Fryeburg is a charming town located in Oxford County, Maine famed for its International Musical Arts Institute, proximity to White Mountain National Park, and its location on the Saco River. The lovely town of nearly 3,500 citizens offers nature lovers the opportunity to kayak, snowmobile, mountain bike, and hike through the surrounding forested areas to experience stunning vistas, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, and placid lakes. Those searching for cultural experiences need look no further than the International Musical Arts Institute where on most evenings, world-class theatre, dance, and symphony can be appreciated. And to extend your stay and enjoyment, check out these Airbnb vacation rentals in Fryeburg and nearby Bridgton. Before booking your country cottage or cosy log cabin to visit this unique east coast getaway, make certain to check out this list of things to do in Fryeburg, Maine.
1. Explore Farm Museum's exhibits at Fryeburg Fair
Posted by Fryeburg Fair on Tuesday, 1 October 2019
Look through the exhibits featuring New England’s early years when industries such as farming, logging, quarrying, shoe-making, carpentry, and many others were popular. The 19th-century barn and schoolhouse contain many artefacts including items used in blacksmithing and wheel-making. During a visit, you may be able to watch a demonstration at the museum featuring the operation of some of these pre-modern day items. Besides the museum, there are fairgrounds where visitors can enjoy their favourite fair rides and watch live music events hosted throughout the summer months.
Farm Museum at Fryeburg Fair
Address: ME-5, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Farm Museum at fryeburg fair
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm (daily)
2. Attend a summer concert at Bradley Park
10.20.17
Posted by Piyanan Saiphan Ellis on Saturday, 21 October 2017
Spread a blanket on the lawn of Bradley Park to enjoy a picnic during the fall to bask in the sun while appreciating the stunning fall foliage. During the summer months, bring a lawn chair and sit near the Victorian-style gazebo to enjoy live musical acts perform during the summer concert series. Stroll through the park during the spring months to witness the appearance of the early buds on the deciduous trees. Visit the park during the winter to experience a beautiful winter wonderland where the kids can enjoy making snow angels or snowmen while you sit on a bench and indulge in a hot chocolate to keep warm.
Bradley Park
Address: 479 Main Street, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Bradley Park
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
3. Rappel to the top of Jockey Cap Rock
Grab your climbing gear and prepare to rappel the challenging granite face of Jockey Cap Rock where your tendons of steel and resolve will be tested as you ascend to the top. For hikers, there is a trail through the forest which provides a less dangerous option than climbing a rock face jutting 600 feet (182.8 m) above the ground. Once you have reached the peak, prepare yourself for a stunning view of the New Hampshire Mountains and surrounding dense evergreen forest. Be certain to visit during the autumn to enjoy the fall foliage in its stunning arrangement of golds, crimsons, and coppers.
Jockey Cap Rock
Address: Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
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4. Build sandcastles at Westons Beach
Relax on the long stretch of golden sand while the kids swim in the Saco River or build sandcastles on the beach. Sunbathe while watching kayakers paddle by in their colourful kayaks along the serene river. Sit on your beach mat or beach towel to enjoy a picnic of hot dogs and roasted marshmallows during a summer day at the beach. Finish your day off by taking a quick dip in the cool, refreshing waters of the surrounding Saco River.
Westons Beach
Address: River Street, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
5. Indulge in Southern classics at 302 West Smokehouse & Tavern
Pull up a seat and be prepared to be astounded by the delicious Southern classics served daily in this smokehouse where the meat is smoked in house. Enjoy barbecue specials such as pulled pork and ribs slathered in sweet or smokey barbecue sauce accompanied by a basket of homemade cornbread. Make certain to stop by on Sundays for a brunch filled with traditional items such as omelettes, pancakes, sausages, bacon, and eggs Benedict served alongside spritzy mimosas. This family-friendly restaurant offers a kids menu featuring hot dogs, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, and mac and cheese along with root beer floats and ice cream sundaes for dessert.
