The 10 Friendliest Little Towns In Maine

Maine is home to fantastic small towns where the community spirit burns brighter than the beacon of Portland Head Light. In a state marked by its stunning wilderness and sparse population, the warmth of its residents shines through in these quaint locales, creating an inviting atmosphere that's as refreshing as the pine-scented air.

This guide goes beyond the typical tourist trails of Acadia and Portland to introduce you to the nine friendliest towns in Maine. From the annual Pumpkinfest in Damariscotta to the historic shipbuilding docks of Bath, these towns ensure every visitor departs with a sense of belonging and a desire to return.

Bar Harbor

Settled in 1763, Bar Harbor was originally named Eden and later renamed in 1918. A fire in 1947 destroyed buildings, influencing the town’s redesign and tourism approach. Research occurs at the College of the Atlantic, established in 1969. The local harbor supports fishing operations and ferry services, contributing to the economy. Visitors can explore archives at the Bar Harbor Historical Society.

In Bar Harbor, travelers can dine at The Reading Room Restaurant, which opens in March, offers panoramic views of Frenchman Bay, and specializes in seafood dishes. The Thirsty Whale Tavern is a local favorite for casual meals. For cultural experiences, the Abbe Museum provides insights into Native American history in Maine, specifically the Wabanaki tribes. Annual events include the Bar Harbor Music Festival, celebrating classical, opera, jazz, and new music. Agamont Park is a popular gathering spot offering views of the harbor and access to walking paths. For those interested in maritime history, the Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co. opens in early May and offers tours to see marine life and learn about the Gulf of Maine’s ecosystem.

Camden

Camden, positioned in Knox County along Penobscot Bay, was incorporated in 1791. The town flourished around shipbuilding and lime production in the 19th century, reflected in the preserved architecture. The Camden Public Library, established in 1928, features historical design by Parker Morse Hooper and landscape by the Olmsted Brothers. Unique to Camden, the annual U.S. National Toboggan Championships are held at the Camden Snow Bowl, attracting nationwide participants.

For food options, Long Grain serves Asian cuisine using local ingredients. The Camden Opera House, dating back to 1894, hosts live performances and events. Camden Hills State Park provides hiking trails with views of the bay and is a venue for the summer Climbing Festival. For sailing enthusiasts, Camden Yacht Club sponsors weekly regattas during the summer. Camden Harbor Park and Amphitheatre, designed by Fletcher Steele, hosts community gatherings and public performances.

Kennebunkport

Kennebunkport sits along the Atlantic Ocean, and was originally a shipbuilding and fishing village, it has evolved into a renowned tourist destination now, partly due to the summer home of President George H.W. Bush at Walker's Point. The Seashore Trolley Museum, established in 1939, holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest and largest museum of mass transit vehicles. Kennebunkport's Dock Square area preserves the charm of its historic maritime activities.

Visitors to Kennebunkport can dine at the nearby Clam Shack in Kennebunk, which is famous for its award-winning lobster rolls. Earth at Hidden Pond offers farm-to-table dining experiences in a rustic setting. Art enthusiasts visit the Maine Art Hill galleries for local art displays. Ocean Avenue extends scenic walking routes, and Gooch’s Beach offers leisure activities. Goose Rocks Beach attracts vistiros with its serene setting for sunset views.

Boothbay Harbor

Boothbay Harbor became a shipbuilding hub in the 1800s, with fishing and tourism later shaping its economy. A focal point of maritime heritage, Boothbay Harbor hosts the annual Windjammer Days, celebrating its seafaring history. The town's strategic location offers direct access to the Atlantic, making it a popular destination for boaters and seafood lovers.

Shannon's Unshelled provides locally sourced lobster in a casual setting. Ports of Italy offers authentic Italian cuisine, while the Opera House at Boothbay Harbor presents a variety of live performances, including concerts and plays. The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens, the largest in New England, display native flora and offer themed gardens and exhibitions. For maritime history enthusiasts, the Boothbay Railway Village and the Maine State Aquarium provide interactive experiences and educational opportunities. The footbridge spanning the harbor enhances pedestrian access and offers lovely views.

Damariscotta

Damariscotta's history dates back to ancient oyster shell middens along the riverbanks, signifying centuries of Native American habitation. The town name, derived from a Native American word meaning "river of little fish," reflects its enduring connection to the river that has shaped its culture and economy. Damariscotta is renowned for its 19th-century architecture and vibrant arts scene, hosting the annual Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta, which features giant pumpkin boat races.

