Lakehouse Guidebook
Sightseeing
Before we get into why we love this lake, we’d like to make one clarification. There are SO MANY wonderful lakes in Maine. In fact, choosing just one is nearly impossible. But, you’d be surprised by how many have never seen it or (gasp!) have never even heard of it! It might be due to its hard-to-pronounce name, but we felt it deserved a little extra-special attention and love. We think Lake Cobbosseecontee (or simply “Cobbossee”) will rank as one of your new favorites.
What it lacks in pronounce-ability, it makes up for in beauty and fun. The lake, with a 62-mile shore length, is marked by a multitude of coves and inlets. While the lake itself is wonderful for recreation, these small nooks and crannies add to the fun and adventure.
Even more fun are the 20 or so islands located throughout the area.
A SUP or kayak would be a great way to explore the ins and outs of the natural areas that exist here.
The area is also home to tons of Maine wildlife. In fact, it's a great fishing area. Those with a boat will enjoy access to the annual stocking of brown trout. Also making a home in the lake are largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, brook trout, splake, white perch, pickerel, and redbreasted sunfish. In fact, Cobbosseecontee Lake is known as one of the top bass-fishing lakes in America.
A visit to the lake also means access to the only inland waters lighthouse in Maine that is still actively used today. The Ladies Delight Light not only has a great name, but also marks the northern edge of a rocky underwater reef running down the middle of the lake.
The lighthouse was built in 1908 by architect Frank Jacques Morse. It is currently under the ownership and care of the Cobbosseecontee Yacht Club, one of the oldest continually operating inland yacht clubs in the US.
Much of the land around the lake is protected by The Kennebec Land Trust, who works with landowners and communities to conserve the forests, shorelands, fields, and wildlife that define central Maine.
It's through KLT that much of the beauty of the lake and surrounding area is possible. Hodgdon Island Preserve is one of our favorite areas to explore around the lake and offers access to trails, shoreline and forest.
Lake Cobbosseecontee can be accessed from many different towns. Among them are Litchfield, Manchester, Monmouth, West Gardiner, and Winthrop. There is a public boat ramp in on the southwest shore of the lake in East Monmouth.
Cobbosseecontee Lake
Before we get into why we love this lake, we’d like to make one clarification. There are SO MANY wonderful lakes in Maine. In fact, choosing just one is nearly impossible. But, you’d be surprised by how many have never seen it or (gasp!) have never even heard of it! It might be due to its hard-to-pronounce name, but we felt it deserved a little extra-special attention and love. We think Lake Cobbosseecontee (or simply “Cobbossee”) will rank as one of your new favorites.
What it lacks in pronounce-ability, it makes up for in beauty and fun. The lake, with a 62-mile shore length, is marked by a multitude of coves and inlets. While the lake itself is wonderful for recreation, these small nooks and crannies add to the fun and adventure.
Even more fun are the 20 or so islands located throughout the area.
A SUP or kayak would be a great way to explore the ins and outs of the natural areas that exist here.
The area is also home to tons of Maine wildlife. In fact, it's a great fishing area. Those with a boat will enjoy access to the annual stocking of brown trout. Also making a home in the lake are largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, brook trout, splake, white perch, pickerel, and redbreasted sunfish. In fact, Cobbosseecontee Lake is known as one of the top bass-fishing lakes in America.
A visit to the lake also means access to the only inland waters lighthouse in Maine that is still actively used today. The Ladies Delight Light not only has a great name, but also marks the northern edge of a rocky underwater reef running down the middle of the lake.
The lighthouse was built in 1908 by architect Frank Jacques Morse. It is currently under the ownership and care of the Cobbosseecontee Yacht Club, one of the oldest continually operating inland yacht clubs in the US.
Much of the land around the lake is protected by The Kennebec Land Trust, who works with landowners and communities to conserve the forests, shorelands, fields, and wildlife that define central Maine.
It's through KLT that much of the beauty of the lake and surrounding area is possible. Hodgdon Island Preserve is one of our favorite areas to explore around the lake and offers access to trails, shoreline and forest.
Lake Cobbosseecontee can be accessed from many different towns. Among them are Litchfield, Manchester, Monmouth, West Gardiner, and Winthrop. There is a public boat ramp in on the southwest shore of the lake in East Monmouth.
