Friendship MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Friendship, Maine.
1. Friendship Museum
LOCAL HISTORY AND HERITAGE
The Friendship Museum was organized in 1964 to gather, organize, and display historical memorabilia pertaining to the fishing village of Friendship. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing the rich maritime heritage of this coastal Maine community. The museum provides insight into the town's long history as a successful fishing community.
2. Olson House
ICONIC ART LOCATION
The Olson House is a historic property made famous in Andrew Wyeth's painting 'Christina's World.' This well-preserved farmhouse allows visitors to step into the setting of one of America's most iconic paintings. The house offers guided tours that provide context about both the Olson family and Wyeth's artistic legacy.
3. Blue Claw Boat Tours
SCENIC WATER EXCURSIONS
Blue Claw Boat Tours offers visitors a chance to experience Maine's stunning coastline from the water. Their guided tours showcase local marine wildlife, historic lighthouses, and the picturesque islands off Friendship's shores. Guests consistently rate these excursions highly for both educational value and natural beauty.
4. Barbara Prey Projects
CONTEMPORARY MAINE ART
Barbara Prey Projects is an art gallery showcasing the works of acclaimed watercolorist Barbara Ernst Prey. The gallery features her distinctive Maine landscapes and architectural paintings that have earned international recognition. Visitors can appreciate Prey's masterful technique and unique perspective on New England coastal scenes.
5. Pam Cabanas Studio and Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Pam Cabanas Studio and Gallery features the artistic works of local Maine artist Pam Cabanas. The gallery showcases paintings and artwork inspired by the natural beauty and maritime heritage of coastal Maine. Visitors can browse and purchase original pieces that capture the essence of Friendship and its surroundings.
6. Lighthouse Creations Art Designs
NAUTICAL-INSPIRED CRAFTS
Lighthouse Creations Art Designs offers handcrafted items and artwork inspired by Maine's maritime heritage. The shop features a variety of lighthouse-themed decorative pieces, jewelry, and local artisan works. Visitors can find unique souvenirs and gifts that capture the coastal charm of Friendship.
7. Friendship Sloop Days
MARITIME HERITAGE CELEBRATION
Friendship Sloop Days is an annual event celebrating the famous gaff-rigged sloops that originated in Friendship, Maine. Held each July in Rockland Harbor Park, this regatta brings together Friendship sloops from across the East Coast for races, demonstrations, and a grand parade. Visitors can tour the docked sloops, attend community events, and learn about these historic vessels that were once the dominant lobster boats of Maine's fishermen.
8. Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
HISTORIC MARITIME BEACON
The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse sits at the end of a nearly mile-long granite breakwater extending into Rockland Harbor. Visitors can walk the impressive breakwater for spectacular views of Penobscot Bay, nearby islands, and passing boats. The lighthouse, built in 1902, is open for tours during summer months, offering insight into Maine's maritime history.
9. Farnsworth Art Museum
MAINE ART COLLECTION
The Farnsworth Art Museum houses one of the nation's largest collections of works by the Wyeth family—N.C., Andrew, and Jamie. The museum celebrates Maine's role in American art with extensive collections from the 18th century to present day. Its Wyeth Center, housed in a renovated church, is dedicated exclusively to the works of the renowned artistic family with strong ties to the Midcoast region.
10. Marshall Point Lighthouse
PICTURESQUE COASTAL LANDMARK
Marshall Point Lighthouse stands on a rocky point at the entrance to Port Clyde harbor, made famous in the film 'Forrest Gump.' The lighthouse complex includes a museum in the former keeper's house that details local maritime history and lighthouse keeping. Visitors can enjoy the dramatic coastal scenery while exploring the grounds and museum from May through October.
11. Pemaquid Point Lighthouse
ICONIC MAINE LIGHTHOUSE
Pemaquid Point Lighthouse is one of Maine's most photographed lighthouses, featured on the state quarter. The 1835 lighthouse sits atop dramatic rock formations that showcase the geological forces that shaped Maine's coastline. Visitors can tour the lighthouse tower, explore the Fisherman's Museum in the keeper's house, and enjoy the surrounding park with its stunning ocean views.
12. Maine State Aquarium
LOCAL MARINE LIFE
The Maine State Aquarium showcases the diverse marine life found in the Gulf of Maine's cold waters. Visitors can experience interactive touch tanks with lobsters, sharks, and other local sea creatures. The aquarium's exhibits include a lobster hatchery and displays of rare lobster color mutations found in Maine waters.
13. Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
SPECTACULAR GARDEN OASIS
Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens spans 295 acres of tidal shoreland with stunning gardens, sculpture, and natural landscapes. Visitors can explore miles of hiking trails, themed gardens, and art installations that change with the seasons. The Gardens feature a renowned children's garden, meditation gardens, and special exhibits that showcase Maine's diverse plant communities.
14. Morse's Sauerkraut
ICONIC MAINE EATERY
Morse's Sauerkraut has been producing traditional German-style sauerkraut and pickles since 1918. The establishment combines a European deli, restaurant, and specialty food store offering imported goods and local delicacies. Visitors come from across New England to enjoy authentic German cuisine and take home Morse's famous fermented products.
15. Owls Head Transportation Museum
VINTAGE VEHICLE COLLECTION
The Owls Head Transportation Museum houses an impressive collection of antique aircraft, automobiles, motorcycles, bicycles, and carriages. Most vehicles in the collection are maintained in operating condition, with frequent demonstrations and special events throughout the year. The museum's collection tells the story of transportation evolution with rare examples dating back to the late 1800s.