10 Things Tourists Get WRONG in Maine (Don’t Make These Mistakes!)

Transcript

00:00Planning a trip to Maine? Before you pack your bags, let's make sure you don't fall into the

00:05most common traps. Here are 10 things tourists often get wrong when they visit the Pine Tree

00:11State, and how you can avoid them for the best trip possible. First up, it's time to bust the

00:16lobster myth. Maine is famous for fresh lobster, of course, but you're missing out if you stop there.

00:23Dig into local steamer clams, treat yourself to a classic blueberry pie made with Maine's wild

00:28fruits, or snack on a real whoopie pie, the state's beloved cakey dessert. And if you're feeling

00:34adventurous, sip on a can of Moxie. Maine's one-of-a-kind soda with a flavor that's, well,

00:40a rite of passage for locals and visitors alike. Another common mistake? Only exploring Portland.

00:47While this small city packs a big punch with its craft food and art scene, there's so much more to

00:52see beyond its cobblestone charm. Head up the coast to the scenic harbor town of Camden for mountain and

00:58ocean views. Visit Bar Harbor to experience the iconic beauty of Acadia National Park,

01:04or discover the rugged working waterfront in Rockland. If you're up for a real adventure,

01:10drive farther into the state toward Lubeck, the easternmost point in the U.S., or spend time in

01:16the wild and tranquil woods near Moosehead Lake. But before you start exploring, make sure you speak

01:21the language, or at least the place names. Nothing marks a tourist faster than mispronouncing

01:27iconic spots. For example, the border town of Calais is not pronounced like the French city,

01:32but simply call us. And it's not banger for Bangor, but Bangor. A little effort goes a long way in

01:40winning over friendly locals. Next, don't let tiny creatures ruin your summer fun. Maine's black flies

01:46and ticks are no joke. If you're hiking inland or heading to the woods, bring lightweight,

01:53long sleeves, and some serious bug spray. Not only will you save yourself from itching and scratching,

01:59you'll stay safer from tick-borne illnesses. Many picture Maine as endless sandy beaches,

02:04but that's not the reality. The coastline here is dotted with dramatic granite cliffs,

02:09pine forests right to the shore, and rocky coves. Though there are beautiful stretches of sand,

02:14like Ogunquit. It's the wild, rugged coast that makes Maine truly special. Don't underestimate the

02:21size of Maine. It is here. Driving from Portland to Acadia National Park takes hours, with winding

02:27highways and small towns along the way. Distances can be deceptive, so plan your journey in advance.

02:34And don't try to squeeze too many spots into one day, which brings us to another big mistake.

02:39Not booking your stay ahead of time. Maine is a hot spot during summer, and especially when fall

02:45foliage transforms the landscape. Hotels and inns near Acadia and the coast fill up fast.

02:52Secure your bed before you hit the road to avoid last-minute stress. And while Acadia is an absolute

02:57must-visit, it's not the only outdoor gem. Baxter State Park offers wilderness and mountaintop climbs.

03:04The Rangely Lakes region is a boaters' and anglers' paradise. And the Appalachian Trail slices through

03:10some of the wildest parts of the state. When it comes to packing, don't go overboard with heavy

03:15jackets in summer, or trust that it'll always be warm. Maine's weather can switch from foggy mornings

03:21to sunny afternoons to chilly evenings, sometimes in a matter of hours. Bring layers and waterproofs,

03:27and you'll be ready for anything. Most importantly, don't rush. Maine moves at its own pace. Relax,

03:35swap stories with a lobster man, watch the fog roll in, and let yourself slow down. The magic of Maine

03:41is in its unhurried moments and welcoming people. If you love good food, unspoiled nature, and tranquil

03:48vibes, Maine is the place for you. Sidestep these 10 tourist mistakes, and you're in for an unforgettable

03:54adventure. Ready for more insider tips? Like, share, and subscribe for all things Maine from a local's

04:01perspective.