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7 Walking Tours in Rockland and Camden, ME

FirIf you want to get to know the Midcoast region of Maine , take one of 7 walking tours in Camden and Rockland, Maine. Often, getting out of the car and simply exploring on foot is the best way to discover a city’s heart and soul. And so it is with the Midcoast region of Maine.

The walking tours in Rockland and Camden, Maine, offer a wealth of insight into the region’s history, art, culture, and culinary wonders. The coast of Maine speaks loudly to those who stop to listen.

Sometimes, walking tours are the best way to engage with a destination, even if you’re a frequent guest. Culinary, photo, history, and discovery tours aim to introduce visitors to areas or interests that might be overlooked on a casual stay. Bent on providing entertainment, excitement, and/or education, a walking tour offers a new perspective. It can ignite a new appreciation for the destination you are visiting.

“Now shall I walk or shall I ride? ‘Ride,’ Pleasure said; ‘Walk,’ Joy replied.”  — W.H. Davies

1. Rockland Private Lunchtime Culinary Tour

Firstly, Rockland and Camden both have a reputation for farm-to-table freshness on the culinary scene . Restaurants, cafés, bistros, and craft breweries dot the landscape, offering everything from fresh Maine seafood to pub grub. Rockland Private Lunchtime Culinary Tour , the beacon of gastronomic adventures in the area, offers a 3-hour tour of specially curated locations highlighting the homegrown talent of award-winning chefs, creative brewers, and dedicated chocolatiers. In addition to tasty treats, your guide will share a bit of hometown folklore surrounding the culinary scene in the area.

2. Camden Ghost Walk

Secondly, American Ghost Tours offers a titillating tour in Camden if you are passionate about the paranormal. Guided by storytellers with inside knowledge of the quirks and idiosyncrasies that haunt the region, a ghost tour is a fun way to see the region’s underbelly. Mystery, history, legends, and folklore stories intertwine with ghost and goblin tales.

3. Coastal Maine Photo Tours

Come armed with your camera for an Instagram-worthy photo tour of the coast of Maine. Coastal Maine Photo Tours offers a 1-day in-depth travel experience you will always remember. Improve your photography skills while learning about Maine’s history, culture, and landscape. Options include lobster and lighthouse journeys, sunset trips to Pemaquid Point, and day trips to Monhegan or Vinalhaven Islands. On any trip, a professional photographer will guide you. You will gain a better understanding of your camera’s abilities as well as photo composition.

4. Maine Sport Outfitters

Sign on for a trek to spot migrating birds in spring and fall or a Friday night headlamp hike for a stargazing adventure. Maine Sports Outfitters offers a variety of land and sea tours that take you deep into the woods and waterways of the region. Lace up your hiking boots and sign up for a guided adventure through Camden Hills State Park. This 3-hour tour leads to breathtaking views within the only oceanfront mountain range on the eastern seaboard.

5. Camden Mill Walk

Additionally, if you prefer the pace of a self-guided walk, stop at the Camden Public Library and pick up a brochure on the self-guided tour of Camden’s historic mills . Following an easy-to-read map, you’ll see six historic mill sites and three dams, all instrumental in the city’s early years. Your stroll will also take you through downtown Camden and the Megunticook River. You’ll be able to imagine the life of a mill worker and the goods they created.

If you really want to get to know a destination, often getting out of the car and simply exploring on foot is the best way to discover the heart and soul of it. And, so it is with the mid-coast region of Maine. Here are 6 walking tours in Rockland and Camden Maine. Rich in history, art, culture, and natural wonders, the coast of Maine speaks loudly to those who stop to listen.

Walking tours are the best way to engage with a destination, whether you are new to the area or a frequent guest. Culinary tours, photo tours, history tours, and discovery tours aim to introduce visitors to areas or interests that might be overlooked on a casual stay. Bent on providing entertainment, excitement, and/or education, a walking tour offers a new way of looking at things and can ignite a new appreciation for the destination you are visiting.

6. Rockland Harbor Trail

Following a 5-mile route along Rockland’s scenic harbor, the Rockland Harbor Trail links the commercial downtown district with the working harbor front. It’s an easy walk traversing city parks and wooden boardwalks where you can learn a little of Rockland’s history. Delve into its arts and cultural persona, and leisurely get to know the waterfront of this picturesque town along the midcoast of Maine.

7. Camden Hills Day Hikes

Finally, take a 2-hour sunrise hike, a 4-hour moderate hike through the woods, or a 6-hour strenuous trek through Maine’s wilderness with a registered Maine Recreational Guide. Explore Maine’s natural beauty with a local expert who will lead you to breathtaking views and awe-inspiring vistas. Camden Hills Day Hikes specializes in extraordinary experiences for ordinary people.

Lodging in Rockland, ME

From our location in the heart of Rockland, you are well-placed to experience all that Rockland and Camden offer. Gorgeous vistas, a spectacular food scene, and ample opportunities for outdoor fun on foot await you. Book your favorite room at Berry Manor Inn and enjoy one of these 7 walking tours in Rockland and Camden, Maine.

Updated May 2024

Photo Credit: © 13:16 Photography via canva.com © traveler1116 via canva.com

14 BEST Guided & Self-Guided Tours Camden Maine Offers

Situated in MidCoast Maine along Penobscot Bay, Camden is a quaint, beautiful town. The couples and families who visit throughout the year have the opportunity to do a variety of things. Some of the most popular are the many tours Camden Maine offers. In fact, you can choose from different types of guided and self-guided tours in Camden Maine.

Best Camden Boat Tours

One of the most popular things to do in Camden Maine is tour the open water. Boat tours in Camden give you the opportunity to learn about Maine maritime culture and history. Also, you get to see a range of wildlife, such as whales, seals, porpoises, eagles, ducks, and more.

Check out our guide for the best boat tours and rentals to learn more.

Best Nature & Eco Tours in Camden Maine Area

Camden harbor cruises.

If you want to learn about seals, Camden Harbor Cruises offers Eco Tours on the Lively Lady. The 1.5-hour wildlife cruises take you across Penobscot Bay to a remote seal habitat. During the ride, you may see harbor seals, gray seals, porpoises, osprey, sunfish, and other animals. The staff will also pull in a lobster trap to see what they catch.

Schooner Yacht Heron

With an informative narrative, Schooner Yacht Heron performs great Educational Eco Tours. In fact, Captain Bonnie Schmidt is an environmental educator and has been sailing Penobscot Bay for more than 25 years. During the tours, Captain Twig sails the 65-foot schooner across the Rockport and Camden harbors and the bay.

Maine Sport Outfitters

If you want to get closer to nature, Maine Sport Outfitters offers hiking, backpacking, and nature tours. Its Local Guided Hikes explore the trails up Maiden Cliff, Mount Battie, and Mount Megunticook in Camden Hills State Park. The guide can also take you on hikes in the Bald Mountain Preserve and Ragged Mountain Preserve. As a matter of fact, you can book a customized backpacking adventure and learn about the natural history and ecology of the region.