Neighborhoods
Hallowell is a historic village near Augusta, Maine’s capital, that sits on the banks of the Kennebec River. Though small, Hallowell is big on charm and character. Gorgeous 18th and 19th century architecture is found throughout town – many of which are on the National Register of Historic Places – and Water Street is lined with some of the best shops and restaurants in the region.
Things to Do in Hallowell
Hallowell is well known for its artistic flair and along Water Street you’ll find art everywhere including the Harlow Gallery with exhibits of local artists, and Hallowell Clay Works, offering classes and workshops, so you, too, can be a Hallowell artist. The Gaslight Theater is Maine’s oldest continuously operating theater with plays ranging from Tennessee Williams to Agatha Christie.
The charming Hubbard Free Library is in the oldest library building in Maine still serving its original function and it was built in the 1800s to look like an old English country church.
If shopping is your delight, Hallowell’s Water Street is the place to be. Famous for antiques, Hallowell has an incredible selection. The largest store is the Hallowell Antique Mall and Brass & Friends is jammed with unique finds. For a true old-fashioned candy store, Scrummy Afters will have your mouth watering.
Augusta is only a mile away and a fun route to get there is along the Kennebec River Rail Trail, which brings you right to Capitol Park. Or head south towards Gardiner for a beautiful walk or bike ride along the Kennebec.
Sure, the waterfront is fun. But to truly experience this great city, you need to get out of the hustle and bustle and get lost at one of the many local nature attractions. One of Maine’s natural treasures is the city’s Vaughan’s Woods, fondly known as Hobbit Land. For decades locals have called it the best place to go hiking. The trails are unmarked but easy to follow with wide, groomed walkways. The main trail passes the Vaughan Brook overlooking several waterfalls. The enchanting granite block bridges provide a picture-perfect view of the falls up to the scenic Cascade Pond. Dogs are not only allowed but encouraged. For easy access to the woods, park at Hall-Dale High School on Maple Street and follow the trail to the left of the tennis courts. Other natural sights include the Kennebec River Rail Trail and the Waterfront. Stroll along the river and take in the scenery. Local bands often perform at the bandstand on the water, too.
Hallowell enjoys celebrating, too. Fun, family events are held throughout the year, like the popular Old Hallowell Day with a parade and fireworks.
32 locals recommend
Hallowell
Hallowell is a historic village near Augusta, Maine’s capital, that sits on the banks of the Kennebec River. Though small, Hallowell is big on charm and character. Gorgeous 18th and 19th century architecture is found throughout town – many of which are on the National Register of Historic Places – and Water Street is lined with some of the best shops and restaurants in the region.
Things to Do in Hallowell
Hallowell is well known for its artistic flair and along Water Street you’ll find art everywhere including the Harlow Gallery with exhibits of local artists, and Hallowell Clay Works, offering classes and workshops, so you, too, can be a Hallowell artist. The Gaslight Theater is Maine’s oldest continuously operating theater with plays ranging from Tennessee Williams to Agatha Christie.
The charming Hubbard Free Library is in the oldest library building in Maine still serving its original function and it was built in the 1800s to look like an old English country church.
If shopping is your delight, Hallowell’s Water Street is the place to be. Famous for antiques, Hallowell has an incredible selection. The largest store is the Hallowell Antique Mall and Brass & Friends is jammed with unique finds. For a true old-fashioned candy store, Scrummy Afters will have your mouth watering.
Augusta is only a mile away and a fun route to get there is along the Kennebec River Rail Trail, which brings you right to Capitol Park. Or head south towards Gardiner for a beautiful walk or bike ride along the Kennebec.
Sure, the waterfront is fun. But to truly experience this great city, you need to get out of the hustle and bustle and get lost at one of the many local nature attractions. One of Maine’s natural treasures is the city’s Vaughan’s Woods, fondly known as Hobbit Land. For decades locals have called it the best place to go hiking. The trails are unmarked but easy to follow with wide, groomed walkways. The main trail passes the Vaughan Brook overlooking several waterfalls. The enchanting granite block bridges provide a picture-perfect view of the falls up to the scenic Cascade Pond. Dogs are not only allowed but encouraged. For easy access to the woods, park at Hall-Dale High School on Maple Street and follow the trail to the left of the tennis courts. Other natural sights include the Kennebec River Rail Trail and the Waterfront. Stroll along the river and take in the scenery. Local bands often perform at the bandstand on the water, too.
