With its jagged coastline, wind-swept Atlantic beaches and pine-covered forests, New England’s northernmost state is a magnet for nature lovers. After a day of whale watching, exploring historic lighthouses or driving along winding country roads to take in spectacular fall foliage, couples can hole up by the fire in charming colonial-style inns while enjoying some of the country’s freshest seafood.
Wedding Requirements Getting married in Maine is relatively simple. Couples can visit the town office in person to apply for a license, which is valid for 90 days. There is no waiting period, so you can marry the day the license is issued. No blood tests are required, but you will need a photo ID. For more information, visit maine.gov.
What to Do
Acadia National Park Maine’s raw beauty is at its most radiant on Mount Desert Island. The isle boasts 47,000-acre Acadia National Park (one of America’s oldest parks) and was once the summer residence of some of the country’s wealthiest families, including the Rockefellers and Astors. Hike or bike along the 54 miles of scenic carriage roads -- stone byways laid by the Rockefellers in 1913. Feeling adventurous? Climb to the top of Cadillac Mountain, the East Coast’s tallest peak. Back in town, stroll the shop-lined streets of pretty Bar Harbor, where you can buy locally made pottery, share an ice-cream cone or take a romantic sunset cruise around Frenchman Bay.
Visit a Lighthouse Home to more than 60 of the iconic beacons, Maine has been dubbed the Lighthouse State. Although modern technology has rendered most of them obsolete, these beloved coastal landmarks still triumphantly stand guard in many harbors. Some of the most well known include Cape Neddick Light Station (aka Nubble Light), in York, dating from 1879; Goat Island Light, on an islet in Kennebunkport; and red-and-white-striped West Quoddy Head Light, the easternmost lighthouse in the United States. These historic buildings are prime photo ops for weddings, but be sure to check beforehand to find out which ones are open to the public.
Maine Lobster and Other Fresh Seafood Lobster lovers won’t be disappointed with the endless ways to indulge in this delicious crustacean -- for lunch, head to casual places like Stewman’s, on Bar Harbor, or Red’s Eats, in Wiscasset, for yummy lobster rolls and french fries. Posh restaurants like Kennebunk’s White Barn Inn and Portland’s Fore Street serve up expertly prepared lobster dishes from celebrated chefs. In true Maine fashion, hold a wedding reception or a welcome party on the beach, where guests can feast on clambake fare like lobster, steamers, clam “chowdah,” corn on the cob and blueberry pie.
Off the Beaten Path
Antiques Antique admirers, take note: Maine has several dedicated routes on which you can browse classic Americana (hand-stitched quilts or Revolutionary War-era lanterns), folk art, old nautical equipment, Victorian jewelry and 19th-century furniture. Many shops can be found along the South Coast Trail (U.S. Route 1), which starts in York and passes through Ogunquit, Wells and Kennebunkport. There’s also the meandering Downeast Trail, beginning in Ellsworth and traveling through the charming communities of Blue Hill and Stonington. — Jill Fergus
