Town of Bucksport, Maine
Source: Town of Bucksport, Maine Facebook
Town of Bucksport, Maine
Exploring Bucksport Maine
Start your trip with a little historical intrigue and visit the tiny in-town cemetery that bears the infamous boot on the gravestone of town founder, Jonathan Buck. As the legend goes, Buck sentenced a witch to death and her last words were a curse that his gravestone will forever bear the imprint of a boot to show that he murdered a woman. Truth, or myth? You decide.
As you ponder the mystery and make your own determinations about the curse, you can learn more about the roots of this town by visiting the historical society on Main Street, located in the former train station, just a few steps from the harbor and docks. Photographs and archives of the town will paint a picture of how the bustling town began, from its earliest days with a steel mill in the 1800s, then transitioning to a tannery, and then the advent of the paper mill. Now the mill is demolished and making way for a salmon aquaculture project, as well as a church and an educational facility for Maine Maritime Academy.
Further along Main Street, you are likely to fall in love with some unique finds at Huckleberry Card and Gift, as well as enjoying a stroll through BookStacks to pick up some of your favorite authors and maybe a bottle of red, or a cup of joe. While you are right there, you should visit Port O’ Call gift shop. The assortment of funky socks, beautiful jewelry and alpaca wool creations will make you smile.
Source: Fort Knox Maine Facebook
Fort Knox from above
Bucksport Brews and Views
Just a few doors down in either direction you can experience culinary delights at MacLeod’s restaurant, or for a more casual setting, Friar’s Brewhouse. At MacLeod’s, enjoy upscale dining with fresh seafood, try something adventurous like roast raspberry duck, or grab some pub fare, like quesadillas or a burger. For a delicious lunch in a unique setting, visit Friar’s Brewhouse. You will not regret it for a minute, especially when you sample some of their homebrew and enjoy one of their specialty sandwiches, wraps, cheese boards, or charcuteries. The food and drink are amazing, and you will enjoy learning more about the Friar’s mission and commitment to their faith and service.
When you are ready for a leisurely stroll, head to Bucksport’s waterfront walkway. Whatever you do, bring your camera, as you are sure to notice seals popping up and herons along the riverbank. This beautifully constructed walkway is accessible for all, and is a short one-mile jaunt, meandering along the Penobscot River. Along this walk, you will also have perfect views of Fort Knox and the breathtaking Penobscot Narrows Bridge, complete with its world-renown observatory, the tallest in the world.
You can tour Fort Knox, learn about the massive structure and its history while viewing the artillery rooms, soldier’s quarters, and the vast green spaces of this unique historical setting. And don’t forget to venture into the observatory, a once-in-a-lifetime scenic event.
If you are ready for some lake vibes, visit Silver Lake and the pine-rich trails of the 67 acre Silver Lake Trails. Complete with a boat landing, you can cruise around the lake, catch a few fish, and soak up all that the Maine outdoors has to offer. Try a few rounds at Bucksport Golf Club while you are in the area. You may just find that your game is even better when you’ve had the opportunity to relax and explore this beautiful town.
Places to Stay in Bucksport
In spite of its small size, Bucksport offers a range of vacation rental options. Whether you prefer to stay on a lake, want to be near a town or enjoy being nestled in privacy in a cabin on the outskirts of town, there is something for everyone. If you are happiest when camping, you may prefer to stay at the Bucksport/Fort Knox KOA. Loaded with fun family activities and amenities, you can bring your camper, tent, or rent a cabin and stay for as long as you’d like. You will make new friends and enjoy a campfire under the stars. It will be a vacation you’ll never forget.
Bucksport is a thriving small town and offers plenty of recreation, scenic views, and fun times for your next vacation in Maine. When you visit Bucksport, you are sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.
