Bangor, Maine
Maine is a wonderful city that has become famous in folklore due to inspiring some aspect of the novels of Stephen King, but it is also a fantastically friendly and hospitable place to visit.
Bangor in a nutshell
Located on the banks of the Penobscot River, Bangor is most famous for being the birthplace of iconic author Stephen King. Perhaps this city, a cultural and commercial center in Maine, has been great inspiration for his numerous scary novels, but there’s much more to Maine, if you take the time to explore.
The city offers plenty of natural splendor, evident along the Orono Bog Boardwalk and the lush Demerrit Forest. In the summer, rock climbing is a popular pastime, and come winter-time, nearby skiing opportunities are superb. River adventures in the Penobscott and Stillwater Rivers abound, and Bangor is also a great base from which to explore Atlantic Canada as well as 4 of Maine’s most spectacular regions – Aroostook County, Down East & Acadia, The Maine Highlands and Maine’s Mid-Coast, each region offering stunning outdoor adventures and scenic beauty.
Bangor has lots to offer the visitor. The historic downtown area features great shopping and dining, while the restored Waterfront is now a major source of entertainment for visitors and locals alike. You’ll find evidence of Bangor’s lumber history everywhere – those who became rich from the industry built grand homes throughout the city.
On a more sinister note, you can tour the locations Stephen King made famous in his horror stories. Or you can enjoy a variety of fascinating museums, including the University of Maine Art Museum, the Cole Land Transportation Museum and the Maine Forest and Logging Museum, all offering a different insight into this captivating city and its surroundings.
Best time to visit: In the summer months, June to August, when the weather is warm.
Best Area for Sightseeing: Bangor is a delightful place to visit and as a base from which to explore further, it offers endless opportunities. See Things to do in Bangor below for some great ideas.
Shopping in Bangor: Downtown in the historic district you’ll find numerous shops offering everything from clothing to great gifts and souvenirs. The outdoor markets here are also worth exploring. Between Hogan Road and Stillwater Avenue are a number of modern malls, where you can pick up a variety of items including locally made crafts.
Food & Restaurants in Bangor: From inexpensive fast food to traditional eateries, Bangor has it all, including a variety of global restaurants offering Indian, Chinese, Thai, Italian… you name it.
Nightlife: There’s plenty to do after dark at live music and DJ venues, restaurants and clubs.
Things to do in Bangor:
- Explore the Cole Land Transportation Museum to see a variety of historic transportation equipment, including snow plows, logging vehicles, antique fire trucks and more.
- Visit Mount Hope Cemetery, resting place for numerous famous people as well as the location for Stephen King’s horror film, Pet Sematary.
- Stroll along Penobscot River Walkway and enjoy spectacular river views.
- Discover the Maine Discovery Museum, with stunning interactive displays exploring nature, geography, literature, music, art and science.
- See the Paul Bunyan Statue, a legendary figure in the lumber industry.
Best way to get around: Rent a car and explore. In the summer, you can rent a bicycle.