Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Jay, Maine

Situated in west-central Maine’s Franklin County, the charming town of Jay is approximately equidistant from Canada to the north, New Hampshire to the west, and the Atlantic coast to the south.

Similar to various towns in Maine, Jay is recognized for its unique granite deposits, which have been highly prized for generations due to their distinctive texture and pattern.

Jay is located on the northwestern edge of one of Maine’s most extensive lake regions, which runs in a northeast direction between Lewiston and Waterville, offering numerous recreational opportunities.

Presented below are 15 of the premier activities to experience in and around Jay, Maine.

1. Maine’s Paper and Heritage Museum

With its expansive forests that are ideal for the pulp and paper industry, it is unsurprising that these sectors have played a vital role in the state’s economic development.

Almost twenty years ago, a group of community-focused individuals initiated the establishment of a museum aimed at preserving and promoting the paper industry and its effects on the local community.

Typically open from Memorial Day until the beginning of October, the museum offers an affordable attraction for enthusiasts of history and heritage.

The museum, situated on Church Street in Livermore Falls, showcases various paper towns along the Androscoggin River.

2. The Apple and Pumpkin Festival

Few locations rival the beauty of New England in the fall. With its plentiful lakes, majestic mountains, and extensive forests, it is particularly stunning when the foliage transforms into vibrant autumn colors.

Taking place from late September through early October, Livermore Falls’ Apple and Pumpkin Festival serves as an excellent opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities before the onset of winter.

The festival features a multitude of family-friendly activities, historical displays, and numerous local vendors offering everything from pies and organic health and body products to seasonal decorations and handcrafted items.

3. Grafton Notch State Park

Situated in Oxford County’s Grafton Township, Grafton Notch State Park encompasses over 3,000 acres and derives its name from the narrow band or notch adjacent to Old Speck and Baldpate Mountains.

The state park is positioned along one of Maine’s most picturesque roadways and includes numerous pull-off areas providing unhindered views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and forests.

The park offers a wide range of year-round activities, including camping, fishing, hiking, and particularly bird-watching.

It is common to observe a variety of wildlife along the park’s trails, so ensure your camera is fully charged for capturing memorable moments.

4. Spruce Mountain Ski Slope

Although it may not compare in size to renowned ski destinations such as Stowe and Killington, Spruce Mountain Ski Slope offers convenience, affordability, and serves as an ideal location for an alpine outing for families who wish to avoid significant travel time and costs.

The mountain features over ten trails, the majority of which are equipped for snowmaking.

The resort has been in operation for over 50 years, owned by the towns of Livermore and Livermore Falls. For those who are inexperienced, it is an excellent place to take a lesson or two before venturing out independently.

5. Washburn-Norlands Living History

Maine boasts a rich agricultural heritage that dates back to the area’s establishment, where farming represented a matter of utmost importance for families.

Numerous original farms continue to operate similarly to how they did years ago, and the Washburn-Norlands Living History Center provides a unique and comprehensive insight into the region’s agricultural and cultural history.

This is much more than merely a museum where touching is prohibited; the living history center invites visitors to engage actively, creating an especially enjoyable experience for children.

It is the oldest facility of its kind in the state and features various onsite buildings, equipment, and exhibits.

6. Maine State Museum

As one of the oldest state-administered and funded museums in the nation, it is unsurprising that the Maine State Museum serves as one of the most comprehensive collections of historical artifacts in the region.

The museum features displays and interactive exhibits that encompass history, culture, science, art, and the natural environment.

There is something for everyone, regardless of age. Previous attendees have particularly enjoyed the life-size replica watermill and the exhibitions that highlight the various Native American tribes that inhabited the state prior to European settlement.

Located in Augusta, the museum is accessible year-round.

7. Fort Western Living History Museum

Also situated in Augusta, the Fort Western National Historic Landmark and Living History Museum is the oldest wooden fort in the United States, constructed in the mid-1750s.

It was primarily active during the French and Indian War and contains various exhibits focusing on nearly three centuries of New England history.

The museum generally operates from Memorial Day through the end of fall and attracts both adults and children.

