6 Days, 6 States – Maine

Travel New England This Summer with Our Unique Guide: If you’re still trying to make summer vacation plans, or just want to visit someplace new, we’ve got great getaway ideas for families and couples in all six New England states.

Summer at the Ski Slopes   Carrabassett Valley, Maine
Who’d have thought Sugarloaf Mountain Ski Resort, a ski destination, could offer so much summer fun? There’s no skiing, but there’s still plenty to check out on the slopes. A scenic chair lift affords great views of Maine’s mountains. For the more adventurous, check out Sugarloaf’s zip line course. Kayak and paddleboard rentals and a guided Segway tour are also offered. (Top: Sugarloaf Zip Line: Photo courtesy Sugarloaf.)
Sugarloaf.com
(207) 237-2000

Schooner Tours from Bailey Island   Bailey Island, Maine
The schooner Alert holds up to 28 passengers, making it great for everything from a family outing to a romantic getaway or a private celebration. Choose a two-, four- or six-hour sailing cruise around Bailey Island in Casco Bay, near Freeport. Alternatively, try out an Island Adventures trip; sail up to one of the many islands offshore, stretch your legs and explore.
SeaEscapeCottages.com
(207) 841-9125

Fairy Houses Village on Mackworth Island   Falmouth, Maine 
The easy-walking Mackworth Island State Park Trail leads to Fairy Houses Village, where “fairy homes” have been constructed out of natural materials. Adults and kids will get a kick out of exploring the homes and adding their own magical creations to the village.
MaineTrailFinder.com 

L.L. Bean Summer in the Park   Freeport, Maine 
Throughout the summer, head to Freeport, Maine, for The Freeport Community Market, Concerts, KidsFest and Dog Days of August.
LLBean.com/Concerts
(877) 755-2326

Old Orchard Beach   Old Orchard Beach, Maine
This is a one-stop shop for summers in Maine, offering something for everyone. The kids will love the games and rides at the beachfront Palace Playland. Head to the pier for shopping, dining, dancing and fireworks. Then, of course, there are 7 miles of sandy beach to enjoy all day long. Be sure to grab a box — or two — of old-fashioned “pier fries,” loaded with salt, vinegar and ketchup. Our mouths are watering already.
OldOrchardBeachMaine.com

Drive-in theaters   Saco and Bridgton, Maine 
Throw it back and get outside at one of Maine’s drive-in theaters. Saco Drive-In offers movies every weekend through the summer, so load up the car with drinks, snacks and blankets, pull up and relax. If you’re headed toward the White Mountains, check out Bridgton Twin Drive-In, which has two screens, retro and modern films, and a snack stand.
TheSacoDriveIn.com
(207) 286-3200
Facebook.com/Bridgton-Twin-Drive-In-Theatre
(207) 647-8666

For our complete Summer Travel Guide, pick up the July/Aug issue of Merrimack Valley Magazine on newsstands now.