302 West Smokehouse & Tavern
Address: 636 Main Street, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: 302 West Smokehouse & Tavern
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 11am - 11pm; Sun: 9am - 11pm
6. Watch the sunset over Saco River from Hemlock Bridge
Take a stroll along the historic Hemlock Bridge to enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Saco River during a visit to Fryeburg. The bridge was originally constructed in 1857, but was updated with reinforcements to carry vehicle traffic in 1988. Make certain to stop by to enjoy the bridge as its the last one of its kind in Fryeburg which resulted in it being named as a Maine Historic Civil Engineering Landmark in 2002.
Hemlock Bridge
Address: East Fryeburg, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Hemlock Bridge
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
7. Enjoy a performance in the award-winning Fryeburg Academy Peforming Arts Centre
Take an evening off to attend award-winning theatre productions performed by the academy’s own students alongside professional artists. Participate in educational workshops held throughout the year including one on avalanche safety and preparedness featured in the winter. Stroll through the hallways, admiring the numerous visual art displays throughout the gallery. Enjoy evenings of opera, symphony, and world-class jazz performances in the state-of-the-art theatre.
Fryeburg Academy Performing Arts Center
Address: 18 Bradley Street, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
8. Paddle Saco River with Saco River Canoe & Kayak
Drop by to rent a canoe or kayak to paddle the calm waters of the Saco River while enjoying views of the thick forest and majestic White Mountains during your visit to Fryeburg. If you prefer to spend a leisurely day floating down the river, the company rents out tubes which feature headrests and a drink holder to make your three-hour trip to Canal Bridge a completely laid-back experience. If you prefer a group adventure, the company can prepare detailed itineraries to include local area sights as well as camping trips along the peaceful Saco River.
Saco River Canoe & Kayak
Address: 1009 Main Street, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Saco River Canoe & Kayak
Opening hours: Thu - Tue: 9am - 5pm (closed on Wed)
Price: 8 - 45 USD
9. Sample local beer at Saco River Brewing
Visit Saco River Brewing’s tasting room to sample locally produced beer including uniquely flavoured brews featuring coffee and chocolate. Children and pets are welcome to pay a visit to the tasting room while you sample their ales. Don’t despair if you don’t have time to stop by for a sample during your visit to Fryeburg since Saco River beer is served in many local restaurants and sold in the area’s liquor stores.
Saco River Brewing
Address: 10 Jockey Cap Lane, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Saco River Brewing
Opening hours: Thu - Fri: 3pm - 8pm; Sat: 12pm - 8pm; Sun: 12pm - 6pm (closed from Mon - Wed)
10. Go on mountain adventures with Northeast Snowmobile and ATV Rentals
Bring out your adventurous side by visiting Northeast Snowmobile and ATV Rentals. Prior to taking your ATV or snowmobile onto the trails, guides will provide instruction on operating your vehicle, trail rules, and safety. As you enter the dirt or snow-covered trail system, you can rest assured as your guide will accompany you until you feel comfortable using the vehicle. While bounding along through the powdery trails, experience stunning scenic views of the mountains and forest dusted in glistening snowflakes before using the GPS system to return back to the rental location.
Northeast Snowmobile and ATV Rentals
Address: 532 Main Street, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Northeast Snowmobile and ATV Rentals
Opening hours: 8:30am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 75 - 600 USD
11. Play bowling and virtual golf at Saco Valley Sports Centre
Lace-up your leather bowling shoes to compete against one another on the shiny waxed lanes during an evening of Cosmic Bowling. Shoot a round of pool before ordering a pizza and refreshments to enjoy in one of the leather booths. For golf enthusiasts, the centre offers a chance to rent clubs to play a round of virtual golf which is ideal for rainy days or days when the weather is cool outdoors.
Saco Valley Sports Center
Address: 95 Pine Street, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Saco Valley Sports Center
Opening hours: Mon, Tue, Thu: 9am - 9pm; Wed, Sun: 1pm - 9pm; Fri: 1pm - 10pm; Sat: 10am - 10pm
Price: 2 - 26 USD
12. Enjoy a nature walk along Mountain Division Trail
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the woods along the Mountain Division Trail throughout the year. Portions of the trail from South Windom to Westbrook are along railway tracks, but provide easy walking for those hiking through the forest. Mountain biking enthusiasts will enjoy the nearly 5 miles (8 km) of trails to navigate during their outdoor adventure. Make certain on warmer days to stop by Sebago Lake Village to take a brief moment to cool off in the lake or to allow your dog to enjoy a refreshing drink and some time to swim.
