Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Rumford, Maine

The town now known as Rumford was originally established in the 1770s under the name New Pennacook.

Renowned for its extensive tracts of forest, New England has historically served as a significant hub for paper manufacturing. For a considerable portion of its history, Rumford’s chief employer has been ND Paper.

This town is situated in the west-central region of Maine’s Oxford County and is enveloped by forests, mountains, rivers, and lakes, which attract visitors from throughout the state.

The Anasagunticook River serves as a premier recreational site for boaters, swimmers, and anglers, and it also hosts the largest waterfall east of Niagara.

Presented below are 15 activities to pursue in and around Rumford, Maine.

1. Grafton Notch State Park

Situated just off Route 26 between the towns of Upton and Newry, Grafton Notch State Park lies adjacent to the state’s Scenic Byway, attracting nature enthusiasts, bird-watchers, and outdoor aficionados alike.

The park encompasses nearly 3,000 acres of rugged and picturesque landscape, featuring waterfalls, caves, and a variety of easily navigable trails.

Screw Auger and Mother Walker Falls represent some of the park’s most frequented attractions. Along the trails, scattered picnic tables and BBQ grills provide ideal spots for a midday respite or a charming picnic.

2. Mystic Theater

While New York City’s famous theaters, with their dazzling venues and high-priced tickets, consistently attract large audiences, those with an appreciation for drama, comedy, and music who find themselves in rural Rumford can enjoy a delightful and affordable alternative.

Housed in a refurbished church on Franklin Street, the Mystic Theater has emerged as a key recreation destination for both residents and visitors.

In addition to producing well-known plays and musicals, the venue can accommodate special events such as birthdays and weddings.

Both floors of the theater are accessible to individuals using wheelchairs.

3. Mount Blue State Park

With sandy beaches, clear waters, and abundant campsites, Mount Blue State Park is a favored destination for outdoor recreation. Its central location ensures that visitors to Rumford do not need to spend excessive time traveling back and forth.

The park features multi-use trails accessible to horseback riders, all-terrain vehicles, and mountain biking enthusiasts. Several trails lead to exceptional viewpoints that reward those willing to exert the effort with stunning vistas.

The entrance to the park is located on Center Hill Road, near Weld. While it can become crowded during peak periods, its vast area allows for the opportunity to find a tranquil spot away from the crowds.

4. Rumford Falls

Positioned along the picturesque Androscoggin River, Rumford Falls was not officially recognized until the late 1800s. A century later, it became home to a hydroelectric power facility that supplied electricity to the town’s residences and commercial businesses.

Although the falls, which once cascaded nearly 180 feet straight down, are now divided into several smaller segments, they remain a breathtaking sight, particularly when the water flows robustly.

Unlike many waterfalls, Rumford Falls is conveniently located in town, allowing for easy viewing even from a vehicle.

5. Belgrade Lakes Region

Central Maine’s Belgrade Lakes Region ranks among the state’s most picturesque areas, particularly popular during the summer months when the weather is optimal.

The region encompasses seven lakes set within stunning natural scenery, along with charming towns that are worth exploring.

The Belgrade Lakes Region stretches from the central coast inward, providing a convenient day trip option for those based in Rumford.

During winter, the area surrounding the lakes offers excellent opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, while ice fishing and hunting are also prevalent.

6. Good Karma Cafe and Health Foods

Situated on Congress Street in Rumford, Good Karma Café and Health Foods is an ideal stop for wholesome and nutritious fare prior to embarking on your explorations.

With a diverse menu featuring wraps, sandwiches, soups, and salads, the café emphasizes fresh, locally sourced ingredients in nearly all its offerings, which are prepared on-site.

This family-owned establishment boasts a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits.

Additionally, they offer freshly baked goods as well as coffee available by the cup or in bags—perfect souvenirs for those who were unable to join the journey.

7. Black Mountain of Maine

While it may not rival larger regional ski resorts such as Killington and Stowe, Black Mountain of Maine offers a variety of alpine trails. It is particularly celebrated for its extensive cross-country skiing trails, which span nearly 15 miles through the adjacent forests and mountains.