Guided tours provide the most value, as the guides are attired in period costumes and employ the vernacular of the era, thereby making the experience both instructional and enjoyable.

8. Viles Arboretum

Comprising over 200 acres of trees, shrubs, plants, and flowers, the Viles Arboretum showcases hundreds of species across professionally curated gardens.

The arboretum remains accessible daily from sunrise to sunset and boasts a variety of well-marked paths leading to different garden spaces.

Additionally, it hosts the most extensive collection of outdoor sculptures in the state, creating a beautiful fusion of natural and artistic elements.

It’s feasible to explore the arboretum within an hour, but for those wishing to take a more leisurely pace, it is easy to spend several hours enjoying the scenery.

9. Mount Blue State Park

Situated near the town of Weld in Franklin County, Mount Blue State Park stands as another of Maine’s natural treasures that offers diverse attractions for visitors.

With ample campsites, a boat launch, and a picturesque lakeside setting, Mount Blue draws guests year-round, with a peak in visitors during the relatively warm spring and summer months.

Activities such as fishing, boating, swimming, and hiking are prevalent in the warmer months, and with almost 8,000 acres to explore, there are plentiful opportunities for recreation.

Most campsites are located in wooded areas near the lake and fill quickly during peak season.

10. Children’s Discovery Museum

Augusta’s Children’s Discovery Museum may not be the largest in the world, but it compensates for its size with engaging activities aimed at keeping children entertained for hours.

The museum’s exhibits promote active participation, allowing children to have fun while simultaneously expending that familiar excess energy.

In contrast to some of Maine’s attractions, the museum remains open during the winter; it’s an excellent venue to spend a few hours, particularly during uninviting weather.

11. The Lewiston-Auburn Liberty Festival

Independence Day represents a significant national celebration, particularly in New England where it originated.

The Lewiston-Auburn Liberty Festival unfolds on the scenic banks of the Androscoggin River. In addition to honoring the nation’s founding, it showcases various arts and crafts, guest speakers, and a plethora of delightful food and activities.

This all-day celebration features a flag retirement ceremony, live cannon firings, and the ever-popular fireworks display.

Be sure to bring your camera, some sparklers, and either folding chairs or a blanket to comfortably enjoy the fireworks show.

12. Great Falls Balloon Festival

The Great Falls Balloon Festival is another notable event of the twin cities of Lewiston-Auburn that attracts visitors from various regions.

Held in August during ideal Maine weather, the festival’s charming environment and stunning scenery annually draw thousands of visitors.

Established in the early ’90s, it incorporates activities that take place across multiple venues.

In addition to the balloon launch, numerous vendors offer food, clothing, arts, and crafts, many of which are produced by local artisans and entrepreneurs.

Stay mindful of local weather conditions, as they may impact balloon launches.

13. Midcoast Symphony Orchestra

With origins tracing back nearly three decades, the Midcoast Symphony Orchestra began modestly but has since expanded to a full symphony orchestra.

The orchestra performs a diverse selection of classical and contemporary pieces during their scheduled concerts each season.

Many attendees report that their experiences significantly exceeded their expectations, presenting excellent value compared to pricier symphony performances in larger cities.

Comprised of 80 volunteer musicians and soloists, the orchestra performs at several local venues throughout the year.

14. Colby College Museum of Art

Located in Waterville, the Colby College Museum of Art is a hidden treasure for those willing to wander off the conventional tourist paths.

The museum is free to enter and contains an extensive collection of art displayed in five distinct galleries.

This includes works from many notable New England artists, along with an on-site café that offers an inviting space to relax and enjoy a coffee after exploring.

The museum is more extensive than most comparable college art museums; art enthusiasts should allocate an hour or two to fully appreciate the collection.

15. Play some Disc Golf

Disc golf has gained popularity as a pastime in recent years, and Maine features several courses. Situated in Augusta, Quarry Run Disc Golf boasts 18 scenic holes; players can enjoy a single round or purchase a day pass.

In contrast to traditional golf, disc golf does not require significant investment in equipment and can be practiced year-round.

Porcupine Ridge Disc Golf presents another 18-hole course nearby; both courses can be played in one day for those seeking variety. They encompass open and wooded areas, providing both beauty and challenge.