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Posted: June 26, 2017

Maine summer bucket list: 24 ways to make the most of it

Make the most of your summer because it won’t last forever

Written by: Staff Reports
  • Paddle somewhere wonderful Who doesn't love a good paddle? Even if you don't have the luxury of owning your own canoe or kayak, there are plenty of places to rent one. Then you can paddle 'til your heart's content. Or, you know, until your time runs out and you need to bring back the boat. The Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center (on Pine Point Road in Scarborough) rents canoes and kayaks for easy-going paddles along the winding marsh waters. They also do guided tours during the day and under the full moon. Staff photo by Shawn Patrick Ouellette Great places to paddle: 10 easy paddles in southern-ish Maine: Calm waters to explore by kayak, canoe or SUP. Need to rent? Where to rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard

    Paddle somewhere wonderful

    Who doesn't love a good paddle? Even if you don't have the luxury of owning your own canoe or kayak, there are plenty of places to rent one. Then you can paddle 'til your heart's content. Or, you know, until your time runs out and you need to bring back the boat. The Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center (on Pine Point Road in Scarborough) rents canoes and kayaks for easy-going paddles along the winding marsh waters. They also do guided tours during the day and under the full moon. Staff photo by Shawn Patrick Ouellette

    Great places to paddle: 10 easy paddles in southern-ish Maine: Calm waters to explore by kayak, canoe or SUP.

    Need to rent? Where to rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboard

  • Eat Pier Fries in Old Orchard Beach For me, summer officially arrives in Maine on the day I eat my first pier fries of the season. Admittedly, that's usually in April, when Pier French Fries At Old Orchard Beach opens up on weekends. I love summer, can you blame me for being impatient? These fries can be loaded up with salt and vinegar and ketchup and devoured in front of the Atlantic. Two warnings: You will long for them come February. And please, eat your pier fries after you hit the rides at Palace Playland. Staff photo by John Patriquin

    Eat Pier Fries in Old Orchard Beach

    For me, summer officially arrives in Maine on the day I eat my first pier fries of the season. Admittedly, that's usually in April, when Pier French Fries At Old Orchard Beach opens up on weekends. I love summer, can you blame me for being impatient? These fries can be loaded up with salt and vinegar and ketchup and devoured in front of the Atlantic. Two warnings: You will long for them come February. And please, eat your pier fries after you hit the rides at Palace Playland. Staff photo by John Patriquin

  • Eat dinner at a farm Eating local is a great idea for lots of reasons, but maybe No. 1 is that it's so much tastier and fresher. This summer try eating as local as local gets: on the farm where the food was grown or raised. Watch animals graze, the sun set and the grasses blow in the wind while you eat some of the best food of your life. Photo courtesy of Emilie Inc.

    Eat dinner at a farm

    Eating local is a great idea for lots of reasons, but maybe No. 1 is that it's so much tastier and fresher. This summer try eating as local as local gets: on the farm where the food was grown or raised. Watch animals graze, the sun set and the grasses blow in the wind while you eat some of the best food of your life. Photo courtesy of Emilie Inc.

  • Eat lobster. At a lobster shack Sure, sure. Lobster doesn't seem like such a fleeting summer thing when you live in Maine year-round. But the opporunity to crack one of those puppies open at a lobster shack, while sitting on a picnic table, with the sea sitting idly nearby and two dozen gulls taking turns diving for your fries...well, that's a summer-only sort of experience. The Lobster Shack at Two Lights is a popular spot near Portland, but there's no shortage of shacks up and down the coast. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

    Eat lobster. At a lobster shack

    Sure, sure. Lobster doesn't seem like such a fleeting summer thing when you live in Maine year-round. But the opporunity to crack one of those puppies open at a lobster shack, while sitting on a picnic table, with the sea sitting idly nearby and two dozen gulls taking turns diving for your fries...well, that's a summer-only sort of experience. The Lobster Shack at Two Lights is a popular spot near Portland, but there's no shortage of shacks up and down the coast. Staff photo by Gregory Rec

  • See an outdoor concert Live music, outside, because it's beautiful out there and Mother Nature has amazing acoustics. There are a host of free outdoor concerts around Southern Maine. You bring the blanket, some snacks, and someone you really like to share the evening with. A 2013 concert at L.L. Bean. So many concerts this summer. LL Bean Free Summer Concerts | 7:30 p.m. Saturday (not every Saturday) through Sept. 5 | Freeport |

    See an outdoor concert

    Live music, outside, because it's beautiful out there and Mother Nature has amazing acoustics. There are a host of free outdoor concerts around Southern Maine. You bring the blanket, some snacks, and someone you really like to share the evening with. A 2013 concert at L.L. Bean. So many concerts this summer.

