Union Travel Guide

Discover Union in Maine, a scenic town filled with outdoor adventures, museums and historical places, and a vibrant food culture.


Introduction to Union

Union is a picturesque town located in Knox County, in Mid Coast Maine, United States of America. It is a quiet destination that is known for its beautiful landscapes, fresh seafood, and laid-back lifestyle. The town is a popular tourist destination, with plenty of things to do and see. In this travel guide, we will explore the top attractions in Union and give you a week-long itinerary to make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Union

Union is a town filled with natural beauty, history, and culture. Here are our top picks of places to visit.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Union Historical Society Museum: This museum is the perfect place to start your journey in Union. The museum features exhibits on local history, including the town’s early settlers and industries. It is open from May to October.

  • Vose Library: Originally built in 1912, the Vose Library is a historic landmark that has been restored to its early 20th-century glory. It features a significant collection of books, including Maine authors and history. The library organizes frequent events like author talks, art exhibits, and literary festivals throughout the year.

  • Olde Union House Antiques: Located in a historic house, this antique store features a wide variety of vintage furniture, jewelry, and collectibles.

Natural Attractions of Union: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Crawford Pond: This crystal clear pond offers swimming, kayaking, and fishing opportunities in the summer. In the winter, it is a popular spot for ice fishing.

  • Seven Tree Pond: This serene and peaceful pond offers beautiful views of nature and is perfect for kayaking and fishing.

  • Medomak Valley Land Trust: This land trust is home to many different hiking trails and wildlife habitats. Hikers can explore the beautiful scenery and woodlands while learning about the local flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Union

Union has a variety of hiking and biking trails. Some of the popular ones include:

  • Crawford Pond Trail: This trail is perfect for hiking and biking, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

  • Medomak Valley Land Trust Trails: There are several hiking trails within the land trust, and they vary in length and difficulty level. Some of the popular ones include the Little River Preserve Trail, Whitten Hill Preserve Trail, and Wotton’s Mill Trail.

Best Things to Do in Union: Activities and Tours

  • Maine Coast Kayak Tours: This tour company offers guided kayaking tours of the Union River, where visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife.

  • Union Fairgrounds: This is the home of the Union Agricultural Fair, one of the oldest country fairs in Maine. The fair is held in August every year and features live music, food, and local crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Union

Day 1: Visit the Union Historical Society Museum, Vose Library, and Olde Union House Antiques. Day 2: Go for a hike or bike ride on the Crawford Pond trail. Day 3: Visit Crawford Pond and go kayaking or fishing. Day 4: Explore Seven Tree Pond, go kayaking/fishing, and have a picnic near the water. Day 5: Go for a hike in the Medomak Valley Land Trust. Day 6: Join a guided kayak tour of the Union River. Day 7: Visit Union fairgrounds and enjoy local food and crafts at the Union Agricultural Fair.

Food and Drink Scene of Union

Union has a vibrant food culture that is centered around fresh seafood and local ingredients.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Rolls: You can find this classic Maine dish at several local restaurants, including Morse’s Sauerkraut and Herring.

  • Fried Clams: This seafood dish is a local favorite and can be found at many restaurants, including Miranda’s Restaurant and the Lobster Pound Restaurant.

Local Beverages

  • Maine Beer Company: This brewery is known for its award-winning craft beers, including Lunch and Dinner.

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

Union has several options for accommodation, including:

  • Samoset Resort: This luxurious resort is located on the coast and features stunning views of the ocean. It has several restaurants, golf courses, and a spa.

  • Blueberry Fields Bed and Breakfast: This rustic bed and breakfast is located in a quiet setting and features comfortable rooms and homemade breakfast.

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

  • Maine-made crafts and souvenirs: You can find locally-made gifts and souvenirs at the Olde Union House Antiques and the Union Fairgrounds.

Local Culture and Customs of Union

Union has a laid-back lifestyle and values the outdoors, family, and tradition. The people are friendly and welcoming to visitors, and the town is proud of its history and culture.

Best Time to Visit Union

The best time to visit Union is during the summer months (May-September), when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities. However, the fall season (October-November) is also beautiful, with colorful foliage and harvest festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Union

Do:

  • Respect the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles.
  • Try the local seafood and craft beer.
  • Take the time to visit the museums and historical places.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Ignore safety warnings when engaging in outdoor activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Union

Union is a safe town with low crime rates. However, visitors should take the usual precautions like locking their car and avoiding walking alone at night.

Health in Union

There is a hospital in nearby Rockport, and other medical facilities in the surrounding area.

Getting to Union: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Union

The closest airport to Union is Knox County Regional Airport, which is located in Owls Head, ME. The airport is serviced by Cape Air and PenAir and offers daily flights to Boston.

Bus Stations Near Union

The closest bus station is located in Rockland, ME, which is about 15 miles from Union. Greyhound Bus Lines and Concord Coach Lines both stop at the station.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Union by car using Route 17 or Route 131. There are also several car rental companies in the area.

How to Get Around in Union

The best way to get around Union is by car. However, visitors can also use taxis or ride-sharing apps.

Where to Go Next from Union: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Camden: This charming coastal town is located about 15 miles from Union and is known for its picturesque harbor, quaint shops, and dining options.

  • Rockland: This town is located about 15 miles from Union and is home to the Farnsworth Art Museum and the Maine Lighthouse Museum.

Conclusion

Union is a hidden gem in Maine that is worth exploring. With its beautiful landscapes, delicious seafood, and rich history, it is the perfect vacation spot for those who want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Union and makes your vacation a memorable one.