The Small City In Maine That’s One Of The Coolest In The U.S.
While we think all of Maine is pretty cool, we recognize that some people might not realize it. And that’s okay! That just means more for us! But, we’ve also noticed that news outlets across the country like to include Maine towns on their lists of coolest cities. The one we see most often is Portland. While we agree that Portland is pretty cool, we think there are lots of other cool places throughout the state. That’s why we were pretty excited when we noticed that Matador recently named a different city to their list of coolest cities in America!
The Penobscot Theatre Company has been delighting Maine audiences for over 40 years. It currently exists in the second version of the Bangor Opera House (the first burned down in 1914.) Audiences can enjoy live theatrical performances, music and much more. For more about what's going on, check their website here. Visit them at: 131 Main Street in Bangor / 207-942-3333
If you love the stranger side of Maine, you'll love gawking at that of Paul Bunyan. Minnesota might lay the best claim to him, but Maine's lumber history means we deserve a piece of him looking over us as well. The statue is located in a park across from the Civic Center and stands tall at about 31 feet high.
Whoever said you can't enjoy being outside while in a city never strolled down Bangor's Penobscot River Walkway. The scenic trail runs for about a half mile through Waterfront Park between Union Street and the intersection of Railroad and Front streets. The trail runs along the riverbank and there are tons of events to enjoy at the park throughout the year.
If you complete the river walkway and crave a little more adventure, head to Cascade Park...
Cascade Park is a wonderful way to escape the city without going very far. We think that's pretty cool! You'll find everything from easy to moderate trails here, along with a nice man-made waterfall, a fountain and a gazebo. This is a great place to enjoy a picnic in the summer. It's located on State Street near the riverfront.
This shop is so wonderfully unique that it's worth a stop even just to look around. They stock everything from fossils, jewelry, air plants, succulent and some of the most unique gifts you'll find anywhere. It's fun to go and explore the shelves since there's always something new here! Visit them at: 36 Central Street in Bangor / 207-947-2205
More than just a museum with facts about history and science, the MDM acts as a wonderful community resource. The museum provides a chance for awesome exploration and discovery. And the best part is that it incorporates elements of Maine into a larger understanding of the world. Visit them at: 74 Main Street in Bangor / 207-262-7200
Another opportunity to get lost in the forest without going into the middle of nowhere...
The Bangor City Forest, offers wooded trails the run for several miles. The area offers a great opportunity to understand the local ecology as trails go right though the bog area via a boardwalk. Benches for resting during your walk. The official address is 73 Harlow Street in Bangor / 207-992-4490
If you only think of Portland when you think of concert venues in Maine, you're missing out on one of the most popular spots to see a show in the State. Darlings' has a great view of the river and there's a fair amount of regular seating and lawn space. Click here to check out this summer's schedule! Visit them at: 1 Railroad Street in Bangor / 207-358-9327
Talk about cool! This place looks trendy, but inside offers Mainers the opportunity to celebrate all things Maine. The full service 150-seat restaurant also features a bar and lounge. It's named "Timber" to pay homage to named to the city's rich history in the lumber industry. Visit them at: 22 Bass Park Blvd in Bangor / 207-433-0844
Now that you know about the coolest city, read about the 10 most dangerous cities in Maine here!
