50 Maine Fun Facts
50 Fun Facts About Maine – Wood Island Studio
Welcome to our guide of 50 fun facts about Maine—each packed with 50 words of charm, history, and coastal curiosity. Whether you're a lifelong Mainer or discovering the Pine Tree State for the first time, these bite-sized stories celebrate everything that makes Maine unforgettable.
1. Maine’s Lobster Legacy
Maine supplies nearly 90% of the United States’ lobster. The cold, clean waters of the Gulf of Maine create ideal conditions for lobsters to thrive. From traps to tables, the lobster industry is a major part of the state’s economy, culture, and coastal identity—drawing seafood lovers from all over.
2. The First Sunrise in the U.S.
Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park sees the first sunrise in the continental United States for part of the year. From October through early March, early risers hike to the summit to watch the day begin. It’s a must-do moment that blends natural beauty with symbolic fresh starts.
3. Wild Blueberry Capital
Maine is the number one producer of wild blueberries in the world. These tiny, sweet berries grow low to the ground and are harvested in late summer, especially in the Downeast region. They’re packed with antioxidants and show up in everything from pies to pancakes to local craft beers.
4. Moose Country
With an estimated population of 60,000 to 70,000 moose, Maine has more moose than any other state in the lower 48. Spotting one in the wild—especially in northern or western Maine—is an unforgettable experience. They’re enormous, majestic, and a true symbol of the state's wilderness and rugged charm.
5. The Pine Tree State
Maine’s nickname, "The Pine Tree State," comes from the vast forests that cover over 90% of its land. Towering Eastern White Pines once fueled the state’s shipbuilding industry and still define the landscape today. The pine tree even appears on Maine’s state flag and original seal design.
6. Only One Bordering State
Maine is the only U.S. state that borders just one other state—New Hampshire. To the north and east, it shares a long international boundary with Canada. Its geographic isolation helps preserve Maine’s distinctive identity, accent, and culture. It’s a state that proudly stands a little apart from the rest.
7. Home of Stephen King
Master of horror Stephen King was born in Portland and lives in Bangor, where his eerie Victorian mansion attracts fans from around the world. Many of his bestselling novels are set in fictional Maine towns. His writing has helped cement Maine as a hauntingly beautiful place full of mystery.
8. Over 3,000 Miles of Coastline
Thanks to its countless bays, inlets, peninsulas, and islands, Maine has over 3,478 miles of jagged coastline—more than California. This rugged, wave-carved edge is lined with lighthouses, working harbors, and sandy beaches. It’s the heart of the state’s maritime heritage and a draw for artists and adventurers alike.
9. Portland Head Light
Maine’s oldest lighthouse, Portland Head Light in Cape Elizabeth, was commissioned by George Washington and completed in 1791. It’s one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, perched atop rocky cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. The beacon still guides ships today and is a proud symbol of Maine’s seafaring past.
10. A Haven for Lighthouses
Maine has more than 60 lighthouses, scattered along its rocky shores and remote islands. Each has its own story—some are haunted, some automated, and some open to visitors. Together, they form a shining thread through Maine’s coastal history, guiding sailors and inspiring countless paintings, postcards, and T-shirts.
11. The Origin of Earmuffs
Earmuffs were invented in 1873 by Chester Greenwood of Farmington, Maine. He was just 15 when he created them to keep his ears warm while ice skating. The invention took off, and Greenwood’s hometown still celebrates “Chester Greenwood Day” each December with a parade and plenty of creative headgear.
12. Acadia National Park
Acadia was the first national park east of the Mississippi and is the only national park in New England. Located on Mount Desert Island, it includes Cadillac Mountain, carriage roads, ocean cliffs, and forested trails. Each year, millions come to hike, bike, and soak in Maine’s stunning natural beauty.
13. The Desert of Maine
Yes, Maine has a desert—but it’s not what you think. The Desert of Maine in Freeport is a 40-acre stretch of glacial silt that became exposed after poor farming practices in the 1800s. It’s now a quirky tourist attraction featuring dune walks, a gift shop, and historic storytelling.
