I feel the need to preface all of my nature reviews with this: being 90% forested and having around…read more3500 miles of coastline, Maine (and NH) has a tremendous amount of spaces, walkways, paths, and trails of all kinds and of all levels. There's something for everyone. What I'm reviewing is how a spot compares to similar outdoor spots in my personal opinion. Being in nature - and remembering to carry in, carry out - is always five stars! :) Parking? Yes. Loop trail? No. Well marked signs? No. Element of surprise? Yes. I didn't realize until recently that Steep Falls was more than just the name of a town (or bridge) in Maine. I mean, I knew it was named after the falls it surrounds, but I guess I didn't realize you could access those falls for a nature walk! We first came during late autumn. There's a small parking lot, but you want to walk across Main St/Route 11 (before the bridge) to the other side because there's nothing actually adjacent to the parking lot itself. There are pretty obvious trails from here, but nothing is marked. Just follow the water itself (except for one spot, which you'll have to veer away from the water, into the woods, over a much smaller bridge [meant for snowmobiles? ATVs?] over Tucker Brook [I think?] then back down to the water). The fun fact about this spot is that, while it's nearly 75 feet across apparently it's only a six food drop, but still manages to be one of the top volume waterfalls in the entire state (with the water flowing steadily and strongly all year round). From what I've heard from locals, this is a spot to party at during the summer (even when we came we saw remnants of fire pits on the beach before the falls). Just sitting on the rocks so close to the falls was pretty stunning; it's loud, it's splashy, and it feels entirely remote as this part of Saco River is surrounded by tall evergreens!

Fort Gorges at Portland Maine in Casco Bay. This is old Civil war Fort you can access by boat and…read moreexplore! We did not get to go there! Noël Teel Lisa Diane Boyce-Vanoy Dale Lisa Vanoy Tony Vanoy #newengland25trip

Although I can't speak to Fort Gorges unless it's from the perspective of someone who's seen it…read morefrom a distance countless times, it is a beautiful landmark in Casco Bay. I hope to one day visit via kayak, but for now I'll settle staring at it from the port bow of the ferry.

We love swinging bridges so we made sure to make a stop at this one. It happened to be raining when…read morewe were on our way through this area but we didn't let that stop us. If anything, the fact that it was dusk and the rain was so gentle, kind of made the whole experience feel more visceral and intimate. The bridge itself is really beautiful with great views of the river on both sides. There's definitely enough movement so that you don't forget you're on a swinging bridge, but it didn't feel unsafe and even our little dog was fine walking back and forth across it. My husband and I hung out in the middle for a while, enjoying the views, cuddled in the cool wet air. It was actually pretty romantic. We probably spent about 15 or 20 minutes here and in that time multiple people crossed the bridge and at least five or six stopped to take photos in front of it, including a group of 4 that asked us to take their photo for them (pictured below) so this is a busy area even in the rain. But once you're here, you know why because it's a pretty cool experience. I definitely recommend a quick stop here if you can make the time.

Super cool suspended rope bridge. I went a a drizzly day and it was awesome. The parking lot is…read morereally small and has about 5 spots for cars. I walked across the the river and back. There are great views of the river. I jumped up and down at a couple of spots and could definitely feel the bridge swing. Definitely would visit again.

The lighthouse is at Two Lights State Park and it's meant to signify the entrance of the harbor in…read morePortland. It was built in 1874. The lighthouse currently functions as an automated station for the Coast Guard. The views from the lighthouse area, the water, and rocks are just lovely. Even on the days when the weather isn't the best it could be, still beautiful sights creating beautiful photographic memories. It's so serene walking along the coastline surrounding the lighthouse. The park itself is equally beautiful and lovely.

Sunset photos overlooking the water - 'nuff said. Gets cold and windy, bring layers and/or someone…read moreto hug. Find a kind stranger to take pics of you and your party; have fun

The Wiggly Bridge is a narrow pedestrian suspension bridge that stands in York, Maine. Located just…read moreoff of Maine State Route 103 (Lilac Lane), the 75-foot-long bridge crosses the tidal flow from Barrel Mill Pond to the York River. Built in the 1930s, it is believed to be the smallest suspension bridge in the United States. The bridge provides access to the Steedman Woods Nature Preserve and is a popular feature of the Fisherman's Walk trail. Originally known as the "Barrel Bridge", local lore claims that it earned its current name from a perceptive group of Girl Scouts who noted the bridge's "wiggly" nature. When walked upon, the deck bounces and flexes, banging back and forth in the anchorages. Many native southern Mainers can share their own childhood memories of leaping over the edge into the water and being pushed underneath with the current, one way or the other depending on the tide. This practice, as well as clam digging and any other possibly damaging activity, is now discouraged due to the erosion of mudflats. The Wiggly Bridge stands out as an iconic landmark and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in York, Maine's unique charm and natural splendor. Steedman Woods is also a great place to visit. A nice stroll on the trails in this lush and tranquil forest offer scenic viewpoints and picturesque spots that showcase the breathtaking beauty of the Maine coast. Parking near the Wiggly Bridge is limited, so you may need to park on the side of Route 103 or in a nearby harbor lot, keeping in mind some spots may require a permit or have time restrictions. It is also possible to walk to the bridge from nearby York Village.

