New Gloucester MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near New Gloucester, Maine.
1. Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village
LIVING SHAKER HISTORY
Sabbathday Lake Shaker Village is the last active Shaker village in the United States, offering visitors a glimpse into this unique religious community. The village features preserved historic buildings, beautiful gardens, and a museum showcasing Shaker crafts and lifestyle. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about Shaker principles, see demonstrations of traditional crafts, and experience the peaceful atmosphere that has characterized this community since its founding.
2. Pineland Farms
AGRICULTURAL EDUCATION CENTER
Pineland Farms is a 5,000-acre working farm and educational campus offering visitors numerous recreational activities and learning opportunities. The facility includes a creamery producing artisanal cheeses, vegetable and livestock farming operations, and miles of trails for walking, biking, and cross-country skiing. Visitors can enjoy farm tours, educational programs about sustainable agriculture, and purchase fresh farm products at their market.
3. Thompson's Orchards
FAMILY APPLE PICKING
Thompson's Orchards is a family-owned apple orchard offering pick-your-own experiences during harvest season. The orchard grows multiple apple varieties and features a farm store selling fresh cider, baked goods, and seasonal produce. Families can enjoy the scenic countryside views while selecting their own apples straight from the trees.
4. Norumbega Cidery
CRAFT HARD CIDER
Norumbega Cidery produces small-batch hard ciders using traditional methods and locally sourced apples. The cidery offers tastings where visitors can sample various cider styles ranging from dry to semi-sweet in their rustic tasting room. Their production facility showcases the cider-making process from pressing to fermentation to bottling.
5. Pineland Farms Cross Country Skiing
WINTER RECREATION TRAILS
Pineland Farms Cross Country Skiing provides over 30 kilometers of professionally groomed trails through beautiful Maine countryside. The facility offers equipment rentals, lessons for beginners, and trails suitable for all skill levels from novice to advanced skiers. During winter months, visitors can enjoy the pristine snow-covered landscape while getting exercise on these well-maintained Nordic trails.
6. New Gloucester Historical Society & Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The New Gloucester Historical Society & Museum preserves and displays artifacts related to the town's rich history dating back to its 1774 incorporation. The museum houses collections of photographs, documents, textiles, and everyday items used by early settlers and residents through the centuries. Visitors can learn about the town's development, notable residents, and historical events that shaped New Gloucester.
7. Royal River Conservation Trust Intervale & Pisgah
PRESERVED NATURAL LANDS
The Royal River Conservation Trust manages preserved lands including Intervale and Pisgah Hill, offering public access to natural areas and hiking trails. These conservation areas protect important wildlife habitat while providing recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy Maine's natural beauty. Hiking trails wind through forests, fields, and alongside waterways, showcasing diverse ecosystems and scenic vistas.
8. The Market at Pineland Farms
GOURMET FOOD SHOPPING
The Market at Pineland Farms offers a premium shopping experience featuring the farm's own dairy products, meats, and fresh produce. The market also carries specialty foods, wines, craft beers, and locally made gifts in a charming farm setting. Visitors can sample award-winning cheeses produced on-site and enjoy prepared foods from their deli counter.
9. The Commons at Pineland
CASUAL FARM DINING
The Commons at Pineland offers farm-to-table dining featuring ingredients grown and produced at Pineland Farms. The casual restaurant serves breakfast and lunch options including sandwiches, salads, and baked goods in a comfortable setting. Diners can enjoy views of the working farm while sampling dishes made with ultra-fresh ingredients raised just steps from the kitchen.
10. Bradbury Mountain State Park
SCENIC HIKING DESTINATION
Bradbury Mountain State Park is located just minutes from New Gloucester, offering a 485-acre recreational area with hiking trails leading to panoramic summit views. The park is especially popular during fall foliage season and spring hawk migration when birdwatchers gather to observe raptors. Visitors can enjoy picnicking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and snowshoeing or cross-country skiing in winter months.
11. Poland Spring Resort
HISTORIC VACATION DESTINATION
Poland Spring Resort is a historic vacation destination near New Gloucester featuring golf courses, dining options, and accommodations in a picturesque setting. The resort dates back to 1794 and is famous for its connection to Poland Spring water, with the original spring and bottling museum on the property. Visitors can enjoy recreational activities, explore historic buildings, and dine with views of the White Mountains.
12. Maine Wildlife Park
NATIVE ANIMAL SANCTUARY
Maine Wildlife Park, located near New Gloucester in Gray, houses over 30 species of native Maine wildlife that cannot be released into the wild. The park provides up-close viewing of moose, black bears, lynx, bald eagles, and other animals in naturalistic habitats. Visitors can learn about wildlife conservation through educational exhibits, feeding demonstrations, and nature programs throughout the park.
13. Shaker Woods Reserve
PEACEFUL FOREST TRAILS
Shaker Woods Reserve offers a network of peaceful woodland trails ideal for hiking, nature observation, and quiet contemplation. The 119-acre preserve features paths along the western shore of Sabbathday Lake with connections to the Shaker Village. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil forest setting while exploring terrain once used by the Shaker community for timber, firewood, and recreation.
14. Outlet Beach
FAMILY SWIMMING SPOT
Outlet Beach provides a family-friendly swimming area on Sabbathday Lake with sandy shores and clear water. The beach offers amenities including picnic tables, changing facilities, and areas for relaxation along the lakeshore. Visitors can cool off during summer months while enjoying views of the surrounding hills and forests.
15. Spring Meadows Golf Club
SCENIC 18-HOLE COURSE
Spring Meadows Golf Club features an 18-hole championship course just minutes from New Gloucester in a beautiful natural setting. The course offers challenging play for experienced golfers while remaining accessible to beginners, with practice facilities and professional instruction available. After a round, players can enjoy meals and refreshments at the clubhouse restaurant while overlooking the meticulously maintained fairways.