Maine is a state that’s brimming with exceptional places to visit for a weekend away from home. We got a lovely guide to Maine on offMetro. In this post, we’ll focus on Pet-friendly weekend trips to Maine. If you’re traveling with a pet then it’s arguably easier to pick and choose your ideal destination from the long list of options.
Here are just a few to get you started, along with some tips on what it takes to travel with a pet without the stress!
A Coastal Retreat at Bar Harbor
Venture to the tranquil town of Bar Harbor, Maine, where you and your furry friend can drink in breath-taking coastal views.
With many pet-friendly establishments waiting with open doors, including lavish hotels and cozy restaurants, you never have to worry about leaving them behind.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
For those adventurous tails wagging with excitement, the vast land and sea opens up an array of outdoor activities like hiking in Acadia National Park or swimming in its surrounding oceans. Just be sure to respect nature by keeping them leashed when necessary, thus safeguarding not just their own safety but also preserving Maine’s beloved wildlife.
Enjoying the Great Outdoors in Baxter State Park
If you and your pet are avid nature lovers, a visit to Baxter State Park should be on your weekend itinerary. Here you can immerse yourselves in this vast wilderness area covering over 200,000 acres of beautiful forests, majestic mountains, and pristine lakes.
Rest assured that there are plenty of trails for you and your pet to explore together. Also, make a stop at different viewing points along the way. Not only does it give your pet a chance to rest but it also offers ample opportunities for picturesque photo shoots.
Watch this video to learn more:
Seaside Bliss: Explore Old Orchard Beach
Nothing says vacation quite like a day at the beach. Make your way to Old Orchard Beach for some sun, surf, and sand that not only you but also your beloved pet can enjoy.
This seven-mile stretch of sandy shoreline promises an ideal playground for throwing frisbees, splashing in the shallows, or simple strolls.
Keep in mind that during peak summer months (May 15 through to Labor Day) dogs are only allowed on the beach between 6 AM and 9 AM. Outside of this season, they can hit the sand at any time.
Even if you don’t take them onto the beach, as evening draws near you can stroll along the famous Pier decked in vibrant hues, where numerous pet-friendly eateries serve scrumptious seafood delicacies. You’ll both be salivating at the smells that waft your way!
Watch this video to get some more tips:
Discover Historic Charm in Kennebunkport
A trip to Maine is often one steeped in the past, and you can bring your pet on a journey through time at charming Kennebunkport. With a history spanning hundreds of years, dog-friendly walking tours around the town are a delight for pets and owners alike.
Main Street, adorned with quaint shops and centuries-old architecture, is a parade ground for your furry friends to strut their stuff. Many local establishments boast water bowls outside their doors, along with resident dogs eager to meet new buddies.
For those who crave an off-leash thrill, Goose Rocks Beach welcomes all dogs during non-summer months. And remember that there are beaches that you don’t need a car to reach, so check these out if a road trip to Maine isn’t doable for you.
Watch this video to learn more:
Exploring the Wilderness of Moosehead Lake
Your next option is to embark on an unforgettable adventure with your pet to Moosehead Lake, which is the largest in the state. With hundreds of miles of shoreline and countless islands, this relatively secluded destination offers you and your furry companion a unique chance to revel in nature’s solitude.
Hiking trails abound, so you can opt for a leisurely lakeside walk or challenge yourselves with more rugged forest treads. The decision entirely depends on how frisky those four-legged friends are feeling!
For water-loving dogs, set sail into calm turquoise waters where they can practice their doggy paddle in sheer delight. Just keep in mind that pets should always wear life preservers when onboard any watercraft, just like their human owners!
At nightfall, cozy up at one of the numerous pet-friendly cabins dotting the lakeshore, experiencing total tranquility together.
Watch this video to learn more tips:
How To Keep Your Dog Calm While Traveling
Travel can sometimes prove stressful for our pets, leading to restlessness or anxiety. When embarking on a road trip with your furry companion, it’s essential to ensure their comfort and calm throughout the journey.
First and foremost, plan frequent rest stops to allow your dog to stretch their legs, relieve themselves, and burn off some energy. Familiarity is key, so Paws Into Grace recommends bringing their favorite toys, bedding, and even a piece of your clothing to provide a sense of security in an unfamiliar environment.
