For many of our guests, their first visit to Maine is to attend a wedding at French’s Point. Some lucky guests are able to enjoy an extended stay here in Midcoast Maine. We’re blissfully far away from busy city life, which allows our guests to slow down, unwind, and spend a relaxing few days along the rocky coast of Maine.
Maine’s Midcoast stretches from the shipbuilding hub of Bath northward through the tourist hotspots of Camden and Rockland and on to the artsy enclave of Belfast, the closest you’ll come to “urban” in our neck of the woods. Heading further north from French’s Point, you’ll find Down East Maine, home to Bar Harbor and the wilds of Acadia National Park, which draws thousands of visitors from all over the world to Maine’s shores every year.
In our neighborhood, you’ll find lesser-known gems sometimes overlooked on the well-worn tourist path. The waters of Penobscot Bay, scattered with islands, historic lighthouses and sleepy harbors, first drew British explorers back in 1605. Their presence later prompted the construction of Fort Knox, a granite sentry overlooking the Penobscot River that remains open to visitors from May to November. Also on the site is the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory, a 42-story lookout that’s the highest of its kind in the world. The views of our region from its tower are simply unparalleled.
In town, you’ll discover Belfast’s distinctly tranquil atmosphere, as Route 1, the road linking almost the entirety of Maine’s coast, bypasses the eclectic downtown. Belfast’s industrial roots, combined with echoes of its back-to-the-lander past, have shaped a community where you can gallery-hop after a lunch of local fare at Chase’s Daily and learn about the area’s maritime history on a free walking tour.
I love to spend time outside with my dog, so walks along Sandy Point Beach are a favorite. I also love supporting local businesses, so shopping at our local Belfast Farmer’s Market for fresh and local products is a must. Any time I get the chance, I treat myself (and my dog) to ice cream at Wahl’s Dairy Port.
Some more of our favorite local spots:
There is so much to see and do in Midcoast Maine, you may have to plan a trip every year! Check out our Resource Guide to find more places to visit, spots to eat or excursions to enjoy.
Sarah Ripley
Operations Manager
Featured photo by Rebecca Arthurs Photography.