Bangor:
Located in the heart of central Maine, Bangor serves as the commercial and economic hub for Downeast and Central Maine. This modern city features an international airport, a thriving retail industry with most national retail names. Numerous accommodations are located throughout the city, including an Inn in historic downtown. Cultural activities include the Penobscot Theatre Company and the Bangor Symphony Orchestra, the nation's oldest continual orchestra. There much to do and see in this city. When you explore Down East Maine, be sure to start in Bangor. Bangor Maine History

Orono:
Located 10 miles north of Bangor, Orono is the site for the largest campus in the University of Maine system. The University offers many cultural activities including the Maine Center for the Arts and the Hudson Museum. In downtown, numerous pubs, restaurants and specialty shops serve this University-oriented population.

Mt. Desert Island:
MDI, as it is called has the distinction of being the third largest island on the east coast. This wonderful island is home to numerous destinations, not the least of which is Acadia National Park (map), the nation's oldest east of the Mississippi River (established in 1916). There is so much to be said about the park, that you can read about it in it's own featured section of the Down East region.

Bar Harbor: Located on east side of Mt. Desert Island, Bar Harbor lies at the foot of the mountains of Acadia. From the town pier, you can see numerous islands, and even take a boat tour to the islandsa or whale watch cruise. The Bluenose Ferry is located here and provides escort to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia (vehicles are allowed). In Bar Harbor, dozens of accommodations are available, ranging from inns and bed and breakfasts to motels and cottages. Camping is available as well throughout the island or in the two campsites within Acadia National Park. Southwest Harbor: Called "quiet side of Acadia", this small coastal town is big on charm. Camping, as well as fine accommodations, and dining are available. You can stroll along Southwest's main streets and explore museums, shops, and find dining. The annual wooden boat show is a testiment to Southwest's boatbuilding history. Regular ferry service is available to the Cranberry Isles. Bass Harbor: Here, you'll find the Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse. Also, ferries run regularly to Swans Island.

Winter Harbor:
This town received it's name due to its wide harbor that remains ice-free through the winter. Here, another section of Acadia National Park, Schoodic Point, is found. Schoodic Point extends further out into the open Atlantic Ocean than any other point of mainland along the eastern seaboard. An annual lobster festival is held here each year the second weekend in August. Nearby is Prospect Harbor Light.

Ellsworth:
Moving inland, off Mt. Desert Island, you'll find Ellsworth. Filled with historic buildings and modern facilities, Ellsworth acts as the crossroads to downeast. Several accommodations, restaurants and shops await you. There is also a small L.L. Bean outlet store here, as are many other outdoor sporting stores.

Blue Hill:
Home to several accomplished artists and potters, there are numerous shops featuring works open year round. This quiet spot offers magnificent scenery. Hiking is nearby at Blue Hill (the actually hill). This community is also a seasonal retreat for chamber musicians who give concerts regularly at Kneisel Hall.

Deer Isle - Stonington Area:
An old-fashioned lobstering community, these town islands offers traditional island life. Regular cruises around the bay are available, as are cruises to Vinalhaven Island and Isle au Haut.

Castine:
For such a small town, Castine sure has some history. More than 100 historical markers mark sites where history was made with hard fought battles. Some of the houses here date back to the 1700's. Today, it is home to Maine Maritime Academy and their huge training ship, the State of Maine. Tours are available.

Bucksport:
At the mouth of the Penobscot River, Bucksport offers deep water port facilities. Known as the "Gateway to Downeast", there are accommodations, shopping opportunities and famed granite monument to Jonathan Buck, a golf course and more. Champion Paper Mill is located here and is the most modern of its type in the world.

West Quoddy Head Light Calais: Bordering the Canadian province of New Brunswick, Calais lies on the eastern side of Maine. An international bridge spanning the St. Croix River connects Calais to the city of St. Stephen, New Brunswick. Calais is Washington County's largest city. During August, the International Festival and features parades, river races, fireworks, soap box derby and more. Eastport: Eastport is the easternmost city in the United States. The historic waterfront thrives as a bustling port, which serves fishing, international shipping, and pleasure boating. Actually, Eastport is on Moose Island. Ferry service is available to Canadian Islands and the Canadian mainland. Charter cruises, whale watches and sailboats are available. A historic district, private galleries, and an arts center are all things to explore during your visit to Eastport. Annual festivals include the Salmon Festival (first Sunday after Labor Day), the Festival of Lights in December and the Lupine Festival, the third weekend in June. Lubec: Here, the Quoddy Headlight sits on the most easterly point of land in the United State. The Roosevelt International Bridge connects Lubec to Campobello Island, site of the Franklin Delano Roosevelt summer home. The homestead is now part of a huge 2600-acre natural park with more than eight miles of hiking trails.

 

Milbridge:
Located in the Machias Bay area, Milbridge is home to one of the State's largest blueberry packing companies, Jasper Wyman & Sons.

Jonesport:
Home of the annual "World's Fastest Lobster Boat Races" every July fourth.

Machias:
The town of Machias has a rich history, particular due to its early involvement in the America Revolutionary War. You can visit Fort O'Brien, site of the first naval engagement of the war. Today, Machias is home to shopping, friendly accommodations and the annual Blueberry Festival, held each year on the third week in August.

Harrington:
This small town area is big on fishing. In fact, Harrington, along with neighboring towns of Cherryfield and Whitneyville, are considered prime Atlantic salmon area.

Grand Lakes:
This area of Maine is home to some of the best fishing in America. The Town of Princeton is your entry to the area. Several lodges and sporting resorts are located in this area.