Great Camden-Area Fishing Charters & Tours

Mike kinney maine guide.

Offering fishing charters and tours in MidCoast Maine, Mike Kinney Maine Guide takes you on some of the lakes, ponds, and rivers that are easy to access from Camden. For example, you have the option for a Megunticook Lake Tour or Megunticook Lake Fishing adventure. Some of the other options include remote pond fishing, bass fishing, and trout fishing. The half-day trips last about four hours, and the full-day trips last about eight hours.

Ten Mile Guide Service

In Rockport, Ten Mile Guide Service offers fishing charters along with expertise so that you get the most out of your adventure. The expert, Clifton Ames, has been a registered guide for more than 20 years and a master guide for about 20 years. Whether you prefer spin fishing or fly-fishing, he has the gear that you need for an unforgettable trip. Bass fishing is his specialty, but there are opportunities to catch brook trout, perch, salmon, and more.

Maine Outdoors

Located in Union, Maine Outdoors offers half-day and full-day fishing tours on ponds, lakes and the Maine coast. Its master guides are experts on the geography, history, and wildlife of the area. Each excursion includes a boat, guide, fishing rods, bait, lures, rain jackets, fishing licenses, and drinks. For full-day trips, lunch on the shore is included.

Best Lighthouse Tours Around Camden

Also on this list for when you want to see lighthouses, Camden Harbor Cruises might be one of the best boating companies for tours Camden Maine offers. The reason is that it has three different lighthouse tours.

The one-hour Lobstering and Lighthouse Cruise takes you to two lighthouses while learning about the area’s history. The staff also pulls in a lobster trap and explains how fishermen catch lobster along the Maine coast.

The Sunday Morning Lighthouse Cruise takes you to five lighthouses. These are some of the most photographed light towers in the world, and you’ll have your chance to get pictures during the tour too.

The Grindle Point Lighthouse Excursion is a special, three-hour tour to the historic lighthouse. It takes you past Curtis Island to Islesboro, teaching you about the wildlife and lighthouse along the way. When you arrive, you’ll be able to explore the lighthouse and Sailor’s Museum.

Red Cloak Tours

Lighthouse tours are one of the many offerings from Red Cloak Tours . These excursions include legends, histories and more about four lighthouses in the Camden and Rockland areas. They last for two to four hours depending on where they start and end, and land transportation is included.

Coastal Helicopters

Next to Belfast Municipal Airport, Coastal Helicopters can give you an aerial view of the lighthouses in MidCoast Maine. This company has been providing efficient, safe sightseeing services since 1990, and was listed as one of the top 10 helicopter tours in the nation by The Travel Channel. You can book lighthouse tours during which you’ll also see a variety of wildlife and sailing windjammers.

Other Unique Camden-Area Tours

Making this list again, you can’t go wrong with Red Cloak Tours when you want truly unique tours in Camden. During its 1.5-hour walking Haunted History Tour, The Lady in the Red Cloak tells you about the haunts and mysteries of the town’s backstreets.

During the one-hour Historic Cemeteries tour, you learn the histories of the people who are buried or entombed in the graveyards and cemeteries. Also, you learn about the graveyards and cemeteries themselves.

Maine Wine Trail

For an experience like never before, check out the self-guided Maine Wine Trail . As members of the Maine Winery Guild, 21 wineries and vineyards across the state produce fruit wines, meads, ciders, and distilled spirits. When you visit at least 10 of them, you can request a Winery Guild T-shirt.

Learn more about some of the vineyards and wineries near Camden here .

Camden Snow Bowl

Whether you visit Camden during the summer or winter, the Snow Bowl is open for a range of activities. During the summer, you can go on self-guided tours of its hiking and biking trails. During the winter, you can go on self-guided ski and snowboard tours. Maps are available to help you find your way, including this one .

Learn more about what to expect at Camden Snow Bowl here .

Equinox Guiding Service

If you like rock climbing or ice climbing, Equinox Guiding Service offers genuinely adventurous tours. No matter your ability level, the professional climbers can provide instruction and take you on guided rock and ice climbing trips in Camden Hills State Park.

Best Hotel Near Great Tours Camden Maine Offers

When you’re looking for a place to stay in Camden that’s conveniently located to the top tours Camden Maine has to offer, The Country Inn is the best bed-and-breakfast in the area. Along with comfortable rooms and seasonal cottages, we offer great amenities . After the tours, you can take advantage of our Health Club , which features an indoor heated pool and workout room.

• Last Modified September 29, 2020

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Home » Northeast » Maine » 11 Enchanting Things To Do in Camden Maine Year Round

11 Enchanting Things To Do in Camden Maine Year Round

WHY GO : One of the literally coolest things to do in Camden Maine, known for its crowded summer tourist season, is downhill ski. Yep, there’s a ski resort in town. Of course, Camden is one of the most popular tourist towns on the Mid-Coast Maine in the warmer months, too. With its protected harbor jammed with schooners and recreational ships, it is breathtakingly gorgeous.

At one point, there were 4,000 ships in Penobscot Bay, transporting lime, granite, lumber, fish, ice, and other Maine resources to points south.

Visitors can tap into this maritime heritage by taking a cruise on one of the many sailboats available for daytrips or overnight; or by attending the Camden Windjammer Festival held every Labor Day Weekend.

And, those who wish to dive deeper into Camden history, read on. Highlights include a nouveau outdoor Amphitheater, radical for its day; tales of the early feminist poet Edna St. Vincent Millay, who attended High School in Camden; and a young early 20 th century philanthropist who was responsible for transforming Camden ME into the jewel it is today.

In September, the Camden International Film Festival, focusing specifically on Documentary Films, gathers “the world’s most boundary pushing storytellers and industry leaders for a four day celebration of non-fiction cinema.”

Continue reading for our Camden ME recommendations: including attractions, restaurants, and lodgings.

(And, if you’re looking for another mini-moon with your honey, check out this Best Romantic Getaways in Maine post.)

Table of Contents

Things to Do In Camden Maine In Summer

DO: Historic Camden Walking Tour

(Co-Sponsored by the 1928 Camden Public Library , tours are led by Dave Jackson, Director of the Camden Harbor Park and Amy Rollins, from the Penobscot Bay Chamber of Commerce). This walking tour begins in the Children’s Garden outside the Camden Library. It’s a fantastic tell-all about the origins of classic Camden.

Though tourists swarm to Camden for its stunning land and seascapes, few stop to wonder about the parks and public spaces that attracted visitors here in the first place. Many would be amazed to discover that most were funded by a teen-age woman.

The Teen-Age Benefactor

At age 19, heiress Mary Louise Curtis Bok, daughter of Cyrus Curtis – the Philadelphia publisher of the Saturday Evening Post, Ladies Home Journal and other magazines – sought to “give back” to her beloved summer home.

