Vacation in Maine? Water, woods, the arts and adventure

Whitewater

Whitewater trips are available on several Maine rivers. My favorite outfitter is Moxie Outdoor Adventures, based in West Forks, which offers an all-day Kennebec River trip that's part paddling like crazy through Class IV rapids and part scenic wilderness float trip. Midday, boats are beached on an island where guides cook steak and chicken over a fire. On one trip, we even saw a moose en route to our launch spot. Warning: You will get soaked. Bring a quick-drying fleece to wear over a swimsuit and shoes (not flip-flops) to wear in the water.

Moose

You can find moose-watching tours on land and water. I've enjoyed sunset boat trips to see moose on Moosehead Lake, but as with any such excursion, there are no guarantees that you'll see the wildlife you came for. In rural and northern areas, moose present serious driving hazards, especially at dawn, dusk and after dark, so watch out (and be careful what you wish for).

For kids

Portland Children's Museum is fun for a rainy day. Aquaboggan Water Park in Saco offers slides, wave pools and mini-golf. Old-fashioned fairs take place around the state all summer, featuring rides, games, farm animal displays and more. One friend told me his little girl's favorite Maine outing was chasing butterflies at the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens.

Shopping

Freeport is home to dozens of outlet stores along with the flagship for L.L. Bean. Take your picture in front of the massive boot by the Bean entrance. Note for insomniacs: Bean's flagship is open 24/7.