Also known as the queen of the east, Bangor is an interesting place to visit.
It is the commercial and social hub of Northern, Central, and Eastern Maine.
You will find a massive statue of the legendary lumberjack Paul Bunyan standing on Main Street, hinting at Bangor’s past as a center for the timber industry.
Children’s interactive exhibits on nature, science, and the arts are available at the Maine Discovery Museum.
There’s also the University of Maine Museum of Art, which is nearby and specializes in modern and contemporary art.
You will likewise get Stephen King’s house to explore if you are a fan.
There’s a lot to do in Bangor, from museums to restaurants to historic houses and parks.
While the city is mainly associated with Stephen King, there are many other exciting things to do here.
Here are the top 25 things to do in Bangor.
Things to do in Bangor
1. Cole Land Transportation Museum
Perhaps you want to stay exploring Bangor by getting to know a bit of history about the place.
This is a hidden gem for the fans of automobiles, railways, and Maine history.
The museum has an amazing collection of all kinds of land-based transportation machines, from huge road snow blowers to sleds and sleighs to toboggans.
Land Vehicles like trucks, autos, and trains were crucial in shaping and clearing the land that would become the state of Maine.
The Cole Land Transportation Museum aims to preserve all the vehicles utilized for these tasks as well as the history of the entrepreneurs and settlers who made this country their home.
With all of this, Cole Foundation hopes that by sharing these success stories, they will be able to motivate future generations to strive for greatness.
You will find early models of automobiles, snowplows, trains, trucks, fire engines, and many other vehicles here.
In addition, there are other non-vehicle displays, such as an incredibly realistic “genuine” train station that has been painstakingly recreated inside the museum.
There’s also an early automotive garage, a blacksmith’s forge, and even a harness maker’s set up here.
Each display is genuine historical artifacts, not copies or reconstructions, and is frequently complete.
The docents that circulate the museum are approachable and eager to engage in conversation with you.
Furthermore, there is an extensive military memorabilia display available.
Depending on how serious your interest is, allow 1 to 2 hours to take in all the awesomeness.
If you find yourself in Bangor, this is a place you shouldn’t miss.
Address: 405 Perry Rd, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
2. Hollywood Casino, Bangor
If you want a night away from everyday life, the Hollywood casino is just the place.
Hollywood casinos is the first casino to receive a license in the state.
It is run by Penn National Gaming and is owned by Gaming and Leisure Properties.
The casino has 723 slot machines and 12 tables as of 2021, and four suites are among the 152 rooms in the hotel.
Furthermore, the rooms are rather spacious, and the views either overlook the Paul Bunyan statue or the lovely Penobscot River.
Play poker, blackjack, roulette, or just have a whirl in the slots.
Simply watch a game on TV or eat at a restaurant whenever you need to take a break from playing and unwind.
Smoking is not permitted inside the casino.
One plus of being there is that they have a small beverage center where you can get your own coffee or soda for free.
Address: 500 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
3. Timber Kitchen and Bar, Bangor
Going to Timber kitchen and bar in Bangor is one experience you will always remember.
The Timber Kitchen and Bar is a fashionable casual restaurant with wooden accents and a gorgeous design.
It is situated at the center of Bangor inside a residence inn.
The restaurant serves hearty, delicious local food, and you’ll find it fascinating since the walls and ceilings are all constructed of unpolished wood.
Furthermore, the marble tabletops and the smooth wood floors combine to create an aesthetically pleasing and cozy environment.
You can choose from burgers, pizza, fish, cheeses, bread, and handmade pasta, among other popular items on their menu.
Their mussels might just be the first thing you should try; it is so tasty.
Other dishes are also available.
Although foods are prepared with locally sourced ingredients, artisan cheeses, and meats, you will love them.
Similarly, check out the drinks in their well-stocked bar as well; you’ll love the selection of wine and beer they have there.
Address: 22 Bass Park Blvd, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
4. University of Maine Museum of Art
Located in downtown Bangor, the University of Maine museum of art is one of the free places you can go in Bangor and have a great time.
This Museum of Art is still the only establishment with a permanent fine arts collection that is owned by the people of the State of Maine.
The University of Maine Museum of Art has been committed to fostering an appreciation for modern art among students and the public since 1946.
Similarly, over 3,800 pieces of 20th-century art, with a focus on photographs and original prints, are included in the museum’s permanent collection.
Andy Warhol, Andrew Wyeth, Richard Estes, Diego Rivera, and Pablo Picasso are just a few of the well-known painters whose works are on the show.
