10 Charming River Towns In Maine To Visit This Summer
Maine has over 5,000 rivers that were created by glaciers during the last ice age. With that many opportunities to find yourself riverside, it might be overwhelming to find the best places to explore. So, we’ve gathered just a few of our favorite, most lovely Maine river towns. These can be explored over a weekend, or split them up into a few weekends. Some can be found on both a river and near the ocean, so there’s lots of opportunity for enjoying the water!
Surry is a beautiful town located close to lots of other well-known Maine destinations. When you're there, check out the Wave Walker Bed and Breakfast, which gets rave reviews.
Ogunquit features the Atlantic on one side and the Ogunquit River on the other. It's the best of both worlds! In addition to being a tourist destination in Southern Maine, it's also a burgeoning artist colony. The Ogunquit Museum of American Art features work by well-known artists including Roy Liechtenstein, Edward Hopper and Thomas Hart Benton.
Explore the Saco River and enjoy kayaking, tubing and even jumping from bridges. Always check the depth of the water first, though! Then make sure to factor in some time to hit the Saco Bay Trails for some hiking and nature exploring.
Sitting on the west side of the mouth of the Kennebec River, Phippsburg is a lovable small town with a tight community. There's no shortage of outdoors to enjoy here. You'll find the Bates-Morse Mountain Conservation Area, Fort Popham State Historic Site; along with Fort Baldwin which overlooks Fort Popham. Head over to Popham Beach State Park and Pond Island National Wildlife Refuge for even more of that lovely slow pace. The population here is about 2,200.
If you've heard of Damariscotta it very well may be because you love seafood. The Damariscotta River is a go-to waterway for all kinds of boating and fishing. And its waters produce Pemaquid oysters as well as the local mussels that can be found in neighborhood restaurants. After exploring this summer, try to plan a visit to the town in the fall when you can enjoy the Damariscotta Pumpkinfest featuring painted pumpkins, a pie-eating contest, and the fun pumpkin regatta!
The small and historic town of Castine sits at the mouth of the Penobscot River estuary, just beyond the Bagaduce River. You might know it for its maritime ties, but it's also an artists' haven. Visit in July to take part in the 3-day Plein Air Art Festival. To get out onto the river, check out the daily tours put on by Castine Kayak.
Belfast is a great town to make your homebase for a weekend trip to the midcoast. Check out the shops in town, but make sure you plan your visit to coincide with a Friday in July and August when you'll have an opportunity to join the Belfast Art Gallery Walk featuring more than 15 galleries.
Bath is renowned for its shipbuilding industry and has become known as the "city of ships." The famous "Bath Iron Works" can still be found here. Stop by the Maine Maritime Museum as well as the Chocolate Church Arts Center which often hosts incredible community events.
Kennebunkport is already a wonderful waterfront destination, but it's made even more special by the river that's a part of it. Spend some time sightseeing at the historic, old captain's homes. But, then head to the Clam Shack for some casual deliciousness!
Most people think of this lovely Maine town in terms of its famous lobster roll spot - Red's Eats. But don't stop there! Spend some time walking along the Black River before taking a step back into history by visiting the 19th-century Federal-style mansions at Castle Tucker and the Nickels-Sortwell House.
For more waterfront fun in Maine, check out these restaurants located on rivers, lakes and beaches.
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