Maintain a consistent feeding and bathroom schedule to reduce anxiety, and consider investing in a doggy seat belt or travel crate to keep them secure during the ride. Lastly, keep your dog entertained with soothing music or an audiobook to create a relaxing atmosphere within the vehicle, making the road trip a pleasant experience for both of you.
Another excellent solution to ease their discomfort is dog CBD oil. This natural supplement has gained popularity among pet owners due to its calming effects on animals dealing with stress and nervousness.
When administered correctly, which often means starting with small doses and adjusting as needed, it can help smooth out your pet’s travel experience significantly. Do be sure to get your vet’s advice before using a supplement of any kind, or if you’re noticing any anxious behavior in your pet, whatever the circumstances.
Wrangling a Travel Routine
Maintaining a regular routine is key to keeping your pets comfortable and happy during your Maine getaway. Road trips can be particularly challenging, as being cooped up in the car might disrupt their usual schedule. Here are some simple strategies to help maintain consistency:
- Map out rest stops ahead of time: Use apps or websites that indicate pet-friendly areas where you can break for bathroom needs, feeding times, or just some much needed stretching.
- Stick to meal schedules: Try to replicate your pet’s eating routine at home even on vacation days. Be sure not to stray from their usual diet either, since unfamiliar foods might upset their stomachs.
In short, understanding and respecting your pets’ habits helps reduce unnecessary stress when traveling, meaning the memories you make together will all be positive ones.
Finding Suitable Accommodation
Choosing the right place to stay on your trip to Maine can make a significant difference when traveling with your pet. Not all boarding options are fur baby-friendly, so it’s important to do some research beforehand. Here are some guidelines:
- Check policies: Every hotel or Airbnb has a unique set of rules pertaining to pets, so ensure you’re fully informed before making reservations.
- Consider amenities: A yard or nearby park can be advantageous for energetic dogs needing space for playful romps.
- Think about comfort: Locations offering special beddings or toys might help make your pet feel more at home during their stay.
A good night’s sleep in comfortable surroundings will refresh both humans and dogs alike, ultimately leading towards successful explorations in Maine, so don’t rush past this aspect of your planning.
Final Thoughts
That’s a wrap on our overview of Maine’s best locations for a pet-focused weekend trip. If you’re inspired, start planning now, as the earlier you get down to brass tacks, the easier you’ll find the journey when the day finally arrives.
Alex is a computer geek, programmer, who loves traveling. Not the usual mix, but Alex is always with his laptop – no matter how high the mountain he’s hiking on. On every peak he reaches, he writes a story that captures it all.
Sarah Knapp is a Brooklyn based entrepreneur whose love for the outdoors and community building led her to the October 2013 creation of OutdoorFest. She has a BA in History, is a Wilderness First Responder and a NY state hiking, camp and boating guide. Her proudest achievement to date is reading the Aeneid in Latin. 
Allison was one of our first top writers and Chief Editor but is no longer working with offMetro. Allison is a native New Yorker, who has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne, Toronto and Los Angeles. She frequently contributed travel pieces to Family Travel Forum, using her own children as guinea pigs as they travel the globe. She never missed a chance to sample local delicacies, as her love for travel goes hand-in-hand with her love for food and wine. 
Josh Laskin is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. When he is not at work or on the road, you can find him in the mountains snowboarding, climbing, hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and eating bagel bites.
Annie is a travel writer, environmentalist, and surfer based in Venice, CA. She heads up our West Coast team, keeps our grammatical errors in check, and makes sure our California writers always have a plan for their next adventure. Follow Annie’s travels @annelisemcb.
Carly Pifer is a freelance writer who has been known to follow whims inspired by romantic movie scenes or colorful street style shots to India, Japan, Tunisia and Argentina. After stints living in Seoul, Boston, Paris and Los Angeles, writing and searching for something intangible, she landed somewhat steadily in Brooklyn and has begun to find inspiration in her more immediate surroundings. 
Kate E. O’Hara is a New York based freelance writer and photographer who loves all things food—especially the people who make it and market it. Her writing aims to capture the essence of the food experience; the stories that go well beyond a plate of ingredients. In addition to her love of food, Kate is also known to have a hankering for red wine and craft beer. You can also find Kate on Instagram