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Maine is known for its coastal views, lighthouse, and, of course, lobster rolls! But did you know Vacationland also has some fantastic cocktail bars? Nothing is better than finding a cocktail bar that puts effort and creativity into its drinks. Spending an evening sipping handcrafted cocktails with bold flavors can be fun. Here are my choices for the best cocktail bars in Maine, from a local!

The Best Cocktail Bars In Maine

1. The Abbey

Location: Brunswick, Maine

One of the best cocktail bars in Maine opened its doors last year, The Abbey. This hotspot is a coffee bar and cocktail bar. I come here for my morning brew and return later in the day to sip on some hand-crafted cocktails. I love their decor, friendly customer service, and delicious food and drinks.

They are always changing their menu, bringing me back time and time again. I was happy to try the Bloodless Mary, which was a fresh and unique take on the Bloody Mary. It had Tomato confit olive oil washed vodka, dry vermouth, green chile, nixta elote, celery bitters, chili oil, pickled red onion

We also tried the Thai Me A River, which had Rums, thai basil, thai chili tincture, coconut milk, makrut lime leaf, pineapple, lime.

Their drink list is so creative and the cocktails are even more delicious. I can’t wait to come back all summer long!

2. Round Turn Distilling

Location: Biddeford, Maine

Round Turn Distilling is in a 150-year-old textile mill on the Saco River, five miles from the Maine coast. They are famous for their Bimini Gin, which you have probably seen in your local Maine grocery store or favorite bar.

We found Round Turn Distilling during one of our road trips through Maine and have returned a few times since. Once you enter, you will see the small but lively room with plenty of tables and rustic decor.

They had a variety of bright, colorful, and delicious cocktails for us to try! Including Spice Island, which had bimini gin, lime, raw sugar, ginger beer, and bitters. It was sweet, spicy, delicious

3. Blyth & Burrows

Location: Portland, Maine

If you are visiting Portland, Maine, you must visit Blyth & Burrows! This special place is located right on Exchange Street, in the heart of downtown. Everything about Blyth & Burrows is impressive, from its vintage-inspired style to its dimly lit rooms.

This is the Tom Yum Punch. It features gin, Lime, and Tom Yum Soup. Yes, you heard that right, and guess what—it was so good!

You will not be bored with cocktails at Blyth & Burrows. We have been there a few times, and I will go over some of the most creative ones I have tried.

They also have a speakeasy! You can easily get seated there, just ask the hostess.

Don’t forget to try their food; it’s delicious!

Want to know more? Read my guide: Blyth & Burrows: The Most Popular Cocktail Bar In Portland, Maine

4. NEAT

Location: Boothbay Harbor

One of the best cocktails I have ever had was at NEAT cocktail bar in Boothbay Harbor. The cocktail bar is hidden in the back of a tasty sub shop.

NEAT is famous for its endless whiskey list, but it also creates cocktails featuring gins, rum, vodka, and other spirits. 

Below is the House Salad, which featured olive oil-washed Tito’s vodka, lemon, and sweet tomato water served with basil, tomato bitters, and the Coco Bongo. The cocktail had a hint of vanilla, orange, lime, and fresh mint. Each sip felt like we were on a tropical vacation.

My favorite cocktail of the night was the Blowfish Spirit Cleanse! The ingredients are secret, and the taste will keep you guessing while you sip it. While I don’t want to ruin the experience, the drink involves an edible plant that provides a numbing effect intensified by the liquor.

They also offer a variety of delicious food items that you can pair with your cocktails.

Read my entire guide on NEAT: The Boothbay Speakeasy That Has The Best Cocktails In Maine

5. Wiggly Bridge

Location: York, Maine

Visit Wiggly Bridge, a craft distillery in the beautiful oceanside town of York, Maine. We came to the area during a day trip to try some of their handcrafted cocktails. They deserve a spot as one of the best cocktail bars in Maine.

Wet tried a cocktail that featured the Small Batch Dry Gin. A botanical blend of Croatian juniper, coriander, jasmine, orris root, angelica root, and a bit of orange peel.

These are my top four picks for the best cocktail bars in Maine! Make sure to pin this post, as I will add new ones throughout my travels.

Explore More Of Maine

You should also read my Local’s Guide To The Best Lobster Rolls In Maine!

Are you visiting Portland, Maine? visit Eventide Oyster Co. Portland, Maine’s Top Seafood Restaurant.

If traveling around Maine, block some time to visit one of the many State Parks.

Visiting Acadia National Park?

Here are 20 Exciting Things To Do In Acadia National Park this summer.

Don’t forget to try the weird yet delicious Lobster Ice Cream in Bar Harbor.

You can also hike the Beech Mountain Trail and the Ship Harbor Trail before cozying up in one of these 13 Great Places To Stay Near Acadia National Park.