Bangor is Maine’s third-largest city and the undisputed hub of northern and eastern Maine. Sitting at the confluence of the Penobscot and Kenduskeag rivers, Bangor serves as the gateway to Maine’s great north woods, Acadia National Park, and the rugged Downeast coast. Whether you’re passing through or staying a while, Bangor rewards visitors with a thriving arts scene, excellent restaurants, rich history, and some of the friendliest people in New England.
Things to Do in Bangor
Bangor punches well above its weight when it comes to things to do. The city is the birthplace of horror legend Stephen King, and fans make the pilgrimage to see his famously ornate Victorian home on West Broadway. The Maine Discovery Museum offers hands-on exhibits for families, while the Bangor Museum and History Center brings the city’s fascinating past to life.
Outdoor lovers will find plenty to keep them busy. The Kenduskeag Stream Trail winds through the heart of the city, and the annual Kenduskeag Stream Canoe Race every April is one of New England’s most beloved paddling events. Mount Hope Cemetery, one of the oldest garden cemeteries in the US, is a surprisingly beautiful spot for a walk.
Where to Stay in Bangor
Bangor has a full range of lodging options from major hotel chains clustered near the interstate and Bangor Mall to charming bed and breakfasts in the historic district. The Hollywood Casino Hotel offers entertainment alongside comfortable rooms, while smaller properties like the Charles Inn provide a more intimate experience in a beautifully restored Victorian building in the heart of the city.
Restaurants & Dining in Bangor
Bangor’s dining scene has grown significantly in recent years. Mama Baldacci’s is a local institution for Italian food, while Timber Kitchen & Bar offers creative New American cuisine. The waterfront area along the Penobscot has seen new restaurant development, and the city’s craft beer scene is thriving with breweries like Orono Brewing Company maintaining a Bangor presence.
Getting to Bangor
Bangor International Airport (BGR) serves the region with direct flights to several major hubs. By car, Bangor sits at the junction of I-95 and I-395, making it easily accessible from Portland (about 2 hours south) and the rest of New England. It’s also the last major city before heading north into Aroostook County or east toward Acadia and the Downeast coast.
Day Trips from Bangor
Bangor’s central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Maine. Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor are about an hour east. The lakes and mountains of central Maine are equally close to the west. Head north on I-95 and you’re in moose country within 30 minutes. The Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory in Bucksport is a spectacular 20-minute drive south.