Hallowell enjoys celebrating, too. Fun, family events are held throughout the year, like the popular Old Hallowell Day with a parade and fireworks.
The town of Freeport Maine is best known for outlet stores and LL Bean. It was voted the "Best Weekend of Shopping in New England" by Yankee Magazine Readers for the second year in a row. Beyond being a shopper's paradise, the town of Freeport is also known as The Birthplace of Maine. Colonists used to gather for meetings at Jameson Tavern, an establishment that is still active in Freeport today, to plot their separation from Massachusetts in 1820. Many historical buildings are still standing in Freeport thanks to the local historical society, including many original homes, schools and churches. In fact, the town is so dedicated to preserving their historical buildings that when a McDonald's wanted to open up on one of the properties, it was only allowed to do so if it kept the original building preserving the unique New England feel.
1. Freeport Historical Society
The Historical Society celebrates its 50th year in 2019. During those years, it has been very active in producing an inventory of valuable historic buildings and districts.
The society’s headquarters is at Harrington House, which was built by a merchant by that name in 1830. Initially, it was built on a 14-acre parcel of land. It changed hands several times over the years until it became the home of the society, whose tireless work has created an impressive record of Freeport’s history
2. Pettengill Farm
This 19th-century saltwater farm, owned by the Historical Society, covers 140 acres on the Harraseeket estuary. The terrain varies, from salt marsh to orchards – as well as fields and woods.
The farm has never had plumbing or central heating even though Mildred Pettengill lived there until 1970, five years before it was donated to the Society.
The flora is impressive, ranging from lilacs and roses to hollyhocks and dahlias. Inside, there are a number of interesting etchings of ships and marine life.
3. Casco Castle
South Freeport Village was known for its shipbuilding years ago; it is the site where the tower of Casco Castle still stands. Accessible by land and sea, in the 19th century, that meant the railroad or steamboat. Locals used horses, buggies and sleighs.
Sitting in a prominent position overlooking the bay, the tower – which measures 100 feet high – was built by a local man, Benjamin Franklin Dunning. It was quite a task to get the stones for the construction up the steep hill, from where the views across the bay are quite stunning.
4. Winslow Park
This park is named after the Winslow Family, who first settled in Maine at the beginning of the 18th century. The park is a great place for a host of activities on land and sea.
Numerous trails take you to stunning viewpoints of the bay, harbor and Casco Castle. There is an extensive camping area and families can book to stay here overnight. You can enjoy a nice stretch of beach, go kayaking, and eat a picnic; there are shelters available just in case it rains.
It is possible to book for a special occasion, and in the summertime, there are regular concerts.
5. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park & Center
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park & Center
This parcel of land, covering more than 200 acres, was donated to Freeport 50 years ago. It is on a peninsula between Casco and the Harraseeket River. You will be just five minutes from the heart of Freeport but you wouldn’t know it, such is the diversity of the terrain
Pine and hemlock cover much of it, while there is also the salt marsh estuary and rocky shoreline. You will enjoy nature walks in the park and may catch sight of ospreys, who nest on nearby Goggin Island in the summer before heading to South America.
6. Bradbury Mountain State Park
Although this mountain is just short of 500 feet high, you will get some lovely views of Casco Bay from the summit. The colors in the fall are exceptional.
Over 20 miles of trails attract hikers, bikers and horse riders, while families will find camping facilities and a playground for kids.
This was one of the early parks in Maine; as you walk, you will see reminders of the region’s past, as well as a lovely range of flora – including the rare orchid. Please resist the temptation to pick one.
7. Desert of Maine
This natural phenomenon is a 40-acre area of glacial silt surrounded by vegetation. It is not a true desert and it receives plenty of rainfall.
It has developed as a tourist attraction, offering tours with a guide and a barn museum. Kids can hunt their own gemstones for an extra charge; a great souvenir of your visit if you are successful.
There are camping facilities and you can have a go at disc golf from early May until winter, with campers given morning priority.
