Maine is known for its stunning natural beauty, from its rugged coastline to its pristine forests and mountains. However, the state also has some unique and offbeat attractions that are worth checking out. Here are a few examples:
The World’s Largest Rotating Globe
If you’re a geography buff or just love unusual sights, you won’t want to miss the DeLorme’s Atlas & Gazetteer in Yarmouth. This map company has created the world’s largest rotating globe, measuring an impressive 5.5 meters in diameter. It took more than two years to build the globe, which features detailed topographical data of the entire Earth. You can even control its rotation and zoom in on different regions using interactive touch screens.
The Desert of Maine
Maine may not be the first place you think of when it comes to deserts, but there is actually a small desert in Freeport. The Desert of Maine covers 40 acres and is believed to have formed over 10,000 years ago when a glacier melted and left behind a layer of silt and sand. Today, you can walk through the desert and learn about its history through exhibits and guided tours.
The Maine State Prison Showroom
This may not sound like a typical tourist attraction, but the Maine State Prison Showroom in Thomaston is actually a fascinating place to visit. It’s a showroom where inmates from the Maine State Prison create and sell handcrafted wooden items, such as furniture, cutting boards, and toys. The craftsmanship is top-notch, and you can even meet some of the inmates who work there and hear their stories.
The International Cryptozoology Museum
Cryptozoology is the study of creatures that are believed to exist but have not yet been proven, such as Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and the chupacabra. If you’re interested in this field, the International Cryptozoology Museum in Portland is a must-visit. It features exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays that explore the world of cryptids and their place in popular culture.
Paul Bunyan
Finally, if you’re driving through Bangor, you can’t miss the 31-foot-tall statue of Paul Bunyan and his blue ox, Babe. The statue was erected in 1959 as a tribute to the legendary lumberjack and has become a beloved landmark in the city. You can take photos with Paul and Babe and even get a guided tour of the nearby Maine Forest and Logging Museum.
Conclusion
Maine may not have the glitz and glamour of some other states, but it has plenty of hidden gems that are sure to delight and intrigue visitors. Whether you’re interested in maps, deserts, woodworking, cryptozoology, or folklore, there’s something for everyone in Maine’s offbeat attractions.