Once considered the “Lumber Capital of the World”, Bangor is an attractive city on the banks of Penobscot River. It’s home to fascinating museums and historic architecture dating back to its boom forestry years and is within easy access to the Penobscot Indian Island Reservation.
Things to do in Bangor
The main street of Bangor is dominated by a nine-metre-tall statue of folkloric lumberjack Paul Bunyan, which reflects the town’s proud forestry heritage. Victorian-style architecture dating to that period in the 19th century is still visible in the West Market Square Historic District.
A short drive north of Bangor along Penobscot River is the Maine Forest and Logging Museum, which offers an intriguing look at the region’s forestry history. Wander amidst the reconstructed logging community, which includes the 18th-century Leonard’s Mill and a blacksmith’s shop and smokehouse, then see traditional crafts being demonstrated by staff in period costumes.
Interested in the region’s Native American culture? Continue north to the Penobscot Indian Island Reservation, which lies in the middle of the river near the small city of Old Town. Visit the on-site museum, which exhibits authentic artefacts belonging to the tribe and explains the Penobscot’s customs and traditions.
Experience one of Bangor’s working forests along the hiking, cycling and cross-country skiing trails that traverse Bangor City Forest. Follow the elevated Orono Bog Boardwalk while keeping an eye out for beavers, white-tailed deer and elusive black bears.
Getting around Bangor
Bangor International Airport is located 10 minutes’ drive from the city centre, which is around two hours’ drive from Portland. Bangor is an easy city to explore on foot or by bicycle, but having your own vehicle is best for accessing the surrounding sights.