towns to visit near camden maine

Camden Maine Vacation Guide | Best Things to Do in Camden This Year

The town of Camden is the self-described Jewel of the Maine coast. Located in MidCoast Maine , Camden is a haven for ocean lovers, foodies , shoppers, and outdoor adventurers.

In the summer months, the population more than triples due to visitors and seasonal residents, many of whom reside in gorgeous ocean-view estates around the harbor.

Getting to Know Camden Maine

Despite some early exploration of Camden Hills, then known as Penobscot Hills in the 1600s, Camden didn’t become a permanent settlement in Maine for another 150 years.

James Richards was the first recorded settler of Camden in 1769 when the first real settlers to the area arrived. The town’s name comes from Charles Pratt, the first Earl of Camden, and was named after the Revolutionary War in 1791.

In its first 100 years, Camden prospered in industries such as shipbuilding, anchor manufacturing, and lime production. The lime industry was located in the town of Goose River which separated from Camden in 1891 and was renamed Rockport.

In 1892, most of downtown Camden burned in a large fire. Buildings downtown were subsequently rebuilt with brick, and today Camden’s historic downtown has become an iconic part of the city.

With its access to the harbor and natural beauty, Camden has long been a popular summer resort destination, especially for wealthy families. By the late 19th century, sprawling estates and mansions dotted the area around Camden.

Today, many of those estates have become bed and breakfasts, and Camden’s popularity as a resort town led to much development in the town, including the creation of the Camden amphitheater, the public library, and much more.

Fascinating Facts About Camden Maine

Camden is home to the only ocean-view ski area on the Eastern Seaboard — Camden Snow Bowl! Here the annual National Toboggan Championships are held every February.
Most of the 1995 kids’ movie “Casper” was filmed in Camden because the production crew felt it had an authentic field.
Besides Casper, several movies have been filmed in Camden, including “Captains Courageous,” “Carousel,” “Peyton Place,” “Head Above Water,” and “In the Bedroom.”
Captain George Weymouth of the ship Archangel first saw Camden Hills in 1605. He and Captain John Smith — of Jamestown and Pocahontas fame — arrived to explore Camden and the surrounding area.

FAQs About Camden Maine

Where is camden maine.

Camden is located in Knox County in Maine’s MidCoast. It’s about 90 minutes from Portland and less than an hour from Augusta .

What is there to do in Camden Maine?

A better question is what isn’t there to do? You can explore Camden’s historic downtown, visit a nearby lighthouse, visit a local park, eat some fresh Maine seafood, and so much more.

When is a good time to visit Camden Maine?

Summer and winter are considered to be the peak seasons for activity in Camden. But, locals may tell you April-June is the best time because it offers a more relaxed pace before the busy tourist season .

What is special about Camden Maine?

Camden is full of rich history. There’s stunning architecture, plenty of places to shop, and more than enough beautiful scenery.

Things to Do in Camden Maine

There is something to experience in Camden for every traveler, whether you are looking to actively hike and explore Camden Hills State Park or relax on a sailboat as it glides over the cool ocean waves in Penobscot Bay .

Tour Camden Harbor

Located right on Penobscot Bay, Camden is a sailor’s dream. Camden Harbor is home to numerous schooners and tall ships that offer daily sailing tours and excursions . Visitors may choose to charter their own ships or sail for several days on a majestic ocean vessel, learning to hoist the sails or relaxing on the deck in the cool ocean breezes.

A Camden harbor cruise is a fun way to see the beautiful boats and schooners that port here and venture out to a few lighthouses and beautiful Penobscot Bay — one of our favorite places to sail in all of Maine! Lively Lady offers harbor cruises from Camden’s docks daily.

Enjoy a Schooner tour in Camden aboard Schooner Surprise — we suggest a sunset cruise. As the sails are raised, the wind will be in your hair and you’ll see wildlife from this authentic 1918 race ship with only the power of the wind behind you. A ride around the harbor will pass island ferries, mega-yachts, powerboats, fishing boats, Maine windjammers , and more!

Penobscot Bay itself has been said to be one of the best and most scenic sailing areas in the state of Maine. Camden remains a working harbor, with lobstering and fishing boats traveling in and out of the Bay each day to catch fresh seafood and lobster.

Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe - Camden, Maine

Shop in Downtown Camden

Downtown Camden is a delight of upscale shops, antique shops , general stores, seafood eateries, and cafes. Plus, it has the most beautiful waterfront and the Camden Public Library, which is surrounded by a lovely park for picnicking.

Pop into Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe , The Smiling Cow , and French & Brawn Market Place for the perfect picnic provisions and Maine-made yummies. Explore Owl & Turtle Bookshop Cafe and the Cashmere Goat too. Renys is a Maine shopping adventure in Camden…you won’t know you need it until you find it here!

Pay a Visit to Merryspring Nature Center

Open daily from sunrise to sunset, Merryspring Nature Center is a paradise if you love nature. Spread across 66 acres, the park is free to visit and there’s so much to see.

Marvel at Merryspring’s specialty gardens’ dazzling array of roses, daylilies, annuals, and perennials. If you want to explore even further, 10 nature trails wind around the property for visitors to explore on their own.

Merryspring is also a nonprofit educational center and routinely offers talks on topics dealing with plants, gardening, wildlife, and so much more.

See a Performance at the Camden Opera House

If you’re looking to soak up music, history, and culture all in one spot, you can’t go wrong with a visit to the Camden Opera House .

This 500-seat venue is more than 100 years old and continues to draw visitors for its Victorian-era architecture and details. If you love historic buildings, you’ll be in awe of the large chandeliers, the antique moldings, and even the stenciling. The detail here is immaculate!

Best of all, the opera house hosts a fun variety of entertainment — including films, classical music concerts, musicals, comedians, and more. Watching a performance here is a highlight of any trip to Camden.

Visit Camden Hills State Park

Looking for things to do in Camden Maine? A trip to Camden Hills State Park allows visitors to view a gorgeous sunrise or sunset over Penobscot Bay from the top of Mt. Battie.

Camden Hills State Park encompasses 5,700 acres, including over 30 miles of hiking and walking trails. You may tour the park on your own or with a local Maine Guide.

Camden Hills State Park is great for families with children because the hiking trails are not very strenuous or long and usually have very moderate inclines. However, if you don’t feel like hiking, drive the Auto Road up Mt. Battie for panoramic views of the Bay and nearby islands.

Also, the park is home to over a hundred campsites and a large picnic area for those visitors who wish to stay a little longer. In addition, Maiden Cliff is one of the more popular hiking trails — an 800-foot rock cliff that provides spectacular views of Megunticook Lake and the Maine countryside.

Explore Some of Maine’s Best Beaches

Beachgoers will love Barrett’s Cove , a freshwater beach on Megunticook Lake. This beach is a quiet and relaxing escape from notoriously busy Camden in the summer months. It is often not crowded, and the lake water remains relatively warm during prime season.

The beach is open to the public with designated swimming areas, public restrooms, and showers. There is also a grassy picnic area with tables and outdoor grills and a playground for the kids to enjoy.

Laite Memorial Beach is small but scenic, overlooking beautiful views of Camden Harbor just a short distance from downtown. It’s part of a grassy park that slopes down to a pebble beach along the water, perfect for searching for shells, sea glass, and other ocean treasures.

The park itself has swings, picnic tables, grills, and restroom facilities. There is a swimming platform offshore for those brave enough to swim in the chilly harbor waters.

Curtis Island Lighthouse - Camden, Maine

Tour Lighthouses Near Camden Maine

It is worth a day trip to visit one of Camden’s outlying islands — Isleboro, Vinalhaven, North Haven, Isle Au Haut, and more — accessible by boat or ferry out of Camden Harbor.

Many of these islands are home to great hiking and biking trails, quaint seaside villages, and picturesque Maine lighthouses . In fact, there are 18 lighthouses within a 40-mile radius of Camden, some of which include:

Curtis Island Lighthouse is located at the entrance to Camden Harbor and is still actively used by the US Coast Guard.
Vinalhaven is home to Brown’s Head Light and Heron Neck Light . Vinalhaven is also famous for its resident swordfish captain and author Linda Greenlaw who wrote “The Lobster Chronicles: Life on a Very Small Island,” “A Hungry Ocean”The Hungry Ocean: A Swordboat Captain’s Journey,” “Slipknot,” “All Fishermen are Liars”All Fishermen Are Liars: True Tales from the Dry Dock Bar,” and her own Maine cookbook, “Recipes from a Very Small Island.”
Goose Rocks Light is located between the islands of Vinalhaven and North Haven, marking the dangerous rock ledge beneath it.
Isle au Haut is home to Isle au Haut Light . Visitors to this tower may also choose to stay at the original innkeeper’s house, which has been turned into a quaint bed and breakfast with no electricity!

Windjammer Festival - Camden, Maine - Fall Festivals in Maine

Attend Fun Events in Camden Maine

Although the summer months bring thousands of visitors to Camden, it truly is a year-round community with something fun to do every season!

In the summer, Camden is home to the annual Parade of the Tallships and Maine Windjammer Days — festivals celebrating the rich sailing history of Camden and a chance to show off some beautiful ships. And, the Harbor Arts and Camden Jazz Festival draw a large community to appreciate the local artists and musicians.

Experience Winter Activities at the Camden Snow Bowl

There are plenty of things to do in Camden during the winter as the town becomes a hot spot for winter sports. The Camden Snow Bowl is a community-owned ski area on Ragged Mountain and the only Eastern ski area with a view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Skiers and snowboarders alike will enjoy this picturesque ski mountain in Camden. In February, Camden Snow Bowl is home to the North American Toboggan Championships. Ice skating and cross-country are also popular winter activities that many Camden visitors enjoy.

The Waterfront Restaurant - Camden, Maine

Great Places to Eat in Camden Maine

Camden is known for its unique restaurants and top Maine chefs. So when you’re ready to grab some food to start the day, or you’re hungry after a day of exploring, a whole town’s worth of culinary delights await you.

There are many delicious restaurants lining the downtown and waterfront areas, where guests may enjoy freshly caught seafood and other scrumptious meals, or take an order to one of the many public parks in the area for a scenic picnic.

Some of our favorite places to dine in Camden include:

Natalie’s at Camden Harbour Inn

Located at Camden Harbor Inn, this is an award-winning eatery that gives up vibes of a French Bistro. Formal wear is expected and the menu is everything a visitor might expect in a fine-dining experience.

The Waterfront Restaurant

This Camden Harbor institution offers great views of Penobscot Bay and is a great place for outdoor dining. Treat yourself to some fresh Maine seafood or an American classic.

Fresh & Co

If you’re looking for something a little different, this is a great place to visit. If you come with an open mind, you just might enjoy everything on the menu from the bread to the soups to the caviar.

Peter Ott’s on the Water

If you love lobster, you can’t go wrong with a visit to this eatery on Camden Harbor. You can get steamed lobster, lobster corn chowder, lobster BLTs and so much more.

If you’re craving Asian cuisine in mid-Coast Maine, this is the place to go. The chef-owners specialize in colorful soups, noodle dishes, and Asian fusion dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.

Camden House of Pizza

Operating since 1998, this pizza shop serves up a delicious array of specialty pies and also serves pizza by the slice. If you’re craving something different, try a pasta dinner, a gyro, a burger, or one of several other tasty options.

River Ducks Ice Cream

If you’re craving something sweet on a perfect Maine day, this ice cream stand is family-owned and offers nearly two dozen flavors of ice cream. You can also get sundaes and milkshakes. Enjoy your treat and treat yourself to a view of the river.

The View at 16 Bay View

This is an iconic rooftop bar and terrace in Camden and features breathtaking views of Camden Harbor and Camden Hills State Park. Treat yourself to a cocktail and choose some delicious from the small plates menu.

Here visitors can find delicious Italian fare made with a Mediterranean twist. The menu can change depending on the availability of ingredients, but you can find delicious pasta dishes made with local fare.

Franny’s Bistro

Located in a scenic cottage, this is a great place to get a good meal. The menu features Southern staples as well as seafood specialties and French classics.

Owl & Turtle Bookshop

If you’re in the mood for a good cup of coffee to start your morning, this is a great spot to stop in for some joe and a fresh-baked pastry. You can also find specialty coffees and teas here. Grab your favorite beverage and sit near the harbor with a good book.

Zoot Coffee

Zoot is all about fun and happiness and you’ll find both here as well as lots of yummy food. Start with a cup of coffee or espresso in a coffeehouse setting and order a quiche or baked goods to go with it. You can also order all-fruit smoothies, made with organic fruit and natural juices.

The Best Places to Stay in Camden Maine

If you’re planning a trip to Camden, you may be wondering where you’re going to stay during your trip. Fear not, because Camden has plenty of options to cater to all visitors.

Lodging in Camden can be very unique, as there are many Historic Inns and charming bed and breakfasts to stay at. For larger groups or families, motels, hotels, and waterfront resorts are able to accommodate and please all guests at affordable prices.

Camden weddings have become very popular, as the town is such a picture-perfect spot for your rehearsal and wedding reception, and the ideal starting place for your honeymoon touring the Maine coast .

Lincolnville is Camden’s neighboring town to the north Coast with several great lodging establishments and a Maine winery . Many love visiting the quaint villages of Rockport and Rockland and Owls Head just south of Camden.

Other Nearby Attractions You Need to See

Camden Harbor Park by the beautiful Camden Public Library is a lovely setting for a stroll or a picnic with a picturesque view of all the sailboat masts in the harbor. There’s an Amphitheater here for Camden’s frequent outdoor concerts.

Visit Rockland’s Breakwater of gleaming granite harvested locally, and then browse the Farnsworth Museum — home to Andrew Wyeth and his family’s artwork. All of Rockland has an artsy cool vibe and several exceptional galleries — like the newer Center for Maine Contemporary Art across the street!

Another cool place to visit in Rockland is the Puffin Project Visitor Center . Opened in 2006, the center’s goal is to inform residents and visitors about Project Puffin — an effort to bring puffins and other Maine seabirds back to their nesting areas.

At the visitor center, visitors can watch a video system to see puffins and other Maine seabirds in real time. It’s a great way to learn about how these fascinating birds live and the challenges they’ve had to overcome.

Isle au Haut Light - Isle au Haut, Maine

Start Planning Your Trip to Camden Maine Today

If you want to experience the best of everything that Maine has to offer, Camden is where you can find it all. With a historic downtown, waterfront beaches, restaurants, parks, festivals, and much more, there’s something for everyone to enjoy when visiting Camden.

There’s so much to see and do in MidCoast Maine, so start planning your trip to Camden today. Whether you’re looking for culture, history, fresh seafood, or beaches — or you just want to see the ocean — you won’t be disappointed. In fact, you may just want to come back and experience all of it all over again.

There are so many things to do in Camden Maine that we recommend staying for at least a few days. A trip to Camden is one that the whole family will enjoy and remember for a lifetime!

The VisitMaine.Net team is the small team of authors and editors that research and write our in-depth guides throughout the site and update past articles to make sure they're still super valuable to you. We have one goal: to help you fall more in love with the state of Maine!

Camden, Rockport & Lincolnville

The towns of Camden, Rockport and Lincolnville are located in the heart of coastal Maine along Penobscot Bay. Rockport and Camden have working harbors full of fishing boats, schooners and boat yards. These seaside towns have a vibrant artist community – Route 1 is lined with galleries and shops where you can peruse locally made arts and crafts.

Things to Do in Camden, Rockport and Lincolnville

In the summer, stop by the Camden Windjammer Festival , the largest gathering of windjammers in the northeast. There are events all day including the exciting (and odd) lobster crate races. You can hike the 30 miles of trails and choose from among more than 100 campsites at Camden Hills State Park . Take in a show at the historic Camden Opera House . Each year, filmmakers from around the world come to Camden to the Camden International Film Festival .

Winter here is a blast! At the nearby Camden Snow Bowl , you can ski, go snow tubing and ice skating or ride down the 400-foot toboggan chute. Each February, you can watch or participate in the U.S. National Toboggan Championships . Santa arrives by boat to celebrate Camden’s Christmas by the Sea, a time to enjoy shopping and festivities.

If you’re yearning to learn while on vacation, this area has you covered. Rockport is home to the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship , which provides courses in furniture making and related skills; the Maine Media Workshops , which holds classes in photography, writing and filmmaking; and Avena Botanicals , which offers herbal workshops and tours of their gardens. Salt Water Farm Cooking School in Lincolnville gives guests the opportunity to create local, seasonal fare.

In Rockport, Maine, you’ll feel ocean breezes and you can visit gorgeous parks. If you’re adventurous, plan to go hiking, sailing, bicycling, skiing, birdwatching and other outdoor activities. Rockport was home to Andre the Seal, who for 20 years came up from the Boston Aquarium to spend summers in Rockport Harbor as a welcome guest. His statue is now in Rockport Marine Park.

You can golf beside the ocean at the Samoset Resort Golf Club in Rockport. From the Samoset, you can also walk along the Rockland Breakwater to the lighthouse. At the 66-acre Merryspring Nature Center in Camden and Rockport, you can enjoy walking, birdwatching or cross-country skiing.

In Lincolnville, take part in tastings of grape and blueberry wines and tour the winery and vineyard at Cellardoor Winery , Maine's first winery. Lincolnville Beach is a popular spot to enjoy the sand and sea.

Where to Stay in Camden, Rockport and Lincolnville

The Samoset Resort is one of MidCoast Maine’s favorite year-round hotels. In Camden, Rockport and Lincolnville, you also have your choice of many fantastic inns and bed and breakfasts, including the Captain Swift Inn , Camden Maine Stay Inn , Victorian By the Sea , Lord Camden Inn and the Camden Riverhouse Hotel . Want a cozy cabin in the mountains? Check out Point Lookout Resort . Glenmoor By The Sea is popular with families looking for the perfect spot to relax and the Lincolnville Motel offers comfort with a vintage feel. There are too many great places to stay to name them all!

Restaurants in Camden, Rockport and Lincolnville

Looking for a place to eat in Camden? You’re in luck. The Hartstone Inn ’s restaurant is highly regarded for fine-dining, Peter Ott’s on the Water serves up seafood, classic comfort nibbles and burgers, and the Waterfront boast the best views in Camden on their harborside deck.

In Rockport, Nina June and 18 Central Oyster Bar overlook Rockport Harbor.

In Lincolnville, visit McLaughlin’s Lobster Shack for great seafood in unpretentious settings. The Lincolnville General Store offers delicious snacks and quick meals perfect for picnics.

Businesses & Organizations

MidCoast and Islands

Carol L. Douglas Studio

Plein air paintings, workshops and classes

Phone: 585-201-1558

Website: www.watch-me-paint.com

Address: 394 Commercial Street , Rockport

Moon Dog Excursions

Something Extraordinary! Custom Boat Charters and Island Excursions on Penobscot Bay. Experience the beauty of the Maine Coast.

Phone: 207-230-9069

Website: moondogexcursions.com

Address: 111 pascal ave , rockport

Schooner Heron

Sail Heron for day sails, custom charters and life events

Phone: 207-236-8605

Website: www.sailheron.com

Address: Rockport Marine Park, 111 Pascal Avenue , Rockport

Camden International Film Festival

CIFF is a four day long film festival in midcoast Maine

Phone: 207-593-6593

Website: camdenfilmfest.org

Address: PO Box 836 , Camden

Maine Media Workshops

Offering more than 200 workshops and master classes in film and photography

Phone: (207) 236-8581, 1-877-577-7700

Website: www.mainemedia.edu

Address: 70 Camden Street , Rockport

Bay Chamber Concerts and Music School

Year-round concert presenter and community music school

Phone: 207-236-2823

Website: www.baychamber.org

Address: 18 Central St. PO Box 599 , Rockport

36 hours in rockport & camden, maine’s 10 prettiest villages.

No results found.

Businesses and locations related to: Camden, Rockport & Lincolnville

Arts and Culture
Dining and Nightlife
Hiking and Climbing
Lighthouses and Sightseeing
On the Water
Parks and Natural Attractions
Spas, Health and Wellness
Sports and Recreation
Traveler Resources
Hostels and Boarding Houses
Hotels and Motels
Inns/Bed and Breakfasts
Sporting Camps and Wilderness Lodges

Select a category to see topic filter options.

