Top 15 Activities and Attractions in Oakland, Maine

Often regarded as the ‘Gateway to the Belgrade Lakes Region,’ Oakland is situated in Maine’s Kennebec County and was first established in the 1780s.

Prior to the settlement by English colonists, the region was known as Taconnet, named after a local Native American chief.

The town is approximately twenty miles north of the state capital, Augusta, and just a few miles from the larger town of Waterville.

Central Maine’s Belgrade Lakes serve as premier recreational destinations for residents throughout the year, offering a range of outdoor activities.

Here are 15 notable attractions and activities in and around Oakland, Maine.

1. Riverside Farm Market and Café

For a dining experience complemented by picturesque views reminiscent of a Winslow Homer painting, consider visiting Riverside Farm Market and Café on Fairfield Street in Oakland.

The serene scenery features pastures, ponds, and a vineyard, particularly enchanting when viewed from the café’s outdoor seating area.

The café offers a delectable menu that includes soups, salads, and sandwiches, among other options. Most dishes utilize local and seasonal ingredients.

Additionally, a small farmer’s market is available on-site, stocked with wine, prepared foods, and bakery items such as cookies and cheese.

2. Snow Pond Cruises

Although officially named Messalonskee Lake, the local community affectionately refers to it as Snow Pond, as its lengthy name tends to perplex.

Stretching nearly 30 miles along the shoreline, it stands as a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The most captivating way to experience its beauty is by embarking on a boat tour.

Boat tours commence at Rocky Shore Lane in Oakland, with sunset cruises being particularly sought after.

Consider bringing a bottle of sparkling wine, fresh French bread, and a hunk of local cheddar for a delightful picnic.

3. Tree Spirits Winery and Distillery

Conveniently located just off Interstate 95, Tree Spirits Winery and Distillery serves as an excellent diversion, allowing for efficient use of your valuable time while exploring the area.

The winery produces a diverse assortment of wines and spirits on-site, including brandy and absinthe—an intriguing green liquor known for its infusion of fennel and black licorice, historically associated with hallucinations.

Their notable offerings include a range of fruit-infused wines, so visiting the winery to sample and explore the options prior to making a selection is recommended.

Tree Spirits Winery is located on Fairfield Street in Oakland.

4. Camp Manitou

For nearly seven decades, Camp Manitou in Oakland has been serving as a summer retreat for boys aged 7 to 16.

Nestled in the heart of the Belgrade Lakes Region, this is one of the oldest and most esteemed camps in the country.

With a staff composed of professional educators and coaches, many of whom have dedicated years to the camp, parents can rest assured that their children are engaged in plenty of productive activities.

The camp’s timetable is filled with physically invigorating and character-building pursuits, aimed at captivating, engaging, and educating young campers.

For precise camp details, refer to their official website.

5. Mount Phillip Trail

Located nearby in Rome, Maine, is one of the area’s most frequented hiking trails.

The Mount Phillip Trail ascends nearly 400 feet in elevation, rewarding hikers with stunning panoramic views of numerous lakes, many of which stretch to the horizon on clear days.

Adequate parking is available at the trailhead, and the well-marked path ensures that finding your way is straightforward. For individuals in decent physical condition, the hike typically takes about one hour one way.

This trail is suitable for children, although it may not accommodate strollers.

6. Winterberry Farm

Located just off Route 27 in Belgrade, Maine, Winterberry Farm spans 40 acres dedicated to cultivating a variety of certified organic products.

The original farmhouse was constructed in the late 1800s. In addition to the functioning farm, there is also a market filled with healthy, all-natural produce and prepared food options.

Group tours of the farm are available, but prior notification is necessary. They also host children’s camps and farm stays for those interested in an immersive experience.

The children’s summer camp emphasizes interaction with the farm’s friendly animals.

7. Railroad Square Cinema

Housed within Railroad Square in Waterville, the Railroad Square Cinema first opened in the 1970s but was not particularly well-received back then.

Since its renovation, it has emerged as one of the most popular movie destinations in the area.

Featuring an eclectic mix of both classic and contemporary films, many viewers can find unique offerings not commonly found in larger commercial theaters.

