The Small City In Maine That's One Of The Coolest In The U.S.
By Michelle|Updated on July 11, 2023(Originally published July 06, 2023)
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Michelle
Author
Michelle has lived in many places, but counts Maine as one of the best. In addition to the smell of ocean water in the air on rainy days in Portland, she loves puppies, photography, funny people, the Maine Red Claws, traveling, fresh tomatoes, Cambodia and filling out forms. For questions, comments and inquiries please email: mstarin@onlyinyourstate.com.
While we think all of Maine is pretty cool, we recognize that some people might not realize it. And that’s okay! That just means more for us! But, we’ve also noticed that news outlets across the country like to include Maine towns on their lists of coolest cities. The one we see most often is Portland. While we agree that Portland is pretty cool, we think there are lots of other cool places throughout the state. That’s why we were pretty excited when we noticed that in 2017, Matador named a different city to their list of coolest cities in America! Bangor Maine will always have a special place in our hearts. If you’ve ever been curious about fun things to do in Bangor, Maine, or even wondered, “Is Bangor, Maine worth visiting?” we’ve got the answers!
Bangor is seriously cool and here are just a few places that remind us why!
The Penobscot Theatre Company has been delighting Maine audiences for over 40 years. It currently exists in the second version of the Bangor Opera House (the first burned down in 1914.) Audiences can enjoy live theatrical performances, music and much more. For more about what's going on, check out The Penobscot Theatre Company website. Visit them at: 131 Main Street in Bangor / 207-942-3333
If you love the stranger side of Maine, you'll love gawking at that of Paul Bunyan. Minnesota might lay the best claim to him, but Maine's lumber history means we deserve a piece of him looking over us as well. The statue is located in a park across from the Civic Center and stands tall at about 31 feet high.
Whoever said you can't enjoy being outside while in a city never strolled down Bangor's Penobscot River Walkway. The scenic trail runs for about a half mile through Waterfront Park between Union Street and the intersection of Railroad and Front streets. The trail runs along the riverbank and there are tons of events to enjoy at the park throughout the year.
Cascade Park is a wonderful way to escape the city without going very far. We think that's pretty cool! You'll find everything from easy to moderate trails here, along with a nice man-made waterfall, a fountain and a gazebo. This is a great place to enjoy a picnic in the summer. It's located on State Street near the riverfront.
The Rock and Art Shop
The Rock and Art Shop, 36 Central St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA
This shop is so wonderfully unique that it's worth a stop even just to look around. They stock everything from fossils, jewelry, air plants, succulent and some of the most unique gifts you'll find anywhere. It's fun to go and explore the shelves since there's always something new here! Visit them at: 36 Central Street in Bangor / 207-947-2205. Make sure to check out their website for more awesome Rock and Art shop needs.
More than just a museum with facts about history and science, the MDM acts as a wonderful community resource. The museum provides a chance for awesome exploration and discovery. And the best part is that it incorporates elements of Maine into a larger understanding of the world. Visit them at: 74 Main Street in Bangor / 207-262-7200 Make sure to head on over to the Maine Discovery Museum website for tickets, times, and information.
The Bangor City Forest, offers wooded trails the run for several miles. The area offers a great opportunity to understand the local ecology as trails go right though the bog area via a boardwalk. Benches for resting during your walk. The official address is 73 Harlow Street in Bangor / 207-992-4490
Maine's Savings Ampitheater (formally known as Darling's Waterfront Pravillion)
Maine Savings Amphitheater, 1 Railroad St, Bangor, ME 04401, USA
If you only think of Portland when you think of concert venues in Maine, you're missing out on one of the most popular spots to see a show in the State. Maine's Savings Ampitheater has a great view of the river and there's a fair amount of regular seating and lawn space. Click here to check out this summer's schedule! Visit them at: 1 Railroad Street in Bangor / 207-358-9327
Talk about cool! This place looks trendy, but inside offers Mainers the opportunity to celebrate all things Maine. The full service 150-seat restaurant also features a bar and lounge. It's named "Timber" to pay homage to named to the city's rich history in the lumber industry. Visit them at: 22 Bass Park Blvd in Bangor / 207-433-0844. Make sure to check out the Timber Kitchen and Bar website for any more information.
We really think Bangor Maine is an amazing town and now we hope you do too. What are some of your favorite things about Bangor Maine? It’s a big city with lots to do so let us know in the comments below. Now that you know about the coolest city, read about the 10 most dangerous cities in Maine here!
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More to Explore
Bangor Maine
Chris Dodge|July 12, 2022
What are some other fun things to do in Bangor Maine?
Some fun things to do in Bangor, Maine include:
Steven King's house
Riverfront restaurants along the Penobscot River
Bull Moose Music
We know that Bangor Maine is an awesome and happening place. So here are some other things to do in Bangor to spice up any trip. How about taking a tour of the roadside attractions all throughout the city. Snap a picture with Paul Bunyan or visit and scare your socks off at Steven King’s house. Either way, these roadside attractions are an interesting find in Bangor. Go antiquing at not just one but two great antique stores. Indulge in some great-tasting foods with amazing views at these four restaurants along the Penobscot River. Don't forget to take a trip to the mall and check out the stores, or one other stopping option is Bull Moose Music in Bangor. Several Bull Moose Music stores have found their way across Maine and the Bangor location lives up to the high quality that you will find at any Bull Moose store. With used and new music, games, books, and movies you are sure to find something you didn't know you needed at Bull Moose. Whatever you choose to do in Bangor you are sure to have a great time.