They have great local artists and likewise have some pieces by really famous artists, like Picasso and others.
Additionally, the museum conducts traveling exhibits and workshops, offers instructional materials to local schools, and arranges visits.
Admission is always free as it’s covered by philanthropic organizations, except if you want to make some donations.
Art lovers in Bangor would appreciate this fine place.
Address: 40 Harlow St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
5. Paul Bunyan Statue, Bangor
Here’s a fun place to snap some good pictures.
The status is based on the legends of the fabled folk hero known as Paul Bunyan.
According to legend, Paul Bunyan used his double-sided ax, his large blue ox, and a towering lumberjack to clear vast tracts of woodland to make room for crops and communities.
Bangor is one of just six American communities that claim Paul Bunyan and his tales as their own.
Bangor residents are reminded of their ties to this figure from American legend by a titan-sized statue in the city.
Although judging by the height of the Bryan statue there, Bangor may have a stronger claim and it is, of course, the largest statue of Paul in the world.
The statue, which is around 31 feet tall and weighs 3700 pounds, is made of fiberglass that is covered in metal.
You can find this magnificent monument at Bass Park.
The statue is one of the most popular attractions in Bangor, and you should check it out.
Address: 519 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
6. Stephen King House
Another picture-perfect place to visit in Bangor is Stephen king’s house. In fact, you will appreciate this more if you are a fan of Stephen King.
Stephen King, a writer of horror novels, was born in Maine, and many of his works are set there.
He resides in his native state, just outside of downtown Bangor, in a pretty unusual mansion despite his fame and wealth.
In fact, the house ranks right behind Graceland as one of the celebrity mansions in America that are most frequently shot from the street.
King, whose literature frequently depicts his native Maine in exquisite detail, moved into this property in 1980.
On Bangor’s loveliest historic block, where sawmill barons once resided during the height of the city’s logging industry, stands the 19th-century Victorian home.
It not only has the appearance of a traditional Gothic haunted home, but King also ringed the land with a spiky iron fence and a front entrance with a spiderweb and two iron bats.
Additionally, it is not concealed by the modest wrought-iron fence that encloses the property but rather is in plain view from the street.
If you come hoping to catch a peek of King, you won’t as he spends most of his time in his other homes.
Furthermore, he asked for Bangor’s approval in 2019 to convert the house from a residence into the official Stephen King Archive and a retreat for writers.
Address: 47 W Broadway, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
7. The Rock and Art Shop, Bangor
Stop by The Rock and Art Shop while in Bangor to pick up a nice memento that will remind you of Bangor.
This is such a delightful place to visit. In short, it is the perfect place to find unusual gifts.
With lots of rocks and fossils, it’s kind of like visiting a natural history museum, but most items are for sale.
A wide variety of crystals and rocks, bugs, books, jewelry, and numerous other items that can interest people of all ages are just a few of the things that are available here.
There are also air plants and other exquisitely unique works of art.
View the local artists’ creations that are featured in the store each month.
You will like your visit to this store because it is similar to going to a natural history museum with anthropological overtones.
Come for the local art exhibits and surprisingly informative merchandise displays, and stay to purchase succulents, pottery, gems, jewelry, and more.
You won’t be disappointed.
Don’t forget to pick up a gift from this tiny store for a loved one back home.
Address: 36 Central St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
8. Bangor waterfront pavilion
The majority of the major concerts in Bangor are hosted at the Bangor Waterfront.
This place is a great addition to the Bangor music scene.
The Bangor Waterfront Pavilion is a spotless, easily accessible, and well-kept area with a reliable security system.
There are chairs in the pavilion, but if you attend the majority of the concerts presented here, you probably won’t need them because you’ll be up dancing.
Dragon, Ed Sheeran, Kid Rock, and other notable artists have all performed here, and the list keeps going.
Address: Bangor, ME, United States
9. Bangor Historical Society and Thomas A. Hill House Museum
This location is great if you’d like to learn more about Bangor and its past.
The home where the museum is located is a private residence with a rich history.
Home to the Bangor Historical Society, the Thomas A. Hill House is the heart of the organization’s collection and certainly its largest object!
At 159 Union Street in Bangor is the Thomas A. Hill House, also once known as the Grand Army Memorial Home.
The mansion, designed by Richard Upjohn, was constructed in 1836.
It houses the collections of the Bangor Historical Society as well as an American Civil War collection.
Furthermore, two of Bangor’s mayors have lived at the mansion, which was converted into a museum in 1944.
There are numerous old clothes, shoes, books, decorations, pieces of furniture, paintings, photos, and more within.
