Posted in Maine
January 10, 2021
7 Hidden Gems In Maine That Actually Used To Be Tourist Traps
There’s a lot to see and do in Maine, but some of our favorite things are the ones that others might think aren’t worth the trip. These are the wacky, weird, and unexpected things that some people might believe aren’t worth the trip. But, we’d argue that these things are exactly what visitors and residents should prioritize!
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life. While we continue to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, please take proper precautions or add them to your bucket list to see at a later date. If you know of a local business that could use some extra support during these times, please nominate them here: onlyinyourstate.com/nominate
Head north to the county for the scaled model of our solar system. Created by the University of Maine in Presque Isle, this model begins with the sun in Presque Isle and goes all the way to Houlton where you'll find the (now defunct as a planet) Pluto.
This Fort was built in 1942 as part of efforts to support World War II. From the outside, the area appears to be completely left to nature. Overgrown trees and branches crowd what appears to be a crumbling facade. However, the real magic of Battery Steele lies underground. The bulk of the fort is made up of an underground area. These tunnels have been overtaken by artists and the mark of local Maine residents and friends covers the walls.
If you prefer your life-sized things to be edible, head to Len Libby Chocolatier to see the 1,700-pound milk chocolate creation. Lenny the moose has been delighting visitors since 1997 with his hand-sculpted body and white chocolate lake.
Located in York, The Wiggly Bridge is a lovely hidden way to explore the area. The bridge connects York Harbor to the wonderful Steedman Woods. As suspension bridges go, the wooden portion spans a teensy 75 feet and when you walk, the entire thing bounces and — you guessed it — wiggles!
Perry's Nut House began back in 1927 when I.L. Perry opened the shop to sell the bumper crop of Pecans growing in the South. Over the years, he added curios and oddities and the shop, making it a nationally known stop. The store included things such as an alligator hide, trick mirrors, boxing bear cubs, and a water buffalo shot by Teddy Roosevelt! Today it's still worth a visit for great candy and nuts, plus truly unique photo ops.
In West Pembroke, a tidal flow alternately fills and drains both Whiting Bay and Dennys Bay. The salt water flows incredibly fast into the bays over rocks causing the appearance of "falls."
This museum gets rave reviews, not only for the many vintage comic books, animation cells, and dolls from early Disney movies but also for the owner himself. John Fawcett has poured his heart and soul into amassing a collection of this magnitude and his expertise about each piece is remarkable. Don't miss this if you love anything vintage or anything toy-related!
What are your favorite tourist traps to see? Let us know in the comments so we can add it to our must-see list!
And once you check these things out we’ve got more for you! Here are 11 hidden gems to explore in Maine when you think you’ve done it all!
Address: Presque Isle, ME, USA
Address: Peaks Island, ME 04108, USA
Address: 419 US-1, Scarborough, ME 04074, USA
Address: York, ME 03909, USA
Address: 45 Searsport Ave, Belfast, ME 04915, USA
Address: Reversing Falls Rd, Pembroke, ME 04666, USA
Address: 3468 Atlantic Hwy, Waldoboro, ME 04572, USA
