Acadia and Bar Harbor historic attractions add interest to your Maine getaway
Downtown Ellsworth
Begin at Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce, High St.
Ellsworth, ME
Phone: 207-667-5584
Several of Ellsworth's downtown buildings are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. At the Chamber of Commerce, visitors can get a guide and map to the structures.
Eastport Historic District
Eastport, ME
Phone: 207-853-4644
Visitors to Eastport will enjoy walking past the dozens of 18th and 19th century structures, including many restored sea captains' homes.
First Congregational Church
Corner Church and State streets
Ellsworth, ME
Phone: 207-667-8321
One of Maine's most photogenic churches, visitors will enjoy this stunning example of early 19th century, Greek Revival architecture.
Fort O'Brien
Route 92
Machiasport, ME
Phone: 207-941-4014
Completed in 1775, the remains of this fort overlooks the site of the Revolutionary War's first naval battle.
Historic Town of Castine
Castine, ME
Phone: 207-326-8786
In the 17th century, the pilgrims established a trading post at Castine, which they managed from hundreds of miles away in Massachusetts. Though small, the town was considered so strategically important, that it changed possessors from French, Dutch, British, and Colonials in the time leading up to the American Revolution. Visitors to Castine will enjoy a bevvy of historic treats, including 100 historic spots in Castine, ruins of several forts, and homes that date back to the 18th century.
Maine Forest and Logging Museum
Government Road
Bradley, ME 04411
Phone: 207-581-2871
Open: Grounds open year-round; special events held in summer
The museum is dedicated to keeping alive the forest history of long ago for the present day citizens of Maine. The centerpiece of the museum is Leonard's Mills, a reconstructed logging and mill community of the 1790s. Programs feature volunteers in period dress demonstrating traditional skills and crafts. Events include living history days and summer programs. Group tours can be scheduled. Cost: Fee charged only for special events.
Paul Bunyon Monument
Main Street at Bass Park
Bangor, ME
Pays homage to lumbering's legendary hero.
Roosevelt Campobello International Park
Route 774, Campobello Island
Lubec, ME
Phone: 506-752-2922
Accessible by a bridge from the mainland, this was originally the summer home for President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Now a 2,600-acre park, visitors can see the home or hike on more than eight miles of trails.
Ruggles House
Columbia Falls, ME
Phone: 207-483-4637
A Federal style small mansion built in 1818, this historic home features fascinating woodcarvings, period furniture, and a very rare flying staircase. Open June 1-Oct. 15. A fee is charged.
St. Croix Island
Calais, ME
This island settlement was founded in 1604. It is also known as the International Historic Site, due to its proximity to New Brunswick in Canada.
The Barracks Museum
Washington Street
Eastport, ME 04631
Phone: 207-853-6630
Open: Late June-September, Tuesday-Saturday, 1-4 p.m.
Eastport was a prominent town during the Colonial era, and an overview of the town's history since then is chronicled at this museum.
The Veazie Railroad
Veazie, ME
Built in 1836, this was the first railroad in Maine, and it ran on wooden rails. Although no longer in existence, visitors will find remnants of the tracks in many places throughout town.
Bangor Museum and Center For History
25 Broad Street
Bangor, ME 04401
Phone: 207-942-1900
Open: Under renovation; reopening to the public in June 2008
The museum focuses on the history of Bangor and the surrounding area.
Burnham Tavern Museum
Route 192
Machias, ME 04654
Phone: 207-255-4432
Open: Mid-June through early September, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.; other times by appointment
Built in 1770, this tavern was a rendezvous point for local patriots during the American Revolution. Exhibits focus on the history of the area through the 18th and 19th centuries. The Tavern is a fine example of the design and technology of the time and is furnished much as it was it was when America was in its infancy.
Cole Land Transportation Museum
405 Perry Road
Bangor, ME 04401
Phone: 207-990-3600
Open: May 1-November 11, daily, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Exhibits feature antique vehicles, including a display of military cars and trucks. There is also a covered bridge on the premises. Cost: Adults, $6; seniors age 62 and older, $4; children under age 19, free
Colonel Black Mansion
81 West Main Street
Ellsworth, ME
Phone: 207-667-8671
This 19th century home features displays of antique furniture and household items.
