Summer in Freeport, Maine, is an experience unlike any other. This charming coastal town is known for its natural beauty, outdoor adventures, cultural activities, and delicious dining options. As an inn located in the heart of Freeport, we at Brewster House are thrilled to share our top recommendations for things to do in summer near Freeport, ME.
Experiencing Outdoor Activities
Freeport is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. With its gorgeous landscapes, hiking trails, plentiful wildlife, and water activities, you’ll always have things to do.
Hiking
Wolfe’s Neck State Park is a great place to start, where you can enjoy scenic hikes and bike rides. The park features 244 acres of forested headlands, salt marsh, and rocky coastline, with five miles of trails that wind through the woods and along the shore. Additionally, a saltwater farm offers educational programs and farm tours.
More hiking trails near Freeport.
- Quarry Woods Loop: An easy mile loop that takes about 20 minutes to complete.
- Mill Stream Trail Loop: An easy ¾-mile loop that takes about 15 minutes to complete.
- Hedgehog Mountain: An easy 3-mile loop that generally takes a little over an hour to complete.
- Freeport Conservation Trust Trail Network: The FCI provides several public trails in their effort to preserve and protect natural areas around Freeport, ME.
Mountain Biking
If you’re looking for a more adrenaline-pumping activity, head over to Bradbury Mountain State Park for a challenging hike or mountain biking experience. With over 800 acres of forests and trails, this park is perfect for adventurers of all skill levels. The park features several trails that lead to the summit of Bradbury Mountain, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The park also has campsites, picnic areas, and a playground, making it a great place for families.
More biking trails near Freeport:
Birding
Embark on a journey of patience and plumage in the wilderness of Maine! The ease of becoming mesmerized by the vibrant chorus of warblers, majestic raptors soaring across the sky, and rare species like the Atlantic puffin is enticing enough to attract birding experts and hobbyists alike. With its diverse ecosystems, including marshes, forests, and coastal regions, Maine is a haven for bird enthusiasts. Begin your birding journey at the 140-acre Mast Landing Audubon Sanctuary, where you have the opportunity to spot nearly 180 species of birds!
Kayaking & SUP
Maine’s pristine waters offer exceptional kayaking and paddle-boarding opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Glide along the rocky coastline, exploring hidden coves, rugged cliffs, and picturesque islands. Start by renting a kayak or paddle board or taking a guided tour at LL Bean’s Outdoor Discovery School. Paddle along Casco Bay, float down a local river, or venture through one of Maine’s many state parks.
More opportunities to paddle:
Explore Iconic Lighthouses of Maine
Maine’s coastline is dotted with charming lighthouses that glimpse the state’s maritime history. We have five within an hour from our inn and make a fun day trip visiting these iconic lights. Our Lighthouse Tour Special offers a two-night stay in a queen room, a lighthouse-themed welcome basket, a $50 gift card to our favorite restaurant, Tuscan Bistro, and a $50 gas card to help cover transportation expenses on your self-guided tour.
The Portland Head Light, located just down the coast from our inn, is a must-see. This iconic lighthouse has been guiding ships since 1791 and is now a popular tourist destination. The light is situated on a rocky headland in Fort Williams Park, which offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and Casco Bay. The park has several hiking trails, picnic areas, and a beach, making it a great place to spend a summer day.
Another nearby lighthouse is the Cape Elizabeth Light, also known as Two Lights. This historic lighthouse has been in operation since 1828. The most dramatic lifesaving effort was made by light keeper Marcus Hanna in the late 1800s. He received a gold lifesaving medal for “heroism involving great peril to his life.” However, the rocky outcropping with sweeping views of the bay and Lobster Shack are the biggest attraction here.
More Maine lighthouses to explore:
Engage in Arts and Culture
Maine has a thriving arts and culture scene, and Freeport is no exception. The Freeport Historical Society offers visitors a chance to explore 300 years’ worth of the town’s rich history through its museum and walking tours. The museum features exhibits on the town’s early settlement, the industrial revolution, and the impact of tourism on the area. The walking tours take visitors through the historic district to see some of the town’s most beautiful homes and landmarks.
For a truly unique experience, check out the Maine Maritime Museum. Located in nearby Bath, this museum celebrates Maine’s maritime history through interactive exhibits, boat tours, and workshops. The museum is housed in a historic shipyard and features exhibits on lobster fishing, shipbuilding, and other aspects of Maine’s seafaring culture.
There’s a variety of artistic and cultural attractions to choose from:
Shopping
Are you ready for some retail therapy? A shopping mecca is within a few blocks from our inn, including Freeport Maine’s outlet and LL Bean’s five stores (including their flagship store).
But the shopping doesn’t stop there. We also have so many unique shops where you’ll find one-of-a-kind items that will make great gifts or fantastic treasures to remind you of your Maine getaway. Here are some of our favorites (we’ve only named a few because the list is so long).
- Palmer & Company: Anything from home goods to party and gift items to bath and body, and more.
- Abacus: Think calendars and perennial prints.
- Sea Love: A candlemaking retail experience for home fragrances and lifestyle accents.
- Rustic Arrow: A locally owned and operated lifestyle boutique.
- Haberdashery Portland: Resale clothing sustainable brands, vintage, and more.
- R.D. Allen Freeport Jewelers: Beautiful jewelry featuring Maine tourmalines.
- Georgetown Pottery: Unique hand-made items.
- Freeport Antique Heirlooms: It’s their tagline — “In with the old, coordinate with the new.”
Eating and Drinking
Finally, no trip to Freeport is complete without indulging in some of the area’s fantastic cuisine. Maine is famous for its seafood, and you can find some of the best lobster rolls, clam chowder, and oysters in the state at local restaurants like Harraseeket Lunch & Lobster and Cindy’s Lobster Rolls.
But Maine’s culinary scene extends far beyond seafood. Visit the Maine Beer Company for some delicious craft beers, or head to Bow Street Market for locally-sourced produce and gourmet goodies. Remember to visit Wilbur’s of Maine for some of the best chocolate in the state. Two others are among our favorites: Mast Landing Brewery, with its expansive bar and great outdoor seating area, and GoofireGoodfire Tasting Room & Kitchen, which started as a hobby but has turned into a “monster obsession.”
We have so many local restaurants that create delicious meals. The hard part will be choosing your favorites.
- Tuscan Brick Oven Bistro
- Gritty McDuff’s Brew Pub
- Antonia’s Pizzeria
- Buck’s Naked BBQ
- Jameson Tavern
Enjoy Your Stay
Last but certainly not least is the best choice for a place to stay on your Maine getaway — The Brewster House. With so many things to do near Freeport, ME, we can be the hub for your explorations. We offer comfort and elegance in all our rooms — from the first floor to the third floor. Indulge in luxury amenities with a full, hot breakfast each morning.
The most thrilling of the state’s outdoor activities, cultural offerings, and culinary scene can be found at the end of a short drive, scenic bike ride, or refreshing walk. At Brewster House, we are proud to be part of this vibrant community and are thrilled to share the best of what this town has to offer with our esteemed guests. Come and book a luxurious and rejuvenating stay with us, where you can indulge in the comforts of our cozy inn and be just down the road from all the adventure our town has to offer.
