The Most Beautiful Town in Maine, Ranked

Voting rules: Choose the town you think is the most beautiful!

Updated on May 3, 2024 06:20

Maine, with its serene landscapes and picturesque towns, offers a unique charm that is often celebrated in discussions and debates. Identifying which town stands out as the most beautiful can be a delightful yet challenging task. This is because beauty is subjective, and what appeals to one person might not impress another. Hence, having a system where individuals can vote for their preferred town provides a democratic way of establishing a widely accepted ranking. The purpose of this interactive rating is not only to spark conversation but also to give recognition to these wonderful towns. Each town in Maine has its own narrative and distinct appealing characteristics, from stunning coastal views to historic architectures and vibrant local cultures. By participating in this voting process, users contribute to a broader appreciation and celebrate the diversity and picturesque qualities of Maine's towns.

What Is the Most Beautiful Town in Maine?

1

84
votes
Camden

Known for its picturesque harbor, quaint downtown, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains, Camden is often considered one of the most beautiful towns in Maine.
Camden is a vibrant and eclectic district located in north London. Known for its alternative music scene, vibrant markets, and unique atmosphere, it is often considered one of the most beautiful cities within London. Camden is a hub of creativity, attracting artists, musicians, and tourists from all over the world.

Camden Lock Market: A historic market with a wide range of stalls selling fashion, accessories, food, and crafts.

Regent's Canal: A picturesque waterway that runs through Camden, offering scenic walks and boat rides.

Camden Town: The heart of Camden, known for its lively nightlife, live music venues, and vibrant street art.

Camden Market: One of London's largest street markets, offering a mix of trendy fashion, vintage finds, and international cuisine.

Primrose Hill: A beautiful park with stunning panoramic views of London's skyline.
2

41
votes
Skeezix1000 · CC BY-SA 3.0

Bar Harbor

Located on Mount Desert Island, Bar Harbor is home to Acadia National Park and boasts stunning ocean views, historic architecture, and a lively downtown.
Bar Harbor is a picturesque coastal town located on Mount Desert Island in Maine. Known for its stunning natural beauty and charming New England ambiance, it is considered one of the most beautiful places in the state. Bar Harbor offers a perfect blend of scenic landscapes, historic charm, and a vibrant downtown area. The town is situated on the edge of Acadia National Park, which adds to its appeal as a popular tourist destination.

Geographical Location: Located on Mount Desert Island in Maine

Natural Beauty: Breathtaking coastal landscapes and scenic vistas

Acadia National Park: Adjacent to the town, offering outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife watching

New England Ambiance: Quaint and charming atmosphere with historic architecture and cobblestone streets

Downtown Area: Lively and bustling with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries
3

13
votes
Kennebunkport

This charming coastal town is famous for its beautiful beaches, historic homes, and bustling harbor. Visitors can enjoy shopping, dining, and exploring the town's many museums and galleries.
Kennebunkport is a charming coastal town in Maine, known for its natural beauty and historic charm. It is located on the Gulf of Maine, where the Kennebunk River meets the Atlantic Ocean. The town offers a picturesque shoreline dotted with sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and scenic harbors. Kennebunkport is also famous for its elegant historic homes, quaint shops, and delicious seafood restaurants. The town attracts visitors from all over the world who come to experience its coastal charm and explore the surrounding natural landscapes.

Location: On the Gulf of Maine, where the Kennebunk River meets the Atlantic Ocean

Natural Features: Sandy beaches, rocky cliffs, and scenic harbors

Historic Homes: Elegant and well-preserved historic homes

Shops: Quaint shops offering unique products

Seafood Restaurants: Delicious seafood dining options
4

28
votes
Ogunquit

Known for its scenic beauty and long stretches of white sand beaches, Ogunquit is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The town also features a bustling downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Ogunquit is a picturesque coastal town located in York County, Maine. Known for its stunning natural beauty and charming New England vibe, it attracts visitors from all over the world. The name 'Ogunquit' translates to 'beautiful place by the sea' in the indigenous Abenaki language, perfectly capturing the essence of this scenic destination.

Beach: Ogunquit boasts a magnificent three-mile stretch of sandy beach, which is regularly recognized as one of the best in the United States.