Mountain Division Trail
Address: Fryeburg, ME 04037, USA
13. Tap into maple syrup at Weston's Farm & Market
Congratulations to Weston Farm for your Blue Ribbon at the Fair !
Posted by Bernadette Donohue on Sunday, 6 October 2019
Come by for a visit to Weston’s Farm during the winter months and tap the orchard’s maple trees to release the syrup from the trees. During the spring and summer months, visitors can join locals in the greenhouses to choose from among the large selection of annuals and perennials for their home gardens. Stroll through the large garden to see the amazing array of vegetables while taking in stunning views of the Saco River Valley. For those visiting during the harvest season, make certain to attend the annual community dinner for an enjoyable evening with Fryeburg’s locals.
Weston's Farm & Market
Address: 48 River Street, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Weston’s Farm & Market
Opening hours: 8:30am - 6pm (daily)
14. Experience cabin life at Canal Bridge Campground
Pitch your tent or rent a cabin to enjoy a family-friendly camping trip along the Saco River. Spend your days relaxing on the sandy beach, tubing, kayaking, or canoeing along the slow-moving waters of the Saco River while enjoying awe-inspiring views of the forest and mountains. After lazing away on the beach, take time to use the fire pit to make a campfire dinner to be enjoyed on one of the picnic tables located at each tent site. After dinner, prepare to roast marshmallows, tell stories over the crackling campfire flames, and count the stars before tucking into your sleeping bag.
Canal Bridge Campground
Address: 2144 ME-5, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Canal Bridge Campground
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Price: 30 - 140 USD
15. Walk through history at Fryeburg Historical Society
Posted by Fryeburg Historical Society on Wednesday, 10 April 2019
Take a walk through history of the Fryeburg area by combing through the numerous exhibits compiled of genealogies, artefacts, and preserved articles at the museum and research library. Delve into one of the many publications in the library to discover the customs, chronicles of daily life, and history of the local area. Recently, the Fryeburg Historical Society purchased the Colonel Samuel Osgoode historical home to house many of the antiques, newspaper articles, and other items to increase in the education of the local community and visitors about Fryeberg’s past.
Fryeburg Historical Society
Address: 83 Portland Street, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Fryeburg Historical Society
Opening hours: April - November Tue - Thu: 10am - 2pm (closed from Fri - Mon)
Price: Donations accepted
16. Admire the dolls on display at Hazel & Owen Currier Doll Museum
Doll lovers everywhere will want to make a visit to Hazel & Owen Currier Doll Museum where they can admire the over 10,000-piece doll collection. Relive your childhood by admiring the collection of Cabbage Patch Dolls and rag dolls such as Anne and Andy on display in the historic Fryeburg Town House. Admire the international fashion doll icon, Barbie, modelling numerous dazzling fashions remembered by generations of little girls. Gaze through the glass to admire the artistry of international dolls with their cultural fashions along with dolls based on historical and literary figures.
Hazel & Owen Currier Doll Museum
Address: 1847 Lovell Road, Fryeburg, ME 04037, United States
Website: Hazel & Owen Currier Doll Museum
Opening hours: May, June & September - by appointment; July & August - Wed - Thu: 10am - 2pm (closed from Fri - Tue)
Price: Donations accepted
Visit a nature lover's paradise
After hiking to the summit of Mount Washington in White Mountains National Park and encountering native residents such as white-tailed deer, moose, bears, and other wildlife, make certain to drop in at Saco River Brewing for a cold drink afterwards. During the fall months, the stunning colours of the fall foliage throughout the Saco River Valley is an unbelievably beautiful sight to behold and shouldn’t be missed. There’s plenty of things to do in Fryeburg and just as many things to do in nearby Bridgton. Visitors will likely enjoy taking in the local community fairs and markets, cultural performances, and checking out the unique Currier Doll Museum to create life-lasting memories before returning to their daily lives.
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