Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Windham, Maine

Windham in Cumberland County is located relatively close to Portland, Maine’s largest city. The community has a population of approximately 17,000 and was initially established by agricultural families in the mid-18th century. Agriculture played a significant role in its development until industrial activities began utilizing water power.

Originally referred to as New Marblehead, the area faced challenges due to Native American conflicts, although peace was eventually established. It was incorporated in 1762 and renamed after a location in Norfolk, England.

The local Historical Society recently celebrated its 50th anniversary and has made substantial contributions to providing historical insights for visitors. Additionally, the area offers opportunities for outdoor recreation.

To give you an overview, here are some suggestions for the 15 Best Things to do in Windham.

1. John A. Andrew

The Pleasant River Grange building, where John A. Andrew, a Governor of Massachusetts, was born in 1818, is situated in South Windham. He served a five-year term during the Civil War and passed away in 1867.

This structure is currently a private residence. In conjunction with various other historic buildings in Windham, additional information is available at the headquarters of the Historical Society, which itself is one of the area’s earliest buildings and formerly served as a schoolhouse.

2. Parson Smith House

The former residence of Parson Peter Thatcher Smith, the second minister of Windham, was constructed around 1764 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

It was built on a prominent elevation in the town, serving as a defense against attacks.

Following Smith’s passing in 1826, the property was acquired by neighbors who resided there for five generations before it was donated to the Society for the Protection of New England Antiquities. It later functioned as a museum before being privately purchased with specific restrictions against alterations.

3. Old Town Hall

The first town hall in Windham was constructed from brick in 1833 and served various community functions such as the Town Meeting House, School, and Office.

Only in the 1980s, when its offices were no longer needed, did the Windham Historical Society assume stewardship of the building. The Society subsequently transformed it into a museum, incorporating a research center and meeting room. Important historical documents are securely stored in the vaults.

Outside, volunteers have landscaped the surroundings and established a herb garden.

4. Old Grocery

This 19th-century wooden structure was initially a tailor’s shop, measuring 30 feet by 50 feet. Enhancements were made through the later addition of imported oak leaves from St. Paul’s Church in Portland.

Over time, the building transitioned from a cobbler’s shop to a grocery and grain store. After it closed, the Historical Society undertook its renovation while preserving the original structure. Today, it operates as a museum showcasing an array of historical artifacts. While visiting, observe the horse-drawn hearse located in the adjacent shed.

5. Old Town Library

Initially functioning as a rental property for families, this building transitioned to serve as the town library in 1907, a role it continued until 1972.

After the construction of a new library, its collection was relocated, and the former library was predominantly used for storage purposes.

Space constraints necessitated a further move by the Historical Society, converting it into a museum where visitors can appreciate original furnishings along with several compelling displays.

6. Windham Hill United Church of Christ

The first church constructed in the area was established in 1737 when the settlement was recognized as New Marblehead.

This current church, built in 1835, marks the fifth religious structure in Windham, notable for being the first to feature a bell. The interior remains largely unchanged, showcasing box pews, beams, vaulted ceilings, and plaster walls.

Subsequent additions to the church include the Italianate steeple, installed in 1885, which underwent repairs three decades ago, and the stained-glass window added in 1924.

7. South Windham Community Church

A unique aspect of this 1840 building is that the congregation faces the entrance. At the time, it was designated as the Universalist Meeting House.

The names of the builders and original congregation members are inscribed near the pulpit. The total expense for land and construction is documented at $1,500, with dimensions of 38 feet by 48 feet. Its bell, installed in 1908, was the first in South Windham.

8. Village Green

The Windham Historical Society is actively engaged in restoring the School House on the Green to create a museum chronicling the history of the railroad.

This location is viewed as an ideal setting for numerous historical buildings in Windham, insulated from modern urban challenges. The project to develop a historical center is being executed by an “arm” of the Society. Visitors will witness the advancements made when they come to the Green.

9. Mallison Falls & Dam

Industrial expansion in Windham was facilitated by the power generated at Mallison Falls and Dam.

The falls, with an elevation of nearly 80 feet, was the site of the area’s first sawmill along the river and later saw the construction of a significant textile mill to harness this power. Additional dams were erected to utilize the water’s energy, with Mallison Falls located just south of South Windham.

To promote the unrestricted movement of fish through the river to the sea, “lifts” have been installed to assist them in bypassing the dams.

10. Summit Adventures

This entertainment venue caters to children aged 10 and younger and features a variety of attractions, including laser tag, mini-golf, and inflatable obstacles. It is conveniently situated on Roosevelt Trail near the Windham Shopping Mall, allowing parents to shop while monitoring their children.

Visitors can relax at nearby tables and expect to spend two to three hours while children enjoy the activities.

11. Jet Ski Guy

If you have yet to experience jet skiing, this exhilarating water activity may not be on your itinerary. However, should you choose to partake, Jet Ski Guy provides equipment and assistance to ensure a thrilling session on the water.

Located on River Road, the service can offer jet ski rentals or guidance as desired for a refreshing and adventurous outing during your stay.

12. Armand’s Kitchen Cooking Classes

While not as exhilarating, the opportunity to learn culinary skills from a highly regarded chef is certainly appealing. Individuals or groups can attend a cooking class led by Doug Armand, focusing on preferred dishes.

Participants may select their menu, observe an expert in food preparation, engage in simpler aspects of cooking, and ultimately enjoy the meals they have created.

13. Windham Indoor Shooting Range

For those seeking an engaging indoor activity, the Windham Shooting Range offers an exhilarating experience. Here, individuals can shoot automatic pistols at targets positioned at varying distances.

Safety is emphasized by the staff throughout the visit, and participants can choose from a range of weapons, including pistols and rifles. The facility draws both novices and experienced shooters alike.

14. Babbs Covered Bridge

This bridge, connecting Windham and Gorham, is named for a family who resided near the railroad when the structure was completed in 1840.

After its destruction by fire in 1973, the reconstruction of Maine’s oldest covered bridge was deemed essential, undertaken to replicate its original design. The State Transportation Department endorsed the project, with significant involvement from various organizations and volunteers.

The bridge was officially dedicated on July 4, 1976, coinciding with the Bicentennial of the United States.

15. Chute’s Family Restaurant

Regardless of your culinary preferences, Windham has a restaurant to cater to your needs. This family-owned establishment on Roosevelt Trail has served a diverse menu of popular, wholesome dishes for many years, beginning with an early breakfast service.

The original owner’s daughter and her husband now manage the restaurant, which has remained in the family for four decades. Brunch and lunch are available daily.

Parking may be slightly limited, but the quality of the food justifies walking a short distance if necessary.