    LL Bean Free Summer Concerts | 7:30 p.m. Saturday (not every Saturday) through Sept. 5 | Freeport | www.llbean.com/summer
    Music on the Mall | 6 p.m. Wednesdays through August 26 | Town Mall, Brunswick | brunswickdowntown.org
    Free concerts at Fort Sumner | 6 p.m. Thursday nights through August 27 | Eastern Prom, Portland | www.easternpromenade.org
    Gazebo Concert Series | 7 p.m. Fridays though August 28 | The gazebo, Main Street, Bath | visitbath.com
    Waterfront Park Concert Series | 6 p.m. Saturdays through August 29 | Dock at Waterfront Park on Commercial Street, Bath | visitbath.com
    Riverbank Park Summer Concert Series | 6-8 p.m. Wednesdays through August 19 | Riverbank Park, Main Street, Westbrook | www.westbrookcommunitycenter.org
    Concerts in Ellis Park | 7-9 p.m. multiple nights of the week through September 6 | Ellis Park, at the gazebo near Short Sands, York | gatewaytomaine.org
    Belfast Summer Nights | 5:30-7:30 p.m. Thursdays through August 27 | Steamboat Landing Park, High and Main Streets | www.facebook.com/BelfastSummerNights Photo by Sarah Morrill

  • Visit one of Maine's most beautiful places Maine’s a beaut. Ain’t no doubt about it. She’s smart, too, and has quite the personality, but we can’t help stopping to stare at her rocky coast, cascading falls, and miles of mountaintops. No matter where you go in this state, there’s something unique to gawk at. But summer — that's when she's at her prime. Staff photo by Fred Field Some stunning ideas: Maine's most beautiful places. We also have a list of great places to camp on the coast if you want to spend the night.

    Visit one of Maine's most beautiful places

    Maine’s a beaut. Ain’t no doubt about it. She’s smart, too, and has quite the personality, but we can’t help stopping to stare at her rocky coast, cascading falls, and miles of mountaintops. No matter where you go in this state, there’s something unique to gawk at. But summer — that's when she's at her prime. Staff photo by Fred Field Some stunning ideas: Maine's most beautiful places.

    We also have a list of great places to camp on the coast if you want to spend the night.

  • Build a castle It's essential: When you go to the beach, you must build the castle you want to live in but can't afford to build IRL with bricks and mortar ... or wood. Beaches have plenty of sand for this purpose, so once you have a blueprint, you'll need to find a beach. Staff Photo by Gordon Chibroski If your dog wants to come, too: 13 dog-friendly summer beaches in Maine from York to Camden Some beaches close-ish to Portland: 7 of the most beautiful beaches within 45 minutes of Portland

    Build a castle

    It's essential: When you go to the beach, you must build the castle you want to live in but can't afford to build IRL with bricks and mortar ... or wood. Beaches have plenty of sand for this purpose, so once you have a blueprint, you'll need to find a beach. Staff Photo by Gordon Chibroski If your dog wants to come, too: 13 dog-friendly summer beaches in Maine from York to Camden
    Some beaches close-ish to Portland: 7 of the most beautiful beaches within 45 minutes of Portland

  • Catch a movie at the drive-in Classic. That's what drive-ins are. Netflix and Hulu are fine for winter or those night when you can't sleep until you've watched the entire season of Master Chef. But the drive-in is the best summer movie-watching experience. Try the Saco Drive-In, Bridgton Twin Drive-In, and Skowhegan Drive-In Staff photo by Pouya Diana To the drive-in! Check theaters and showtimes via mainetoday.com

    Catch a movie at the drive-in

    Classic. That's what drive-ins are. Netflix and Hulu are fine for winter or those night when you can't sleep until you've watched the entire season of Master Chef. But the drive-in is the best summer movie-watching experience. Try the Saco Drive-In, Bridgton Twin Drive-In, and Skowhegan Drive-In Staff photo by Pouya Diana

    To the drive-in! Check theaters and showtimes via mainetoday.com

  • Hike something Maybe you want to tackle Mount Washington or Katahdin. Maybe something a little more casual is more your speed. Whatever the distance or elevation, get on a trail this summer. Sure, hiking's great in the fall and even winter, too, but we think summer isn't quite summer without a least one good, sweaty hike. Photo by Carey Kish You can hike these: 10 easy Maine hikes anyone can do - Great views for the casual hiker

    Hike something

    Maybe you want to tackle Mount Washington or Katahdin. Maybe something a little more casual is more your speed. Whatever the distance or elevation, get on a trail this summer. Sure, hiking's great in the fall and even winter, too, but we think summer isn't quite summer without a least one good, sweaty hike. Photo by Carey Kish

    You can hike these: 10 easy Maine hikes anyone can do - Great views for the casual hiker