In total, Black Mountain boasts close to 50 downhill courses serviced by two chairlifts, along with amenities such as storage lockers and a cozy lodge where visitors can relax with a hot chocolate or cold beer and enjoy a comforting bowl of chili after spending hours on the slopes.

For current conditions and opening dates, check their website.

8. J. Eugene Boivin Park

Located in charming Rumford Falls, J. Eugene Boivin Park serves as a valuable community asset, available for public use year-round from dawn until dusk.

From the park, visitors can easily access the scenic Pennacook Falls. A town welcome center stocked with magazines, pamphlets, and coupons invites exploration and provides additional activity options that may not have been previously known.

For those interested in a guided experience, staff at the welcome center can facilitate arrangements; however, the town is ideally set up for independent exploration.

9. McLaughlin Garden and Homestead

Established in 1936 by an individual driven by passion, McLaughlin Garden and Homestead on Main Street in South Paris remains largely unchanged from its inception nearly a century ago.

The visionary behind this garden was Bernard McLaughlin, who, despite lacking formal training in botany, became one of the most esteemed experts in the state.

Today, the garden and homestead continue to thrive posthumously under the management of a non-profit organization dedicated to their preservation and accessibility to the public.

Featuring a rich assortment of trees, shrubs, and flowers, the garden is a site of historical significance and natural beauty that ought to be experienced.

10. Celebration Barn Theater

Also situated in South Paris, the Celebration Barn Theater is a platform where numerous aspiring actors, musicians, and performers take their initial steps before progressing to the national stage.

It is rumored that the theater has achieved international recognition, attracting a diverse audience eager for experience and training that will propel their careers forward.

Located on Stock Farm Road, the theater provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy remarkable performances without incurring significant expenses.

To view their event calendar, refer to their website prior to planning your visit.

11. Deca Holiday Craft Fair

The Deca Holiday Craft Fair occurs on Main Street in South Paris, always scheduled for the Saturday prior to Thanksgiving.

Deca is an international organization with local chapters primarily composed of marketing and business students seeking real-world experience as part of their education.

The majority of the craft fair is organized by students, with proceeds from sales benefiting their organization.

Featuring over 100 vendors, the craft fair also provides door prizes contributed by local businesses, so remember to mark your calendar for November to attend.

12. Norway Music and Arts Festival

Hosted on Main Street in Norway, the Norway Music and Arts Festival is a family-friendly event that is both convenient and economical. In addition to music, dance, and theater performances, various activities are available for children.

The festival takes place on the second Saturday in July, providing ample opportunities for families to spend an entire day enjoying all the offerings.

The event comprises an arts and crafts show, a circus, and a concert, ensuring there is something for everyone in attendance.

13. Bethel HarvestFest

Celebrating the traditional harvest season that bridges summer and autumn, the Bethel Harvest Fest occurs in September at the Town Common area on Broad Street.

The event features arts and crafts, live entertainment, and a farmer’s market, offering more than enough activities to warrant a day of exploration.

Among the perennial favorites are the chowder—affectionately pronounced ‘chow-duh’ in New England—and apple pie competitions, attracting participants ranging from professional chefs to home cooks.

Admission is affordable, and the festival provides numerous activities tailored for younger attendees.

14. Maine State Museum

Boasting four floors of exceptional displays and exhibits, the Maine State Museum in Augusta offers an insightful journey through the state’s history, culture, arts, and natural environment.

Notable exhibits include those focusing on the Ice Age and the Native American cultures that occupied the region for countless generations prior to European exploration.

The museum is located on State Street in downtown Augusta and operates on varying hours throughout the week, so it is advisable to verify their website before making a special visit.

15. Viles Arboretum

Located in Augusta, Viles Arboretum features over 200 species of plants, trees, and flowers, many of which are native, while others are sourced from various parts of the world.

The grounds are accessible daily from dawn to dusk and encompass more than 200 acres of cultivated gardens interconnected by well-maintained trails.

First-time visitors are advised to stop by the reception area for a map and an overview of the grounds.

Dogs are permitted, provided they are kept on a leash, and visitors must ensure proper cleanup after them.

The entrance to the arboretum is located on Hospital Street.