Maine vs New Hampshire | Which one to choose?
I have lived in New England for almost 12 years and I have learned every state in the region has its own charm. Two states that are very similar and can be difficult to choose between are Maine vs New Hampshire.
When planning a trip to the Northeastern United States, the states of Maine and New Hampshire are often on the list of must-visit destinations. I live in a sweet spot on the coast of New Hampshire where I get to enjoy both what NH and Maine have to offer!
Both states offer beautiful natural scenery, charming towns, and a rich history. However, with limited time and resources, travelers may wonder which state to prioritize. A Maine vs New Hampshire vacation is a must for anybody.
In this blog post, we will explore the attractions and features of both states to help you decide whether Maine or New Hampshire is the better fit for your next adventure.
Scenery
One of the primary reasons visitors flock to Maine and New Hampshire is for their breathtaking scenery. Maine is known for its rugged coastline, lighthouses, and abundant wildlife.
Acadia National Park, located in the northeastern part of the state, offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, while Bar Harbor provides a quintessential New England experience with its charming downtown area.
In contrast, New Hampshire boasts the White Mountains, which are a haven for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.
The mountains are home to Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, and the Kancamagus Highway, one of the most scenic drives in New England.
I personally have a sweet spot for the Franconia Notch, I believe that is the best of what New Hampshire has to offer.
The Lakes Region in central New Hampshire is also a popular destination for those looking to enjoy water activities like swimming and boating.
Population
The population of Maine and New Hampshire are very comparable at 1.33 million people. Knowing Maine has almost 24,000 square miles more in land mass could give you an idea of how crowded each place is.
Maine is one of the least densely populated states in the country. This state is more rural than New Hampshire, with a population density of 44 people per square mile compared to New Hampshire’s 133 people per square mile. However, a large percentage of Maine is forest.
Land area
Maine is larger than New Hampshire in terms of land area, with 35,000 square miles to New Hampshire’s 9,300.
Maine has more coastline than any other state east of the Mississippi River (3,500 miles). New Hampshire only has 18 miles of coastline.
Culture and History
Both Maine and New Hampshire have a rich cultural and historical heritage that visitors can explore. Maine has a strong maritime history, and visitors can learn about the state’s seafaring past at museums such as the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath.
The state is also famous for its lobster industry, and visitors can experience a traditional lobster bake in many coastal towns.
In contrast, New Hampshire is known for its colonial and Revolutionary War-era history. Visitors can explore the Strawbery Banke Museum in Portsmouth, which showcases the state’s colonial architecture and lifestyle.
Food
Maine and New Hampshire are both known for their delicious seafood.
Maine is famous for its lobster and lobster rolls, and visitors can enjoy this delicacy at all types of restaurants on the coastline.
The state is also home to many craft breweries and wineries, making it a great destination for beer and wine enthusiasts.
New Hampshire’s food scene is equally impressive, with a focus on farm-to-table cuisine.
The state has a thriving farmers’ market culture, and visitors can sample local produce at markets such as the Concord Farmers’ Market.
Weather
When planning a trip, it’s important to consider the weather conditions in the destination.
The climates of Maine and New Hampshire are very similar, with each state experiencing four seasons and a humid continental climate.
In addition to these similarities, there are some differences between them as well.
New Hampshire has slightly hotter summers, but only by a few degrees on average. In the same way Maine is slightly colder in the winter, but not by much.
Maine technically has a colder climate than New Hampshire, with average temperatures ranging from 20 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to 75 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer. New Hampshire has a warmer climate, with average temperatures ranging from 30 degrees Fahrenheit in the winter to 80 degrees Fahrenheit in the summer.
Accessibility
Finally, it’s important to consider the accessibility of each state. Maine is a larger state, with a greater distance between its major attractions.
The state’s largest city, Portland, is located about two hours north of Boston, while Bar Harbor is about a five-hour drive from Boston.
New Hampshire is smaller in size and more accessible than Maine. The state’s largest city, Manchester, is only about an hour north of Boston, and the White Mountains are only a few hours’ drive from major East Coast cities such as New York and Philadelphia.
In terms of transportation, both Maine and New Hampshire have airports, the biggest ones being in Portland and Manchester respectively.
The Amtrak’s Downeaster also runs from Boston all the way up to New Brunswick, Maine, hitting a few New Hampshire towns as well.
Maine or New Hampshire?
Maine and New Hampshire are both beautiful states, but they’re different in many ways. If you’re looking for a new home or vacation destination, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each location before making your decision.
- Maine is much bigger than New Hampshire.
- The two states have very similar populations.
- Homes cost less in Maine than they do in New Hampshire on average (but not by much).
- Weather can be unpredictable: one day it may be sunny and warm; another day there could be snow falling from the sky! In general though, the climates are very similar.
We hope this article has helped you decide which state is best for you. New Hampshire vs Maine both offer unique attractions and features that make them excellent destinations for travelers. Maine is best known for its rugged coastline and seafood cuisine, while New Hampshire is famous for its White Mountains and colonial history.
When deciding which state to visit, consider what type of experience you are looking for. If you are an outdoor enthusiast, the White Mountains of New Hampshire may be more appealing, while if you are a seafood lover, Maine may be the better choice. No matter what, a Maine vs New Hampshire vacation will be an adventure you will forever cherish.
Ultimately, both states have something for everybody. Visitors can’t go wrong with either choice. No matter which state you choose, be prepared to be awed by the natural beauty and rich history of this region.
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