Marginal Way: This picturesque cliffside walking path offers breathtaking views of the rocky coastline and is a must-visit attraction in Ogunquit.

Perkins Cove: A quaint fishing village within Ogunquit, Perkins Cove is known for its picturesque harbor, unique shops, and seafood restaurants.

Ogunquit Museum of American Art: This museum houses an impressive collection of American art and offers stunning ocean views from its beautiful sculpture gardens.

Ogunquit Playhouse: A historic theater known as 'America's Foremost Summer Theater,' it hosts Broadway-caliber productions that attract theater enthusiasts from far and wide.
5

20
votes
Rockland

This vibrant coastal town is home to a thriving arts community, with many galleries, museums, and studios to explore. Visitors can also enjoy shopping and dining in the town's historic downtown district.
Rockland is a charming coastal town located in Knox County, Maine. It is known for its picturesque views of the Penobscot Bay, historic architecture, and vibrant arts scene. Rockland offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions, making it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages.

Location: Rockland is situated on the western shore of Penobscot Bay in midcoast Maine.

Scenic Views: The town provides stunning waterfront views, with colorful sunsets, a bustling harbor, and nearby picturesque lighthouses.

Historic Architecture: Rockland boasts a rich history reflected in its well-preserved historic buildings, including the stately Victorian homes along Main Street.

Fishing Heritage: Being a traditional fishing port, Rockland pays homage to its maritime legacy through its museums, such as the Maine Lighthouse Museum and the Sail Power and Steam Museum.

Artistic Community: Rockland is renowned for its thriving arts scene, featuring numerous galleries, art centers, and the esteemed Farnsworth Art Museum, dedicated to American art.
6

11
votes
3l3phant at en.wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0

Boothbay Harbor

This picturesque fishing village boasts stunning ocean views, charming shops and restaurants, and a bustling harbor filled with boats of all shapes and sizes. Visitors can also explore the nearby botanical gardens or take a scenic boat tour.
Boothbay Harbor is a charming coastal town located in Lincoln County, Maine. Known for its picturesque scenery and vibrant maritime atmosphere, it is renowned as one of the most beautiful towns in the state. The town is nestled on the shores of the scenic Boothbay Harbor, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. With its rich maritime heritage and vibrant downtown area, Boothbay Harbor attracts visitors from near and far.

Location: Lincoln County, Maine

Natural Beauty: Stunning coastal views, charming scenery

Maritime Atmosphere: Vibrant and lively maritime culture

Scenic Harbor: Boothbay Harbor offers picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean

Tourism: A popular tourist destination
7

9
votes
WhisperToMe · CC0

Southwest Harbor

Located on the western side of Mount Desert Island, Southwest Harbor is a quiet, picturesque town with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and ocean. Visitors can explore the town's many shops and restaurants, or take a hike in nearby Acadia National Park.
Southwest Harbor is a picturesque town located in Hancock County, Maine. Situated on the southwestern shore of Mount Desert Island, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and seascapes. With its charming combination of natural beauty and small-town charm, Southwest Harbor has captivated visitors and residents alike.

Population: approximately 1,764

Location: Hancock County, Maine

Geographic Features: Acadia National Park, Somes Sound, Western Mountain Range

Activities: Hiking, boating, whale watching, fishing

Annual Events: Acadia National Park's 4th of July Parade, Southwest Harbor Week
8

10
votes
Wiscasset

This historic town is home to many beautifully preserved 18th- and 19th-century homes and buildings. Visitors can stroll along the town's charming main street, lined with shops and art galleries, or explore the town's many historic landmarks.
Wiscasset is a charming coastal town located in the Lincoln County of Maine. Known for its picturesque beauty and rich history, it is often regarded as one of the most beautiful towns in the state. The town is situated on the banks of the Sheepscot River, offering stunning waterfront views and a tranquil atmosphere.

