll have nearly four hours of downtime on Monhegan Island where you can peruse through shops, visit the lighthouse museum, enjoy a cliffside picnic, and hike along the 17-mile trail system. Sealife, particularly whales and seals, are often spotted on the voyage to and from the isle.
3. Visit a State Park
While a day-trip to Acadia National Park isn’t out of the question, there are several nearby state parks worthy of a midday visit. Plus, nothing beats a lazy drive along Maine’s coast during autumn’s peak. We recommend these three unique parks, all of which have defining features.
- Camden Hills State Park
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- Location: Camden
- Defining feature: Mount Battie
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- Popham Beach State Park
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- Location: Phippsburg
- Defining features: the Fox Islands and Fort Popham
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- Reid State Park
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- Location: Georgetown
- Defining feature: the tide pools
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4. Enjoy a Pumpkin Latte
Before spending a day at the ultra-popular Damariscotta Pumpkinfest & Regatta, stop at Red Cup Coffeehouse for a seasonal pumpkin latte. Red Cup is one of our favorite cafes in the heart of Boothbay Harbor as its equally historic, charming, and mildly kitschy. The fresh-baked goods, breakfast burritos, and house blends are all spectacular. They also craft the best seasonal drinks in town, including their spicy, mildly-sweet pumpkin latte served in a signature red mug.
Best Fall Vacations in the US: Linekin Bay Resort
Hopefully, you have a better understanding of what makes this region so incredibly unique during fall’s peak. As one of the best fall vacations in the US, Linekin Bay Resort is bustling during September and October. Most Midcoast Maine vacations in October are typically booked well in advance, so act fast. To learn more about the area’s best fall spots and our waterfront resort, please give us a call today at 207-633-2494.