Town of Fryeburg, Maine

Fryeburg is nestled in western Maine along the border with New Hampshire and a mere 20 minutes from the excitement and shopping found in North Conway. Meanwhile, back here in our town of about 3400 people, we enjoy the pleasures of smallish town living that features widely known annual events.

As you’ll see when you visit here, Oxford County stretches from west of Portland to the Canadian border. There’s plenty here to keep you occupied, no matter what time of year you visit. You’re likely to learn that Fryeburg is Oxford County’s oldest town. We’re proud to say that while we honor the past, we plan for the future!

Fly in to Fryeburg for Fantastic Views!

That’s right, we have our very own airport right here. Our Eastern Slope Regional Airport, only 15 minutes from North Conway, refers to itself as “Runway to the White Mountains.” While those amazing peaks are in the state next door, rest assured there’s lots going on here in Maine that will grab your attention. It’s good to know that if you plan to fly in on a national carrier, the International Jetport in Portland is just over an hour away.

There are plenty of hills, mountains, and trails for viewing, hiking, and biking. The Fryeburg Segment of the Mountain Division Trail is especially sweet as it’s flat and paved, providing access for those using wheelchairs and strollers. You can cycle it or cross-country ski, making this a four-season destination.

Speaking of destinations, this is a good time to fill you in on the Fryeburg Fair that’s held early in October. People come from all over to attend this week-long celebration of agricultural heritage. Okay, a quarter of a million attendees also come for culinary delights and thrilling rides. It’s especially spectacular to view these huge fairgrounds at night from the top of the Ferris wheel! That’s one of those memories that tend to stick.

Notable Places, Including Inns

The Marion Parsons House is a historic house made notable by the nurse for whom it was named. She was a pioneering nurse and educator who served people here in the U.S. and abroad during the early 20th century wars.

Another notable setting, and in line with thinking about education, is Fryeburg Academy, an independent coed school with both boarding and day options for students in grades nine through twelve. It was founded by the people of Fryeburg and has a student body of young people from around the globe.

I’m bringing up the inns we have here in Fryeburg as each is distinct and a couple offer unique dining options. Just run a search for Fryeburg Inns and they’ll pop up. Take your time viewing each, as they’re all destination spots unto themselves. And, if you’re heading to the fair, be sure to book way ahead of time!

Find Yourself Some Fun in the Sun

Months before fair season starts, we welcome the warm months. We sure are lucky to have both Lovewell Pond and the Saco River to keep us cooled off on hot summer days. The former is bigger than some Maine lakes and is good for fishing and boating, with public access at the southern end. It’s moderately developed meaning chances are good you can find a place nearby to rent during a stay here.

Let’s get back to the Saco that meanders here and there through our beautiful terrain. The river is great for kayaking, tubing, canoeing, and swimming at Weston’s Beach in particular. There are campgrounds in the area, letting you enjoy a full outdoor experience!

On another day you can head to the coast to visit Saco Bay where the river flows into the Atlantic right by the University of New England. You can have some fun in the sun at Ferry Beach State Park or one of the other long coastal stretches of sand. You’ll reach any one of them in an hour and a quarter.

Another option is to head over to North Conway for a day of skiing or boarding. Then again, there’s all that outlet shopping. Of course, we’d rather have you ski, board, and snowmobile over here in Maine. Right up the road an hour you’ll find Sunday River that offers you about the best you can find anywhere. Or head to Mt. Abram for a sweet family experience. The Fryeburg Area Snowmobile Association has all the info you need for riding safely around here.

As you can see, there’s a lot going on here. Even when the weather gets dreary, you’ll find something to do. Why, you can head on over to the Saco Valley Sports Center for bowling or some rounds of pool.

Other Lodging Info and Places for a Meal

Regardless of when you’re here, you might want to stay someplace where there’s a pool or hot tub. We sure have those, as well as those that provide a welcoming country ambiance, like the inns I just mentioned.

Now, you may be tempted to find lodging across the border. Please keep in mind there’s a lot of hustle, bustle, and traffic over there. Over here, you’re far more likely to enjoy the peace and an easy pace. One way to do that is to find a vacation rental that suits your interests. Some are right on the Saco River, others have a hot tub or fire pit, and then there are those nestled in the woods.

With any of these, you only need to leave to get a bite to eat. Or you can bring in everything you need for your stay, as there are local markets nearby. Your other option is to drive 15 to 25 minutes in either direction if you’re getting a load of food. Regardless, you’ll relish your time and whatever you fry up here in Fryeburg. Yup, that play on words was intended!

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