Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Waterboro, Maine

Waterboro is a quaint city home to approximately 7,000 residents, situated in York County, Maine. The city, originally named Massabesic, which translates to “the place of much water” in the Abenaki language, boasts numerous lakes.

The land was first purchased by Major William Phillips in 1661, eventually passing on to his descendants and various proprietors, including Colonel Joshua Waters, whose name inspired the city’s final designation.

Incorporated as a town in 1790, Waterboro’s economy once thrived on lumber, agriculture, and dairy farming.

1. Hike to the Ossipee Hill Summit

This engaging, family-friendly trail leads you through serene woods to the summit of Ossipee Hill. In addition to hiking, options for mountain biking, jogging, and dog-walking exist on this path, as well as ATV riding.

The hike is manageable in length and offers rewarding views from the top. Depending on the season, you may also discover an abundance of blueberries along the way.

While some advise climbing the old fire tower for the best view, caution is advised as the tower is both aged and abandoned.

2. Have Lunch at Woody’s Sports Grille

Renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, Woody’s Sports Grille stands out as one of Waterboro’s premier dining establishments, with patrons claiming it serves the finest burgers in New England.

The menu features an impressive array of delectable options, ranging from renowned burgers to wings, fries, nachos, salads, sandwiches, steaks, seafood, and more.

For dessert, patrons may indulge in a sumptuous cheesecake or delightful peanut butter pie.

3. Have Fun at Little Ossipee Lake

Despite its name, Little Ossipee Lake is quite expansive and deep, home to loons, bald eagles, and a variety of bird species, alongside multiple fish species.

This tranquil lake presents excellent opportunities for fishing, catering to both seasoned anglers and beginners. Numerous water sports, including boating and jet skiing, are readily available.

A nearby campground adds to the allure, and overall, the lake is known for its cleanliness and preservation.

4. Stroll through Goodall Park

If you find yourself in the vicinity on a delightful summer day, make your way to this park, which features numerous picturesque paths, benches, and a playground for children.

Facilities include a baseball field and a basketball court, where, should a game be underway, you might witness the Sanford Mainers baseball team in action.

This park provides a secure and inviting environment, perfect for spending a pleasant afternoon with family or pets.

5. Have a Beer at the Funky Bow Brewery

After a lengthy stroll in the park, there is no better way to refresh yourself than with a chilled beverage from Funky Bow Brewery & Beer Company.

The brewery offers a diverse selection of beers, along with pizzas and snacks. However, it is the attentive staff that truly distinguishes this establishment, as they strive to ensure an enjoyable experience.

Live music performances are common, allowing you to savor your brew while enjoying a delightful ambiance.

6. Visit the Alfred Shaker Museum

The Shaker community, which thrived in the nearby town of Alfred, originally included a musician who later expanded their pursuits into art, furniture-making, design, and agriculture.

This museum, housed within a converted barn, features an extensive collection of artifacts, including tools, crafts, photographs, and clothing that once belonged to Shaker community members. It represents a compelling destination for history enthusiasts.

Moreover, the museum hosts lectures, craft exhibitions, and workshops, appealing to both local residents and visitors alike.

7. Visit the Seashore Trolley Museum

Situated in Kennebunkport, this museum is recognized as the largest electric railway museum in the world. Among its many intriguing displays, you will find vintage trains, trolleys, trams, and buses.

This venue provides an engaging experience for families; visitors can easily spend several hours appreciating the exhibits and taking photographs. Additionally, there may be opportunities to ride on antique rail cars.

8. Relax at Parsons Beach

Located in Kennebunk, with access to the Atlantic Ocean, Parsons Beach is a charming sandy expanse and a favored destination for tourists. Visitors may choose to relax on the beach, swim, or leisurely stroll along the shoreline.

The beach is spacious enough to accommodate hundreds, remaining clean and well-maintained, typically offering a tranquil environment without loud parties.

It serves as an enchanting locale to enjoy a warm, sunny afternoon.

9. Pick Berries at Joan & Brad’s Berry Farm

This quaint, family-operated blueberry farm allows visitors to hand-pick their own fruits, paying by the pound.

Alternatively, if you prefer not to pick your own, fresh berries are available for direct purchase. The experience is enjoyable, with ample blueberries available and friendly, helpful staff.

Recently, the farm expanded its offerings to include raspberries, enhancing the picking experience.

10. Go Cross Country Skiing at Harris Farm

This expansive dairy farm encompasses 500 acres and offers 40 kilometers of meticulously groomed cross-country ski trails, accommodating both classic and skate skiing techniques, suitable for all skill levels.

The facility includes a ski lodge, complete with a cozy lobby where guests can enjoy hot beverages and snacks during breaks.

For first-time skiers, lessons are available by appointment, alongside equipment rentals.

11. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth at Thurston and Peters Sugarhouse

The ice cream offered at this establishment has been described by many as extraordinary. The distinct flavor is attributed to their pure maple syrup, which is available for purchase separately.

A variety of syrups is produced on-site, including light, dark, and amber grades.

This family-operated business is managed by friendly owners who are more than willing to assist in selecting the perfect maple syrup.

Property tours are also conducted, illustrating the maple syrup production process from start to finish, alongside information about the ideal conditions for achieving high-quality maple syrup.

12. Shop at Snell Family Farm

For those seeking fresh, organic produce, along with unique herbs and beautiful flowers, Snell Family Farm is the ideal stop. The knowledgeable and amiable vendors ensure a pleasant shopping experience.

By choosing this farm, shoppers are supporting the local economy and promoting sustainable agriculture. In the lead-up to Halloween, a variety of pumpkins can also be found here.

13. Have Dinner at the Harris Turkey Farm

This family-run establishment is renowned for its gourmet pot pies and soups, crafted from turkeys raised sustainably on-site.

The farm prioritizes animal welfare, ensuring their turkeys are reared in humane conditions, which in turn results in superior meat quality.

A store on the premises offers various items, including pottery, gifts, wine, and maple syrup.

14. Watch a Show at the Saco River Theatre

This theatre aims to enrich the local community through various plays, shows, programs, and exhibitions, fostering connections between residents and the arts.

Initially constructed in 1897 as a chapel, it transitioned into a community social center for Bar Mills, later serving as an auction house until its conversion to a theatre in 1990.

The passionate owners and staff dedicate themselves to the arts, evident in every performance they present.

15. Stop by De Wolfe and Wood Rare Books

For avid readers, especially those with a penchant for antiquarian literature, this destination is a must. The collection features a wide range of antique and rare books with historical significance.

Guests should not expect pristine, contemporary volumes; many books show signs of age and wear, adding to their charm and authenticity.

Should visitors possess old books they wish to part with, appraisals can be arranged at this location.