8. Shopping & L.L. Bean Flagship Store
World-famous L.L. Bean flagship store is located right in the heart of Freeport, and takes hours to explore from ground to top floor. Leon Leonwood Bean started LL Bean in 1912 with a simple motto and guarantee that every customer be 100% satisfied with their purchase or they could return or exchange it at any time, a principle they still hold to a century later. L.L. Beach is the premier outdoor apparel and equipment store in the country, celebrating over 100 years of business. They have everything for all your adventure needs, including tents, sleeping bags, kayaks and travel gear, plus ski equipment, clothing and their world-famous Bean boots. L.L. Bean has also launched their Outdoor Discovery Schools, providing instruction and guided lessons in outdoor sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, cross-country skiing, archery and snowshoeing. The L.L. Bean flagship store is open 24/7, 365 days a year for your convenience. There are also LL Bean Outlets stores in Freeport - for bargains on Bean shoes, clothes and camping gear.
Among the many things to do, Freeport Outlet shopping is also popular, with over 170 name brand retailers offering discounted options. Brand name stores include Banana Republic, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike and Coach. Freeport is also home to some local shops featuring handcrafted jewelry, home decor, and specialty foods and treats. Chowder cafes and seafood restaurants line the Main Street in downtown Freeport, and on the Freeport waterfront you will find classic clam shacks and lobster pounds serving fresh Maine lobster rolls with a water view
9. Leon Gorman Park
This pleasant park close to the center of Freeport was donated to the town by LL Bean and named after the store founder’s grandson. It is a popular place to take a lunch break from work.
Covering just eight acres, within the park, you will find a picnic pavilion as well as outdoor picnic facilities. There is a short walking trail, a grassy area, and a small ice-skating area. Dogs on a leash are welcome, but part of the trail is steep so not suitable for biking.
10. Maine Audubon – Mast Landing Sanctuary
The primary aim of all Audubon sites is to provide a natural refuge for wildlife. That said, this sanctuary on the Harraseeket Estuary is open to the public, who can enjoy its trails as well as the wildlife.
As well as a stream and a salt marsh, there are forests of white pine and hemlock, fields and orchards. In the summer, it is a popular place for hikers, while during winter, people enjoy cross-country skiing.
Birdwatchers can expect to see a range of birds, many migratory, while resident mammals include minks, porcupines, coyotes, and raccoons.
11. Porterfield Cider
In recent years, an old farm dating back to 1890 has been revived and repurposed to produce cider. 117 acres of fields and gardens, woodland trails, and orchards are attracting visitors in numbers.
There is locally grown produce on sale seasonally, but it is the cider that has captured the imagination. You can sit with glass in hand and eat local food, typically cheeses and bread.
You can rent the farmhouse if you wish; it has been upgraded after years of decay.
12. Cruising the Bay
If you are in Freeport, you must take a cruise out into the Atlantic. There are times of the year when that is not practical, but on a fine day, go for it.
A range of tours is available; if you want the thrill of deep-sea fishing, that is also an option. You cannot be guaranteed a catch but it is fun.
The coastline is scenic and you will get a different perspective from the sea. You may enjoy a lobstering tour, go in search of Atlantic Seals, or visit Eagle Island State Park.
13. Hedgehog Mountain Trail
This little-known trail on 196 acres is well-maintained and ideal for a family day out. It is open all year round, with snowshoes or skis needed in the winter. Otherwise, you can hike or bike.
Hedgehog Mountain is the high point of Freeport; the trail takes you through pine and hemlock forests as well as over and around old stone walls. You can take your dog with you on a leash. Parking is adjacent, so this trail shouldn’t be ‘’little-known’’ much longer.
14. Maine Beer Company
The State of Maine is known for its craft beer, and many of the breweries, including this one, are more than happy to welcome visitors who want to sample their range of brews.
The brewery has been a great success, so plans for expansion are underway. You can expect to sample distinctly different IPAs, lagers, pale ale, and stout. Snacks are available if you want them.
15. Coastal Highway US 1
The north-south route from Maine down to New England and beyond follows the coastline. While you may not want to spend too much time in your car, it is worth driving a stretch of US 1, where you will pass lovely old villages and historic houses, as well as having spectacular sea views.