In addition, there’s a cannon on the lawn.
The cannon (civil War Dahlgren 12 lb. boat artillery) on the lawn was manufactured in Chicopee, Massachusetts.
The guides are incredibly informed and happy to share all the specifics and insider information about these goods.
They also frequently host wine events here as well, and everything is kept up beautifully.
Days of visit to the museum are Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 am to 4 pm.
Address: 159 Union St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
10. 2 Feet Brewing
A nearby eatery called 2 Feet Brewing offers wonderful meals and recently brewed beer.
This little brewpub, which is a short stroll from downtown Bangor, is a fantastic find.
You can sample a variety of self-brewed beers as well as all the dishes they serve, which are all freshly prepared.
The staff are informed and helpful if you need to confirm anything or if you want to learn more about any type of beer.
Their desserts are phenomenal and out of this world. Even their artisan crafts and food are exceptional, and you won’t be disappointed.
Another reason to smile is the environment.
The area by the window is cluttered with bizarre games and bags.
Expect some noise on a Friday or Saturday night, all is good here.
Address: 80 Columbia St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
11. The Bangor Farmers Market
You can purchase goods and products produced locally at the Bangor Farmers Market.
Every Sunday from May through November, vendors congregate outside at the Bangor Farmers Market.
Vegetables are available for purchase from neighborhood farmers and producers.
Additionally, locally farmed meats, cheeses, bread, coffee, and baked products are offered.
Donuts, pastries, eggs, cheese, and other dairy products are also available.
You will find seasonal vegetables, greens, apples, berries, and meats, including cattle, hog, lamb, and chicken, locally roasted coffee, and flowers here as well.
The market is held in front of the library in Bangor. The market relocates to the Sea Dog Brewing Company during the winter.
You don’t even have to worry about cards or cash, as vendors in the market take cash, debit, or credit cards, and so on.
Address: 140 Harlow St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
Planning a road trip to other cities in Maine? Why not check out our list of the best things to do in York, Ogunquit, Kittery, and Kennebunkport?
12. Mount Hope Cemetery, Bangor
Designed by architect Charles G. Bryant in 1834, mount hope cemetery in Bangor is the second oldest garden cemetery in the United States.
This is a good place to pay homage to the dead and have some silent thoughts.
The cemetery was built by the Bangor Horticultural Society after it was designed.
The Bangor Horticultural Society tried to follow Mount Auburn’s example by designing a cemetery that would pay respect to both the dead and living, with trees, shrubs, plants, and ponds placed out to give a fitting, lovely, and peaceful spot for silent thought.
On the 264 acres of the cemetery, nearly 30,000 people are interred, including the well-known (like former vice president Hannibal Hamlin) and the notorious people as well.
In addition, Mount Hope is the final resting place for some of Bangor’s, the state’s, and even the country’s most renowned and infamous figures.
Similarly, it houses some of the oldest and greatest war memorials in the country.
The cemetery is open daily throughout the year, though hours vary by season.
Address: 1048 State St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
13. Penobscot River Walkway
Enjoy a peaceful and blissful evening with your family, friend, or dog on this trail.
A paved half-mile section of the Penobscot River near Bangor is known as the Penobscot River Walkway.
The trail is handicap accessible and open for walking, bicycling, fishing, and in-line skating.
The boardwalk is a portion of the Waterfront Park in Bangor.
Furthermore, the park has boat slips for water traffic, picnic tables, and restrooms.
It also hosts numerous occasions all year long, including summertime outdoor open-air concerts.
These concerts are free to attend, and you can enjoy yourself as much as possible.
Lastly, don’t miss the historic cannon scattered along the way.
Address: Front Street at Railroad Street, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
14. Bangor Mall
Here’s a mall in Bangor you would like, especially for the shopping buffs.
Even if you are not a shopping buff, you can come here to do some light shopping. Doesn’t hurt.
Bangor Mall is a regional, one-level, enclosed mall with a climate-controlled environment.
With more than 80 businesses, Bangor Mall is anchored by Macy’s, JCPenney, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Sears
You can also choose from a variety of restaurants at the mall. Ruby Tuesday’s, Bugaboo Creek, and Pizzeria UNO are examples of sit-down eateries.
Along with serving its own neighborhood, Bangor Mall also serves the adjacent towns of Penobscot, Piscataquis, Aroostook, and Hancock counties.
Popular names including Victoria’s Secret, Hollister, Bridal Shops, Dick’s Sporting Goods, JC Penny’s, and Sephora are among the many well-known names found there.
