Bowdoin MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bowdoin, Maine.
1. Bowdoin College
HISTORIC EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Bowdoin College is a prestigious educational institution with a rich history and beautiful campus. Visitors can explore the grounds and admire the historic architecture that dates back to the early 19th century. The college serves as a cultural hub for the Brunswick area, hosting various events and exhibitions throughout the year.
2. Bowdoin College Museum of Art
HISTORIC ART COLLECTION
The Bowdoin College Museum of Art is one of the oldest college art museums in the nation, housing more than 20,000 objects from ancient times to the present. The museum's collection began with the 1811 bequest of James Bowdoin III, which included European paintings and master drawings. Located in the landmark Walker Art Building, which was completed in 1894 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the museum offers free admission to the public.
3. Joshua L. Chamberlain Museum
CIVIL WAR HISTORY
The Joshua L. Chamberlain Museum preserves the home of the Civil War hero, former Maine governor, and Bowdoin College president. Visitors can explore the restored Victorian-era house and learn about Chamberlain's significant contributions to American history. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century life and the legacy of one of Maine's most distinguished citizens.
4. Maine State Music Theatre
BROADWAY-QUALITY PERFORMANCES
Maine State Music Theatre offers Broadway-quality performances in the heart of Brunswick. The theater presents a variety of musicals and theatrical productions throughout its summer season. Audiences can enjoy professional productions featuring talented performers from across the country.
5. Maine Street
HISTORIC SHOPPING DISTRICT
Maine Street serves as Brunswick's vibrant downtown corridor with a charming mix of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Visitors can stroll along this picturesque street to explore boutiques, bakeries, and antique shops housed in well-preserved historic structures. The area regularly hosts community events including a farmers' market from May to November.
6. Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum
POLAR EXPLORATION HISTORY
The Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum showcases the pioneering Arctic explorations of Bowdoin College graduates Robert Peary and Donald MacMillan. The museum houses artifacts, photographs, and exhibits that document the history of Arctic exploration and indigenous cultures of the region. Visitors can learn about the challenges and achievements of these famous explorers while gaining insights into the fragile Arctic environment.
7. Gulf of Maine Books
INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORE GEM
Gulf of Maine Books is a beloved independent bookstore offering a carefully curated selection of bestsellers and Maine titles. The store has been a fixture in Brunswick for decades, providing literary resources to both locals and visitors. Book lovers can browse through a wide variety of genres with special attention to works by Maine authors and books about the region.
8. Skolfield-Whittier House
SEA CAPTAIN'S HISTORIC HOME
The Skolfield-Whittier House is a preserved sea captain's home that offers visitors an authentic glimpse into Brunswick's maritime past. This historic house museum contains original furnishings and personal belongings spanning three generations of the Skolfield-Whittier family. Tours of the property reveal fascinating stories about Brunswick's shipping industry and the daily life of a prominent 19th-century family.
9. Flight Deck Brewing
CRAFT BEER EXPERIENCE
Flight Deck Brewing is a popular craft brewery located in Brunswick offering a variety of locally brewed beers. The brewery features a tasting room and outdoor space where visitors can sample their distinctive craft beverages. Flight Deck has become a community gathering spot where locals and tourists alike can enjoy quality brews in a relaxed atmosphere.
10. Portland Head Light
ICONIC COASTAL LIGHTHOUSE
Portland Head Light is Maine's oldest lighthouse, commissioned by George Washington in 1791 and located a short drive from Bowdoin. The lighthouse sits on a dramatic rocky coastline offering spectacular views of Casco Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can explore the museum housed in the former keeper's quarters and enjoy the surrounding Fort Williams Park with its walking paths and historic ruins.
11. Fort Popham State Historic Site
CIVIL WAR FORTIFICATION
Fort Popham State Historic Site features a semi-circular granite fort built in 1862 during the Civil War. The unfinished coastal defense structure offers visitors panoramic views of the Kennebec River as it meets the Atlantic Ocean. History enthusiasts can explore the fort's casemates and learn about its role in protecting Maine's coastline.
12. Thomas Point Beach
COASTAL RECREATION AREA
Thomas Point Beach is a popular recreational area offering swimming, picnicking, and camping opportunities along the coast. The beach features sandy shores and scenic views of the Atlantic, making it ideal for summer relaxation. Throughout the year, the venue hosts various events including the renowned Thomas Point Beach Bluegrass Festival.
13. Victoria Mansion
OPULENT VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURE
Victoria Mansion is an outstanding example of pre-Civil War opulence, featuring elaborate interiors and exceptional architectural details. Built between 1858 and 1860, this National Historic Landmark is considered one of the most important historic homes of the nineteenth century. Visitors can marvel at the original furnishings and decorative arts that offer a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Victorian era.
14. Cabot Mill Antiques
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNTING
Cabot Mill Antiques is housed in the historic Fort Andross Mill Complex, offering over 16,000 square feet of antiques and collectibles. Visitors can browse through items from more than 160 dealers showcasing furniture, jewelry, art, and vintage memorabilia. The mill's riverside location and industrial architecture add to the charm of this treasure-hunting experience.
15. Bowdoin International Music Festival
CLASSICAL MUSIC CELEBRATION
The Bowdoin International Music Festival is a renowned summer classical music event that attracts talented musicians from around the world. The festival offers a series of concerts, master classes, and educational programs on the Bowdoin College campus. Music enthusiasts can enjoy performances by both established artists and promising young musicians in various venues throughout Brunswick.