Cooper MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Cooper, Maine.
1. Acadia National Park
NATURE'S COASTAL MASTERPIECE
Acadia National Park offers breathtaking coastal landscapes and diverse recreational opportunities near Cooper, Maine. Visitors can explore over 120 miles of hiking trails that wind through forests, along rocky shores, and up to mountain summits with panoramic views. The park's 45 miles of carriage roads provide perfect pathways for biking, walking, and horseback riding throughout the seasons.
2. Cadillac Mountain
FIRST LIGHT IN AMERICA
Cadillac Mountain stands as the highest point on the North Atlantic seaboard and is famous for being the first place to view sunrise in the United States during certain times of the year. The summit provides spectacular 360-degree views of Frenchman Bay, the Porcupine Islands, and surrounding mountains. Visitors can access the peak via a scenic drive or by hiking one of several trails that vary in difficulty.
3. Schoodic Mountain
SCENIC WILDERNESS HIKE
Schoodic Mountain offers hikers a rewarding climb with spectacular views of Frenchman Bay and Mount Desert Island. The relatively short but moderately challenging 2.8-mile trail leads to a 1,069-foot summit with panoramic vistas. This less-crowded alternative to Acadia's peaks provides a peaceful wilderness experience within driving distance of Cooper.
4. Tunk Mountain
CHALLENGING WILDERNESS ADVENTURE
Tunk Mountain presents one of the more challenging hiking experiences in the region with its steep terrain and 1,157-foot summit. The trail rewards adventurous hikers with exceptional views of surrounding mountains, lakes, and the distant coastline. Nature enthusiasts appreciate the diverse ecosystems encountered along the route, from wetlands to alpine environments.
5. Carriages of Acadia
HISTORIC HORSE-DRAWN TOURS
Carriages of Acadia offers enchanting horse-drawn carriage rides through the historic carriage roads of Acadia National Park. These narrated tours provide a unique perspective on the landscape while sharing the fascinating history of the park and its carriage road system built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. Visitors enjoy the peaceful clip-clop pace that allows for immersive nature viewing and photography opportunities.
6. Cooper Farm Trails
SCENIC COASTAL HIKING
Cooper Farm Trails offer visitors a chance to explore a historic 134-acre farmstead with stunning views over Eggemoggin Reach and the islands of Penobscot Bay. The property features well-maintained loop trails suitable for walking or skiing through beautiful fields and forests. From the trails, hikers can enjoy the same prized views visible from the Caterpillar Hill Scenic Turnout on ME-15.
7. Elmer's Barn
ECLECTIC ANTIQUE TREASURE
Elmer's Barn is a fascinating antique shop offering an extensive collection of architectural antiques, vintage signs, and delicate lace items. Browsers can spend hours exploring the eclectic mix of historical artifacts, furniture, and unique collectibles housed in a charming barn setting. The shop has become a destination for interior designers, collectors, and those seeking one-of-a-kind pieces with historical character.
8. Nervous Nellie's Jams & Jellies
QUIRKY SCULPTURE GARDEN
Nervous Nellie's Jams & Jellies features an extraordinary sculpture garden that delights visitors with its unique and quirky artistic creations. Beyond the art, guests can sample and purchase homemade jams, jellies, and other sweet treats made on-site using traditional methods. The combination of culinary craftsmanship and whimsical art makes this a memorable stop for travelers exploring the region around Cooper.
9. Caterpillar Hill Scenic Turnout
BREATHTAKING COASTAL PANORAMA
Caterpillar Hill Scenic Turnout offers one of Maine's most spectacular coastal views, overlooking Eggemoggin Reach, the islands of Penobscot Bay, and the Camden Hills. The Department of Transportation-maintained turnout provides a safe, accessible vantage point for photography and appreciation of Maine's natural beauty. Visitors particularly enjoy sunset views when the landscape is bathed in golden light and colors reflect off the water.
10. Sandy River Farm Market
LOCAL FARM-FRESH DELIGHTS
Sandy River Farm Market provides a delightful shopping experience featuring locally grown produce, farm-raised meats, and artisanal food products. The market specializes in organic dairy products from their own farm, including fresh milk, cheese, and ice cream that attract customers from throughout the region. Visitors appreciate the farm-to-table connection and opportunity to support local agriculture while enjoying fresh, seasonal foods.
11. Helen's Restaurant
ICONIC MAINE DINING
Helen's Restaurant has been serving classic Maine fare to locals and travelers since 1950, earning fame for its exceptional wild blueberry pie. The comfortable, no-frills dining room offers hearty portions of seafood, comfort food, and breakfast favorites at reasonable prices. Despite suffering a devastating fire in 2014, Helen's rebuilt and continues its tradition as a beloved regional institution worth the drive from Cooper.
12. Wild Blueberry Land
BERRY-THEMED ROADSIDE ATTRACTION
Wild Blueberry Land is an eye-catching roadside attraction shaped like a giant blue dome representing Maine's famous wild blueberry. This quirky spot offers visitors fresh baked blueberry goods, jams, syrups, and other blueberry-themed products and souvenirs. The family-friendly destination includes educational displays about Maine's wild blueberry industry and photo opportunities with blueberry-themed sculptures and decor.
13. Lubec Brewing Company
EASTERNMOST CRAFT BEER
Lubec Brewing Company proudly holds the distinction of being the easternmost brewery in the United States, offering unique craft beers in a friendly, rustic setting. Visitors can sample a rotating selection of house-brewed beers that often incorporate local ingredients and reflect regional flavors. The brewery frequently features live music and has become a community gathering spot that attracts both locals and tourists exploring Downeast Maine.
14. Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge
PRISTINE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge encompasses more than 28,000 acres of protected habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife in eastern Maine. Visitors can explore over 50 miles of trails for hiking, cross-country skiing, and wildlife viewing opportunities. The refuge offers excellent bird watching, with more than 220 species recorded, including the American woodcock and bald eagle.
15. Quoddy Head State Park
AMERICA'S EASTERNMOST POINT
Quoddy Head State Park marks the easternmost point in the United States, featuring the iconic candy-striped West Quoddy Head Lighthouse built in 1858. The park's dramatic cliffs offer spectacular views across the Bay of Fundy to Canada and provide excellent spots for whale watching and bird observation. Visitors can explore five miles of hiking trails that wind through coastal spruce forests, peat bogs, and along rugged shorelines.