Why Everyone In Maine Should Visit This One Tiny Town
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Michelle
Author
Hallowell has been on our must-do list for a while now, so when we had a chance to visit after a trip to camp in Winthrop, it was a no-brainer. The 6.1-mile town (actually, it’s considered the smallest city in Maine!) is located on the banks of the Kennebec and offers tons in the form of food, shopping and summer festivals!
Deacon Pease Clark and his family were considered the first settlers. As the legend goes, the arrived in Hallowell and took shelter in their own overturned cart near what is today Water Street.
In its early history, Hallowell was bustling, with more than 70 shops along Water Street and nearly 2,500 residents. Residents were involved in the logging, trading, and shipbuilding industries.
It was incorporated as a city in 1850, and continued to thrive, in part because of its access to the Kennebec River allowing for an export business in things like textiles, wire, shoes and books.
In its early history, Hallowell was bustling, with more than 70 shops along Water Street and nearly 2,500 residents. Residents were involved in the logging, trading, and shipbuilding industries.
It was incorporated as a city in 1850, and continued to thrive, in part because of its access to the Kennebec River allowing for an export business in things like textiles, wire, shoes and books.
The downtown was revitalized, allowing it to flourish again. At the time it was a notable town to find beautiful antiques, but today it's become a wonderful place to spend a day for many other reasons!
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And, there are plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy.
You'll love the offering lobster rolls, hot dogs and delicious Gifford's ice cream. // 176 Water Street
The Liberal Cup is possibly the closest you'll feel to England without having to set food outside Maine. Inside feels like a proper English pub and the local vibe provides the perfect atmosphere to cozy up with a pint and their famous beer cheese soup. // 115 Water Street // 207-623-2739
This is the largest antique store the city and features items from more than 30 dealers. Prices are reasonable, which means you'll probably wish you parked nearby so more easily haul your new things back before continuing your trip downtown! // 91 Water Street // 207) 430-8315
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This clay studio offers classes for kids and adults. There are 1 day workshops, 8 week classes, as well as summer camps. And, there's a small gallery with handmade pottery and jewelry. // 157 Water Street // (207) 480-1122
Since 2014, Juiced. has been serving juices, smoothies, protein shakes, wraps, salads, paninis, tea, coffee, espresso, and baked goods. // 130 Water Street // (207) 623-7700
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One of the best things about this spot is the variety of specialty cocktails that are created using spirits made right here in Maine! The menu features tapas-style small plates for sharing, and entertainment includes fun local musicians on weekends. // 119 Water Street // (207) 621-1234
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An afternoon here means relaxing with patio games and laid back seating.
The Quarry Tap has 30 Domestic and Micro Brew Beers on tap, many of which are bound to be Maine brewed! The menu is unique, and features things you're not likely to find anywhere else in town. For instance, mozzarella stuffed meatballs tossed in Parmesan cheese, then fried in duck fat and served on a bed of homemade sauce! // 122 Water Street // (207) 213-6173
The Quarry Tap has 30 Domestic and Micro Brew Beers on tap, many of which are bound to be Maine brewed! The menu is unique, and features things you're not likely to find anywhere else in town. For instance, mozzarella stuffed meatballs tossed in Parmesan cheese, then fried in duck fat and served on a bed of homemade sauce! // 122 Water Street // (207) 213-6173
You're likely to hear live music coming out of these walls and if you love to dance, you'll probably find yourself inside! // 1 Wharf Street // (207) 622-9290
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Click here to check out what to see the rest of the summer!
On August 16th, this music and arts festival hits the town with a free concert at the local bandstand at 2pm. Come to celebrate with a recreation of some of the best songs of Woodstock. The event will also include art vendors along Granite Park and one of the most special parts...the peace flag that will stretch down the length of town! Click here to learn more.
Another great thing about Hallowell? It’s got tons of fun outdoor activities just outside of town! Check out the Kennebec Rail Trail (included in this article about great Maine trails) and this beautiful Hobbitland, just minutes from downtown.
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