When it comes to visiting Maine, most people plan their trips based on the most beautiful spots to see. That might be the coast for some, while others make sure they hit the mountains and lakes. We're not especially picky as long as we're seeing some of the most unique spots the state has to offer. If you also like to walk on the unexpected side, check out this road trip leading to some of our favorite roadside attractions! You can see the full directions and add your own starting point by checking out this Google Map.
1. The Wiggly Bridge, York
You'll be starting your journey in southern Maine, but getting out of the car to enjoy one of the wackiest bridges around. This tiny suspension bridge wiggles and wobbles when you cross it, making for some fun photo ops. You can visit it directly or get the heart pumping by walking the Fisherman's Walk Trail to get there. You can learn more about how to do it here.
2. World's Largest Chocolate Moose, Scarborough
Located inside the famous Len Libby Candies, this chocolate moose weighs in at 1,700 pounds of pure milk chocolate. Lenny, as he is affectionately known, offers some great photos and you'll be able to leave with treats to take with you on the road. Learn more about the shop here.
3. The Desert of Maine, Freeport
This unique spot is truly unrivaled by any other place in the northeast! The area was once fertile farmland, but years of over-cultivation left it completely unusable. Today it's 40 acres of glacial silt from the ground and it offers a strange experience. Those who really want to take it all in can spend a few nights at their campground. It's under new ownership, so if it's been a while since visiting you'll want to check it out again. Check them out on Facebook.
4. Kenneth E. Stoddard Shell Museum, Boothbay
A museum doesn't always fall into the category of roadside attractions, but in this case, we think it's just unique enough to warrant a stop. The museum is named for the original curator who traveled throughout the South Pacific collecting the most interesting shells. Today it's owned and operated by his son who has kept the place going for those who love treasures of the sea.
5. Maine State Prison Showroom, Thomaston
Next, it's onto a completely unexpected shop filled to the brim will handmade items all created by Maine inmates. The work here if high quality and much of it is nautical in theme, which makes this a great place to load up on souvenirs. You can learn more about it here.
6. Stay overnight at The Norumbega Inn, Camden
Depending on how long you've spent at each stop leading up to this point, you may want to stay overnight. This inn is a great option. In keeping with the theme, it's unique in that it looks just like a castle. Be sure to book in advance during the summer and fall as this place is popular. Once you've checked in explore the town of Camden before getting a good night's sleep for tomorrow's sightseeing. And if you want to keep on going to keep this trip to one day, stop on by the inn and continue along. Either way, you can learn more about it here.
7. Nervous Nellie's Jams & Jellies, Deer Isle
We just love this place! While it's a great place to sample some delicious jams and chutneys, it's also a quirky place filled with unique sculptures created by local artist, Peter Beerits. Make sure to plan for enough time to truly take in all of the outdoor gallery. Check out more by following them on Facebook.
8. The Word's Largest Paul Bunyan Statue, Bangor
Okay, to be honest, there really isn't any actual proof that this is the largest Paul Bunyan statue in the world, but it certainly is huge! Maine's lumber history means we get to lay claim to him along with Minnesota and we're pretty proud of that. You'll find the 31-foot statue located in a park across from the Civic Center.
9. Wild Blueberry Land, Columbia Falls
And last up on this tour is the stranger side of Maine is our favorite attraction on this list! What looks like a giant blueberry just off the side of US 1 is actually a farm, gift shop and bakery all rolled into one. Stop in for all your wild blueberry needs and to learn a little something about Maine's favorite fruit. This place is owned and operated by a couple with ties to the wild blueberry research farm at the University of Maine, so you can be sure there's lots of info here. Learn more about it here.
From here you can make your way back to your starting point or explore more of the state by simply driving. Whatever your next step, we know you'll enjoy yourself if you're in Maine.
Have you visited any of these spots? If so, let us know your favorites in the comments! And if there's anything else on this route we need to checkout share that, too!
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