DownEast and Acadia
Greater Portland and Casco Bay
Maine's Lakes and Mountains

Searching for " " Almost there...

Travelers from all U.S. states are able to travel to Maine without providing a negative COVID-19 test result or quarantining, unless otherwise determined by the Maine CDC. International travelers from approved countries will be subject to any federal requirements for travel.

Learn how our safe travel protocols are helping ensure everyone's visit is a safe one.

Share full article

Supported by

36 Hours in Camden and Rockport, Maine (and Environs)

On the central coast of Maine, visitors will find a beguiling nexus of arts, dining and outdoor activities.

By Melissa Coleman

If Maine’s much-debated slogan, “the way life should be,” were a place, the towns of Camden and Rockport and their surroundings might be it. On the Eastern Seaboard, where mountains meet ocean, the area has long attracted rusticators and “vacationlanders” who far outnumber residents in summer. These clapboard-and-brick towns sit two miles apart on schooner-spotted harbors next to rounded mountains and sparkling freshwater lakes. What more does a rural getaway need? In this case, it’s a vibrant community of year-round locals who’ve created a nexus of arts, dining and outdoor activities to rival some cities. The area’s charm lies in an authentic belief in family businesses, locally grown food and ingenuity against the odds. Not to mention, they made it through the winter, and summer is everyone’s reward.

36 Hours in Camden and Rockport, Maine

1) 3 p.m. beans and books.

The Owl & Turtle Bookshop Café in Camden is the place to dish or talk books and coffee with the owners, Craig and Maggie White, and their amiable staff. They’ll wax rhapsodic about the Coffee on the Porch beans, roasted at home by a local teacher and brewed here, or upcoming readings with local authors like the best-selling crime novelist Tess Gerritsen and the children’s book author and illustrator Chris Van Dusen. The former boat shop on Bay View has been renovated to include nooks with chairs and beanbags for relaxing with lattes and books. For those considering a move to the area, grab “Ditch the City and Go Country,” by the local writer-photographer-blogger Alissa Hessler.

2) 4 p.m. Lay of the land

The view from the top of Mount Battie inspired the words that launched Edna St. Vincent Millay’s career as a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet. “All I could see from where I stood was three long mountains and a wood; I turned and looked the other way, and saw three islands in a bay.” Accessed by a 1.4-mile trail and road, there’s a stone World War I commemorative tower at the top and a hawk’s eye perspective of Camden and the islands of Penobscot Bay. Also visible is Camden Snow Bowl, the community-owned ski mountain that hosts the U.S. National Toboggan Championships every February. Admission ($6) to Camden Hills State Park includes the network of hiking trails, a campground with hookups, plus picnic tables and grills near the rocky shore.

3) 6 p.m. Local and fresh

Portland may have been Bon Appétit’s 2018 Restaurant City of the Year, but Camden, Rockport and nearby Rockland have significant culinary cred of their own. As far back as 2000, the two-time James Beard Award-winner Melissa Kelly launched the garden-and-greenhouse-to-table formula at Primo , in a charming Victorian in Rockland. Following suit in Rockport, Nīna June restaurant , in a brick and wood-accented venue at historic Union Hall, offers the latest expression of classic Italian-Mediterranean cuisine by the chef and cookbook author, Sara Jenkins. From New York City’s Porsena to her native Maine, she brings her vast knowledge of Italian cuisine to the local-and-fresh theme, evidenced here in, among other dishes, a chive chitarra pasta with Maine crab and lemon butter ($25). Finish up with a nightcap and native oysters at 18 Central Oyster Bar & Grill next door. Both restaurants have coveted outdoor seating and harbor views.

4) 8 a.m. New spin on breakfast classics

Change doesn’t come easily in small towns, as Brian Beggarly, a former chef at Primo, found when he took over Boynton-McKay Food Co., a longstanding locals’ breakfast and lunch joint in downtown Camden’s historic apothecary. The key to success was merging old classics such as skillet eggs and “Wavos Rancheros” with racier tacos and to-die-for brisket hash with potatoes and greens ($9.50). Now old- and new-timers alike fight for the high-backed booths and even begrudgingly enjoy recent décor updates that include a restored 1947 Italian motorcycle on the wall.

5) 10 a.m. D.I.Y. cruise

As an alternative to a schooner, the sea kayak provides affordable and intimate access to the water on one’s own schedule and muscle. Harbor tours with Maine Sport Outfitters depart from the Camden waterfront three times daily, for a two-hour paddle around Curtis Island and the coastline ($45). Maine Sport also offers trips on the freshwater lakes and three- to four-day kayak camping excursions to Stonington and Muscongus Bay. Family-owned by Stuart and Marianne Smith since 1976, the flagship sporting goods store is in Rockport, with a satellite shop in downtown Camden. Kayaks, paddleboards, bikes and canoes are all available to rent by day, week or month from the Rockport location.

6) 12 p.m. Locavore lunch

Bangkok’s loss was Camden’s gain when Ravin Nakjaroen and Paula Palakawong opened Long Grain’s eclectic 30-seat restaurant in 2010. At the time, authentic, locavore Asian food was not quite a thing in lobster country. Now, thanks to the couple’s delightful dishes, i.e. Pad Kee Mao housemade wide rice noodles with local Thai basil, chile, garlic, kale and Heiwa tofu or pork belly ($17), Long Grain is a destination in and of itself. A bright new location has increased square footage to include an Asian market with Long Grain Magic Sauce and other staples, but seating remains limited to 38. Reservations are a must, and walk-ins have better luck at lunch. Check back for vegetarian counter service at the original location come autumn.

7) 2 p.m. California dreaming

A scenic byway that leads to a wine-tasting room in a 1790s timber frame barn? It’s not in Napa, but at Cellardoor Winery, where Bettina Doulton has created a bacchanalian playground for wine lovers and casual day-trippers alike at the 5.5-acre vineyard in Lincolnville, about six miles from Camden. The tasting room opens daily at 11 a.m. for samples of the four estate wines by the glass ($8) with cheese boards and complimentary winery tours. Events include pairing lunches on Sundays with local producers, and pop-up dinners with partnering chefs, food trucks and music. The standout is Vino Al Fresco ($175), an open-air dinner with Trillium Caterers, Aug. 15, at a 120-seat table on a platform in the middle of the vines.

8) 4 p.m. Summer cooking

Annemarie Ahearn of Salt Water Farm has been championing local ingredients and traditional methods at her cooking school since she left New York City for Lincolnville in 2009. Her classes and workshops at the antique post-and-beam barn and stone patio on Penobscot Bay inspire hundreds of attendees to bring new perspectives to the home kitchen. Summer courses include Modern Country Cooking ($185), a three-day French Regional Cuisine Workshop ($545) and the Cookbook Club Series ($185) dinner with special guest, Alison Roman (who writes about food for The New York Times), to sample recipes from her new book, “Nothing Fancy.” Classes sell out quickly, but check the email wait list for cancellations.

52 Places to Go in 2019

A starter kit for escaping into the world.

9) 5 p.m. Saturday night out

Camden’s village is exceptionally walkable, which lends itself to a relaxed or spirited evening on the town. The View, a new rooftop bar at 16 Bay View Hotel, is the place to start with a craft cocktail, small plate and open-air outlook on the bay. Rhumb Line, across the maze of sailboats and schooners at Lyman-Morse at Wayfarer marina, calls out for dinner beside the water. Bryan Romero, the chef, has elevated fish and chips ($17) to delicacy status, along with an exceptional haddock chowder. A full bar and the Something Fierce signature cocktail ($10) means it’s a hard spot to leave, but the walk back to town is rewarded by after-hour specials and a lively vibe at 40 Paper Italian Bistro & Bar in the historic Knox Mill, where friendly locals close out the night over flatbreads and half-price drinks.

10) 9 a.m. Local hangout

If a coffee shop gauges community, Rockport is thriving at Seafolk Coffee. Behind a sign-less blue door, the freshly renovated space with a pine-tree slab counter and tall windows is a word-of-mouth favorite and cozy hangout above the harbor. The owners, Jacob and Madrona Wienges, serve espresso and cortado from micro lot beans, as well as housemade pastries and Danish-inspired open-faced toasts on dense rye bread ($9-$12). A photo graph by the entrance sets the tone with an ocean scene and Isak Dinesen quote: “The cure for anything is salt water. Sweat, tears, or the sea.” For more photography, come back Monday to Saturday for the acclaimed Maine Media Gallery and Tim Whelan’s photographic book shop up the street.

11) 12 p.m. Maine-inspired art

Starting in the 1950s, Alex Katz, Lois Dodd, Neil Welliver and their gang of avant-garde artist friends, notable for their return to realist nature and figure paintings against the tide of Abstract Expressionism, migrated from New York City to Lincolnville’s Slab City Road every summer to make art and relax en plein-air. The Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland celebrates these artists this year with the Slab City Rendezvous exhibition and Maine in America award. Permanent collections include the curious assemblages of the sculptor Louise Nevelson, and a church in back houses the paintings of N.C., Andrew and Jamie Wyeth ($15 adult admission). Look into tours of the Olson House, the iconic Colonial on the hill in Andrew Wyeth’s “Christina’s World.”

12) 2 p.m. Contemporary cool

Designed by the architect Toshiko Mori, who summers on the nearby island of North Haven, the new Center for Maine Contemporary Art is worth a visit for the stunning glass and corrugated metal building alone. The art is pretty great, too. Since its founding in 1952 by the Maine Coast Artists collective, the center has shown works by the Maine-inspired artists Robert Indiana, Fairfield Porter, Louise Nevelson and Alex Katz. A block from the Farnsworth in Rockland, the new space opened in 2016. Summer shows include a Slab City Road veteran, Ann Craven, who brings her serial treatment of time to birds, flowers and the moon.

Airbnbs and Vrbos in the area include everything from a double occupancy R-Pod Camper on a farm and a private studio apartment overlooking an apple orchard, to a restored 1840s four-bedroom farmhouse with pick-your-own lettuce, tomatoes, herbs and blueberries in the garden; from $52 to $134 to $499.

As far as oceanside resorts go, Samoset Resort (220 Warrenton Street, Rockport) has the bases covered with 230 acres on a point across from Owls Head Lighthouse, plus 178 newly renovated rooms, indoor and outdoor heated pools, fitness club and spa with hot tubs and steam saunas, and an 18-hole golf course. Summer rates start at $379.

Despite a guest list boasting a king, president and Edna St. Vincent Millay, Whitehall (52 High Street, Camden) still manages to feel like a classic Maine summer home. Brightly updated in 2015, the rambling clapboard inn, a 10-minute walk from downtown, has 36 rooms and suites, farmer’s porch, bocce court and fire pit. Book direct for best rates, starting at $229 for a queen.

Follow NY Times Travel on Twitter , Instagram and Facebook . Get weekly updates from our Travel Dispatch newsletter, with tips on traveling smarter, destination coverage and photos from all over the world.

Have a weekend to explore a destination? We’ve got the perfect travel itinerary.

Colorado Springs: Colorado’s second-largest city, which brims with outdoor activities , is enticing visitors with a new museum and revamped hotels.

Minneapolis: Springtime is best for exploring this Midwestern city’s lakeside trails, robust arts scene and top-notch restaurants .

Maui: The beauty and hospitality of this Hawaiian island, still recovering from last year’s wildfires, remain as vibrant as ever .

Toronto: Savor the diversity of this lakefront city through its hidden bars, small-but-fascinating museums and vibrant restaurants .

Cape Town: Take a food and storytelling tour, cruise one of the world’s most beautiful coastal drives and see contemporary African art in this city with stunning views in every direction .

17 Top-Rated Things to Do in Camden, ME

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers and Lura Seavey Updated Mar 23, 2023

One of Maine's most scenic coastal villages , Camden spreads around a harbor filled with pleasure craft and the tall masts of windjammers. Behind the town, Mt. Battie rises in wooded slopes to a rockbound summit. Between the mountain and the sea are streets of elegant 19 th -century homes, and a photo-worthy downtown that's lined with classic brick mercantile buildings.

You can stroll along the harbor to find sailing cruises or kayak tours, or just to watch the tall ships and boat traffic; part of Maine's windjammer fleet is harbored here. The harbor and Penobscot Bay provide plenty of things to do, but they are not Camden's only attractions for tourists.

Shops and galleries provide hours of enjoyable browsing and shopping. Camden Hills State Park offers miles of hiking trails and a road to Mt. Battie's summit. You can admire the flowers at Merryspring Nature Center, and enjoy an ice-cream cone surrounded by the flowers on the Riverhouse Footbridge. In the winter, you can ski or ride a toboggan at Camden Snow Bowl.

You'll have no trouble planning your trip with this handy list of the best things to do in Camden, Maine.

1. Watch the Ships in Camden Harbor

2. climb or drive up mt. battie, 3. stroll through harbor park and the amphitheater, 4. explore camden hills state park, 5. admire the architecture in the high street historic district, 6. swim at megunticook lake, 7. take a sailing tour, 8. photograph curtis island light, 9. go gallery hopping on bay view street, 10. tour the harbor in a kayak, 11. admire the gardens at merryspring nature center, 12. megunticook falls, 13. ski or toboggan at camden snow bowl, 14. cross the riverhouse footbridge, 15. enjoy a show at the camden opera house, 16. swim at laite memorial beach, 17. visit the striped cows at aldermere farm, map of things to do in camden, me, camden, me - climate chart.

Of all the things to do in Camden, everybody's favorite is simply watching the boats come and go in the harbor. You'll find graceful windjammers with their swaying masts, as well as posh yachts, peppy little motorboats, fishing vessels, and the occasional kayak all sharing the scenic harbor.

Stroll along the docks or sit on a bench to watch the scene, or linger over a meal in one of the waterside restaurants as you enjoy the constant parade of colorful boats. For even closer views, step aboard one of them for a harbor cruise .

The classic wooden motor vessel, Lively Lady , cruises through the harbor and into beautiful Penobscot Bay to see lighthouses, rockbound islands, and beautiful views of Camden and Mt. Battie.

As you cruise the bay, you may also see porpoises, seals, osprey, and bald eagles.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Maine

Mt. Battie's rounded silhouette of forested slopes and rocky summit rises as a backdrop for Camden, which is picturesquely set between the mountain and the iconic harbor. It's no wonder the town has been the filming location for several movies.

For views of the "three islands in a bay" that inspired Edna St. Vincent Millay to write her poem, Renascence , climb or take your car to the top of Mt. Battie. Here, along with the views of Penobscot Bay and the inland mountains, you'll find the poet's words on a bronze plaque.

You'll also find a stone tower, which you can climb for an even more sweeping vista that, on clear days, reaches to Mt. Cadillac in Acadia National Park . There is a fee to drive up the Mt. Battie Road, and a day-use fee for climbing; the trail is a short, but steady climb with rocky sections, so wear hiking boots.

Address: 280 Belfast Road, Camden, Maine

Behind the Camden Public Library and overlooking the harbor, the Camden Amphitheater and Harbor Park combine to create an outdoor public space where locals and tourists can stroll, picnic, and enjoy the views. The two also hold a place in architecture's hall of fame, as a collaboration by two of the most important 20 th -century American landscape architects.

The outdoor amphitheater, constructed between 1928 and 1931, was one of the few public projects of landscape designer Fletcher Steele, and is considered the first public Modernist landscape, blending traditional Neoclassical elements with newer Art Deco design.

Preserving the grounds' native trees and adding only those trees and shrubs that grew within a five-mile radius, Steele used fieldstone for the tiers, with wrought-iron rails and elegant tripod light stands. The Amphitheater, now a National Historic Landmark , is used for concerts and events such as the Maine Outdoor Film Festival.

Working at the same time, across Atlantic Avenue, the famed Olmsted Brothers (designers of New York's Central Park) were creating the two-acre Harbor Park, with its meandering walkways and informal plantings. Benches invite visitors to stop and savor the harbor views. Camden Harbor Park is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

While Mt. Battie is the poster child for Camden Hills State Park, you'll find plenty more things to do in its 5,700 acres of wooded hills. Among its 30 miles of well-mapped hiking trails are gentle woodland rambles and the moderately difficult climb up Mt. Megunticook , the highest of the Camden Hills.

Perhaps Camden's top attraction for hikers is the mile-long trail to the top of Maiden's Cliff , an 800-foot sheer cliff with views overlooking Lake Megunticook. Scaling the cliff itself is a popular challenge for rock climbers. In the winter, the park's trails are open for cross-country skiing , snowshoeing , and snowmobiling .

Camden Hills State Park is one of the favorite places to go for campers, with 107 beautifully maintained campsites , some with hookups for RVs. The campground is open from April through early December, with rustic shelters available by reservation for winter camping.

Camden's High Street, which is also Route 1, begins at the end of Main Street opposite the Camden Public Library; this is where the district's National Register of Historic Places listing begins. The district continues as far as Marine Avenue, its route lined by well-preserved 19th-century homes.

The Camden Public Library was designed in 1928 by architects Parker Morse Hooper and Charles Greely Loring, and enhanced in 1996 with a more accessible entrance, hidden from the front and facing Harbor Park. As you stroll along the sidewalks that line the entire Main Street route, look for different examples of 19 th - and early 20 th -century architecture.

You'll see former farmhouses, a couple of hip-roofed bungalows, and several fine example of prosperous Victorian-era and earlier homes, some of them now gracious B&Bs. You'll also pass the long, white porches of Whitehall , where the young Edna St. Vincent Millay first read her poetry to hotel guests.

Continue a few steps past Marine Avenue to see the impressive Norumbega , with its gables and pointed turret. A former summer estate, it is now a luxury inn.

As you walk, look for period details on the finer homes, such as wide doorways with fan windows, carved corbels, columned porches, dormers, an intricate iron fence, and adjacent carriage houses.

Although Camden does have a beach on Casco Bay, most locals prefer taking their families to swim in the warmer waters at Barrett's Cove on Megunticook Lake. The park, only a few minutes from downtown Camden, sits under the 800-foot Maiden's Cliff and spreads along the shore with a sand beach and grassy park.

The beach has a roped swimming area with a gently sloping shore, and a float outside the ropes in deeper water. You can put in kayaks at the beach or go to the launch across the water, on Route 52.

Picnic tables and grills, a bathhouse with showers, and a playground for children make this a good place to go for families.

Among the world's top bays for sailing , Penobscot Bay is bordered by a rockbound shoreline capped with trees and speckled with islands. Some of the islands are just tiny rock lumps topped with spiky fir trees; others have lighthouses to warn ships of rocky hazards and aid in navigation; some are large enough to support entire island communities.

You have a choice of several sailing options that leave daily from Camden Harbor. Most of these are two-hour trips that sail around the nearby islands and past the picture-perfect Curtis Island Light, offering a relaxing change of views and a chance to see porpoises, eagles, seals, and other wildlife.

For a windjammer experience without signing on for a multi-day trip, sail on Appledore II , a traditional 86-foot wooden schooner, the largest in the fleet that regularly offers daily trips.

You can spend a whole day sailing on the classic wooden yacht Cimarron , skimming the waves to the beautiful island of North Haven. Sunset cruises are a lovely way to end a day of sightseeing in Camden.

Lighthouses are always a favorite subject for photographers, and Curtis Island Light poses irresistibly close to Camden's shore. The island is a public park, but you can only get here by private boat; most cruises from Camden Harbor sail close to the island for good views of the lighthouse.

Curtis Island Light is an active U.S. Coast Guard navigation aid, built in 1896 to replace the original 1835 structure, and is now solar powered. The lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

For the best land-based views of the lighthouse and island, follow Bay View Street from downtown Camden to its intersection with Beacon Street. A trail to the viewpoint is almost hidden in the trees to the left. The best time of day for photography is mid- or late afternoon, when the sun bathes the Camden side of the lighthouse.

This is a romantic spot for couples to enjoy an evening picnic in the summer.

Running alongside the harbor, Bay View Street is lined with shops and galleries filled with the works of Maine artists and craftspeople.

Page Gallery exhibits a wide variety of paintings, drawings, and sculptures by contemporary artists. Along with paintings, many representing Maine coastal scenes, are works in glass and other media.

While Page Gallery exhibits more traditional paintings, at Carver Hill Gallery , you can expect to find larger abstract, often quirky artworks by Maine and other artists, including international ones.

In addition to fine art, Topo Gallery carries stationery, notebooks, and prints by independent artists. Look here for beautifully designed note cards and postcards.

