20 Best Things to do in Rockland!
Located on Maine’s scenic coast, Rockland beckons with its rugged charm and maritime heritage. Known as the “Lobster Capital of the World“, this small town boasts not only stunning coastal views but also a vibrant arts scene and delectable seafood. In this comprehensive guide, we showcase the hidden gems and best things to do in Rockland during your visit to Maine.
In this Article
1. Must-See Attractions
Farnsworth Art Museum
The Farnsworth Art Museum is a wonderful place to explore American art in Rockland. The museum focuses on artists who have lived or worked in Maine. Highlights include works by the Wyeth family, with pieces by Andrew, N.C., and Jamie Wyeth. The museum also hosts temporary exhibits, offering something new to discover. The Farnsworth has several buildings, including the Wyeth Center, and lovely gardens for a peaceful stroll. Friendly and knowledgeable staff offer guided tours for deeper insights.
Maine Lighthouse Museum
The Maine Lighthouse Museum is a must-see for maritime history enthusiasts in Rockland. It houses the largest collection of lighthouse artifacts in the U.S., including lenses and tools. You’ll learn about Maine’s lighthouses and their role in guiding ships. The knowledgeable staff shares interesting stories and answers questions. Displays on the U.S. Coast Guard highlight their involvement in lighthouse operations. Outside, enjoy a beautiful view of the harbor. This museum offers visitors a unique and educational experience.
Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
The Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse is an iconic landmark in Rockland. The lighthouse sits at the end of a long granite breakwater, extending nearly a mile into the harbor. Walking the breakwater is an adventure with stunning views on both sides. The historic lighthouse, built in 1902, still guides ships into the harbor. It offers great photo opportunities and a chance to enjoy peaceful surroundings. Locals visit for walks, fishing, or birdwatching. The combination of the walk, views, and lighthouse makes it a memorable experience.
Main Street Historic District
The Main Street Historic District is a charming area filled with history in Rockland. The district is lined with well preserved 19th century buildings. It’s home to art galleries, unique shops and restaurants. Locals are friendly and share history or dining recommendations. The Strand Theatre, a beautifully restored historic theater, hosts movies and live shows. The Farnsworth Art Museum offers a fantastic collection of American art. The district blends history, culture, and modern charm, making it a unique destination.
Owls Head Transportation Museum
The Owls Head Transportation Museum is a fascinating place to visit in Rockland. It features a unique collection of historic aircraft, cars, and engines. Highlights include beautifully restored vintage cars and early planes. The museum also has interactive displays for all ages. Frequent events like antique car shows and air shows bring the exhibits to life. The knowledgeable staff share stories and answer questions. It’s a fascinating place for anyone interested to know about transportation history.
2. Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Kayaking and paddleboarding in Rockland are fantastic ways to explore the coastline. The calm waters and stunning views suit both beginners and experienced paddlers. You can rent equipment from local shops, which also offer guided tours. As you paddle, you’ll see beautiful landscapes and perhaps some wildlife like seals and seabirds. Safety is important, so wear a life jacket and check the weather. Local guides can provide tips to enhance your adventure. Check out Breakwater Kayak Co. for best kayaking experience in Rockland.
Sailing and Boat Tours
Rockland offers captivating sailing adventures and boat tours along its scenic coast. Explore the Atlantic’s tranquility on a sailboat or join a tour to discover local landmarks and wildlife. Experienced captains and knowledgeable guides ensure an enriching experience, sharing tales of maritime history and natural wonders. Plan ahead for seasonal weather and book early to secure your spot for maritime journey. Check out A Morning in Maine or Bufflehead Sailing Charters for best bout tour excursions.
Fishing Charters
Rockland offers excellent fishing charters for both beginners and experienced anglers. Choose from a variety of charters targeting striped bass, bluefish, and more. Enjoy knowledgeable captains, stunning coastal views, and possible wildlife sightings like seals and seabirds. Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak and crowded seasons, to ensure availability. Experience the beauty of Maine’s coast while fishing in serene waters. Check out Ten Mile Guide Service for experiencing fishing charter tours.
