10 Small Towns In Maine Where Everyone Knows Your Name

It's hard to drive a mile in Maine without passing through a small town. In fact, we have more than 150 places in the state that qualify as "very small towns and villages" according to census compilation site, city-data.com. According to the site, this refers to places with less than 1,000 Mainahs.

But, really, for many of us a small town is all in the state of mind. Do you leave your front door unlocked? Keys in the car? Can you drive your ATV to pick up milk? Are your elementary school teachers now teaching your own children? If so, you might live in small-town Maine. One of the best parts of living in this state is the small town feel you can get just about anywhere. While we love (almost) all of them, here are just a few of the small towns in Maine where you'll find that everyone knows your name.

1. Allagash, Aroostook County, Population 239

To be fair, the people here will only know your name if you can find them. Allagash is truly tiny! But, it's on the list because the folks are some of the nicest and the town is beautiful. Perhaps best known for the brewery of the same name, it's great for so much more than just that. The confluence of the Allagash and St. John Rivers are located in the northern town of Allagash, making it a nice place for some outdoor activities. Wish you could call it home? Come for Moosetowner Day and be dunked in the Allagash River, earning yourself a certificate and Moosetowner hat making you an honorary Moosetowner.

2. Brooklin, Hancock County, Population 824

Brooklin has earned its way onto this list for plenty of good reasons. Take a trip here to see the Brooklin Boat Yard as well as to meet artists, writers, musicians, and potters. Combine this with a trip to Blue Hill, a lovely little village with a general store, galleries and places to sleep. If you can't make the trip, pick up a copy of any E.B. White book to get a literary sense of the place. Much of his inspiration came from his (adopted) hometown of Brooklin.

3. Camden, Knox County, Population 3,570

This is, admittedly, not exactly a small town. But, we just couldn't leave it off. We've created other small town articles and any that don't include Camden always feels a little...off. Despite an influx in tourists during the season, this is a lovely place to relax downtown with a beer, coffee or a nice meal. There's plenty to do, from a hike through Camden Hills to visiting Curtis Island Light. And, who knows, some of those tourists just might learn your name.

4. Castine, Hancock County, Population 1,366

Home to the Maine Maritime Academy, Castine has a rich seafaring history. When you're there, check out the town's post office - the oldest, continuously running one in the USA.

5. Eastport, Washington County, Population 1,308

Not only is Eastport unique for being the easternmost city in the US (not to be confused with Lubec, which is the easternmost municipality), but it is also a city comprised solely of islands. Come in July for the annual July 4th Codfish Relay (which is actually part of a larger celebration of both the US and Canada) and stay for the Salmon Festival in September. If you leave and crave more, come back for the New Year's Eve sardine drop at midnight.

6. The Eustis, Stratton, Coplin Area, Franklin County, Population 618-ish

This area is one that we love. With its lovely woods and friendly people, this area would make a nice place for dinner. Specifically, stop in for a meal at The Coplin Dinner House. Thursday night is pub night featuring all-you-can-eat fish and chips.

7. Fryeburg, Oxford County, Population 1,631

The inclusion of Fryeburg is a result of its pure beauty and things to do. In addition to conservation land and its close proximity to the outdoor wonderland that are the White Mountains, you'll also find cafes, restaurants and shops. A perfect place to make yourself at home.

8. Rangeley, Franklin County, Population 1,168

Rangeley just might be the perfect town on this list. In addition to being the site of many a Mainer's camp, it's also got tons of conservation land, great fishing and some incredibly delicious and friendly food. Check out The Shed BBQ for a casual meal and then get yourself to Moose Alley for some bowling with friends during the off-season.

9. St. Agatha, Aroostook County, Population 747

Rural St. Agatha is just a few miles from the Canadian border. Visitors come for access to 6,000-acre Long Lake and for the myriad recreational activities such as access to snowmobile & atv trails.

10. Vinalhaven, Knox County, Population 1,165

Vinalhaven is a town on the Fox Islands accessible by ferry from Rockland. Oftentimes used to refer to the entire island, Vinalhaven is one of the smallest towns on this list and offers visitors a handful of locally owned bars and restaurants, many of which shutter for the winter. Come for lovely walks in the Lane's Island Preserve, a look at the Robert Indiana pieces scattered throughout, and for at least one night at the beautiful Tidewater Motel.

What are your favorite small towns in Maine? Let us know over on our Facebook page!