A few years after the hilltop Ocean View Hotel burned down (in 1917), Bok purchased the property and donated it to the town of Camden. The gift came with an understanding that it would be the site of a Public Library for all to use. The Camden Library opened its doors in 1928.

In 1931, after purchasing land adjoining the library property, Bok hired the son of Frederick Law Olmstead – Frederick, Jr. – to design a park that would slope down to the harbor, offering vantage points, plantings, and seating.

Bok chose another landscape architect, Fletcher Steele (who happened to be a student of Frederick Law Olmstead, Jr.’s at Harvard) to shape a natural outdoor Amphitheater. (This structure is still in almost daily use in season). After Harvard, Steele studied landscapes in Europe. A French Modernist design, this setting, his first commission, was revolutionary for its time.

Historically Significant Gardens

The amphitheater is so historically significant, in fact, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2013. In the depths of the Depression,  Bok put many people to work, turning Harbor Park and the historic Amphitheater into the spectacular attractions they are today.

Steele was known for his inability to stay within budget. He designed a stone and iron “Compass of Winds” to be embedded within the amphitheater, but it was too expensive to install.

As a result, the incomplete compass rose was stored in an old boathouse until it was found just a few years ago. Patrons raised funds to complete the compass rose with an old millstone at its center. Its granite arrows were cut and polished by local stonecutters.

The Compass is now fixed in the lawn just above the terrace steps (closest to the library) and used as seating for Shakespeare plays, concerts, weddings, and other community events.

While most indoor (and even outdoor) theater venues require man-made scenery, this one boasts the bustling harbor as a “living” backdrop.

Underground Library

The Camden Library itself, a community hub, is also architecturally noteworthy for its latest 1996 addition. To maintain the integrity of original building, the expansion was constructed underground, nearly doubling the library’s space.

On your tour, you’ll enter what is now the main door, tour the interior of the library – both the new and old sections. Afterwards, you’ll cross over to Harbor Park.

PHOTO OP: Statue of Union Soldier with cracked leg

The broken leg of the granite man, placed at the top of the Megunticook River stairs on Main St. has nothing to do with the wounds of war. But it has everything to do with a modern accident.

A few years ago, this Civil War Memorial that stood in the middle of busy Route 1 was hit by a car, fell and broke. The statue was repaired and moved to this location to protect it from future mishaps.

WANDER/SHOP: Main St . in Downtown Camden

Though Camden fell victim to several fires since the 1700’s, the last one in 1892 devastated the town. But the following year, the town, in the spirit of hardy Mainer’s, “got to work,” basically rebuilding – in brick this time – all the structures you see today. Plan to window shop or stop into any gallery or boutique that grabs your attention. There are plenty, especially souvenir shops.

HIKING TRAILS: Mt. Battie at Camden Hills State Park

This was Edna St. Vincent Millay’s favorite hike!

From Maine.gov website – “0.5 mile, moderate. Offers a relatively short, but very rewarding hike up the south-facing side of the mountain. Although there are some steep pitches, and a bit of scrambling through rock and ledge areas is required, the view over Camden and the islands dotting Penobscot Bay makes this climb well worth the effort. Ascending the 26 ft. 1921 stone tower on Mount Battie ‘s 780’ summit further enhances the opportunity to soak in the 360-degree panorama.”

For those who don’t have the time, there’s a 1.6 mile auto road to the summit as well.

SAIL: Schooner Tour

There are dozens of ways to get out on the water in Camden, including SUP’s and kayaks (Mainesport.com), Lobster Boat, and multi-day Windjammer Cruises. Perennial favorites are 2-hour and daylong Schooner and Sloop sails.

Several ships in The Maine Windjammer Association fleet sail from here, including the Mary Day, Angelique , and Lewis R. French (more homeport in Rockland).

OCEAN BEACH: Laite Memorial Beach Park and Views of Curtis Island Lighthouse

This hidden hillside pebbly Laite Memorial Beach Park offers views of Mt. Battie and Camden Harbor. If you continue a half mile up Bay Street, look for a small sign for Curtis Island Lighthouse Overlook. Although Curtis Island is only reachable by boat, and the lighthouse is not open to the public, take a short path to the perfect spot for a photo op.

LAKE BEACH: Barrett’s Cove

Beach-goers who prefer warmer, fresh water, and a sandy beach should head to Barrett’s Cove on Megunticook Lake. Even in high season, this town-owned park is uncrowded and quiet.

Things to do in Camden Maine in Winter (And Some Year Round)

SEE A SHOW: Camden Opera House

This Richardson Romanesque style Camden Opera House was the largest structure in the county in 1894. Today, it still features live performances, but also houses town offices and a small orientation center where you can learn all about its history.

The Opera House sits across from the Town Green. This postage-stamp park was also saved by Mary Louis Curtis Bok. In the late 1920’s, Bok heard rumors that a proposed gas station was going to mar the property. Now, it is a shaded place bounded by a Memorial to all Camden natives who served in all American wars from the 1700’s on.

SKI: Camden Snow Bowl

Yep, you can “Ski the Sea” at the Camden Snow Bowl.   It’s one of the very few ski resorts with vast ocean views. While not huge, there are 20 runs and 1,000 ft. vertical elevation. And, for lovers of quirk – the Camden Snow Bowl hosts the U.S. National Toboggan Championships – the only organized wood toboggan race in the world.

WALK/WORKSHOPS: Merryspring Nature Center

Join a workshop, listen to a lecture, or just wander the walking trails that are laced throughout the 66-acre Merryspring Nature Center. The center offers free lectures and workshops year round, and the grounds are open dawn to dusk. Check website for special events and talks. 

Restaurants In Camden Maine

EAT: Locals Recommend

There’s a slew of places to choose from in Camden Maine from fine dining to lobster shacks. But standouts include Franny’s Bistro for New American – New England, Vintage Room for cocktails and tapas, Marriner’s , a chowder house that’s a hit with tourists, but locals like it, too. Also, Fresh & Co ., lauded by visitors and residents alike for its devotion to local farmers and fishermen, Long Grain for Asian Fusion,  And Hartstone Inn & Hideaway for great seafood in funky surroundings.

Hotels In Camden Maine

Stay : best inns.

As a bustling resort town, there are, naturally, a slew of inns and Bed and Breakfasts in Camden ME to choose from. Most are very good, so it’s difficult to come up with absolutes. Some travelers like traditional Yankee décor, others want contemporary or funky. You can get all here.

Standouts include the relatively new 16 Bayview boutique hotel in the Waterfront District, and Norumbega Inn –  an 1800’s European-style manor house turned elegant boutique hotel.

The funky eclectically designed Whitehall is a far cry from the whitewashed antique farmhouse exterior, just slightly out of town. Camden Main Stay Inn and waterfront Grand Harbor Inn also win high marks from travelers.

But the most posh spot is the Relais & Chateaux brand Camden Harbor Inn – right on the bay.

