Maine Named Top Destination for Relocation

After visiting 29 states last year, Emily Pogue selected Maine as the ideal destination for relocation. Pogue and her husband spent the majority of the year traveling across the United States, driving through 29 different states. Despite the extensive travel, Maine was the standout choice due to its combination of natural beauty, food, and atmosphere.

The state offers picturesque beach towns, lighthouses, and lobster boats. Pogue noted that the wooded natural preserves, food, and kind people won her over. The following sections detail the specific attractions that make Maine a top destination.

Maine is synonymous with lighthouses. The state possesses 65 lighthouses positioned along the coast, islands, and inlets. During a one-month stay in Portland, Pogue visited six of these structures. The visits included the West Quoddy Head Light, located on the United States' easternmost peninsula, and the iconic Portland Head Light.

Some of the most scenic lighthouses are located within Acadia National Park. While visiting the park, Pogue stopped by the Bass Harbor Head Light Station. She hiked down to the rocks below the tower, which provided a unique vantage point of the beacon.

While the coast receives significant attention, the inland portions of the state are equally impressive. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is a favorite destination for hiking and nature reserves. The gardens feature tree-covered trails and massive trolls constructed from recycled wood. These gentle giants are a specific draw for visitors.

Bangor, Maine, is another inland destination known for its connection to author Stephen King. Visitors can walk by his house and view the imposing water tower often cited as inspiration for the novel It.

Lobster is a staple of Maine cuisine, specifically the lobster roll. Pogue compared the two popular varieties: the cold Maine-style roll, which mixes chilled lobster with mayo and celery, and the warm Connecticut-style, which tosses lobster meat in warm butter. While the cold roll is the traditional style, the warm butter preparation was preferred.

Beyond seafood, desserts are a major highlight. Whoopie pies are noted for their springy sponge and decadent cream. Potato doughnuts offer a heartier, less sweet alternative to traditional doughnuts.

Visiting during blueberry season (late July to early September) provided access to specific local treats:

• Blueberry tarts
• Scones with blueberry jam
• Blueberry-infused beer

These dishes utilize wild blueberries, which are roughly half the size and significantly sweeter than typical grocery store varieties.

A strong sense of community was evident throughout the state. Residents were described as friendly and willing to strike up conversations at locations ranging from rural lobster shacks to breweries. Pogue observed that locals genuinely love living in Maine, contrasting with other states where residents questioned why tourists chose to visit.

The most palpable community spirit was experienced at a Portland Hearts of Pine soccer game. Attendees were seen running into neighbors and chatting with seatmates. The energy in the crowd was contagious, leading visitors to sing along with the team chant.

Although Pogue plans to return to Maine in the future, she acknowledges the difference between visiting in July and the winter months. She remains optimistic that the state's appeal would hold up even with snow and cold Atlantic breezes.