A person hiking at a Maine park in fall.

BLOG

Down East Fall Foliage Food Tour

There is nothing quite like autumn in New England. If you prefer to take a long weekend trip this fall, there is nothing better than driving up the coast of Maine. Before planning your trip, always check with Maine’s foliage web page for accurate and up to date foliage conditions. Maine’s color-coded chart indicates very low, low, moderate, high, peak and past peak conditions to ensure the most ultimate scenic views. 

Spectators and artists alike become inspired by nature’s colors when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange and yellow. Particularly, chefs all around Maine use the season’s colorful abundance to inspire the dishes they create. While you take in the view, fuel your adventurous appetite at some of the trendiest food destinations in the area. Maine chefs have been gaining national attention, and places of honor on countless lists, as must-visit destinations for foodies.

If you’re looking for the best of both worlds, breathtaking foliage paired with a strong food game, here are three of Maine’s best destinations for fall culinary travel:

Acadia National Park (located in Bar Harbor, Maine) has some of the most memorable sights along with an explosion of changing colors. The 40-mile road provides some of the most breathtaking landscapes. You can spend the day or camp overnight. Acadia National Park has plenty of bike and hiking trails and can accommodate all outdoorsy abilities. For lunch, tea time, or dinner, stop by Jordan Pond House. The small restaurant offers scenic outdoor dining overlooking the impressive natural surroundings.

Camden Hills State Park is a lush 5,700-acre park overlooking the Penobscot Bay. The foliage boasts a stunning backdrop of both the mountains and the sea. The trails can accommodate biking, hiking and horse trails. For lunch and dinner, consider Natalie’s – just 2.1 miles from the Camden Hills State Park. Natalie’s provides some of the most exciting cuisines in the state offering both a fine dining experience and a more casual option. Reservations are accepted and menus are available online.

If you are looking for something a bit smaller with less hiking and more structure, Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is your destination. There are cart tours and boat tours, along with walking paths to view the stunning trees and spectacular, ever-changing vegetation. For lunch or a quick snack, stop in at the Kitchen Garden Café in the heart of the gardens. If they don’t grow themselves, they purchase it locally.

"There are so many special places in Maine, but if you’re looking for impeccable service and some serious pampering, this is the place."

Heather C. Bowdoinham, Maine

Skip to content