The Bangor Mall has everything you could possibly need.
The shops around here sell everything from jewelry to sporting goods to clothing for men, women, and children.
Similarly, it draws customers from Canada’s eastern regions.
In addition to some great restaurants to eat and drink, there are many spots to sit down and unwind in case you become exhausted from all the shopping.
Address: 663 Stillwater Ave, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
15. Maine Discovery Museum
Perhaps you are in Bangor with your kids. A great place to take them to is the Maine discovery museum.
This museum is the state’s largest children’s museum, so you know your children will have a blast.
The museum is spread over multiple floors and features many interesting items that kids would love.
Although it is not a costly museum in a large city, it offers local kids a fantastic experience.
In addition, the environment is highly open, and children are invited to explore, touch, play, and interact with everything.
The kids will have a terrific time here and be entertained for more than an hour.
Numerous exhibits are dispersed over its three floors, including a place where children can handle various objects.
You will also find a section entirely devoted to rivers and animals, and there is another one dedicated to children’s novels.
Additionally, there is a multi-story tree fort that children may climb and a continuously flowing river where they can splash around in boats.
If your children enjoy it, you can bring them back several times since the admission price is so reasonable.
Address: 74 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
16. Penobscot Theatre Company
Located in downtown Bangor, Penobscot Theatre Company is a professional non-profit theatre in Bangor.
The theatre operates in the old opera house and offers a variety of plays during the year.
In fact, it is the only year-round, professional theater group in the Northeast called Penobscot Theatre Company.
Penobscot Theatre Company offers a wide range of plays and is renowned for its storytelling and meticulous design.
In addition, to better capture each scene’s time period and emotion, the plays are presented with some incredible sets and costumes.
Dramatic Academy’s educational arm provides both children and adults with theatre arts programs.
Every season, dramatic Academy stages five youth productions, including two each in July and August.
You will love this place if you fancy performing arts and just arts in general.
Address: 131 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
17. Hannibal Hamlin Death Couch
What comes to your mind seeing a death couch? It’s not as bad as it sounds.
One of the attractions to see in Bangor while visiting is an Old Couch, which can be found at the Bangor Public Library.
Even though the couch might look inviting, sitting on it is not permitted. Instead, you are welcome to look through the book stacks that are kept on top.
If it’s a couch, then why Hannibal Hamlin right?
Hannibal Hamlin is the US vice president who served as President Abraham Lincoln’s vice president.
Hannibal was also the last person to use this couch, making it a revered object.
He has held many positions, including a senator from the United States, ambassador to Spain, congressman for the state of Maine, and governor of Maine for about a month.
One of the major things he accomplished while in office was to outlaw drinking on the legislative floor.
Furthermore, he returned to the legislative branch after his time as vice president and served there for two more terms before passing away.
Hamlin went back to his native Maine after retiring.
He passed out while playing cards at the Tarratine Club in Bangor on July 4, 1891, then later died on the couch that evening.
The couch is in the library’s lobby on the second floor, facing the reference desk.
Take a selfie with it if you can; it’s a sight to behold.
Address: Bangor, ME, United States
18. Orono Bog Boardwalk
The Orono Bog Boardwalk is a 4,200 feet long boardwalk open to public use.
The walk to the bog seems like any other trail in a neighborhood park, but once on the boardwalk, it’s like you are in the jungle. Then, once out of the woods, it opens up to this beautiful landscape.
The boardwalk allows people to closely observe a unique habitat without causing damage to the space
In short, this place is a great refuge for birdwatchers.
In addition, it is home to numerous bird species, including the white-breasted nuthatch, ospreys, and double-crested cormorants.
As you stroll along the mile-long boardwalk that winds through the bog, you will, among other things, encounter a wide variety of fascinating animals, plants, and birds.
There are many benches available to sit and take in the beautiful bog ecosystem, plus nice quality educational signage.
If this interests you, you can include that on your list of things to do in Bangor if you’re a bird enthusiast.
The boardwalk is open from May through to August, so you might want to time your visit.
19. Bangor City Forest
You should head down to Bangor City Forest if you’re looking for a spot to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and you don’t even need to drive far.
Bangor city forest is one of the best Bangor attractions you will love to explore during your visit to the region.
You can choose to walk or ride your bike through this peaceful setting.
There are many benches along the forest route where you may unwind and take in the scenery.
The five-mile East-West trail is a good option for riding a bike.
The main trail (numbered) is always great no matter the weather.
Do not forget to watch some roots and stumps from old trees.
