Finding Fun in Maine This Summer
Summer in Maine is hard to beat. From outdoor happy hours, to beach days, or spending time outside doing your favorite activity, there are so many opportunities to enjoy all that Maine has to offer this time of year. With the price of gas and inflation in general really adding extra stress to the wallet — we wanted to give you some budget friendly ideas on how you can still enjoy Maine without breaking the bank.
Sunsets by the water
Looking to get outside and spend the evening with a great view? Head to Thompson's Point! On Thursday's and Friday's you can enjoy live music, and a great view of the sun setting overlooking Fore River. Bring a blanket and relax with some friends. It starts at 4 and runs until sunset and is totally free! Food trucks are parked along Thompson's Point too along with drinks served under the pavilion.
Picnics on the prom
Sometimes all it takes is a change of scenery to bring some joy and change up your routine! Instead of having lunch or dinner at home, bring it to the Eastern Promenade or the West Promenade for a picnic! Both spots are great in the evenings for sunset or you can find some shade under trees for lunch!
Purchase a state park pass
Did you know Maine has a state park pass? For $55 your pass will get you into 39 state parks/beaches across Maine! If you're someone who likes to check things off a list — this might be a fun investment for you! Plus since you paid for it in advance it'll make it seem like you're visiting some of these parks for free.
Hike/walk/bike on our local trails
Want to save on the gas money and stay local instead of driving a couple hours to the mountains? There are plenty of parks and trails that you can enjoy in and around Portland. AllTrails is a great resource to find top trails nearby. Whether you're looking for a great view, something easy on your lunch break or maybe something a little more challenging there's a ton of options locally. Here are some of our favorites:
Bayside Trail is a 3 mile out and back trail in Portland perfect for walking, running or biking.
Fore River Sanctuary White Trail is a 3.3 out and back trail in Portland and is popular for walking, running or mountain biking.
Robinson Woods Outer Loop Trail is a 1.4 mile loop in Cape Elizabeth and is a great trail for bird watching and staying out of the sun!
Score some deals at Happy Hour
If you're looking for an evening out but want to keep things pretty cheap, a happy hour is a great option! Support your favorite local businesses by checking their happy hour hours and deals! Here are some of our favorites:
Dock Fore has two happy hours a day! One from 3 p.m to 7 p.m. and the other select drinks from 7 p.m. to close.
Terlingua has happy hour Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. and includes $5 eats, $5 rotating drafts and $8 cocktails.
Bayside Bowl has happy hour Monday through Friday until 5 p.m. with $2 domestic beers, $2 Moosehead drafts, & $5 margaritas.
We whole-heartedly believe Maine has something to offer during every season but summer is one of our favorites! Making a summer bucket list can also help open your eyes to some fun activities you never would have thought of otherwise. Enjoy Maine, and the way life should be!
Article By: Lauren Healy