maine dog-friendly destinations
Southern coast
Maine has numerous state parks in which to camp, hike, boat, and enjoy nature. Interestingly their leash requirement is no longer than 4'. Follow the link for a complete listing.
Southern Coast
Kennebunk
First Chance Whale Watch
If the boat is not full, your dog may be able to join you on a scenic cruise.
Kennebunkport is a cute village to walk around and grab an ice cream. There's nice galleries in gift shops too if someone can stay outside with the dog. The outlying area is nice to tour by car. There's also a trolley museum that allows dogs and features trails as well. They are open May-October.
Kittery
Fort McClary State Historic Site
As recently as World War I, the old fort protected Maine from outsiders. Open in the warmer months, the fort preservation group sometimes hosts events as well.
Ogunquit
Finestkind Scenic Cruises, Perkins Cove
A long-time family business, the boats are traditional, Maine-built wooden boats. Well-mannered dogs can join you on a cruise of this beautiful area and even a lobstering trip so long as no one on board has issues with dogs.
Wells
Wells Harbor Park Concerts
There's nothing like sitting out on a warm summer night listening to some music. And the price is even better - free! Captain Satch and Sons
Catch your own dinner. Take your dog on a fishing excursion (so long as no one else on board minds).
Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge
Dogs are allowed on the Carson Trail. The trail is open all year and has nice views.
York
New England Curiosities Walking Tours, York and Seacoast, NH
Visit graveyards, lighthouses, and other scenes of New England's haunted past. You can book private groups and customized tours as well.
portland and casco bay
Portland is a very dog-friendly and walkable city. Some of the restaurants in the Old Port allow dogs on their patios in the summer.
Casco Bay Lines
Dogs must be ticketed but are allowed on these boats that connect to area islands. They also have some scenic cruises.
Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth
Part of Fort Williams Park, this historic lighthouse is one of Maine's most famous.
Midcoast
Midcoast
Boothbay
Boothbay Railway Village
A must for old car buffs, the museum has more than 50 examples of the country's transportation history.
Boothbay Region Land Trust
The trust manages numerous trail networks in the area. See their site for locations.
Camden
Take a sail on the Schooner Olad or the Appledore!
Port Clyde
Monhegan Boat Line
Visit the muse of many artists - Monhegan Island. The boat line also offers scenic cruises.
downeast
western lakes
Midcoast
Acadia National Park is one of the few national parks that allow dogs. How lucky we are! There is no shortage of trails and amazing views to enjoy.
Bar Harbor
Downeast Windjammer Cruises
Enjoy a cruise on the schooner Margaret Todd, a fishing expedition or ferry ride with your furry friend.
Another fun boating option is a ride on a wooden lobster boat. Dogs are allowed if it is ok with the other passengers.
Sea Princess Nature Cruises
Enjoy the beauty of Acadia from the sea.
Baring
Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge
Enjoy nature at its most stunning. This is the easternmost national wildlife refuge and contains more than 50 miles of trails and roads.
Eastport
Deer Island Ferry
Why limit your travels to just Maine? Take a day trip to New Brunswick and enjoy some Canadian hospitality.
Millbridge
Robertson Sea Tours
More nature - puffins, seals, ospreys, and more plus sniffin' o' the sea!
Steuben
Petit Manan National Wildlife Refuge
Home to peregrine falcons and other fabulous birds, part of this oceanside refuge is accessible by car, other parts by boat. This being Maine, of course there is also a stunning lighthouse.
western lakes
western lakes
western lakes
Grafton
Mahoosucs Reserve
Nature, beautiful views, and even a bit of the Appalachian Trail can be enjoyed at this reserve.
Newry
Sunday River Farm Loop
The ski resort has one dog-friendly cross-country trail.
Oquossoc
Bald Mountain Reserve
Enjoy all of nature's best plus hiking, fishing, swimming, and primitive camping.
River's Edge Sports
Rent kayaks or snowmobiles, depending on the time of year! They also offer guide services.
Stratton
Bigelow Preserve
Beautiful mountain views and 30 miles of the Appalachian Trail are part of the preserve. There are also primitive campsites available for free.
Five Fields Farm
Pick apples in late summer and fall or enjoy miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter.
central maine
western lakes
western lakes
Augusta
Viles Arboretum
This 200-acre spot is a great place to take a walk and enjoy the trees and plants.