Oakland MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Oakland, Maine.
1. Oakland Waterfront Park
SCENIC LAKESIDE RECREATION
Oakland Waterfront Park offers beautiful views of Messalonskee Lake with ample space for picnics and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy swimming during summer months and observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. The park provides a peaceful retreat for both locals and tourists seeking connection with nature.
2. Snow Pond Cruises
SERENE LAKE TOURS
Snow Pond Cruises provides scenic boat tours on Messalonskee Lake, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Oakland from the water. Passengers can learn about the local history and ecosystem while enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the lake. The cruise offers opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing in a relaxed setting.
3. Messalonskee Stream Trail
WOODLAND HIKING PATH
The Messalonskee Stream Trail meanders through woodlands and along the stream's banks, providing an ideal setting for hiking and birdwatching. Nature enthusiasts can observe diverse flora and fauna while enjoying the peaceful sounds of flowing water. The well-maintained path offers accessible outdoor recreation for visitors of all ages.
4. Kennebec Valley Trail
SCENIC RAIL TRAIL
The Kennebec Valley Trail is a converted rail trail that offers scenic biking and walking routes through charming Maine countryside. Visitors can experience the natural beauty of the region while enjoying a smooth, relatively flat path suitable for multiple activities. The trail connects several communities, allowing for extended exploration of the area.
5. Oakland Historical Society Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
The Oakland Historical Society Museum preserves and displays artifacts that tell the story of the town's development and cultural heritage. Exhibits highlight significant events, notable residents, and industries that shaped Oakland throughout its history. Visitors gain insight into Maine's past through photographs, documents, and carefully curated collections.
6. North East Carry
HISTORIC PORTAGE ROUTE
North East Carry represents a historic portage route used by Native Americans and early explorers traversing Maine's waterways. This site offers visitors a connection to the region's transportation history and the challenges faced by early inhabitants. Interpretive information helps modern visitors appreciate the significance of this route in the development of trade and communication networks.
7. Preservation Park
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL SHOWCASE
Preservation Park features a collection of 16 restored Victorian structures that transport visitors back to the late 1800s. The gated area creates a cohesive historic district where architectural details and period landscaping can be appreciated. Walking tours provide context for these beautifully preserved buildings and their significance to Oakland's development.
8. Belgrade Lakes
PRIME BOATING DESTINATION
The Belgrade Lakes region near Oakland offers exceptional recreational opportunities with its chain of connected waterways. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports in this pristine natural setting. The area's scenic beauty makes it a popular destination for both day trips and extended vacations throughout the summer season.
9. Colby College Campus
PRESTIGIOUS EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION
Colby College campus near Oakland features beautiful architecture and landscaped grounds open for visitors to explore. The campus houses the Colby College Museum of Art, which boasts an impressive collection of American art and regularly hosts special exhibitions. Visitors can experience the collegiate atmosphere while enjoying walking paths, gardens, and cultural offerings throughout the year.
10. Mockingbird Restaurant
VIBRANT CASUAL DINING
Mockingbird Restaurant serves delicious food in a vibrant, informal atmosphere that welcomes both locals and visitors. The menu features carefully crafted dishes made with fresh, high-quality ingredients sourced from the region. Diners appreciate the attentive service and inviting ambiance that make this establishment a standout in Oakland's culinary scene.
11. Roasted and Raw
HEALTHY VEGAN CUISINE
Roasted and Raw offers an appealing menu of healthy vegan options that cater to environmentally and health-conscious diners. The restaurant emphasizes fresh, whole-food ingredients prepared in creative ways that showcase natural flavors. Both vegans and non-vegans enjoy the varied offerings that demonstrate the diversity and satisfaction possible with plant-based dining.
12. Coco Noir Wine Shop
DIVERSE WINE SELECTION
Coco Noir Wine Shop serves as a welcoming gathering spot to enjoy wines and small bites created by diverse winemakers and chefs. The shop specializes in selections from BIPOC, POC, and women producers, highlighting voices often underrepresented in the wine industry. Visitors can participate in tastings, educational events, and social gatherings that celebrate wine culture in an inclusive environment.
13. Queen Hippie Gypsy
BLACK-OWNED CRYSTAL BOTANICA
Queen Hippie Gypsy stands as Oakland's first Black-owned Crystal Botanica, offering a sanctuary for those interested in crystals, herbs, and spiritual items. The shop provides a carefully curated selection of products along with knowledge about their traditional uses and significance. Visitors appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the opportunity to support a unique, minority-owned business in the community.
14. Renegade Running
COMMUNITY RUNNING STORE
Renegade Running serves as both a retail store and community hub for running enthusiasts in the Oakland area. The shop offers quality footwear, apparel, and accessories specifically selected for runners of all levels. Beyond retail, the business organizes group runs, training programs, and events that foster connection among local athletes.
15. Remember Them Monument
CHAMPIONS FOR HUMANITY
The Remember Them: Champions for Humanity Monument stands proudly as a tribute to individuals who have made significant contributions to social justice and human rights. The impressive installation features detailed sculptures that encourage reflection on history and inspire visitors to consider their own potential for positive impact. Educational panels provide context about the featured champions and their legacies.