Posted in Maine Attractions June 01, 2022 by

Visit These 12 Artsy Towns In Maine For A Whimsical Day Trip

Maine’s small towns are works of art in and of themselves. From quaint streets to views that go on for miles, just strolling through them can easily take an entire day. One of the things we love best about Maine is the inspiration that’s so easily found here. So, it should come as no surprise that there are a number of artsy towns in Maine that we love visiting. Whether it’s galleries or simply the atmosphere, these are the places to go if you’re looking for inspiration to live life your own way.

1. Kennebunkport, York County
Kennebunkport, ME 04046, USA
philny / Flickr
You might think that The Kennebunks are only to be visited if you're a tourist. While the area is certainly a destination for those visiting from away, Kennebunk and Kennebunkport are also a haven for those who like to buy local. When you consider that local artisan made soap, food and accessories are true works of art you'll understand the vibe that runs through the streets here. Read more about Kennebunkport.
2. Unity, Waldo County
Unity, ME, USA
https://img-aws.ehowcdn.com/700x/cdn.onlyinyourstate.com/maine/most-hippie-town-me/
Maine Organic Farmers And Gardeners Association (MOFGA) / Facebook
Unity is typically considered a hippie town, but we feel it's got a vibrant artsy vibe that makes it fun and inspiring. Make sure you're here for the annual Common Ground Country Fair to partake in everything local and farmgrown. Learn more about Unity, Maine.
3. Belfast, Waldo County
Belfast, ME 04915, USA
Michael Stokes / Flickr
Beautiful Belfast might just be the quirkiest town in Maine. Known by some as "Moonbat Kingdom," it's got a decidedly hippie vibe with lots of great art galleries. But, what really makes this place artsy are the businesses that have made their space their own using art from those in town. In any given coffee shop or restaurant you're likely to find treasures created by locals. Learn more about Belfast.
4. Castine, Hancock County
Castine, ME, USA
ugardener / Flickr
Castine is a wonderfulplace to visit if you love river life. The town is located at the mouth of the Penobscot River estuary, just beyond the Bagaduce River. But what some people overlook is the fact that it's an artists' haven. Visit in July to take part in the 3-day Plein Air Art Festival. Check out more about Castine.
5. Vinalhaven, Knox County
Vinalhaven, ME, USA
jmdelacy / Flickr
Located about 2 hours off the coast of Rockland, Vinalhaven is actually the largest town on the Fox Islands, and the best one for art in Maine. You'll find a true fishing community here, but you'll also feel right at home if you love being where artists live. Enjoy exploring the outdoors in the Lane's Island Preserve, and keep an eye out for the famous Robert Indiana pieces scattered throughout the main area of town. Find out more about Vinalhaven.
6. Norway, Oxford County
Norway, ME 04268, USA
Norway Brewing Company / Facebook
Norway is one of those blink-and-you'll-miss-it towns, but we recommend you don't! Main Street is full of fun shops and restaurants, including Norway Brewing Company. Head further down the street and you'll find a place to knit and drink wine, a vegan restaurant, and other local artists' shops. Read more about Norway, Maine.
7. Port Clyde, Knox County
Port Clyde, St George, ME 04860, USA
jkbashkin / Flickr
You'll find Port Clyde on the southernmost section of the St. George peninsula in central Maine. While it was a busy port with granite quarries, tide mills for sawing timber, shipbuilding and fish canning businesses in the 19th century, today the area's quiet location attracts artists and writers. Learn more about St. George, Maine.
8. Monhegan Island, Lincoln County
Monhegan Island, Monhegan, ME 04852, USA
ugardener / Flickr
Monhegan has a thriving year-round community of artists that have chosen to live here for the near constant natural inspiration. You can visit via the ferries from Boothbay, Port Clyde, and New Harbor. Gallery hopping is a great way to spend a day trip here. You'll certainly have plenty to explore. You can check out a list of some of the best art galleries in Maine located on the island along with their schedules and opening hours. See more about Monhegan Island Galleries.
9. Blue Hill, Hancock County
Blue Hill, ME, USA
ugardener / Flickr
Blue Hill is beautiful for nature lovers, but in the last few years it's also become a place that artists and makers are drawn to. Local writers have also made a name for themselves here. It's no wonder that the local shops and restaurants are kept busy here. There are nearly 2,500 year-round residents! Check out more about Blue Hill, Maine.
10. Bath, Sagadahoc County
Bath, ME 04530, USA
davidwilson1949 / Flickr
Bath is a well-known destination for those that enjoy maritime history, but it's also the home of one of the best arts centers in the state. The Chocolate Church Arts Center hosts community events, plays, musical acts and provides a place for local artists to come together for the benefit of all. Learn more about Chocolate Church Arts.
11. Brooklin, Hancock County
Brooklin, ME 04616, USA
smilla4 / Flickr
You might know about this small town because it's home to the Brooklin Boat Yard. What you might not know is that it's also home to artists, writers, musicians, and potters. In fact, it's one of the most artsy places in Maine. You can visit Brooklin when you're out exploring Blue Hill to make for a day full of art. Find out more about Brooklin, Maine.
12. Portland, Cumberland County
Portland, ME, USA
flissphil / Flickr
Oh, Portland. There's no way we could leave this biggie off the list of artsy towns in Maine. Between the numerous galleries, the art spots (like SPACE Gallery) and the pop-up events that take place throughout the year, this might be Maine's most artsy city. We love the First Friday Art Walk and the Portland Fringe Fest, but show up any day of the week and you're likely to feel inspired to create! Read more about Portland, Maine.