Coastal Hiking Trails
Rockland offers wonderful coastal hiking trails perfect for nature lovers. The Rockland Breakwater Trail leads to a lighthouse on a long granite pier with beautiful harbor views. Beech Hill Preserve takes you through forests and meadows to a hilltop with panoramic coastal views. Owls Head State Park offers trails through woods and along rocky shorelines. The views are breathtaking, and you might spot some birds and wildlife. These trails are well maintained and it provides a peaceful outdoors.
Biking Adventures
Biking adventures in Rockland offer a great way to explore the area. The town has several scenic routes for cyclists of all levels. One popular route is the Rockland Breakwater Trail, which provides stunning ocean views. For a more challenging ride, try the loop around Ash Point Preserve, offering forest and coastline views. Rockland has several bike rental shops with various bikes and route maps. Biking lets you see Rockland’s beauty and get fresh air. It’s perfect for leisurely rides or challenging adventures.
Rock Climbing and Bouldering
Rockland offers excellent rock climbing and bouldering opportunities. Coastal cliffs and inland areas cater to climbers of all levels. Camden Hills State Park has challenging routes with ocean views. Several accessible bouldering areas provide fun challenges. Local shops offer gear rentals and information on the best spots. Safety is key, so climb with a partner and know your limits. Rockland’s beauty makes climbing a thrilling way to explore the outdoors.
Golfing Courses
Rockland is home to a lovely golf course perfect for both locals and visitors. Samoset Golf Course and Rockland Golf Club offers beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. The well maintained greens and fairways in golf course provide a great playing experience. The welcoming atmosphere is a highlight, with friendly staff ready to help. You can rent equipment and find gear at the pro shop. There’s also a practice area to warm up or work on your swing. After your game, relax at the clubhouse with refreshments.
3. Iconic Landmarks
Rockland Harbor Trail
The Rockland Harbor Trail in Maine, is a lovely place for a leisure walk. This trail offers scenic views of the harbor and coastline, suitable for all ages. As you stroll, you’ll pass by boats, piers, and possibly local wildlife. There are benches along the way for resting and enjoying the view. The trail provides access to several parks and beaches. The harbor is bustling with fishing and sailboats, great for photos. It’s close to shops and restaurants, making it a relaxing outdoor activity.
Sail Power & Steam Museum
The Sail Power & Steam Museum is a great place to learn about maritime history. The museum showcases boats, engines, and artifacts from different eras. Highlights include classic sailboats, powerboats, and steam engines. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, sharing stories and answering questions. Interactive displays and activities make it family-friendly. Events and demonstrations, like boat-building workshops, provide deeper insights. It’s a fun and educational place to appreciate historic boats and engines.
Coastal Children’s Museum
The Coastal Children’s Museum is a fantastic place for families with kids in Rockland. It offers interactive exhibits that are fun and educational. Highlights include a boat-building station and a marine touch tank for kids to explore. The staffs are so friendly and helpful, ensuring a great experience. Special events and programs add to the excitement. It’s a perfect destination for a family day out, encouraging curiosity and creativity. Kids can have fun filled experience while discovering new things.
Breakwater Vineyards
The Breakwater Vineyards is a wonderful place to visit just outside of Rockland. The vineyard offers beautiful views of the countryside and is perfect for wine lovers. Visitors can tour the entire vineyard and learn about the wine-making process. The tasting room allows visitors to sample variety of wines. There are picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal with a view. The vineyard hosts special events like wine tastings and live music. It’s a lovely destination to unwind and enjoy Maine’s scenic beauty.
4. Family-Friendly Activities
Sandy Beach Park
The Sandy Beach Park is a lovely spot for a day out in Rockland. The beach offers soft sand and clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Families enjoy picnics and sandcastle building. Picnic tables and benches provide relaxation spots, and there’s a playground for kids. A leisurely walk along the shore offers peaceful surroundings and ocean views. It’s also great for watching the sunset, with beautiful colors over the water. It’s a relaxing place to enjoy Rockland’s natural beauty.
