Orland Travel Guide (Hancock County/Down East/Maine/New England/United States of America/North America)

Introduction to Orland

Orland is a charming town located in Hancock County in Down East Maine, United States of America. Orland is located in a scenic area of Maine, surrounded by forests, mountains, and lakes. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to enjoy the great outdoors and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Orland

Orland may be a small town, but there are plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors entertained. Here’s a list of the top places to visit in Orland:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

The Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory: This impressive bridge spans the Penobscot River and features an observation deck offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
The Wilson Museum: This museum features exhibits on the history of Maine, with a focus on the region surrounding Orland.
The Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust: This conservation area is a popular spot for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing.

Natural Attractions of Orland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Alamoosook Lake: This lovely lake is a popular spot for fishing and boating.
Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park: This park features miles of hiking trails and stunning coastal views.
Patten Pond: This peaceful lake is a great spot for swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Orland

Orland is home to several popular hiking and biking trails, offering visitors the chance to explore the stunning natural beauty of the area. Here are a few of the best routes:

The Great Pond Mountain trail system: This trail system features a variety of routes to suit all levels of hikers and bikers.
Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park: This park has several trails running through the beautiful coastal landscape.

Best Things to Do in Orland: Activities and Tours

Orland is packed with exciting activities and tours for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Orland:

Acadian Boat Tours: This tour company offers cruises along the coast of Maine, allowing visitors to explore the stunning scenery and wildlife of the area.
Maine Kayak: This company offers guided kayak tours of the Penobscot River and other scenic areas around Orland.
Great Pond Mountain Conservation Trust: The GPMCT offers a variety of events and workshops on topics like birdwatching, tracking, and nature photography.

Week-Long Itinerary for Orland

Here’s an example of a week-long itinerary for visitors to Orland:

Day	Activity
Day 1	Visit the Penobscot Narrows Bridge and Observatory.
Day 2	Hike the Great Pond Mountain trail system.
Day 3	Take a kayak tour with Maine Kayak.
Day 4	Visit the Wilson Museum.
Day 5	Spend the day fishing on Alamoosook Lake.
Day 6	Take a cruise with Acadian Boat Tours.
Day 7	Explore Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Orland

No trip to Orland is complete without sampling some of the local food and drink. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Blueberry pie: Maine is famous for its blueberries, and Orland is no exception. Be sure to sample some delicious blueberry pie while you’re here.
Lobster: Maine is known for its lobster, and there are plenty of places to enjoy this seafood delicacy in Orland.

Local Beverages

Maine beer: Maine has a thriving craft beer scene, with many local breweries producing top-quality brews.
Blueberry soda: This refreshing drink is made with fresh Maine blueberries and is a must-try for visitors to Orland.

Where to Stay in Orland: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Orland has plenty of options when it comes to accommodation. Here are some of the top places to stay in Orland:

Alamoosook Lakeside Inn: This charming inn is located on the shores of Alamoosook Lake and offers comfortable rooms and scenic views.
The Orland House B&B: This historic bed and breakfast features beautifully decorated rooms and a lovely garden.
Holbrook Island Sanctuary State Park campground: This campground is located within the state park and offers stunning views and easy access to hiking trails.

What to Buy in Orland: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Orland is home to several local shops and markets where you can find unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best places to shop in Orland:

Gray Duck Gallery and Studio: This gallery features works by local artists and artisans, including pottery, jewelry, and paintings.
Simon in the Mountains: This shop sells a variety of handmade items, including soaps, candles, and knitted goods.

Local Culture and Customs of Orland

Orland is a friendly and welcoming community, and visitors are sure to feel at home here. One of the most important cultural customs in Orland is respect for the natural environment. Visitors are encouraged to take care when exploring the outdoors and to leave no trace behind.

Best Time to Visit Orland

The best time to visit Orland is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny and outdoor activities are in full swing. However, fall is also a beautiful time to visit, with stunning foliage and harvest festivals to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Orland

Do:

Take advantage of the many opportunities to explore the great outdoors in Orland.
Sample some of the delicious local food and drink, especially lobster and blueberry pie.
Support local businesses by shopping at local markets and stores.

Don’t:

Litter or damage the natural environment.
Ignore local customs and traditions.
Forget to pack appropriate outdoor gear for hiking, biking, and kayaking.

Safety and Health

Safety in Orland

Orland is a safe community, but visitors should take common-sense precautions to stay safe, such as locking their vehicles and keeping valuables out of sight. Visitors should also take care when exploring the outdoors, and be aware of any potential hazards like ticks, poison ivy, and wildlife.

Health in Orland

Visitors to Orland should be aware of the risks associated with tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease. It’s important to wear protective clothing and use insect repellent when spending time outdoors.

Getting to Orland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Orland is located in rural Maine, but there are several options for getting here. Here’s a rundown of the transportation options:

Airports Near Orland

The closest major airport to Orland is Bangor International Airport, which is located about 30 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Orland

Greyhound offers bus service to Bangor, Maine, which is located about 30 miles away from Orland.

Other Options

Driving is the most practical way to get to Orland, as the town is located in a rural area with limited public transportation options.

How to Get Around in Orland

The best way to get around Orland is by car. There are several rental car agencies at the Bangor airport, and many visitors choose to rent a car in order to explore the surrounding area.

Where to Go Next from Orland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Orland is located in an area of Maine that is known for its stunning natural beauty and fascinating history. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

Acadia National Park: This iconic national park is located about an hour’s drive from Orland and offers breathtaking scenery and a wealth of outdoor activities.
Bar Harbor: This charming coastal town is located near Acadia National Park and is known for its quaint shops, restaurants, and scenic harbor.
Blue Hill: This lovely town is located just a short drive from Orland and features a variety of art galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Conclusion

Orland is a hidden gem in rural Maine, offering visitors the chance to explore stunning natural scenery and immerse themselves in local history and culture. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, small-town charm, or delicious seafood, Orland has something to offer. Use this guide to plan your perfect trip to Orland and discover all that this lovely town has to offer.