In Damariscotta, you can dine at King Eider's Pub, known for its cozy atmosphere and local seafood, or enjoy a meal at the Damariscotta River Grill, which offers a selection of Maine-inspired dishes. The Maine Coast Book Shop and Cafe is a community hub for book lovers and coffee aficionados. For arts and culture, The Lincoln Theater presents a range of movies and live performances. The Skidompha Public Library, part of the community since the early 1900s, hosts author talks and educational programs. Visitors also frequent Round Top Ice Cream for its homemade flavors, a local favorite since 1924.

Blue Hill

Blue Hill's name originates from the blue hue observed on its granite hills by maritime travelers. Its economy historically centered around shipbuilding and granite quarrying, with cultural enrichment from its longstanding tradition of attracting artists and musicians. The town is also known for the Blue Hill Fair, an agricultural event that inspired elements of E.B. White’s "Charlotte's Web."

Experience local cuisine at Arborvine, known for its fine dining and regional ingredients, or enjoy casual fare at the Blue Hill Co-op Cafe, a spot popular for organic dishes and local produce. Art enthusiasts can explore the Jonathan Fisher House, which showcases the works of the town’s first settled minister and artist. The annual Blue Hill Bach Festival attracts classical music lovers. For outdoor activities, Blue Hill Mountain offers hiking trails with panoramic views of the peninsula. The Kollegewidgwok Yacht Club hosts sailing events and regattas, fostering a community spirit among boating enthusiasts. Additionally, the town’s local bookstores and libraries, like the Blue Hill Public Library, serve as cultural hubs.

Bethel

Bethel's culture is rich with stories of lumber and mills, which shaped its early economy. The town is positioned among the western Maine mountains, providing. The Bethel Historical Society, located in the 1821 O'Neil Robinson House, offers insights into the area's cultural heritage through exhibits and collections.

The Millbrook Tavern & Grille at The Bethel Inn Resort serves hearty New England fare with views of the golf course. For a unique local experience, the annual Mollyockett Day festival celebrates regional history with parades, crafts, and activities. The Gem Theater presents movies and live performances, adding a cultural touch to the town’s offerings. Additionally, visitors can enjoy homemade treats at DiCocoa’s Bakery & Cafe, a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

Rangeley

Originally a logging town, it transformed into a renowned fishing destination by the late 1800s, drawing visitors to its pristine lakes and streams renowned for trout and salmon. The town is part of the scenic Rangeley Lakes Region, encompassing six major lakes. The Rangeley Lakes Historical Society preserves the area's rich heritage, including its significance in the development of fly fishing.

Parkside & Main Restaurant is noted for its local cuisine, offering lakeside views that captivate visitors. The annual Rangeley Lakes Snowmobile Snodeo attracts winter sports enthusiasts with races and family activities. In summer, the Rangeley Friends of the Arts provides a cultural touch with live theater productions and concerts. The Wilhelm Reich Museum, the former home of the controversial scientist and psychiatrist, offers a unique glimpse into the history of psychoanalysis and biophysics.

Ogunquit

Ogunquit translates to "beautiful place by the sea" in the Abenaki language, a name reflecting its scenic charm. Originally a small fishing community, Ogunquit established itself as an artists' colony in the late 19th century, attracting painters who captured its rugged coastal beauty. The town officially separated from Wells in 1980 to preserve its unique identity. Today, it is known for its walkable village layout, expansive beaches like Ogunquit Beach, and the iconic Marginal Way, a picturesque cliff walk stretching over a mile from the downtown area to Perkins Cove.

Dining in Ogunquit offers a range of experiences, from the casual, beachfront vibe of The Lobster Shack to the refined atmosphere of Jonathan's Ogunquit, which features local seafood and live performances. Ogunquit Playhouse, a historic theater dating back to 1933, stages Broadway-quality shows with both local and visiting talent. The Ogunquit Museum of American Art showcases works from American artists with a focus on Maine-related pieces. Each October, the OgunquitFest offers a variety of events, including a costume parade, classic car show, and high heel dash, celebrating the town’s spirit.

This guide delves deep into the heart of Maine, beyond the well-trodden paths of Acadia and Portland's vibrant streets, to spotlight nine towns where hospitality reigns supreme. From the historic shipbuilding docks of Bath to the spirited Pumpkinfest in Damariscotta, these locales not only embody Maine's rich heritage and stunning landscapes but also exude a warm, welcoming spirit. Here, every handshake feels familiar, every smile tells a story, and each visit leaves a lasting impression of a community where visitors are treated as friends. These towns prove that in Maine, no matter how far you roam, you're never really a stranger.