  • Ride the Casco Bay Lines ferry Destinations are nice. But taking the Casco Bay Lines ferry for no reason other than to ride the Casco Bay Lines ferry is equally swell. The ferry is a budget-friendly way to get onto Casco Bay. Bring some friends, some snacks, something to drink, and recline back on the red bench seats. Your destination? Who cares! Cruises include the Sunset Run, which departs nightly at 5:45 p.m. The equally scenic Mailboat Run takes to the waters at 10 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. through Sept. 7. And early birds will appreciate the 5:05 a.m. Sunrise on the Bay run. Check out the music cruises, too. Tickets are $16 for adults for scenic cruises, prices vary for music cruises. Staff photo by Doug Jones Take the ferry to dinner: Island dining in Casco Bay - Portland’s offshore restaurants offer casual to fine fare

    Ride the Casco Bay Lines ferry

    Destinations are nice. But taking the Casco Bay Lines ferry for no reason other than to ride the Casco Bay Lines ferry is equally swell. The ferry is a budget-friendly way to get onto Casco Bay. Bring some friends, some snacks, something to drink, and recline back on the red bench seats. Your destination? Who cares! Cruises include the Sunset Run, which departs nightly at 5:45 p.m. The equally scenic Mailboat Run takes to the waters at 10 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. through Sept. 7. And early birds will appreciate the 5:05 a.m. Sunrise on the Bay run. Check out the music cruises, too. Tickets are $16 for adults for scenic cruises, prices vary for music cruises. Staff photo by Doug Jones

    Take the ferry to dinner: Island dining in Casco Bay - Portland’s offshore restaurants offer casual to fine fare

  • Fling yourself from a rope swing Thank heavens for people who tie ropes to sturdy tree branches that hang over Maine's rivers, lakes and ponds. Who are these magical folks who so generously offer rope swings to the world? We may never know - but we can say "thank you" by grabbing hold of those ropes, taking a leap and flinging ourselves into the water with flair. (Rope swinging tip: Let GO. Don't procrastinate! Else you risk swinging back...possibly into tree, pile of rocks, or something likewise painful.) (A rope swing over Cobbossee Stream in Gardiner. Staff photo by Andy Molloy Try Buxton's Pleasant Point Park to find a series of river rocks perfect for leaping, as well as at least one rope swing.

    Fling yourself from a rope swing

    Thank heavens for people who tie ropes to sturdy tree branches that hang over Maine's rivers, lakes and ponds. Who are these magical folks who so generously offer rope swings to the world? We may never know - but we can say "thank you" by grabbing hold of those ropes, taking a leap and flinging ourselves into the water with flair. (Rope swinging tip: Let GO. Don't procrastinate! Else you risk swinging back...possibly into tree, pile of rocks, or something likewise painful.) (A rope swing over Cobbossee Stream in Gardiner. Staff photo by Andy Molloy

    Try Buxton's Pleasant Point Park to find a series of river rocks perfect for leaping, as well as at least one rope swing.

  • Take yourself out to a Sea Dogs game Baseball and summer go together like ice cream and chocolate chip cookies (which, for the record, you can get together at Hadlock Field. It's the Sea Dog Biscuit, and it's delicious). Going to at least one Sea Dogs game is a summer requirement for many, although I know some folks who've never been. How? How is this?! Tickets are $7-15 Staff photo by Gabe Souza See the Sea Dogs: Check the Sea Dogs schedule via milb.com

    Take yourself out to a Sea Dogs game

    Baseball and summer go together like ice cream and chocolate chip cookies (which, for the record, you can get together at Hadlock Field. It's the Sea Dog Biscuit, and it's delicious). Going to at least one Sea Dogs game is a summer requirement for many, although I know some folks who've never been. How? How is this?! Tickets are $7-15 Staff photo by Gabe Souza

    See the Sea Dogs: Check the Sea Dogs schedule via milb.com

  • Waterslide at the water park The ocean is a great place to go for a dip. But you know what the ocean doesn't have? A Liquid Lightning continuous water slide. Water parks offer the cooling-off pleasures of water with the glee-inspiring addition of slides, tubes, and ginormous overhead buckets that spill over at regular intervals. And no worries about sharks! Close to Portland, check out Aquaboggin Water Park and Funtown Splashtown, both in Saco. Which water park is best for you? Photo by Heather Steeves We did a comparison: Splashtown v. Aquaboggan: Which Saco water park has the best rides, slides, bathrooms

    Waterslide at the water park

    The ocean is a great place to go for a dip. But you know what the ocean doesn't have? A Liquid Lightning continuous water slide. Water parks offer the cooling-off pleasures of water with the glee-inspiring addition of slides, tubes, and ginormous overhead buckets that spill over at regular intervals. And no worries about sharks! Close to Portland, check out Aquaboggin Water Park and Funtown Splashtown, both in Saco. Which water park is best for you? Photo by Heather Steeves

    We did a comparison: Splashtown v. Aquaboggan: Which Saco water park has the best rides, slides, bathrooms

