Whether you arrive early or make a whole weekend of it, here are some of our favorite spots around and on the way to Boothbay Harbor.
On the way to Boothbay
You'll drive through Freeport, Brunswick, and Bath on your way to Boothbay Harbor. Below are some recs if you want to stop and break up the drive.
brunswick
Bowdoin College
Where we met each other and so many of our best friends joining the weekend's celebrations! A gorgeous campus worth a stroll. If you have time, Bowdoin's Art and Arctic museums on campus are great and free.
For food, delicious and easy options include Wild Oats, Big Top Deli, Dutchman's Bagels, and Brunswick Diner. For shopping, there are many stores along Maine St including our favorite, Lemont Block Collective, for art and gifts handmade by local Maine artists.
freeport
L.L. Bean & More
The original L.L. Bean flagship store is open 24/7, and is surrounded by dozens of major outlets and local shops. Lily's Food Cart sells the best mini dumplings in a cup. The Bakeshop serves amazing sandwiches, homemade fries, and baked goods.
bath
City of Ships
Bath is a charming historic town known for its maritime history. Some of our favorite restaurants include Mae's Cafe & Bakery for brunch, The Cabin for pizza, and Sister's Gourmet Deli for sandwiches.
harpswell & bailey island
Coastal Views
Slightly out of the way to Boothbay Harbor... Harpswell, Bailey Island, and Orr's Island have amazing coastal views and walking trails.
We'd recommend going to Bowdoin Coastal Studies Center, Harpswell's Mitchell Field, or the Giant Steps if you want to get out of the car, walk around, and soak in the Maine coast. Cook's Lobster & Ale House on Bailey Island and Dolphin Marina Restaurant in Harpswell are amazing dining options on the water.
Portland
Whether you're flying into Portland or driving through it, it's an incredible food hub and worth exploring on foot — especially the Old Port. Here are a few of our favorites...
food
Restaurants
Scales · Even Tide · The Honey Paw · Flatbread Pizza Co · Mr Tuna · LB Kitchen · Forage Market · Luncheonette
drinks
Bars
Maps · Cuties · The Porthole · Dry Dock · Allagash Brewing Company
shopping
Stores
Soleil · Moody Lord's Vintage & Vinyl · Mainely Frames & Gallery · The Salt Cellar