Planning A Day Trip to Peaks Island, Maine!
Peaks Island is a short (under 20 minutes) ferry ride away from Portland. Making it an easy spot to check out for a day. We love visiting the warmer months. Between the beautiful views and great pizza it is a great day trip! Here is how we make the most out of our day on this beautiful island.
Check the Casco Bay Ferry Line schedule.
Give yourself time to get to Portland and park. There is a garage next to the ferry terminal but on busy days it can fill up. Always give yourself more time. If you’re really early then you can grab a treat at Standard Baking Co before you have to get to your ferry.
Purchase your round trip ticket here in Portland.
We like to take the 9:15am or the 10:15am ferry over. This gives us time to enjoy Peaks Island, and not feel rushed.
There is a break in ferry service around lunch time. The first ferry back (2:15 in the summer) after that break can be very busy. Just something to be aware of as you make your plans.
You can bring your bike with you, but we like to rent a bike for a couple of hours from Brad’s Bike rental. It is affordable and you don’t have to worry about transporting your bike before or after you’re done riding it.
You can find Brad’s Bike Shop on Facebook and Instagram.
When you arrive on Peaks Island this is when we like to pick up the bike rentals and work up a little appetite. We have rented from Brad’s Bike shop, which is located just a short walk when you’re off the ferry on the main road toward the left. The main loop around the island is about 4 miles. There are a few stops to check out along the way. As well as admiring the beautiful ocean.
View from the back porch of the 5th Maine Museum!
Some spots to stop at we have enjoyed around the island-
Down Front clothing, gifts, ice cream, souvenirs
Ocean views as you tour around the island are just beautiful!
After we have grabbed our bike rental we tend to go counter clockwise around the island stopping at some of the beautiful spots along our way. Like the 5th Maine Museum. This hall was built in 1888 by the veterans of the 5th Maine regiment as a memorial and reunion hall. It is worth stopping by to check out at least once.
There are many islands in Casco Bay, and Peaks Island has great vantage points of other islands and Portland.
The whole island has fantastic views.
As you continue on biking around the island there are a couple spots to stop & enjoy the view or take a walk. After we have biked the loop it is time for a drink and maybe a treat. After we return the bikes we stop at Baba’s Cafe grab an ice tea and maybe a treat. There are seats inside but also a deck to sit sip the tea and take in the views. After treats have been devoured and our legs rested it is time to walk a bit. This is your chance to check out the gift shop and the Umbrella Cover museum.
Il Leone pizza is legit!
After you learned of the Guinness World record for umbrella covers it is time for pizza. Walk on down to the end of Island Ave to Il Leone Pizza. This outdoor wood-fired pizza is not to be missed! You order your pizza at the counter and find a seat at a picnic table in a tree covered area. It is a nice spot to end the day.
Our Favorite New England Breweries We Have Stopped at… so far
The best breweries we have visited so far in New England
Tuckerman Brewing Company
Our original brewery. Well, at least in terms of drinking their beer. I’ve been a fan of Tuckerman beer since my college days—way back when dinosaurs roamed the Earth (or at least before cellphones where a thing). They didn’t always have a restaurant, and I’m not exactly sure when they opened their tasting room, but it’s been a few years now.
Located in Conway, NH, Tuckerman has an awesome vibe. They serve a variety of pizzas and, of course, beer. A sampler is always a fun way to go if you like to mix things up. The main indoor space is wide open, featuring beautiful images of Mt. Washington, which is fitting since you might need a beer (or two) after hiking it. They also have a large lawn area, food trucks, and live music on occasion. If you’re in the area, check them out—I know I always do!
Tuckerman Brewing Company - Conway, NH
Zero Gravity
Located in Burlington, VT, Zero Gravity will forever be on my “must-do” list when we’re back in the area. Their Beer Hall has a cool, cozy vibe, with comfy couches mixed in among the tables and a rich, dark-wood interior. It’s a great spot for the whole family—because yes, even kids appreciate a comfy seat while their parents sip craft beer.
The food here? Absolutely amazing. And for non-beer drinkers like Mike, they even brew their own non-alcoholic beer called Rescue Club—As they state on their website: “The people make the party, not the alcohol”. The menu features unique options like kale salads and rice bowls alongside classic burgers. A win-win!
Stoneface Brewing Co.
This one is a local favorite for us. Their menu constantly evolves, but they keep some delicious staples that never disappoint. Every time we eat here, we leave full and happy, which is really the only acceptable way to leave a brewery.
It’s a great place to meet up with friends, grab a quick bite on your way north, or just sit and enjoy a solid meal with a great beer. Trust me—the food and beer here are worth the stop.
*No pictures! I guess when you go often & you love it so much you don’t take as many pictures! Will update next time we visit though. Just trust us the food and vibes are immaculate.
Whalers Brewing Company
This one was new to us. On a recent trip to Rhode Island, we decided to check out Whalers, but there was one thing we didn’t realize—they serve beer. And only beer. Yep, that’s it.
We went in a bit naïve (okay, maybe just me) because I assumed every brewery would have at least something non-alcoholic. You know, a rogue can of soda hiding in the back. Not here! But what we did learn is that you’re welcome to bring your own non-alcoholic drinks. They even have menus for local takeout spots, or you can bring your own food while you sip their beer.
The space itself is great—various seating options, a couple of pool tables, and cornhole. It’s the perfect spot to hang out with friends, even if you need to BYO-Soda. They are also dog friendly! So you can bring your fur babies here as long as they remain on their leash, so cool!
