Bridgton MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Bridgton, Maine.
1. Rufus Porter Museum of Art and Ingenuity
FOLK ART HERITAGE
The Rufus Porter Museum of Art and Ingenuity honors the legacy of Rufus Porter, a painter, musician, writer, teacher, inventor, and original publisher of Scientific American magazine. Located directly downtown, this specialty museum showcases Porter's enduring contributions to the culture of Maine and New England folk art. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight his impact on research, writing, and artistic traditions of the region.
2. Pondicherry Park
URBAN NATURE ESCAPE
Pondicherry Park offers 66 acres of woodlands, fields, streams, and wetlands with leisurely walking trails right in the heart of Bridgton. The park features beautiful bridges, wooded pathways, boardwalks, and an educational amphitheater that can be accessed from several spots near town. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy this peaceful retreat year-round for walking, hiking, and wildlife observation.
3. Pleasant Mountain Ski Area
YEAR-ROUND MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE
Pleasant Mountain Ski Area (formerly Shawnee Peak) is Maine's largest family-owned ski area featuring 40 trails, three terrain parks, seven glades, and night skiing opportunities. The mountain offers 98% snowmaking coverage with 5 lifts serving diverse terrain for all skill levels. During warmer months, visitors can enjoy scenic views and outdoor recreation activities on the mountain.
4. Highland Lake Beach
REFRESHING LAKESIDE RETREAT
Highland Lake Beach is a popular swimming spot located near Bridgton's village center, offering a refreshing escape on hot summer days. The small beach provides easy access to Highland Lake's crystal clear waters for swimming and sunbathing. Visitors appreciate its convenient location with shops and restaurants just steps away in downtown Bridgton.
5. Gallery 302
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Gallery 302 is a vibrant art gallery in downtown Bridgton showcasing works from local and regional artists. The gallery features rotating exhibitions with diverse artistic mediums including paintings, photography, sculpture, and crafts. Art enthusiasts can browse and purchase unique pieces while supporting the thriving creative community in the Lakes Region.
6. Narramissic Historic Farm
STEP BACK IN TIME
Narramissic Historic Farm is a well-preserved 19th-century homestead offering visitors a glimpse into rural Maine's agricultural past. This historic site features period furnishings, original architecture, and beautifully maintained grounds that tell the story of early New England farm life. Guided tours provide insight into the daily routines, challenges, and innovations of Maine's farming families from bygone eras.
7. Emporium 192
VINTAGE TREASURE HUNT
Emporium 192 is a highly-rated antique shop where treasure hunters can discover unique vintage items and collectibles. The shop offers a carefully curated selection of furniture, decor, jewelry, and nostalgic memorabilia from various eras. Visitors enjoy browsing through this charming establishment that combines the thrill of discovery with a trip down memory lane.
8. Holt Pond Preserve
DIVERSE ECOSYSTEMS TRAIL
Holt Pond Preserve features a 4.5-mile easy loop trail spanning a mix of wetland and upland habitats accessible year-round. Visitors can enjoy walking, hiking, birdwatching in warmer months or snowshoeing during winter. The preserve showcases the rich biodiversity of Maine's natural environments with opportunities to observe native flora and fauna in their natural habitats.
9. Bridgton Twin Drive-in
NOSTALGIC MOVIE EXPERIENCE
The Bridgton Twin Drive-in offers a nostalgic outdoor movie-watching experience with two separate screens showing first-run films. Visitors can enjoy current movies from the comfort of their vehicles while tuning in through their car radios for audio. This family-friendly attraction combines modern entertainment with the classic Americana charm of drive-in theaters from the golden age of cinema.
10. Magic Lantern Theater
MOVIES AND DINING COMBINED
The Magic Lantern Theater is a modern cinema and restaurant complex located in the center of town, continuing Bridgton's long history of movie entertainment. This innovative facility offers current films along with dining options all under one roof for a complete night out. The complex also houses the Magic Lantern Innovation Center, operated by Maine 4-H, which offers community programs in film, engineering, and culinary arts.
11. Black Horse Tavern
LOCAL CULINARY FAVORITE
Black Horse Tavern is a beloved local restaurant known for its welcoming atmosphere and quality cuisine. The tavern serves up hearty meals year-round, though it's closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Visitors and locals alike gather here to enjoy good food and drinks while experiencing authentic Maine hospitality.
12. Bridgton Books
LITERARY HAVEN DOWNTOWN
Bridgton Books is a charming independent bookstore located in downtown Bridgton with a wonderful collection of new and used titles. Book lovers can browse through shelves of diverse genres while enjoying the nostalgic atmosphere of a traditional local bookshop. Supporting this establishment helps preserve the cultural fabric of small-town Maine while providing readers access to literary treasures.
13. Bridgton Highlands Golf & Tennis
SCENIC SPORTING RECREATION
Bridgton Highlands Golf & Tennis offers recreational opportunities amid the beautiful landscape of western Maine. The facility features well-maintained golf courses with scenic mountain views and quality tennis courts for sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy active pursuits while taking in the natural beauty of the Lakes and Mountains region.
14. Bald Pate Mountain Trails
PANORAMIC HIKING EXPERIENCE
Bald Pate Mountain Trails offer a moderate 3.3-mile loop featuring wildflowers, bird watching opportunities, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Hikers can enjoy diverse terrain as they make their way through forests to panoramic vistas of lakes and mountains. During winter months, the trails transform for cross-country skiing, providing year-round recreational options.
15. Highland Research Forest
ACCESSIBLE NATURE EXPLORATION
Highland Research Forest features a 2-mile easy loop trail ideal for casual nature walks and outdoor exploration. The trail leads visitors through diverse woodland habitats before reaching the shores of Highland Lake. This accessible natural area provides opportunities for environmental education, relaxation, and connecting with Maine's forest ecosystems throughout the year.