Rockland Travel Guide

Rockland is a beautiful coastal town located in Maine, USA. Read on to discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Rockland

Rockland is a coastal town located in Knox County, in Mid Coast, Maine, in New England, in the United States of America, in North America. It is known for its breathtaking views, vibrant cultural scene, and delicious seafood.

List of Places to Visit in Rockland

Here are some of the must-visit places in Rockland:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Maine Lighthouse Museum
  2. Farnsworth Art Museum
  3. Maine Maritime Museum
  4. Owls Head Transportation Museum

Natural Attractions of Rockland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse
  2. Owls Head State Park
  3. Rockland Harbor Trail
  4. Birch Point Beach State Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rockland

Rockland has plenty of hiking and biking trails that offer breathtaking views of the coast and surrounding areas. Some popular routes are:

  1. Georges Highland Path
  2. Camden Hills State Park
  3. Thomaston Town Forest
  4. Owls Head Mountain Trail

Best Things to Do in Rockland: Activities and Tours

  1. Sail on a Schooner: Take a sunset sail or a lobster lunch sail for a unique experience.
  2. Explore the Islands: Rent a kayak or a paddleboard and explore the surrounding islands.
  3. Taste the Seafood: Visit one of the many seafood restaurants and try some of the local specialities.
  4. Visit a Winery: Take a tour of one of the local wineries and taste some of their unique wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rockland

Here is a week-long itinerary for a trip to Rockland:

Day Activity
1 Visit Maine Lighthouse Museum and Owls Head State Park
2 Take a sail on a schooner and have lunch at a seafood restaurant
3 Explore the Islans and visit a local winery
4 Visit Farnsworth Art Museum and take a hike in Camden Hills State Park
5 Take a Rockland Harbor Trail and visit the Maine Maritime Museum
6 Relax at Birch Point Beach State Park
7 Take an Owls Head Mountain Trail Hike and have dinner at a seafood restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Rockland

Rockland is known for its delicious seafood dishes, especially lobster and clams. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Lobster Roll: A New England classic, try it with melted butter or mayo.
  2. Clam Chowder: Creamy and comforting, it’s a perfect dish for cold days.
  3. Fried Clams: Crispy and crunchy, it is a must-try dish for seafood lovers.

Local Beverages

  1. Maine Beer Company: Try their Lunch or Dinner IPA for a unique taste.
  2. Allagash Brewing Company: Famous for their Belgian-style beers, try their White or Saison.
  3. Cellardoor Winery: Take a tour and taste some of their unique wines.

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

Rockland has a variety of options for all types of travelers. Here are some of the popular options:

  1. 250 Main Hotel: A chic hotel with a rooftop bar and amazing views.
  2. LimeRock Inn: A cozy inn with fireplaces and stylish rooms.
  3. The Lindsey Hotel: A boutique hotel with a spa and a great location in the city center.
  4. Captain Lindsey House Inn: A classic New England house with a picturesque garden.

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

Rockland offers a variety of souvenirs and local products that make for great gifts. Here are some of the popular options:

  1. Lobster Everything: From keychains to socks, there are plenty of lobster-themed souvenirs.
  2. Sea Salt: Maine is known for its gourmet sea salt, perfect for cooking or as a gift.
  3. Locally Made Art: Visit the Farnsworth Art Museum gift shop for some original artwork.

Local Culture and Customs of Rockland

Mainers are known for their laid-back attitude and friendly demeanor. Locals take pride in their seafood, particularly lobster, and enjoy spending time outdoors.

Best Time to Visit Rockland

The best time to visit Rockland is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. The lobster festival, held in August, is a popular event that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rockland

Do:

  1. Try the seafood and lobster dishes.
  2. Visit the local wineries and breweries.
  3. Explore the outdoors and take a scenic hike.
  4. Take a sailing tour and enjoy the views.

Don’t:

  1. Ignore the waterfront views.
  2. Overlook the cultural attractions.
  3. Be rude to the locals, they are friendly and welcoming.
  4. Forget to visit the nearby islands and beaches.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rockland

Rockland is a relatively safe town. However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when walking alone, especially at night.

Health in Rockland

Rockland has medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics, for any health needs.

Getting to Rockland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Rockland

  1. Knox County Regional Airport (RKD)
  2. Portland International Jetport (PWM)

Bus Stations Near Rockland

  1. Concord Coach Lines
  2. Greyhound

Other Options

  1. Taxis and Ride Share Services
  2. Car Rentals

How to Get Around in Rockland

Rockland is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car or hiring a taxi is recommended.

Where to Go Next from Rockland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can take from Rockland:

  1. Camden: A picturesque town with great restaurants and outdoor activities.
  2. Boothbay Harbor: A quaint coastal town with plenty of shopping options.
  3. Acadia National Park: A national park with hiking trails, scenic drives, and breathtaking views.
  4. Bar Harbor: A seaside town with plenty of outdoor activities and seafood options.

Conclusion

Rockland is a beautiful coastal town that offers visitors the chance to experience local culture, enjoy the great outdoors, taste delicious seafood and local beer, and relax in charming hotels or guesthouses. Whether you are interested in outdoor adventures or cultural attractions, Rockland has something for everyone.

Downtown view of Rockland Maine Downtown view of Rockland Maine