Fryeburg Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see, do, eat, and experience in Fryeburg, Maine with this comprehensive tour guide. Plan your trip with our travel tips, must-visit destinations, and local recommendations.


Welcome to Fryeburg, a quintessential New England town in Maine’s Lakes and Mountains region. With stunning natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage, Fryeburg offers a perfect combination of outdoor adventure, history, and small-town charm. This comprehensive tour guide will help you make the most of your trip to Fryeburg with insider tips on the best places to visit, things to do, eat, and experience.

Introduction to Fryeburg

Located in the western part of Maine, Fryeburg is a quaint town with a population of around 3,500 people. The town has a long and fascinating history, dating back to the colonial era. Fryeburg is named after one of its earliest settlers, Joseph Frye, who arrived in the area in 1763. Over the years, the town has grown and prospered, thanks to its natural resources, such as timber and fertile soil.

Today, Fryeburg is a popular tourist destination, especially during the fall foliage season when the leaves turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, from hiking and biking in the nearby White Mountains to exploring the town’s charming downtown area.

List of Places to Visit in Fryeburg

  • Frost Gully Woods
  • Hemlock Bridge
  • Fryeburg Fair
  • Saco River Wildlife Center

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Fryeburg has a rich cultural heritage, and there are many museums and historical places that visitors can explore to learn more about the town’s past. Some of the top attractions include:

Fryeburg Historical Society

The Fryeburg Historical Society is a non-profit organization that works to preserve and promote the town’s history. Its headquarters is the Colonel Samuel Osgood House, a beautiful colonial-era building that has been restored to its original glory. The museum contains a collection of over 10,000 artifacts, including military memorabilia, tools, furniture, and clothing.

Sherman Farm

Sherman Farm is a quintessential New England farm that has been in operation since the 18th century. Visitors can tour the farm and see how it operates, from milking cows to growing crops. There is also a farm store that sells fresh produce, homemade ice cream, and other farm products.

Natural Attractions of Fryeburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Fryeburg is surrounded by natural beauty, and visitors can explore the great outdoors to their heart’s content. Some of the top natural attractions in the area include:

White Mountain National Forest

The White Mountain National Forest is a vast wilderness area that encompasses over 750,000 acres of land in New Hampshire and Maine. Visitors can explore the forest on foot, by bike, or even by car on the scenic Kancamagus Highway. Some of the top attractions in the forest include Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast, and the Flume Gorge, a stunning natural chasm.

Kezar Lake

Kezar Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake that is over nine miles long and one mile wide. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, and it offers a variety of activities, such as fishing, boating, and swimming. Visitors can also take a scenic drive around the lake.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fryeburg

The Lakes and Mountains region of Maine is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, and Fryeburg is no exception. Some of the top hiking and biking trails in the area include:

Mount Chocorua

Mount Chocorua is a popular hiking destination that offers sweeping views of the White Mountains. The summit is a challenging three-mile hike, but the views are well worth the effort.

Saco River Trail

The Saco River Trail is a scenic bike path that follows the river for over three miles. The trail is mostly flat and offers stunning views of the river and surrounding wilderness.

Best Things to Do in Fryeburg: Activities and Tours

Fryeburg offers plenty of activities and tours that cater to a wide range of interests. Some of the top things to do in Fryeburg include:

Fryeburg Fair

The Fryeburg Fair is an annual event that takes place in late September. It is one of the largest agricultural fairs in the Northeast and features a wide range of activities, such as livestock shows, live music, and carnival rides.

Snowmobile Tours

During the winter months, visitors can take a guided snowmobile tour of the area’s scenic trails. The tours offer a fun way to explore the snow-covered landscape and see some of the area’s most beautiful sights.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fryeburg

Day 1: Visit the Fryeburg Historical Society and learn about the town’s history at the Colonel Samuel Osgood House.

Day 2: Take a scenic drive around Kezar Lake and stop at the Kezar Lake Marina for a boat rental.

Day 3: Explore the White Mountain National Forest and hike up Mount Chocorua for panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Day 4: Relax and enjoy a picnic lunch at Hemlock Bridge.

Day 5: Take a snowmobile tour of the area’s scenic trails or go horseback riding with Riverview Farm.

Day 6: Visit the Saco River Wildlife Center and learn about the local wildlife.

Day 7: Attend the Fryeburg Fair and experience a traditional New England agricultural fair.

Food and Drink Scene of Fryeburg

Fryeburg has a vibrant food and drink scene that offers a taste of New England’s culinary traditions. Some of the top dishes and beverages to try include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Rolls
  • Blueberry Pancakes
  • Clam Chowder

Local Beverages

  • Maine Beer
  • Coffee By Design
  • Allen’s Coffee Brandy

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

Fryeburg offers a wide variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. Some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in the area include:

Oxford House Inn

The Oxford House Inn is a charming New England inn that features comfortable rooms and excellent food. The inn also has a restaurant that serves creative dishes made from local ingredients.

The Admiral Peary Inn

The Admiral Peary Inn is a cozy bed and breakfast that offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains. The rooms are beautifully decorated and feature modern amenities.

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

Fryeburg offers a variety of souvenirs and local products that make perfect gifts for friends and family back home. Some of the top items to buy include:

Maine Blueberry Jam

Maine is famous for its blueberries, and Fryeburg is no exception. Visitors can buy jars of locally made blueberry jam to take home.

Fryeburg Fair Memorabilia

The Fryeburg Fair offers a wide range of memorabilia, such as t-shirts, hats, and other souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Fryeburg

Fryeburg is a close-knit community that values its heritage and traditions. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and take the time to learn about the town’s history and culture.

Best Time to Visit Fryeburg

The best time to visit Fryeburg is in the fall, when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow. The winter months offer opportunities for winter sports, such as skiing and snowmobiling, while the summer months are ideal for outdoor adventures like hiking and kayaking.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fryeburg

Do:

  • Take the time to explore the area’s natural beauty on foot or by bike.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages, especially lobster rolls and blueberry pancakes.
  • Attend the Fryeburg Fair and experience a traditional New England agricultural fair.

Don’t:

  • Ignore the town’s historical sites and museums.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Be disrespectful of the local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Fryeburg

Fryeburg is a safe town, but visitors should take basic precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and locking their cars and homes. The natural environment can also pose risks, such as ticks and poison ivy, so visitors should take precautions when hiking or exploring the great outdoors.

Health in Fryeburg

Fryeburg has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics in the area. Visitors should carry adequate health insurance and take steps to protect themselves from health hazards, such as ticks and other insects.

Getting to Fryeburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Fryeburg

The nearest major airport is Portland International Airport (PWM), which is about a two-hour drive from Fryeburg.

Bus Stations Near Fryeburg

Concord Coach Lines operates a bus service from Boston to Fryeburg, with stops in several towns along the way.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Fryeburg, either on their own or by renting a car.

How to Get Around in Fryeburg

Fryeburg is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. There are also several car rental companies in the area for those who prefer to drive.

Where to Go Next from Fryeburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Fryeburg is located in the heart of New England, and there are many nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore. Some of the top options include:

North Conway

North Conway is a charming New England town in New Hampshire that offers excellent shopping, dining, and outdoor activities.

Portland

Portland is Maine’s largest city and boasts a thriving arts and culture scene, as well as a picturesque waterfront.

Conclusion

Fryeburg is a hidden gem in the heart of New England, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and small-town charm. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures or cultural attractions, Fryeburg has something for everyone. This comprehensive tour guide will help you plan your next visit to Fryeburg with insider tips on the best places to visit, things to do, eat, and experience.