Bangor has plenty to do for both the nature enthusiast and those who would like to take a break from the great outdoors. Benny and I had a great time with all the things to do in Bangor, Maine.
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1. Take a picture with Paul Bunyan
Right on Main Street in front of the Cross Insurance Center, there’s a huge statue of Paul Bunyan. Donated in 1959, it’s a reminder to Bangor residents that that the city is where the lumber industry and Paul Bunyan’s life began. Bangor takes its claim as the birthplace of Mr. Bunyan so seriously that you can view his birth certificate at the city clerk’s office. Those who doubt Paul’s Maine roots probably come from Akeley, Minnesota, a town that also claims to be Paul Bunyan’s hometown.
As a New Englander, I have to side with Maine’s claim as being the legit one. (Sorry, Vikings…)
At 31 feet tall, and set upon a pedestal, Paul can be pretty imposing. Of course, he’s fine if you want to snap a photo with him, just don’t climb on him. I let Benny climb up just on the pedestal, because that was the only way he’d be able to take a picture with Paul. Can you see our tiny bear friend? You may have to zoom in.
For more information on the statue, check out Roadside America’s article.
2. Walk along the Penobscot River at the Bangor Waterfront
Another one of the things to do in Bangor is walk along the Penobscot River at the waterfront. There is a paved walkway that is about a mile in length, with a little less than half of that directly on the water as you see in the above picture.
If your trip to Maine is full of high adventure, outdoor activities (hiking and biking, etc.), then the Bangor Waterfront will be a welcome physical break while still being able to get outside.
For those of you who are always hungry (like me) you’ll have yet another reason to love this park: food trucks! In the above video, I said I would take a picture of them, and I did, but embarrassingly it wasn’t the best. But trust me, there are food trucks!
The Bangor Waterfront also has outdoor concerts. You can check out what’s going on at the park here.
If you like river walks, you may like our post on the Quequechan River Rail Trail.
3. Cascade Park
Like the Bangor Waterfront, Cascade Park is a nice place to relax and go for a very low-key stroll. It was built in 1938 as a WPA project. Back in the day, as in the late ’30s and ’40s, people loved to view the fountain, and at night visitors witnessed a lighted, color water show. The ’70s weren’t the best time for the park, and it wasn’t in the best condition, but thankfully it was restored in 1988. (Local Bangor historians, feel free to comment below if there’s something I either got wrong or should add).
We spent a bit of time walking near the waterfalls, and, of course, putting our feet in the water to cool off. Right near one of the falls, there’s a drop off of about 3 or 4 feet, so don’t go in that area unless you’re expecting to get wet. I almost went in that way on accident. Whoops.
For more information on Cascade Park, check out The Cultural Landscape’s Foundation site.
4. Take a picture in front of Stephen King’s house
Yes, that’s write (get it?). The famous horror writer has made Bangor his home. It’s in an older, well kept-up neighborhood. When we stopped in front of his house, there were also a few other people there taking photos.
Stay on the sidewalk. There’s a sign that says the house is under video surveillance, and the curtains are drawn.
Benny wanted to ring the doorbell and say “Trick or Treat,” but I can’t imagine how many other people do that.
Besides, King can’t concentrate on creating horror works of art if people keep knocking at his door, right?
5. Mount Hope Cemetery
Mount Hope Cemetery is a garden cemetery, and its layout is based on the Mount Auburn Cemetery in Massachusetts. Gravestones are placed seamlessly on hills, and a river peacefully meanders through the grounds.
The cemetery is the final resting place of Civil War generals, four Maine governors, ten congressmen, two ambassadors, a US senator, and a US vice president.
Stephen King fan? You’ll want to check out this place. His book Pet Sematary is based here.
For more information on the Mount Hope Cemetery, check out their site.
6. The Kenduskeag Stream Trail
This easily accessible trail runs along the Kenduskeag Stream for about two miles. The southern end of the stream will bring you downtown, while the northern end will bring you to a more secluded setting.
We began our walk at Gateway Park, which is the midpoint of the trail. We decided to walk north. This way, there are more rapids.
Suggestion: If we were to walk this trail again and head north, we would stop at Valley Road. After crossing, the path isn’t as well kept up and may not be as family-friendly.
7. The Cole Land Transportation Museum
The Cole Land Transportation Museum is dedicated to preserving Maine’s historic vehicles. They have quiet an impressive collection which includes firetrucks, snowplows, military trucks, farm equipment, motocycles, and train cars.
Other interesting exhibits include a model blacksmith shop and a recreation of a small town railroad station.
The transportation museum is family-friendly, and visitors of all ages will enjoy viewing the hundreds of vehicles that are on display. For more information, check out their website: The Cole Land Transportation Museum.
If you’re into vehicles, you may like our post on the The Newport Car Museum.
8. Hollywood Casino
Feeling lucky? Then you should head down to the Hollywood Casino. There are blackjack and poker tables, roulette wheels, and over 800 slot machines. If you’re hungry, you can head over to the buffet, a snack bar, or a pub-like restaurant.
Luckily, they didn’t deny Benny entry. He must look old for his age. Also, cameras aren’t allowed in the casino, which is why we don’t have any of our own pictures. There’s a slot machine we played called “Benny Big Game,” and let me tell you, that would have made a great photo. However, we understand and respect the need for security at a place like this.
Are you wondering how we did? Well, to be honest…we don’t gamble that much. We started with $10, got up to $22, and then lost it all all but 5 cents.
What do you think? Are we playing responsibly, or are we not playing at all?
For more information, check out the Hollywood Casino’s website.
9. Get a coffee at Tim Hortons
Did I catch you by surprise? Tim Hortons? In America? I know what you’re thinking, “Bob, this wasn’t supposed to be a post about Canada. I want to know about Bangor!”
There are a few Tim Horton locations in Maine. Yes, I know Tim Hortons is Canadian, but you see, as a Southern New Englander, I can’t simply walk into a Tim Hortons and order one of their coffees. Unfortunately, the chain never took off where I’m from. As far as chains go, I do believe that their coffee is one of the best.
I know some may think that’s treasonous thinking, but at least I’m honest…
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How about the logger statues at the library?
Next time we had to Bangor, I’ll check them out. Thanks for the tip!