Maine Beer Company
Maine Beer Co. makes one of my all-time favorite beers—Lunch. (Yes, that’s the name, and yes, it’s absolutely delicious.) I also love Dinner. And yes they do have a Breakfast beer, I haven’t tried it, yet! But I am sure it is amazing!
While driving through Freeport, I discovered they have a tasting room and serve pizza. And let me tell you, the pizza is fantastic. The setup: a host seats you, but you order your beer and food at the bar. The restaurant is bright, open, and airy, with a great view into the brewing area. If you’re anywhere near Freeport, this is a stop worth making!
Schilling Beer Co.
Located in Littleton, NH, Schilling is an absolute gem. The brewery is housed in a rustic old home, perched right on a river next to a covered bridge. It’s basically the most picturesque brewery setting imaginable.
The ambiance is cozy—with exposed beams, rustic wood charm, and that warm, welcoming feeling that makes you want to stay a while. And while their beer is great, let’s talk about the food. The pretzel appetizer? I know you can’t see me, but I’m actually drooling just thinking about it. Their pizza ranks among my all-time favorites.
We love stopping here after a hike or a ski trip up north. And if you’re in Littleton, the whole town is worth a visit—quaint bakeries, fun shops, and of course, Schilling itself.
We have not been to all the breweries this list is our personal favorite places we highly recommend them all! As we discover new spots we will keep updating this list.
Best Family Hikes
Taking a family trip to New England and want to get out and hike? Check out the best hikes for each age group for your family.
Want to get the entire family into hiking? Not sure where to begin or who to trust with your hike plans? Look no further—we've got you covered!
White Mountains NH
Mt. Agamenticus in York, Maine
Perfect for all ages! If you have preschoolers or beginners, this is the best little mountain to start with. There are multiple trails, some longer and some shorter. The Ring Trail, when followed clockwise from the parking lot, features a seasonal story maintained by the Friends of Mt. A. The Ring Trail circles the mountain without reaching the summit, but several trails branching off lead to the top.
I personally love the Ring Trail not only for the story but also for the views and the old ski lift from when Mt. A had skiing. The trail is just under 2 miles, and the mountain's total elevation is 692 feet. The views from the top are beautiful—you can see the ocean and, on a clear day, well into the White Mountains of New Hampshire. Dogs on a leash are welcome, so bring the entire family! Plus, if you hit this one early in the day, you can finish with a bagel and iced chai from the Bagel Basket.
Mt A
Mt. Major in Alton, NH
We love this mountain and have so many fond memories of hiking it as a family with friends. Located not far from Gunstock, it was a perfect step up from Mt. A and still close to home, or at least our home.
There are a few trails here. The Boulder Loop Trail (marked with blue blazes) offers a more direct route to the summit. Alternatively, you can take the Mount Major Trail, which involves a good amount of rock climbing, or opt for the Brook Trail, which is a little longer but less steep. The overall elevation here is about 1,800 feet, and depending on the trail, your round-trip mileage will be approximately 3.1 miles with an elevation gain of over 1,100 feet.
This mountain is perfect for the entire family, including dogs on leashes! Elementary-age kids are the sweet spot here—it’s a great confidence-building hike.
Mt. Kearsarge in Warner, NH
The trailhead is located in Winslow State Park. This mountain is a bit more challenging than Mt. Major. The round-trip hike is about 3 miles but involves a steeper ascent.
We hiked the Winslow Trail up and the Barlow Trail down. The elevation gain is about 1,100 feet, and the mountain's overall elevation is just over 3,000 feet. The 360-degree views of the White Mountains and into Vermont are incredible.
The ascent is steep but just challenging enough for kids and dogs (on leash). At the summit, there is a fire tower (usually closed to the public) and a picnic table area. Keep in mind that there is a fee to enter the park. Perfect for older elementary kids and older.
Mt. Willard in Crawford Notch, NH
The Mount Willard Trail starts at Saco Lake by the old train station. This trail is about 3.1 miles round-trip with approximately 900 feet of elevation gain.
There are a few water crossings and some rocky terrain, but the trail is well-marked. The summit, at about 2,900 feet above sea level, offers a stunning, jaw-dropping view of the Crawford Notch area, including the beautiful Willey Mountain Range. If you time your hike right, you can even catch a glimpse of the scenic railroad train passing through the notch.
Fall can be very busy, but the views are stunning year-round. We prefer to avoid peak season to enjoy the trail without the crowds. We love this hike for a step up from Mt A elementary age kids and older. There are no rock climbing or scrambling. We appreciate the lack of any technical aspects of this hike. Perfect for beginners or experts alike!
Basin Cascade Trail in Lincoln, NH
This trail is accessible from the Franconia Notch Bike Path and is perfect for even the littlest hikers. You can push an off-road stroller for much of the trail after the pavement ends.
The trail follows a series of waterfalls and smoothed rocks, creating a beautiful and unique hike. There are deep pools where people wade and cool off. You can hike as far as you like, but the full out-and-back trail is about 2.6 miles. The trail increases in steepness as you go, with the lower sections being the busiest. Because that is where the view is.
There is a fee for parking, and it is strictly enforced due to the trail's popularity.
Diana’s Baths in Bartlett, NH
A must-do activity if you're visiting the North Conway area! This easy hike is part of the U.S. National Forest System, so there is a self-pay kiosk for parking, and the lot can get busy on popular weekends.
This hike is perfect for little ones and grandparents alike. It’s a short walk to the viewpoint area. While there are some rocks to climb if you want to get closer to the water, climbing is not necessary to enjoy the view.
If you like this list or want more suggestions check out our podcast for more details about all of these hikes and other outdoor adventures Around New England.
Thanks Mike & G.