Top 15 Attractions and Activities in New Gloucester, Maine

Situated in Maine’s Cumberland County, New Gloucester has a population exceeding 5,000 and is recognized as the site of the last remaining active Shaker settlement worldwide.

Initially established in 1735 as a trading post within the Massachusetts Bay Colony, the town comprised just a few square miles and was settled by individuals from the coastal colonies of Gloucester and Cape Ann.

New Gloucester’s strategic location allows for easy access to several of the state’s largest urban settings, along with the Atlantic Coast and wooded areas characterized by lakes, rivers, and mountains.

Here are 15 notable attractions to explore in and around New Gloucester, Maine.

1. 7th Annual Lake Region Car Show

For the past seven years, the New Gloucester area has hosted an annual car show that has consistently increased in attendance since its inaugural event.

Showcasing a variety of classes ranging from vehicles of the 1930s and 1940s to contemporary models, the event takes place at the Lake Region Vocational Center on Roosevelt Trail in neighboring Naples.

Admission fees are minimal for both exhibitors and attendees, with no charge for children under 12.

This event offers an exciting selection of impressive vehicles, delicious food, and numerous family-oriented activities, so remember to mark your calendars for June 2nd.

2. Sabbathday Lake Shaker Museum

New Gloucester is the last bastion of the Shaker community globally. For those desiring insight into this fascinating sect, the Sabbathday Lake Shaker Museum serves as the ideal location.

Established nearly a century ago, the museum aims to address and clarify various misconceptions surrounding the Shaker lifestyle and traditions.

The museum encompasses approximately 20 structures that are open for exploration and reflect nearly two centuries of this extraordinary community’s history.

Engage in a guided tour at the visitor center to enhance your experience during your visit.

3. Pineland Farms

Situated on Farm View Drive in New Gloucester, Pineland Farms offers an enriching experience for individuals eager to engage with agricultural practices while enjoying hands-on activities.

From milking cows to collecting eggs, visitors to the farm have the opportunity to observe aspects of agricultural life that are often hidden from view; this is particularly enjoyable for children.

Pineland Farms features a diverse array of animals, including goats, cows, and alpacas. Additionally, an onsite café provides an assortment of reasonably priced meal options, including vegan selections.

It may be prudent to arrange for tours ahead of your visit whenever possible.

4. Maine Wildlife Park

Given the extensive forests, rugged mountains, lakes, streams, and rivers, it is unsurprising that New England is home to an impressive variety of wildlife species.

Located a short distance from New Gloucester in Gray, Maine Wildlife Park is easily accessible from Exit 63 on I-95 and is home to some of the state’s most captivating native wildlife.

Visitors to the park can expect to see a range of animals, including mountain lions, bears, moose, and bald eagles, alongside numerous other species that delight guests.

The park remains open from April through November and spans nearly 200 acres.

5. Intervale Preserve

The Intervale Preserve in New Gloucester is managed by a trust dedicated to conserving the essential wetlands, bogs, and marshes critical to the region’s ecosystem.

This preserve features a plethora of trails, making it likely to observe local wildlife during hikes, particularly during the early morning or evening hours when they are most active.

The preserve is particularly significant for migrating and wading birds, as they utilize this expansive area to rest and feed during their annual migration across more than 1,000 acres of land.

6. Range Ponds State Park

Located near Poland in Maine’s Androscoggin County, Range Ponds State Park offers various outdoor recreational activities for individuals seeking to connect with nature.

Favorite warm-weather activities include fishing, hiking, and kayaking, while a scenic sand beach with certified lifeguards attracts visitors, particularly on hot summer days.

The park creates a sense of immersion in wilderness, even though it is not far from some of the state’s largest urban areas.

7. Sebago Trails Paddling

Sebago Trails Paddling Company serves as a central hub for individuals aiming to enjoy water activities, witness stunning landscapes, and engage in physical exercise.

The abundant waterways of Maine provide an ideal setting to refine your paddling abilities, with the Sebago Lakes Region standing out as one of the most scenic locales to explore during your visit.

Located along Roosevelt Trail in Windham, the company offers a range of tours and programs suitable for varying levels of physical capability.

