Bangor
Natural and urban pleasure blend in the woods of Maine
Standing over 30 feet tall, the imposing figure of Paul Bunyan rises above the streets of Bangor, massive ax swung over his shoulder. Erected in 1959, the fiberglass-over-metal-frame statue is a nod to the city’s role in the lumber industry, and that industrious spirit still thrives here.
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Located near the North Maine Woods and the Penobscot River on Interstate 95, Bangor was a major port for shipping Maine’s hardwoods out to the world through the late 1800s. Grand mansions from this era can be found tucked in cozy neighborhoods, and several of museums tell the stories of Bangor’s pioneering days. Though today’s visitors will find much to explore from the town’s history, this place isn’t stuck in the past.
The King of Frights
Bangor holds cult status for fans of horror novelist Stephen King. Visitors can stroll by the historic mansion he calls home, perhaps hoping for a glimpse of the author, or they can take a tour of sites known to have inspired famous passages of his books. While Bangor is far from a town of terror, King fans may find a certain chill in the air.
Bangor’s natural beauty shines in its public lands. Experience a walk through a bog habitat and the verdant woodlands of Bangor City Forest, which boasts several miles of trails amid 700 acres of land. Keep your eyes out for beavers, deer, porcupines and more. Continue your explorations at the nearby Walden-Parke Preserve. A more urban experience is found along the Penobscot River Walkway. Catch a fresh breeze off the waterway as you take in the city views.
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For nightlife, restaurants and cultural sites, downtown Bangor is your place. Grab some local ale at a brewpub, or get a bite of the succulent seafood for which Maine is known. The historic art deco Bangor Opera House is home to the Penobscot Theatre Company, which puts on lively performances. The Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway Bangor complex offers live horse racing seasonally and a chance to try your hand with Lady Luck throughout the year.
Catch the American Folk Festival if you are in town during this annual summertime event, which brings dozens of folk bands to town for three days of live music, food and fun on the waterfront. For more cultural opportunities, take a short trip north to the University of Maine, where you will find a renowned art museum and theatrical and musical performances.
Because Bangor is only an hour’s drive to Acadia National Park, a day trip to this wonderland on the Atlantic Coast is definitely worth considering. Stand high upon granite bluffs for expansive views of the stunning sapphire waters of the Atlantic. Head down to the shore to explore tide pools, or hike or bike the many trails that traverse the park. Fall is a favorite time for a visit as the colors of autumn explode, providing contrast to the sea of gray and blue formed by the ocean, rocks and sky.
For More Information
Greater Bangor CVB
800-91-MOOSE
Maine Tourism
888-624-6345