Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Farmington, Maine

Situated in Franklin County, Maine, Farmington is a town with a population of just under 8,000, largely recognized for its annual fair and the University of Maine extension campus.

The area has been inhabited by several Native American tribes for centuries prior to European settlement, and much of this heritage can be explored through the various museums available in the region.

As with many towns in New England, the economy was initially supported by timber, furs, and agriculture. However, tourism now plays a significant role in its economic landscape.

Founded in the late 18th century, Farmington serves as an excellent base for experiencing the many attractions that the area has to offer.

The following are 15 activities to engage in while visiting Farmington and its surroundings.

1. The Nordica Homestead Museum

Regardless of your interest in opera, the Nordica Homestead Museum in Farmington is a significant local landmark that merits attention.

This museum was formerly the residence of Lillian Nordica, a renowned artist of her time whose fame was comparable to contemporary pop stars.

Access to the museum is exclusively through guided tours, which provide valuable insights into her intriguing history and the period she lived in.

Additionally, it is noteworthy that Ms. Nordica was among the first celebrity ambassadors for Coca-Cola, explaining the presence of vintage beverage memorabilia within the museum’s exhibits.

2. UMF Art Gallery

Regarded as a true treasure by both locals and visitors, the University of Maine Art Gallery captivates art enthusiasts and budding artists alike with its outstanding exhibits and facilities.

The gallery does not possess permanent exhibitions but showcases rotating displays from various institutions, ensuring that each visit presents a unique experience.

Conveniently located on Main Street in Farmington, much of the featured artwork is the creation of local, regional, and emerging artists.

3. Farmington Fair

Taking place annually in September, the Farmington Fair is a hallmark event for the town, showcasing an array of activities typical of a small-town fair.

Hosted at the Farmington Fairgrounds, it features elements of rodeo, art and craft exhibitions, and carnival attractions.

This family-friendly event is an excellent way to enjoy a day, particularly for travelers yearning for the quaint charm that often eludes modern society.

The fair is particularly noted for its delectable food offerings and live entertainment, and given its extensive offerings, the admission is reasonably priced.

4. Farmington Underground

Situated on Church Street in Farmington, Farmington Underground escape rooms offer an engaging way to spend an afternoon for those craving excitement, teamwork, and intellectual challenges.

The objective is to collaboratively engage with teammates to solve puzzles and riddles, hopefully leading to a successful escape from a hypothetical zombie apocalypse.

For those unfamiliar with escape rooms, they provide an entertaining and memorable experience.

They are quite affordable and can be enjoyed year-round, making them a practical option compared to many outdoor recreational activities.

5. The University of Maine at Farmington

Established in the 1860s primarily as a teachers’ college, Western State Normal College integrated into the University of Maine system in the late 1960s.

The scenic campus serves as an enjoyable venue for leisurely walks, with a variety of ongoing activities ranging from sports to theater performances.

Moreover, educational classes open to the public are frequently conducted at colleges and universities; these are typically low-cost or even complimentary.

To stay informed about upcoming events, checking their event calendar is highly recommended.

6. Wilson Lake

New England features numerous ponds, lakes, and bogs of various shapes and sizes, making it easy to discover tranquil spots mostly undisrupted by crowds.

Wilson Lake, located near the charming town of Wilton, is an ideal destination for a day immersed in nature.

Activities such as swimming, walking, and fishing are prevalent, providing visitors with a refreshing feeling of seclusion.

The lake can be accessed via Lake Road, with a straightforward drive from Farmington.

For a delightful morning or afternoon snack, consider a stop at the well-regarded Collins Bakery for some fresh pastries.

7. Maine State Museum

Situated in Augusta, the capital of Maine, the Maine State Museum presents a captivating selection of exhibits focusing on history, culture, science, and art, making it one of the state’s premier museums.

A notable exhibit is dedicated to the Native American populations that resided in the region millennia before European colonization.

Additionally, the museum features an exhibit on Maine’s economy, highlighting products the state is renowned for. A local aquarium showcasing native fish species also captivates younger visitors.

The museum operates year-round and offers affordable admission.

