Alfred Travel Guide

Planning your trip to Alfred, Maine? Check out our guide for top attractions, accommodations, local culture, and more.


Introduction to Alfred

Nestled in the Southern Coast region of Maine, Alfred is a charming town known for its rich history and natural beauty. Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor adventurer, or foodie, there is something for everyone in Alfred.

List of Places to Visit in Alfred

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Alfred Shaker Museum: Take a step back in time and explore the life of the Alfred Shakers, a religious communal group that settled in the area in the 1800s. The museum features an impressive collection of artifacts, including furniture, tools, and textiles.

  • Sanford-Springvale Historical Society and Museum: Learn about the history of the Sanford-Springvale area, including its industrial roots and contributions to the Civil War effort. The museum boasts an extensive collection of photographs, artifacts, and memorabilia.

  • Alfred Historic District: Stroll through Alfred’s picturesque historic district, which features 48 buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Admire the beautifully preserved architecture while learning about the town’s rich history.

Natural Attractions of Alfred: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Agamenticus: Hike to the summit of Mount Agamenticus for sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The mountain boasts over 10 miles of trails through forests and meadows, and is a popular spot for birdwatching.

  • Mousam River Wildlife Sanctuary: Get up close and personal with Maine’s natural beauty at this 51-acre wildlife sanctuary. Walk along the river trail to spot native birds and other wildlife.

  • Alfred Waterboro Snowmobile Club: Take in the winter wonderland of Alfred on a snowmobile. The club maintains over 50 miles of trails through scenic landscapes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Alfred

  • Alfred Community Forest: This 1,100-acre forest boasts over 10 miles of trails for hiking and mountain biking. Explore the diverse terrain of forests, meadows, and wetlands while keeping an eye out for local wildlife like bear, moose, and deer.

  • Hobbs Farm Trail System: Strap on your hiking boots and explore the 7.5 miles of trails at Hobbs Farm. With stunning views of the Mousam River and surrounding countryside, this is a great spot for a peaceful afternoon stroll or a challenging mountain bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Alfred: Activities and Tours

  • Yawgoo Valley Ski Area and Water Park: Hit the slopes or cool off at the water park at this family-friendly attraction. With over 12 trails for skiing and snowboarding and a variety of water slides and attractions, there’s something for everyone at Yawgoo Valley.

  • Alfred Balloon Adventures: Take in the stunning views of Alfred and the surrounding countryside from the basket of a hot air balloon. This unique and unforgettable experience is a must-do for adventurous travelers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Alfred

Day Activity
1 Visit the Alfred Shaker Museum and explore the historic district
2 Hike Mount Agamenticus and enjoy a picnic lunch
3 Visit the Sanford-Springvale Historical Society and Museum
4 Go snowmobiling on the Alfred Waterboro Snowmobile Club trails
5 Take a hot air balloon ride with Alfred Balloon Adventures
6 Explore the Mousam River Wildlife Sanctuary and Hobbs Farm trails
7 Spend the day at Yawgoo Valley Ski Area and Water Park

Food and Drink Scene of Alfred

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Rolls: No trip to Maine would be complete without indulging in some fresh lobster. Sample the iconic lobster roll at one of Alfred’s seafood shacks for an unforgettable meal.

  • Blueberry Pie: Maine is known for its sweet and juicy blueberries, and Alfred is no exception. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of blueberry pie from a local bakery.

Local Beverages

  • Shipyard Brewing Company: Sample some of Maine’s best craft beer at Shipyard Brewing Company’s tasting room in nearby Portland. Be sure to try the flagship Export Ale, which has been brewed in Maine for over 20 years.

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

  • The Chadbourne House: This historic bed and breakfast is located in the heart of Alfred’s historic district. The beautifully restored Victorian home features comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast each morning.

  • Augustus Bove House: Escape to the countryside at this charming bed and breakfast located in nearby Waterboro. The inn features cozy rooms and beautiful gardens, and is just a short drive from Alfred’s top attractions.

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

  • Blueberry products: Stock up on all things blueberry at one of Alfred’s farmers markets. From fresh berries to jams and pies, you’ll find plenty of delicious treats to bring home with you.

  • Local crafts: The Alfred Art Walk, held every September, features the work of local artists and craftsmen. Pick up a one-of-a-kind piece of artwork or a handmade souvenir to remind you of your trip to Alfred.

Local Culture and Customs of Alfred

Maine is known for its laid-back and friendly culture, and Alfred is no exception. Visitors should be prepared for a slower pace of life and a warm welcome from the locals.

Best Time to Visit Alfred

The best time to visit Alfred depends on your interests. For outdoor adventurers, spring, summer, and fall are ideal for hiking, biking, and exploring. Winter is perfect for snowmobiling and skiing. If you’re interested in Maine’s cultural attractions, be sure to visit in the summer when many museums and historical sites are open to the public.

Do’s and Don’ts of Alfred

Do:

  • Do take the time to explore Alfred’s historic district and museums.
  • Do try the lobster rolls and blueberry pie.
  • Do bring comfortable shoes for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to pack layers for Maine’s unpredictable weather.
  • Don’t litter or disturb the natural beauty of Alfred’s outdoor attractions.
  • Don’t be afraid to strike up a conversation with friendly locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Alfred

Alfred is a safe and welcoming town, but visitors should still take common sense precautions like locking their cars and securing valuables when hiking or exploring.

Health in Alfred

Maine has a low rate of crime and a high standard of healthcare. Visitors should be aware of ticks and Lyme disease when exploring the outdoors, but with proper precautions (like wearing long pants and using insect repellant), the risk can be minimized.

Getting to Alfred: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Alfred

The closest major airport to Alfred is Portland International Jetport, located approximately 30 miles north of the town. Other options include Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, located two hours south of Alfred, and Boston Logan International Airport, located approximately two and a half hours south of the town.

Bus Stations Near Alfred

The closest bus station to Alfred is located in Sanford, approximately 10 miles east of the town. Greyhound and Concord Coach Lines both service the station.

Other Options

Many visitors choose to rent a car to explore the surrounding areas and attractions at their own pace. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also available, but may be limited in rural areas like Alfred.

How to Get Around in Alfred

The best way to get around Alfred is by car. While the town is small and walkable, many of the surrounding attractions and activities are located outside of town.

Where to Go Next from Alfred: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Portland: Just 30 miles north of Alfred, Portland is a bustling city with a lively food and drink scene, historic landmarks, and stunning waterfront views.

  • Ogunquit: Known for its beautiful beaches and charming downtown area, Ogunquit is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or the great outdoors, Alfred has plenty to offer. From hiking and biking to lobster rolls and blueberry pie, this charming New England town is the perfect destination for a relaxing and unforgettable vacation.