Discover
Ellsworth is the Best Spot to Explore Downeast
As a major regional hub, you’ll find all the supplies and conveniences you need for whatever kind of trip you want to make. Head downtown and discover a bustling Main Street with surprising shops (rocks anyone?) and dining. Admire the unique Art Deco architecture from the 1930s mixed in with classic New England monuments like City Hall, the library, and a towering church steeple.
With a little more wandering, stumble upon a lovely riverside trail that meanders along the Union River. In the other direction, watch boats pull into Harbor Park. Wander the residential streets and stumble upon the works of local artists at Artsworth, and then head downstairs for a beer and pizza from Fogtown.
Cultural surprises don’t stop with the visual arts. Discover world-class theater and chamber music right here in rural Maine. From the Kneisel Hall Chamber Music Festival to Milbridge Theatre’s productions and a variety of performances at the Stonington Opera House, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the quality and quantity of thoughtful entertainment in and around Ellsworth.
For nature lovers, Birdsacre Nature Center and trails are sure to delight. And for those interested in history and architecture, Woodlawn Estate is a curated timeline of local history through the lens of one family’s cherished belongings. Plus, you may be surprised by a national croquet tournament happening on the grounds.
From antique to boutique to supplies – we have your shopping needs and wants covered
Discover revolutionary forts, stately mansions, and much more.
Explore visual arts options and experience all kinds of live performances.
Not sure where to start? We’ve got you!
Ellsworth is the Best Spot to Explore Downeast
But staying in Ellsworth offers so much more. Because the shores, forests, and small towns of Downeast await in every direction. As your hub for exploration, Ellsworth allows you to discover the delights of Coastal Maine beyond the tourist traps and selfie spots of Acadia and Bar Harbor. You can get to those places, to be sure, but staying in Ellsworth allows you to avoid the long lines and tight parking that come with national park proximity.
Beyond the national park you’ll find so many treasured destinations to discover. A drive through the Blue Hill Peninsula will bring you to charming towns like Surry and Blue Hill – one of many towns with a famous “reversing falls.” Or discover the secret capital of wooden boat building in Brooklin (but seriously, make inquiries, because you won’t find it just by looking). Make your way down to Deer Isle and the picturesque fishing port of Stonington, or sneak a peek at the unique architecture and remarkable crafts at Haystack Mountain School of Crafts. Further west discover the tranquil solitude of Holbrook Island Sanctuary. And in Bucksport you’ll find historic Fort Knox, incredible birdseye views from the Penobscot Narrows Bridge observatory, and a charming river walk in downtown.
If you set your sights east of Ellsworth, you’ll find your way along the Schoodic National Scenic Byway. Make pitstops to see the Tidal Falls Preserve or discover the eccentric beauty of the Granite Art Garden in Sullivan. Scenic views call to the adventurous hikers who climb Schoodic Mountain, but the quiet sandy beach of Donnell Pond awaits those looking to relax. Along the Schoodic Peninsula you’ll find the rugged, less traveled section of Acadia National Park, with hiking trails, dramatic rocks, and crashing ocean breakers.
Farther east discover more quiet hiking and lovely shorelines at the Petit Manan Wildlife Refuge. If your sense of adventure really kicks in, you can venture as far as Machias and the Cutler Coast (perhaps the most beautiful in Maine) or even to Campobello, Canada and the sublimely picturesque West Quoddy Head Lighthouse.
Even inland adventures await those who seek the “big city” life of Bangor (please don’t get excited, this is about as big-city as it gets up here). If a rainy day keeps you indoors, find your way to the Maine Discovery Museum, Cole Land Transportation Museum, Zillman Art Museum, Maine Air Museum, or Urban Air.
Find fun things to do no matter how young or old
Discover the best places to get out there
Spring, summer, or autumn – all look and feel completely different in Downeast. And all are worth the discovery. Find out what surprises each season holds and consider the best time to visit based on your desired experience.
Discover the difference a season makes.
