EXPLORE CAMDEN

Camden Hills State Park

For great views, hiking trails, picnic areas, and of course, Mount Battie, you’ll want to visit Camden Hills State Park. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park. And on an average day, you can enjoy sprawling views of the various bays and islands off of the mainland.

Mount Battie

If you’d like to hike Mount Battie while you’re in Camden Hills State Park, many who have experienced the trail claim that is is decently accessible to all people, with a few steep areas that earn it a moderate rating. It is a 1.5-mile loop where you’ll see lots of wildlife, wildflowers, birds, and of course, the amazing views that encircle the mountain.

Laite Memorial Beach

Nothing says spending time on the coast like putting your toes in the sand on a beach. Laite Memorial Beach is a great beach for paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming, as well as taking a stroll and searching for shells when the tide is out. This is a perfect beach for spending the day and enjoying being on the Atlantic coast. Or maybe you’d prefer a freshwater beach? Then you should check out Barrett’s Cove at Megunticook Lake. This hometown treasure is well-known to locals and oft-missed by tourists. Besides a freshwater swim, you’ll enjoy excellent views of the west side of Camden Hills State Park.

Camden Harbor Cruises

Take to the water by renting a boat and heading out into the harbor. If you prefer to enjoy a schooner ride with a picnic on one of the many islands in the bay, you’ll love a vessel made especially for smaller groups like the Schooner Simplicity. Or maybe you’d like to take in the excitement of a real, working lobster vessel. If so, you’ll want to hop on Captain Jack’s Lobster Boat Adventure. You’ll get an up-close and personal view of a working vessel. You can also hop on the Lively Lady with Camden Harbor Cruises for one- to three-hour wildlife, lighthouse, and lobstering cruises. During all of its tours, you’ll see porpoises, harbor seals, and a lot of other wildlife. During the lobster cruise, you get a quick lesson in lobster fishing. If you prefer sightseeing on a windjammer, you can take a two-hour day sail on the Schooner Olad or Cutter Owl.

Merryspring Nature Center

As a 66-acre nature sanctuary, Merryspring Nature Center offers gardens and walking trails. The gardens are home to daylilies, herbs, roses, and perennials. One of the trails is an Interpretive Trail. The park often hosts free family-friendly events, such as bug safaris and guided tree identification walks. There’s also a small gift shop to visit before you leave.

Aldermere Farm Ocean Trail

For a fun learning experience, take your kids to Aldermere Farm. Your family can explore the farm as well as visit with and learn about the Belted Galloway cows, which are famous for being compared to Oreo cookies. The cattle have received a high level of recognition over the last three decades. Also, there’s a kid-friendly walking path to explore.

Uncle Willy's Candy Shoppe

Indulge in classic and modern candies at Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe. The store has a variety of gummies, novelties, fudge, gourmet chocolates, brittle, and licorice. The inventory changes regularly with seasonal flavors and treats. With such a range of options, you’re likely to find something to satisfy your sweet tooth, too.

Owl & Turtle Bookshop Café

For a quieter family-friendly activity, go to the Owl & Turtle Bookshop Café. It sells a unique collection of books and trinkets. There’s even a reading area for children, and you can time your visit during an author reading. In fact, the bookshop hosts many events throughout the year. While you’re there, step into the cafe area for savory and sweet treats from local bakers. The local Coffee on the Porch supplies the cafe’s coffee.

The Camden Public Library & Amphitheater

Adjacent to the library, the Harbor Park and Amphitheatre are part of the library’s property. A lot of events are held there, including charities, craft fairs, and concerts. When no events are planned, they are great places for walking and relaxing by Camden Harbor. You can have a picnic on the lawn and grab an ice cream from a nearby shop.

High Street Historic District

Unique architecture and historic sites are always popular destinations. In Camden, you’ll find the High Street Historic District. High Street is listed on the National Historic Registry and maintains standards on its buildings to comply with 18th and 19th-century designs. It’s like walking down a street to the past.

Camden-Rockport Historical Society

If you’d like to learn about the Camden area, visit the Camden-Rockport Historical Society to see one of the best collections of artifacts, photographs, and historic documents. The organization is committed to preserving the area’s history, and its museum complex stretches over six historic buildings.

Farnsworth Art Museum

For a more unique museum experience, check out the National Oz Museum. It has the biggest and most comprehensive collection of memorabilia related to the magical Land of Oz. The museum is a shrine to the characters, stories and other works based on “The Wonderful Wizard of Oz”, although it has other exhibits geared toward young visitors, too.

Henry Knox Museum

If you prefer to spend your time in the Revolutionary Era, you can visit the Henry Knox Museum. You’ll catch a glimpse of the hustle and bustle of this by-gone era.

Owls Head Transportation Museum

Explore vintage aircraft, automobiles, bikes etc.

Curtis Island Lighthouse

And what would a visit to the Maine coastline be without seeing a lighthouse or two? In Camden, you can see the Curtis Island Lighthouse. Established in 1836, this lighthouse is a part of a public park. It is not open to the public but can be viewed by boat or from the Curtis Island Overlook.

Maine Wine Trail

The Maine Winery Guild invites you to travel along the Wine Trail, visit our tasting rooms, and sample the wines and spirits we so proudly produce. Also, look for Maine wines in select specialty stores and markets.

Camden Shopping Spots

Camden Opera House

At the Camden Opera House, history, art and culture all combine for one incredible experience. This 500 seat auditorium is over 120 years old and features beautiful Victorian-era details such as antique moldings, gilt stenciling and large chandeliers. The venue hosts a variety entertainment, including ballets, musicals, comedians, films and classical music concerts. The Camden Opera House is owned by the city of Camden and is a featured part of the one-hour Walking Tour of Camden. Event tickets are available through the box office or can be purchased online or by phone.