14. The State Cat is a Giant
Maine’s official state cat is the Maine Coon, one of the largest domesticated cat breeds in the world. Known for their tufted ears, thick fur, and friendly personalities, they’re believed to have adapted to Maine’s cold winters. Their origin is still debated, but Mainers proudly claim them as their own.
15. Birthplace of Paul Bunyan?
Bangor claims to be the birthplace of the legendary lumberjack Paul Bunyan, complete with a 31-foot-tall statue downtown. While other states also make the claim, Maine’s deep logging roots and larger-than-life forests make it a fitting home for the folk hero. Either way, the statue is a fun photo op.
16. Largest Lake: Moosehead
Moosehead Lake is the largest lake entirely within one New England state. Located in northwestern Maine, it spans 75,000 acres and is a favorite for boating, fishing, and spotting moose. Its rugged shoreline and remote charm offer a true wilderness experience—perfect for disconnecting and recharging.
17. Statehood in 1820
Maine became the 23rd state on March 15, 1820, as part of the Missouri Compromise. It split from Massachusetts to form its own state, bringing a fiercely independent spirit into the Union. The year 2020 marked Maine’s bicentennial—200 years of statehood, celebrated with events and exhibitions across the state.
18. Old Orchard Beach Pier
Since the late 1800s, Old Orchard Beach has welcomed visitors with its classic wooden pier stretching over the Atlantic. Today, it’s lined with restaurants, arcades, and entertainment. Paired with its wide sandy beach and small-town charm, it’s one of Maine’s most iconic summer destinations for families and beachgoers alike.
19. Highest Mountain: Katahdin
Mount Katahdin, located in Baxter State Park, is the highest peak in Maine at 5,269 feet. It's the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail and a challenging climb with sweeping views. The name "Katahdin" means "The Greatest Mountain" in the Penobscot language—a fitting title for this majestic summit.
20. State Bird: Chickadee
The black-capped chickadee is Maine’s state bird, chosen for its resilience, cheerful call, and year-round presence. These small, friendly birds are easily spotted at feeders and in forests across the state. They’re quick to charm with their curious nature and signature “chick-a-dee-dee-dee” call, even in the depths of winter.
21. Maine’s State Animal: Moose
Maine’s official state animal is the moose—towering, shy, and utterly majestic. These giants can weigh up to 1,000 pounds and are often spotted near ponds and wetlands in northern and western Maine. Their sheer size and peaceful presence make seeing one a bucket-list experience for visitors and residents alike.
22. Bold Coast Beauty
The Bold Coast, located in Washington County, offers some of Maine’s most dramatic coastal scenery. With rugged cliffs, sea stacks, and remote hiking trails near Cutler and Lubec, this area feels untouched. It’s a haven for solitude-seekers, seabird watchers, and anyone drawn to Maine’s wilder, wind-swept side.
23. Maine’s Deep Logging Roots
Before lobster and tourism, Maine’s economy was built on timber. Vast forests fed a booming logging industry in the 1800s. Lumberjacks floated logs down rivers to mills, and logging camps dotted the landscape. Remnants of this era live on in place names, stories, and the state's enduring connection to the woods.
24. Largest City: Portland
Portland is Maine’s largest city and a foodie haven with cobblestone streets, a working waterfront, and nationally acclaimed restaurants. Once a major shipping hub, it now blends historic charm with creative energy. From craft breweries to art galleries, Portland is small but vibrant—an urban experience with unmistakable Maine character.
25. The Allagash Wilderness Waterway
The Allagash Wilderness Waterway is a 92-mile-long stretch of lakes, rivers, and streams in northern Maine. It’s a dream destination for canoeists and backcountry campers, offering quiet, scenic beauty with few signs of civilization. Loons call across the water as paddlers travel through one of the wildest places in the Northeast.
26. State Insect: Honeybee
Maine’s official state insect is the honeybee—recognized for its vital role in pollinating crops, especially wild blueberries and apples. These hardworking pollinators are crucial to Maine’s agriculture. With growing awareness of their ecological importance, bees have become a symbol of sustainability, productivity, and the beauty of interconnected ecosystems.