The window displays in the large brick storefront of Ironbound Gallery will surely draw you in. Along with fine art, Ironbound is filled with the works of talented craftspeople working in glass, metal, wood, silver, ceramic, stone, and other media. You'll also find small items, such as the beautifully crafted glass birds that make good gifts and souvenirs of your trip to Maine.

You could easily spend an afternoon browsing and shopping on Bay View, and if you need to sit down for a few minutes, stop at the cheery Owl & Turtle Bookshop Café .

To find more art and craft galleries in the area, pick up a copy of the free Maine Gallery & Studio Guide .

There's no better way to get up close and personal with the myriad of watercraft in Camden Harbor than by kayak. From the harbor, you can paddle around Curtis Island for close-up views of the lighthouse, and explore the islands of Penobscot Bay, the most scenic boating waters in Maine.

On a two-hour kayak tour , your guide will relate local history and bay ecology, pointing out wildlife as you paddle along the shore and islands. Kayaks, paddles, and safety equipment is provided.

Longer seven-hour trips with a guide can take you farther into the bay, to the beautiful and remote Muscle Ridge archipelago . In this group of rugged islands, you'll explore tidal lagoons and stop for lunch and a swim at a remote sandy beach. You are likely to see porpoises, harbor seals, bald eagles, osprey, and other wildlife as you paddle.

The 66 acres of gardens and woodlands at Merryspring Nature Center are a pleasant place to visit year-round, from the first flowering bulbs in spring to the Winter Color Garden. Bright red poppies and blue delphinium bloom in the perennial border in early summer, followed by the spectacular display in the Day Lily Garden.

You'll find a Rose Garden, a Hosta Garden, plantings especially for birds and bees, a breeding orchard for the rare American Chestnut, an herb garden, and one especially for children.

You can also walk the four miles of woodland trails , which include an Interpretive Trail.

Address: 30 Conway Road, Camden, Maine

Most of the waterfalls in Maine require a hike or a drive to more remote forest regions, but Megunticook Falls is right in the heart of Camden. In fact, you can sit on a bench in Harbor Park and enjoy watching the Megunticook River cascade over ragged rock ledges into the harbor.

For a more lofty view, you can eat breakfast or lunch over the falls, on the deck of the Marriner's Restaurant (yes, it is spelled that way). The restaurant and several downtown shops sit directly over the river, which flows from nearby Megunticook Lake.

Although the river flows in all seasons, the best time to see the falls is in the spring and early summer; after rainy weather; or in the winter, when the water builds up layer after layer of ice, completely covering the rocks.

The only ski mountain in the East where you get ocean views from the trails , Camden Snow Bowl is a friendly hometown ski area with enough challenge to keep experienced skiers interested. Skiers and boarders can choose from more than 20 runs rated from green to black, or from 45 acres of glades and more ungroomed terrain for experts.

Camden Snow Bowl is a good place to go for families, with budget-friendly rates, especially for children. Thrill-seekers will want to take a run on the 400-foot toboggan chute , a steep ice-covered track that hosts the annual U.S. National Toboggan Championships.

Address: 20 Barnestown Road, Camden, Maine

Spanning the Megunticook River between Mechanic Street and Tannery Lane is a flower-decked footbridge that's a magnet for tourists and locals. The river narrows here before flowing under Camden's Main Street and over the falls into the harbor, and the footbridge connects the luxury Riverhouse Inn to its additional buildings on Tannery Lane.

Throughout the spring, summer, and fall, the bridge becomes an exuberant garden, its railings and overhead arches almost hidden in flowers and vines. Petunias and nasturtiums drape from overhead and tumble down the sides to frame river views, while pots of bright flowers line its railings.

Among the flowers, you may find fruits and vegetable, too – ripening tomatoes, bunches of grapes, or big pumpkins in the fall.

Under this tunnel of greenery and blossoms, wooden chairs and benches provide a place to stop and enjoy the flowers and river below. Few people can resist stopping for a cone at the colorful little River Ducks Ice Cream stand at the start of the bridge.

The impressive brick Opera House on Elm Street was built in 1893, after a fire destroyed the previous one and much of this entire section of downtown Camden. The Opera House is the centerpiece of the Camden Great Fire Historic District , which includes those buildings constructed after the fire, when town ordinance required commercial buildings to be brick instead of wood.

The auditorium, which is on the top floor, reflects its Victorian origins even after several renovations, featuring curving balconies, loge boxes, and restored stenciling on the cornice and proscenium arch.

As Mid-Coast Maine's premier performance venue, the Opera House hosts a regular schedule of concerts, films, theater, dance, and other performances. It is one of the host venues of the Camden International Film Festival .

The entire Camden Great Fire Historic District, including the Opera House, is on the National Register of Historic Places .

Address: 29 Elm Street, Camden, Maine

Below a grassy knoll with picnic tables and a play area for children hides the small Laite Memorial Beach. The long crescent of sand-and-pebble beach will not rival the southern Maine beaches at Ogunquit and Old Orchard, but for a refreshing dip into the bay, it's handy to downtown and has lovely views of Camden and Mt. Battie.

The park above the beach is a good place for a picnic or for the children to have fun on the playground equipment.

Address: Bay View Street, Camden, Maine

The Maine Coast Heritage Trust's Aldermere Farm Preserve is a working farm raising Belted Galloway cattle, known to kids as Oreo Cookie Cows for the white stripe or belt around their midsection. You can often see them grazing or catching some afternoon shade under the trees as you pass the farm, just over the town line into Rockport.

Or you can visit the farm on scheduled tours or attend programs there, such as guided nature walks , nature photography, and sketching workshops , or moonlight cross-country ski tours in the winter. The preserve has several walking trails.

To get there from downtown Camden, follow Chestnut Street south; it becomes Russell Avenue at the Rockport town line.

Address: 20 Russell Ave, Rockport, Maine

More on Maine

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Maine (ME) » 15 Best Things to Do in Camden (Maine)

15 Best Things to Do in Camden (Maine)

The town of Camden sits on the scenic Maine coast and is known as a peaceful seaport. Its beautiful harbor that’s often filled with an array of pleasure and sailboats makes it one of the most picturesque locales in the area.

With just less than 5,000 residents, Camden is overrun with tourists during the warm spring and summer months, many of who come to partake in the festivals that are held in town and nearby Union and Rockport.

With so many natural and historic areas within an easy drive, finding things to do won’t be a problem.

Below are 15 things to do in and around Camden, Maine.

1. Christmas by the Sea

For visitors to Maine interested in a unique holiday experience, Camden’s Christmas by the Sea celebration takes place every year during the first week of December.

The festivities spill over into the nearby towns of Rockport and Lincolnville as well, and many local neighborhoods, communities, and businesses get into the Christmas spirit by decorating and organizing a wide variety of fun and free activities.

Maine winters can be especially harsh, but in many respects, December is a great time to visit. That’s especially so because the throngs of tourists that flock to New England during the summer months will be long gone.

2. U.S. National Toboggan Championships

With its rugged mountains, vast forests, and harsh winters, Maine is more like Alaska than it is most other U.S. states. The U.S. National Toboggan Champions is the perfect way for visitors to experience a truly unique slice of local culture.

The event is held over the first weekend of February annually and includes hundreds of teams, over 1,000 individual racers, and nearly 5,000 spectators from all over the country.

The Ragged Mountain Recreation Area just outside of town is the venue. In addition to the races, the event includes a variety of family-friendly activities that make it truly one of a kind.

3. North Atlantic Blues Festival

Maine has more than its fair share of events and festivals, and unlike many other parts of the country that hold the majority of their events during the warm spring and summer months, several of Maine’s take place during the winter.

One of New England’s most popular annual events is the North Atlantic Blues Festival; you’ll be pleased to discover that it takes place in July when the Maine weather is perfect for being outside.

The festival is held at Harbor Park in Rockland, which overlooks scenic Penobscot Bay, and is considered by many blues aficionados to be one of the country’s premier festivals of its kind.

4. Project Puffin Visitor Center

For those who aren’t familiar with puffins, they’re exotic looking seabirds sporting large, colorful beaks that live along the coast of New England.

For decades, their numbers dwindled, and in the early ’70s, a program was started by the Audubon Society to bolster their population to more natural levels.

The Project Puffin Visitor Center in Rockland is dedicated to educating visitors on the importance of local ecosystems, and animals like puffins that play crucial roles.

The center’s highlights include a variety of displays and exhibits, documentary films, and even a boat tour of the bird’s habitat along the rugged Maine coast.

5. Camden Harbor Arts & Crafts Show

Due largely to its rich history and stunning natural beauty, New England has been an inspiration to artists since it was founded more than two centuries ago.

Camden’s beautiful harbor area is the site of one of New England’s most popular arts and crafts shows; as luck would have it, it takes places two times per year.

The Camden Harbor Arts and Crafts Show happens in July and October, both of which are great times to visit.

The two-day event is free, sponsored by local chambers of commerce, and includes a variety of artists and artisans displaying their work in a scenic, open-air setting.

6. Barrett’s Cove Park

Conveniently located on Route 52 just outside of Camden town limits, Barrett’s Cove Park is known for its vertical granite rock formation called Maiden’s Cliff.

The park sits on the scenic shores of Megunticook Lake and sports a pristine beach that’s the perfect place to soak up a few rays, especially for those who need to get away from the brisk wind and salty air of the nearby ocean beaches.

Just a few miles from downtown Camden, the park features barbecue grills, a playground, restrooms, and even a boat ramp for those interested in doing some fishing. Plenty of free parking is available.

7. Maine Antiques Festival

For more than three decades, the Maine Antiques Festival has been a popular event for locals, tourists, and all-around antique enthusiasts.

Billed as Maine’s largest antique show, it takes place in August at the Union Fairgrounds, an easy drive from Camden.

Featuring more than 300 dealers, collectors, and vendors who come from far and wide, the items for sale include art, coins, furniture, housewares, glassware, and a variety of collectibles.

The event takes place on Saturday and Sunday, but for those ambitious shoppers who want to get the first crack at the treasures before the hordes arrive, it’s possible to get in Friday afternoon – but you’ll pay handsomely to do it.

8. Maine Lobster Festival

The humble lobster is one of the most iconic symbols of Maine. The clawed crustaceans call the cool Atlantic waters off New England’s coast home, and are a much sought after delicacy the world over.

The Maine Lobster Festival is one of the region’s premier events and takes place in August when the weather is perfect.

The event takes place over five days and includes lobster prepared in more delicious ways than you’d think possible.

The festival’s activities include cruises, pageants, live entertainment, and even arts and crafts.

Don’t worry if you’re not a seafood fan; there will be a variety of culinary choices.

9. Camden Windjammer Festival

Camden’s maritime culture dates back to the very beginning, when the area was first explored by those of European descent.

The Camden Windjammer Festival takes place over Labor Day weekend, when thousands of visitors swarm to the small town by the sea to take in the majestic sailing ships – dramatic throwbacks to an era when the wind and sea were the primary means of propulsion.

If possible, plan on attending the event’s kick-off – the arrival of the windjammers – which is a truly impressive spectacle.

The activities include a maritime fair, live music, dance, fireworks, lobster race, and cooking competitions.

10. Aldemere Farm

Aldemere Farm just down the road in nearby Rockport is one of the world’s most renowned breeders of Belted Galloway cattle.

Often referred to as Oreos due to their distinct black and white markings, they are primarily raised for beef.

The farm is comprised of more than 100 acres and is owned by a land conservation trust that’s dedicated to protecting and promoting the region’s culture, history, and rich farming tradition.

Aldemere is a working farm but it’s also an education center, so it’s a great place to spend a few morning or afternoon hours learning about cattle, conservation, and sustainable agriculture.

11. Center for Maine Contemporary Art

Comprised of works in a variety of mediums from hundreds of artists, the Center for Maine Contemporary Art in Rockland is run by a not-for-profit organization that’s focused on preserving and promoting Maine’s contemporary art scene.

The center was founded in 1952, and since, then has grown into one of New England’s most popular and well-respected facilities of its kind.

In addition to their exhibits, the center offers a wide variety of educational and instructional programs, many of which are aimed at promoting artistic expression for professionals and amateurs alike.

The best way to keep abreast of their programs and exhibits is to check their website periodically.

12. Coastal Children’s Museum

The Coastal Children’s Museum in Rockland is the perfect place to spend a few hours, especially for those traveling with young children.

The museum is a ten-minute drive from Camden and is full of interactive exhibits that engage, entertain, and educate children all at the same time.

Exhibits touch on history, science, animals, art, and the natural world. Many parents who’ve visited claimed that the museum far exceeded their expectations, and that even after a few hours their kids weren’t ready to leave.

During peak times in the summer months, the museum can be busy, so if you’d like to avoid the crowds, consider visiting during a weekday or when they first open in the morning.

13. Matthews Museum of Maine Heritage

Located in Union, the Matthews Museum of Maine Heritage is just a few miles from Camden and is comprised of thousands of artifacts relating to the cultural and economic history of Maine.

Its exhibits include an interesting and unique array of items that range from historic books and photos to weapons, clothes, and housewares used by early settlers in the area.

Adjacent to the main museum building is an old, one-room schoolhouse that surprisingly remained in use until the early ’50s.

There’s also an exhibit on one of the country’s first mass-marketed soft drinks called Moxie that was produced in the area.

14. Farnsworth Art Museum

The Farnsworth Art Museum in Rockland is most well-known for its extensive collection of paintings by various members of the world-famous Wyeth family.

It’s comprised of thousands of square feet of exhibits, most of which center on American artists from the last two centuries.

The museum grounds also include the Farnsworth House Homestead, a Victorian-era home that’s full of period art, furniture and housewares that give visitors a glimpse into rural life in centuries past.

The museum and Wyeth Center’s hours change seasonally, so check online before making a special trip.

15. Maine Lighthouse Museum

The rugged New England coastline is home to some of the country’s most iconic lighthouses. For lighthouse enthusiasts without sufficient time to visit them all, the Maine Lighthouse Museum deserves a top spot on your itinerary.

The museum contains the state’s most unique and complete collection of artifacts related to lighthouses, including lenses, beacons, buoys, and some impressive miniature ship models as well.

Much of the museum is dedicated to the history of the men and women of Maine’s search and rescue services, who’ve played such an important role in aiding the area’s citizens over the years.

15 Best Things to Do in Camden (Maine):

Christmas by the Sea
U.S. National Toboggan Championships
North Atlantic Blues Festival
Project Puffin Visitor Center
Camden Harbor Arts & Crafts Show
Barrett's Cove Park
Maine Antiques Festival
Maine Lobster Festival
Camden Windjammer Festival
Aldemere Farm
Center for Maine Contemporary Art
Coastal Children's Museum
Matthews Museum of Maine Heritage
Farnsworth Art Museum
Maine Lighthouse Museum

How to Do Coastal Maine in 7 Days: Charming Camden

Coastal Maine is an outdoor lovers paradise in the summer months. In an effort to get away from urban life and see a new part of the US that I had never experienced, I recently put together a road trip: “Coastal Maine in 7 Days.” This is the first post in a series where I will take you along for the trip. I’ll show you the itinerary I used so that you can replicate and experience everything that Maine has to offer. This first post starts with the flights into Portland and the first stop in the small and charming town of Camden, Maine. Stay tuned to this series as we will eventually make our way up the Maine coastline to Bar Harbor and Acadia National Par k before returning for a couple of days in Portland.

Post Contents

Day 1 – Arrival and Drive to Camden, Maine

Flight into portland, maine.

The best way to start the “Coastal Maine in 7 Days” trip is by flying into Maine’s largest city of Portland. Portland’s airport is the Portland International Jetport (PWM). It is a fairly small airport so flights in and out are somewhat limited; although, service has been growing in recent years. To allow the most time to explore along your first day’s drive, try to get an early arriving flight.

If flying into Portland does not work for you because of cost, connections, or schedule, Boston-Logan airport is a backup option. Boston is a much larger airport and would therefore have better connections and service. In addition, the prices may be cheaper in Boston based on where you are originating. If you do fly into Boston-Logan, an extra hour and a half of driving will be required to get to Portland (assuming you don’t arrive during a Boston rush hour).

Collect Bags and Pickup Rental Car

Coastal Maine is a collection of small towns along the waters edge. While there is some train service that heads south from Portland, there is almost no public transportation infrastructure. For this reason, a rental car is a necessity when exploring coastal Maine.

The major car rental agencies are located at Portland International Jetport (no shuttle to the rental cars is required). After collecting your baggage (if you checked bags), walk directly across the airport terminal road to the rental car center.

If you are able to obtain rental car elite status or sign up for executive/preferred status with the rental car agency, Portland is a city where this can be quite helpful. During the tourist season, long lines can form at the rental car center. Elite status or preferred status with your rental car agency can help you skip the line and get you on your journey that much faster.

Drive to Camden

The first overnight location along this itinerary is Camden, Maine. Camden is a short drive up the Maine coast. Most of this drive is along the famous Atlantic Coast Highway (US Highway 1). Over the Coastal Maine in 7 Days itinerary, you will become very familiar with the Atlantic Coast Highway. If your flight arrival time allows, I recommend that you stop along your journey to Camden.

The stop at Rockland Breakwater Light below assumes you land in Portland around noon (12 PM). If you arrive much later than 12 PM, you may have to eat on the road or be okay with getting into Camden later. If you are flying into Boston and don’t arrive prior to noon, Rockland Breakwater Light may not make the itinerary until the return drive due to the additional driving time required from Boston.

Rockland Breakwater Light

The Rockland Breakwater Light is a lighthouse located in Rockland, Maine. This lighthouse sits at the end of a long breakwater that protects the harbor of Rockland. The light isn’t your typical lighthouse shape. Instead, the lighthouse is essentially bolted onto the roof of a regular two-story house. The two-story house is the caretaking building which would normally be a separate building in traditional lighthouse setups. This makes for a less picturesque lighthouse photo, but it is unique in the set of Maine lighthouses that are on the Coastal Maine in 7 Days itinerary for that reason.

In addition to the unique structure, the lighthouse’s real claim to fame is the breakwater on which it sits. The lighthouse is located at the end of the Granite Breakwater of Rockland Harbor. To access the lighthouse, visitors walk the top of the approximately 0.8 mile-long breakwater. The breakwater is constructed of large blocks of granite that have been mostly smoothed on top. This breakwater creates a long walkway out into the middle of Rockland harbor. There are still gaps between the blocks that make up the breakwater so you have to watch your step as you go.

The Rockland Breakwater Light is such a unique walk that you won’t want to miss it. It is also free to walk the breakwater and climb the elevated platform outside the lighthouse. The platform provides some great views of the Rockland harbor, passing sailboats, the surrounding coastline, and the breakwater heading back to shore.

Be sure to bring layers of clothing. Since the lighthouse is 0.8 miles out into the bay, winds can be quite strong. This often means that temperatures at the lighthouse feel 10°F cooler than the shoreline. A final note of caution is that the breakwater can become covered by water at certain times. When the ocean is at high tide and there are waves or a swell, the breakwater risks being covered. Check the tide chart before you go to time your visit appropriately. The breakwater becomes covered at 11 feet of tide. Any tide below 11 feet will provide a clear route to the lighthouse.

Check In to Camden Accommodations

Camden, Maine is a small town of less than 2,000 permanent residents year-round. However, during the summer tourist season, the population of the town swells with tourists and seasonal workers. Don’t be deterred by that fact. Camden has many inns and bed & breakfasts so that the influx of summer vacationers is handled well.

Camden is a very walkable town. Parking downtown can also be difficult. A 2 hour limit on parking spots is strictly enforced. For these reasons booking a hotel, inn, or bed & breakfast near the downtown area will serve you well. In addition to the convenience, it is just a nice change of pace to be able to walk to explore the downtown area and walk to and from dinner in the evening. For all the places you consider, I would enter them into Google Maps and check the walking distance to downtown. I would feel comfortable booking anything that is less than 15 minutes walking. If you or your travel companions are mobility challenged, consider reducing the 15 minutes walking goal to 10 or 5 minutes.

Explore Downtown Camden and Dinner

As mentioned earlier, downtown Camden is very walkable. While the vast majority of shops and boutiques will have closed by the time you arrive in Camden the first night, dinner will be in full swing in the town. If you are traveling during the summer, you will see many people out and about for dinner and evening walks. Take this opportunity to learn the lay of the land in the town.