202 locals recommend
Freeport
The town of Freeport Maine is best known for outlet stores and LL Bean. It was voted the "Best Weekend of Shopping in New England" by Yankee Magazine Readers for the second year in a row. Beyond being a shopper's paradise, the town of Freeport is also known as The Birthplace of Maine. Colonists used to gather for meetings at Jameson Tavern, an establishment that is still active in Freeport today, to plot their separation from Massachusetts in 1820. Many historical buildings are still standing in Freeport thanks to the local historical society, including many original homes, schools and churches. In fact, the town is so dedicated to preserving their historical buildings that when a McDonald's wanted to open up on one of the properties, it was only allowed to do so if it kept the original building preserving the unique New England feel.
1. Freeport Historical Society
The Historical Society celebrates its 50th year in 2019. During those years, it has been very active in producing an inventory of valuable historic buildings and districts.
The society’s headquarters is at Harrington House, which was built by a merchant by that name in 1830. Initially, it was built on a 14-acre parcel of land. It changed hands several times over the years until it became the home of the society, whose tireless work has created an impressive record of Freeport’s history
2. Pettengill Farm
This 19th-century saltwater farm, owned by the Historical Society, covers 140 acres on the Harraseeket estuary. The terrain varies, from salt marsh to orchards – as well as fields and woods.
The farm has never had plumbing or central heating even though Mildred Pettengill lived there until 1970, five years before it was donated to the Society.
The flora is impressive, ranging from lilacs and roses to hollyhocks and dahlias. Inside, there are a number of interesting etchings of ships and marine life.
3. Casco Castle
South Freeport Village was known for its shipbuilding years ago; it is the site where the tower of Casco Castle still stands. Accessible by land and sea, in the 19th century, that meant the railroad or steamboat. Locals used horses, buggies and sleighs.
Sitting in a prominent position overlooking the bay, the tower – which measures 100 feet high – was built by a local man, Benjamin Franklin Dunning. It was quite a task to get the stones for the construction up the steep hill, from where the views across the bay are quite stunning.
4. Winslow Park
This park is named after the Winslow Family, who first settled in Maine at the beginning of the 18th century. The park is a great place for a host of activities on land and sea.
Numerous trails take you to stunning viewpoints of the bay, harbor and Casco Castle. There is an extensive camping area and families can book to stay here overnight. You can enjoy a nice stretch of beach, go kayaking, and eat a picnic; there are shelters available just in case it rains.
It is possible to book for a special occasion, and in the summertime, there are regular concerts.
5. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park & Center
Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park & Center
This parcel of land, covering more than 200 acres, was donated to Freeport 50 years ago. It is on a peninsula between Casco and the Harraseeket River. You will be just five minutes from the heart of Freeport but you wouldn’t know it, such is the diversity of the terrain
Pine and hemlock cover much of it, while there is also the salt marsh estuary and rocky shoreline. You will enjoy nature walks in the park and may catch sight of ospreys, who nest on nearby Goggin Island in the summer before heading to South America.
6. Bradbury Mountain State Park
Although this mountain is just short of 500 feet high, you will get some lovely views of Casco Bay from the summit. The colors in the fall are exceptional.
Over 20 miles of trails attract hikers, bikers and horse riders, while families will find camping facilities and a playground for kids.
This was one of the early parks in Maine; as you walk, you will see reminders of the region’s past, as well as a lovely range of flora – including the rare orchid. Please resist the temptation to pick one.
7. Desert of Maine
This natural phenomenon is a 40-acre area of glacial silt surrounded by vegetation. It is not a true desert and it receives plenty of rainfall.
It has developed as a tourist attraction, offering tours with a guide and a barn museum. Kids can hunt their own gemstones for an extra charge; a great souvenir of your visit if you are successful.
There are camping facilities and you can have a go at disc golf from early May until winter, with campers given morning priority.
8. Shopping & L.L. Bean Flagship Store
World-famous L.L. Bean flagship store is located right in the heart of Freeport, and takes hours to explore from ground to top floor. Leon Leonwood Bean started LL Bean in 1912 with a simple motto and guarantee that every customer be 100% satisfied with their purchase or they could return or exchange it at any time, a principle they still hold to a century later. L.L. Beach is the premier outdoor apparel and equipment store in the country, celebrating over 100 years of business. They have everything for all your adventure needs, including tents, sleeping bags, kayaks and travel gear, plus ski equipment, clothing and their world-famous Bean boots. L.L. Bean has also launched their Outdoor Discovery Schools, providing instruction and guided lessons in outdoor sports like kayaking, paddle boarding, cross-country skiing, archery and snowshoeing. The L.L. Bean flagship store is open 24/7, 365 days a year for your convenience. There are also LL Bean Outlets stores in Freeport - for bargains on Bean shoes, clothes and camping gear.
