Summer thunderstorms are on my shortlist of best parts of summer in Maine. They're exciting and refreshing when they move into town on a hot day and provide nature's version of performance art for us to enjoy. With such an awesome spectacle of clouds, rain and lightning, why experience a Maine summer thunderstorm from the seclusion of your own living room window? Whether by careful planning or happy accident, you could get caught in a thunderstorm in some of these breathtaking Maine locations.

Chebeague Island Inn

The covered porch at Chebeague Island Inn is the perfect place to enjoy a Maine summer thunderstorm and this photo is proof. The sprawling lawn blends into views of the Atlantic while the much-needed summer rain refreshes everything on which it falls. Grab a cozy blanket, climb into one of the deck chairs, and soak in the scenes of a Maine thunderstorm.

Owl's Head Lighthouse

Owl's Head Light in Rockland is open Saturdays and Sundays plus during other special events through the summer weather permitting so your best bet for enjoying a thunderstorm from this location is by accident with a fast moving storm blowing through on an otherwise calm day. Imagine the views of the ocean as the storm winds create rough waves and lighting cracks over the horizon.

Penobscot Narrows Observatory

The Penobscot Narrows Bridge & Observatory is the tallest public bridge conservatory in the world. It's even taller than the Statue of Liberty! It offers 360-degree views of Penobscot Bay and distant Western mountains. So picture all of that combined with an epic summer thunderstorm complete with torrential rain that seems to be falling at all angles.

Federal Jack's Brew Pub

Federal Jack's catchphrase says it all, "Great Maine brews with great Maine views!" According to the description on the Federal Jack's website, "Often referred to as the most picturesque pub on the waterfront, Federal Jack's Restaurant and Brew Pub is well-known for its spectacular views, creative pub fare, and award-winning hand-crafted ales." If there's a thunderstorm in the forecast, go grab yourself a cold one and slide up to their stellar deck for a front row seat to the storm on the water in Kennebunkport.

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