Malerie Yolen-Cohen is the Author of the cross-country travel guide, Stay On Route 6; Your Guide to All 3562 Miles of Transcontinental Route 6. She contributes frequently to Newsday, with credits in National Geographic Traveler, Ladies Home Journal, Yankee Magazine, Shape.com, Sierra Magazine, Porthole, Paddler, New England Boating, Huffington Post, and dozens of other publications. Malerie’s focus and specialty is Northeastern US, and she is constantly amazed by the caliber of restaurants and lodging in the unlikeliest places.

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Camden Maine Vacation Guide | Best Things to Do in Camden This Year

The town of Camden is the self-described Jewel of the Maine coast. Located in MidCoast Maine , Camden is a haven for ocean lovers, foodies , shoppers, and outdoor adventurers.

In the summer months, the population more than triples due to visitors and seasonal residents, many of whom reside in gorgeous ocean-view estates around the harbor.

Getting to Know Camden Maine

Despite some early exploration of Camden Hills, then known as Penobscot Hills in the 1600s, Camden didn’t become a permanent settlement in Maine for another 150 years.

James Richards was the first recorded settler of Camden in 1769 when the first real settlers to the area arrived. The town’s name comes from Charles Pratt, the first Earl of Camden, and was named after the Revolutionary War in 1791.

In its first 100 years, Camden prospered in industries such as shipbuilding, anchor manufacturing, and lime production. The lime industry was located in the town of Goose River which separated from Camden in 1891 and was renamed Rockport.

In 1892, most of downtown Camden burned in a large fire. Buildings downtown were subsequently rebuilt with brick, and today Camden’s historic downtown has become an iconic part of the city. 

With its access to the harbor and natural beauty, Camden has long been a popular summer resort destination, especially for wealthy families. By the late 19th century, sprawling estates and mansions dotted the area around Camden.

Today, many of those estates have become bed and breakfasts, and Camden’s popularity as a resort town led to much development in the town, including the creation of the Camden amphitheater, the public library, and much more.

Fascinating Facts About Camden Maine

• Camden is home to the only ocean-view ski area on the Eastern Seaboard — Camden Snow Bowl! Here the annual National Toboggan Championships are held every February.
• Most of the 1995 kids’ movie “Casper” was filmed in Camden because the production crew felt it had an authentic field.
• Besides Casper, several movies have been filmed in Camden, including “Captains Courageous,” “Carousel,” “Peyton Place,” “Head Above Water,” and “In the Bedroom.”
• Captain George Weymouth of the ship Archangel first saw Camden Hills in 1605. He and Captain John Smith — of Jamestown and Pocahontas fame — arrived to explore Camden and the surrounding area.

FAQs About Camden Maine

Where is camden maine.

Camden is located in Knox County in Maine’s MidCoast. It’s about 90 minutes from Portland and less than an hour from Augusta .

What is there to do in Camden Maine?

A better question is what isn’t there to do? You can explore Camden’s historic downtown, visit a nearby lighthouse, visit a local park, eat some fresh Maine seafood, and so much more.

When is a good time to visit Camden Maine? 

Summer and winter are considered to be the peak seasons for activity in Camden. But, locals may tell you April-June is the best time because it offers a more relaxed pace before the busy tourist season .

What is special about Camden Maine?

Camden is full of rich history. There’s stunning architecture, plenty of places to shop, and more than enough beautiful scenery.

Things to Do in Camden Maine

There is something to experience in Camden for every traveler, whether you are looking to actively hike and explore Camden Hills State Park or relax on a sailboat as it glides over the cool ocean waves in Penobscot Bay .

Tour Camden Harbor

Located right on Penobscot Bay, Camden is a sailor’s dream. Camden Harbor is home to numerous schooners and tall ships that offer daily sailing tours and excursions . Visitors may choose to charter their own ships or sail for several days on a majestic ocean vessel, learning to hoist the sails or relaxing on the deck in the cool ocean breezes.

A Camden harbor cruise is a fun way to see the beautiful boats and schooners that port here and venture out to a few lighthouses and beautiful Penobscot Bay — one of our favorite places to sail in all of Maine! Lively Lady offers harbor cruises from Camden’s docks daily.

Enjoy a Schooner tour in Camden aboard Schooner Surprise — we suggest a sunset cruise. As the sails are raised, the wind will be in your hair and you’ll see wildlife from this authentic 1918 race ship with only the power of the wind behind you. A ride around the harbor will pass island ferries, mega-yachts, powerboats, fishing boats, Maine windjammers , and more!

Penobscot Bay itself has been said to be one of the best and most scenic sailing areas in the state of Maine. Camden remains a working harbor, with lobstering and fishing boats traveling in and out of the Bay each day to catch fresh seafood and lobster.

Shop in Downtown Camden

Downtown Camden is a delight of upscale shops, antique shops , general stores, seafood eateries, and cafes. Plus, it has the most beautiful waterfront and the Camden Public Library, which is surrounded by a lovely park for picnicking.

Pop into Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe , The Smiling Cow , and French & Brawn Market Place for the perfect picnic provisions and Maine-made yummies. Explore Owl & Turtle Bookshop Cafe and the Cashmere Goat too. Renys is a Maine shopping adventure in Camden…you won’t know you need it until you find it here!

Pay a Visit to Merryspring Nature Center

Open daily from sunrise to sunset, Merryspring Nature Center is a paradise if you love nature. Spread across 66 acres, the park is free to visit and there’s so much to see.

Marvel at Merryspring’s specialty gardens’ dazzling array of roses, daylilies, annuals, and perennials. If you want to explore even further, 10 nature trails wind around the property for visitors to explore on their own.

Merryspring is also a nonprofit educational center and routinely offers talks on topics dealing with plants, gardening, wildlife, and so much more.

See a Performance at the Camden Opera House

If you’re looking to soak up music, history, and culture all in one spot, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Camden Opera House .

This 500-seat venue is more than 100 years old and continues to draw visitors for its Victorian-era architecture and details. If you love historic buildings, you’ll be in awe of the large chandeliers, the antique moldings, and even the stenciling. The detail here is immaculate!

Best of all, the opera house hosts a fun variety of entertainment — including films, classical music concerts, musicals, comedians, and more. Watching a performance here is a highlight of any trip to Camden.

Visit Camden Hills State Park

Looking for things to do in Camden Maine? A trip to Camden Hills State Park allows visitors to view a gorgeous sunrise or sunset over Penobscot Bay from the top of Mt. Battie.

Camden Hills State Park encompasses 5,700 acres, including over 30 miles of hiking and walking trails. You may tour the park on your own or with a local Maine Guide.

Camden Hills State Park is great for families with children because the hiking trails are not very strenuous or long and usually have very moderate inclines. However, if you don’t feel like hiking, drive the Auto Road up Mt. Battie for panoramic views of the Bay and nearby islands.

Also, the park is home to over a hundred campsites and a large picnic area for those visitors who wish to stay a little longer. In addition, Maiden Cliff is one of the more popular hiking trails — an 800-foot rock cliff that provides spectacular views of Megunticook Lake and the Maine countryside.

