Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Falmouth, Maine

Situated in Cumberland County, Maine, Falmouth is a town with approximately 11,000 residents and is part of the urban area known as “Portland-South Portland-Biddeford.”

As a northern suburb of Portland, it shares its borders with Casco Bay, which is home to one of the largest anchorages in the state. Falmouth is also home to three private golf clubs and the Portland Yacht Club.

Notably, Falmouth has been depicted in several novels by acclaimed author Stephen King, including the haunting “Salem’s Lot.”

Should you plan to visit this delightful town, consider exploring some of the premier activities available during your stay.

1. Dine at Orchid Thai restaurant

This is an essential experience for enthusiasts of authentic Thai cuisine. If you have not sampled it before, the remarkable flavors will undoubtedly entice you to return.

The culinary team utilizes fresh ingredients, sourcing seafood locally from Portland’s docks. The atmosphere is inviting and intimate, with prices that are reasonable.

2. Grab breakfast at Bernies Foreside

For those who appreciate a traditional American breakfast, Bernies Foreside stands out as the premier establishment in Falmouth. Conveniently located just outside Portland, small shops are nearby for anyone in need of retail therapy.

The restaurant offers a warm and friendly atmosphere, ideal for enjoying a leisurely breakfast with family or friends. The diverse menu caters to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Due to the exquisite cuisine, it’s no surprise that this establishment is frequently bustling. At times, you may need to wait for a table, but the experience is certainly worthwhile.

3. Relax at Fabu Salon & Day Spa

Looking for a moment of relaxation and pampering? Visit Fabu Salon & Day Spa. With an array of beauty and relaxation services, including massages and a sauna, you will depart feeling truly rejuvenated.

Upon entering this welcoming space, the enticing aroma of essential oils envelops you, and you will be treated with the utmost care.

4. Catch a play at Footlights Theater

Whether you are a theater enthusiast or merely seeking a pleasant evening in Falmouth, Footlights Theater presents an excellent choice.

The intimate setting allows for beverage purchases, including wine, prior to performances. The live shows are entertaining and transport you to a captivating and magical experience.

5. Get back to nature at the Gilsland Farm Audubon Center

This destination is ideal for a leisurely walk. With picturesque forests, estuaries, and ponds, the trails will immerse you in the region’s natural beauty.

A quaint floral exhibit is also present, allowing you to learn about the numerous bird species that inhabit the area.

Consider bringing a picnic lunch and letting your children participate in the reasonably priced programs available.

For those wishing to take home a memento, the gift shop offers a variety of bird and nature-themed merchandise.

6. Learn to Sail with Capt. Lyman Stuart

If you have always aspired to navigate the waters and conquer the ocean, this is an excellent opportunity! In the heart of Casco Bay, Captain Lyman provides comprehensive sailing instruction along with an unforgettable experience.

The schedule is adaptable, allowing lessons to be taken at your convenience. Once you begin to grasp the fundamentals, with the wind billowing in the sails and the fresh briny breeze tousling your hair, you will question why you delayed starting this journey.

7. Explore Mackworth Island

Take a moment to recharge by strolling around this hundred-acre island. It serves as an excellent venue for family hikes. The scenic views of Casco Bay are breathtaking, with trails that lead you through sandy shorelines and wooded areas.

Although Mackworth Island is relatively small, it is equipped with numerous benches for relaxation and swings for children. There is even a delightful area adorned with mature pine trees, the aroma of which evokes memories of the holiday season.

8. Visit Presumpscot Falls Park

For a pleasant walk or hike, the Presumpscot Falls Trail provides a captivating experience. Although it is relatively short, the trail is challenging, making it an excellent option for those seeking a workout.

The viewpoint of Presumpscot Falls is located at the trail’s endpoint, near the site of the former Smelt Hill Dam, a renowned fishing spot.

9. Peruse the shelves at Falmouth Memorial Library

For book enthusiasts, the quaint yet bustling Falmouth Memorial Library is a must-visit. Established in 1952, it continues to be the preferred destination for avid readers today.

The library features a public access computer room and an expansive children’s section, alongside complimentary wireless internet access. If you wish to delve into the history of Maine, you will find valuable resources within this library.

10. Be enchanted at the Maine State Ballet

Emotion, elegance, dance, and affordability; all of these can be found at the Maine State Ballet. If you relish energetic dance performances filled with vibrant costumes and captivating narratives, this venue is ideal for a family outing.

Each production is meticulously prepared by passionate students and professionals dedicated to the art of ballet.

11. Marvel at the Falmouth Nature Preserve

This scenic preserve, located within Falmouth, provides another opportunity to immerse yourself in the outdoor environment. Here, you can traverse the trail while observing local wildlife.

The Falmouth Nature Preserve spans 76-acres adjacent to Mill Creek, featuring a trail approximately three miles long.

Whether you prefer a peaceful stroll, an invigorating hike, or a bike ride, you can enjoy the breathtaking views, the soothing sounds of nature, and the refreshing air.

12. Visit the Woods Road Heritage Museum

For those interested in Falmouth’s cultural and historical aspects, the Woods Road Heritage Museum is the ideal location. The museum houses a wealth of research material pertaining to the genealogy of various families who have resided in the town.

Visitors are encouraged to utilize the library’s research resources, which serve as a primary point for information and reference for both residents and tourists.

Wireless internet access is available, along with a comfortable workspace for research activities.

13. Pop into the Portland Museum of Art

The Portland Museum of Art is recognized as the finest regional museum in the nation. It boasts permanent exhibits and a collection that is nationally acclaimed, catering to art enthusiasts.

Among its extensive collections are works of American, European, and contemporary art. The museum also offers complimentary school tours, family-oriented activities, curator discussions, and organized visits to the Winslow Homer Studio.

14. Climb on The Portland Observatory

The Portland Observatory provides a fantastic vantage point over the entire Portland landscape. Each level features historical displays relevant to the structure’s history.

This tower was originally constructed to notify individuals when ships approached the harbor, signifying that unloading work was imminent. It is an excellent place to enjoy remarkable views while learning about Portland’s rich history.

15. Visit the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine

If you are on vacation with your family, the Children’s Museum and Theatre of Maine offers an engaging experience for children. They will delight in visiting the computer lab and exploring the additional fantastic exhibits.

The staff guides children through various educational and interactive activities that instill an appreciation for life and art. Experiences include driving a fire truck, an ambulance, and a tractor, splashing in a stream with plastic fish and turtles, camping, and much more.