Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Lincoln, Maine

Situated within the lake-studded scenery of Maine’s east-central area, Lincoln is a town brimming with quaint allure, conveniently located near numerous popular natural, cultural, and historical landmarks throughout the state.

While activities are plentiful year-round, the primary tourist season typically spans from mid-spring to the conclusion of summer, which generally arrives early owing to the town’s northern climate.

In recent years, the downtown area has undergone significant revitalization, now featuring a variety of dining establishments, galleries, and shops that merit a visit.

Highlighted below are 15 of the foremost attractions in and around Lincoln that should not be overlooked.

1. Baxter State Park

Baxter State Park is a short drive from Lincoln and is home to the tallest mountain in the state, Mount Katahdin.

Renowned for its rugged charm and an expansive network of trails weaving through its mountains and woodlands, it is a favored locale for those seeking to experience some of Maine’s most tranquil and unspoiled landscapes while evading crowds.

The ascent to Mount Katahdin’s summit is recommended solely for those with excellent physical fitness; however, those who successfully reach the pinnacle will be rewarded with some of the most stunning and unobstructed vistas found in the state.

2. Do Some Fishing

With a multitude of water bodies spanning the state, fishing stands as one of the most popular outdoor recreational activities, featuring a variety of freshwater game fish inhabiting the ponds, lakes, and rivers surrounding Lincoln.

Mattanawcook Lake, Upper Lakes, and the Penobscot River are among the premier fishing spots near town, hosting diverse native species such as trout, bass, pike, and walleye.

Much of the local water is accessible to both shore and boat anglers. For individuals interested in securing a local guide, numerous tour providers offer decades of expertise connecting anglers with their desired catches.

3. Lincoln Memorial Library

Situated on West Broadway in Lincoln, the Lincoln Memorial Library serves as a valuable community resource that is frequently disregarded by visitors.

While checking out books may not be an option for guests, access to public computers and comfortable seating is available. Moreover, as the library hosts an array of educational and instructional courses, you may find intriguing events on their calendar during your visit.

For the latest updates regarding their offerings, consider checking their website or contacting them prior to your arrival.

4. Lincoln Historical Society Museum

Since the 1930s, the Lincoln Historical Society has been committed to preserving the town’s distinct history and cultural heritage. Although it remains a work in progress (as noted on their website), it is certainly worth a visit.

The museum is strategically located on West Broadway Street adjacent to the library and does not maintain set hours.

Visitors may arrange designated visit times or guided tours, but advance notice is required via phone to confirm your group size and expected arrival.

Enthusiastic local volunteers staff the historical society and museum, providing guidance towards additional nearby attractions.

5. Acadia National Park

Acadia National Park, situated along the rugged Atlantic coast, is a premier destination in New England and represents the largest national park in the eastern United States.

It is also one of the oldest. Within its expansive boundary, along with the nearby town of Bar Harbor, visitors will discover a wide range of cultural, historical, and recreational options that provide engagement for days.

From hiking, camping, and fishing to exploring museums, galleries, and historic landmarks, Acadia National Park encapsulates Maine’s essence in a compact area.

For those planning to visit during peak tourism months, advance arrangements for accommodation are advisable.

6. Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge

Situated near Baileyville, the Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge encompasses a vast expanse of land conserved by the federal government, much of which is open to the public.

This refuge serves as a crucial habitat for migratory waterfowl, wading birds, and predatory birds that thrive in its lush aquatic and forest environments.

The park features a network of trails that guide visitors to various scenic viewpoints, with opportunities to observe diverse wildlife, particularly during the early morning and late afternoon hours.

For those staying in the area for more than a few days and interested in contributing to park conservation, volunteer positions are available.

7. West Grand Lake

Spanning nearly 15,000 acres, West Grand Lake is not only vast but also ranks among the state’s preferred locations for anglers—particularly those seeking landlocked salmon.

This lake is one of the few in the state known for its native landlocked salmon populations. Additionally, it hosts flourishing communities of lake trout, bass, and whitefish.

For those intending to fish, it is essential to obtain current year fishing licenses as both Maine residents and out-of-state visitors are required to have them; penalties can be severe if fishing without a license.

Fishing is particularly favorable in the fall, when fish exhibit feeding frenzies in preparation for the winter months.

