Oxford is a small western Maine town with outsized appeal for outdoor enthusiasts and motorsports fans alike. Home to Oxford Plains Speedway — one of New England’s premier racing venues — the town draws crowds throughout the summer racing season. The surrounding Oxford Hills region offers excellent fishing, hunting, and snowmobiling, with easy access to the ski resorts and mountain trails of the broader western Maine highlands.
Oxford Plains Speedway
Oxford Plains Speedway is the heart of Oxford’s identity — a beloved short-track racing venue that has been drawing fans to western Maine since 1950. Weekly racing events run throughout the summer, culminating in the Oxford 250 — one of the most prestigious short-track races in the northeastern United States. Whether you’re a die-hard racing fan or just looking for a fun summer evening, the Speedway delivers an authentic Maine motorsports experience.
Best Places to Stay in Oxford, Maine
The Inn at Poland Spring in nearby Poland Spring is the most distinctive lodging option in the area — a historic resort property on the grounds of Maine’s famous spring water source, with golf, tennis, and beautiful grounds. Several comfortable motels and inns are available in the Oxford Hills area for those seeking more straightforward accommodations close to the Speedway and the lakes.
Outdoor Recreation near Oxford, Maine
Thompson Lake is one of the finest lakes in the Oxford Hills — a beautiful 2,700-acre lake offering excellent fishing, swimming, and boating. Range Pond State Park in nearby Poland offers swimming, kayaking, and nature trails on beautiful Lower Range Pond. The Oxford Hills region provides easy access to the western Maine mountains, with Shawnee Peak and Sunday River ski resorts just 30-45 minutes away.
Hidden Gems near Oxford
Paris Hill is one of Maine’s most beautiful and least-known historic village centers — a hilltop common of Federal and Greek Revival homes with sweeping views over the Oxford Hills, just a short drive from town. Nezinscot Farm in nearby Turner is one of Maine’s most beloved farm stores, with outstanding organic cheeses, baked goods, and seasonal produce. The Call of the Wild RV Center serves the region’s active RV and outdoor recreation community.
Day Trips from Oxford
Oxford’s central western Maine location puts you within easy reach of some excellent destinations. Portland is about 45 minutes south. The Sunday River ski resort and the town of Bethel are about 45 minutes northwest. Lewiston-Auburn, Maine’s second-largest urban area, is 20 minutes east. The Sabbathday Lake Shaker Community — the last active Shaker community in the world — is just 15 minutes away in New Gloucester.
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