Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Lebanon, Maine

Located at the southernmost tip of Maine, Lebanon lies in York County approximately 50 kilometers north of Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Situated near one of the state’s most picturesque lake regions to the north, it is also conveniently located close to the Atlantic coast, allowing for easy day trips to the beach.

As with much of Maine, it is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature aficionados, featuring an abundance of state parks, museums, art galleries, and historical sites, ensuring that visitors will have no shortage of activities.

Here are 15 of the premier activities to enjoy in and around Lebanon, Maine.

1. Bear Brook State Park

Although located in New Hampshire, Bear Brook State Park is close enough to Lebanon to attract visitors eager to immerse themselves in the New England wilderness.

Spanning over 10,000 acres, it is the largest state park in New Hampshire, featuring nearly 50 miles of trails that make it accessible for exploration.

The park offers nearly 100 campsites and includes varied landscapes such as mountains, bogs, rivers, and streams, which are highly desirable for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Make sure to visit the welcome center and camping shop before you set out.

2. The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire

While it may not be the largest museum, The Children’s Museum of New Hampshire compensates for its size with an abundance of engaging and educational experiences.

It is a unique venue that not only entertains children but also promotes their learning and growth.

Situated on Washington Street in Dover, many visitors have expressed that their visit exceeded expectations, noting that even after two hours, children remained engaged and enthusiastic.

The museum’s interactive exhibits require children to actively participate, providing opportunities for physical activity and creativity.

3. Portsmouth Escape Room

For a distinctive and thrilling afternoon or evening away from the outdoors, consider immersing yourself in an escape room experience.

Portsmouth Escape Room offers a selection of thematic rooms with adjustable levels of difficulty suitable for families and groups.

Participating in an escape room can significantly enhance team camaraderie and cognitive performance, making it an excellent choice for social gatherings.

These experiences are also appropriate for double dates, and given its location in downtown Portsmouth, numerous dining options await you afterward.

4. Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge

Rachel Carson was a pivotal figure in the environmental awareness movement that evolved throughout the country decades ago.

Her influential publication, Silent Spring, remains a seminal work, and visiting the wildlife refuge dedicated to her name is a fitting tribute to her legacy.

This refuge serves as a crucial stopover for migratory waterfowl and wading birds, especially when northern freshwater bodies are frozen.

The entrance to the refuge is located on Port Road in Wells and was established in 1966 to safeguard the essential coastal ecosystem and its inhabitants.

5. USS Albacore

If you have never observed a submarine up close, these remarkable vessels are truly awe-inspiring. When out of the water, their substantial size is impressive.

The USS Albacore, a submarine from the 1950s, now serves as a museum accessible to the public.

Submarines like the Albacore were often used to test new technologies, many of which have contributed to advancements that are now standard in modern submarines.

Visitors might find the confined spaces somewhat claustrophobic, yet they provide a captivating glimpse into a covert weapon system that played a critical role during the Cold War.

6. Discover Portsmouth Center

Situated in a former library building, the Portsmouth Historical Society presents a unique blend of exhibitions and displays covering a range of subjects, including science, history, culture, art, and the natural world.

This characteristic diversity ensures that nearly every visitor will discover something of interest.

Several exhibits cater to children, many of which feature interactive components. In addition to permanent displays, temporary exhibitions from external institutions are frequently hosted, ensuring each visit is unique.

7. Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion Historic Site

Constructed in the mid-1700s, the Wentworth-Coolidge Mansion once served as the residence, office, and library of a colonial governor. The mansion encompasses over 40 rooms, and its grounds historically functioned as a working farm.

This historic site, located on Little Harbor Road just a short distance from downtown Portsmouth, is among the best-preserved landmarks from the colonial era.

The expansive grounds provide a lovely environment for a walk after touring the mansion, offering stunning views of picturesque Little Harbor.