Population: Approximately 3,700 residents

Location: Located in Lincoln County, Maine

Scenic Beauty: Quaint streets lined with historic buildings, charming antique shops, and classic New England architecture

Waterfront: Picturesque views of the Sheepscot River and a scenic harbor

History: Rich maritime heritage with historical landmarks, including the 19th-century Lincoln County Courthouse and the Wiscasset Historic District
9

11
votes
Castine

This small coastal town is known for its rich history, with many historic landmarks and sites to explore. Visitors can also enjoy stunning ocean views, charming shops and restaurants, and a bustling harbor filled with sailboats and fishing boats.
Castine is a picturesque town located in Hancock County, Maine. It is known for its rich history, stunning coastal scenery, and charming New England charm. The town is nestled on a peninsula at the mouth of the Penobscot River, offering breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding natural beauty. Castine is adorned with beautifully preserved historic buildings, tree-lined streets, and a peaceful ambiance that attracts visitors from near and far. With its small population and tranquil atmosphere, Castine provides a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Location: Hancock County, Maine

Geography: Peninsula at the mouth of the Penobscot River

Scenic views: Breathtaking ocean and coastal scenery

Historic buildings: Well-preserved architecture

Charming streets: Tree-lined and inviting
10

5
votes
Belfast

This vibrant coastal town boasts a thriving arts community, with many galleries, museums, and studios to explore. Visitors can also enjoy shopping and dining in the town's historic downtown district, or take a stroll along the waterfront.
Belfast is a charming and picturesque town located on the coast of Maine. It is renowned for its scenic beauty, vibrant art scene, and historic architecture. Nestled between the rolling hills and the sparkling waters of Penobscot Bay, Belfast offers a perfect blend of natural splendor and cultural richness. The town is known for its warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Natural Beauty: Belfast is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the breathtaking coastal views of Penobscot Bay and the nearby rolling hills and forests.

Historic Architecture: The town features a remarkable collection of well-preserved historic homes, buildings, and churches, showcasing various architectural styles from different time periods.

Art and Culture: Belfast is renowned for its thriving art community, with numerous art galleries, studios, and theaters. The town hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

Local Maritime Heritage: As a coastal town, Belfast has a rich maritime heritage. Visitors can explore the Belfast Harbor, visit the Penobscot Marine Museum, and learn about the town's history as a shipbuilding and seafaring hub.

Quaint Downtown: Belfast's downtown area is a delight to explore, with its charming shops, boutiques, restaurants, and cafes. The tree-lined streets and historic storefronts add to the overall appeal.

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Ranking factors for beautiful town

Natural beauty

Consider the surrounding landscapes, such as forests, lakes, rivers, mountains, and coastline which contribute to the town's overall charm.
Architectural beauty

Evaluate the buildings and structures in the town. Look for historical significance, unique designs, and well-maintained properties that add to the town's aesthetic appeal.
Cleanliness and upkeep

Assess the cleanliness of the town's streets, parks, and public spaces. A well-maintained town is more likely to be perceived as beautiful.
Walkability and accessibility

Consider the layout of the town and how easy it is to navigate on foot or by bicycle. Beautiful towns often have pedestrian-friendly streets, bike paths, and easily accessible public spaces.
Green spaces

Examine the presence and maintenance of parks, gardens, and other natural spaces within the town. These areas offer a refreshing contrast to the built environment and contribute to the town's overall beauty.
Cultural and historical significance

Evaluate the town's heritage and how well it preserves and showcases its history through museums, monuments, and historical sites.
Vibrant local community

A beautiful town often features a lively community with a variety of local events, festivals, and attractions that may draw in tourists and contribute to a positive atmosphere.
Presence of art and creativity

Art and creative expressions in the form of murals, sculptures, and public installations can greatly enhance the beauty of a town.
Waterfront and coastal views

If the town is located near a body of water, consider the beauty of its waterfront area and how well it takes advantage of its natural surroundings.
Climate and seasonal variation

Take into account the local climate and the beauty of the town during different seasons. Some towns may be particularly charming during certain times of the year.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful town in Maine. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or town is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1700 views
231 votes
10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each town once every 24 hours. The rank of each town is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful town in maine

Maine is a state that's full of natural beauty and charming small towns. From the rugged coastline to the rolling hills, Maine has a lot to offer visitors and residents alike. When it comes to the most beautiful towns in Maine, there are so many contenders that it can be tough to pick just one. Whether you're looking for a quaint seaside village or a cozy mountain town, Maine has something to offer. In this article, we'll explore some of the most beautiful towns in Maine and what makes them so special. Get ready to fall in love with the Pine Tree State all over again!