Explore Some of Maine’s Best Beaches

Beachgoers will love Barrett’s Cove , a freshwater beach on Megunticook Lake. This beach is a quiet and relaxing escape from notoriously busy Camden in the summer months. It is often not crowded, and the lake water remains relatively warm during prime season.

The beach is open to the public with designated swimming areas, public restrooms, and showers. There is also a grassy picnic area with tables and outdoor grills and a playground for the kids to enjoy.

Laite Memorial Beach is small but scenic, overlooking beautiful views of Camden Harbor just a short distance from downtown. It’s part of a grassy park that slopes down to a pebble beach along the water, perfect for searching for shells, sea glass, and other ocean treasures.

The park itself has swings, picnic tables, grills, and restroom facilities. There is a swimming platform offshore for those brave enough to swim in the chilly harbor waters.

Tour Lighthouses Near Camden Maine

It is worth a day trip to visit one of Camden’s outlying islands — Isleboro, Vinalhaven, North Haven, Isle Au Haut, and more — accessible by boat or ferry out of Camden Harbor.

Many of these islands are home to great hiking and biking trails, quaint seaside villages, and picturesque Maine lighthouses . In fact, there are 18 lighthouses within a 40-mile radius of Camden, some of which include:

• Curtis Island Lighthouse is located at the entrance to Camden Harbor and is still actively used by the US Coast Guard.
• Vinalhaven is home to Brown’s Head Light and Heron Neck Light . Vinalhaven is also famous for its resident swordfish captain and author Linda Greenlaw who wrote “The Lobster Chronicles: Life on a Very Small Island,” “A Hungry Ocean”The Hungry Ocean: A Swordboat Captain’s Journey,” “Slipknot,” “All Fishermen are Liars”All Fishermen Are Liars: True Tales from the Dry Dock Bar,” and her own Maine cookbook, “Recipes from a Very Small Island.”
• Goose Rocks Light is located between the islands of Vinalhaven and North Haven, marking the dangerous rock ledge beneath it.
• Isle au Haut is home to Isle au Haut Light . Visitors to this tower may also choose to stay at the original innkeeper’s house, which has been turned into a quaint bed and breakfast with no electricity!

Attend Fun Events in Camden Maine

Although the summer months bring thousands of visitors to Camden, it truly is a year-round community with something fun to do every season!

In the summer, Camden is home to the annual Parade of the Tallships and Maine Windjammer Days — festivals celebrating the rich sailing history of Camden and a chance to show off some beautiful ships. And, the Harbor Arts and Camden Jazz Festival draw a large community to appreciate the local artists and musicians.

Experience Winter Activities at the Camden Snow Bowl

There are plenty of things to do in Camden during the winter as the town becomes a hot spot for winter sports. The Camden Snow Bowl is a community-owned ski area on Ragged Mountain and the only Eastern ski area with a view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Skiers and snowboarders alike will enjoy this picturesque ski mountain in Camden. In February, Camden Snow Bowl is home to the North American Toboggan Championships. Ice skating and cross-country are also popular winter activities that many Camden visitors enjoy.

Great Places to Eat in Camden Maine

Camden is known for its unique restaurants and top Maine chefs. So when you’re ready to grab some food to start the day, or you’re hungry after a day of exploring, a whole town’s worth of culinary delights await you.

There are many delicious restaurants lining the downtown and waterfront areas, where guests may enjoy freshly caught seafood and other scrumptious meals, or take an order to one of the many public parks in the area for a scenic picnic.

Some of our favorite places to dine in Camden include:

Natalie’s at Camden Harbour Inn

Located at Camden Harbor Inn, this is an award-winning eatery that gives up vibes of a French Bistro. Formal wear is expected and the menu is everything a visitor might expect in a fine-dining experience.

The Waterfront Restaurant

This Camden Harbor institution offers great views of Penobscot Bay and is a great place for outdoor dining. Treat yourself to some fresh Maine seafood or an American classic.

Fresh & Co

If you’re looking for something a little different, this is a great place to visit. If you come with an open mind, you just might enjoy everything on the menu from the bread to the soups to the caviar.

Peter Ott’s on the Water

If you love lobster, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this eatery on Camden Harbor. You can get steamed lobster, lobster corn chowder, lobster BLTs and so much more.

If you’re craving Asian cuisine in mid-Coast Maine, this is the place to go. The chef-owners specialize in colorful soups, noodle dishes, and Asian fusion dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Camden House of Pizza

Operating since 1998, this pizza shop serves up a delicious array of specialty pies and also serves pizza by the slice. If you’re craving something different, try a pasta dinner, a gyro, a burger, or one of several other tasty options.

River Ducks Ice Cream

If you’re craving something sweet on a perfect Maine day, this ice cream stand is family-owned and offers nearly two dozen flavors of ice cream. You can also get sundaes and milkshakes. Enjoy your treat and treat yourself to a view of the river.

The View at 16 Bay View

This is an iconic rooftop bar and terrace in Camden and features breathtaking views of Camden Harbor and Camden Hills State Park. Treat yourself to a cocktail and choose some delicious from the small plates menu.

Here visitors can find delicious Italian fare made with a Mediterranean twist. The menu can change depending on the availability of ingredients, but you can find delicious pasta dishes made with local fare.

Franny’s Bistro

Located in a scenic cottage, this is a great place to get a good meal. The menu features Southern staples as well as seafood specialties and French classics.

Owl & Turtle Bookshop

If you’re in the mood for a good cup of coffee to start your morning, this is a great spot to stop in for some joe and a fresh-baked pastry. You can also find specialty coffees and teas here. Grab your favorite beverage and sit near the harbor with a good book.

Zoot Coffee

Zoot is all about fun and happiness and you’ll find both here as well as lots of yummy food. Start with a cup of coffee or espresso in a coffeehouse setting and order a quiche or baked goods to go with it. You can also order all-fruit smoothies, made with organic fruit and natural juices.

The Best Places to Stay in Camden Maine

If you’re planning a trip to Camden, you may be wondering where you’re going to stay during your trip. Fear not, because Camden has plenty of options to cater to all visitors.

Lodging in Camden can be very unique, as there are many Historic Inns and charming bed and breakfasts to stay at. For larger groups or families, motels, hotels, and waterfront resorts are able to accommodate and please all guests at affordable prices.

Camden weddings have become very popular, as the town is such a picture-perfect spot for your rehearsal and wedding reception, and the ideal starting place for your honeymoon touring the Maine coast .

Lincolnville is Camden’s neighboring town to the north Coast with several great lodging establishments and a Maine winery . Many love visiting the quaint villages of Rockport and Rockland and Owls Head just south of Camden.

Other Nearby Attractions You Need to See

Camden Harbor Park by the beautiful Camden Public Library is a lovely setting for a stroll or a picnic with a picturesque view of all the sailboat masts in the harbor. There’s an Amphitheater here for Camden’s frequent outdoor concerts.

