A Summer Weekend Exploring Maine and New Hampshire

There’s nothing better than kicking off summer with a weekend getaway, and this June, we explored two of New England’s most charming states: Maine and New Hampshire. From rainy botanical gardens to beach picnics and Big Mac-inspired pizza, every stop was full of good vibes, better coffee, and even better company. We made the best of our summer weekend in Maine and New Hampshire!!

Coastal views and rainy adventures

Arrival at Portland International Jetport (PWM) — After flying into Portland, I met up with Emma by the iconic big moose near baggage claim, an unofficial Maine tradition.

Lunch at Bite Into Maine | 31 Diamond St, Portland, ME 04101 — We grabbed lobster rolls and went with “The Maine Way”, which is a cold with light mayo and a sprinkle of chives. (You can get it with warm butter, but Emma’s a mayo girl all the way, so I copied her.)

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens | 105 Botanical Gdns Dr, Boothbay, ME 04537 — After lunch, we drove about an hour to the botanical gardens. Even though it rained the entire time, it made the walk through thousands of plant species that much more magical. The gardens have expanded from 148 to 325 acres since it opened in the 90’s, and there’s a walking tour plus shuttle options if you’re not up for the full trek. This was our first time doing a garden tour in the rain. Honestly, it was kind of fun and worth our $21 admission.

Staying with the locals felt different

Evening in Benton, Maine — We made it to Emma’s house in Benton, stopping at Hannaford to grab ingredients for a cozy night in: pasta with alfredo sauce. Fun fact: Benton is a quiet residential town where everything is at least a 20-minute drive away. The town is undergoing changes too… two elementary schools are set to close soon.

Acadia national park was the most worth it

Beach Day in Acadia National Park — The next morning, we packed a cooler and made a quick stop at Aroma Joe’s in Bangor (Emma’s go-to is a vanilla latte with oat milk). The line wrapped into the street, and parking was chaotic — a true Maine coffee culture experience.

From there, we headed to Sand Beach in Acadia National Park. We sunbathed, hunted for seashells, and had a picnic with homemade sandwiches. The salty air, crashing waves, and slow pace made it the perfect summer afternoon. We also created content… are you surprised?

Bar Harbor is packed with charm! We wandered the shops, only 20 minutes from Sand Beach,, took a photo with a lobster statue, and soaked in the historic vibes. Did you know Martha Stewart has a home nearby in Seal Harbor? Casual.

Before heading to New Hampshire, we stopped at Wicked Whoopies and did a little shopping in Freeport. We also swung by Trader Joe’s for essentials for the next bit of our trip.

Might have stopped for a few lavendar plants along the way

New Hampshire felt like Tuscan vibes

Welcome to New Hampshire — one of just five states with no sales tax (hello, guilt-free shopping)!!!

We arrived in Salem and made our way to the beautifully designed Tuscan Village.

Tuscan Market — Fresh pasta, olive oil, Italian goods
Sam Adams Pavilion — Outdoor events + live music
Caffe Artisan — Iced oat milk vanilla lattes and a dreamy caprese sandwich

Our last night we indulged in Big Mac pizza (yes, it tasted just like the McDonald’s version!), garlic parmesan chicken tenders (did not disappoint!), and fries, a crispy perfection from Romano’s Pizzeria. All that for under $42. Can you say budget win?

I loved the beach picnic in Acadia to botanical gardens in the rain and late-night bites in New Hampshire. This trip reminded me to slow down and soak in each moment. Whether it’s coffee runs that take over the street or finding seashells with sand between our toes, it’s the in-between moments that leave the biggest mark. I’m so grateful for friends who open their homes, hometowns, and hearts. And for the chance to explore New England through their eyes.

Until next time, Maine and New Hampshire, Mel

PS After this trip, I’m so close to completing 50 states!!! I’ve now stayed at/ visited 41 states. Eeeeep!!!

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