Norway MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Norway, Maine.
1. Books N Things
LITERARY HAVEN DOWNTOWN
Books N Things is a charming bookstore in downtown Norway that offers a wide variety of current titles in a comfortable setting. Visitors can enjoy hanging out with a book in the cozy atmosphere or occasionally attend book signings and historical figure performances. The store also features fun specialty items like unique socks and other interesting merchandise beyond books.
2. The Woods Maine Shop
MAINE OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE BRAND
The Woods Maine Shop is a lifestyle brand and luxury treehouse experience located in the heart of downtown Norway. The shop offers a curated collection of Maine-themed clothing and accessories that celebrate the great outdoors. Visitors can explore various brands that capture the essence of Maine's natural beauty and outdoor culture.
3. The Raven Collections
GEMS AND ARTIFACTS
The Raven Collections is a fascinating specialty shop where visitors can discover minerals, gems, and artifacts. The store provides a unique shopping experience for collectors and those interested in natural treasures. Military discounts are offered to qualifying customers, making it a welcoming spot for veterans.
4. Widdershin's Antiques
VINTAGE TREASURES GALORE
Widdershin's Antiques ranks as one of the top attractions in downtown Norway, offering a collection of vintage items and collectibles. Visitors can browse through historical pieces and unique finds from various eras. The shop provides a nostalgic experience for antique enthusiasts and casual shoppers alike.
5. Lights Out Gallery
LOCAL ART SHOWCASE
Lights Out Gallery is an art gallery in Norway featuring works by local and regional artists. The gallery showcases a variety of artistic styles and mediums, providing cultural enrichment to the downtown area. Art enthusiasts can explore changing exhibitions and perhaps find a special piece to take home.
6. Frost Farm Gallery
ARTISTIC RURAL EXPRESSION
Frost Farm Gallery serves as a cultural hub displaying artwork inspired by rural Maine life and landscapes. The gallery hosts rotating exhibits that highlight the talents of area artists and craftspeople. Visitors can immerse themselves in the artistic interpretation of Maine's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
7. Lajos Matolcsy Arts Center
COMMUNITY ARTS HUB
The Lajos Matolcsy Arts Center is a community-focused venue dedicated to promoting arts education and appreciation in Norway. The center offers various workshops, exhibitions, and cultural events throughout the year. It serves as an important gathering place for artists and art lovers in the western Maine foothills.
8. Food For Thought
VINTAGE MUSIC AND BOOKS
Food For Thought is a nostalgic shop where music lovers can find rare vinyl records like Pink Floyd's Dark Side Of The Moon. The store also features an impressive collection of well-loved vintage books for browsing and purchase. Collectors and casual shoppers alike can spend hours discovering forgotten treasures and cultural classics.
9. The Dragon's Lair
GEEK CULTURE PARADISE
The Dragon's Lair is a specialty shop catering to gaming and pop culture enthusiasts in downtown Norway. The store offers games, comics, Funko Pops, Dungeons & Dragons merchandise, and other collectibles. It serves as a gathering place for the local gaming community and those who appreciate geek culture.
10. Norway Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE PRESERVED
The Norway Historical Society Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of Norway, Maine, including its industrial past as the snowshoe-making capital of America. Exhibits feature artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of the town from its incorporation in 1797 through the Great Norway Fire of 1894 and beyond. Visitors can gain insight into local heritage while exploring the carefully curated collections housed in a historic building.
11. Roberts Farm Preserve
FOUR-SEASON OUTDOOR RECREATION
Roberts Farm Preserve is part of the Western Foothills Land Trust, offering extensive trails for hiking, biking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. The preserve provides beautiful views overlooking Lake Pennesseewassee (Norway Lake) and encompasses diverse natural habitats. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy seasonal activities throughout the year, including the annual Snowshoe Festival held in winter.
12. Ordway Grove
ANCIENT FOREST SANCTUARY
Ordway Grove is a unique natural area featuring ancient oaks and pines, some of which are centuries old. Visitors can hike among these majestic trees on well-maintained trails that showcase Maine's natural heritage. The grove provides a peaceful retreat where nature lovers can experience the quiet grandeur of old-growth forest.
13. McLaughlin Garden & Homestead
HISTORIC BOTANICAL TREASURE
McLaughlin Garden & Homestead features two acres of meticulously maintained gardens surrounding a historic home in nearby South Paris. Visitors can explore diverse plant collections, attend educational lectures, and learn about garden history and horticulture. The garden serves as both a living museum and a serene space for plant enthusiasts to enjoy seasonal blooms and special events.
14. Celebration Barn Theater
PHYSICAL THEATER EXCELLENCE
Celebration Barn Theater is an internationally renowned school for physical theater that attracts performers from around the world. The venue hosts performances by touring artists including actors, dancers, mimes, jugglers, and storytellers throughout its season. Visitors can enjoy unique, high-quality shows in an intimate setting while experiencing this cultural gem in western Maine.
15. Lake Pennesseewassee
SCENIC RECREATION DESTINATION
Lake Pennesseewassee, commonly known as Norway Lake, is a five-mile-long body of water offering year-round recreational opportunities. The lake hosts an annual triathlon each July with proceeds supporting the Western Foothills Land Trust. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and winter activities while taking in beautiful views of the surrounding western Maine landscape.