First, make your way to Main St. This short stretch of road (not more than 0.2 of a mile) houses most of the downtown shops, breweries, and boutiques. Next, get some great views of the harbor. These views can be found from the Harbor Park (near the Camden Public Library) or from the harbor walk near the docks off of Main St. When coupled, these two central locations will give you a great overview of Camden’s commercial center.

As you explore Camden, make your way towards a dinner location. Some great locations to try include:

https://www.waterfrontcamden.com/
https://www.nataliesrestaurant.com/menu/
https://www.peterotts.com/

Two notes on dinner in Camden to pass along. First, during the main tourist season, the influx of visitors can easily pack out the available restaurants. You may want to consider dinner reservations at some of the above if you want a particular dining time. Second, restaurants and other venues in Camden tend to close early. Almost all restaurants close by 9 PM. While this doesn’t mean that they will kick everyone out at nine, many restaurants do a last seating near 8:30 PM. In the summer when days are long and if you are trying to maximize what you can do in that time, take these closure times into account. As a heads up, 9 PM closings will be somewhat common throughout the whole Coastal Maine in 7 Days Itinerary.

Day 2 – Camden

The first full day in Maine is also unfortunately the only full day in Camden. As we make our way along coastal Maine in only 7 days, maximizing the use of our time will be essential. Today will hit some of the most well-known aspects of Camden: Camden Hills State Park, downtown Camden, and Penobscot Bay.

Hike Mt. Battie

Perhaps the most well-known attraction in Camden is Camden Hills State Park and its tallest peak, Mt. Battie. Mt. Battie is located immediately next to downtown Camden making it a perfect way to start the morning. After grabbing breakfast and donning your hiking gear, the Mt. Battie Trailhead is a short 0.5-mile walk from downtown Camden. As a warning, the walk to the trailhead is uphill through a neighborhood. If you want to cut this portion of the hike out, there is a small parking lot at the trailhead.

This hike is difficult and uphill. The total distance is only 0.8 miles from trailhead to the peak of Mt. Battie; however, the incline is what makes it difficult. Make sure you are prepared and bring plenty of water with you. If you are an active person, it will be difficult. However, it is rewarding once you get to the top.

The top of the mountain provides amazing wide views of Penobscot Bay and the town of Camden. You are able to see so much of the surrounding area below you during the hike up, and the view only improves the higher you climb. Waiting at the top of Mt. Battie is Mt. Battie Tower. This tower is a cute way to get another view of the bay and Camden from the top. In addition, it makes for great pictures once you reach the top.

The hike down is steep in some places, but it is much easier that the hike up.

If you are able to do the hike, I highly encourage it. Climbing to the top is very rewarding and provides a warmup for some of the hiking later on in the trip in Acadia National Park. However, if you can’t do the hike, there is a road to the top of Mt. Battie to allow you to see the same panoramic views of the bay and the town of Camden. Entrance to the state park via a vehicle costs $6/person or $2/senior (age 65 and older).

Bike Camden

The state of Maine is truly an outdoorsman or outdoorswoman’s paradise. The generally pleasant weather in the summer combined with great natural beauty is what creates this paradise. In order to spend as much time in the outdoors as possible, I recommend a bike ride through Camden to fill your afternoon. A couple of different companies rent bikes for the day. While most bike rentals will be for the entire day, I recommend making this a half-day activity in order to have time for other activities.

The easiest place to rent from is Maine Sport Outfitters. They have two locations. The main location is located about 1.5 miles from downtown Camden. They also have a downtown Camden location, but it is much smaller. Most of their rental equipment is located at their main location, but they will deliver to downtown if you reserve and request that ahead of time.

At the time of writing, standard bikes were renting for $40/day/bike. As a word of warning, Camden is a hilly town. Biking up and down the hills (while beautiful) can be difficult if you aren’t a regular biker. For those who aren’t regular bikers, Maine Sport Outfitters also rents a small number of E-bikes (battery-powered pedal assist bikes) for $79/day/bike.

Camden City Park & Laite Memorial Beach

While most of your bike ride will be spent exploring some of the areas of Camden outside downtown, there are a few places that you should make a stop on your bike journey. First is Camden City Park and Laite Memorial Beach. Laite Beach is popular with locals and tourists alike as a place to come and soak up the sun. While you don’t have to lounge in the sun, it’s a fun opportunity to see a local Maine beach. You also get some good views of the Camden harbor from outside the downtown area.

Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe

If you like candy, sweets, or chocolate, this is a stop for you. Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe offers a huge selection of candies. These include mass-market favorites like gummy bears, jellybeans, and candy bars. However, the candy shop also includes many sweets made in-house like saltwater taffy, fudge, brittle, and caramels. It’s a truly fun experience for adults and children alike to browse the wide selection available and pick up a couple of items to try.

The Smoothie Shack

The Smoothie Shack is a great place to be able to take a break after you have been biking for a while. This roadside food truck just outside downtown on Elm Street is known for the smoothies, but they also serve wraps and salads. In addition to classical fruit smoothies, they also carry “superfood smoothies” that include ingredients like carrot, kale, protein, and chia seeds. Be aware that they only accept cash as payment so make sure that you have cash available.

Schooner Sailing Expedition

No trip to Camden (or Maine in general for that matter) would be complete without a sailing excursion. The opportunity to see the Maine coastline from the oceans is a completely different perspective that is not to be missed. While there are several sailing excursions offered in Camden, my recommendation from research and experience is the Schooner Surprise.

The Schooner Surprise has a maximum capacity of 15 guests, but often there are many fewer guests on the boat making for a more intimate sail. During the sail, you will have front row seats to the captain and first mate hoisting the sails and steering the ship. Depending on your cruise, you may get lucky and have an opportunity to assist.

The sail takes you around a couple of the nearby lighthouses for which Maine is famous. Also included in the schooner trip is a cruise through the middle of Penobscot Bay and a close sail around a few of the many islands in the area.

I recommend an early evening cruise due to the picturesque scenery on the water at that time of day. It is also a great way to relax and wrap up your day prior to dinner in downtown. The Schooner Surprise will also allow you to bring your own snacks and beverages on board to enjoy during the sail.

As with the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse earlier in this itinerary, makes sure to bring some extra layers of clothing. Once out on the water, the wind will pick up making it feel many degrees colder than it is in Camden. The schooner does have some blankets available for those that are cold. Try to dress appropriately though as there aren’t enough blankets to go around if everyone on the schooner wants one.

Dinner and Day Two Wrap Up

Once you depart the Schooner Surprise, you will be in the harbor in downtown Camden. I recommend almost immediately going to dinner as many places will be doing final seatings within the hour. Enjoy the remainder of your evening with a laid-back dinner and stroll back to your accommodations.

Hopefully, you have enjoyed this overview of the first two days of the “Coastal Maine in 7 Days” road trip. If you have any questions, please leave them below.

Stay tuned – the next three days of the road trip including Bar Harbor are coming up soon!

Share this post:

Addison Osborn

Pingback: Great Historic Whitehall Inn - Camden, Maine - The Vacation Wingman

Pingback: How to Do Coastal Maine in 7 Days: Two Day Portland Itinerary

Pingback: How to Do Coastal Maine in 7 Days: Bar Harbor and Acadia National Park

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Camden Maine

Our travel recommendations are based on personal experiences and research.

There are plenty of things to do in Camden ME. This picturesque harbor town combines natural scenery, art, outdoor recreation, shopping, and restaurants in one small community.

A view of downtown Camden, Maine from Mount Battie in the autumn

A visit to Midcoast Maine wouldn’t be complete without a stop in Camden. This town embodies this region’s quaintness, beauty, ruggedness, and scenery.

Nestled alongside Penobscot Bay, there are plenty of things to do in Camden ME. Downtown Camden is a lively scene of shops, restaurants, and art galleries – the buildings reminiscent of days gone by. And the harbor, steps from Main Street, is bustling in the summertime with schooners, impressive yachts, and lobster boats.

While downtown Camden is where you’ll find the most activity and visitors, venturing into the wilderness and spending time on the sea gives a different perspective of this area and is well worth the effort if you have the time.

Visitors can take in much of Camden in a single day. But spending a few days here while also visiting nearby Rockport and Rockland gives a true sense of what this region offers. You’ll find a surprising number of things to do in such a small, rural town and many excellent restaurants to choose from.

Top 10 things to do in Camden ME

When visiting, these are the best and most fun things to do in Camden ME.

Hike or drive up Mount Battie

Mount Battie. One of the many things to do in Camden ME

One of the most popular things to do in Camden ME is to hike or drive to the top of Mount Battie.

The view of the town and harbor from this summit is spectacular. All of Penobscot Bay will be before you, and if the weather is clear, you can see as far as Mount Desert Island to the north and Matinicus Island to the south.

Drivers can access the summit by driving north on Route One (the same road as Main Street) and turning left into Camden Hills State Park . There’s a fee of $4 per Maine resident and $6 per non-resident to drive to the top.

Once at the top, you’ll find plenty of parking. Note that the road may be closed between November 1st and May 1st due to poor weather or staffing.

There’s also a pleasant but slightly challenging hike up Mount Battie that slowly reveals the view as you ascend closer to the summit.

Hikers can access the trail by turning down Mountain Street (Route 52) from Main Street and then taking a right on Spring Street. In the middle of Spring Street is a small road on the left leading up to the Mt. Battie trailhead, including parking spaces.

See related: Mount Battie: What You Need to Know Before Visiting

Stroll through Camden’s downtown and harbor

Camden’s downtown, including most of its shops, restaurants, and art galleries, sits right on the edge of the town’s harbor and is worth a stop in the area. Wandering through these streets is among the best things to do in Camden ME.

The center of this picturesque village is at the intersection of Main, Mechanic, and Bay View Streets. On the corner of Mechanic and Main, you’ll find French and Brawn , the town’s small, nostalgic grocery store.

You’ll also encounter a plethora of art galleries in the village featuring the work of local artists and other stores filled with home decor, antiques, and the typical tourist fare.

After checking out the shops, stroll down to the boardwalk to get an up-close view of the harbor’s many schooners and impressive yachts.

At lunchtime, order a sandwich at the Camden Deli and take advantage of its view of the harbor. When you’re finished eating, continue up Main Street to Camden’s public library and enjoy the view of the harbor and village below.

Take in Camden’s arts scene

Camden ME has a long history of being a destination for artists.

Every July and October, the town hosts a juried arts and crafts show where over a hundred artists and crafts professionals display and sell their work along Atlantic Avenue. During the rest of the year, visitors can stop at one of Camden’s many galleries, such as Camden Falls and Small Wonder , down by the harbor or Carver Hill on adjacent Bay View Street.

Camden’s Opera House also features a variety of live performances, musical gigs, and other events throughout the year, including Jazz in June and The Camden Shakespeare Festival in the summer.

Take a ride on a schooner

A schooner in the harbor. Taking a schooner ride is one of the things to do in Camden ME

Among the fun things to do in Camden ME is to ride on one of the many schooners that dock in the harbor.

During warm weather months (Memorial Day through mid-October), schooners take passengers into Penobscot Bay to experience the surrounding islands, see lighthouses, spot seals, and take in Maine’s rocky shoreline. Most trips last approximately two hours.

Visitors can find information about schooner rides as they walk along the harbor’s boardwalk. Here, crew set up tables advertising their tours and selling tickets. Booking tickets online for rides on Schooner Surprise and The Olad is also possible.

For a bigger adventure, look into multi-day sails through wind-jammer cruises . Passengers spend nights onboard in bunks and can help with shipboard activities while sailing along the rocky Maine coast.

See related: 10 New England Small Towns That Feel Like Stars Hollow

Visit the Camden Snow Bowl

Nestled on Ragged Mountain is Camden’s own ski slope, the only place in North America where one can glimpse the ocean while skiing down a mountain.

While the Snow Bowl is modest in size and far from fancy, it’s an excellent mountain for beginners, young kids, and anyone looking for a relatively inexpensive ski without the crowds or hassle found at other slopes.

If you’re in Camden in February, check to see if the U.S. National Toboggan Championships are taking place at the Snow Bowl, as they do every year. Cross-country skiers can also glide along the Kuller Trail when there’s snow.

During warm weather months, visitors to the Snow Bowl can hike along Ragged Mountain’s hiking trails , 1-2 miles long, up to the summit for excellent views. And bikers can descend down one of the many mountain bike trails maintained by a local mountain bike club. Visitors can also view fall foliage against the setting of Penobscot Bay by riding the Snow Bowl’s chairlifts on Sundays in October. ( 20 Barnestown Road )

Follow us on our latest New England Adventure

Join our mailing list

Stop in at The Owl and Turtle Bookshop and Cafe

Since 1970, the Owl and Turtle bookshop has been in Camden – albeit in different locales throughout the town.

In addition to its wide variety of carefully selected books and a well-thought-out children’s section, you’ll also find a cafe featuring a variety of espresso drinks, teas, and cold drinks.

Events at the bookshop can also be a treat with local authors stopping in. ( 33 Bayview Street )

Visit Megunticook Lake

Among the outdoorsy things to do in Camden ME is a visit to Megunticook Lake.

Splattered across Megunticook Lake’s surface are dozens of islands and inlets, making it an interesting place to kayak or canoe. Visitors can also swim at the Barrett’s Cove public beach in a small cove with a relatively long expanse of shallow water.

The lake starts about a five-mile drive from the center of town, down Route 52. From there, you’ll see several areas to turn off and park, including parking for Barrett’s Cove beach.

Just across Route 52 is a mile-long, slightly rocky woodland path leading up Maiden Cliff with great views of the lake below. Adventurous hikers can continue for another .8 miles up the Scenic Trail and see views of Ragged and Bald Mountains and the lake.

See Curtis Island Lighthouse

Curtis Island lighthouse. One of the many things to do in Camden ME

Sitting on a small island just off Camden Harbor is Curtis Island Lighthouse. Compared to those seen further south down the coast, this tiny lighthouse is picture perfect – set on the edge of a rocky coast with its red roof contrasting against the blue water of Penobscot Bay.

Visitors aren’t allowed on Curtis Island, and getting a good glimpse of it is challenging except by boat. But locals know that down Bay View Street, across from its intersection with Beacon Ave, is a small path known as the Curtis Lighthouse Overlook that leads to the coast and provides the perfect vantage point of the lighthouse. Walking to the path is possible from downtown or nearby Laite Memorial Beach.

See related: Curtis Island Lighthouse: Everything You Need to Know Before Visting

Eat dinner at Long Grain Restaurant

It may initially seem strange to include a Thai restaurant on a list of things to do in Camden ME. But Long Grain isn’t any ordinary restaurant, especially for this rural setting.

Started in 2010 by husband and wife team Ravin Nakjaroen and Paula Palakawong, nearly overnight, Long Grain made a name for itself, capturing the attention of The New York Times, Bon Appetit, Saveur, and more.

Dishes are described as Asian home-cooked street food using seasonal and local produce. Plan in advance if you want to eat here during tourist season – even in the off-season, tables can go quickly, and takeout can also be a wait, so put your order in early. ( 20 Washington Street )

Visit Merryspring Nature Center

Among the fun things to do in Camden ME is to visit the 66-acre Merryspring Nature Center .

This center is only a six-minute drive from downtown and is the perfect place to take a break from tourist crowds and spend time in nature.

Visitors will find perennial and rose gardens and gardens of hostas, daylilies, and herbs. Walk through the center’s many trails, explore its arboretum, see its vernal pool, and look at its rare American chestnut planting. Admission is free, but donations are welcome. ( 30 Conway Road )

Visit other towns nearby:

Top 14 Best Things to Do in Rockland Maine

Top 10 Best Things to Do in Rockport Maine

The ULTIMATE Guide to Monhegan Island + 9 Things to Do

Is camden maine worth visiting.

Camden, Maine has been a popular vacation destination for generations.

Much of what visitors witness in Camden today is rooted in the 19th century when some of the nation’s most wealthy and distinguished families would gather here in the summer. The shingle-style homes these families built, known as cottages, still line High Street and Bay View Street near the town center and further from the downtown on Beauchamp Point.

While Camden is most certainly a tourist destination, it also has a well-established year-round community, which adds life and character to the community. Camden’s citizens take great interest in education, the arts, and nature. The town has been the home to historian David McCollough, author Richard Russo, and former Apple CEO John Scully, as well as many other influential people who continue to influence the life and culture of this small town.

( As a GetYourGuide affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. )

About Kerry Flatley

Kerry Flatley has lived in New England for the past 26 years. She has roots in Maine & Massachusetts, family in New Hampshire, and grew up close to the Connecticut border. She loves all that this region has to offer – the ocean, mountains, islands, history, villages, and cities. When she’s not writing about New England, she’s relaxing at home in the Boston suburbs with her two teenage daughters and husband.

Rockport & Camden | Two Miles of Coastal Beauty

The walk that binds together two of New England’s most beautiful villages — Rockport and Camden — is one of the prettiest in New England.

By Virginia Campbell

Mar 07 2022

Rockport Harbor

Maine has one of the world’s most dramatic coastlines, especially when the wind is high and towering waves thunder against the craggy shore. But it’s a quieter stretch of coast that offers—in many eyes—the prettiest walk in New England.

It’s not a long walk—about two miles or so—but it has great variety. The walk binds together two of New England’s most beautiful villages, Rockport and Camden. As one kind of loveliness slowly changes into another, the walk progresses the way a story does, from beginning to middle to end.

Russell Avenue begins a few steps from a statue of Rockport’s most famous citizen, a clever, beloved harbor seal named Andre , who was rescued as a pup by Harry Goodridge and tamed. Andre spent winters at the New England Aquarium, but each spring Andre was let loose in Boston Harbor and made a beeline up the coast to return to Harry in Rockport.

Plan Your Perfect Summer Adventure: Get The Free Ultimate New England Summer Guide!

As Russell Avenue curves past village shops and homes, the ocean view gives way to more intimate sights—flower boxes and gardens behind white cottage fences. Gradually the avenue moves away from the village proper, and wildflowers take over where gardens cease—lupine in early summer, and later, daylilies and asters growing at will along the roadside.

On the ocean side, framed by maples and oaks, is Megunticook Golf Club , a venerable institution whose gorgeous seaside golf course was a linchpin in the area’s transformation into a summer destination in the early 20th century. But the more immediate drama happens over to the left of the road as the fields of Aldermere Farm and its herd of Belted Galloway cattle open up and extend for half a mile toward Camden.

The pasture of Aldermere Farm ends in the Lily Pond woods, where Rockport changes with no visible notice into Camden, and Russell Avenue becomes Chestnut Street. As it begins to descend into Camden, billowing, leafy chestnuts border it, interspersed with maple and beech and ash. Behind these trees is a parade of houses for which the word “pretty” is both perfect and inadequate. Some are shingle, some are brick, and many are clapboard. All are variations on a discernable set of clean, even austere, architectural principles that have made for a surprising depth of personal expression. The collective effect, as Chestnut Street sweeps down toward Camden, is a drama of such bright color that it seems designed to sustain all souls who live through Maine winters.

Off to the right along Chestnut, streets drop almost precipitously down toward Bayview Street and Camden Harbor. The closer to town Chestnut draws, the shorter these streets get, until the harbor can be spotted. By this time, a round tower is in view high atop 780-foot Mount Battie , which protects the harbor from northwest winds and gives the land a distinctive shape that can be recognized far out at sea. There are places on Chestnut where you can look over and spot windjammers sailing out toward Curtis Island, each with a history longer than anyone on deck or on shore can remember.

Chestnut Street dead-ends at Elm Street next to Camden’s village green. Camden is a whole set of stories itself, with its shaded streets that span out to the north toward Belfast and to the west to Lake Megunticook . A few steps down past the busy shops of Elm Street, Commercial Street leads to the wharf. There, people just sit and gaze out to where boat sails disappear into Penobscot Bay, follow cloud shadows across the slopes of Mount Battie, and feed ducks at the waterfall where the Megunticook River flows into the harbor. If one or two of these idlers decide to head up Chestnut Street toward Rockport, they’ll find themselves once again on what seems, even in reverse, like the most beautiful walk in New England.

Have you ever strolled the path between Rockport and Camden, Maine?

This post was first published in 2016 and has been updated.

