There is so much in Northern New England just waiting to be explored this year, no matter what you love to do for fun. Delve deep into the great outdoors at gorgeous, sprawling national forests, explore Maine's contributions to art in America, learn more about the family one of history's most notable figures, spend a day at the spa, or discover a new way to travel around Maine's stunning mountains. The choice is yours. Our real estate agents have all of the exciting details on 5 places that are well worth exploring in Northern New England this year.

• Farnsworth Art Museum – 16 Museum St., Rockland, ME 04841
  The Farnsworth Art Museum is the perfect place to start for anyone who loves art, with more than 20,000 square feet of exhibit space to explore. Home to over 15,000 works of art from some of the country's most prominent artists from past and present, the mission of the Farnsworth Art Museum is to celebrate Maine's role in American art. In addition to the vast permanent collections, the museum features rotating exhibitions so there is always something new to see. Interested in creating your own art? The Farnsworth Art Museum has you covered there, too! There are some great classes available for aspiring artists, like Basic Drawing, Gift-making Inspired by Art, and Beginning Watercolor. More experienced artists will appreciate events like the Painters Forum, Watercolor Cohort, and Watercolor Challenge.
  
  
• Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests – 231 N. Main St., Rutland, VT 05701
  There's nothing quite like exploring the great outdoors, which is easy to do when you live in Northern New England near the spectacular Green Mountain and Finger Lakes National Forests. These two incredible forests span two states, with Green Mountain National Forest in Vermont and Finger Lakes National Forest in New York. The larger of the two forests, Green Mountain National Forest covers more than 400,000 acres. Finger Lakes National Forest stretches for 16,212 acres, located between the scenic Cayuga and Seneca Lakes. Both forests feature extensive trail systems, perfect for some rugged outdoor recreation. If you love camping, you can choose from both developed and backcountry campsites in both forests to suit your taste. These are great locations for hiking, mountain biking, fishing, and even horseback riding on some trails.
  
  
• Hildene – The Lincoln Family Home – 1005 Hildene Rd., Manchester, VT 05254
  Take a trip through history and learn more about the family of one of America's most prominent historical figures when you visit Hildene – The Lincoln Family Home. Built at the turn of the 20th century by the only surviving child of Mary Todd and Abraham Lincoln, Hildene is a beautiful example of the architecture of the time. It was inhabited by members of the Lincoln family all the way until 1975, after which it eventually became a historic site that many love to visit. Today, you can explore the stately mansion, along with 14 other historic buildings spread around the 412-acre estate. While you're there, you'll discover stories about the Lincoln family, see unique artifacts from throughout the estate's history, and learn even more from knowledgeable tour guides. There are also extensive educational programs and youth camps available at Hildene for children of all ages.
  
  
• The Soaking Pot Infusion Spa – 2 Common Court, Unit H45, North Conway, NH 03860
  What better way to rejuvenate your mind and body after all of that exploration than a day at the spa? The Soaking Pot Infusion Spa provides a luxurious, stress-relieving experience with so many different ways to treat yourself. The spa specializes in infusion soaks from four different categories, lasting for 30 minutes or one hour each. Try a calming soak, invigorating soak, soothing soak, or balancing soak. Then choose from lovely add-ons like soothing and hydrating treatments for the head, neck, shoulders, legs, and arms, or a 20-minute mini-facial. There's also a great selection of teas and light snacks to enjoy while you relax.
  
  
• Ultimate Dog Sledding Experience – 65 Main St., Oxford, ME 04270
  Travel around Maine in a whole new way when you book a trip with Ultimate Dog Sledding Experience. Their team (and sled dogs) lead excursions around Maine's western mountains in one or two-hour sessions. Other tours include their scenic mountain tour, romance package, or intro to dog sledding. Make sure to book your trip online early, especially during the winter season. Plus, they are located conveniently close to the Oxford Casino or Wolf Cove Inn if you want to make a weekend trip out of your dog sledding experience.

When you're ready to buy or sell your next home close to all of the amazing attractions around Northern New England, our local real estate team is here to help. Contact us to buy and sell homes in your favorite Northern New England communities.