  • Go on a mini Maine adventure Get out of dodge (at least for a little while) with a mini adventure. These excursions can be done in a day – sometimes an afternoon – and will hopefully lead you to places you’ve never been, like rock hounding in Auburn, fort exploring in Pemaquid, paddling in Poland, flea market and film watching in Brunswick and more. Photo by Michael Seamans Check out all the Maine mini adventures

    Go on a mini Maine adventure

    Get out of dodge (at least for a little while) with a mini adventure. These excursions can be done in a day – sometimes an afternoon – and will hopefully lead you to places you’ve never been, like rock hounding in Auburn, fort exploring in Pemaquid, paddling in Poland, flea market and film watching in Brunswick and more. Photo by Michael Seamans

    Check out all the Maine mini adventures

  • Hang out in a park Because picnic! Frisbee! Blanket lounging! Grass! We're often lured to sandy areas in the summer, but a carpet of green and the shade of a tree make good companions on hot days, too. Pack a picnic lunch and rope in a friend for some down time in a local park any time. Press Herald file photo

    Hang out in a park

    Because picnic! Frisbee! Blanket lounging! Grass! We're often lured to sandy areas in the summer, but a carpet of green and the shade of a tree make good companions on hot days, too. Pack a picnic lunch and rope in a friend for some down time in a local park any time. Press Herald file photo

  • Climb aboard for a summer sail You know those gorgeous sailboats you often spot catching the wind in Casco Bay? Pretty, right? But have you been on one this summer? Is it even summer if you haven't? Check out Portland Schooner Company's day sails aboard Bagheera or Wendameen. Or how about taking a wine class on a sailboat? Or a sunset acoustic sail with local musicians? Check out the special events with Maine Sailing Adventures aboard Frances. Both Portland Schooner Company and Maine Sailing Adventures operate from Maine State Pier. Day sail tickets run about $38-$42. Staff photo by Gordon Chibroski/Press Herald file photo Day sails: Stunning water views (and seals, wine, islands & lobsters) with these boat tours

    Climb aboard for a summer sail

    You know those gorgeous sailboats you often spot catching the wind in Casco Bay? Pretty, right? But have you been on one this summer? Is it even summer if you haven't? Check out Portland Schooner Company's day sails aboard Bagheera or Wendameen. Or how about taking a wine class on a sailboat? Or a sunset acoustic sail with local musicians? Check out the special events with Maine Sailing Adventures aboard Frances. Both Portland Schooner Company and Maine Sailing Adventures operate from Maine State Pier. Day sail tickets run about $38-$42. Staff photo by Gordon Chibroski/Press Herald file photo

    Day sails: Stunning water views (and seals, wine, islands & lobsters) with these boat tours

  • Swim & splash in a swimmin' hole Spending an afternoon cooling off in a local swimming hole is a summer staple. And while it's sometimes hard to know where the best ones are (some folks understandably want to keep their favorite spots a secret), there are a few popular water spots we're comfortable sharing. Where there's a rope swing (see aforementioned rope swiningin' suggestions), there's a swimming hole. But the two aren't mutually exclusive. Staff photo by Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Press In Kingfield, just north of Farmington, there's a rocky swimming hole on the other side of the falls. Swimmers can park behind Longfellow's Restaurant. Also in Western Maine lies Coos Canyon, Byron's Happy Gorge conveniently set off the road to Rangeley (Route 17). There are three natural swimming holes in front of the park, and waterfalls above and below that. Cliff jumping is common, and snorkeling a favorite. More swimming holes: The Best Swimming Holes in Maine via Yahoo

    Swim & splash in a swimmin' hole

    Spending an afternoon cooling off in a local swimming hole is a summer staple. And while it's sometimes hard to know where the best ones are (some folks understandably want to keep their favorite spots a secret), there are a few popular water spots we're comfortable sharing. Where there's a rope swing (see aforementioned rope swiningin' suggestions), there's a swimming hole. But the two aren't mutually exclusive. Staff photo by Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Press
    In Kingfield, just north of Farmington, there's a rocky swimming hole on the other side of the falls. Swimmers can park behind Longfellow's Restaurant.
    Also in Western Maine lies Coos Canyon, Byron's Happy Gorge conveniently set off the road to Rangeley (Route 17). There are three natural swimming holes in front of the park, and waterfalls above and below that. Cliff jumping is common, and snorkeling a favorite.