SEE MORE: Rockport, Maine | A Charming Historic Harbor Town 10 Prettiest Coastal Towns in New England Camden, Maine | Hotels & Inns Guide

Virginia Campbell

Skip to primary navigation
Skip to main content
Skip to primary sidebar
Skip to footer

TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

How To Spend A Beautiful Weekend In Quaint Camden, Maine

Destinations
Types of Travel
United States
Weekend Getaway

Camden embodies Maine’s “Vacationland” reputation with its laid-back, kick-your-feet-up style, inviting you to enjoy the natural beauty of its rugged coastline.

The quaint seaside town of Camden is situated on Penobscot Bay. With ocean views, scenic drives, outdoor adventure, and a welcoming community, Camden is the quintessential New England coastal small town. It is also a lovely place to enjoy a weekend getaway.

Best Things To Do In Camden

Camden is nature’s playground. At your fingertips are numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, sailing, fishing, and swimming.

Here are some of our favorite things to do in the area.

1. Sail Penobscot Bay

Schooner surprise.

Uncork your bottle and pour a glass while you sit back and let your captain navigate Penobscot Bay — it’s the perfect way to spend a sunny afternoon in Camden.

If you don’t have your own yacht, book a 2-hour tour on the 45-foot Schooner Surprise . You will find yourself whisked away from the mainland with a gentle wind guiding the boat over the bay waters. Relax as the crew unfurls the jib and hoists the mainsail. Your captain will regale you with stories of Camden history, intermittently stopping to point out local wildlife. You will find your mind drifting with the wave swells.

Maine Windjammer Cruises

Another highly recommended sailing adventure is with Maine Windjammer Cruises . Sail away without a care in the world and explore coastal Maine from your unique perch on the side of a beautiful ship.

Don’t forget to snap a photo of Camden’s charming Curtis Island Lighthouse at the entrance of Camden Harbor.

Mount Megunticook at Camden Hills State Park

2. Camden Hills State Park

Camden Hills State Park is an outdoor oasis for the nature enthusiast. For a nominal parking fee, you can enjoy everything the park offers. The park has picnic sites, hiking trails, and campsites, but the star is Mount Battie with its spectacular summit views.

Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park, Maine.

3. Mount Battie

The trek to the top of the 780-foot Mount Battie is a mile-long out-and-back hike. Rated as moderate, the hike is a well-traveled path requiring some scrambling. If that’s not your thing, you can easily take the quick drive up the auto road. The expansive views of Penobscot Bay and Camden Harbor from the summit are gorgeous. On a clear day, you can see as far as Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park.

A longer trail for the hardy hiker is Mount Megunticook, Maiden Cliff, and Mount Battie Loop . Rated as hard by AllTrails, the 8.6-mile loop trail offers pretty overlooks and will get your heart pumping.

If you are looking for the perfect picnic spot, the top of Mount Battie is top-notch. You will often encounter locals lounging on camp chairs next to matching folding tables enjoying a picnic lunch. It is one of the best places for an alfresco meal in town.

Spend some time wandering around the summit and scouting out the best place for your selfie, and then climb Mount Battie Tower. A World War I memorial, the 26-foot-tall stone tower provides the most spectacular panoramic views.

4. Laite Memorial Beach

Laite Memorial Beach is a family-friendly beach located in the center of Camden. The pebbly shoreline is a fun place for exploration. Situated next to a grassy park that has a playground, outdoor grills, and picnic tables, the beach offers all the traditional day-at-the-beach comforts. Laite Memorial Beach is a local favorite, and one of the best ways to experience an area is to act like a local. When in Camden…

5. Barrett’s Cove At Megunticook Lake

Barrett’s Cove at Megunticook Lake is a sandy beach with lake swimming, uncrowded shores, and spectacular views of the Camden Hills. Bring your lunch and enjoy the public outdoor grills and picnic tables while feasting your eyes on Mother Nature’s boundless beauty. Barrett’s Cove has a public boat ramp for the water enthusiasts in your party. It also has rock-climbing facilities where you can tackle the looming Barrett’s Cove Cliff .

6. Megunticook Lake

Megunticook Lake is a pristine, spring-fed mountain lake by the bay. The lake community is a perfect retreat for the outdoor adventurer and the quiet nature lover. Glide your kayak around the still morning lake, try your hand at trout or bass fishing, or take a leisurely hike around the lake.

Ducktrap Kayak and SUP will deliver kayaks and stand-up paddleboard rentals to your cabin at Megunticook Lake. Relax, take your time, and explore the lake. The rhythmic paddling paired with the beautiful vistas is Mother Nature’s spa treatment.

Browns Head Lighthouse in Vinalhaven, Maine.

7. The Fox Islands

Vinalhaven and North Haven, collectively known as the Fox Islands, make a wonderful place for a day trip. The 1.25-hour Vinalhaven Ferry ride is an adventure on its own. You’ll sail out of Rockland Harbor, past Owl’s Head, and across Penobscot Bay.

The islands offer wonderful hiking trails, inlets for kayaking, quarry pond swimming holes, and nature preserves for your outdoor enjoyment.

8. Camden Harbor Park And Amphitheatre

You will love strolling through Camden Harbor Park and the adjacent amphitheatre. The Camden Public Library oversees the two spaces. It is a beautiful spot to sit and enjoy the sailboats while taking a break from sightseeing.

9. Camden Snow Bowl

The Camden Snow Bowl is a small ski resort that offers big ocean views. The unique experience of standing at the top of a run and looking down at Penobscot Bay is a mind-boggling mix of winter and summer.

The United States National Toboggan Championships take place here every February. More than 400 teams hop on their toboggans and brave the ice-covered wooden chute. Reaching speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, they joyfully experience the need for speed on their toboggan runs. These brave racers will have your heart pumping with excitement as they whiz by on their freefall trip down the mountain.

With year-round accessibility, the Camden Snow Bowl is a fun place to hike, mountain bike, or kayak on Hosmer Pond.

10. Shopping In Camden

The downtown harbor area is home to unique, independently owned shops offering everything from touristy souvenirs to quality wines.

For a Maine memento, visit The Smiling Cow , where the goods are covered with lobsters, moose, and all things Maine.

French & Brawn is the place to shop for quality groceries and picnic provisions, whether you are heading out on a sail or dining at the top of Mount Battie.

Best Restaurants In Camden

The catch of the day is music to any seafood lover’s ears. Camden centers on the harbor, where an eclectic mix of lobster boats, deep-sea fishing vessels, schooners, and private yachts gently bob on their moorings.

Here are some of the best places to taste that fresh seafood.

McLoon’s Lobster Shack

Reclining in a pair of Adirondack chairs overlooking an old wharf harboring lobstering boats while munching on a classic lobster roll is quintessentially Maine fine dining.

McLoon’s Lobster Shack is located on Spruce Head Island. The drive to McLoon’s from Camden is about 30 minutes, taking you through winding coastal back roads. When you think you are truly lost, the parking lot finally appears in front of you. Your adventure will be rewarded with one of the best lobster rolls you have ever eaten. McLoon’s offers delicious classic seafood, but the hot buttered lobster roll is, by far, the most popular item on the menu.

Perched on the edge of Camden Harbor, Waterfront offers guests traditional coastal seafood on a wooden porch with spectacular harbor views. Dine on classics like lobster stew, Atlantic haddock fish and chips, and local whole-belly fried clams. The view and the cuisine are so classically Maine that you will want to come back again and again.

Sea Dog Brewing Co.

Stop in at Sea Dog Brewing Co. , a Main Street staple, for a craft beer or a sample flight to pair with their classic American pub fare. Enjoying the fried pickle chips, the classic Reuben, and a quality draft is the perfect way to end a day spent discovering Camden.

Best Hotels In Camden

Camden offers a multitude of charming inns that specialize in making their guests feel right at home. Camping and lakefront rentals round out the cozy accommodation options for your weekend getaway.

Camden Maine Stay Inn

Situated on the outskirts of the busy harbor, Camden Maine Stay Inn , a charming bed and breakfast, is the perfect blend of casual luxury and art gallery. Innkeepers Peter and Janis Kesser are committed to making your weekend getaway special. The charmingly decorated guest rooms, the serene outdoor oasis, and the cozy common rooms decorated with an eclectic collection of art will win you over. Their long list of adoring guests return year after year for the warm hospitality and scrumptious breakfast.

Located on High Street, close to downtown Camden and nestled in with other graceful old Victorian homes, the Camden Main Stay Inn is the perfect spot for a weekend getaway.

The Steeples

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Steeples is a converted church that offers views of Camden Harbor, is within walking distance of the downtown restaurants and shops, and is run by James, a highly rated Airbnb Superhost. The serenely decorated interior allows the preserved architecture of the church to shine through. Warm woodwork, sun-soaked stained glass windows, and lofty ceilings make The Steeples a truly special place to stay on your weekend getaway.

Lord Camden Inn

Another beautiful 19th-century stay is the Lord Camden Inn . It is the perfect spot if you are visiting the Camden Opera House for a performance, shopping downtown, or exploring the Merryspring Nature Center.

Your Weekend Getaway In Camden, Maine

Camden is a wonderful place to spend a weekend getaway. It is so relaxing, and there are so many wonderful things to do, that you might want to consider making it a long weekend getaway.

Other wonderful Maine coastal towns like Belfast , Portland , and Lincolnville make perfect stops along a mid-coast Maine road trip when you are in the Camden area.

If you love coastal road trips, try this one from Boston to Rockport, Massachusetts .

23 Best & Fun Things to Do in Camden (Maine)

In Knox County, Maine, lies the beautiful seaside town, Camden. The town had a population of 5,232 in 2020.

Camden is famously known as the “Jewel of the Maine Coast.” During summer, the town’s harbor is always busy and packed due to the influx of tourists.

During the autumn season, when the trees of Camden, Maine, put on their most vibrant display, the city is even more stunning.

Outdoor adventurers, ocean lovers, shoppers, and food buffs will have a fantastic time in this tourist destination.

For up-to-date information on hours of operation, ensure to call the restaurants and attractions before your visit.

Here are the top things to do in Camden, Maine.

Things to Do in Camden, Maine

1. megunticook lake.

The tranquil Megunticook Lake is nestled at the foot of the Camden Hills, a short distance from Camden’s quaint and tourist-friendly community.

Located 3 miles from the Camden coast at the eastern side of the Lake is Barrett’s Cove Beach, an excellent location for swimming and picnics; it is hardly ever congested.

The Beach contains a kid-friendly section and a floating diving platform in the lake. This destination has no lifeguards on duty, so swimmers must take caution.

For those who would like to kayak or boat around the cove and experience the world around the lake, there are plenty of available boats at the premise and a nearby boat launch. There is also a lovely grassy picnic area with tables and grills to enhance your experience.

Address: Barrett’s Cove Beach, Beaucaire Lane, off Route 52, Camden, ME, United States

2. Mount Battie and Camden Hills State Park

This Picturesque Park is among the best places to visit in Camden, Maine. Reaching the lush 5,700-acre Camden Hills State Park takes a delightful two-hour climb up the Camden Hills, which towers above Camden’s picturesque coastal village.

This Park is the ideal location for an outdoor recreation day, as it has 30 miles of hiking paths that wind through forests, providing spectacular scenery of the highlands and lakes in the area.

Guests can bring lunches to the Park and picnic with friends and family in the large picnic area.

The Maiden’s Cliff Trail gives stunning lookouts of Megunticook Lake. At the same time, Mount Battie- the Park’s 800-foot rocky pinnacle, offers beautiful sights of Penobscot Bay and the surrounding islands.

For great views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and Mount Battie, you’ll want to check out this destination when visiting Camden, Maine.

Address: 280 Belfast Road, Camden, ME 04843, United States

3. Barrett’s Cove Public Beach

Barrett’s Cove Public Beach, a tranquil and pleasant site near Camden’s freshwater lake, has been drawing families with children of all ages because of its picturesque aspect. It also offers a view of Camden Hills.

Families can enjoy some time outdoors and freshwater swimming at this lakeshore getaway.

Barrett’s cove is one of the local areas that transforms into a refuge of solitude on hot days, despite the high visitor traffic throughout the summer at several Camden beaches.

This coastal gem gives you access to Mount Battie, a somewhat curled peak rising on the western edge of Camden Hills State Park, where you may take in its spectacular magnificence.

There are parking places available to access this welcoming town-owned property. Exploring this Beach is one of the best things to do in Camden, Maine.

Address: 104 Beaucaire Ave, Camden, ME 04843, United States

4. Windjammer Festival

The Camden Windjammer Festival honors the city’s long maritime heritage. Attending this Festival is one of the fun things to do in Camden, Maine.

Boating and sailing have historically been essential parts of life in Camden. The locals use a range of watercraft, including yachts, schooners, and sailboats.

Visiting the city without having to attend this remarkable occasion, see their watercraft, and participate in it is like not visiting. All participants, including tourists, have fun at the Festival by partaking in a simple sail exercise.

They can also pick up new skills like how to tie knots, judge the direction of the water, raise a sail, and more.

With the aid of resources offered by local establishments, you can even construct your watercraft. Be sure to check out this destination when you visit Camden, Maine.

Address: Camden, ME 04843, United States

5. Christmas By the Sea

Christmas by the Sea is a well-known festival held in the winter(the first week of December) and a singular yet ideal way to spend your vacation in Camden if you visit during winter.

People from Camden and the adjacent towns of Rockport and Lincolnville get together and engage in various activities like designing, singing, dancing, exchanging foods, and more throughout the week.

Even though Camden’s winters might be fairly chilly, everyone who visits this event will feel a sense of warmth.

6. Camden Harbor Park and Amphitheatre

In 1931, Mary Louise Curtis Bok, a philanthropist, gifted the two facilities to Camden to complement the remodeled Camden Library.

Prominent designers Fletcher Steele designed the Amphitheater while the Olmsted Brothers designed the 2-acre Harbor Park.

The two attractions are on the National Register of Historic Places and were made a National Historic Landmark in 2013.

From the Parks, visitors can enjoy the majestic view of white steeples, New England village, and sailboats. The Parks have been the destination for festivals, picnics, weddings, fairs, and other events because Park’s setting is suitable for anything.

Exploring this destination is one of the top things to do in Camden, Maine.

Address: Atlantic Avenue, Camden, ME 04843, United States

7. Small Wonder Gallery

Small Wonder Gallery is a stunning destination of art in Camden. This Gallery is located near the public landing and is well known for its unique paintings and prints.

The Gallery is a small family-run gallery that gives the best when it comes to customer satisfaction.

Admire the beautiful artworks in this Gallery if you’re searching for what to do in Camden, Maine. This destination showcases various mind-blowing art pieces and beautifully framed works at an affordable rate.

The Gallery also offers limited-edition prints by local artist Abe Goodale. Suppose you wish to shop online from a distant location; Small Wonder Gallery can arrange for shipping and have your package delivered to you.

Small Wonder is a friendly, professional, and highly recommended destination when you are in Camden. Ensure to pick up a souvenir from this Gallery.

Address: 1 Public Lndg, Camden, ME 04843-1748, United States

8. Camden Snow Bowl

For fantastic winter outdoor entertainment, head to the Camden Snow Bowl . Tourists can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and snowshoeing during the wintertime on 5 miles of trails and 20 ski runs with different difficulty levels.

The Snow Bowl transforms into a warm, lush mountain forest in the summertime, making it ideal for hiking, bicycling, tennis, baseball, and softball activities.

Additionally, Hosmer Pond in the destination features boating and fishing. In addition, The Snow Bowl hosts summer camps for kids.

The Snow Bowl Lodge comfortably seats 100–150 guests for wedding receptions, parties, and family reunions,

Address: 20 Barnestown Rd, Camden, ME 04843, United States

Check out other cities in Maine, check out our list of things to do in Rockland for a fun time in Maine.

9. Camden Harbor Cruises

You can explore the stunning Penobscot Bay coast on the “Lively Lady,” a wooden boat docked in lovely Camden, Maine.

A range of excursions is available from Camden Harbor Cruises , including harbor tours and breathtaking sunset cruises.

Kids love early trips, and the ship staff loves letting youngsters explore the boat and see what’s in the lobster traps in a cozy, secure setting.

Visitors can take eco-tours to witness intriguing wildlife like seals, eagles, porpoises, and other fish species in a secluded habitat in the bay.

Additionally, the Lively Lady can be rented for special excursions and wedding celebrations.

Address: 9 Brandy Brook Rd, Camden, ME 04843, United States

10. Camden Opera House

History, art, and culture come together at the Camden Opera House to provide an unforgettable experience.

This 500-seat theatre, over 120 years old, has lovely Victorian-era accents like ancient moldings, gilded stenciling, and substantial chandeliers.

This stunning destination features shows like ballets, operas, comedic performances, movies, and classical music performances.

The Camden Opera House, owned by Camden, is a notable attraction on the hour-long guided tour of the town.

Address: 29 Elm Street, Camden, ME 04843, United States

11. Project Puffin Visitor Center

New England’s coast is home to puffins, a unique seabird with lovely, long, vibrantly colored beaks. Since the early 1970s, fewer individuals of this threatened bird species have been found.

The Project Puffin Visitor Center is committed to informing and teaching guests about the value of birds, ecology, and the ecosystem in everyday life.

The center features numerous related exhibits, displays, and documentaries.

You can take a boat excursion to admire the bird habitats and learn more about these lovely creatures.

Address: 311 Main St, Rockland, ME 04841, United States

12. The Schooner Surprise

Today, during the summer and early autumn season, Schooner Surprise is accessible for visits lasting two hours.

While on board, tourists will encounter diverse species, lighthouses, and stunning vistas of Penobscot Bay.

Even a sunset sail is offered in the late evening. Surprise can also be hired for single groups of up to 18 people.

If you are a lover of adventure, you need to join this historic vessel for a sail, as it’s one of the fun things to do in Camden, Maine.

Address: 1 Bay View St, Camden, ME 04843, United States

13. Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe

Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe is where you can relive your childhood memories of bygone eras. This lovely sweets store is housed in a historic structure with a retro aesthetic.

Both youngsters and grownups can spend their leisure time in the store. Numerous types of candy are available at this Candy Shoppe.

You can experiment with and indulge in both contemporary and classic candies. Additionally, you can sample their delectable handcrafted fudge and chocolates.

The most well-known candies in the establishment are gumballs, lollipops, bubblegum, taffy, jellybeans, and bubblegum.

This Shoppe is a destination you would love to bring your kids to see.

Address: 57 Bay View Street, Houlton, ME 04730, United States

14. Mike Kinney Maine Guide

If you want to maximize your time spent in Maine’s wonderful outdoors, Mike Kenney is your man. He offers services to guests such as picnicking, fishing, and canoeing throughout northern and coastal Maine.

His objectives include teaching guests about Maine’s seas, hills, and woods and assisting them in landing colossal fish.

If you’re searching for a trophy fish, trout, or pike or want to try fly fishing, Mike provides a variety of fishing trips for all ages.

You’ll have the opportunity to reel in a variety of fish, such as smallmouth and largemouth bass, salmon, pike, brook, brown and rainbow trout, perch, and pickerel while taking in the breathtaking scenery.

A classic canvas and cedar freighter canoe cruise of the calm Megunticook Lake lasts three hours.

Address: 508 Hope Rd., Camden, ME 04843, United States

15. Aldermere Farm

Aldermere Farm is a cattle farm that provides educational, agricultural initiatives, and neighborhood events all year. It offers distinctive, enjoyable, and intellectual knowledge.

The Maine Coast Heritage Trust is in charge of running the farm, which spans 136 acres.

The farm is well-known for its breathtaking scenery, recreational activities, and scenic attractiveness.

It was preserved in 1991 and has since gained recognition as one of the world’s most illustrious Belted Galloway cattle ranchers.

The area is quite stunning and covered in lush vegetation. Visiting this farm with family and friends is undoubtedly entertaining.

Children can learn much about cows and their various breeds at this location, making it an excellent choice.

Address: 20 Russell Ave, Rockport, ME 04856, United States

Explore more cities in Maine, check out our list of things to do in Augusta , things to do in Old Orchard Beach , and things to do in Kittery for a fun time

16. Merryspring Nature Center

Merryspring Nature Center , a 66-acre park, is the ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, as the Park is nothing short of a paradise.

