Things To Do
Acadia National Park
Acadia National Park is the fifth most-visited U.S. National Park, and is a stunning escape just a short drive from Winterport, offering dramatic ocean cliffs, serene forests, and breathtaking mountain views. Guests can explore scenic hiking trails, enjoy a peaceful picnic, or take a drive along Park Loop Road to soak in the coastal beauty. Don’t miss Cadillac Mountain, where early risers can catch one of the first sunrises in the U.S. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Acadia’s natural charm is the perfect way to experience Maine’s outdoors. If you are looking for something to do during your stay, this is our top recommendation!
Bar Harbor
Right down the road from Acadia, downtown Bar Harbor is a vibrant coastal spot filled with charming shops, fresh seafood, and scenic waterfront views. Stroll along Main Street to browse local boutiques, walk the Shore Path for stunning ocean scenery, or relax in Agamont Park overlooking Frenchman Bay. Whether savoring a lobster roll or exploring seaside trails, Bar Harbor’s downtown offers a perfect mix of charm and adventure for wedding guests.
Fort Knox and the Penobscot Narrow Bridge
Fort Knox and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge offer a unique blend of history and breathtaking views. Fort Knox, one of the best-preserved coastal defense forts from the 1800s, invites visitors to explore its massive granite walls and winding tunnels. Just next door, the Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory stands as the tallest public bridge observatory in the world, with an elevator ride that takes guests 420 feet up for stunning panoramic views of the Penobscot River and surrounding Maine landscape. Whether you're a history buff or a fan of scenic vistas, this spot is a must-visit for wedding guests looking to experience Maine’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
Cole Land Transportation Museum
The Cole Land Transportation Museum in Bangor, ME, is a fascinating stop for history and transportation enthusiasts. Dedicated to preserving Maine’s land transportation heritage, the museum showcases everything from vintage trucks and trains to fire engines, bicycles, and even military vehicles. One of its standout exhibits is Snowplow Alley, featuring Maine’s unique snow removal equipment. Whether you're interested in classic cars or the evolution of transportation, this museum offers a glimpse into the machines that shaped the state’s history. A great spot for wedding guests looking to explore something unique!
Mount Katahdin
Mount Katahdin, Maine’s tallest peak, is a breathtaking destination for adventurous wedding guests. Located in Baxter State Park, this rugged mountain marks the northern end of the Appalachian Trail and offers stunning panoramic views. Whether tackling the challenging Knife Edge trail or enjoying the serene beauty of Katahdin Woods and Waters National Monument, visitors can experience Maine’s wild, untamed landscape. For those seeking a less strenuous outing, nearby lakes and scenic drives provide a perfect way to soak in the region’s natural beauty.
Trails
There are several walking paths, trails, and nature preserves around the Bangor area if you'd like to enjoy some nature locally during your stay! We recommend the Orono Bog Boardwalk for a walk, or Mount Waldo for a short but moderate hike. Use the link below to browse some other options.
Lighthouses
New England is well-known for its many lighthouses. If you'd like to visit one during your stay, the closest option is a quick stop by the Fort Point Lighthouse in Stockton Springs. There are also several options on your way up the coast (if flying into Portland or Boston). Or, if you are already planning on visiting Acadia and/or Bar Harbor (our top recommendations) the Bass Harbor Head Light Station near Acadia is a great option.
Traveling up the coast?
While we recommend flying into Bangor as it is the closest airport to our venue, if you do decide to fly into Portland or Boston, there are plenty of great locations you could visit along the coast while you make your way north. Some popular options, starting with those closer to Boston include: Boston (MA), Newburyport (MA), Portsmouth (NH), York (ME), Ogunquit (ME), Portland/Cape Elizabeth (ME), Freeport (ME), Rockland (ME), and Camden (ME). Feel free to ask us more about our suggestions.
Toddy Pond Farm
Well off the beaten path in Monroe, ME, Toddy Pond Farm is a true farm to table, serving thoughtfully raised food from their farm and local farms. All of the meat that they serve on their menu is raised there, 100% grass fed beef and lamb, woodland and pasture raised pork, and pasture raised chickens. Fruits, herbs and some vegetables come from their farm, but most of the gorgeous veggies on the menu are grown by amazing local and organic neighboring farms. Their menu constantly evolves with availability and with the seasons, and they offer a menu and dining experience that is delicious, beautiful, honest and nourishing. Their hours are Friday-Sunday, reservations required. Reservations open at 8 am on Saturday for the coming week, and go quickly! We highly recommend this incredible and unique spot!
Timber Kitchen & Bar
Timber Kitchen & Bar is one of the hottest spots to see Bangor. They embrace a loose-tie atmosphere, and their "Work Hard, Play Hard" motto defines their restaurant's ambiance. The buzz of conversation, enlivened music, and clinking of glasses creates an inviting environment that allows their guests to unwind after a long day. At Timber they combine class and hospitality to give their guests the best dining experience in Bangor.
Utopia Restaurant & Bar
Utopia uses fresh and locally sourced ingredients. They source local grass-fed pasture raised beef and organic vegetables. Utopia serves a variety of cuisines, from ribeye, seafood, fresh pasta, to moussaka, cauliflower steak, gyros & wings! Utopia has options for meat eaters and vegans. They have a full bar including craft cocktails, specialty wine, and local craft beer.
11 Central Downtown Eatery
11 Central prides themselves on delivering delicious, flavorful food and drink. Using the freshest ingredients in all our offerings, they source as much as they can from local farmers and purveyors. Everything is made in house; all soups, dressings, sauces, desserts and drinks. The recipes are a collaboration from the entire team at 11 Central. All made with love.
Winterport Winery and Penobscot Bay Brewery
Winterport Winery and Penobscot Bay Brewery are located in historic Winterport, Maine. They offer a variety of handcrafted fruit wines from locally sourced fruits, and small batch, hand crafted brews. The space is shared equally between Winterport Winery and Penobscot Bay Brewery, and their tasting room is unique in that it offers products from both. The winery and brewery were established in 2001 and 2009, respectively, and throughout the years, their small batch beers, award-winning wines, and delicious ciders have become staples of the community.
