Alfred MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Alfred, Maine.
1. Gile's Family Farm
HISTORIC APPLE ORCHARD
Gile's Family Farm is a popular destination in Alfred offering visitors a chance to experience rural Maine farm life. The farm is known for its apple orchards and seasonal activities that attract families throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy apple picking, farm-fresh products, and the scenic countryside views that showcase Maine's agricultural heritage.
2. Alfred Shaker Museum
RELIGIOUS COMMUNITY HISTORY
The Alfred Shaker Museum preserves the rich history of the Shaker religious community that settled in Alfred in 1783. The museum is housed in the Alfred Shaker Historic District, where visitors can learn about the distinctive religious practices and lifestyle of this once-thriving community. Exhibits showcase Shaker craftsmanship, furniture, and the cultural impact of this unique religious group on the region.
3. Gile's Family Farm Sugarhouse
MAINE MAPLE EXPERIENCE
Gile's Family Farm Sugarhouse offers visitors an authentic Maine maple syrup production experience. During maple season, guests can observe the traditional process of transforming maple sap into sweet syrup. The sugarhouse sells a variety of maple products and provides educational demonstrations about this important New England tradition.
4. Alfred Parish Church UCC
HISTORIC RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE
Alfred Parish Church UCC stands as a historic landmark in the center of Alfred, showcasing classic New England ecclesiastical architecture. The church has served as a spiritual and community gathering place for generations of local residents. Visitors appreciate its architectural details, historical significance, and peaceful setting in this small Maine town.
5. De Wolfe and Wood Rare Books
LITERARY TREASURE TROVE
De Wolfe and Wood Rare Books is a specialty bookshop in Alfred catering to collectors and literary enthusiasts. The shop specializes in rare, antique, and collectible books that draw bibliophiles from across the region. Browsers can discover everything from first editions to historical manuscripts in this literary treasure trove.
6. Bauneg Beg Mountain
SCENIC HIKING TRAILS
Bauneg Beg Mountain is a three-peaked mountain near Alfred offering several well-marked trails to its middle summit, also known as Lookout. On clear days, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding Maine countryside. The mountain is considered a local gem for outdoor enthusiasts seeking moderate hiking opportunities in southern Maine.
7. Kennebunk Plains Preserve
RARE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
The Kennebunk Plains Preserve is a unique protected area featuring wide, easy walking trails through diverse habitats. This sanctuary serves as a haven for rare and endangered birds in Maine, making it a prime destination for birdwatchers and nature photographers. The preserve's expansive landscape offers visitors peaceful nature walks with opportunities to observe native wildlife in their natural setting.
8. Old Orchard Beach Pier
CLASSIC COASTAL ENTERTAINMENT
The Old Orchard Beach Pier extends nearly 500 feet over the Atlantic Ocean, offering visitors shops, food, and games of skill. During summer months, the pier hosts numerous special events including festivals, fairs, free concerts, street dances, and Thursday night fireworks. The surrounding beachfront area features gift shops, restaurants, nightclubs, and arcades, creating a complete entertainment destination for families.
9. Funtown Splashtown U.S.A.
THRILLING AMUSEMENT PARK
Funtown Splashtown U.S.A. is Maine's largest water and amusement park combination, located a short drive from Alfred. The park features thrilling rides, water attractions, and family-friendly entertainment options for visitors of all ages. As one of the region's premier summer destinations, it offers a perfect way to cool off and enjoy classic amusement park fun.
10. Kittery Trading Post
OUTDOOR EQUIPMENT EMPORIUM
The Kittery Trading Post is a renowned outdoor retailer offering a wonderland of camping and sporting gear for outdoor enthusiasts. The massive store features multiple levels dedicated to fishing, hunting, camping, clothing, footwear, and outdoor recreation equipment. Visitors from across New England make special trips to browse this iconic Maine shopping destination.
11. Massabesic Experimental Forest
NATURE RESEARCH PRESERVE
The Massabesic Experimental Forest is partially located in Alfred and serves as an important research and conservation area. The forest provides opportunities for hiking, wildlife observation, and learning about forest ecology and management. Visitors can explore trails through diverse woodland habitats while experiencing the natural beauty of southern Maine.
12. Wells Reserve at Laudholm
COASTAL ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
The Wells Reserve at Laudholm is a stunning coastal property featuring protected salt marshes, beaches, and woodland areas. The reserve offers miles of walking trails, educational programs, and a historic farmstead that showcases the region's agricultural heritage. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems while learning about coastal conservation and environmental research.
13. Seashore Trolley Museum
VINTAGE TRANSIT COLLECTION
The Seashore Trolley Museum houses the world's largest collection of historic transit vehicles and offers visitors a nostalgic journey through transportation history. Guests can ride restored trolleys on the museum's demonstration railway and explore exhibits detailing the evolution of public transportation. The museum's extensive collection includes trolleys, buses, and rapid transit vehicles from around the world.
14. Marginal Way Coastal Walkway
SCENIC OCEAN PATH
The Marginal Way is a picturesque paved footpath stretching 1.25 miles along Ogunquit's dramatic coastline. This scenic walkway offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, rocky cliffs, and sandy beaches that have inspired artists for generations. Visitors can enjoy numerous benches along the path, perfect for resting and soaking in the natural beauty of Maine's coast.
15. Vinegar Hill Music Theatre
INTIMATE PERFORMANCE VENUE
Vinegar Hill Music Theatre is a charming performance venue housed in a restored 19th-century barn offering an intimate setting for live music and entertainment. The theater hosts a diverse lineup of musicians, comedians, and performers throughout its summer season. Its rustic ambiance and excellent acoustics create a unique cultural experience for visitors to southern Maine.