"Wiggle, wiggle, wiggle in your boots and shoes Wiggle,…read morewiggle, wiggle, you got nothing to lose" (Bob Dylan) Ever since I stumbled upon a Yelp listing for something as awesomely named as "The Wiggly Bridge", I knew I just had to make a visit happen one of these days. Pulling off that visit was difficult, because following the address we had put us in the middle of a residential neighborhood with "Permit Parking Only" signs galore. We parked off to the side, held our breath, crossed our fingers, and looked for the Bridge, which was nowhere to be found. Luckily, a gent was walking near us, and he directed us to a long circuitous walk down an elevated path, under the road, and across a marine walkway. As we walked and walked and walked, we finally caught sight of the big green spires that told us we had found the elusive Wiggly Bridge. The Wiggly Bridge is just 75 feet long, and I've seen a few sources claim it's the smallest suspension bridge in the world. And yes, we can confirm that when you walk across it, it most definitely bounces, wiggles, and flexes under your feet. I can also confirm that on a rainy day (like today), the Bridge should really be named "The Wiggly and Slippery Bridge", because it was slippery as hell.

It may take some effort to get to the top, but when you do, you are rewarded for that effort!…read more Stunning views of the Lake Winnipesaukee region!

Forget paying for Castle in the Clouds - come to the Abenaki Tower for free!…read more Easy parking. I can see it getting a bit muddy in some places. 0.1 miles from the lot to the tower. Then about (5) sets of stairs to the top. Yes, a damn shame there is so much graffiti on the tower. However, it's not in your face w/ bright colors. Ignore it and take in the immense view. This is a better vantage point of both lakes Winnipesauke and Wentworth. Higher up too. I came on a cloudy day and it was still breathtaking. Pair this with the Wright WW2 museum and you have a solid day.

One time at the US Custom House I drank pickle juice in what was Joshua Chamberlain's old office…read morewith two of my best friends. The only thing that was missing with Angus King. To be honest, if he had been there I probably would have died of sheer happiness. It would have been horrible to pass away so young, but with that much epic Maine-ness happening all at once, it would have come as no surprise to my friends and family. The United States Custom House here in Portland was built with fire proof granite from New Hampshire between 1868 and 1872. When you first enter, there is a grandiose hall with a checkerboard floor, walnut counters on either side of the room, and an iron-railed balcony encircling the room. From what I know, at the heart of its purpose, it was where merchants used to come to pay their tariffs on imports/exports. Now, here are things I'll probably get in trouble for telling you: 1. This place might actually be a front for Gringotts Wizarding Bank 2. I may or may not have accidentally been locked in the basement after the alarm was tripped and the police showed up (it's much more fun to not know the context of which this story comes from, so I'll leave it at that) 3. I was told there used to be a moat and a dungeon here. I'm not THAT gullible, but... a girl needs something to believe in, y'know? So, I'm going to continue to think this is true regardless if hard evidence is shown to me and proves otherwise. 4. When the zombie apocalypse happens, this is on my list of places in town to possibly secure and make a fortress out of In reality, I've been here multiple times throughout the years for galas and auctions, cocktail tastings, historical tours, and more (KUDOS to the The Greater Portland Landmarks for doing such an unbelievable job at the preservation of this spot which was added to the National Register of Historical Sites [as of 1973]). This place, to me, feels like a living, breathing relic from the days of Portland's yesteryear. The view of our little seaport town from the cupola of the building is also breathtaking. If you love history and ever have the chance to tour the Custom House... do it. Without hesitation, do it. It's one of those spots that will stay with you forever.

Located just off the parking lot of Bug Light Park, this large ship-shaped structure recalls what…read morewas here before the area was converted to a harborside park - a sprawling World War II shipyard that was capable of building as many as 13 ships at the same time. Between 1941 and 1945, the South Portland Shipyards built 266 cargo vessels, 236 of which were Liberty Ships, contributing immeasurably to the Allied victory in World War II. When the war ended the Maine Legislature formed the Greater Portland Public Development Commission (GPPDC), which acquired, leased, and managed the Shipyard properties. The Liberty Ship Memorial was conceived as a tribute to the thousands of men and women who worked at the South Portland Shipyards; the seamen who faced the dangers of war on board the Liberty Ships; all of those who served in the war and their families; and the South Portland residents who shared their backyard with a booming shipyard. There are several captions and plaques that detail the history here, how it was a critical part of the war effort and then how it came to be the park. It's an amazing structure that won an "Excellence on the Waterfront Honor Award" from the Waterfront Center, Washington D.C., for this project. [Review 14911 overall, 413 of 2021, number 93 in Maine.]

Kennebunkport and the surrounding areas are full of both natural and architectural beauty. There…read moreare many gorgeous and historical homes and landmarks in the area. The Wedding Cake House was built in 1825 and is the most photographed house in Maine, revered for its unique architectural style. The home is privately owned so no peeks inside, but I was glad I stopped by to see it.

I mean, it's pretty but odd. The construction itself is interesting, definitely a WOW factor when…read moreyou drive by. There was a lovely older model vehicle in front when we went. If you want a venue for Quincenera or wedding, this may be a great location to consider.

Beautiful lighthouse. Easy to navigate to the location and easy to park. It was so peaceful to…read morewatch the waves crash against the rocks. As a tourist, this checked all my boxes, especially that there was no cost to enter the parking lot.

Delightful spot to check out a quintessential coastal lighthouse. Disappointed that you actually…read morecan't get that close to the lighthouse itself but it's pretty to take in and grab dint nice photos. Decent size parking lot with a couple of beaches.