8. Fort Western

The Fort Western historic site features the oldest wooden garrison and fort structure in the United States, completed in 1754.

Today, this restored fort serves as a history museum documenting New England’s past from the 17th to the 19th centuries.

Despite the age of some artifacts being replicas, several pieces are original, providing visitors with invaluable insights into the challenging conditions of earlier eras.

Opting for a guided tour enhances the experience, as it is generally an economical choice.

9. State Capitol

Located in Augusta, the Maine Statehouse is an architecturally distinguished government building characterized by its grand proportions and understated aesthetic.

A resemblance to the Capitol dome in Washington, D.C., stems from the fact that this building was designed by the same architect.

The Hall of Flags is a significant attraction within the building, with staff available to answer inquiries and assist in navigating the site.

Ample and affordable parking is accessible nearby, while the downtown area provides an excellent opportunity for a leisurely morning or afternoon walk.

10. Winslow Homer’s Studio

Although it may be fairly expensive, touring the residence and studio of celebrated artist Winslow Homer presents an invaluable experience. However, due to the duration and cost, it may not be ideal for families with young children.

Guided tours generally last 2.5 hours and cover the home, studio, and key locations where Homer created many of his famous seascapes.

This excursion is particularly beneficial for amateur artists and art enthusiasts, offering insights into the artist’s life and work that surpass initial expectations.

The studio is situated in nearby Prouts Neck.

11. Fort Halifax State Historic Site

Established in the mid-18th century, Fort Halifax State Historic Site in Winslow is recognized as one of the original and best-preserved blockhouses in the nation.

“Blockhouses” refers to the square-shaped design of the structure, which was strategically devised for defense against attacks from multiple directions.

This site encompasses numerous historical exhibits and plaques, providing visitors with intriguing insights into periods before and during the Revolutionary War.

Situated alongside the banks of the Kennebec River, the site features covered picnic areas and a small amphitheater that hosts performances during the warm summer months.

12. Sonny’s Museum

Combining attributes of a museum, gift shop, and rock and gem boutique, Sonny’s Museum is a unique destination worth exploring for distinctive items not found elsewhere.

Specializing in rocks, gems, and handcrafted jewelry, each offering is unique and invites careful examination.

Sonny’s is conveniently located on Water Street in Augusta, with a clientele largely comprised of referrals and repeat visitors, indicating a strong reputation for quality.

It is advisable to visit Sonny’s on a day when exploring various attractions in the state capital.

13. Bigelow Brewing Company

Offering a diverse range of microbrews paired with some of the finest pizza in the vicinity, Bigelow Brewing Company creates a welcoming environment complete with attentive service and live entertainment during the summer months.

Located on Bigelow Hill Road in Skowhegan, the brewery frequently updates its beer selection, ensuring that patrons experience a variety of flavors and styles during each visit.

For those less acquainted with beer varieties, ordering a sampler allows for tasting multiple styles before making a selection.

In addition to their pizza, a comprehensive menu featuring appetizing dishes complements the brewing experience.

14. Skowhegan Riverwalk

Skowhegan is a charming locale ideal for a day of exploration. Along with the brewery, it features the Skowhegan Riverwalk, which presents a splendid opportunity for a peaceful stroll while enjoying the sunset before an evening filled with pizza, beer, and music.

Local art is often displayed along the pathway, complemented by boutique shops that add to the allure.

The trail is paved and equipped with ample seating and outdoor exercise equipment, enhancing the recreational experience.

This area is perfect for a picnic lunch or simply enjoying a good book in a scenic setting.

15. Skowhegan Indian Monument

Located near downtown Skowhegan and the Riverwalk, the Skowhegan Indian Monument represents a unique and accessible attraction that is both complimentary and requires little time to appreciate.

As indicated by its name, this notable monument features a large sculpture of an Indian created by a local artist, making it one of the town’s most photographed and frequented sites.

The surrounding areas of Farmington and Skowhegan were historically inhabited by various Native American groups, many of whom have sadly diminished over time.

The monument can be found on Madison Avenue, and its height makes it easily visible as you approach. If you require assistance with directions, don’t hesitate to ask a local resident.