Maine Car Rental

Guide to Maine

Geography

Maine is at the northeastern end of the US, right next to the Canadian provinces of Quebec and New Brunswick. Roughly, it can be divided into three regions: the Coastal Lowlands, Central Uplands, and the White Mountains. The highest point in the state is at Mt Katahdin, known by Native Americans as ‘the greatest mountain.’

Maine is the most forested state in the US. Over 83% of its land – that is, about 3.5 million acres – is covered with woodland. This is why it is nicknamed the Pine Tree State. 

Climate in Maine

Summers are warm and humid, with temperatures peaking at 70°F, and winters are moderately cool (~12°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, while snow is most heavy in the winter. If you choose to visit in the latter season, you might encounter heavy snowstorms known as Nor’easters.

Culture

Maine has a reputation for integrity, and a large reason for this is that it contributed greatly to the Civil War, supplying the Union with over 80,000 soldiers and several tons of supplies.

Things to Do in Maine

Explore Acadia National Park

This park, which is on the Atlantic coast, gets its name from the French l’Acadie, an approximation of the native term akadie (‘piece of land). The best way to experience it is by hiking. Remember to take a guide with you.

Other than the Schoodic Peninsula, the park also encapsulates different islands. All in all, it contains plenty of caves, lakes, mountains, fishing villages and wildlife for you to enjoy. Keep an eye out for snowshoe hares, American beavers, peregrine falcons, and otters. Moose can be found, too, though they’re extremely rare.

Discover local maritime history

The Maine Maritime Museum, which sits on the banks of the Kennebec River in Bath, is a great place to learn about local maritime history. It has plenty of exhibits that display Maine’s naval heritage from ship parts to artworks! The most interesting exhibit is a full-size replica of The Wyoming, the largest wooden schooner ever built on the continent.

Relax on the beaches

Maine’s best beaches are in the southern part of the state. Some popular options include Kennebunk Beach, Ogunquit Beach, and Old Orchard Beach. The region is also famous for its resorts, lighthouses, museums, forts, galleries, and amusement parks.

Eating out in Maine

Since Maine is a fairly rural state, much of its food – largely dairy or seafood-based – is locally sourced. The Clam Shack in Kennebunk is a small outlet, but you won’t easily forget the lobster rolls and fried clams you eat there. If you want to taste some of Maine’s best sushi, head to Miyake in Portland. The fish is either caught fresh in the state or shipped in directly from Japan. Downtown Diner offers warm, homely food, luring you in with dishes such as beef barley soup and blueberry pie. For some dining in the midst of nature, try Clay Hill Farm, which is not only a great countryside restaurant but also a wildlife sanctuary.

Maine Transport

Airports

International travelers typically fly in through Portland International Jetport (JPM), the busiest airport in the state.

Getting around

Within Maine, it’s best you travel by car. Popular car rental companies in Maine include Enterprise, Budget, and Hertz.