7 Tourist Traps in Maine That Are Still Worth a Visit

Over the past few years, more and more people keep pouring into Maine during the summer to experience everything the state has to offer. Because of the uptick in tourism, there are new restaurants, shops and activities popping up each year to entice more people to visit.

While new places to check out may be exciting, there's a handful of old standards that are still worth a visit for the first time or again.

DiMillo's Floating Restaurant in Portland

Stroll down Commercial Street in Portland during the summer and you'll see a bunch of people coming in and out of one of Portland's most unique restaurants. Even after all these years, DiMillo's Floating Restaurant is still a cool spot to grab a delicious app, seafood entree, or happy hour beverage.

The Pier in Old Orchard Beach

There are several different reasons to visit Old Orchard Beach in the summer. While the sprawling beach is the crown jewel, The Pier remains a favorite because it offers unmatched views of the coastline and a fun atmosphere filled with food, drink and live entertainment. It's been a tradition for a reason.

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay

While the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens signature event 'Gardens Aglow' draws in massive crowds each winter, a visit to the gardens in the summer is worth every bit of your time. Spending an afternoon smelling the ocean air and enjoying the largest botanical garden in New England is never a miss.

The Desert in Maine in Freeport

What was once the definition of a tourist trap has transformed into a delightful day trip. The Desert of Maine has made a lot of improvements in recent years, including adding a miniature golf course, updating their welcoming center and making improvements to their campground. Shop half the day in Freeport and spend the other half checking out this unique attraction.

Marginal Way in Ogunquit

There's a lot of hustle and bustle in some of Maine's smaller coastal towns throughout the summer. That would include Ogunquit, that is ripe with people looking to shop, dine and have fun. But if you need a break to simply enjoy the natural beauty of Maine, Marginal Way is the place to do it.

Perry's Nut House in Belfast

With origins that are nearly a century old, Perry's Nut House has become an institution in downeast Maine. Some like to refer to it as a gift shop, although their selection of candy and snacks keeps bringing travelers in. Perry's Nut House is an adventure and if you've got a little time to kill, it's absolutely worth the visit.

Red's Eats in Wiscasset

The little roadside shack that could. People have been lining up for years to grab a classic Maine lobster roll from Red's Eats. Many natives of the state will say that's for tourists, but so what? Part of the fun is waiting in line, listening to the seagulls and watching traffic pass by.