Explore the Charming Small Towns of Maine

05/03/2024

RENOWNED AND SMALL Maine Towns 

Maine, located in the Northeast of the United States, tells the story of early European settlers and retains an old-time charm. Here are some of the small towns you must visit during a trip to this region.

Maine's Most Charming Towns

Bucksport

Bucksport draws visitors with its rich array of attractions and activities. Strolling along the Waterfront Walkway, you can enjoy views of the Penobscot River and walk across the bridge. Don’t miss the museums, including the Bucksport Historical Society (which reveals local history) and the Lighthouse Arts Center; also worth visiting is the tranquil and mysterious Buck Cemetery. After exploring the town, it's recommended to try local beers at the Friars’ Brewhouse Tap Room and taste local specialties such as lobster, clam chowder, and blueberry muffins.

Camden

A true gem of the Atlantic coast, this small Maine town is near Camden Hills State Park: for hiking enthusiasts, a trip here is recommended, where the imposing Mount Battie stands. Those who prefer the sea can explore the nearby coast aboard the Moon Dog, which also offers photography workshops for tourists. Walking through the town center, especially the High Street Historic District, with its historic buildings and waterfalls leading to the harbor, is also splendid. Excellent restaurants, shops, and cafes abound.

Castine

Among the Maine towns not to miss is Castine, ideal for visitors looking for a historic seaside destination. With its central location in the state, Castine offers both splendid natural treasures and a unique maritime history. This is well represented by the perfectly preserved ancient architecture, historical museums, and the spectacular Dyce Head Light lighthouse. Those wishing to stay can do so in charming places, such as B&Bs with gardens overlooking the harbor or grand Victorian hotels, many of which have cozy pubs inside.

Ellsworth

Often considered merely a pass-through between Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island, Ellsworth is a small Maine town worth visiting. Notable places include the Black Mansion (also known as Woodlawn Museum) and Birdsacre. The former, built in 1828 for Colonel John Black, is perfectly preserved, with rare historic details and antique furniture. Costumed guides are available to explain the history and furnishings of the main residence and its buildings from May to October. Birdsacre (Stanwood Wildlife Sanctuary) is a “natural” museum with trails, ponds, and a bird nesting area, perfect for nature lovers.

Greenville

Greenville is a small town in Maine located on Moosehead Lake, the state's largest lake. To appreciate the beauty of its tranquil waters, booking a seaplane flight is ideal, perfect for both summer and autumn. The historic Steamboat Kathadin should be photographed in the harbor. Besides walking through the old town, for those who enjoy hiking, taking (with an official guide) an adventurous safari in the surroundings to meet moose is recommended.

Naples

Naples is located in the western part of the state, between Lake Sebago and Lake Long, where you can enjoy the view by renting a boat or, for the more adventurous, water skiing. The main historical landmarks to visit are the Naples Public Library, located in a colonial villa, and the Naples Historical Society, where you can learn something about local history.

Orono

The town of Orono, Maine, is best known for its historic university, which attracts thousands of visitors each year. Also not to be missed are the Collins Center for the Arts and the Hudson Museum, while sports enthusiasts can attend university sporting events (especially hockey games). Besides the pleasant downtown historic center, the Orono Bog Boardwalk is noteworthy, a long and fascinating trail that crosses the northern bog to the city. It is usually open for hiking from May 1 to the last Sunday in November.

Swan’s Island

Here's a place out of a fairy tale. Swan's Island is only accessible by ferry and boasts an incredible old-time charm, between natural beauties and nostalgic architecture (a lighthouse, a single store, a museum, and a library). It’s a fantastic location for beach life (there are four public beaches, plus an inland quarry where you can swim in fresh water). A must-visit.

Stonington

For an unusual excursion, it is recommended to head to Deer Island where a picturesque small Maine town, Stonington, is located. It's an ancient fishing village, now renowned for its famous lobster dishes and evocative atmosphere, thanks to its location on a slope that allows viewing the bay from above. Stonington is rich in art, with artist studios and shops related to the renowned Haystack Mountain School of Crafts. In addition to the charming town, there are numerous hiking trails nearby. Also recommended in town are two points of interest: Nervous Nellies (a wonderful shop of jams and jellies, decorated with eclectic sculptures and artworks) and the 1912 Stonington Opera House, which offers a calendar of concerts and various events.

MAP OF MAINE TOWNS

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