Wiscasset, Maine
Wiscasset calls itself The Prettiest Village in Maine. Located west of the Sheepscot River the town has a rich maritime history. Champlain is said to have landed here in 1605 and the town was officially settled in 1663. Wiscasset, like many of it's neighboring towns, has a history steeped in shipbuiling. For many years two very real reminders of the town's heritage sat on the banks of the river. The Luther Little and The Hester, two 4-masted schooners sat for many years, until recently, and were likely two of the most photographed schooners in history.
Sites and Attractions
- Castle Tucker. A Regency-style mansion built in 1807 during the height of Wiscasset's prosperity. The mansion is open to visitors Weds. - Sun., June 1 - Oct. 15.
- Maine Eastern Railroad. Board a restored, vintage railcar for a scenic tour of mid coast Maine. You can ride and enjoy the view for a total of 56.6 miles one way to Rockland.
- Nickels Sortwell House. Built in 1807 by a Captain, ship owner and trader the Colonial-Revival mansion is now operated as an historic house museum.
- Wiscasset Jail and Museum. This historic jail built in 1809 was added to the National Registry of Historic Places in 1970. Tours are offered throughout the summer months.
- The Wiscasset Library. This beautiful building was also built during Wiscasset's time of prosperity in the early 1800s. Beautifully cared for, with shelves that are artfully stocked, you'll want to at least stop and walk through, just be quiet while doing so.
- The Morris Farm. This organic farm and education center was developed on the belief that mid coast farms must be preserved for future generations. The farm and pastures are open to the public and the farm offers a wealth of knowledge to the community through adult workshop and lecture series to school programs and summer camps.
- Take a driving tour. Wiscasset is filled with private homes that are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
- Chewonki Foundation. An incredible resource. Chewonki is an environmental education organization focused on cultivating appreciation and stewardship of the natural world, and challenging and encouraging people to build sustainable communities.
Places to Stay and Eat
- Snow Squall Inn. This sophisticated yet mellow B&B offers rooms and suites as well as a yoga studio and spa.
- Newkirk Inn. The 1870s Greek Revival home is the perfect spot for this small, dog friendly Inn.
- Wiscasset Motor Lodge. Convenient and clean. This is an easy place to pop in and out of.
- The Marston House. Two beautiful rooms make up this cozy carriage house B&B located behind the tasteful antiques shop by the same name.
- Chewonki Campground. Enjoy nature and quietude right next to one of mid coast Maine's leading environmental education facilities.
- Highnote Bed and Breakfast. Immerse yourself in Victorian charm at this three room B&B.
Conserved Areas and Trails
- Cushman Mountain Preserve. Walk, ski, snowshoe or bike the trail past Ice Pond to a scenic view looking south to Cushman Cove. The trail continues on to the Westport Bridge Rd., but is not a loop.
- Chewonki Neck and the Eaton Farm Preserve. The Back River Trail traverses marsh and forested land owned by the Chewonki Foundation. Give yourself about 1 ½ hours for this hike.
- Sortwell Memorial Forest. A 3.9 mile trail network for four season use. The trails connect to the Morris Farm property.