The Best Things to Do in Boothbay Harbor, Maine: A Complete Guide
The first time I visited this coastal region, I fell head over heels in love. With its rugged shoreline, towering spruce trees, and classic New England charm, there are endless opportunities to explore. From boat tours to nature preserves, this guide covers the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor for families.
Note: Boothbay and Boothbay Harbor are technically two separate towns, but for all intensive purposes, I will include all of our favorite things to do in Boothbay Harbor as well as Boothbay proper.
The Best Things to Do in Boothbay Harbor, Maine
1. Stroll and shop along Commercial Street
One of the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor is simply walk along the waterfront. Commercial Street is lined with shops, restaurants, and local favorites.
Stop into Red Cup Coffeehouse for a morning drink, browse Sherman’s Maine Coast Book Shop for kids’ finds, and pop into Two Salty Dogs Pet Outfitters if you are traveling with your dog. Abacus Gallery is also worth a visit for unique local art.
2. Get ice cream at Downeast Ice Cream Factory
No trip is complete without a stop for ice cream. Downeast Ice Cream Factory has been serving up homemade flavors for decades. Their black raspberry with chocolate sprinkles is my personal favorite.
3. Visit the Maine State Aquarium
This small but engaging aquarium is a great stop for families. Operated by the Maine Department of Marine Resources, it focuses on local marine life. The touch tank is always a highlight for kids and a fun way to learn about the Gulf of Maine.
4. Take a day trip to Monhegan Island
One of the most memorable things to do in Boothbay Harbor is taking a ferry to Monhegan Island. Located about ten miles offshore, the island feels remote and untouched. Plan for a full day, as the boat ride takes about 1.5 hours each way, leaving a few hours to explore the island’s trails and coastline.
5. Go on a Puffin Tour
See firsthand the National Audubon Society’s success in re-establishing a puffin colony on Eastern Egg Rock on a Cap’n Fish’s Cruise.
The cruise is narrated by the National Audubon’s Project Puffin so you get the history of puffins and the Eastern Egg Rock restoration directly from people involved with the project.
6. Visit Burnt Island Lighthouse
The Burnt Island Lighthouse was build in 1821 making it the second oldest surviving lighthouse in Maine. Approximately one mile from Boothbay Harbor, Burnt Island can only be accessed by boat or kayak. Kyaks can be rented from Tidal Transit.
Balmy Day Cruises offers a “living history” tour of the lighthouse. After a scenic 15 minute boat ride, you will have 2.5 hours to explore the island. While on the island, visitors can climb the spiral stairs up into the lantern-room, tour the buildings, and visit the covered-walkway museum.
7. Experience a Traditional Clambake on Cabbage Island
Sail the Bennie Alice from Pier 6 in Boothbay Harbor to Cabbage Island, a quintessential Maine experience. The Moore family hosts guests 7 days a week from mid-June through Labor Day.
On the island, you will enjoy a traditional Downeast clambake cooked on the water’s edge. This is the number 1 rated attraction on TripAdvisor. Book far in advance as they always sell out.
8. Carousel Music Theater
This summer dinner theater combines a three course meal with live performances. The cast doubles as the waitstaff, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere.
9. Harbor Theater
If big screen entertainment is more your speed, check out the Harbor Theater. This non-profit theater shows a mix of new releases, independent films, and special events year-round.
The Best Things to Do in Boothbay, Maine
1. Explore Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is such a gem. This is one of the top attractions in the region and a must-visit. The children’s garden is especially impressive, with interactive exhibits inspired by classic books.
Kids will love searching for the giant wooden trolls hidden throughout the grounds.
2. Visit Boothbay Craft Brewery
After a day of exploring, this is a great place to relax. The brewery is family friendly and dog friendly, with outdoor seating, games, and a laid-back atmosphere.
Be sure to sneak inside and look for the hidden door!
3. Step back in time at Boothbay Railway Village
This living history museum offers a glimpse into Maine’s past. Families can explore historic buildings and ride a vintage train, which is always a hit with kids.
Train rides depart on the hour from 11-4 PM Tuesday- Sunday.
4. Shop the Boothbay Farmers Market
Held on Thursdays from late spring through early fall, this market is a fun stop for local food, handmade goods, and live music. It is a great place to pick up picnic supplies.
5. Walk Porters Preserve
This easy one mile loop is perfect for families. It offers beautiful coastal views and is dog friendly. There are also geocaches along the trail, which makes it extra fun for kids.
6. Hike Ovens Mouth Preserve
For a more adventurous outing, head to Ovens Mouth Preserve. The trails here are a bit more rugged, with roots and rocks, but the views are worth it.
7. Play at Dolphin Mini Golf
For classic family fun, stop by Dolphin Mini Golf. There is mini golf, an arcade, and ice cream, making it a great stop for kids of all ages.
There are so many incredible options when it comes to the best things to do in Boothbay Harbor. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a longer stay, this coastal Maine destination offers something for every member of the family.
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