8. New England Outdoor Center

Recognized as one of New England’s premier resorts, the New England Outdoor Center provides a remarkable setting for a distinctive and unforgettable Maine experience.

Available amenities include cabins, full-service dining, and diverse guided activities, ranging from whitewater rafting and wildlife observation to fishing.

Many cabins are situated along the shores of Millinocket Lake, affording breathtaking sunrises, sunsets, and unobstructed vistas of Mount Katahdin.

As one of the state’s most comprehensive and family-oriented resorts, it tends to fill quickly; therefore, arrangements should be made well in advance for spring or summer visits.

9. Bangor Escape Rooms

Located on Hammond Street in Bangor, Bangor Escape Rooms was the city’s inaugural establishment of its kind, featuring a variety of uniquely themed rooms designed to entertain visitors and their companions.

For those who are yet to partake in an escape room experience, a visit to Maine may present the ideal opportunity to do so.

These activities are affordable, thrilling, and not contingent upon favorable weather conditions, making them an excellent option for inclement winter days.

Participants typically have one hour to complete their challenge using their problem-solving abilities; failure may lead to engaging narratives involving ravenous zombies.

10. Penobscot Theatre Company

During the mid-19th century, Bangor’s theater scene flourished to such an extent that the city earned recognition as a prominent competitor to New York City for live theater performances.

Historically, the city was home to numerous thriving theater companies; today, however, only Penobscot Theatre Company remains.

Continuing to provide a diverse array of classic and contemporary productions, it is housed within the historic Bangor Opera House, an architectural gem that has served as a city landmark for generations.

Due to high demand, tickets for popular performances sell quickly, and most visitors find their experiences surpassing expectations.

11. Hannibal Hamlin’s Death Sofa

Hannibal Hamlin served as Abraham Lincoln’s first vice president. Although his name may not be widely recognized, he had a remarkable life that originated and concluded in Maine.

Hamlin launched his political career as a senator and congressman representing Maine, and he even held a position as a diplomat in Europe.

The couch on which Hamlin passed away is on display within the Bangor Public Library on Harlow Street. Reportedly, during a game of cards on July 4th, 1891, Hamlin reclined and subsequently died.

The library is open to the public and features numerous other fascinating historical artifacts.

12. Hudson Museum

While most travelers do not primarily visit Maine for its collection of Mexican antiquities, the Hudson Museum is a unique treasure, showcasing the country’s most complete assortment of tomb figures.

Located on the University of Maine campus in Orono, the museum houses thousands of pre-Columbian artifacts from South and Central America, especially Mexico.

In addition to the museum, the university campus is typically bustling with events, including sports, live music, and theatrical performances. There are also various educational and instructional offerings accessible to the general public.

Before visiting, it is prudent to check the events calendar on their website.

13. Collins Center for the Arts

Also situated on the University of Maine campus in Orono, the Collins Center for the Arts is a prominent venue for live music and theatrical performances in the region.

It is particularly celebrated for its symphony and concert band performances, and the annual spring concert garners significant local interest.

Unlike comparable productions hosted at larger, private venues, ticket prices remain reasonable. Throughout the year, a variety of productions are featured, many of which are produced by students.

Founded in the 1980s, the center frequently presents renowned national performers. University of Maine students benefit from free admission to events.

14. Chamberlain Freedom Park

For numerous slaves seeking refuge from the southern states, Maine represented a sanctuary. While life was far from idyllic for many, northern states like Maine provided improved living conditions.

Chamberlain Freedom Park, located in Bangor, is the state’s sole memorial dedicated to the Underground Railroad—a secret network of individuals, routes, and safe havens that guided many to freedom.

The focal point of the park is a bronze sculpture illustrating a slave emerging from a tunnel, poignantly representing the suspense, fear, and emotions that accompanied a journey often lasting for months.

The park is free to enter and serves as a tranquil retreat amid the city’s vibrancy.

15. Mount Hope Cemetery

Some first-time visitors to Mount Hope Cemetery may find it somewhat peculiar that a cemetery serves as a communal gathering area for families.

Established in the 1830s, the cemetery was initially intended not only as a final resting place for residents but also as a natural and aesthetically pleasing venue that could function as a park.

This vision was pioneering for its time, and today it is a favored spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, or a peaceful afternoon with a captivating read.

The site is open for visitation from dawn until dusk, free of charge.