Rockland Harbor Park
The Rockland Harbor Park in Maine, is a great spot to relax by the water. The park offers beautiful harbor views and is perfect for a peaceful stroll. Watch the boats or sit on a bench and enjoy the view. It’s family-friendly with open spaces for kids to play and picnic tables for meals. Locals and visitors love this spot. Events like concerts and festivals add a lively atmosphere. Rockland Harbor Park is a wonderful place to enjoy the harbor’s beauty of Rockland.
Explore local art galleries
Exploring local art galleries is a delightful experience in Rockland. The town has a vibrant art scene with galleries showcasing local talent. The Farnsworth Art Museum is a must-visit with its impressive American art collection. The Caldbeck Gallery features contemporary art and local exhibitions. Harbor Square Gallery, near the waterfront, offers a mix of paintings, sculptures, and photography. Walking through Rockland, you’ll discover many small galleries and studios. Supporting local artists and enjoying their creativity is a perfect activity for art lovers.
Penobscot Bay
The Penobscot Bay is a beautiful place to visit in Rockland. The bay is known for its clear waters and scenic views, perfect for boating, fishing, and sailing. You can take a boat tour to explore the bay and see the islands. Wildlife watching is popular, with seals, seabirds, and porpoises. Local seafood is a highlight, with fresh catches served in Rockland’s restaurants. Penobscot Bay offers activities and relaxation, making it a perfect coastal destination. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy Maine’s natural beauty.
How to Reach Rockland
Getting to Rockland in Maine, is easy and straightforward. The closest major airport is Portland International Jetport, about 80 miles away in Portland. You can rent a car or take a shuttle service to Rockland, with the scenic drive taking about an hour and a half. If you prefer trains, the Amtrak Downeaster runs from Boston to Brunswick, where you can catch a bus or drive to Rockland.
Concord Coach Lines provides direct bus routes from Boston to Rockland. Driving via U.S. Route 1 is also a great option, with picturesque stops along the way. Reaching Rockland is a pleasant journey, and you’ll find a charming coastal town waiting to be explored.
Local Transportation
Getting around Rockland is easy. You can walk downtown, where Main Street is great for exploring galleries, shops, and restaurants. If you prefer, rent a bike to ride along the scenic coastal roads or explore nearby nature trails. During the summer, take advantage of the free Rockland Trolley to visit museums and beaches. For longer trips or exploring outside Rockland, renting a car is the best way to see more of the coastal beauty and nearby attractions.
FAQ’s (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. When is the best time to visit Rockland, Maine?
The best time to visit Rockland is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is mild and perfect for exploring the outdoors. The Maine Lobster Festival in late July is a highlight, attracting food lovers and festival-goers from all over.
2. What are some must-see attractions in Rockland, Maine?
Rockland offers a variety of attractions catering to different interests. Don’t miss the Farnsworth Art Museum, showcasing Maine’s artistic heritage, and the Maine Lighthouse Museum, which delves into the region’s maritime history. For outdoor enthusiasts, the scenic Breakwater Path offers stunning views of the harbor and is perfect for a leisurely walk.
3. What are some family-friendly activities in Rockland, Maine?
Families will enjoy exploring the Coastal Children’s Museum, where kids can engage in hands-on activities related to marine life and local history. The Owls Head Transportation Museum, a short drive from Rockland, showcases antique cars, planes, and trains that are sure to fascinate visitors of all ages.
4. Where can I enjoy fresh seafood in Rockland, Maine?
Rockland is renowned for its seafood restaurants and lobster shacks. Visit local favorites like Claws, where you can enjoy a traditional lobster dinner with views of the harbor, or Primo, known for its farm-to-table cuisine featuring fresh local ingredients.
5. Are there any outdoor activities available in Rockland, Maine?
Yes, Rockland offers plenty of outdoor activities such as hiking along the Rockland Breakwater to the historic lighthouse, kayaking or paddleboarding in the calm waters of Penobscot Bay, or taking a scenic cruise to spot seals and seabirds.