    More swimming holes: The Best Swimming Holes in Maine via Yahoo

  • Dine on an island One of the cool things about living in, or visiting, Portland is that as amazing as the city is, it’s so easy to escape it — by water. Hopping on a Casco Bay Lines ferry to spend a day on one of the outlying islands can make you feel like you’ve been far, far away. And, of course, there's no better time to escape to a windy island than when it's sunny and hot. Photo courtesy of Chebeague Island Inn Island dining in Casco Bay: Portland’s offshore restaurants offer casual to fine fare

    Dine on an island

    One of the cool things about living in, or visiting, Portland is that as amazing as the city is, it’s so easy to escape it — by water. Hopping on a Casco Bay Lines ferry to spend a day on one of the outlying islands can make you feel like you’ve been far, far away. And, of course, there's no better time to escape to a windy island than when it's sunny and hot. Photo courtesy of Chebeague Island Inn

    Island dining in Casco Bay: Portland’s offshore restaurants offer casual to fine fare

  • Putt it up with a round of mini golf Golfers start golfing as soon as a flick of green is visible beneath the melting snow. The rest of us? We'll pick up a mini-round when the weather's perfect. The great thing about miniature golf - aside from the neon balls, entertaining obstacles, and heightened hole-in-one potential - is the fact that you won't spend half your afternoon hunting a lost ball in the woods. True, there aren't any fun golf carts, but there is usually ice cream nearby! (Rich Beauchesne/AP photo) Find a mini golf course: Swing, toss, putt: Great Maine spots for mini golf, disc golf & batting cages

    Putt it up with a round of mini golf

    Golfers start golfing as soon as a flick of green is visible beneath the melting snow. The rest of us? We'll pick up a mini-round when the weather's perfect. The great thing about miniature golf - aside from the neon balls, entertaining obstacles, and heightened hole-in-one potential - is the fact that you won't spend half your afternoon hunting a lost ball in the woods. True, there aren't any fun golf carts, but there is usually ice cream nearby! (Rich Beauchesne/AP photo)

    Find a mini golf course: Swing, toss, putt: Great Maine spots for mini golf, disc golf & batting cages

  • Build a fairy house on Mackworth Island Building a fairy house sounds like a kid thing. And it absolutely is. Kids get a kick out of building a fairy-sized house for a miniature friend they can't see. But it's cool for adults, too. Go ahead, scavenge for sticks, shells, leaves, and pine needles and see what you can construct. Think you're a better builder than a fifth grader? Head out to Mackworth Island in Falmouth (the road to the island is just off Route 1) and show the fairies what you're made of. Photo by Shannon Bryan More about it: Mackworth Island permanent Fairy Houses Village via fairyhouses.com

    Build a fairy house on Mackworth Island

    Building a fairy house sounds like a kid thing. And it absolutely is. Kids get a kick out of building a fairy-sized house for a miniature friend they can't see. But it's cool for adults, too. Go ahead, scavenge for sticks, shells, leaves, and pine needles and see what you can construct. Think you're a better builder than a fifth grader? Head out to Mackworth Island in Falmouth (the road to the island is just off Route 1) and show the fairies what you're made of. Photo by Shannon Bryan

    More about it: Mackworth Island permanent Fairy Houses Village via fairyhouses.com

  • Hit the patio & drink outside Cocktails, beer, wine, what-have-you. One of summer's perks is outdoor drinking (responsibly, of course!). From beachside patios to outdoor seating that's perfect for people-watching, Maine has plenty of places to imbibe outside. Staff photo by Shawn Patrick Ouellette Find a patio: Patio season! 50+ outdoor decks to drink in the sun

    Hit the patio & drink outside

    Cocktails, beer, wine, what-have-you. One of summer's perks is outdoor drinking (responsibly, of course!). From beachside patios to outdoor seating that's perfect for people-watching, Maine has plenty of places to imbibe outside. Staff photo by Shawn Patrick Ouellette

    Find a patio: Patio season! 50+ outdoor decks to drink in the sun

  • Pick/rake your own blueberries Maybe you planned on picking your own strawberries this year but, like every year, strawberry season came and went in a flash. It happens. But late summer is when blueberry season hits, which means you can stop kicking yourself for missing out. I'm pretty sure that blueberries you've picked yourself taste better, too. Libby & Sons U-Picks in Limerick is my personal favorite (do not leave before stocking up on their amazing blueberry donuts. I tend to eat at least three just on the drive back to Portland). But you can't lose wherever you go. Ripe for the picking. Staff photo by John Patriquinr Find a blueberry farm: Maine U-Pick farms and orchards via pickyourown.org

    Pick/rake your own blueberries

    Maybe you planned on picking your own strawberries this year but, like every year, strawberry season came and went in a flash. It happens. But late summer is when blueberry season hits, which means you can stop kicking yourself for missing out. I'm pretty sure that blueberries you've picked yourself taste better, too. Libby & Sons U-Picks in Limerick is my personal favorite (do not leave before stocking up on their amazing blueberry donuts. I tend to eat at least three just on the drive back to Portland). But you can't lose wherever you go. Ripe for the picking. Staff photo by John Patriquinr

