6 Whimsical Towns to Visit in Maine

Maine, appropriately nicknamed the "Pine Tree State," is the northernmost of the New England states and celebrated for the natural beauty of its dense forests and rugged coastlines. Beyond its stunning landscapes, Maine is renowned for its fantastic collection of charming small towns that are rich in history and have a friendly yet independent spirit. Among these towns are six standout examples, each with a distinctive quirkiness, offering visitors a unique experience. From the fiberglass statue of a woodsman in Bangor to the Wedding Cake House in Kennebunk, these Maine destinations are both memorable and whimsical.

York

Famous suspension bridges like the Golden Gate Bridge and Brooklyn Bridge are large and grand structures, but the 75-foot-long “Wiggly Bridge” in York offers a whimsical twist. This narrow wooden landmark, considered the smallest suspension bridge in the world, earns its name by producing a delightfully disconcerting bounce and shimmy as you walk across it. After crossing into the Steedman Woods nature preserve, you can recover from any motion sickness with a serene stroll among the trees. With 17 acres of trails, waterside views, and wildlife, it is a dream destination for nature lovers. Back in town, this quintessential seaside resort town has plenty more to offer, including a zoo and arcades along York Beach, as well as charming shopping opportunities in historic York Village.

Bangor

Bangor proclaims itself as Paul Bunyan's birthplace, and it proudly displays a 31-foot-tall fiberglass statue of the mythical giant woodsman. This statue is a popular and kitschy photo op, but Bangor has another odd attraction if your sense of whimsy tends toward the macabre. The second floor of the Bangor Public Library displays the “Hannibal Hamlin Death Couch,” the item of furniture upon which President Lincoln’s first vice president passed away. Beyond these intriguing curiosities, Bangor offers the Hollywood Casino and Raceway and several outdoor goods retailers, including Dills and Alpenglow.

Kennebunk

While not as well-known as its neighbor, the summer resort hotspot Kennebunkport, the town of Kennebunk is an equally charming coastal community that offers endless opportunities for great photos. However, one standout feature in Kennebunk claims the unofficial title of Maine’s most photographed home: the Wedding Cake House. Actually named the Bourne House, this 1825 gem boasts elaborate Gothic-era architectural details that resemble intricate cake decorations. After taking several photos of this tasty-looking architectural marvel, satisfy your sweet tooth at the nearby Boulangerie bakery, which offers an array of delicious treats. One can also end the day at the Kennebunk House of Pizza, known for its quirky vibes and tasty pizza.

Mount Desert

Whatever your idea of whimsy may be, the town of Mount Desert has something for you. If quirky and kitschy photo ops are your thing, snap some pics of the Mount Desert Spring Water company’s inexplicable statues of the Blues Brothers. If you are more fascinated by whimsical natural wonders, make sure to visit Bubble Rock. This 14-ton granite boulder, a relic from retreating glaciers thousands of years ago, precariously balances on the edge of a cliff. Accessible via a moderately challenging 1-mile trail, Bubble Rock is located within Acadia National Park, just like the town of Mount Desert itself. For nature enthusiasts, Acadia National Parks’s 50,000 acres of wilderness are ideal for hiking, biking, snowmobiling, skiing, fishing, and more.

Columbia Falls

Maine’s state fruit, the wild blueberry, is nearly as iconic as its famous lobsters. So do not be afraid when you spot what looks like a giant blueberry rising from the ground along Highway 1 in Columbia Falls—you have arrived at Wild Blueberry Land. This whimsical 7-acre park is packed with blueberry-themed attractions and treats. Make time for a stroll through downtown Columbia Falls as well, where you can enjoy scenic views of the Pleasant River and explore historic landmarks like the 1820 Ruggles House and the 1849 Union Church.

Ellsworth

If you sometimes catch yourself yearning for the olden days before cell phones, a trip to the town of Ellsworth is a must. The Telephone Museum, nestled in a nondescript warehouse, boasts an impressive collection of landline phone relics, from rotary-dial phones to hand-crank models from a century ago. After immersing yourself in the history of telecommunication, spend an hour or two exploring the Big Chicken Barn, which is actually a gian, ramshackle antique shop. For a more run-of-the-mill experience in Ellsworth, consider some time in Acadia National Park, an abode of outdoor opportunities.

Wrapping Up

If you have a taste for oversized attractions like superhuman statues, mega blueberries, or wedding cakes that double as homes, Maine’s many whimsical small towns will surely tickle your fancy. From the Wiggly Bridge to Bubble Rock, with a Death Couch thrown in for good measure, Maine is full of distinctive experiences that make for unforgettable memories. While it is essential to explore Maine’s stunning natural landscapes, definitely carve out some time to enjoy its quirky and unique side as well.