The Park is accessible from 7 a.m to 6 p.m., allowing guests to stroll around its lovely sophisticated gardens. These gardens contain various regular and recurring plants, flowers, and herbs.

MerrySpring Nature Center, a non-profit educational and recreational facility, also hosts a variety of weekly seminars about nature and the ecosystem.

These lectures are excellent for learning about gardening, beekeeping, conserving the environment, and more.

This Park is the ideal location for tourists and researchers who wish to discover Maine’s native plants and creatures.

30 Conway Road, PO Box 893, Camden, ME 04843, United States

17. Curtis Island Light

How can you be looking for what to do in Camden, Maine, when you’ve not seen this great Lighthouse?

This Lighthouse offers a fantastic view of the surrounding Bay and Camden. Finding this unique destination can be difficult, but using a map will lead you straight to it.

A small sign is nailed to a tree across the road that points to the short path to the overlook. Due to the limited parking space in a residential area, ensure to take caution when parking.

At the overlook, there is a bench. Keep your kids close by because it’s a high cliff.

Address: 1 Beacon Ave, Camden, ME 04843-2205, United States

18. Natalie’s

Natalie’s is a chic restaurant that pictures opulent Parisian dining rooms. It is housed in a stunning New England Victorian inn with breathtaking views of the vintage Windjammers that rock in Camden’s sparkling bay.

The exquisite, vibrant red dining room with glittering white linens and polished wood is spectacular and inviting, and the classy bar shines with classic lighting.

On the large, open porch that looks out over the bay, there is the most excellent seat in the house.

Executive chefs Chris Long and Shelby Stevens serve modern cuisine with international influences using seasonal ingredients, concentrating on locally caught seafood and shellfish, greens, herbs, fruits, and berries from adjacent farms, including cheese and butter from nearby dairies.

This restaurant is one of the best places to visit in Camden for sophisticated fine dining and an array of international wines.

If you plan on going on a romantic date or treating yourself to a good meal, ensure you visit.

Address: 83 Bayview Street, Camden, ME 04843, United States

19. Schooner Olad Windjammer Cruise

Schooner Olad, an illustrious sailing vessel, was constructed in 1927. The Olad is located in Camden, Maine, and gives daily two-hour tours during the summer and autumn seasons.

Visitors to Penobscot Bay on deck the Olad will witness sights like bald eagles, lighthouses, small islands, other ships, and the stunning, rugged coastline of Maine.

The wooden sailboat Owl, which can accommodate up to six guests, is another option for visitors.

The Olad and the Owl are accessible for exclusive charters and dedicated lobster bake voyages. Do not miss out on this remarkable cruise.

Address: 1 Bay Vw Lndg, Camden, ME 04843, United States

20. Golfer’s Crossing Miniature Golf

Golfer’s Crossing Miniature Golf , an 18-hole course that welcomes families, is the ideal location to participate in a casual golf match.

The 2005 construction of the golf club by Harris Miniature Golf included a curved natural design, several streams, and a waterfall.

The location also sells ice cream, drinks, soft beverages, and golf balls as souvenirs along with the golf course.

Thanks to its topography and holes of varied complexities, the location is ideal for all players, from amateurs to professionals. Ensure to stop by for some fun.

Address: 7 Country Inn Way, Rockport, ME 04856., United States

21. Spirit Soaring Glider Rides

Taking a trip with Spirit Soaring Glider Rides is among the most exciting and fun ways to enjoy the sights in Camden.

Based on the specifications of the consumer, this service provider offers a variety of flights. The company’s pilot has more than 30 years of flying expertise.

You can even attempt to take direct control of the flight if you’re up for a little more adventure.

Stop by this destination when you visit Camden for a breathtaking flying experience.

Address: 174 Mountain St, Owls Head, ME, United States

22. Traditional Wooden Tobogganing

The top snow sled competition worldwide, the United States National Toboggan Championships, features a highly competitive and thrilling race.

The first and one of the first chutes in America was erected in 1936 by volunteers who also built a ski lodge and ski hill.

Local Coast Guardsmen built the chute until 1964 when carelessness caused damage.

The competition is annually held in the Camden Snow Bowl. The local community owns this popular year-round skiing destination.

Each year, the US National Toboggan Championships in Camden help thousands of skiers develop while generating money to support the Snow Bowl’s operating expenses.

Regardless of age or skill level, anyone is welcome to compete in the US National Toboggan Race and win the champion title.

Address: 20 Barnestown Rd, Camden, ME 04843-1748, United States

23. Mt. Battie Tower

The Mt. Battie Tower was created by Parker Morse Hooper, a well-known native of Camden, and could be seen as a tribute to Rhode Island’s Newport Tower. Exploring this destination is one of the best things to do in Camden, Maine.

Inhabitants of Camden are acquainted with Mt. Battie since it has mythical and legendary tales. Traditions and festivals held here frequently draw on its legacy.

On the northeastern tip of Mount Battie, where there had once been a clubhouse for locals, a 26-foot-tall stone memorial was erected in 1921.

As a permanent memorial to the founding members who died while defending the nation, specific stones from the magnificent building were utilized in the erection of this tower.

On the tower’s wall is a board of bronze with a written inscription.

280 Belfast Rd, Camden, ME 04843, United States

Want to check out other cities in Maine? here are guides on things to do in Bangor and things to do in Ogunquit for a fun Maine exploration.

Plan Your Trip to Camden

Camden, Maine, one of the oldest and most beautiful seaside towns in the US, offers a scintillating vacation experience.

You won’t be disappointed when you visit this quaint town, which offers exciting activities and a classic coastal holiday.

Don’t forget to refer to this list for the best ways to enjoy your Camden vacation so you don’t miss out on any must-see attractions.

About Camden
Top Attractions
Things to Do
Where to Stay
Where to Eat
Where to Shop
On The Water
LINCOLNVILLE ME
ROCKPORT ME
ROCKLAND ME
TOP CHOICES HOTELS
VIDEO TOURS
ANNUAL EVENTS
SIGHTSEEING TOURS
LIGHTHOUSES
PARKS/RECREATION
MUSEUMS/LEARNING
SPECIAL OFFERS
VACATION RENTALS
HOW TO GET HERE
LOCAL MUSINGS (Our Blog)

featured sponsor

Owls Head Transportation Museum

Click the image to play the video.

The Owls Head Transportation Museum houses a unique collection of antique automobiles, airplanes, bicycles and engines. What makes the museum different from similar museums is that all of the vehicles still operate.

see Owls Head Transportation Museum article

Museum Photos

With over 150 working exhibits, the museum's exhibition hall covers the evolution of transportation over nearly two centuries. Highlights are a World War I bi-plane, a 1935 Stout Scarab (called the world's first minivan), and the 1963 prototype of the Ford Mustang.

PO Box 277 117 Museum Street Owls Head, ME 04854 Phone: 207-594-4418 Fax: 207-594-4410

Open Every Day 10am to 5pm - Year Round Email: Click here

Visit Website Check Reviews Map It

Top Camden Maine Sightseeing Attractions - our list of the most popular sightseeing attractions in the Camden area

“So many places to see.” You will have this constant thought running through your head while visiting this part of the Maine coast. The Camden Maine area is home to some of the most amazing natural scenery, beautiful ocean vistas, and unique attractions that you can find in the state of Maine. The town’s special location between beautiful hills and the clear blue waters of Penobscot Bay offer many interesting sightseeing marvels that will make your visit truly memorable.

Because there are a myriad of things to do and see in Camden, we have compiled a list of the most popular sightseeing attractions in the area. These are our favorites so we have written about each of these popular Camden Maine sightseeing attractions from a more personal perspective. Of course, there are many more attractions and activities than those listed here and you can read about them on our Things to Do page. If you are planning a vacation trip to Camden Maine , then hopefully our insights about these top local area attractions will give you some additional details about the area.

Our List of Top Camden Maine Attractions

about camden
top attractions
things to do
where to stay
where to eat
where to shop
on the water
Coupon Builder
Advertisers
About TakeMe2
TakeMe2 INC Website
Contact TakeMe2

TakeMe2 Communications | 2 Main Street | Building 17 - Suite 301H | Biddeford, ME 04005 | 207-712-8595

28 Best Things to Do in Camden Maine This Year

As a visitor to Camden Maine, discovering the top attractions is a must. Whether you’re seeking activities for couples or families, outdoor or indoor pursuits, or land or sea adventures, rest assured that there are things to do in Camden Maine for you to enjoy.

Located in Mid-Coast Maine, Camden is a picturesque seaside town where the mountains meet the sea, providing stunning views of Mount Battie and Penobscot Bay. The most enjoyable activities stem from embracing the town’s unique and beautiful offerings.

Outdoor Things to Do in Camden Maine

Whether you prefer hiking through a forest, spending time on a beach, or getting onto the water, there’s a spot or way to do it in Camden Maine . These are some of our top recommendations for outdoor recreation in the area.

Hiking Trails

To experience stunning vistas, hiking trails, and ideal picnic spots, a trip to Camden Hills State Park is in order. On average days, the park offers sprawling views of the various bays and islands off the mainland. On clear days, you can see all the way to Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park .

If you’re interested in hiking to the peak of Mount Battie at the park, many hikers find the trail to be moderately accessible with a few steep areas. The 1-mile round-trip path provides opportunities to encounter wildlife, wildflowers, birds, and of course, the breathtaking views that surround the mountain.

Camden Snow Bowl

Also, you can check out the Camden Snow Bowl — a community-owned ski resort that stands out as the only ski resort in the region with ocean views, providing a unique experience. Depending on the season, you can enjoy hiking trails, tennis, lift rides, camps, skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing championships, and more.

On top of all this, the town has numerous nature preserves and footpaths for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area. Be sure to explore our guide for the best hiking trails Camden Maine has to offer.

Parks With Beaches

Nothing beats spending time on the coast like sinking your toes in the sand at a beach. Laite Memorial Beach offers great opportunities for paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming, as well as leisurely strolls and shell-hunting during low tide. It’s the perfect spot to spend a day and savor the Atlantic coast.

Alternatively, consider visiting Barrett’s Cove at Megunticook Lake . This local gem — often overlooked by tourists — provides a refreshing swim at a freshwater beach with stunning views of the west side of Camden Hills State Park.

Lobstering & Boat Tours

Rent a boat and venture into the harbor for a water adventure. If you’re inclined to enjoy a schooner ride with a picnic on one of the bay’s islands, consider a vessel designed for small groups, such as The Heritage sloop with Sail Camden . For sightseeing on a windjammer, consider a two-hour day sail on the Schooner Olad or Cutter Owl .

Alternatively, you can join Camden Harbor Cruises on the Lively Lady for wildlife, lighthouse, and lobstering cruises lasting one to three hours. These tours offer sightings of porpoises, harbor seals, and other wildlife. The lobster cruise even includes a brief lesson in lobster fishing.

Numerous other boat tours and rentals are available in and around Camden, so explore the various options for touring Penobscot Bay and beyond. This video provides a glimpse of the windjammer sailing experience:

Camden Maine Family & Kid-Friendly Activities

Planning a family vacation can pose challenges regardless of your children’s ages. One child may be keen on outdoor activities, while another may prefer relaxing indoors with a book. Fortunately, Camden offers a variety of family-friendly activities for children and teens.

Merryspring Nature Center

Explore the 66-acre nature sanctuary of Merryspring Nature Center , which features gardens and walking trails. The gardens showcase daylilies, herbs, roses, and perennials, while one of the trails is an interpretive trail.

The center often hosts free family-friendly events, like bug safaris and guided tree identification walks. There’s a small gift shop to visit before you depart as well.

Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe

Indulge your children’s sweet tooth with classic and modern candies at Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe . The store offers a variety of brittle, fudge, gourmet chocolates, gummies, licorice, and novelties alongside regularly changing seasonal flavors and treats. You’re likely to find something to satisfy your own sweet tooth too.

Owl & Turtle Bookshop Cafe

For a quieter family-friendly activity, visit the Owl & Turtle Bookshop Cafe , which offers a unique collection of books and trinkets. Children can enjoy a dedicated reading area, and you may even catch an author reading during your visit.

The bookshop hosts numerous events throughout the year, and the cafe area serves savory and sweet treats from local bakers, along with coffee supplied by the local Coffee on the Porch.

More Family-Friendly Activities Nearby

There are many kid-friendly things to do in Camden Maine, but sometimes it’s fun to explore beyond the town boundaries. In this case, there are a few wonderful places in nearby Rockport — just outside of Camden — to take kids.

Golfer’s Crossing Miniature Golf

Engage in some light-hearted rivalry at Golfer’s Crossing Miniature Golf . This welcoming mini-golf course boasts 18 holes amidst beautiful, natural features, including waterfalls. Open for the season, it’s a favorite for visitors of all ages, so ready your putter to attempt scoring under par while you navigate playful obstacles, like a classic windmill.

Aldermere Farm

For a delightful hands-on learning experience, take your family to Aldermere Farm . You can tour the farm and get up close with the charming Belted Galloway cows — affectionately compared to Oreo cookies because of their distinctive markings. And, don’t forget to take a stroll down the family-friendly walking path.

Penobscot Bay YMCA

Should the weather not cooperate or if you’re in the mood for indoor fun, head over to the Penobscot Bay YMCA . With facilities that include a 25-yard swimming pool, a gymnasium, a rock climbing center, and a family play center, there’s something for everyone.

On sunny days, the outdoor playground is a popular spot too. Plus, managing your personal items is a breeze with the available lockers.

Free & Cheap Things to Do in Camden Maine

If you’re like many families looking to vacation on a budget, you’ll want to find affordable activities in Camden. We’ve already mentioned several low-cost options above, but let’s cover a few more.

Camden Public Library

Head to the Camden Public Library , a haven for young readers. Founded in 1796 with only 200 books, this historic institution now has a vast collection, including an excellent selection of children’s books. The children’s room even features a boat where kids can sit and read. Plus, there’s a cozy reading room upstairs.

Harbor Park and Amphitheatre

Right next to the library, you’ll find Harbor Park and Amphitheatre . They’re part of the library’s grounds and host various events, including charity functions, craft fairs, and concerts.

When there’s nothing scheduled, these spaces are peaceful places for a stroll or for relaxing by Camden Harbor . Enjoy a picnic on the lawn, or grab an ice cream from a shop close by.

Vesper Hill Children’s Chapel

For another cost-free outing, visit the Children’s Chapel near Aldermere Farm in Rockport. This outdoor chapel is a site for baptisms, memorials, weddings, and other events but is also open for public reflection, prayer, or simply a quiet moment. Your family can also appreciate the formal garden with its mix of perennials, annuals, herbs, and trees, or have a picnic on the expansive lawn.

Best Restaurants in Camden

You’ll discover that there’s nothing quite like savoring fresh, local seafood or a mouth-watering lobster roll, especially when it’s crafted by a family-owned business with a down-to-earth approach.

River Ducks Ice Cream

River Ducks Ice Cream serves both traditional ice cream and soft serve, making it a must-visit during its seasonal opening in the summer. A glowing review from a Facebook user highlights its appeal:

“We happened along this place on our first trip to Camden. No exaggerating, in all my years of packing away a ton of ice cream, this is my favorite. Maine Moose tracks, omg…heaven….”

With such high praise, it’s clear that a visit to River Ducks won’t disappoint!

Camden House of Pizza

For more than two decades, Camden House of Pizza has been a staple in the Camden Maine community. Renowned for its excellent pizza and Greek cuisine, the restaurant serves everything from salads and pasta dinners to gyros, sandwiches, and pizza (of course).

Whether you prefer to customize your pizza with your favorite toppings, select from popular choices, or simply grab a quick slice from the warmer, there’s something for everyone.

Long Grain stands as an ideal choice for locavores craving an Asian-inspired culinary adventure. This restaurant prides itself on sourcing ingredients locally and seasonally. The menu is a diverse mosaic of Asian flavors, featuring inspirations from Vietnamese and Thai street food to Indonesian and Japanese family meals, among others.

Waterfront Restaurant

While exploring the coast, indulging in the amazing, locally sourced seafood is a must. At Waterfront Restaurant , you have the opportunity to enjoy seafood freshly caught in the area. Even the meat is locally sourced and brought in daily to ensure that you’re enjoying food at its peak of flavor.

Natalie’s Restaurant

When you want to elevate your dining experience even further, Natalie’s Restaurant offers a sophisticated setting. Overlooking the harbor, it provides not just a meal but also a culinary journey, featuring locally sourced, fresh ingredients for a truly rich experience that entices all of your senses through color, aroma, presentation, and of course, flavor.

There are numerous beloved restaurants in Camden Maine , and a particular fondness is held for those that are locally owned and operated.

Favorite Camden Maine Festivals & Events

A good festival is the perfect way to enjoy lively music, uplift your spirits, and immerse yourself in the local community and culture. Here are a few highlights of the events that you can expect in Camden.

Jazz in June

In Camden, the summer season starts with the Jazz in June festival, a three-day event featuring jazz music across various venues in town and even on the streets. You’ll have a fantastic time soaking in the jazz tunes and exploring the diverse locations.

Camden Windjammer Festival

As summer draws to a close, the Camden Windjammer Festival takes place during Labor Day weekend. This event isn’t just about food and live entertainment — it also features a treasure hunt, activities like building mini boats, and the majestic sailing of schooner fleets.

Christmas by the Sea

The festive spirit in Camden isn’t limited to summer. Christmas by the Sea , a three-day event, is perfect for getting into the holiday mood. It offers everything from caroling and shopping to a live nativity scene and an exciting parade.

U.S. National Tobogganing Championships

Furthermore, winter brings its own charm with the U.S. National Tobogganing Championships every February. This competition welcomes professional teams and offers awards for the oldest team, the best costume, and more, making it a unique and enjoyable event for everyone.

Mid-Coast Maine is renowned for its vibrant festival scene. Get more details about the top festivals in Camden, Rockport, and Rockland to explore them firsthand.

Unique Shopping Opportunities in Camden Maine

If you need essentials for your trip or a special gift to take back home, Camden’s array of shops has you covered. The town boasts some of the most distinctive and independent stores in the Mid-Coast region.

The Smiling Cow

A family-owned gem, The Smiling Cow has been a part of downtown Camden for over 75 years. This unique gift shop offers a wide range of items, from books and clothing to gifts and collectibles. You’ll also find homemade fudge and Maine maple syrup here.

Plus, its location atop the Megunticook River means that you can enjoy stunning views of Camden Harbor and Penobscot Bay from its back porch.

Once a Tree

Once a Tree has stood as one of the area’s top gift shops for over 35 years. Even after moving from Bay View Street to Main Street, it continues to feature a diverse collection of unusual and practical handcrafted items. The shop’s inventory includes everything from kitchen essentials and home accessories to candles, soaps, and jewelry.

Antiques at 10 Mechanic

Specializing in antiques, Antiques at 10 Mechanic offers a treasure trove of items sourced from over 20 local vendors. The shop’s range includes collectibles, furniture, clothing, and accessories. For vinyl record enthusiasts, there’s an extensive collection to browse through as well.

Camden Maine Area Museums & Historical Sites

Camden Maine was settled in the late 18th century and was initially part of a larger town known as Megunticook. During the 19th century, it became an important center for shipbuilding and milling due to its location near the sea. This history is reflected in the town’s historic buildings, lighthouse, and area museums.

High Street Historic District

When you visit Camden, make sure to explore the High Street Historic District . This area — recognized on the National Register of Historic Places — showcases buildings that adhere to 18th and 19th-century architectural styles, offering you a glimpse into the past.

Museums to Explore

If you’re interested in learning more about Camden’s history, the Camden-Rockport Historical Society is a great place to start. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts, photographs, and historic documents across six historic buildings in Rockport.

For a dive into the Revolutionary Era, the Henry Knox Museum in Thomaston awaits your visit, offering insights into the life and times of this bygone era. But, these are just a few of the many fascinating museums and galleries in and around Camden .

Lighthouses to Visit

No visit to Maine’s coastline is complete without seeing a lighthouse. In Camden, you can view the Curtis Island Lighthouse , originally established in 1836. While it’s not open to the public, it offers a picturesque view from the island’s public park, a boat, or the Curtis Island Overlook.

Another must-see lighthouse is the Grindle Point Light Station on Islesboro’s westernmost point, which is only accessible by boat from Camden Maine. This lighthouse, first established in 1850 and rebuilt in 1874, includes a Sailor’s Museum that’s open for summer tours.

