Lowell MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Lowell, Maine.
1. Lowell National Historical Park
HISTORIC URBAN PARK
Lowell National Historical Park preserves the rich legacy of the American Industrial Revolution in the heart of Lowell. Visitors can explore restored red-brick mills, walk along historic canals, and take guided tours detailing the city's transformation from a rural farming town into an industrial powerhouse. The park offers engaging exhibits and seasonal boat tours that provide insights into Lowell's unique history.
2. Boott Cotton Mills Museum
TEXTILE INDUSTRY MUSEUM
The Boott Cotton Mills Museum lets guests experience the industrial age through its working looms and interactive exhibits. The museum highlights the life of the "mill girls" and examines the social and technological innovations of 19th-century textile mills. Audio tours and live demonstrations offer a vivid sense of what life and work were like during Lowell's mill era.
3. Whistler House Museum of Art
HISTORIC ART GALLERY
Whistler House Museum of Art occupies the birthplace of James McNeill Whistler, the famed American artist. The museum showcases 19th-century and contemporary American art, with special emphasis on local and regional artists. Its rotating exhibitions and permanent collections offer both historic and modern perspectives in a beautifully preserved setting.
4. Lowell's Boat Shop
LIVING MARITIME MUSEUM
Lowell's Boat Shop is the oldest continuously operating boat shop in the United States, founded in 1793. It provides hands-on exhibits about traditional boatbuilding techniques and the region's shipbuilding heritage. Visitors can watch craftspeople at work and learn about the shop's influence on American maritime history.
5. Brush Art Gallery and Studios
CONTEMPORARY ART SPACE
The Brush Art Gallery and Studios is situated along the canals in the historic district, offering rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. The gallery is home to working artist studios and provides a vibrant community space for workshops, classes, and events. Its diverse programming celebrates local talent and creative expression.
6. Kerouac Park
LITERARY HERITAGE PARK
Kerouac Park honors the legacy of Jack Kerouac, the celebrated Beat Generation author who was born in Lowell. The park features engraved granite columns with excerpts from Kerouac's writings and serves as a gathering place for literary fans and outdoor events. Its tranquil setting along the Merrimack River invites reflection and creativity.
7. Lowell Memorial Auditorium
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
Lowell Memorial Auditorium is a landmark venue hosting a range of performances from Broadway shows to concerts and community events. Built in 1922, its grand architecture and acoustics make it a premier destination for live entertainment in the region. The auditorium also features memorials honoring local veterans.
8. Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell
ARENA AND EVENT SPACE
The Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell is a multi-purpose arena that hosts hockey games, concerts, family shows, and major events throughout the year. As the home of the UMass Lowell River Hawks, it draws energetic crowds for collegiate sports. Its modern amenities and central location make it a key fixture in the city's entertainment scene.
9. Concord River
SCENIC WATERWAY
The Concord River winds through Lowell, offering opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and riverside walks. Its historic significance includes powering the early mills that fueled the city's industrial rise. The river is also a picturesque spot for wildlife observation and peaceful escapes close to downtown.
10. Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center
GATEWAY TO LOCAL HISTORY
The Lowell National Historical Park Visitor Center serves as the starting point for exploring the area's rich industrial past. It offers informational exhibits, park maps, and orientation films to help visitors plan their experience. Knowledgeable staff are on hand to provide recommendations and guide visitors to nearby attractions.
11. Lowell Folk Festival
ANNUAL CULTURAL CELEBRATION
The Lowell Folk Festival is one of the largest free folk festivals in the United States, drawing crowds with music, dance, crafts, and global cuisine. Held every summer, the festival transforms downtown with vibrant performances and artisan demonstrations. It is a showcase of the city's diversity and community spirit.
12. Cobblestones of Lowell
UPSCALE AMERICAN DINING
Cobblestones of Lowell is a renowned restaurant housed in a restored 19th-century building, serving classic American fare with contemporary flair. The menu features steaks, seafood, and creative appetizers in a historic, upscale setting. Its location near downtown makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
13. Mill No. 5
UNIQUE SHOPPING & ENTERTAINMENT
Mill No. 5 is a revitalized textile mill offering boutique shops, indie movie screenings, a farmers market, and quirky cafes. Its vintage-inspired décor and creative tenants make it a hub for shopping and entertainment. Regular events and pop-ups provide a dynamic, ever-changing atmosphere for discovering local artisans and makers.
14. Owl's Head Blueberry Farm
SEASONAL U-PICK FARM
Owl's Head Blueberry Farm offers visitors the chance to pick their own blueberries in a scenic rural setting during the summer months. The farm is located just outside downtown Lowell, Maine, and provides family-friendly outdoor fun. Its locally grown berries are a regional favorite and a delicious summer treat.
15. Timber Hitch Farmhouse
FARM-TO-TABLE EATERY
Timber Hitch Farmhouse in nearby Lincoln, Maine, is a popular farm-to-table restaurant celebrated for its use of local ingredients and comfort food classics. The cozy atmosphere and rotating seasonal menu attract both residents and tourists looking for a rural dining experience. Their hospitality and homemade dishes make it a memorable stop.