27. Aroostook County: Bigger Than Some States
Aroostook County, known as "The County," is so vast it’s larger than Connecticut and Rhode Island combined. Rich in farmland, forests, and French-Acadian heritage, it’s home to potato fields, snowmobiling trails, and warm-hearted locals. It’s a region where distances are long—but the sense of community runs deep.
28. Maine’s Unique Accent
Maine has one of the most distinctive regional accents in the U.S. With dropped R’s and colorful expressions like "wicked good" and "ayuh," it reflects the state’s maritime and rural heritage. While the accent is fading in some areas, it remains a beloved and recognizable part of Maine’s identity.
29. Fort Knox and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge
Fort Knox in Prospect is one of the best-preserved 19th-century coastal fortifications in the U.S. Right next to it stands the Penobscot Narrows Bridge—with an observatory 420 feet above the river. It’s the tallest public bridge observatory in the world, offering panoramic views of the Penobscot River Valley.
30. Maine’s State Fish: Landlocked Salmon
Maine’s official state fish is the landlocked salmon—an Atlantic salmon species that lives entirely in freshwater. Known for their acrobatic jumps and excellent flavor, they’re a prized catch for anglers. Found in lakes like Sebago and Moosehead, they reflect Maine’s clean waters and deep fishing traditions.
31. Maine Has More Islands Than You Think
Maine has over 4,600 coastal islands, from bustling destinations like Mount Desert Island to uninhabited granite outcrops. Some can be visited by ferry or kayak, while others remain wild and untouched. These islands define Maine’s maritime identity and are a sanctuary for seabirds, seals, and those seeking true solitude.
32. Famous for Whoopie Pies
Maine’s official state treat is the whoopie pie—a sweet sandwich made of two chocolate cakes filled with creamy frosting. Origin stories vary, but Mainers claim it as their own. You’ll find whoopie pies in bakeries, convenience stores, and even at the annual Maine Whoopie Pie Festival in Dover-Foxcroft.
33. Maine’s Unique Flag History
Maine’s original 1901 state flag featured a green pine tree and blue star on a buff background. Though later replaced by a more complex design, the original has recently regained popularity. Its clean, simple symbolism has sparked a design revival on T-shirts, bumper stickers, and even legislative campaigns to bring it back.
34. Maine Has Its Own Time Zone History
In the 1800s, before standard time zones, towns in Maine each set their own local time based on the sun. Portland time differed from Bangor time! It wasn’t until railroads and the telegraph arrived that a standard time system took over—aligning Maine with the rest of the Eastern Time Zone.
35. The Longest Wooden Bridge Once Stood in Maine
At one point, Maine was home to the world’s longest wooden bridge: the Bangor-Brewer Bridge. Built in 1847 and stretching across the Penobscot River, it served for decades before being replaced. It’s a reminder of Maine’s resourcefulness—and the engineering feats born from timber and tide.
36. Largest Working Waterwheel in the U.S.
In the small town of Steep Falls sits the country’s largest functioning waterwheel. Once used to power local industry, this massive wooden wheel is now a historic landmark. It represents Maine’s early reliance on hydropower and the ingenuity that drove rural communities through the 19th century.
37. The First Ship Built in America
Maine is home to the birthplace of American shipbuilding. In 1607, the "Virginia of Sagadahoc" was constructed by English colonists near present-day Phippsburg. It was the first ocean-going ship built in the New World and laid the foundation for centuries of Maine’s maritime tradition and coastal craftsmanship.
38. Ice Harvesting Industry
Before refrigerators, Maine was a leader in the ice harvesting industry. Frozen lakes were cut into blocks and shipped worldwide in insulated holds. Towns like Gardiner and Bath thrived on ice exports. This chilly chapter of Maine’s history reveals the state’s knack for turning natural resources into booming industries.