Visit Rockland’s Breakwater of gleaming granite harvested locally, and then browse the Farnsworth Museum — home to Andrew Wyeth and his family’s artwork. All of Rockland has an artsy cool vibe and several exceptional galleries — like the newer Center for Maine Contemporary Art across the street!

Another cool place to visit in Rockland is the Puffin Project Visitor Center . Opened in 2006, the center’s goal is to inform residents and visitors about Project Puffin — an effort to bring puffins and other Maine seabirds back to their nesting areas.

At the visitor center, visitors can watch a video system to see puffins and other Maine seabirds in real time. It’s a great way to learn about how these fascinating birds live and the challenges they’ve had to overcome.

Start Planning Your Trip to Camden Maine Today

If you want to experience the best of everything that Maine has to offer, Camden is where you can find it all. With a historic downtown, waterfront beaches, restaurants, parks, festivals, and much more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy when visiting Camden.

There’s so much to see and do in MidCoast Maine, so start planning your trip to Camden today. Whether you’re looking for culture, history, fresh seafood, or beaches — or you just want to see the ocean — you won’t be disappointed. In fact, you may just want to come back and experience all of it all over again.

There are so many things to do in Camden Maine that we recommend staying for at least a few days. A trip to Camden is one that the whole family will enjoy and remember for a lifetime!

The VisitMaine.Net team is the small team of authors and editors that research and write our in-depth guides throughout the site and update past articles to make sure they're still super valuable to you. We have one goal: to help you fall more in love with the state of Maine!

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Free Historic Walking Tours of Camden

The Camden Public Library is pleased to offer a walking tour of downtown Camden on Fridays at 4:00 p.m., from July 1 through September 16. This entertaining and educational walking tour features a handful of historic sites in downtown Camden, including the Camden Public Library grounds and Amphitheatre, which were designated a National Historic Landmark in 2013. Learn about the people, places, and industries that continue to make Camden a special destination.

The tour begins in the Children’s Garden of the Camden Public Library on Atlantic Avenue and ends at the Village Green. Moderate walking involved; suitable for all ages. Much of the tour will be conducted outdoors and will be weather dependent. Tour guides Amy Rollins and Dave Jackson are now in their eleventh year of giving this tour.

The tour is free of charge and open to all, though donations (to benefit the library) are cheerfully accepted. Reservations are not required. Please contact the library at 207-236-3440 if you have questions.

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Free Historic Walking Tours of Camden

Free Historic Walking Tours of Camden. Meet in the Camden Public Library’s Children’s Garden to enjoy a walking tour of several historic sites in downtown Camden, including the Camden Public Library grounds and Amphitheatre. Learn about the people, places, and industries that continue to make Camden a special destination. The tour ends at the Village Green. Free, donations accepted (to benefit the library). Appropriate for all ages. Moderate amount of walking required.

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Walkers experience an historic walk of Camden. Photo courtesy of Camden Public Library

The Camden Public Library plans to offer a walking tour of downtown Camden at 4 p.m. Fridays from July 1 through Sept. 16.

This educational tour features a handful of historic sites in downtown Camden, including the Camden Public Library grounds and Amphitheatre, which were designated a National Historic Landmark in 2013.

Participants can learn about the people, places and industries that continue to make Camden a special destination, according to a news release from the library.

The tour begins in the Children’s Garden of the library on Atlantic Avenue and ends at the Village Green. Moderate walking is involved; the tour is suitable for all ages.

Much of the tour will be conducted outdoors and will be weather dependent.

The tour is free and open to all, although donations to benefit the library are accepted. Reservations are not required.

For more information, contact the library at 207-236-3440.

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Walking tour of camden, maine.

• Contact: 207.236.7963
• More Information: Website
• Address: The Camden Opera House, Elm Street, Camden, ME, United States

The Camden Public Library and the Camden Downtown Business Group host free walking tours of downtown Camden every Friday at 4:00 pm from June 30 to September 8th. The tours begin at the Children’s Garden of the Camden Public Library on Atlantic Avenue and end at the Opera House. Take the entire tour or just show up at the Opera House front doors at 4:45 for a behind the scenes look at our beautiful restored interior and fun facts including a five minute historic slide show!

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Free Historic Walking Tours of Camden Fridays at 4pm

Free Historic Walking Tours of Camden

The Camden Public Library is pleased to offer a walking tour of downtown Camden on Fridays at 4:00 p.m., from June 30 through September 15. This entertaining and educational walking tour features a handful of historic sites in downtown Camden, including the Camden Public Library grounds and Amphitheatre, which were designated a National Historic Landmark in 2013. Learn about the people, places, and industries that continue to make Camden a special destination.

The tour begins in the Children’s Garden of the Camden Public Library on Atlantic Avenue and ends at the Village Green. Moderate walking involved; suitable for all ages. Much of the tour will be conducted outdoors and will be weather dependent.

The tour is free of charge and open to all, though donations (to benefit the library) are cheerfully accepted. Reservations are not required. Please contact the library at 207-236-3440 if you have questions.

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Charming Camden & Acadia National Park

Maine might just have it all. Historic fishing villages adorning miles of rocky coastline. Romantic schooners weaving around islands and lighthouses. Old roads that hug the coastline and connect one village to another. Winding hiking trails revealing ocean vistas, wildflowers and warblers. Festive meals and freshly plucked crustaceans. It's essential New England. And it's all here. In Maine.

• Lace up your boots and hike the iconic coastal landscapes of New England amid rugged shores, verdant seaside mountains and pristine pine forests
• Venture into Acadia National Park, a stunning national treasure set on majestic Mount Desert Island
• Drink delicious local wine and savor a classic East Coast experience: fresh seafood melting in your mouth
• Discover cliffs rising directly from the rocky coast and explore the captivating villages of Camden and Bar Harbor

Start/End Portland

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Dip your toes in the Atlantic Ocean at Sand Beach as you stroll on Acadia’s impressive Great Head Peninsula • Hike up striking rocky cliffs for a shimmering ocean view • Walk along the historic carriage roads built by John D. Rockefeller, Jr. in the 1900s • Enjoy unparalleled views as you hike in Acadia National Park from the shore of pristine Jordan Pond to the bald peaks of Penobscot Mountain • Stroll the lively streets of Bar Harbor, perched on Mount Desert Island • Trek up mighty Cadillac Mountain and learn about its unique granite trail system • At the summit, soak in 360-degree views of the harbor, Egg Rock Lighthouse and dozens of outlying islands • Head up the narrow trail of Dorr Mountain, Acadia’s second-highest peak, for a look over the east side of the park • Savor fresh-caught lobster and farm-to-table delights.