    Find a blueberry farm: Maine U-Pick farms and orchards via pickyourown.org

  • Ride a bike on Peaks Island A summer bike ride anywhere in Maine is a good idea (except on I-95.). But a pedal-driven cruise around Peaks Island is one of those annual summer excursions I always make sure to squeeze in. You can BYOBike or rent one on the island from Brad's Bike Rental and Repair on Island Ave. (just bang a left on Island Ave. after getting off the ferry). It's an easy and scenic coastal ride made even better with stops at the military battery on the Island's east side (look for the sign amid the foliage) and plenty of time spent climbing on the rocks. Don't worry, the bike won't mind waiting. And if you have time to grab a drink at the Cockeyed Gull, The Peaks Island House or The Inn on Peaks Island, then do! (Portland Press Herald file photo from way back in 1997!) Read more: Maine Mini Adventure: Ride bikes, explore and take in the views on Peaks Island

    Ride a bike on Peaks Island

    A summer bike ride anywhere in Maine is a good idea (except on I-95.). But a pedal-driven cruise around Peaks Island is one of those annual summer excursions I always make sure to squeeze in. You can BYOBike or rent one on the island from Brad's Bike Rental and Repair on Island Ave. (just bang a left on Island Ave. after getting off the ferry). It's an easy and scenic coastal ride made even better with stops at the military battery on the Island's east side (look for the sign amid the foliage) and plenty of time spent climbing on the rocks. Don't worry, the bike won't mind waiting. And if you have time to grab a drink at the Cockeyed Gull, The Peaks Island House or The Inn on Peaks Island, then do! (Portland Press Herald file photo from way back in 1997!)

    Read more: Maine Mini Adventure: Ride bikes, explore and take in the views on Peaks Island

  • Eat Ice Cream. Lots of it. This doesn't really require much explanation, does it. It's summer. Eat ice cream. And lots of it. If you're feeling ice cream adventurous, skip the traditional and try something new. Press Herald file photo Get your licks in Southern Maine at these ice cream stands

    Eat Ice Cream. Lots of it.

    This doesn't really require much explanation, does it. It's summer. Eat ice cream. And lots of it. If you're feeling ice cream adventurous, skip the traditional and try something new. Press Herald file photo

