Five Things to Love About Maine

Never mind that the Pennsylvania Dutch are perhaps more famous for this sweet treat. Maine residents seem to claim it for themselves with a perverse pride.

What surprised me in a week's worth of sampling whoopie pies was not only the differences among them -- the fillings especially -- but the fact I found very few mass-produced ones. Most gas stations and convenience stores sold a homemade version that I'm guessing came from, well, someone's home.

One vendor at a beach amusement park told me he made nine a day to sell -- no more, no less.

That said, the best whoopie pie I enjoyed came from a real bakery -- specifically, Congdon's Family Restaurant & Bakery (1090 Post Rd., Wells; 207-646-4219); they also make a pretty mean doughnut.

Another solid bet: The whoopie pies sold statewide from Wicked Whoopies -- they come in more than just the standard chocolate flavor (gingerbread, anyone?) and they can be ordered through the Web site and sent by mail.

See the "Real" Mount Desert Island

It's a given that if you're driving up the coast of Maine, you're going to make your way to Acadia National Park in Mount Desert Island. As well you should: It offers some of the highest views and best hiking trails in the state.

You'll probably spend some time in delightfully touristy Bar Harbor, right near the entrance to the park. But don't neglect the southern, less-inhabited half of the island, filled with small towns (Tremont, Southwest Harbor), a renowned, picture-perfect lighthouse (Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse) and such quaint diversions along the way as antique shops and picnic areas.