With 65 lighthouses in Maine, there’s plenty more for you to discover. Our list of Mid-Coast Maine lighthouses can help you plan your journey.

Excellent Lodging for Camden Maine Adventures

For the opportunity to experience these things to do in Camden Maine, consider staying with us at The Country Inn . Our bed-and-breakfast-style hotel is committed to offering outstanding hospitality, which is evident in every aspect of our property.

You’re sure to enjoy our upgraded breakfast options , the warmth of our indoor heated pool, and the array of amenities that elevate each stay from the ordinary to the extraordinary.

Choose one of our rooms or cottages when you begin planning your Camden Maine getaway!

Last Modified April 3, 2024

Accommodations

Guest reviews.

More From Forbes

2 southern maine towns to visit for the scenery and the food.

Share to Facebook
Share to Twitter
Share to Linkedin

Sailboat sailing in the Atlantic Ocean near Kennebunkport, Maine.

During the pandemic, chef Rafael Zimmerman made a decision to curtail the detailed culinary school influenced food that he was creating in various restaurants in Portland, Maine. “I started thinking about what I really wanted to eat,” he says. And what he wanted was a comfort food return to his Peruvian roots, to the food he grew up eating in his mother’s kitchen. Now, as the chef of Magnus on Water which he joined last year in the town of Biddeford, 20 miles south of Portland, he’s putting a creative, elevated spin on those dishes, adding another reason to stop off in this town, named by Food & Wine Magazine as one of America’s next great food cities.

Amberjack sashimi with salmon roe, crispy quinoa and cherimoya leche de tigre at Magnus on Water in ... [+] Biddeford, Maine

Among the standouts on his menu: Striped Bass Sashimi with Passionfruit Tiger’s Milk, Avocado & Orange; Cabbage Salad with Aji Amarillo Fish Sauce Dressing, Sesame, Peanut & Lime, Chicha Morada Char Siu Pork Belly, Peruvian Baked Beans, Slaw and Cilantro ( an elevated form of his mother’s pork and beans) and the classic Tres Leches Cake with Horchata Whip, Cinnamon & Vanilla. The restaurant is also known for Beverage Director Brian Catapang’s distinctive cocktails such as Black Mamba, a concoction of Blanco Tequila, Pear Eau de Vie, Caramelized Citrus, Sparkling Yuzu and Wild Blackberry Salt, that earned it a place on the new Pinnacle Guide of the 37 best cocktail bars in the world.

Chicha Morada Char Siu Pork Belly with Peruvian Baked Beans, an upscale version of pork and beans at ... [+] Magnus on Water.

Elsewhere in town is an evolving array of food purveyors and dining spots, the result of what Magnus restaurant manager Cherie Kahrman describes as a creativity magnet—one taking root leading to other creatives moving in, many into now abandoned spaces in this former mill town. The pioneers of the movement opened a decade ago: the reinvented Palace Diner , known for its all day breakfasts and perfectly executed comfort food such as fried chicken and cabbage slaw in a restored 1927 railcar and Elements: Books Coffee Beer , known for its in house roasted coffee, craft beer and wine and housemade pastries. More recent arrivals include Fish & Whistle , a fish and chip shop from two upscale restaurant veterans showcasing the best of Maine seafood, Nibblesford , a shop spotlighting artisan New England cheese, Dizzy Birds Rotisserie which apart from juicy rotisserie chicken serves New England pot roast, baby back ribs and an assortment of cookies, cheesecake and pots de crème from its bakery. There’s also a large selection of solid ethnic restaurants including the Vietnamese Que Huong , the Chinese Happy Dragon Restaurant , The Jewel of India , Thai ME , the Middle Eastern Layalina Restaurant and the Mexican Coco Bar & Grill.

Father Of Suspected Trump Gunman Was Profiled As Pro-Gun Voter By Trump Campaign: What We Know About Thomas Matthew Crooks

‘the acolyte’ episode 8 recap and review: a dreadful season finale and the cameos can’t save it, amazon prime day 2024: the 110 best deals of day two so far.

The Biddeford, Maine skyline on the Saco River.

On any night, though, a large number of locals are also settled in at Batson River Brewing & Distilling , a sibling of other restaurants in Portland, Wells and Kennebunk located downstairs at recent arrival The Lincoln Hotel . The menu runs the gamut between well executed classics and inventions: Duck Fat Cornbread with hot honey and Maple Bourbon Butter, Crabcakes Remoulade, Fried Shrimp with Sesame Glaze and Pickled Ginger Aioli, a Lobster Roll and Short Rib Cheesesteak.

A room at The Lincoln Hotel in Biddeford.

Upstairs, the 33 room boutique hotel, opened in the fall of 2022 in another former mill, has the sharp design usually on view in much larger city hotels: expansive rooms with exposed brick walls, architectural details, gas fireplaces, Oriental rugs and tufted leather chairs along with a buzzy lobby bar. There’s also a rooftop pool with views over the city.

The lobby of The Lincoln Hotel

“Biddeford is a city rich in history, with industrial bones and unique spaces just waiting to be brought back to life,” explains Tim Harrington, owner of Atlantic Hospitality detailing why the company opened the hotel here. “It’s also Maine’s youngest and fastest-growing city, home to craftsmen and designers, just like it was centuries ago. We had seen an interest in revitalizing this city with new cafes, shops, and entertainment hubs but what was missing was a truly luxe hotel. Now, after eight years of work, The Lincoln is representative of the heart and soul of Biddeford, allowing visitors to come and experience the city’s vibrancy in a way they never could before.”

Fortunes Rocks Beach near Biddeford Pool

Biddeford is located inland on the Saco River but it’s just a 15 minute drive out to the coast, to the village of Biddeford Pool and steamed lobster, steamers or a lobster roll overlooking Saco Bay at Goldthwaite’s Pool Lobster . The village also has one of three public beaches on the bay; the other two are Middle Beach and Fortunes Rock Beach, a local favorite for surfers. Parking permits are available in one, three and seven day time frames and are available to buy from kiosks in the parking lots.

The exterior of the The White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection, in Kennebunk, Maine

Ten miles south in the famous resort town of Kennebunk (separated by a bridge from even more famous Kennebunkport) The White Barn Inn & Spa , now part of Auberge Resorts Collection, has been a classic New England inn for over 150 years. That history is reflected in the four shingled, period buildings all with vintage and contemporary furnishings and the 19 th century barn that serves as the setting of the more formal White Barn Inn Restaurant and more casual Little Barn. (The fine dining menu currently includes dishes such as pumpkin and lobster agnolotti and grass fed beef tenderloin with sauce Périgueux plus a 7 course tasting menu with lobster in the six savory courses; that may change somewhat when a new chef starts in August.)

The historic barn housing the White Barn Inn Restaurant.

The inn is a 16 minute walk to Gooch’s Beach for ocean swimming; kayaking is also nearby on the Kennebunk River. For a completely waterfront stay, though, the inn has five cottages, measuring between 400 and 1,035 square feet and designed with a similar mix of vintage and fresh, contemporary décor, located near the marina on the Kennebunk River. Starting in September, there will be a way to stay directly on the river when the inn launches the purpose built houseboat Cora named after one of the inn’s previous owners and measuring 512 square feet with a 640 square foot rooftop. It will be moored at the inn’s private dock near the site of the al fresco dinners and movie nights held during the summer. But guests can always come back on land to go to the barn for dinner.

A junior suite at the White Barn Inn, Auberge Resorts Collection

Editorial Standards
Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts.

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's Terms of Service. We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
Content that otherwise violates our site's terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
Actions that otherwise violate our site's terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

Stay on topic and share your insights
Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
Protect your community.
Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's Terms of Service.

Historic town of Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania. Image credit EQRoy via Shutterstock

10 Best Up-And-Coming US Towns

Several classifications contribute to the status of up-and-coming being given to a town, a city, or even a neighborhood within a city. These include showcasing popular hometown shops and eateries, having natural and historical attractions, and hosting festivals for visitors in the town year-round. Each of these factors guarantees a growth of social economics, creating an influx of residents and urging visitors to return each year. From Camden on the Atlantic coast to Auburn on the Pacific , here are ten small towns that offer these factors in varying degrees. Whether it is due to a local restaurant in Maine or to the facades of architecture in California, these towns are some of the best up-and-coming towns in the United States .

Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania

On the banks of the Lehigh River, 120 miles west of New York City, the town of Jim Thorpe is a perfect example of an up-and-coming town in many ways. While it had a population decrease several years back, this borough of 5,000 is now steadily growing.

Jim Thorpe also features several events annually, like the Fall Foliage Festival, held the first three weekends in October, and WinterFest every February. Many businesses in and around Jim Thorpe draw people from all over America, like the Bear Mountain Butterfly Sanctuary and the Asa Packer Museum, which was finished in 1861.

Camden, Maine

The picturesque town of Camden, located on the coast of the Atlantic, has many attributes that help to label it as one of the best up-and-coming towns in the United States. In addition to a steady and slowing increasing population of 5,000 residents, the economy remains strong and on the rise, bringing thousands of tourists every year. The creation of the riverwalk and public landing in 2013 and efforts to protect the resilience of that same public landing, as well as all of Camden Harbor, in 2020 have helped to improve the social growth within this small town.

Several other amenities in and around Camden, Maine , assist in that growth as well, like Camden Hills State Park and the High Street Historic District. While the state park promotes revenue through camping, fishing, and hiking, the historic district in downtown Camden supports local eateries like Peter Ott’s and the Waterfront and mom-and-pop shops like The Smiling Cow and Once A Tree.

Aspen, Colorado

As another popular tourist town, Aspen's population is currently in a slight decline, but it has a strong economy, drawing visitors, especially during the cooler months. While Aspen is predominantly known for its skiing and snowboarding during the winter, several events and amenities occur in the summertime that also assist the economic growth of this small Colorado town, like the Aspen Food & Wine festival, the Aspen Ideas festival, and Aspen Summer Words, all of which take place in the month of June.

A variety of other up-and-coming attributes are located within downtown Aspen as well, including a Darkside Ghost tour, an Aspen Scavenger Hunt, and a Past-to-Present Historical tour. These all allow a steady growth of revenue through shopping at stores like the Aspen Emporium, dining at restaurants like the White House Tavern, and staying at bed & breakfast inns like the Hearthstone House.

Taos, New Mexico

Buildings in Taos, which is the last stop before entering Taos Pueblo, New Mexico

Not only popular with tourists, this town of 6,000 grew by 12% from 2010 to 2020. Between the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, the High Road to Taos, and Enchanted Circle Drive, the town of Taos has a multitude of outdoor activities that help to raise its economic stability. Downtown Taos, New Mexico, also assists with this by having several shops, eateries, and inns that cater especially to visitors. The Adobe & Pines Inn, which is in close proximity to a variety of quaint, mom-and-pop shops, is a comfy place to rest for the evening and have a great breakfast the following morning.

Several museums provide a true taste of this town's heritage and history. The Taos Art Museum and the Kit Carson Home add ambiance to the history, while Taos Plaza offers everything from restaurants like Lambert’s to shops like John Dunn, all constructed in that cultural adobe fashion.

Petoskey, Michigan

With a population increase of approximately 3.5% between 2010 and 2020, this city of 5,887 residents is on the rise. High up on “the Mitten,” on the southern shore of Little Traverse Bay, the town of Petoskey is a hidden gem within the miles of farmland for which Michigan is known. Petoskey State Park and the Bear River Valley Recreation Area both add to that healthy economic growth that Petoskey is currently experiencing.

Petoskey is also home to its very own Historic Gaslight District, which has several restaurants and eateries like Chandler’s, which features a tasty Bronzini, and a variety of local shops like Grandpa Shorter’s Gifts and Haystacks. There are even a plethora of local parks in and around downtown Petoskey, including Bayfront, Washington, and Magnus, all providing that sense of warmth to be experienced by visitors from near and far.

Skaneateles, New York

The town of Skaneateles, situated at the head of Skaneateles Lake and north of Carpenter Falls, is one of the most welcoming towns in the Finger Lakes region of New York . Being in close proximity to a plethora of natural amenities, as well as a variety of hometown shops and B&B inns, like Aristocats and Dogs and the Hobbit Hollow, assists with this town of 7,000 residents being considered one of the best up-and-coming towns in all of the United States.

Skaneateles also claims ownership of many festivals which cater to visitors as well as residents. The Curbstone Festival brings shopping out on the sidewalks of Skaneateles, while the “Off the Dock” Chamber Festival provides a taste of music quite near to several excellent restaurant choices like Blue Water Grill and Willow Glen.

Bisbee, Arizona

The town of Bisbee is best known for Lowell Historic District and Erie Street, first originating as the community of Lowell at the start of the 20th century and is still maintained today as a replica of its former self by volunteers. Yet this town of 5,000 people in Arizona is also known for a variety of other historical attributes that add to its economic growth, including the Copper Queen Mine, the Bisbee Mining Museum, and the Muheim Heritage House, all of which showcase the history of the town and the surrounding area.

There are also a variety of local shops, diners, and restaurants in Bisbee, like Le Cornucopia Cafe, the Bisbee Breakfast Club, and Bisbee’s Table, which serves delicious hometown meatloaf.

Brattleboro, Vermont

On the opposite corner of the United States, in the pastoral state of Vermont , the town of Brattleboro is an oasis set amidst a plethora of dairy farms. From Living Memorial Park and Brattleboro Commons to Brattleboro Farmers Market and the Creamery Covered Bridge, Brattleboro welcomes visitors to return for a new experience each year.

There are also several local farms, like Robb Family Farm Sugar House, which aim more to guests of Brattleboro than most, while a variety of other stores and establishments, including Twice Upon A Time and Saxton’s Distillery, cater especially to visitors. There are also great restaurants and inns assisting with the growth of town, like Peter Havens Restaurant and the Inn on Putney Road B&B. With a steady and slow-growing population of 12,000, Battleboro is one of the largest and most up-and-coming communities on the border of eastern Vermont.

Bardstown, Kentucky

With a 14% increase in population from 2010 to 2020, Bardstown is a fast-growing community, and popular as the home of Kentucky Bourbon. This creates steep economic growth for this Nelson County town in a multitude of possibilities, including through the many bourbon distilleries, visitors checking out the Oscar Getz Museum of Whiskey History, and the many bourbon tasting rooms in town.

Yet this town of around 13,000 people is also home to several attributes not acquainted with the creation and distribution of bourbon, like My Old Kentucky Home State Park and the Old Bardstown Village Civil War Museum. There are a plethora of excellent dining and lodging choices in town as well, including Stephen Foster Restaurant, showcasing a delicious southern fare, and Red Rose Inn B&B, which offers a great breakfast the following morning.

Auburn, California

Located in Placer County, Auburn has a growing population of about 14,000 residents. This picturesque California town is home to a variety of attractions and attributes that cater to visitors year-round. The Auburn State Recreation Area, Foresthill, and Lake Clementine all add a touch of nature, while Old Town Auburn, an excellent weekend treat, has everything from downtown walking tours to a plethora of eateries and restaurants.

Katrina’s Cafe serves a delicious hometown eggs benedict, while cultural fares can be experienced through the Auburn Thai Garden and tre Pazzi trattoria. There are also a variety of shops in downtown Auburn, including TBG, which offers handmade clothing styles.

While the entirety of the United States presents the avid traveler with everything from majestic mountain peaks to picturesque coastal vistas, there is something to be said about small towns possessing that drive to become more while not inhibiting its quaint hometown charm. From the western seaboard and the town of Auburn to the east coast and the town of Camden, there are many small towns in America that excel in growing economically. Whether it is through the revenue of shops and restaurants downtown or the profits of nearby natural attractions, these ten towns are some of the best up-and-coming towns in the United States.

More in Places

People walking around in Byron Bay, New South Wales, via Kevin Hellon / Shutterstock.com

7 Most Friendly Towns in New South Wales

Railroad Museum in the Old West mining town of Wallace, Idaho. Image credit Kirk Fisher via Shutterstock

These Historic Towns in Idaho Are Worth Exploring

Beautiful street view downtown Eureka Springs, shop commerce destination area.

8 Cozy Towns to Visit in The Ozarks

Beechworth, Victoria: view along Ford Street, the main commercial street in central Beechworth, a north east Victorian town, via Nils Versemann / Shutterstock.com

8 Towns in Victoria with the Best Downtown Areas in 2024

n Asian woman sightseeing with a map in Solvang, California.

8 Towns in Southern California With Thriving Local Businesses

A row of colorful beach houses known as “The Birdhouses” overlook Bayou Aloe, in Dauphin Island, Alabama. Image credit Carmen K. Sisson via Shutterstock.

8 of the Most Charming Towns in Alabama

Victorian storefronts in Ferndale, USA. Editorial credit: travelview / Shutterstock.com

8 Budget-Friendly Towns in Northern California for Retirees

Hershey Park in Hershey, Pennsylvania, USA. Editorial credit: Lissandra Melo / Shutterstock.com

11 Friendliest Towns to Visit in Pennsylvania in 2024

Press Herald

Account Subscription: ACTIVE

Questions about your account? Our customer service team can be reached at [email protected] during business hours at (207) 791-6000 .

Ossipee Valley Fair, Moxie Festival and more happening this weekend

The Maine International Film Festival starts Friday in Waterville.

You are able to gift 5 more articles this month.

Anyone can access the link you share with no account required. Learn more .

With a Press Herald subscription, you can gift 5 articles each month.

It looks like you do not have any active subscriptions. To get one, go to the subscriptions page .

Loading....

Now that we’re all comfortably settled into the rhythm of summer, let’s do a classic summer thing and go to a fair!

Jeremy Schoff of York leads his oxen, Pete and Red, during the ox pull on Thursday at the Ossippe Valley Fair in 2021. Ben McCanna/Staff Photographer

The Ossipee Valley Fair starts today and runs through Sunday. We especially love the Farmer Olympics because the hay bale toss and blind wheelbarrow obstacle course competition is fierce. Ray Routhier has details about Ossipee Valley and several others fairs happening this summer in Bangor, Waterville and Acton, among other locales.

Go a little farther afield and find a Maine summer fair for you

Aretha Aoki & Ryan MacDonald (right, in bear suit) performing IzumonookunI (stet capital letter at the end). Aretha Aoki & Ryan MacDonald will be bringing this dance program to the Bates Dance Festival July 12 and 14, 2024 at the Schaeffer Theatre on the Bates College campus in Lewiston, Maine. Photo by Colin Kelly

Another summer tradition is the Bates Dates Festival in Lewiston . Performances are underway, and arts writer Megan Gray has the scoop on “IzumonookunI” by Aretha Aoki and Ryan MacDonald. See it tonight and Saturday.

Topsham couple’s Bates Dance Festival performance is inspired by kabuki, punk rock and their 7-year-old

Big Yellow Taxi. Photo by Julian Parker Burns

I’m headed to One Longfellow Square on Friday night to see the Massachusetts-based Joni Mitchell tribute band Big Yellow Taxi. They’ll be playing Mitchell’s 1974 album “Court and Spark,” along with other tunes.

Tribute to Joni Mitchell celebrates 50 years of ‘Court and Spark’

“3 Vendors of Ipanema” is directed by Lewiston native Jonathan S. Lee. Courtesy of JSL Films

We weren’t kidding when we said there’s a lot going on right now. The 27th annual Maine International Film Festival starts on Friday and runs through July 21 in Waterville. Our film writer, Dennis Perkins, offers up his picks for 12 screenings worth your while.

12 hidden gems of this year’s Maine International Film Festival

Spectators watching a previous year’s Moxie Festival Parade in Lisbon Falls. Carl D. Walsh/Staff Photographer

Our weekly events roundup includes the East Bayside block party in Portland and the Moxie Festival in Lisbon Falls. Should you make it to the festival on Saturday, don’t miss “American Idol” alum Julia Gagnon singing at 1:30 p.m.

Kennebunks garden tour, Moxie Festival, East Bayside block party

One with Everything from Gunnar’s Icelandic Hot Dogs. Photo by Ray Routhier

Need a break from standard-issue hot dogs? We love them too, but sometimes a new twist is just what your taste buds need. Ray Routhier stopped by Gunnar’s Icelandic Hot Dogs cart . If you like what you read, you can find it parked from 4-9 p.m. Thursday at Apres in Portland, then on the roof of Bayside Bowl on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Sick of red snappers? Try an Icelandic hot dog instead

Modify your screen name

Join the Conversation

Please sign into your Press Herald account to participate in conversations below. If you do not have an account, you can register or subscribe . Questions? Please see our FAQs .

