There are countless fun things to do in Bangor, Maine. Located on the beautiful Green Lake, Jenkins Beach is a white sand beach perfect for relaxing and soaking up the summer sun.
It’s a half-hour drive between Bangor and Ellsworth. For a small fee, day-trippers and lake lovers can join in the fun.
During the 19th century, Maine’s forests were full of naval stores and lumber, which brought tremendous wealth to the region.
By the 1850s, Bangor was regarded as the lumber capital of the world. It was also heavily involved in commerce and shipbuilding.
The article covers all the exciting tourist attractions in Bangor, Maine!
Where Is Bangor, Maine?
The city of Bangor is located in the U.S. state of Maine, and it’s the county seat of the same region. It has a population of 31,753, making it the third-largest city in the state.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the city has an area of around 34.59 square miles. Of this, 34.26 square miles is land, while the remaining 0.33 square miles is water.
If you will be visiting Maine, endeavor to also check out exciting things to do in York.
Fun Things to Do in Bangor, Maine
The city of Bangor is located in the central part of Maine, and it’s on the banks of the Penobscot River. It is known as the Queen City of the East.
There are plenty of things to do in Bangor, Maine, and it offers various lodging options.
These are all the best things to do in Bangor, Maine:
1. Hudson Museum
The museum features several artifacts and historical items obtained from various cultures all around the world.
Its permanent exhibits include over 2,000 Pre-Colombian ceramics and things acquired from the Northwest coast area, Native Americans, and Maine Indians.
The museum frequently hosts traveling exhibits, lectures, and field trips for elementary and high school students.
Address: The Hudson Museum is located at 5746 Collins Center for the Arts Bangor ME 04469, USA.
2. Acadia National Park
One of the most popular areas in Maine is the Acadia National Park. This park is known for its numerous islands, including Mount Desert Island.
Some other popular attractions in the park include the Cadillac Mountain Lighthouse, Isle au Haut, and Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse.
Plenty of fun activities can be enjoyed in the park, such as camping, fishing, and horseback riding.
During the winter, various outdoor activities such as ice fishing, sledding, and snow skiing can also be enjoyed.
Address: The Acadia National Park is located at Maine, USA.
3. Maine Discovery Museum
The city of Bangor is known for its various attractions, such as Maine Discovery Museum.
This museum is dedicated to inspiring children’s creativity and learning. It features hands-on exhibits that will allow them to learn more about the world.
The museum also features various programs and clubs to inspire children’s creativity. It has exhibits geared toward multiple sciences, technology, and math subjects.
Address: The Maine Discovery Museum is located at 74 Main Street Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
4. Bangor Farmer Market
The Bangor Farmers Market is an open-air event every Sunday from May to November.
This market features merchants and farmers who provide the public with fresh fruits and vegetables.
It’s located across from the library in the city of Bangor. The market features various types of food, such as cheese, coffee, and baked goods. The market is open from 11 am to 2 pm and closes at 2 pm.
Address: The Bangor Farmer Market is located at 140 Harlow St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
5. Paul Bunyan Statute
It’s widely believed that Paul Bunyan created various settlements and farms by clearing vast amounts of forest. He reportedly used a double-sided ax and a massive blue ox.
The city of Bangor is one of the few places in the U.S. that claim to have the stories of Paul Bunyan as their own.
Due to the size of the statue of Bunyen in the city, it’s widely believed that Bangor has a better claim to this legend.
Address: The Paul Buyan Statute is located at 519 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
6. Mount Hope Cemetery
The Mount Hope Cemetery is regarded as one of the most historical places in the country.
Due to the increasing number of people living in the city, the residents of Bangor requested that the city allow them to bury their dead in areas outside the city’s limits.
In 1836, the cemetery was established with the help of a grant from the state. It features various trees and shrubs, as well as various monuments and flowers.
Address: The Mount Hope Cemetery is located at 1048 State Street, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
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7. Timber Kitchen and Bar
The restaurant is known for its hearty and tasty local cuisine. The walls and ceilings of this establishment are made of unpolished wood, which makes them very interesting.
The floors are also smooth wood, creating a comfortable and exciting atmosphere.
The restaurant’s menu features different types of food, such as burgers, pizza, and seafood.
The other dishes on the menu include cheese, bread, and handmade pasta. All these are made using local produce and are accompanied by the restaurant’s cheeses and meats.
Address: The Timber Kitchen and Bar is located at 22 Bass Park Blvd, Bangor. ME 04401, USA.
8. Cole Land Transportation Museum
The Cole Land Transportation Museum was established to preserve the various types of vehicles used during the development and clearing of the land now known as Maine.
It aims to preserve the history of the individuals who came to this area and the various jobs that they created.
The goal of the Cole Foundation is to inspire future generations to work hard and achieve greatness.
Through the stories presented at the museum, the organization hopes to help people realize the importance of working hard.
Address: The Cole Land Transportation Museum is located at 405 Perry Rd Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
9. University of Maine Museum of Art
The University of Maine’s Museum of Art was established in 1946 to help the public appreciate contemporary art.
The museum’s permanent collection features over 3,800 works of art that were made during the 20th century.
The museum’s collection features various works of art made by some of the most prominent artists, such as Pablo Picasso, Andy Warhol, and Richard Rates.
Visiting this museum is one of the best things to do in Bangor, Maine.
Address: The University of Maine Museum of Art is located at 40 Harlow St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
10. Collins Center for the Arts
The Collins Center features various concert halls, including the Minsky, Hutchins, and Bodwell Lounge areas.