    Get your licks in Southern Maine at these ice cream stands

Paddle somewhere wonderful Who doesn't love a good paddle? Even if you don't have the luxury of owning your own canoe or kayak, there are plenty of places to rent one. Then you can paddle 'til your heart's content. Or, you know, until your time runs out and you need to bring back the boat. The Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center (on Pine Point Road in Scarborough) rents canoes and kayaks for easy-going paddles along the winding marsh waters. They also do guided tours during the day and under the full moon. Staff photo by Shawn Patrick Ouellette Great places to paddle: 10 easy paddles in southern-ish Maine: Calm waters to explore by kayak, canoe or SUP. Need to rent? Where to rent a kayak, canoe or paddleboardEat Pier Fries in Old Orchard Beach For me, summer officially arrives in Maine on the day I eat my first pier fries of the season. Admittedly, that's usually in April, when Pier French Fries At Old Orchard Beach opens up on weekends. I love summer, can you blame me for being impatient? These fries can be loaded up with salt and vinegar and ketchup and devoured in front of the Atlantic. Two warnings: You will long for them come February. And please, eat your pier fries after you hit the rides at Palace Playland. Staff photo by John PatriquinEat dinner at a farm Eating local is a great idea for lots of reasons, but maybe No. 1 is that it's so much tastier and fresher. This summer try eating as local as local gets: on the farm where the food was grown or raised. Watch animals graze, the sun set and the grasses blow in the wind while you eat some of the best food of your life. Photo courtesy of Emilie Inc.Eat lobster. At a lobster shack Sure, sure. Lobster doesn't seem like such a fleeting summer thing when you live in Maine year-round. But the opporunity to crack one of those puppies open at a lobster shack, while sitting on a picnic table, with the sea sitting idly nearby and two dozen gulls taking turns diving for your fries...well, that's a summer-only sort of experience. The Lobster Shack at Two Lights is a popular spot near Portland, but there's no shortage of shacks up and down the coast. Staff photo by Gregory RecSee an outdoor concert Live music, outside, because it's beautiful out there and Mother Nature has amazing acoustics. There are a host of free outdoor concerts around Southern Maine. You bring the blanket, some snacks, and someone you really like to share the evening with. A 2013 concert at L.L. Bean. So many concerts this summer. LL Bean Free Summer Concerts | 7:30 p.m. Saturday (not every Saturday) through Sept. 5 | Freeport |Visit one of Maine's most beautiful places Maine’s a beaut. Ain’t no doubt about it. She’s smart, too, and has quite the personality, but we can’t help stopping to stare at her rocky coast, cascading falls, and miles of mountaintops. No matter where you go in this state, there’s something unique to gawk at. But summer — that's when she's at her prime. Staff photo by Fred Field Some stunning ideas: Maine's most beautiful places. We also have a list of great places to camp on the coast if you want to spend the night.Build a castle It's essential: When you go to the beach, you must build the castle you want to live in but can't afford to build IRL with bricks and mortar ... or wood. Beaches have plenty of sand for this purpose, so once you have a blueprint, you'll need to find a beach. Staff Photo by Gordon Chibroski If your dog wants to come, too: 13 dog-friendly summer beaches in Maine from York to Camden Some beaches close-ish to Portland: 7 of the most beautiful beaches within 45 minutes of PortlandCatch a movie at the drive-in Classic. That's what drive-ins are. Netflix and Hulu are fine for winter or those night when you can't sleep until you've watched the entire season of Master Chef. But the drive-in is the best summer movie-watching experience. Try the Saco Drive-In, Bridgton Twin Drive-In, and Skowhegan Drive-In Staff photo by Pouya Diana To the drive-in! Check theaters and showtimes via mainetoday.comHike something Maybe you want to tackle Mount Washington or Katahdin. Maybe something a little more casual is more your speed. Whatever the distance or elevation, get on a trail this summer. Sure, hiking's great in the fall and even winter, too, but we think summer isn't quite summer without a least one good, sweaty hike. Photo by Carey Kish You can hike these: 10 easy Maine hikes anyone can do - Great views for the casual hikerRide the Casco Bay Lines ferry Destinations are nice. But taking the Casco Bay Lines ferry for no reason other than to ride the Casco Bay Lines ferry is equally swell. The ferry is a budget-friendly way to get onto Casco Bay. Bring some friends, some snacks, something to drink, and recline back on the red bench seats. Your destination? Who cares! Cruises include the Sunset Run, which departs nightly at 5:45 p.m. The equally scenic Mailboat Run takes to the waters at 10 a.m. and 2:15 p.m. through Sept. 7. And early birds will appreciate the 5:05 a.m. Sunrise on the Bay run. Check out the music cruises, too. Tickets are $16 for adults for scenic cruises, prices vary for music cruises. Staff photo by Doug Jones Take the ferry to dinner: Island dining in Casco Bay - Portland’s offshore restaurants offer casual to fine fareFling yourself from a rope swing Thank heavens for people who tie ropes to sturdy tree branches that hang over Maine's rivers, lakes and ponds. Who are these magical folks who so generously offer rope swings to the world? We may never know - but we can say "thank you" by grabbing hold of those ropes, taking a leap and flinging ourselves into the water with flair. (Rope swinging tip: Let GO. Don't procrastinate! Else you risk swinging back...possibly into tree, pile of rocks, or something likewise painful.) (A rope swing over Cobbossee Stream in Gardiner. Staff photo by Andy Molloy Try Buxton's Pleasant Point Park to find a series of river rocks perfect for leaping, as well as at least one rope swing.Take yourself out to a Sea Dogs game Baseball and summer go together like ice cream and chocolate chip cookies (which, for the record, you can get together at Hadlock Field. It's the Sea Dog Biscuit, and it's delicious). Going to at least one Sea Dogs game is a summer requirement for many, although I know some folks who've never been. How? How is this?! Tickets are $7-15 Staff photo by Gabe Souza See the Sea Dogs: Check the Sea Dogs schedule via milb.comWaterslide at the water park The ocean is a great place to go for a dip. But you know what the ocean doesn't have? A Liquid Lightning continuous water slide. Water parks offer the cooling-off pleasures of water with the glee-inspiring addition of slides, tubes, and