Best attractions and places to see around Bangor offer a mix of historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural experiences. Situated along the Penobscot River, the city provides opportunities to explore its past and engage with its natural surroundings. Visitors can find diverse points of interest, from urban trails to significant landmarks. The area features a variety of attractions suitable for different interests.
Last updated: May 5, 2026
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Orono sits just south of Old Town, Maine, on the Penobscot River. This small town was named for Chief Joseph Orono, a sachem of the Penobscot Nation, whose people have long occupied these lands. It is home to the University of Maine, the state's flagship institution. In large part because of the student population, Orono is full of fun cafes, shops, and restaurants, and is a nice place to stop as you ride around the area.
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The Brewer Riverwalk is a flat, paved path along the eastern banks of the Penobscot River. The path is pretty short, so it's nice to just tack this path onto a longer run.
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The Brewer Riverwalk is a flat, paved path along the eastern banks of the Penobscot River. The path is pretty short and has multiple benches and viewing areas, so it's easy enough for anyone in the family.
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A small park right on the water. Beautiful view of the other side of the river. Good for relaxing and enjoying the sun.
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Stephen King's house in Bangor, Maine, inspired many of his novels. An absolute must for any Stephen King fan!
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A small park right on the water. Nice view of the other side of the river. Well suited for relaxing and enjoying the sun.
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An absolute must for any King fan if you're in Bangor like us. Our children think his novella "The Corpse" is great. It was filmed as Stand by Me in 1985. Bangor and Maine got her into the feel of the film.
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Bangor offers several natural areas for exploration. The Roland F. Perry City Forest provides over 9 miles of multi-use trails for various activities. Within the City Forest, you'll find the Orono Bog Boardwalk, a one-mile wheelchair-accessible loop through unique wetland ecosystems. You can also enjoy the Bangor Waterfront Park along the Penobscot River, offering scenic views and a place to relax.
Yes, Bangor features several accessible walking paths. The Brewer Riverwalk is a flat, paved trail along the eastern banks of the Penobscot River, suitable for all ages. The Bangor Waterfront Park also offers pleasant strolls with river views. Additionally, the Kenduskeag Stream Trail provides an urban nature break with mixed surfaces.
Bangor is rich in history. You can see the iconic Paul Bunyan Statue, a 31-foot tribute to the legendary lumberjack. Mount Hope Cemetery, established in 1834, is Maine's oldest rural cemetery and features Gothic Revival and Victorian monuments. The Thomas Hill Standpipe is another historic and iconic structure in the city.
For a deep dive into the city's past, visit the Bangor Historical Society and Thomas A. Hill House Museum. The Cole Land Transportation Museum preserves Maine's transportation history and military legacy. For art enthusiasts, the Zillman Art Museum, affiliated with the University of Maine, specializes in modern and contemporary art.
Absolutely! The Maine Discovery Museum is Maine's largest children's museum, offering three floors of interactive exhibits focused on science, nature, art, and literature. Outdoor options like the Brewer Riverwalk and the Orono Bog Boardwalk are also great for families.
Near Bangor's attractions, you can find various outdoor activities. For running, explore routes like the Kenduskeag Stream Trail or the Bangor Waterfront run. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy the East Coast Greenway or routes through the Roland F. Perry City Forest. Hiking options include the Kenduskeag Stream Trail and the Bangor City Forest. You can find more details on hiking, cycling, and running guides for the area.
Bangor boasts a vibrant arts scene. The Penobscot Theatre Company, located in the historic Bangor Opera House, offers live performances. The Bangor Symphony Orchestra is one of the oldest continually performing orchestras in the U.S. For larger events, the Maine Savings Amphitheater at the waterfront hosts world-class concerts, and the Collins Center for the Arts at the University of Maine also offers captivating performances.
Yes, several areas are designed for accessibility. The Orono Bog Boardwalk is a one-mile loop that is fully wheelchair-accessible, offering an immersive experience in Maine's wetlands. The Bangor Waterfront Park and the Brewer Riverwalk are also flat and paved, making them suitable for wheelchairs.
Fans of author Stephen King often visit Stephen King's House. While not open to the public, this Victorian mansion with its distinctive spiderweb gate is a popular point of interest and photo opportunity for his admirers. It will soon serve as a writers' retreat.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical sites, natural beauty, and cultural experiences. Many enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the Bangor Waterfront Park and the easy walks along the Brewer Riverwalk. Fans of Stephen King find his former home a must-see. The diverse range of attractions, from urban trails to significant landmarks, caters to various interests.
Yes, areas like Old Town and Orono, located near Bangor, offer a variety of local restaurants, cafes, and shops. The downtown Bangor area also provides numerous dining and shopping options, especially along the Penobscot River waterfront where food trucks sometimes gather.


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