The University of Maine’s School of Performing Arts is often utilized for various performances. The Collins Center is also used for various events, such as lectures and concerts.
The Miller’s Cafe can be found on the first floor of the building. Once you’re done exploring the facility, you can also enjoy refreshments at this establishment.
Address: The Collins Center for the Arts is located at 2 Flagstaff Road, Bangor, ME 04469, USA.
See Also: Fun Things to Do in Dawsonville (GA)
11. Stephen King House
Stephen King is known for his critically acclaimed works of horror, such as “It,” “Pet Sematary,” and “The Shining.” Other works by King include “Rita Hayworth,” “The Green Mile,” and “The Shawshank Redemption.”
This tour will allow you to visit the locations used in some of King’s most famous works. For instance, the cemetery in “Pet Sematary” can be seen here.
Address: The Stephen King House is located at 47 W Broadway, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
12. Fork and Spoon Downtown Eatery
Located in the heart of downtown Bangor, Fork and Spoon Downtown is a great place to meet up with people and eat.
Before planning their various food offerings, try their fruit and vegetable smoothies.
Eating in this restaurant is also one of the best things in Bangor, Maine. The food at Fork and Spoon Downtown is made with fresh produce and is topped with cheese and other flavorful ingredients. Their desserts are also made with local ingredients.
Address: The Fork and Spoon Downtown Eatery is located at 76 Main Street Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
13. 2 Feet Brewing
2 Feet Brewing is a local establishment serving excellent food and a wide selection of self-brewed beers.
Their various dishes can be tried out on the spot, and they also have pepper beer that you can try.
The staff members at this establishment are amiable and knowledgeable about all types of beer.
Address: The 2 Feet Brewing is located at 80 Columbia St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
14. Cascade Park
This park features various areas such as fountains, trees, and other attractions. It’s a great location where you can enjoy relaxing. It takes around two hours to walk through the entire park.
Address: The Cascade Park is located at 600 State St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
15. Hollywood Casino
After playing, take a break and enjoy some refreshments while the music plays in the background. The casino also has an in-house restaurant, usually visited by people.
The casino has many commonly played games, such as poker, blackjack, and roulette.
Hollywood is different from other casinos because it doesn’t have a loud or crowded environment.
Also, it doesn’t allow smoking inside the establishment. The staff members are amiable and knowledgeable about all types of gaming.
Address: The Hollywood Casino is located at 500 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
16. Penobscot Theatre Company
This is a great theatre that features various musical shows. You can watch them all year round, and they charge a small token to watch each performance.
The actors at the theatre are passionate and professional, and they deliver amazing performances.
The theatre features various plays and performances with amazing sets and costumes. These are designed to help drive home the story.
Address: The Penobscot Theatre Company is located at 131 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
17. Bangor Mall
The Bangor Mall has a wide selection of brands. These include Victoria’s Secret, Rock’s Sporting Goods, and other stores.
The mall also has multiple areas designed to allow people to relax and have a snack.
Address: The Bangor Mall is located at 663 Stillwater Ave, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
18. Bangor Waterfront Pavilion
The concert venue in Bangor, where most of the big events are held, is the Bangor Waterfront. It features a well-organized and clean area.
The area is also trendy because it allows people to dance. Although there are seats in the pavilion, you will most likely enjoy the music.
Various prominent artists have performed at the Bangor Waterfront. Some of these include Kid Rock, Ed Sheeran, and Imagine Dragon.
Address: The Bangor Waterfront Pavilion is located at 81 Railroad St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
19. The Rock and Art Shop
During your tour, you should have a souvenir to help you remember the city of Bangor.
This can be a gift for someone special, or it can be a great way to show your appreciation for the visit.
The Rock and Art Shop has a wide selection of different products. These include crystals, rocks, jewelry, books, and other items.
Visiting this shop should easily make your list of the best things to do in Bangor, Maine.
The artists featured in this store are known to create unique works of art. The shop also has several other beautiful works of art, such as air plants and paintings. This is a great place to visit if you want something unique.
Address: The Rock and Art Shop is located at 36 Central St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
20. Bangor City Forest
This is a great place to visit if you want something unique. The area is also very peaceful and quiet. This makes it one of the best attractions in the area.
If you are looking for a quiet and peaceful place, then the Bangor City Forest is a great choice.
There are numerous benches along the trail that lead to the forest. It is a great way to get away from the traffic and the noise of the city.
Address: The Bangor City Forest is located at 54 Tripp Dr, Bangor, ME 04401, USA.
21. Penobscot River Walkway
The trail leads to the forest, and it is also wheelchair accessible. It can be used for various activities, such as walking, in-line skating, and bicycling.
The walkway is part of the Bangor Waterfront Park, and it has picnic tables, boat shops, and restrooms.
Exploring this area is one of the best things to do in Bangor, Maine. The scenery along the walkway is beautiful and a great way to explore the area. You can also bring along your camera and take photos.
Address: The Penobscot River Walkway is located at 15 Hardy St, Brewer, ME 04412, United States.
Best Time to Visit Bangor, Maine
The weather in the area can be unpredictable. In April and May, it can be windy and wet.
The best time to visit the area is June, which is usually the warmest month. However, in July and August, it can be very humid.
Cost of Visiting Bangor, Maine
The average cost of traveling to Bangor is about $1,406 for a solo traveler. It ranges from $2,705 for a couple to $5,071 for a family.