To learn more about one of the most artsy towns in Maine (hint: it’s mentioned above!) check out this article. It provides things to see, places to eat, and even some history.

Address: Kennebunkport, ME 04046, USA
Address: Bath, ME 04530, USA
Address: Castine, ME, USA
Address: Belfast, ME 04915, USA
Address: Norway, ME 04268, USA
Address: Port Clyde, St George, ME 04860, USA
Address: Blue Hill, ME, USA
Address: Portland, ME, USA
Address: Unity, ME, USA
Address: Brooklin, ME 04616, USA
Address: Vinalhaven, ME, USA
Address: Monhegan Island, Monhegan, ME 04852, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center

Artsy Towns in Maine

June 06, 2022
Danielle Schwartz

What is the most scenic town in Maine?

There are lots of scenic towns in Maine, and you’ll love the many different charming towns you can see in our beautiful state! One of the towns that will undoubtedly go on your favorites list is Rockport in Knox County. With stunning water views, full trees with gorgeous greenery and fall foliage, and interesting American history, there is plenty to like about Rockport. Another great town is Stonington in Hancock County. This is great place to see that classic Maine beach cottage architecture you know and love.

What is the smallest town in Maine?

The smallest town in Maine is Frye Island, which has a seasonal-only population. It’s among the most unique islands in Maine and makes a perfect little vacation spot when you’re looking for a getaway in the warmer months of the year. From November through April, it has no residents at all, but there are usually about 32 people during the rest of the year. That makes Frye Island a great tourist destination for you, your family, and friends.

Where can I go to get the best photos in Maine?

If you’re looking to be part of the art scene yourself, whether through photography, drawing, or painting, check out these secret places in Maine to create the most original art in town! Norway, Maine features jaw-dropping views of nature that will inspire you to create your best pieces yet. And if you want to see several places in one day, take a beautiful drive on The Bold Coast Scenic Byway. In three hours, you’ll have the chance to find some of the most beautiful spots in the state.

 

Address: Kennebunkport, ME 04046, USA
Address: Bath, ME 04530, USA
Address: Castine, ME, USA
Address: Belfast, ME 04915, USA
Address: Norway, ME 04268, USA
Address: Port Clyde, St George, ME 04860, USA
Address: Blue Hill, ME, USA
Address: Portland, ME, USA
Address: Unity, ME, USA
Address: Brooklin, ME 04616, USA
Address: Vinalhaven, ME, USA
Address: Monhegan Island, Monhegan, ME 04852, USA