MAINE PUBLIC • May 1, 2026
The Maine Office of Tourism is reporting that the state saw 650,000 fewer visitors last year, but they spent more than $9 billion, a record high. State Tourism Director Carolann Ouellette said the tourism marketing effort known as Forged by Nature celebrates all things Maine and that appeals to visitors. "What's important to us as Mainers, from working waterfronts, working landscapes, farms and forests, and just who we are as a people. That's what makes Maine special to our visitors," Ouellette said.