Address: 54 Tripp Dr, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
20. Bangor State Fair
How about attending the largest fair in the entire state of Maine?
The Greater Bangor Area and the entire state of Maine come together for four days in Bass Park.
Since its founding in 1849, the Bangor State Fair has drawn between 40,000 and 50,000 visitors annually.
Furthermore, the Bangor State Fair lasts for ten days.
You will participate in enjoyable activities over the course of those ten days.
If you prefer family-friendly competitions to agricultural ones, consider attending the demolition derby or the lobster roll eating contest.
The fair is open from midday to 9 p.m. on weekends and weekdays, from 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Address: 515 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
21. Hudson Museum
Hudson museum is the place to go to see and behold historical artifacts in Bangor.
You can find a vast range of information here that covers historical objects and artifacts collected from cultures all around the world.
More than 2,000 Pre-Columbian ceramics and 900 Maine Indian artifacts are available in this attraction.
In addition, ceramics from the Northwest coast region, and pottery from other Native American cultures can all be found in the permanent exhibitions.
The museum occasionally hosts moving exhibits, talks, and field trips for primary and high school students.
From Monday through Saturday, you can visit the museum from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; admission is free.
Address: Bangor, ME, United States
22. Cascade Park
Going for a picnic in Bangor? Cascade park is a great location.
Cascade Park is arguably one of Bangor’s most well-known parks.
It provides an excellent setting for a picnic or family outing with a gazebo, walking pathways, picnic tables, and a drinking fountain.
The property also has a waterfall that is more than 20 feet high.
In addition, there are trails at the cascade park.
It takes more than 20 minutes to complete all of Cascade Park’s trails.
An enormous stone at the park serves as a memorial to someone.
It will take roughly two hours to stroll the park’s paths entirely because it is a rather sizable area of interest.
If you want to walk for exercise, walking the dogs, or just seeking a picturesque respite away from the daily grind of work, this area is generally clean, tranquil, and soothing.
As a bonus, parking is free.
Address: 600 State St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
23. Bangor Police Department Museum
Bangor police museum, also called the Museum of Law Enforcement, specializes in local and regional police history.
The museum located inside the Bangor police department offers a unique historical viewpoint on the development of American law enforcement.
It houses hundreds of genuine police artifacts.
Furthermore, some of these artifacts date back to the early 18th century, including badges, batons, cameras, newspaper clippings, and other items.
The “tramp chair,” a tool for public humiliation designed to punish or dissuade vagrants from committing crimes, is one of the exhibit’s most unusual relics.
Only a handful of chairs like this one are on display in the US; another one is housed in the Smithsonian. There were only about 13 of these chairs made.
There are also mannequins in authentic uniforms and a scrapbook of news items dating back to the early 1800s.
It is free for the public and opens only by appointment.
Address: 240 Main St, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
24. Brewer
If you enjoy drinking great beer, you might want to choose to make Brewer, a neighborhood in Bangor, your abode.
It’s no secret that the area’s excellent water supply is the reason why there are so many breweries here.
Visit the Bangor Beer Co. at the Brewer, where you can enjoy the newest brews with Asian fusion cuisine.
Also worth visiting are Mason’s Brewing Company, Geaghan Brothers Brewing Company, Orono Brewings downtown, and Sea Dog Brewing Co., one of the state’s pioneering brewers.
Just like the saying goes, “Drink because you are happy, but never because you are miserable.”.
So be sure to enjoy the best of your life/vacation while visiting any of these breweries. 🙂
25. Thomas Hill Standpipe, Bangor
One of the most exciting and interesting things to do in Bangor is to get a panoramic bird’s-eye view of Bangor.
Climb the Thomas Hill standpipe and stare down Bangor from the strategically placed Thomas Hill Standpoint.
The 1,750,000 US gallon capacity Thomas Hill Standpipe is a riveted wrought iron tank with a wood frame jacket that is situated on Thomas Hill in Bangor.
Furthermore, it is a prime historical location in Bangor and is the pinnacle of civil engineering prowess.
This historical location is recognized as an American Civil Engineering Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
The vista from the top is absolutely stunning, making it the ideal place to bring out your camera.
This unique landmark allows in-depth tours of its enormous precincts only four times a year.
Get a tour to the top and see amazing vistas of the Bangor area.
Address: 41 Thomas Hill Rd, Bangor, ME 04401, United States
Final Remarks
While the city is mostly associated with Stephen King, there are many other interesting things to do here.
From museums to restaurants to historic houses and parks, there’s a lot to do in Bangor. Make sure to have a good time.
Safe Travels!