Maine or Cape Cod | Which One Should You Visit?
If you’re planning a trip to the east coast of the United States and you’re not sure where to go between Maine or Cape Cod, you’re not alone.
Being a New England native, I travel to both frequently and I adore them both for very different reasons. In this post I break down the best of both places so you can make the best decision on which one to visit.
Both destinations are incredibly popular with tourists, and for good reason. Maine is known for its rugged coastline, fresh seafood, and quaint seaside towns. Cape Cod is famous for its beaches, lighthouses, and charming small towns.
So, which one is better to visit? Let’s take a closer look.
Maine:
Maine is located in the northeastern part of the United States and is known for its rocky coastline, fresh lobster, and stunning natural beauty.
“Vacationland” is a state with many unique features, but perhaps the most striking aspect of the state is its rugged and diverse coastline. This stretches over 3,000 miles and is dotted with historic lighthouses, quaint fishing villages, and stunning natural landscapes.
Some of the most popular destinations in Maine include Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, Portland, and Kennebunkport. Here are some of the top reasons to visit Maine:
Fresh Seafood:
Maine is famous for its lobster, which is considered some of the best in the world. Visitors can also enjoy other fresh seafood like clams, oysters, and scallops.
Quaint Seaside Towns:
Maine is home to some of the most charming seaside towns in the country. Places like Bar Harbor, Kennebunkport, and Camden are known for their historic architecture, quaint shops, and excellent restaurants.
Lighthouses
Maine has over 60 lighthouses along its coastline, making it the state with the most lighthouses in the United States.
The oldest lighthouse in Maine is Portland Head Light, which was built in 1791.
These are evidence to the state’s deep ties to the sea and its importance in shaping the state’s culture and heritage. Visitors to either state will find plenty of opportunities to explore these historic lighthouses and learn about the important role they played in guiding ships and keeping mariners safe throughout history.
Scenic Beauty:
Maine is home to some of the most stunning natural scenery in the country. The state’s rocky coastline is dotted with lighthouses and picturesque fishing villages, and its interior is full of forests, lakes, and mountains.
“Vacationland” is home to numerous state parks that offer visitors the opportunity to experience the state’s wild natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the best state parks in Maine and what makes them great to visit:
- Acadia National Park – Located on the rocky coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers visitors a chance to explore a diverse landscape of forests, lakes, and mountains. There are also stunning ocean views from atop Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on the east coast.
- Baxter State Park – Home to Mount Katahdin, the highest mountain in Maine, Baxter State Park is a paradise for hikers, campers, and wildlife enthusiasts. There are over 200,000 acres of wilderness to explore in this park.
- Camden Hills State Park – With its panoramic views of the coast and islands, Camden Hills State Park is a popular destination for hikers and photographers, offering trails of varying difficulty levels that lead to scenic overlooks and rocky cliffs.
- Bradbury Mountain State Park – Known for its stunning fall foliage, Bradbury Mountain State Park is a year-round destination for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, and campsites nestled among rolling hills and towering trees.
- Reid State Park – Situated on a secluded stretch of the coast, Reid State Park boasts miles of sandy beaches, rocky tidal pools, and towering sand dunes, making it a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and sunbathing.
All of these state parks offer visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Maine, from the rough mountains and coastline to the dense forests and rolling hills, and are well worth a visit for anyone looking to explore this stunning state.
How to get to Maine by train
The Downeaster Amtrak train runs through the southern coast of Maine and starts from Boston, MA. The first stop in Maine is in Wells ME and it runs all the way to Brunswick, stopping multiple times.
Cape Cod:
Cape Cod is a popular vacation destination located in southeastern Massachusetts. The region is known for its beaches, lighthouses, and charming small towns.
The most unique thing about this peninsula is its distinctive architecture, characterized by the iconic Cape Cod-style houses. These houses have steep roofs, dormer windows, and cedar shingles, which have become an enduring symbol of American coastal living.
Some of the most popular destinations on Cape Cod include Provincetown, Chatham, and Hyannis. Here are some of the top reasons to visit Cape Cod:
Lighthouses:
Cape Cod is home to over a dozen historic lighthouses, many of which are open to the public for tours.
Some of the most popular lighthouses include Highland Light, Nauset Light, and Chatham Light.
The oldest lighthouse on Cape Cod is Highland Light, which was built in 1797.
Charming Small Towns:
Cape Cod is full of charming small towns with quaint shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Places like Provincetown, Chatham, and Hyannis are all worth a visit.
Beaches:
Cape Cod is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.
These pristine getaways offer visitors a chance to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf. Here are some of the most popular Cape Cod beaches and what makes them great:
- Coast Guard Beach – Located in Eastham, Coast Guard Beach is consistently ranking among the top beaches in the country for its pristine sand, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beach is also known for its excellent surfing conditions.
- Nauset Beach – Also located in Eastham, Nauset Beach is a long, wide stretch of sandy shoreline that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach is popular with families, as well as surfers and bodyboarders.
- Chatham Lighthouse Beach – Situated at the southern tip of Cape Cod, Chatham Lighthouse Beach offers visitors a chance to explore the historic lighthouse and enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic. The beach is famous for its strong surf and rip currents, making it popular with experienced swimmers and surfers.
- Sandy Neck Beach – Located in Barnstable, Sandy Neck Beach is a secluded stretch of sandy shoreline that offers visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of Cape Cod. The beach is also home to a historic lighthouse and a popular camping area.
- Craigville Beach – Situated in Centerville, Craigville Beach is a favorite among locals and tourists alike for its wide stretch of sandy shoreline, calm waters, and picturesque views of Nantucket Sound. The beach is also home to a snack bar, restrooms, and lifeguard services.
All of these beaches offer visitors a chance to enjoy the natural beauty and coastal charm of Cape Cod. From the rolling sand dunes and historic lighthouses to the crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life, the Cape is worth a visit for anyone looking to experience the best of this iconic vacation destination.
What is the closest train station to Cape Cod?
For those wanting to travel by train the closest train station to Cape Cod is in Hyannis, MA. You can take the CapeFlyer to Boston’s South Station and then make connections from there.
Keep in mind this is a seasonal train and only runs from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day
Which one is better to visit: Maine or Cape Cod?
The answer really depends on your personal preferences.
If you’re looking for rugged natural beauty and fresh seafood, Maine is the place to go.
If you’re more interested in beaches and lighthouses, then Cape Cod is the better choice.
Either way, both destinations offer plenty to see and do and are well worth a visit.
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