Maine is a beautiful state that has a lot to offer, from stunning coastlines to picturesque towns. But what makes Maine unique is the abundance of roadside attractions that can be found all over the state. Here are some of the best roadside attractions in Maine that you won’t want to miss.
The Desert of Maine
Located in Freeport, Maine, the Desert of Maine is a natural wonder that will leave you in awe. The 40-acre desert was once a farm, but poor farming practices led to soil erosion that uncovered a layer of glacial silt, creating a desert-like landscape. Visitors can take a guided tour, go gemstone mining, or walk along the trails to explore the area.
The World’s Largest Telephone
In Bryant Pond, Maine, you can find the world’s largest telephone. The giant phone stands at 14 feet tall and is 8 feet wide. It was built in the 1940s by a local telephone company and was used to promote their services in parades. Today, visitors can walk inside to see how it would have looked when it was in use.
Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox
One of the most iconic roadside attractions in Maine is Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox. Standing at 31 feet tall, Paul Bunyan towers over visitors while Babe the Blue Ox stands at 18 feet tall. The statue is located in Bangor, Maine, and was built in the 1950s to honor Maine’s lumbering heritage.
Moxie Museum
Moxie is a carbonated soft drink that originated in Maine in the late 1800s. It has a unique taste that is loved by many Mainers. The Moxie Museum, located in Lisbon Falls, Maine, is dedicated to all things Moxie. Visitors can learn about the history of the drink, see vintage Moxie advertisements, and taste the drink for themselves.
Stephen King’s House
Stephen King is one of Maine’s most notable residents. The world-renowned horror author lives in Bangor, Maine, and his house has become a popular attraction for fans of his work. Visitors can drive by the house to get a glimpse of where he lives and where many of his stories are set.
The Big Chicken Barn
The Big Chicken Barn in Ellsworth, Maine, is an antique store that is anything but ordinary. The store is housed in a 14,000 square foot barn and has a collection of antiques, books, and vintage items that will leave you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time.
Lenny the Chocolate Moose
Lenny the Chocolate Moose is a 1,700-pound moose statue made entirely out of chocolate. The statue is located at Len Libby Chocolates in Scarborough, Maine and was created in 1997 to celebrate the store’s 80th anniversary. Visitors can take a tour of the chocolate factory and see Lenny up close.
The Cryptozoology Museum
If you’re interested in all things strange and mysterious, then the International Cryptozoology Museum in Portland, Maine is a must-visit. The museum is dedicated to the study of hidden and unknown animals, such as Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, and the Chupacabra. The museum has over 10,000 pieces of evidence and artifacts on display.
The L.L. Bean Flagship Store
No visit to Maine is complete without a trip to the L.L. Bean flagship store in Freeport, Maine. The store is open 24 hours a day and has everything from outdoor gear to home furnishings. Visitors can take a free tour of the store and even take part in outdoor activities such as archery and fly casting.
Conclusion
These are just some of the many roadside attractions that can be found in Maine. From the natural wonders of the Desert of Maine to the strange and mysterious animals at the Cryptozoology Museum, Maine has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these attractions are a must-see on any trip to the Pine Tree State.