Spectacular views and elegant accommodations await at this luxury boutique hotel on Frenchman Bay. (pool, spa)

Ascend Camden Hills State Park's Mount Battie for panoramic views of Penobscot Bay • Find European elegance in coastal Maine at our Relais & Châteaux retreat • Camden delights with its seaside beauty, quaint boutiques and seafaring history • Take a scenic sail on a restored windjammer • Surrounded by sailboats, stroll down the historic Breakwater path to a brick-and-wood lighthouse, a local treasure that’s protected the bay from the churning ocean for more than a hundred years • Wind down with a final Backroads picnic as we make our way back to Portland.​

An award-winning restaurant, exceptional hospitality and plush amenities come together to create a "refined stylishness that balances classic with contemporary," according to Andrew Harper. A Relais & Châteaux member. Travel + Leisure World's Best.

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12 Most Beautiful Towns In Maine You Should Visit

• Camden: Experience ocean views, sunset cruises, and charming shops and eateries in this beautiful mid-coast town in Maine.
• Greenville: Surround yourself with forests, mountains, and lakes while hiking, wildlife watching, and taking scenic cruises in this picturesque town.
• Swan's Island: Accessible by ferry, this beach town offers outdoor activities, historical sites, and breathtaking views of the sky and wetlands.

Maine welcomes travelers for jagged peaks and cliff-lined shores, seaside villages and tranquil forests, lobsters and lighthouses, or let each one decide their favorite element here. While the charming towns of Maine are abundant in beauty, it is a place with exemplary culinary scenes, bustling art and culture from the indigenous tribes, plenty of outdoors, beach piers, and good nightlife. Here are some towns in Maine that are undeniably and breathtakingly beautiful.

UPDATE: 2023/09/27 06:04 EST BY NICHOLAS MAYAMBA

12 Of The Most Beautiful Towns In Maine

The small towns in Maine, grossly underrated and overlooked, offer an authentic New England vacation rarely experienced in the bigger, more famous destinations. This updated article lists additional charming towns in Maine where vacationers can enjoy fun coastal escapades and get a feel for the fascinating fall foliage.

Related: 10 Most Scenic Fall Drives In Maine For Leaf Peepers

A self-proclaimed jewel of Maine , Camden beckons ocean lovers, foodies, shopaholics, and adventure lovers. Located in Knox County in Maine’s mid-coast, Camden caters to every traveler's palette. A “Camden Harbor Cruise” allows visitors to witness beautiful boats and lighthouses; meanwhile, the “Schooner Tour” gets them alongside the incredible sunset, coastline, and wildlife. Downtown Camden is a delightful place brimming with cafes, antique shops, seafood eateries, and souvenir binge.

• Things to do: Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe, Smiling Cow, Camden Hills State Park, French & Brawn Market Place, and Owl and Turtle Bookshop
• Where to eat: The Waterfront Restaurant, The Jack, Franny's Bistro, Wolfpeach
• Where to sleep: Glenmoor By The Sea, The Belmont Inn, Camden Maine Stay Inn

Located on Moosehead Lakes, the state’s largest lake, Greenville is exactly in the core of Maine Highlands. Enveloped by ceaseless forests, mountains, and lakes, travelers have plenty of opportunities to hike and experience the beauty of Maine's fall foliage. Be it witnessing a light-colored volcanic rock comprising one of the world’s largest masses of rhyolite or hiking up Mount Kineo, experiencing the moose safari and other wildlife, or opting for various cruises such as Sugar Island Cruise, Moose Cruise, Head of The Lake Cruise, there is so much to explore in the town.

• Things to do: Currier Aviation Museum, Inc., Lily Bay State Park, Big Moose Mountain Ski Area, Moosehead Lake Fireworks Cruise
• Where to eat: Stress-Free Moose Pub, Kelly's Landing, Dockside Inn & Tavern
• Where to sleep: The Lodge at Moosehead Lake, Kineo View Lodge, Moosehead Hills Cabins

Related: 10 Most Charming Fishing Towns In America

Swan’s Island

Accessible by sheer ferry service, Swan’s Island is Maine’s town with a beach and never-ending view of the sky. With its quaint charm, this locale primarily has rich wildlife, recreational activities, and history. Mountain biking down the road, camping, hiking, renting a kayak or canoe, this place has small wetlands and open fields. An island town in Hancock County, it is famous for camping overnight. There are almost 10 campsites overlooking Little Swan Island and the Kennebec River, albeit they can be reached via a ferry leaving from Bass Harbor.

• Things to do: Burnt Coat Harbor Lighthouse, Hockamock Head, Fine Sand Beach
• Where to eat: Quietside Snacks, Coffee Love, Lunt's Dockside Deli, Thurston's Lobster Pound
• Where to sleep: Harbor Watch Inn, Keeper's House Inn, Best Western Arcadia Park Inn

If anyone is touring the Maine coast, Ellsworth is the perfect stop to explore. It is a historical town en route to Acadia National Park and Mount Desert Island. The high street in the Downtown area is considered prominent for shopping in Hancock County. Woodlawn Museum has a tour of historic houses and snowmobile trails for winter recreation; meanwhile, the Telephone Museum and Historic Grand Auditorium have concerts and musical plays that should not be missed. At dusk, the neon lights of Grand’s Marquee in downtown Ellsworth, Maine, add to the vibe.

• Things to do: Stanwood Wildlife Sanctuary, Old Creamery Antique Mall, Black House Museum at Woodlawn, L.L Bean
• Where to eat: Provender Kitchen + Bar, Union River Lobster Pot, Helen's Restaurant of Ellsworth
• Where to sleep: Hampton Inn Ellsworth, Colonial Inn Ellsworth, Ramada by Wyndham Ellsworth

One of the oldest towns in Maine , Castine still retains its historic charm. Steeped in culture and surrounded by scenic views, it is located on a peninsula in Penobscot Bay. Be it historical inns or the Penobscot Narrows Bridge, which is the world’s tallest bridge observatory, navigating through Wilson Museum or Castine Historical Society, visiting Dice Head Lighthouse, Fort Madison, or Fort George, there are many destinations that can be added to the itinerary.

• Things to do: Wilson Museum, Gallery B, Dyce Head Lighthouse, Castine Touring Company, Compass Rose Books
• Where to eat: Margaret's, Pentagoet Inn Wine Bar, Angler's Restaurant, Danny Murphy's Pub
• Where to sleep: The Castine Inn, The Manor Inn, Castine Cottages,

Kingfield is a town in Maine surrounded by the Longfellow Mountain Range at the confluence of the West Branch and Carrabassett Rivers. Encircled by mountains and valleys, it is a ski resort primarily. Nature lovers will have a gala time as they have plenty of activities to choose from, be it hiking, walking, or cross-country skiing. Fishing is quite popular in summer on the Carrabassett River. Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel and Hostel Of Maine are two resorts for the scenic slopeside stay. In the midst, fine dining at Rack BBQ, grabbing a burrito at Rolling Fatties, or a breakfast meal at Kingsfield Woodsman should be a cherry on the cake.