39. Home to the World’s Largest Rotating Globe
Maine houses Eartha, the world’s largest rotating globe, located in Yarmouth at the headquarters of DeLorme (now Garmin). The 41-foot-diameter globe spins slowly, showing real topography and satellite imagery. It’s an unexpected roadside attraction that delights map lovers, students, and anyone curious about the world—and Maine’s place in it.
40. Maine Has a State Soft Drink
Moxie, Maine’s official soft drink, is an acquired taste with a fiercely loyal following. Created in the 19th century as a medicinal tonic, Moxie has a bold, herbal flavor unlike any other soda. It’s so iconic in Maine that “He’s got moxie” became a saying for strength and character.
41. The Appalachian Trail Ends (or Begins) Here
Mount Katahdin marks the northern terminus of the 2,190-mile Appalachian Trail. For many hikers, reaching the summit is a triumphant end to months of trekking. For others, it’s the start of a life-changing journey southbound. Either way, Katahdin is sacred ground for long-distance hikers across the country.
42. One of the Oldest Inns in America
The Jameson Tavern in Freeport claims to be “The Birthplace of Maine,” as it’s where the final papers for statehood were signed. Built in 1779, it has served as a stagecoach stop, tavern, and inn. Today, it’s a cozy place to grab a lobster roll with centuries of history behind it.
43. Maine’s Potato Blossom Festival
Held every summer in Fort Fairfield, the Maine Potato Blossom Festival celebrates Aroostook County’s farming heritage. It includes a parade, live music, potato-picking contests, and even mashed potato wrestling. The fields of pink and white blossoms are a unique and beautiful sight, honoring one of the state’s most important crops.
44. Maine Has No Billboard Ads
Billboards are banned in Maine, making it one of just four states with such a law. Passed in 1977, the ban helps preserve the state’s natural beauty and scenic byways. Travelers won’t find towering advertisements—just uninterrupted views of forests, coastline, and mountains. It’s part of what keeps Maine feeling wild.
45. State Motto: Dirigo
Maine’s Latin state motto is “Dirigo,” meaning “I lead.” It appears on the state seal and flag, symbolizing leadership, independence, and direction. The phrase also nods to Maine’s historical role in early American politics and its geographic position as the northeasternmost state in the U.S.
46. The Kennebec River Once Froze Solid
In the 1800s, the Kennebec River regularly froze solid enough to hold sled traffic and logging operations. Entire ice roads stretched across the river. Today, with warmer winters and changing weather, this phenomenon is rare. But it’s a striking example of how Mainers adapted to their extreme environment.
47. Maine’s Hidden Waterfalls
Maine is home to dozens of stunning waterfalls, many tucked away in the mountains or forested parks. From Moxie Falls (one of the tallest in New England) to Angel Falls near Rangeley, these hidden gems are worth the hike. They offer quiet beauty, cool mist, and great photo ops year-round.
48. L.L.Bean Never Closes
L.L.Bean’s flagship store in Freeport is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Since 1912, the iconic Maine-based brand has been outfitting adventurers with boots, flannels, and gear. Its Freeport campus is a major tourist destination, complete with a trout pond, boot statue, and outdoor discovery programs.
49. Maine Has a Ghost Town
Flagstaff Lake hides the submerged remains of Flagstaff Village, which was flooded in the 1950s to create a hydroelectric reservoir. Buildings were dismantled or abandoned, and today, the ghost town rests beneath the water’s surface. In dry seasons, old roads and cellar holes can still be found along the shore.
50. Mainers Are Proud, Resourceful, and Wicked Friendly
Ask anyone from Maine what makes it special, and you’ll hear about resilience, pride, and neighborliness. Mainers are known for their independence and no-nonsense attitude—tempered by a wicked good sense of humor. Whether you’re from here or “from away,” Maine has a way of making you feel right at home.
Bonus Fun Fact: Maine Has a Town Named After a Poem
Maine is home to the town of Mexico, which sits next to a town named Peru. But one of the most poetic names belongs to Lovell’s tiny village of "Poet’s Seat," inspired by the area's literary heritage. Many Maine towns have charming, unexpected names that reflect history, humor, or local pride.