This accessible and affordable option provides a unique opportunity to engage with Maine’s natural features.

8. Bradbury Mountain State Park

As one of Maine’s original five state parks, Bradbury Mountain State Park has been attracting visitors for decades, and its appeal is easily understood upon arrival.

With a network of picturesque multi-use trails available for walkers, hikers, joggers, and cyclists, the park welcomes visitors year-round, offering options for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing during winter months.

Located in Pownal, Cumberland County, this park provides an ideal setting to stretch one’s legs and appreciate the state’s natural beauty.

Access is free, with ample parking available just inside the entrance.

9. Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park

Occupying a scenic location along Casco Bay near Freeport, Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park is renowned for its stunning natural beauty.

The park extends into the waters of the bay on a slender peninsula at the mouth of the Harraseeket River, showcasing some of the region’s most breathtaking coastlines and vital marshlands.

Open year-round, the park is conveniently located just a short drive from Freeport, making it easy to explore its trails before embarking on a self-guided walking tour of Freeport’s charming and historically rich shopping area.

10. Bustins Island

Located in the eastern region of Casco Bay, Bustins Island is part of the town of Freeport and boasts approximately 100 summer cottages utilized by vacationers.

While the island may not offer many attractions beyond charming homes and stunning landscapes, it remains an exceptional locale to experience coastal living.

A ferry service operates between the island and the mainland from Memorial Day to Columbus Day; this offers a delightful and cost-effective means to see Maine’s rugged and scenic coastline.

It is advisable to dress appropriately, as the weather at sea may differ significantly from that on land.

11. Maine Maritime Museum

Maine boasts one of the longest maritime histories of any U.S. state, and the Maine Maritime Museum in Bath offers the best opportunity to delve into this rich narrative.

The museum’s exhibits cover both local and regional history, as well as international maritime themes, some dating back hundreds of years from the era of initial exploration and settlement.

Spanning nearly 7,000 square feet, the museum has been recently updated to enhance visitor experience.

Positioned along the banks of the Kennebec River, one of its most engaging exhibits highlights the state’s commercial fishing and lobster industries, which have historically provided sustenance and economic support.

12. Bath Farmer’s Market

Although the hours may vary slightly with the changing seasons, Bath Farmer’s Market remains open year-round, showcasing an array of seasonally available produce, dairy, and other products sourced locally.

Consistently open on Saturday mornings, the market operates even during inclement weather, which can be frequent in New England during winter months.

While waterproof boots and warm clothing may be necessary, you will appreciate the diverse selection of high-quality products available for purchase.

The market features a variety of prepared foods, delectable baked goods, woolen items, and seafood, providing ample opportunities for exploration.

13. The Bath Golf Club

Set against the backdrop of the lush, rolling hills surrounding Bath, the Bath Golf Club is among the area’s most picturesque and sought-after golf courses.

Designed in the 1930s by a renowned golf course architect, it features 18 holes that provide a challenging experience while also presenting stunning views that entice players.

The clubhouse, constructed in the 1850s, contains a pro shop with essential equipment, including balls, tees, hats, and spikes.

It is advisable to schedule tee times in advance, particularly during the popular summer months.

14. Doubling Point Lighthouse

In a region replete with stunning lighthouses, Doubling Point Lighthouse manages to distinguish itself remarkably.

Constructed in the late 1890s on an island in the Kennebec River, it was one of four built to direct maritime vessels to Maine’s ‘City of Ships,’ Bath.

Having undergone numerous renovations over the years, the lighthouse retains its original form and allure, earning its status as one of the most photographed landmarks in the region.

This area is rich in maritime history, providing plenty of opportunities for exploration and appreciation.

15. Bath Waterfront Park

The Kennebec River meanders through several of Maine’s most picturesque towns, and Bath Waterfront Park offers one of the most accessible spots to appreciate this beauty during your stay in New Gloucester.

Filled with walking paths, the park provides a wonderful opportunity for fresh air, exercise, and an appreciation of nature’s beauty, conveniently located near downtown Bath for a pleasant side excursion.

The park is particularly enchanting at sunset and is positioned just north of the Route 1 bridge.

Designated seating areas are perfect for picnics or simply enjoying a leisurely hour outdoors.