Each morning, Maine is the first state in the US to be embraced by the sun’s warmth. Its easternmost location makes it a beacon of brightness for the rest of the country.
My first excursion to Maine was during the summer before high school when I embarked on a rigorous wilderness journey through Acadia. I immediately fell under Maine's spell right upon crossing the border into this surreal state. Even I-95 is beautiful and lined by lush vegetation. My enchantment with this stunning state has manifested itself in my choice to spend my four college years tucked away in this northern nest. I couldn’t be happier with my choice to make a home for myself in Maine, and I’ve uncovered more of its wonders in my past few years up here.
1. Stunning Seasons.
In Maine, each season has such a distinct scent. In autumn, I'm enveloped in the earthy aroma of red and yellow leaves gathered at my feet. The crisp barrenness of the winter's air fills my lungs with an energizing coldness. Nothing can compare to the giddy liberation of breathing in spring's pine and pollen breeze. And I swear, I can smell the sun's rays as they kiss the grassy, green fields on a summer morning in Maine.
2. Nezinscot Farm
A short trip along the winding roads brings me to a small farm nestled in Turner, Maine. The bleating baby goats love attention and affection. The open farmland surrounded by the thick forest is a captivating sight.
3. Forage Market
This place is the organic Mecca in Lewiston, Maine. It embodies a very distinct form of alternative culture defined by wholesome food, good music and crunchy clothes. I find it charming how my friends and I are always served our decadent sandwiches on mismatching plates. The intoxicating scent of freshly baking bread always puts me in a trance.
4. Mount Desert Island
This tourist hotspot certain lives up to its critically acclaimed status. Bar Harbor's charming marinas offer loads of quintessential Maine activities like whale watching and lobster fishing. This island is also the home to one of America's greatest national parks. Visiting Acadia is definitely bucket list material.
5. Portland
The largest city in Maine definitely has a lot to show for itself. From the most ridiculously delicious lobster you could ever imagine to independent clothing shops on the cutting edge of fashion, Portland has it all.
6. Sugarloaf and Sunday River
Skiing in Maine does not receive nearly as much recognition as it deserves. We have some incredible mountains that certainly see quite a bit of snow. Only in Maine can you end your day of tearing up the slopes with an apres-ski fresh lobster roll.
7. Literary Significance
Henry David Thoreau documented his own Maine extravaganza in "The Maine Woods," and I'm interested in embarking upon my own natural adventure. Other big names such as Henry Longfellow, Harriet Beecher Stowe and Stephen King all hail from this stellar state. There is clearly a wealth of inspiration stored in Maine.
8. L.L.Bean Flagship Store