Overall, ticket prices are reasonable, and enjoying a movie is an excellent way to spend a few hours, especially during inclement weather.

8. Mainely Escapes

Even for individuals who have yet to encounter a New England winter, it is reasonable to assume that the weather can be severe, icy, and potentially hazardous.

In such circumstances, having indoor activities at your disposal is beneficial, and escape rooms present an engaging option.

Situated on Main Street in Waterville, Mainely Escapes features various rooms, each possessing a distinct theme, some of which are suitable for groups including children.

Escape rooms engage participants with a sense of urgency and suspense, offering a distinctive experience not regularly found in other recreational activities.

9. Colby College Museum of Art

Complimentary activities are invaluable, particularly for visitors whose travel budgets are diminishing rapidly.

The Colby College Museum of Art, located on Mayflower Hill Drive in Waterville, is one of those exceptional institutions that often surpass the expectations of visitors.

Many artworks are created by local and regional artists, encompassing notable New England themes such as seascapes and lighthouses.

The museum exceeds the size and completeness of many college art museums and includes a café where visitors can unwind and regroup before embarking on their next adventure.

10. Maine International Film Festival

Maine’s International Film Festival is experiencing a rise in popularity and recognition at the national level.

Taking place over ten days in July, this festival is conveniently located in Waterville, just a short distance from Oakland.

Alongside numerous movie screenings across various genres, the event also features live music, theatrical performances, exhibitions, and workshops aimed at those interested in the visual arts.

Numerous producers, screenwriters, actors, and actresses are typically present, providing a glimpse into an industry most individuals only observe from a seat in a crowded cinema.

11. Waterville Country Club

With its breathtaking natural scenery and generally pleasant spring and summer conditions, Maine is an ideal location for golfers. The Waterville Country Club features an 18-hole course that ranks among the most favored in the area.

This course presents varied elevations, wooded regions, and both water and sand hazards, creating a picturesque yet challenging golfing experience.

The club operates semi-privately, meaning full members have priority when reserving tee times during peak seasons; however, transient guests are also welcome. The facility includes a restaurant, pro shop, putting greens, and a practice range for those wishing to warm up before their rounds.

12. Waterville Opera House

For nearly five decades, the Waterville Opera House has served as a vital community resource, providing an affordable avenue of entertainment often found exclusively in larger metropolitan areas.

Established in 1975, it offers a diverse range of live performances, including opera, music concerts, theater productions, and even stand-up comedy.

This charming venue retains much of its historical character while featuring state-of-the-art facilities.

The Opera House operates year-round, so it is advisable to check their event calendar to ascertain what is taking place during your visit.

13. Old Western Fort

Situated in Augusta, the capital of Maine, Old Western Fort serves as a prime destination for those seeking an insightful exploration of the region’s historical context, being one of the oldest sites of its kind in the nation.

Constructed in the mid-1700s, the Old Western Fort is the oldest nearly-original wooden fort in existence.

The site operates on a seasonal basis, and guided tours are available for interested visitors, providing value that justifies the affordable ticket price.

Admissions are reasonably priced, with discounted rates for children, making it an engaging destination for families seeking educational experiences.

14. Maine State Museum

There is inexpensive admission, and for those on a tight budget, the Maine State Museum is an exceptional choice, allowing a typical family of four to enter for less than the price of a fast-food meal.

Home to one of the state’s most comprehensive historical collections, many exhibits include original artifacts that date back centuries.

Exhibits showcasing weapons, clothing, documents, and household items are common, with informative signs detailing their significance.

Additionally, the museum presents interesting displays on the natural world, complementing its historical themes.

15. The State Capitol

Located in the historical heart of downtown Augusta, Maine’s State Capitol building, established in the 1820s, is accessible for tours throughout the year.

While there is no charge to participate in a tour, advance registration is necessary, and numerous visitors have reported that their experience surpassed expectations, which is often not the case for complimentary activities.

The capitol is an exquisitely appointed and meticulously restored building featuring a range of historical displays as well as a gallery filled with original portraits of the state’s previous governors.

Tours generally last about an hour and are suitable for families with young children.