Town of Gorham, Maine

Source: Town of Gorham Facebook
Gorham, Maine

Gorham, Maine offers visitors and residents a wide variety of natural, historical, and cultural attractions, making this beautiful Cumberland County town a gem near the coast of Maine. Just west of Portland, Gorham offers hiking trails, kayaking and sightseeing opportunities, along with educational and cultural activities; you will never have a chance to be bored while visiting. With a population of around 18,336, Gorham is moderately sized and offers plenty of space for adventures while also offering the connection and camaraderie of a busy town.

History

If you are a history enthusiast, you will not want to miss the Baxter House Museum and library, where you can learn about the early life and times of Gorham settlers, including information about the late James Phinney Baxter, politician and philanthropist who provided Gorham with an array of properties and dedications. With a rich industrial history that includes everything from lumber to textiles and wagons, Gorham has always been a town of striving and achievement. The Gorham Historical Society welcomes you to learn more about the settlement of this town and enjoy the photos, artifacts and images that make up the history of this town.

Exploring Gorham Maine

To check out some former logging roads of Gorham, visit Tannery Brook Park, where you can walk anytime, or snowshoe during winter months and enjoy the scenic river. Presumpscot Regional Land Trust works with Gorham and surrounding towns to preserve and maintain the beauty of the region. There are countless trails and 2,170 acres of protected lands to explore. Gambo Preserve and Shaw Park are popular spots to hike and check out the dam and remnants of the mills in the area.

Outdoor Exploration and Activities in Gorham, Maine

Dundee Pond and North Gorham Lake are prime wildlife spotting locations, so be sure to bring your camera. Great Blue Heron, osprey and eagles are common sites for this region. Also, stay aware of your surroundings in the event that you come across a bear while hiking. Make sure you take precautions and keep your distance. The alewife run is another incredible natural sight to see if you happen to be in the area during spring. Imagine over 40,000 fish in migration!

Cross-country skiing is another popular pastime in Gorham, and you will find that there are plenty of places to go. The Nature Loop and Silver Brook Trails are easy to navigate and relatively short stints for beginners or people who want a low-impact trip on the trails. The well-maintained trails and nature preserves in Gorham make it a scenic destination like no other. The community’s commitment to preservation and its natural heritage show the value its residents place on maintaining this land for centuries to come.

All of this natural beauty makes for some incredible outdoor adventures. If you want to try out your skating skills, sign up for a 5K or get involved with the many activities in the area, take a look at Gorham Parks and Recreation site, where you can find your next adventure and get to know some of the locals. The University of Southern Maine’s Gorham campus is another great way to get to know the town’s diverse culture and population. Take a tour of the campus, visit the art gallery and glance through the course offerings, you may even decide to stick around and enroll in one of the many accredited programs.

Enjoy golf? Say no more! Gorham Country Club welcomes golfers of all skill levels to visit and check out the beautiful grounds and find out why they are called the “Maine’s Friendliest Course.” When you have exhausted your golf skills, Sebago Brewing Company has your favorite beer on tap, along with some choice food options sure to please everyone in your group.

Source: Sebago Brewing Company Facebook
Sebago Brewing Company has a location in Gorham, Maine.

Restaurants and Lodging

Ocean Gardens Restaurant and Tavern is another great choice for fresh seafood and a cozy atmosphere. If you are craving authentic Mexican food, Azul Tequila is your best bet. Everything from chimichangas to quesadillas and salads are on the menu. When in doubt, settle for a loaded pile of nachos, which is always a good choice.

Gorham has plenty of places to stay during your excursion. Pine Crest Inn is a spacious, yet cozy bed and breakfast with convenient amenities and unique rooms. There are chain hotels in nearby Portland as well as a wide selection of rental options through Airbnb.

When you visit Gorham, Maine you enter a community that is committed to the preservation of natural and historical places, along with a culture of diversity and connection. Take a hike on the many trails, visit local shops, galleries, and restaurants in the area, and find out why everyone loves Gorham.

Related Posts