The Best Things to Do in Bangor, Maine

As one of the largest cities in Maine, Bangor is home to many attractions. From a rich history and culture combined with being conveniently located to some of the best natural attractions in the state, Bangor, Maine is a great place to visit. 


With so many things to do, it can be hard to determine where to go. This is why we’ve put together a list of recommendations of some of the best places to visit to help you plan the perfect stay in Bangor.


Downtown Bangor


If you want to experience our city's culture, you should stop by Downtown Bangor.

The downtown area has plenty to offer any kind of traveler. One of the most prominent features of Downtown is the lively food and nightlife scene. Ethnic cuisines from around the world are available, located next to farm-to-table restaurants, casual eateries, and gastropubs.


You’ll also find numerous shopping opportunities from a variety of local vendors, from art to jewelry to specialty items.


In addition, Bangor sports a lively arts scene in the downtown area. From an outdoor music venue showcasing live music to theaters presenting live theatrical and dance performances.


To learn more about what Downtown Bangor has to offer, visit their website.


Museums in Bangor, ME


Bangor, ME has several museums that preserve unique facets of the city’s past. These museums educate and safeguard the city's heritage, stories, and identity.


Here are some of the most popular museums in Bangor.


The Maine Discovery Museum

  • 74 Main St, Bangor, ME
  • Open Tues - Sat: 10 AM - 5 PM


As the largest children’s museum in the state, the Maine Discovery Museum is immensely popular among locals and visitors alike. The philosophy behind the museum is teaching through interactive play. 


Each of the three floors of this museum features exhibits that cover art, culture, nature, science, and more. Thanks to the toddler play area, even the smallest children can find excitement here.


Cole Land Transportation Museum

  • 405 Perry Rd, Bangor, ME 


The Cole Land Transportation Museum is a perfect destination for anyone interested in any kind of motorized vehicle. With an impressive collection of over 200 vehicles ranging from train cars to fire engines, the museum promises to take guests on an educational journey through time. 


Guests of all ages can have a fantastic time learning about history, especially through scavenger hunts that the museum has set up.


Maine Forest and Logging Museum

  • 262 Government Rd, Bradley, ME


This open-air museum is one of the best locations to learn more about the history and legacy of the Bangor area.


The Maine Forest and Logging Museum takes visitors back in time by showcasing various mills and logging equipment that date back as early as the 1700s. From water-powered mills to modern machinery, guests will gain a better understanding of Maine’s long history of forestry and logging. 


In addition, there are some hiking trails nearby that wind through a forest of mixed hardwoods and conifers, allowing you to marvel at the diversity of habitats and wildlife available here.


Forest Walks and Parks Near Bangor, Maine


Maine is widely known for the beauty of its natural landscapes. With lush, colorful forests and rugged coasts, our state can provide a peaceful refuge for both locals and visitors.


Here are some of the best locations to truly experience the great outdoors in Maine.


Acadia National Park


Acadia National Park is one of the top ten most visited national parks in the United States, and it’s not hard to see why.


Encompassing nearly 50,000 acres along the Atlantic coast, Acadia is home to a staggering diversity of both plant and animal species. It also offers opportunities for a wide variety of outdoor activities, which include:

  • Hiking
  • Cycling
  • Stargazing
  • Birdwatching
  • Boating
  • And more!


One could spend days at Acadia National Park and not experience everything the park offers. 

To help with this, The National Park Service offers some trip itineraries to help you get the most out of your visit to Acadia.


Bar Harbor


While it is known primarily as the gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor, Maine, offers its own distinct, natural beauty as well as rich history and culture.


Bar Harbor is the largest community on Mount Desert Island, located about 50 miles from Bangor International Airport. The area around the town is accented with ocean cliffs, rocky beaches, boreal forests, pristine lakes, and more. The region offers all kinds of adventure year-round, including opportunities to view whales, dolphins, and other kinds of marine wildlife.


Visit the Bar Harbor website to learn more about what the town can offer.


Bangor City Forest


Open throughout the year, the Bangor City Forest offers more than 14 miles of access roads and trails. The paths range from easy to moderate and are consistently groomed. Dogs are allowed on the paths, but only if they are leashed at all times, especially since this area is a working forest with diverse wildlife making their homes here.


Orono Bog Boardwalk


For an up-close look at a unique ecosystem in Maine, take a stroll down the Orono Bog Boardwalk.


Accessible from the Bangor City Forest, the boardwalk takes you through a preserved Maine bog, teeming with a wide variety of plant and animal species. Along the way, you’ll discover clear, colorful signs that will point out the common species that make their home here. 


The boardwalk is wheelchair accessible and you’ll find benches at least every 200 feet.


Essex Woods


The hill at Essex Woods is popular all year round. In the warmer months, the trails here are perfect for those wanting a peaceful stroll through nature, whether on foot or a bike. The hill is also a popular spot for birdwatchers due to the snags in the wetlands here.


During the winter months, the hill becomes a popular spot for sledding.


Book a Bangor Vacation Rental


Bangor Vacation Rentals is your cozy getaway in the heart of Maine. Discover a variety of rentals that cater to every traveler's needs. From charming cottages to sprawling houses, there's a perfect accommodation waiting for you. Each place is beautifully decorated with a comforting, homey vibe. They also come with all of the modern conveniences and amenities you need for a fantastic vacation.


Our rentals are situated close to Downtown Bangor, granting easy access to many of the best attractions around. 


Browse our accommodations and find the rental that’s right for you.