Your commenting screen name has been updated.

Send questions/comments to the editors.

Member Log In

Please enter your username and password below. Already a subscriber but don't have one? Click here .

Not a subscriber? Click here to see your options

10 Of The Most Beautiful Downtowns To Visit In Maine

Fall in Maine is the perfect time to explore the state's charming towns and cities, with their scenic, historic streets and vibrant main streets. Wander downtown areas packed with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Coastal villages and mountain hamlets showcase a range of architectural styles, from ornate brick buildings to colorful clapboard storefronts. These areas also host farmer's markets, art walks, concerts, and cultural festivals.
Visiting Maine's picturesque downtowns is a must for travelers looking to experience the state's many treasures. Browse locally owned boutiques, cafes, and breweries, and admire the historic architecture that gives each town its unique charm.

One of the best free things to do in Maine during the fall is to stroll down its towns' and cities' scenic and historic streets. From Maine's oldest-founded towns to its bustling modern cities, the state has many charming areas with beautiful downtowns and vibrant main streets. These beautiful historic business districts invite visitors to park their cars and stroll from shop to shop, gallery to gallery, and restaurant to restaurant.

From coastal villages to mountain hamlets, the architecture ranges from brick buildings with ornate detailing to colorful rows of clapboard storefronts. Beyond shopping and dining, many beautiful downtown areas in Maine host farmer's markets, art walks, concerts, and festivals celebrating community and culture.

For travelers looking for some of the best trips in Maine to take in the fall , visiting these pictorial downtowns is a must. Wander the quaint sidewalks and discover locally owned boutiques, cafes, breweries, historic architecture, and more that provide a taste of Maine's many treasures.

RELATED: 10 Top Places To Retire In Maine To Enjoy New England Golden Years

Boothbay Harbor

This bustling seaside downtown overlooks the picturesque harbor and has gardens and grand old houses. The narrow main street beckons visitors to pop into boutiques, fudge shops, and restaurants housed in historic buildings.

Don't miss the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens on the outskirts, which displays ornamental gardens, native woodlands, and waterfront trails. The popular Boothbay Railway Village also offers short train excursions from the town's old restored depot.

Location: On the coast in Midcoast Maine
Top Attractions: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, Boothbay Railway Village
Things to Do: Ride the railway, explore the gardens, browse shops and galleries

Situated on the banks of the Sheepscot River, Wiscasset boasts one of the most beautiful downtowns in Maine; it is a nationally recognized main street lined with colonial architecture and antique shops.

Sample the famous Red's Eats lobster roll stand, which has been in business since the 1920s. Art lovers will appreciate the plethora of downtown galleries, including the Center for Maine Contemporary Art. Home to the musical Hideaway Concert Series, Wiscasset also provides great opportunities to listen to top regional bands in an intimate venue.

Location : On the Sheepscot River in Midcoast, Maine
Top Attraction: Musical Hideaway Concert Series
Things to Do: Listen to live music, browse antique shops

On the shores of Long Lake, Naples' small but lively downtown stretches along Route 302. Visitors can browse the boutiques, admire the lake views, or enjoy a cone from one of Maine's most popular ice cream stands, The Naples Scoop. July 4th brings big crowds for the famous Naples Fourth of July Parade, featuring lively floats.

Nearby, walk the historic causeway over Brandy Pond or explore the Songbird Nature Center trails, surrounded by stunning fall foliage.

Location: Near Long Lake in western Maine
Top Attraction: Naples Fourth of July Parade
Things to Do: Browse shops, walk the lake causeway

This town on the Penobscot River contains a charming downtown full of 18th and 19th-century buildings. Stroll the brick sidewalks and visit shops stocked with work from local artisans.

Save time for the unique Bucksport Waterfront Walkway following the river, where there's a giant replica of a sea monster. Don't miss Fort Knox, an impressive 19th-century fort upriver providing scenic hiking trails with panoramic views.

Location : On the Penobscot River in coastal Maine
Top Attraction: Bucksport Waterfront Walkway
Things to Do: See the sea monster sculpture, explore Fort Knox

Surrounded by mountains on the Carrabassett River, Kingfield's small downtown consists of several blocks of historic one and two-story buildings. Pop into the galleries, boutiques, and cafés along Main Street, which serves some of the best lobster rolls in Maine , or listen to live Music at the restored 1914 Stanley Museum.

Nearby, hike Mount Abram trails winding past Kingfield Pond and waterfalls or bike the scenic Fifteen-Mile Stream trail system. In winter, Kingfield serves as the gateway to the Sugarloaf ski resort.

Location: In the mountains of western Maine
Top Attractions: Mount Abram, Fifteen Mile Stream trails
Things to Do: Hike, bike, ski at Sugarloaf

This lively seaside town overlooking Penobscot Bay contains an architecturally diverse downtown lined with independent shops, galleries, restaurants, and more. As one of the most beautiful downtown areas in Maine, visitors can enjoy harbor views along the waterfront path or find creative gifts at downtown boutiques like The Green Store or Mocean.

On summer Friday evenings, residents and visitors gather for free Music by the Bay concerts at Heritage Park on the bay's shores.

Top Attraction: Belfast Harbor waterfront
Things to Do: Stroll the harbor path, enjoy free summer concerts

RELATED: Where Mountains Meet Ocean: 10 Best Beaches In Maine To Visit

At the heart of the midcoast, Rockland's tree-lined streets filled with striking Greek Revival homes lead down to the always-bustling harbor. Stroll the acclaimed Farnsworth Art Museum and stop into the many galleries dotted throughout downtown.

Enjoy a lobster stew lunch on a seaside deck before browsing the boutiques and cafes in historic brick buildings along Main Street. Don't miss the beloved Maine Lighthouse Museum downtown, showcasing the state's iconic beacons.

Top Attractions: Farnsworth Art Museum, Maine Lighthouse Museum
Things to Do: Visit museums, art galleries, boutiques

With its picture-perfect harbor and pristine historic buildings, Camden is often considered one of New England's oldest towns to serve as a vacation destination. Visitors can indulge in the lively downtown's many local shops, renowned restaurants, and waterfront inns. Be sure to hike up Mt. Battie for stunning high views over the harbor and surrounding mountains dotted with the fiery colors of autumn.

Fall also brings foodies to the popular Camden International Film Festival downtown.

Top Attractions: Picturesque downtown, Mt. Battie
Things to Do: Hike Mt. Battie, shop downtown, attend the Camden International Film Festival

RELATED: These Are 10 Of The Most Beautiful Ocean Overlooks You Can Find In New England

On a granite peninsula jutting into the Atlantic, this seaside village contains a quaint downtown stretching down Main Street.

Browse the historic buildings' galleries, shops, and wooden boat showrooms before enjoying fresh seafood with harbor views. Visitors can also take a narrated boat tour into nearby islands like Isle au Haut or hop the mailboat ferry to Swan's Island for a scenic ride and day trip.

Location: Coastal village on a granite peninsula
Things to Do: Take boat tours, ride the mailboat ferry

With roots as a Revolutionary War site, Castine offers a glimpse into 18th-century history through its well-preserved downtown. Follow the walking tour to see standout examples of Colonial and Federal architecture. Enjoy the small-town pace browsing the shops and galleries, or take a break for a craft beer and lobster roll on a hillside deck overlooking the harbor.

Don't miss stopping by Dyces Head Lighthouse, a stocky conical tower and one of the few lighthouses open to the public in Maine.

Top Attraction: Well-preserved historic downtown
Things to Do: Take the walking tour, browse shops and galleries

10 Of The Most Beautiful Downtowns To Visit In Maine

IMAGES

5 fabulous things to do in Camden, Maine
9 Best Coastal Towns in Maine: A Route 1 Road Trip
10 of the Best Things to Do in Camden Maine
Best Spots In Downtown Camden, Maine
2024 BEST Things To Do In Camden Maine
I 10 migliori tour di Camden, Maine nel 2021 (con foto)

VIDEO

Old and New Camden New Jersey
📍Camden, Maine #coastalmaine #travel #roadtrip

COMMENTS

Camden Maine + surrounding areas
Answer 1 of 6: Will be staying in Camden, Maine for a couple of days before heading on to Bar Harbor. What other nearby towns (within an hour or so) are worth a visit? Open to anything.
2024 BEST Things To Do In Camden Maine
The town of Camden is the self-described Jewel of the Maine coast. Located in MidCoast Maine, Camden is a haven for ocean lovers, foodies, shoppers, and outdoor adventurers.. In the summer months, the population more than triples due to visitors and seasonal residents, many of whom reside in gorgeous ocean-view estates around the harbor.
21 Exciting Things to do in Camden, Maine (+ Hotels, Restaurants, Tours)
For families visiting Camden in the winter visit the home of the US National Toboggan Championships. Set on the eastern slope of Ragged Mountain is Camden Snow Bowl. This ski resort is perfect for families looking for fun things to do in Camden Maine with kids. Camden Snow Bowl offers skiing, tubing and toboggan rides.
Camden, Rockport & Lincolnville
The towns of Camden, Rockport and Lincolnville are located in the heart of coastal Maine along Penobscot Bay. Rockport and Camden have working harbors full of fishing boats, schooners and boat yards. These seaside towns have a vibrant artist community - Route 1 is lined with galleries and shops where you can peruse locally made arts and crafts.
10 Things To Do In Camden: Complete Guide To Maine's Hidden Small-Town Gem
Visitors can also find handmade crafts, plants, and flowers. This is a great place to sample local flavors and meet the area's farmers and artisans. Address: 116 Washington St, Camden, ME 04843 ...
36 Hours in Camden and Rockport, Maine (and Environs)
Despite a guest list boasting a king, president and Edna St. Vincent Millay, Whitehall (52 High Street, Camden) still manages to feel like a classic Maine summer home. Brightly updated in 2015 ...
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Camden (2024)
See way to experience (1) 4. High Street Historic District. 144. Historic Sites. Added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1989, Camden's official historic district comprises fifty-eight buildings on High Street between Main Street and Sherman Point Road.
Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Camden, Maine
Curtis Island Light. The Curtis Island Light is a lighthouse that was built in 1836 and is located on Curtis Island in Camden Harbor. It is still operational and is a popular spot for tourists to visit. You can take a boat tour to the island and climb to the top of the lighthouse for a stunning view of the harbor.
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Camden (Updated 2024)
High Street Historic District. 144. Historic Sites. Added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1989, Camden's official historic district comprises fifty-eight buildings on High Street between Main Street and Sherman Point Road. 5. Megunticook Lake. 127. Bodies of Water. By econshadley.
17 Top-Rated Things to Do in Camden, ME
24 Top-Rated Attractions & Places to Visit in Maine. 14 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Portland, ME. ... Updated Mar 23, 2023. One of Maine's most scenic coastal villages, Camden spreads around a harbor filled with pleasure craft and the tall masts of windjammers. Behind the town, Mt. Battie rises in wooded slopes to a rockbound summit.
15 Best Things to Do in Camden (Maine)
Below are 15 things to do in and around Camden, Maine. 1. Christmas by the Sea. Source: Christmas By the Sea / facebook. Christmas By The Sea. For visitors to Maine interested in a unique holiday experience, Camden's Christmas by the Sea celebration takes place every year during the first week of December.
How to Do Coastal Maine in 7 Days: Charming Camden
The first overnight location along this itinerary is Camden, Maine. Camden is a short drive up the Maine coast. Most of this drive is along the famous Atlantic Coast Highway (US Highway 1). Over the Coastal Maine in 7 Days itinerary, you will become very familiar with the Atlantic Coast Highway. If your flight arrival time allows, I recommend ...
10 of the Best Things to Do in Camden Maine
Hike or drive up Mount Battie. This small stone tower sits at the top of Mount Battie, where a former hotel once stood. At the top, visitors can see expansive views of Penobscot Bay. One of the most popular things to do in Camden ME is to hike or drive to the top of Mount Battie. The view of the town and harbor from this summit is spectacular.
The Best Things to Do in Camden, Maine
Hike Camden Hills State Park. Spend an afternoon at Barrett's Cove. Do some watersports at Laite Memorial Beach. See a show at the Camden Opera House. Take some photos at the Curtis House Overlook. Go to the Montessori playground. Go to a local festival. Try a round of mini golf. Ski with a sea view in winter.
Rockport & Camden
The walk binds together two of New England's most beautiful villages, Rockport and Camden. As one kind of loveliness slowly changes into another, the walk progresses the way a story does, from beginning to middle to end. Russell Avenue begins a few steps from a statue of Rockport's most famous citizen, a clever, beloved harbor seal named ...
How To Spend A Beautiful Weekend In Quaint Camden, Maine
5. Barrett's Cove At Megunticook Lake. Barrett's Cove at Megunticook Lake is a sandy beach with lake swimming, uncrowded shores, and spectacular views of the Camden Hills. Bring your lunch and enjoy the public outdoor grills and picnic tables while feasting your eyes on Mother Nature's boundless beauty.
8 Fun Things to Do in Camden, Maine
Best Time to Visit Camden, Maine. Winter. Camden is a perfect place for a winter getaway if you want to ski and snowboard while being by the ocean. Camden is home to the Camden Snow Bowl and has 15 ski trails on 105 acres. If you enjoy winter hiking, Camden offers many trails for snowshoeing.
12 Most Beautiful Towns In Maine You Should Visit
Camden: Experience ocean views, sunset cruises, and charming shops and eateries in this beautiful mid-coast town in Maine. Greenville: Surround yourself with forests, mountains, and lakes while ...
17 Cool Things to Do in Camden, Maine
The beautiful seaside town of Camden, Maine is one of Vacationland's best-kept secrets. Located on Highway 1 in the more remote reaches of Midcoast Maine, about an hour and a half drive from Acadia National Park, Camden is worthy of a weekend getaway or a stop on a coastal Maine road trip.. With typical New England architecture, fantastic shopping and art galleries, and a state park with ...
Things to Do in Camden, Maine
Address: 20 Barnestown Rd, Camden, ME 04843, United States. Check out other cities in Maine, check out our list of things to do in Rockland for a fun time in Maine. 9. Camden Harbor Cruises. You can explore the stunning Penobscot Bay coast on the "Lively Lady," a wooden boat docked in lovely Camden, Maine.
The 10 Best Things to Do in Camden
2024. 1. Mount Battie. 1,830. Mountains. Mount Battie and its hundred-year-old tower is the highest point of Camden Hills State Park. You can reach the summit by following a 1.2-mile winding trail through the forest, where you'll be treated…. See ways to experience (2) 2.
Top Camden Maine Sightseeing Attractions
View Camden ME info. Camden Hills State Park. A 5,700 acre park with hiking trails, oceanside picnic area and a 800 foot summit with sweeping views of Penobscot Bay. View Camden Hills info. Maiden's Cliff. For amazing views visit Maiden's Cliff—a giant rock outcropping that rises 800 feet from Megunticook Lake.
THE 30 BEST Places to Visit in Camden (UPDATED 2024)
A recommended beach area in Camden known for swimming and hiking. 11. Camden Opera House. 19. Theatres. Historic downtown venue presents live music, films, theater, dance and more, year-round. Originally opened in 1894 and restored to Victorian glory a hundred years later, the Camden Opera House is …. 12.
28 Best Things to Do in Camden Maine This Year
Located in Mid-Coast Maine, Camden is a picturesque seaside town where the mountains meet the sea, providing stunning views of Mount Battie and Penobscot Bay. ... For another cost-free outing, visit the Children's Chapel near Aldermere Farm in Rockport. This outdoor chapel is a site for baptisms, memorials, weddings, and other events but is ...
10 Least-Crowded, But Still Scenic Places To Visit In New England
Camden, Maine Less known compared to Bar Harbor and Portland, Camden is Maine's hidden small-town gem with plenty of things to do. But with just 3,713 residents, this quaint town offers a lot for ...
2 Southern Maine Towns To Visit For The Scenery And The Food
Ten miles south in the famous resort town of Kennebunk (separated by a bridge from even more famous Kennebunkport) The White Barn Inn & Spa, now part of Auberge Resorts Collection, has been a ...
10 Best Up-And-Coming US Towns
The picturesque town of Camden, located on the coast of the Atlantic, has many attributes that help to label it as one of the best up-and-coming towns in the United States. In addition to a steady and slowing increasing population of 5,000 residents, the economy remains strong and on the rise, bringing thousands of tourists every year.
Best tourist season yet, Camden, Maine
CAMDEN, Maine — Most see bumper-to-bumper traffic as a detriment, but for business owners up and down Maine's coast, scant parking, longer commutes, and packed roadways mean profit. For weeks, the streets of Camden have been busy leading many establishments to anticipate 2024 to be one of the most profitable yet.
Ossipee Valley Fair, Moxie Festival and more happening this weekend
Questions about your account? Our customer service team can be reached at [email protected] during business hours at (207) 791-6000.
10 Of The Most Beautiful Downtowns To Visit In Maine
Naples . On the shores of Long Lake, Naples' small but lively downtown stretches along Route 302. Visitors can browse the boutiques, admire the lake views, or enjoy a cone from one of Maine's most ...

Camden Maine Vacation Guide | Best Things to Do in Camden This Year

Getting to Know Camden Maine

Fascinating Facts About Camden Maine

FAQs About Camden Maine

What is there to do in Camden Maine?

When is a good time to visit Camden Maine?

What is special about Camden Maine?

Things to Do in Camden Maine

Tour Camden Harbor

Shop in Downtown Camden

Pay a Visit to Merryspring Nature Center

See a Performance at the Camden Opera House

Visit Camden Hills State Park

Explore Some of Maine’s Best Beaches

Tour Lighthouses Near Camden Maine

Attend Fun Events in Camden Maine

Experience Winter Activities at the Camden Snow Bowl

Great Places to Eat in Camden Maine

Natalie’s at Camden Harbour Inn

The Waterfront Restaurant

Fresh & Co

Peter Ott’s on the Water

Camden House of Pizza

River Ducks Ice Cream

The View at 16 Bay View

Franny’s Bistro

Owl & Turtle Bookshop

Zoot Coffee

The Best Places to Stay in Camden Maine

Other Nearby Attractions You Need to See

Start Planning Your Trip to Camden Maine Today

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Camden, Rockport & Lincolnville

Things to Do in Camden, Rockport and Lincolnville

Where to Stay in Camden, Rockport and Lincolnville

Restaurants in Camden, Rockport and Lincolnville

Businesses & Organizations

Carol L. Douglas Studio

Moon Dog Excursions

Schooner Heron

Camden International Film Festival

Maine Media Workshops

Bay Chamber Concerts and Music School

Related Articles

36 Hours in Camden and Rockport, Maine (and Environs)

36 Hours in Camden and Rockport, Maine

2) 4 p.m. Lay of the land

3) 6 p.m. Local and fresh

4) 8 a.m. New spin on breakfast classics

5) 10 a.m. D.I.Y. cruise

6) 12 p.m. Locavore lunch

7) 2 p.m. California dreaming

8) 4 p.m. Summer cooking

52 Places to Go in 2019

9) 5 p.m. Saturday night out

10) 9 a.m. Local hangout

11) 12 p.m. Maine-inspired art

12) 2 p.m. Contemporary cool

Have a weekend to explore a destination? We’ve got the perfect travel itinerary.

17 Top-Rated Things to Do in Camden, ME

1. Watch the Ships in Camden Harbor

More on Maine

15 Best Things to Do in Camden (Maine)

1. Christmas by the Sea

2. U.S. National Toboggan Championships

3. North Atlantic Blues Festival

4. Project Puffin Visitor Center

5. Camden Harbor Arts & Crafts Show

6. Barrett’s Cove Park

7. Maine Antiques Festival

8. Maine Lobster Festival

9. Camden Windjammer Festival

10. Aldemere Farm

11. Center for Maine Contemporary Art

12. Coastal Children’s Museum

13. Matthews Museum of Maine Heritage

14. Farnsworth Art Museum

15. Maine Lighthouse Museum

15 Best Things to Do in Camden (Maine):

How to Do Coastal Maine in 7 Days: Charming Camden