A Vacationland Insider’s Guide: 5 Unusual Maine Attractions

Maine’s nickname is no accident. Picturesque beaches, lush forests, and delectable eateries in every direction find themselves on the itineraries of Vacationland regulars. But, if you can peek past your Main Street favorites, you’ll encounter lesser-known Maine attractions by the boatload — explore like a local and take to one or more of these Pine Tree State gems off the beaten path.

Unusual Maine Attractions: An Insider’s Guide

1. Vaughan Woods (South Berwick, ME)

To most, a trip to southern Maine means letting the sand run between your toes at pristine beaches, but there’s more to soak in than sun and surf. Vaughan Woods, a stunning state park about 30 minutes west of Ogunquit, offers you a snapshot of Maine’s wild side (without forcing you to explore the 100-Mile Wilderness). With picnic facilities and hiking trails weaving in and around 250 acres of forested tract, you’ll find photo-ops galore along the scenic Salmon Falls River, classic stone walls, and serene waterfalls.

2. Wiggly Bridge (York, ME)

Not many York area visitors choose to stray from direct paths to the coastline, but a noteworthy (and bounce-worthy) Maine attraction awaits for those who opt for a scenic alternative. At the end of State Route 103 you’ll encounter Wiggly Bridge, possibly the smallest suspension bridge in the world. The wooden deck spans just 75 feet, bouncing and flexing as you cross from one tiny tower to the next — perfect for energetic kids (or kids-at-heart!).

3. Maine Wildlife Park (Gray, ME)

If you’re an animal lover, the town of Gray (just 25 minutes north of Portland) is home to a Maine attraction worth going wild over. Big cats, a bald eagle, and a majestic moose barely begin to list the long lineup at the Maine Wildlife Park. All of the animals are brought in due to injury or an inability to survive in the wild, living permanently at the park for protection, healing, and of course, admiring.

4. Maine State Prison Showroom (Thomaston, ME)

Don’t judge a shop by its name — even the most seasoned shopaholic will find something special at the Maine State Prison Showroom. The shop is stocked to the brim with reasonably-priced trinkets and novelty knickknacks handcrafted by Maine State Prison inmates, including intricate wooden ships, woodland paintings, dollhouses, and lobster traps. See or buy these surprisingly-impressive works of art during a visit to Camden — the showroom is just a 20-minute drive down the coast.

5. Bagaduce Lunch (Brooksville, ME)

Most of us will never find the time to test out every restaurant that cooks up succulent Maine meals, but if you truly love your lobster, put Bagaduce Lunch on your culinary bucket list. This small shack in Brooksville may not seem like very much at a glance, but it’s been serving up what some call the best lobster roll in Maine for as long as locals remember. Grab a bite on your way up to Bar Harbor or on a scenic drive along the rocky Maine shoreline. Although those sunsets on the Atlantic never get old, there’s more to Maine than beaches and boardwalks. Take a tour of these offbeat Maine attractions and be sure to make a reservation at one of our Maine inns or resorts — we’ll show you a local’s view of Vacationland.