Among the many things to do, Freeport Outlet shopping is also popular, with over 170 name brand retailers offering discounted options. Brand name stores include Banana Republic, Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Nike and Coach. Freeport is also home to some local shops featuring handcrafted jewelry, home decor, and specialty foods and treats. Chowder cafes and seafood restaurants line the Main Street in downtown Freeport, and on the Freeport waterfront you will find classic clam shacks and lobster pounds serving fresh Maine lobster rolls with a water view
9. Leon Gorman Park
This pleasant park close to the center of Freeport was donated to the town by LL Bean and named after the store founder’s grandson. It is a popular place to take a lunch break from work.
Covering just eight acres, within the park, you will find a picnic pavilion as well as outdoor picnic facilities. There is a short walking trail, a grassy area, and a small ice-skating area. Dogs on a leash are welcome, but part of the trail is steep so not suitable for biking.
10. Maine Audubon – Mast Landing Sanctuary
The primary aim of all Audubon sites is to provide a natural refuge for wildlife. That said, this sanctuary on the Harraseeket Estuary is open to the public, who can enjoy its trails as well as the wildlife.
As well as a stream and a salt marsh, there are forests of white pine and hemlock, fields and orchards. In the summer, it is a popular place for hikers, while during winter, people enjoy cross-country skiing.
Birdwatchers can expect to see a range of birds, many migratory, while resident mammals include minks, porcupines, coyotes, and raccoons.
11. Porterfield Cider
In recent years, an old farm dating back to 1890 has been revived and repurposed to produce cider. 117 acres of fields and gardens, woodland trails, and orchards are attracting visitors in numbers.
There is locally grown produce on sale seasonally, but it is the cider that has captured the imagination. You can sit with glass in hand and eat local food, typically cheeses and bread.
You can rent the farmhouse if you wish; it has been upgraded after years of decay.
12. Cruising the Bay
If you are in Freeport, you must take a cruise out into the Atlantic. There are times of the year when that is not practical, but on a fine day, go for it.
A range of tours is available; if you want the thrill of deep-sea fishing, that is also an option. You cannot be guaranteed a catch but it is fun.
The coastline is scenic and you will get a different perspective from the sea. You may enjoy a lobstering tour, go in search of Atlantic Seals, or visit Eagle Island State Park.
13. Hedgehog Mountain Trail
This little-known trail on 196 acres is well-maintained and ideal for a family day out. It is open all year round, with snowshoes or skis needed in the winter. Otherwise, you can hike or bike.
Hedgehog Mountain is the high point of Freeport; the trail takes you through pine and hemlock forests as well as over and around old stone walls. You can take your dog with you on a leash. Parking is adjacent, so this trail shouldn’t be ‘’little-known’’ much longer.
14. Maine Beer Company
The State of Maine is known for its craft beer, and many of the breweries, including this one, are more than happy to welcome visitors who want to sample their range of brews.
The brewery has been a great success, so plans for expansion are underway. You can expect to sample distinctly different IPAs, lagers, pale ale, and stout. Snacks are available if you want them.
15. Coastal Highway US 1
The north-south route from Maine down to New England and beyond follows the coastline. While you may not want to spend too much time in your car, it is worth driving a stretch of US 1, where you will pass lovely old villages and historic houses, as well as having spectacular sea views.
Gardiner, Maine was once a monarch of the inland waters. As merchants constructed prosperous mills and factories on tumbling Cobbossee Stream, they shipped their newly made goods out from stores and warehouses that lined the banks of the Kennebec River. Soon, it was the busiest port on the Kennebec. Water Street was a glittering wonder of elaborate brick and stone businesses and the hills above glowed with the mansions of rich traders and manufacturers.