ginormous overhead buckets that spill over at regular intervals. And no worries about sharks! Close to Portland, check out Aquaboggin Water Park and Funtown Splashtown, both in Saco. Which water park is best for you? Photo by Heather Steeves We did a comparison: Splashtown v. Aquaboggan: Which Saco water park has the best rides, slides, bathroomsGo on a mini Maine adventure Get out of dodge (at least for a little while) with a mini adventure. These excursions can be done in a day – sometimes an afternoon – and will hopefully lead you to places you’ve never been, like rock hounding in Auburn, fort exploring in Pemaquid, paddling in Poland, flea market and film watching in Brunswick and more. Photo by Michael Seamans Check out all the Maine mini adventuresHang out in a park Because picnic! Frisbee! Blanket lounging! Grass! We're often lured to sandy areas in the summer, but a carpet of green and the shade of a tree make good companions on hot days, too. Pack a picnic lunch and rope in a friend for some down time in a local park any time. Press Herald file photoClimb aboard for a summer sail You know those gorgeous sailboats you often spot catching the wind in Casco Bay? Pretty, right? But have you been on one this summer? Is it even summer if you haven't? Check out Portland Schooner Company's day sails aboard Bagheera or Wendameen. Or how about taking a wine class on a sailboat? Or a sunset acoustic sail with local musicians? Check out the special events with Maine Sailing Adventures aboard Frances. Both Portland Schooner Company and Maine Sailing Adventures operate from Maine State Pier. Day sail tickets run about $38-$42. Staff photo by Gordon Chibroski/Press Herald file photo Day sails: Stunning water views (and seals, wine, islands & lobsters) with these boat toursSwim & splash in a swimmin' hole Spending an afternoon cooling off in a local swimming hole is a summer staple. And while it's sometimes hard to know where the best ones are (some folks understandably want to keep their favorite spots a secret), there are a few popular water spots we're comfortable sharing. Where there's a rope swing (see aforementioned rope swiningin' suggestions), there's a swimming hole. But the two aren't mutually exclusive. Staff photo by Shawn Patrick Ouellette/Press In Kingfield, just north of Farmington, there's a rocky swimming hole on the other side of the falls. Swimmers can park behind Longfellow's Restaurant. Also in Western Maine lies Coos Canyon, Byron's Happy Gorge conveniently set off the road to Rangeley (Route 17). There are three natural swimming holes in front of the park, and waterfalls above and below that. Cliff jumping is common, and snorkeling a favorite. More swimming holes: The Best Swimming Holes in Maine via YahooDine on an island One of the cool things about living in, or visiting, Portland is that as amazing as the city is, it’s so easy to escape it — by water. Hopping on a Casco Bay Lines ferry to spend a day on one of the outlying islands can make you feel like you’ve been far, far away. And, of course, there's no better time to escape to a windy island than when it's sunny and hot. Photo courtesy of Chebeague Island Inn Island dining in Casco Bay: Portland’s offshore restaurants offer casual to fine farePutt it up with a round of mini golf Golfers start golfing as soon as a flick of green is visible beneath the melting snow. The rest of us? We'll pick up a mini-round when the weather's perfect. The great thing about miniature golf - aside from the neon balls, entertaining obstacles, and heightened hole-in-one potential - is the fact that you won't spend half your afternoon hunting a lost ball in the woods. True, there aren't any fun golf carts, but there is usually ice cream nearby! (Rich Beauchesne/AP photo) Find a mini golf course: Swing, toss, putt: Great Maine spots for mini golf, disc golf & batting cagesBuild a fairy house on Mackworth Island Building a fairy house sounds like a kid thing. And it absolutely is. Kids get a kick out of building a fairy-sized house for a miniature friend they can't see. But it's cool for adults, too. Go ahead, scavenge for sticks, shells, leaves, and pine needles and see what you can construct. Think you're a better builder than a fifth grader? Head out to Mackworth Island in Falmouth (the road to the island is just off Route 1) and show the fairies what you're made of. Photo by Shannon Bryan More about it: Mackworth Island permanent Fairy Houses Village via fairyhouses.comHit the patio & drink outside Cocktails, beer, wine, what-have-you. One of summer's perks is outdoor drinking (responsibly, of course!). From beachside patios to outdoor seating that's perfect for people-watching, Maine has plenty of places to imbibe outside. Staff photo by Shawn Patrick Ouellette Find a patio: Patio season! 50+ outdoor decks to drink in the sunPick/rake your own blueberries Maybe you planned on picking your own strawberries this year but, like every year, strawberry season came and went in a flash. It happens. But late summer is when blueberry season hits, which means you can stop kicking yourself for missing out. I'm pretty sure that blueberries you've picked yourself taste better, too. Libby & Sons U-Picks in Limerick is my personal favorite (do not leave before stocking up on their amazing blueberry donuts. I tend to eat at least three just on the drive back to Portland). But you can't lose wherever you go. Ripe for the picking. Staff photo by John Patriquinr Find a blueberry farm: Maine U-Pick farms and orchards via pickyourown.orgRide a bike on Peaks Island A summer bike ride anywhere in Maine is a good idea (except on I-95.). But a pedal-driven cruise around Peaks Island is one of those annual summer excursions I always make sure to squeeze in. You can BYOBike or rent one on the island from Brad's Bike Rental and Repair on Island Ave. (just bang a left on Island Ave. after getting off the ferry). It's an easy and scenic coastal ride made even better with stops at the military battery on the Island's east side (look for the sign amid the foliage) and plenty of time spent climbing on the rocks. Don't worry, the bike won't mind waiting. And if you have time to grab a drink at the Cockeyed Gull, The Peaks Island House or The Inn on Peaks Island, then do! (Portland Press Herald file photo from way back in 1997!) Read more: Maine Mini Adventure: Ride bikes, explore and take in the views on Peaks IslandEat Ice Cream. Lots of it. This doesn't really require much explanation, does it. It's summer. Eat ice cream. And lots of it. If you're feeling ice cream adventurous, skip the traditional and try something new. Press Herald file photo Get your licks in Southern Maine at these ice cream stands

 

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