• Things to do: Stanley Museum, Ira Mountain, Maine Ski & Snowboard Museum, Sugarloaf Mountain
• Where to eat: Rack BBQ, Kingsfield Woodsman, Longfellow's Restaurant, Rolling Fatties
• Where to sleep: Sugarloaf Mountain Hotel, Hostel Of Maine, The Inn on Winter's Hill

Related: Good Evening: 10 Serene Night Hiking Trails In The U.S.

Bucksport has notched the place of #1 Seaside Small Town (2021) by USA Today . With gorgeous views of the Penobscot River, Fort Knox, and the impressive Penobscot Narrows Bridge, this town has plenty of attractions and activities. Stubborn Cow Glass, a historical building displaying products from local artisans such as jewelry, lamps, glasses, and bowls; Bucksport Golf and Country Club, a nine-hole course, Camden Hill State Park, famous for fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking, Fort Knox State Park, a historic site, Mount Waldo, highly revered for scenic views, Verona Island with its quaint charm, Great Pond Mountain Wildlands, a heaven for hikers are few of the prime attractions of this town. Don't forget to grab some local beer from Friars' Brewhouse Tap Room. Apart from this, there are a few not to be missed food outlets in Bucksport .

• Things to do: Camden Hill State Park, Bucksport Golf and Country Club, Great Pond Mountain Wildlands, Mount Waldo
• Where to eat: Friars' Brewhouse Tap Room, MacLeaod's Restaurant, Carrier's Mainely Lobster
• Where to sleep: Bucksport Inn, Fort Know Park Inn, Ramada by Wyndham Bangor

A town in Cumberland County, Naples, is enveloped by lakes, ponds, mountains, and forests. Thus, ice fishing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, camping, and swimming are quite popular here. Also, visitors can opt for a cruise to Long Lake on the Songo River Queen 2, accompanied by food and cocktails, or a halt by Sebago Lake State Park, a prime spot for fishing, boating, and camping. Witnessing festivals such as Maine’s Blue Festival and Blue Cruise on Songo Lake will let one experience a vibe. On the other hand, Seaplane Adventure Flight will let one experience adventure.

• Things to do: Sebago Lake State Park Campground, Carousel Horse Farm, Naples Causeway, Naples Marina
• Where to eat: Black Bear Cafe, an Irish pub, Fisherman’s Catch, Freedom’s Cafe,
• Where to sleep: Romah Motor Inn Naples, Lakeview Inn, Augustus Bove House

Boothbay Harbor

Located on hilly terrain, Boothbay Harbor has the charm of a quaint town. Having a working waterfront, Boothbay is surrounded by islands and lighthouses. Thus, it is inevitably popular for kayaking, sailing, and yachting. It also has breweries, quaint shops, and galore eateries. The Lincoln Arts Festival and the Pythian Opera House feature regular exhibits and performances. History buffs can head towards Boothbay Region Historical Museum.

• Things to do: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Opera House at Boothbay Harbor, Burnt Island Light, Penny Lake Preserve
• Where to eat: Boathouse Bistro Tapas Bar & Restaurant, Boothbay Lobster Wharf, Kaler's Restaurant
• Where to sleep: Boothbay Harbor Inn, Boothbay Harbor Oceanside Golf Resort, Brown's Wharf Inn

A picturesque small town, Wiscasset's historic charm can be seen in its ancient buildings, quaint homes, and beautiful churches. A stroll through Fort Edgecomb State Historic Site, visiting the historic mansion, Nickels-Sortwell House in downtown Wiscasset, touring the Castle Trucker, living house of a shipping magnate, Richard Trucker, dropping by Marston House Wiscasset, a shop with French antiques as well as serving bed and breakfast or Peter Eaton Antiques, specifically known for artsy home decor antiques are few the to-do things on the list for roaming around Wiscasset.

• Things to do: Monkey C Monkey Do, Castle Tucker, Fort Edgecomb State Historic Site, Wiscasset Speedway
• Where to eat: Red's Eat, Water Street Kitchen and Bar, Sparague's Lobster
• Where to sleep: Wiscasset Woods Lodge, The Marston House Wiscasset, Residence Inn by Marriott Bath Brunswick Area

This charming Hancock County town lies on the rugged coastline south of Deer Isle, overlooking the picturesque Penobscot Bay. Once famous as a granite mining town, Stonington is revered for its solitude and slow pace of life. However, it's never a dull time in the town, thanks to diverse attractions tailored to impress all types of travelers. The Lighthouse Trail is a popular option for explorers in town, while history buffs can uncover ancient gems at the local Historical Society.

• Things to do : Settlement Quarry, Opera House Arts, Art By Katy Gallery, Stonington Paddle
• Where to eat: Harbor Cafe, The Cockatoo Portuguese Restaurant, North Coffee, Fairway Cafe
• Where to sleep : Boyce's Motel, Inn on the Harbor, Greenlaw's RV Park

One of the most beautiful towns in Maine, Blue Hill comes to its own in the fall, when the charming shades of red, yellow, and orange culminate in a storybook setting. It is an excellent destination for the outdoorsy tourist, surrounded by lush scenery, unspoiled mountain trails, and sparkling water bodies. Those who want to trade the hustle and bustle of the big city for the laid-back vibe of a small town with endless outdoor adventures will feel at home in Blue Hill.

• Things to do: Jud Hartmann Gallery, Blue Hill Historical Society, Jonathan Fisher House, The Activity Shop, Blue Hill Wine Shop
• Where to eat: Arbovine, Fish Net, Sandy's Blue Hill Cafe, Marlintini's
• Where to sleep: Blue Hill Inn, The Farmhouse Inn, Barncastle Hotel & Restaurant

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Daylily Day 2024 at Merryspring Nature Center, July 27

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CAMDEN — The Maine Daylily Society will host Daylily Day at Merryspring Nature Center on Saturday, July 27, at 9 a.m.

Daylilies are blooming in colorful profusion at Merryspring.

Gardener and daylily hybridizer Susan Shaw will share how easy it is to grow and even hybridize daylily varieties on this walk through the Maine Daylily Society Display Garden. Most of the daylilies in the garden are named cultivars, registered with the American Hemerocallis Society. Some space is taken by 4-6 year old blooming seedlings, some that will be selected to register if they prove to be worthy.

Modern daylilies come in many forms including spiders, ruffled bagels, picotees, UFs and doubles.

“From creamy white to diamond-dusted lemon, grape, raspberry, the colors are luscious,” said Merryspring, in a news release.

Tall or small, there are many varied cultivars on display. Divisions of blooming cultivars may be available to order that day.

The Maine Daylily Society is committed to sharing a love for these carefree garden plants.

Merryspring is your community nature center offering walking trails, cultivated gardens, wildlife, and ecology and horticulture educational programs all year round. The park is located at the end of Conway Road, just off of Route 1 in Camden behind Hannaford Shopping Plaza. For more information on this program, please contact  [email protected]  or call 207-236-2239.

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