Whether you’re heading or coming from Eastern Canada, going through Maine is by far the most scenic route. Forests cover almost 90 percent of the state, giving Main the dubious nickname of being the Pine Tree State. The tall pines stretch across the state and are the backbone of Maine’s large wood-processing industry. No wonder award-winning author Stephen King had so much time, and material to write.  Besides wood products, Maine also produces paper, food, computer and electronic equipment, fabricated metals, and leather products. Maine is also known for potatoes, eggs, milk, lobsters, clams, and crabs.  

During the Revolutionary War, English fighters punished many parts of the state for opposing the King of England. Main’s close proximity to Canada and away from the rest of the United States, made this easier to do. Maine was first settled in 1607, about thirteen years before the Pilgrims came to Plymouth Rock. However, several problems forced settlers back to England in 1608. Maine didn’t become a state until 1820 and was the 23^rd to enter the country, making it the largest state in New England.

Tourist attractions

The first weekend of August is the time to visit Maine. The annual Lobster Festival in Rockland is a treat in itself. On your way, stop by one of the many beaches along the Atlantic Coast to soak in some sun or cast your rod in the great Atlantic. Maine has quaint fishing villages throughout as well as peninsulas of rocky coasts. During winter, ski resorts offer cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails, along with conventional downhill ski slopes. Ski enthusiasts love Maine during the winter. Mountain bikers take to the same trails in the warmer months making them some of the best trails in New England.

Quick Facts

 • Maine was a part of Massachusetts for about 170 years.
 • The Burnham Tavern still has the same sign it did in 1770, "Drink for the thirsty, food for the hungry, lodging for the weary, and good keeping for horses.". Colonists met in the tavern in 1775 to plot the capture of the British ship Margaretta. It was captured during the first naval battle of the Revolutionary War.
 • The Old Fort Western in Augusta is where Benedict Arnold and his men met before attacking Quebec in 1775.
 • One of the oldest lighthouses in the United States is also in Maine. The Portland Head Light was built in 1971 and is more than 101 feet tall. From there, you can see many of the more than 30 state parks and 13 historic sites around Maine, but not the birthplace of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow in Portland.
 • Tate House is the oldest house in Portland. The three story wooden structure was built in 1755 and has quarters that were once used by slaves.
 • Maine was added to the Union during the Civil War as part of the Missouri Compromise. Since Missouri was entering as a slave state, Maine was entered as a free state to keep the balance.