Maine is a state full of surprises, from its rugged coastline to its mysterious forests. In this final installment of our series, we dive into the quirkiest, most fascinating corners of the Pine Tree State.
1. Goddard Mansion
Nestled within Fort Williams Park in Cape Elizabeth, the ruins of Goddard Mansion are a hauntingly beautiful sight. Built in the 1850s, this once-grand home now stands as a skeletal reminder of its former glory. Overgrown with ivy and framed by the park’s dramatic seaside cliffs, it’s a magnet for photographers and history buffs alike. Walking through its crumbled walls feels like stepping into a ghost story.
2. Gnome Village
In the quiet woods of Rangeley, a whimsical world awaits. Gnome Village, with its miniature houses, delicate bridges, and tiny gnome statues, feels like a page from a storybook. Whether you’re marveling at the handcrafted charm of each detail or imagining the little gnome residents bustling about, it’s a delightful reminder that even the smallest things can hold magic.
3. Umbrella Cover Museum
Located on Peaks Island, part of Portland’s Casco Bay, this quirky museum celebrates a niche art form: umbrella covers. Yes, those oft-forgotten sleeves for umbrellas! Founder Nancy 3. Hoffman has curated a collection from around the world, creating a space as charmingly odd as it is surprisingly fascinating. A visit here proves there’s no such thing as an uninteresting subject, if you’re passionate about it.
4. Maine Central Model Railroad
In the small coastal town of Jonesport, the Maine Central Model Railroad brings the history of trains to life on a miniature scale. This elaborate setup captures the charm of Maine’s towns, forests, and railway stations in incredible detail. Whether you’re a dedicated railfan or simply curious, the care and craftsmanship behind this exhibit make it a delightful experience for all ages.
5. Mount Desert Spring Blues Brothers
Driving along Route 3 near Mount Desert Island, you might spot two life-size sculptures of the Blues Brothers standing nonchalantly outside a spring water company. Jake and Elwood are decked out in their signature suits and sunglasses, a surprising and humorous roadside attraction that brings a touch of Chicago blues to Maine’s rugged landscape.
6. Guardians of the Seeds Trolls
Deep in the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens in Boothbay, you’ll find towering wooden trolls guarding their secrets. Designed by artist Thomas Dambo, these massive sculptures were crafted from recycled materials, blending art with nature in a way that feels both ancient and otherworldly. Visitors can follow a trail to discover each troll, making it a magical adventure for all ages.
7. Alexander Art Trail
In the small town of Alexander, the wilderness transforms into an outdoor art gallery. The Alexander Art Trail is a delightful mix of natural beauty and creative expression, featuring sculptures, carvings, and paintings scattered through the woods. Each piece feels like a conversation between the artist and the land, inviting visitors to see Maine’s forest in a new light.
8. Paul Bunyan & Babe the Blue Ox
In the town of Rumford, Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox stand tall, immortalized in larger-than-life sculptures. These colorful figures celebrate Maine’s logging heritage while adding a touch of mythical charm to the town. Whether you’re snapping a selfie with Paul or marveling at Babe’s bright blue hue, it’s a reminder of the legendary figures who loom large in Maine’s identity.
9. Stephen King's Former House
Located in Bangor, the former residence of Stephen King is as eerie and intriguing as you’d expect. The red Victorian mansion, complete with wrought-iron gates featuring bats and spiders, seems like the perfect home for the master of horror. Though King no longer lives here, the house has become a pilgrimage site for fans, radiating the spine-tingling atmosphere of his stories.
10. Wiggly Bridge
York’s Wiggly Bridge may be the smallest suspension bridge in the world, but it packs a lot of charm into its short span. The bridge’s gentle sway as you cross it adds a playful thrill, while the surrounding scenic views of tidal waters make it a peaceful retreat. This quirky little structure is a testament to Maine’s ability to surprise and delight in unexpected ways.
11. The Desert of Maine
A geological oddity near Freeport, the Desert of Maine is a stark expanse of sand in a state known for its forests and coastline. This peculiar landscape was created by poor farming practices in the 19th century, exposing the sandy glacial silt beneath the soil. Today, visitors can wander the dunes and learn about the region’s ecological history, marveling at this surreal anomaly.
12. York Witch Grave
In York’s Old Burying Ground lies a tombstone inscribed with the cryptic words “Witch’s Grave.” Though the stories surrounding this marker are murky, the site has sparked curiosity and folklore for years. Visitors often leave coins, stones, or other tokens, creating an eerie atmosphere of reverence and mystery.
13. Wild Blueberry Land
This blueberry-shaped building in Columbia Falls is an ode to Maine’s beloved fruit. Inside, you’ll find everything from blueberry jams to blueberry-themed memorabilia, celebrating the state’s largest agricultural crop. With its bright blue exterior and whimsical vibe, Wild Blueberry Land is a sweet stop on any Maine adventure.
14. The Wedding Cake House
In Kennebunk, this intricately decorated home looks like it was plucked straight from a fairy tale. Known as the Wedding Cake House, its ornate trim and pastel colors give it a sugary charm that’s hard to resist. Legend has it the house was built as a romantic gesture, adding a layer of sweetness to its storybook appeal.
15. Paul Bunyan Statue
Standing proudly in Bangor is one of the largest Paul Bunyan statues in the country. This 31-foot-tall lumberjack, complete with an axe and a friendly smile, is a nod to Maine’s logging roots. Whether you’re a fan of folklore or just want an iconic photo op, Paul Bunyan is a must-see.
16. Fawcett’s Antique Toy and Art Museum
This eclectic museum in Waldoboro is a treasure trove of nostalgia and creativity. From vintage toys to quirky art pieces, Fawcett’s Antique Toy and Art Museum feels like stepping into the mind of a collector with a passion for the whimsical. It’s a place where every corner has a story to tell.
17. The World’s Largest Telephone
Located in Bryant Pond, this oversized rotary phone commemorates the town’s status as the last community in the U.S. to use hand-cranked party lines. While the phone itself is a fun photo opportunity, it also serves as a tribute to Maine’s unique place in telecommunications history.
18. Abandoned Locomotives – Eagle Lake Township
Hidden deep in the North Woods are the haunting remnants of abandoned locomotives, left to rust in the wilderness. These massive iron machines, once used for logging, now stand as ghostly reminders of a bygone era. Reaching them requires a trek, but the sight of these forgotten giants surrounded by nature is worth the journey.
Maine’s weird and wonderful places are as diverse as its landscapes, offering surprises at every turn. From quirky roadside attractions to awe-inspiring natural wonders, this state has a little bit of magic for everyone. As we close out our series, we invite you to embrace the unexpected and find the extraordinary wherever you roam.
Eccentric Maine: The Weird and Wonderful Places