8. Strawbery Banke Museum

Located in one of Portsmouth’s most historic districts, Jane Banks Museum covers over 10 acres and serves as a fascinating living history museum, housing a comprehensive collection of historical and cultural artifacts.

The museum has varying hours throughout the year, and guided tours are available, often including other significant historic homes and structures in the vicinity.

For short-term visitors interested in gaining insights into the local history, dedicating a few hours to the Strawbery Banke Museum would be a prudent choice.

9. Woodman Museum

Given the centuries of history situated in this region, which dates back to a time when much of New England was still under British rule, it is unsurprising that Maine and New Hampshire boast numerous inspiring museums.

Established in 1916, the Woodman Museum includes diverse elements of art, history, Native American culture, and the natural world.

This museum comprises four distinct buildings, each with its own unique history. These sites were once home to many prominent historical figures dating back to the 1600s when the area was still a wild frontier inhabited by indigenous peoples and wildlife.

10. Portland Museum of Art

Traditionally, New England has been home to many of the nation’s most esteemed and accomplished artists.

The Portland Museum of Art, the oldest and most comprehensive art museum in the state, boasts an impressive array of artworks, some of which are considered priceless.

While many of the museum’s pieces are traditional, contemporary works are also well represented. Along with its permanent collection, the museum hosts various temporary exhibitions from other institutions throughout the year.

Located in historic Congress Square, staying updated on events and exhibitions can be accomplished by periodically checking their website.

11. Shop at the Old Port

Portland’s Old Port District, once a bustling waterfront area filled with shipping berths and warehouses, has undergone a remarkable transformation.

Today, it stands out as one of the region’s most fashionable and popular shopping districts, filled with boutiques, galleries, and dining establishments that attract substantial crowds.

The items available at these shops often reflect unique New England-style Americana. Though prices may be higher than those of national retail chains, the offerings possess significantly more character.

The Old Port serves as an excellent spot to unwind with a glass of wine or cappuccino while enjoying the sunset.

12. Take a Historic Homes Tour

Given the abundance of historic homes in downtown Portland, it provides an excellent opportunity for a historic homes tour.

Those who prefer a self-guided experience can easily compile a list of homes within walking distance. Conversely, there are numerous professionally led tour options available for those who prefer a structured visit.

Regardless of the approach taken, visitors are afforded a captivating glimpse into the past while also gaining a better understanding of the city’s layout, a benefit that proves useful as one continues to explore its numerous attractions.

13. Eastern Promenade

Portland is abundant in waterfront locations, and the Eastern Promenade is arguably the most charming and beloved area among locals and visitors alike.

Set on scenic land between Fore River and Back Cove, the nearly 70-acre park features trails, beaches, and expansive open spaces that will keep visitors occupied for hours.

Although it is especially popular during the warmer months, some of the most dramatic views can be witnessed during blustery winter days when the landscape resembles a classic oil painting.

Much of this park offers a sense of seclusion, making you feel as if you are farther from urban life than you truly are.

14. Vaughan Woods Memorial State Park

Positioned near South Berwick, Vaughan Woods Memorial State Park runs alongside the Salmon Falls River, which often serves as the boundary between Maine and New Hampshire.

This park remains open throughout the year, and while it lacks extensive facilities, it boasts breathtaking vistas and multiple trails that follow the river.

For those interested in merging history with natural beauty, Hamilton House is accessible via a well-marked trail.

The house is located on a bluff overlooking the river, presenting an excellent photo opportunity.

15. Fort Allen State Park

Casco Bay is one of Portland’s notable natural treasures, and Fort Allen State Park offers an unparalleled vantage point from which to admire it.

As many cities and towns are now repurposing unused spaces, this park has transformed what was once idle land into a valuable community resource, facilitating various outdoor activities popular among residents and tourists.

Featuring easily walkable paths, picnic areas, and covered gazebos, it provides all the essentials for an enjoyable outing.

The park is accessible year-round and tends to be less crowded, particularly during the fall and winter seasons.