Ultimate Weekend Getaway to York, Maine: Complete Itinerary

by Anthony

York is a small town situated in southern Maine that features beaches, local restaurants, hiking trails, and more. Spots like the Nubble Lighthouse and the Portland Headlight offer great photo opportunities and chances to learn more about the history of the state. Beaches like Ogunquit Beach and Marginal Way offer a chance to catch a fresh ocean breeze during your weekend in York, Maine. 

Make sure to save this guide for a complete list of the best things to do during a weekend in York, Maine. Also, share this guide with a friend so they can see all that York, Maine has to offer!



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Day 1

Nubble Lighthouse – Weekend in York, Maine

Man standing out noble lighthouse in York, Maine

Starting the day with a sunrise at the Nubble lighthouse

Start a weekend in York, Maine by heading to the Nubble Lighthouse. Also known as Cape Neddick Light, the Nubble Lighthouse is an iconic beacon located on a rocky island that is called the Nubble.

The lighthouse was established in 1879 and remains an iconic landmark of Southern Maine.

It can be seen from Sohier Park on the mainland which offers free parking and a gift shop during summer months. The Cape is an excellent spot for photography, lovers and tourists.

We decided to visit a double lighthouse during sunrise. The morning glow with the dark blue ocean provided a breathtaking start to the day.

 Visiting during early hours of the day is highly recommended as crowds increase toward the morning and throughout the day.

Mount Agamenticus –Weekend in York, Maine

Top of Mount Agamenticus in York, Maine

Views from the top of Mount Agamenticus in York, Maine

After the lighthouse, a weekend in York, Maine is not complete without a visit to Mount Agamenticus or mount A for short.

It sits above York at 692 feet and is the highest point in the town.

The Agamenticus conservation region covers over 10,000 acres of forest which visitors can explore on hiking trails during the summer and snowshoeing during the winter.

There is a road to reach the top of the mountain by car, but It can also be hiked. At the top of Mount A, there is a small platform that provides panoramic views of the forest below.

On clear days, it is possible to see the Boston skyline to the south, Cape Elizabeth, to the north, and the presidential range, which includes Mount Washington, to the west.

Mount Agamenticus is open year-round. Parking and admission fees apply from April 15 to November 15, which go to conservation efforts. Dogs are not allowed on the trails to protect wildlife but can be brought on a leash to the top of the mountain.

Marginal Way Weekend in York, Maine

Man standing near Ogunquit Beach in York, Maine

Walking along the Marginal Way trail during a weekend in York, Maine

A trip to the beach must also be included during a weekend in York, Maine. What better place to visit than Marginal Way.

This 1.25-mile paved footpath along the coastline of Ogunquit, Maine offers ocean views and access to beaches and tide pools.

The path starts at Perkins Cove, which is a charming fishing village and connects to Ogunquit Beach.

The parking for Marginal Way can be found off Cottage Street at the northwest end of the trail. Parking fees also apply during the weekday. After parking head east toward Shore Rd And turn left on Marginal Way where the path begins.

In addition to the beautiful ocean views, make sure to, look for the Lobster Point Lighthouse!

For a detailed map of Marginal Way, view the trail on Alltrails.

Ogunquit Beach Weekend in York, Maine

Surfer in Ocean in Ogunquit, Maine

A surfer waits to catch a wave in Ogunquit Beach, Maine

After a visit to Marginal Way, it is time to take in more views of the coast at Ogunquit Beach. The beach features a 3.5-mile stretch of pristine white sand, which makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists. 

The beach features three main sections: main beach footbridge beach in North Beach. Each of these points offers unique access points and amenities. For parking, there are several lots with varying fees and hours of operation. Keep in mind that all parking fees start on April 19.

During the summer months, make sure to visit Algonquin Beach early in the day to secure a good spot to relax on the sand.



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Portland Head Light

Portland headlight in Portland, Maine

Taking the perfect photograph of the Portland Headlight

On the second day of a weekend in York Maine, it is time to take a road trip up north. After breakfast, head on I-95 North toward Portland to visit the Portland Headlight.

This Lighthouse has a fascinating history. It is the state’s oldest lighthouse and it was commissioned by George Washington and first lit in 1971.

The port headlight also features a museum housed in the keeper’s corners that exhibits the lighthouse’s history. The museum can be visited from Memorial Day to Thanksgiving from 10 AM to 4 PM.

The lighthouse is located on Fort Williams Park, which spans 90 acres and features picnic areas, walking trails, and historic forts with panoramic ocean views!

During the summer months, look out for food trucks that offer a variety of dishes, including lobster rolls, and local fare.

The Portland headlight is also another great spot for photography, and this Lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in America.

Lunch at Flatbread Co 

Cacoo Bay with two yellow boats in Portland, Maine

This was my view out the window in Flatbread Co during my weekend in York, Maine

Next, head to Flatbread Company for a delicious pizza. The restaurant is located right along the coast in Portland and offers woodfired flatbread with organic and locally sourced ingredients.

Be sure to sit in the back, or even outside during summer months, to get a scenic view of Casco Bay.

I ordered the fall harvest pizza that came with squash, cranberries, kale, mozzarella, parmesan, garlic oil, and herbs. It was very savory and paired with local beer, it did not disappoint!

Shopping in Freeport

Man next to the boat at LL Bean factory in Freeport, Maine

Standing near the famous boot at the LL Bean store in Freeport, Maine

Finally, no weekend in York, Maine is complete without some shopping. For this, head to Freeport, which is north of Portland on I-95.

This town features the L.L. Bean flagship store which was established in 1912 and offers a vast selection of outdoor gear and equipment. You’ll probably see everyone with L.L. bean gear as Mainers consider this brand a staple!

During the late fall, the store is decorated with lights and Christmas decor and offers a nice charm to the surrounding area.

Freeport also offers other outdoor Clothing stores, so there is something for everybody. The outlets in Freeport hold shops, like Nike and H&M, while local boutiques offer jewelry and pottery.

Click here to visit Freeport, Maine’s official website for more on planning your adventure



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Conclusion

The goal of this guide is to provide a complete itinerary for a weekend in York, Maine geared for tourists and those new to the area.

Your main has the perfect blend of natural beauty, New England, charm, and Relaxing retreats.

Whether you’re exploring Ogunquit Beach, Nubble White House, or Mount A, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the town.

A weekend in York, Maine captures the essence of coastal New England. This guide provides an adventure that is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression on anyone who chooses to visit.

Please feel free to comment and leave any questions on anything specific listed in the guide.



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