Things to Do in Gardiner
Gardiner’s manufacturing heyday is over, the mills mostly shuttered and gone. Today, its grand brick downtown – manifested on Water Street – is a national historic district. Gardiner is also a Designated Main Street community, acknowledging its work in revitalizing its downtown. Stroll down the brick-lined streets and enjoy a bevy of new shops, restaurants, pubs and stores. Drop into the elaborate Gardiner Public Library – at the end of Water Street – and enjoy the stained-glass windows and soaring ceilings. Or climb up from the river basin to Gardiner’s Common and see the stern Christ Church, built in 1820 and the first ‘Gothic’ style church built in New England. For more immersive historical tours, check out Gardiner’s Historic Walking Trail or the route that highlights the life of Edwin Arlington Robinson, a Gardiner native and Pulitzer-prize winning poet.
If you’re in the mood for more walking, stroll the Kennebec River Rail Trail, a 6.5-mile route that follows the rail line and links Gardiner with Augusta. The trail is very popular with walkers, runners and cyclists. It crosses through the towns of Hallowell and Farmingdale and steers close to the Kennebec.
To enjoy the arts in Gardiner, step inside Johnson Hall, the state’s oldest opera house (opened in 1864). It holds performances in both the historic hall itself and at the city’s Waterfront Park during the summer. For visual art, visit the Artdogs Studios and Monkitree, two galleries on Water Street.
Gardiner offers plenty of ways to have fun. Each October, stop by downtown for the annual Swine and Stein Oktoberfest. There’s food, there’s beer (natch) and there’s music to celebrate autumn. Speaking of high spirits, Gardiner hosts Two Gramps Brewing on Water Street, featuring locally brewed beer, and Sebago Lake Distillery, makers of bespoke rum (call for information about tours).
Outside of the downtown in West Gardiner, you can see the newest work by Maine artisans at the Center for Maine Craft. It includes works by hundreds of crafters including baskets, ceramics, fiber, furniture, glass and jewelry.
7 locals recommend
Gardiner
Gardiner, Maine was once a monarch of the inland waters. As merchants constructed prosperous mills and factories on tumbling Cobbossee Stream, they shipped their newly made goods out from stores and warehouses that lined the banks of the Kennebec River. Soon, it was the busiest port on the Kennebec. Water Street was a glittering wonder of elaborate brick and stone businesses and the hills above glowed with the mansions of rich traders and manufacturers.
Things to Do in Gardiner
Gardiner’s manufacturing heyday is over, the mills mostly shuttered and gone. Today, its grand brick downtown – manifested on Water Street – is a national historic district. Gardiner is also a Designated Main Street community, acknowledging its work in revitalizing its downtown. Stroll down the brick-lined streets and enjoy a bevy of new shops, restaurants, pubs and stores. Drop into the elaborate Gardiner Public Library – at the end of Water Street – and enjoy the stained-glass windows and soaring ceilings. Or climb up from the river basin to Gardiner’s Common and see the stern Christ Church, built in 1820 and the first ‘Gothic’ style church built in New England. For more immersive historical tours, check out Gardiner’s Historic Walking Trail or the route that highlights the life of Edwin Arlington Robinson, a Gardiner native and Pulitzer-prize winning poet.
If you’re in the mood for more walking, stroll the Kennebec River Rail Trail, a 6.5-mile route that follows the rail line and links Gardiner with Augusta. The trail is very popular with walkers, runners and cyclists. It crosses through the towns of Hallowell and Farmingdale and steers close to the Kennebec.
To enjoy the arts in Gardiner, step inside Johnson Hall, the state’s oldest opera house (opened in 1864). It holds performances in both the historic hall itself and at the city’s Waterfront Park during the summer. For visual art, visit the Artdogs Studios and Monkitree, two galleries on Water Street.
Gardiner offers plenty of ways to have fun. Each October, stop by downtown for the annual Swine and Stein Oktoberfest. There’s food, there’s beer (natch) and there’s music to celebrate autumn. Speaking of high spirits, Gardiner hosts Two Gramps Brewing on Water Street, featuring locally brewed beer, and Sebago Lake Distillery, makers of bespoke rum (call for information about tours).
Outside of the downtown in West Gardiner, you can see the newest work by Maine artisans at the Center for Maine Craft. It includes works by hundreds of crafters including baskets, ceramics, fiber, furniture, glass and jewelry.