Maine is a wonderful destination during the autumn months. Favorite activities include hiking and trail walks, taking a scenic drive along the coast, and indulging in delicious seafood at local restaurants. There are also plenty of charming towns to explore, like Rockport, Camden, and more. The Coast of Maine and Penobscot Bay offer a perfect blend of outdoor adventure, coastal beauty, and New England charm for a relaxing or adventurous vacation. Whatever your reason for visiting Rockland, Maine, this fall, here are some of our favorite things to do.
Visit the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse for a fun adventure. The walk along the breakwater is about 7/8 of a mile long, but the view from the top of the lighthouse is worth it. While you’re there, you will see Rockland Harbor Hotel across the harbor, a unique perspective and take in the beautiful scenery of boats passing by and people fishing. You might even catch a glimpse of a majestic schooner like A Morning in Maine, sailing through the smooth waters of Penobscot Bay.
The Farnworth Art Museum is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience art and culture during their trip. With its vast collection of over 15,000 works by America’s greatest artists, it’s an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of art. Additionally, the fact that the museum is celebrating its 75th year only adds to the experience, making it an even more memorable visit. And with the cooler weather, it’s the perfect time to enjoy all that the museum has to offer.
Catch a show or performance at Strand Theatre. The historic Strand Theatre, Mid-coast Maine’s premiere entertainment venue, has been entertaining audiences since 1923. Located in beautiful downtown Rockland, the Strand presents independent and first-release films, live music, Met Opera, and other live broadcasts, educational programs, and community events.
If you’re looking for some fall festivities, there are a couple of great options in the area. The Camden Windjammer Festival takes place every Labor Day weekend on the Camden waterfront, celebrating the rich history of schooners and windjammers in Maine. Alternatively, you could check out the Camden International Film Festival, which runs from September 14-17 and attracts documentary filmmakers and movie lovers from all over the world.
There are plenty of dining options just a few steps away from your hotel. You can take a stroll downtown and find a variety of delicious options for any taste. Whether you’re in the mood for some fresh seafood from Hill’s Seafood Co. or some house-made pasta from Ada’s Kitchen, you’ll be able to find something to satisfy your cravings. For those who prefer a farm-to-table dining experience, we recommend checking out Primo. And if you’re in the mood for some coffee and baked goods, Atlantic Baking Co. is the perfect spot to start your day.
Starting your holiday shopping early is a great way to beat the crowds and ensure that you have plenty of time to find the perfect gifts. The Seagull Cottage Shop, Puffin’s Nest, and Archipelago are all fantastic local shops to check out. They offer a wide variety of gifts, décor, art, and more, so you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list. Plus, shopping locally is a great way to support small businesses in your community.
Finally, you’ll want to take a scenic drive to capture the beauty of foliage season. Many visitors from around the world come to see the vibrant colors. For more information on tracking foliage this fall, you can visit https://www.maine.gov/dacf/mfs/projects/fall_foliage/whenandwhere/southern.html.
There’s so much to see and do in this beautiful area, and we highly recommend experiencing it for yourself.