Town of Lebanon, Maine

Maine’s 23rd town, Lebanon, is located in the southern part of the state and includes the villages of Center Lebanon, West Lebanon, North Lebanon, South Lebanon, and East Lebanon. Salmon Falls River and the Little River are important in the early development of Lebanon, providing waterpower for mills. Rich pine forests were to the northwest and fertile flatlands for farming to the southeast—the area was prime for early settlement.

Today, Lebanon and the surrounding villages are residential communities for larger towns and cities in the southern Maine area. Portland is an hour to the northeast, and Kennebunkport and the Atlantic Ocean are about a half-hour to the west. Lebanon is rural, with plenty of open space and farmland, making it an ideal area to visit or live, especially if you value a rustic and laid-back lifestyle. Even though life in Lebanon is relaxed, easy-going, and rural, there are still many exciting things to do and see in the area.

Exploring Lebanon Maine

Old Grist Mill, or Little River Grist Mill in eastern Lebanon, was established in 1774 and is the oldest surviving industrial building in the community. The mill operated well into the 20th century, and over time served as a town center, a small store, a public meeting house, and as the town’s first gas station. Grist Mill, at some point, was turned into a private residence and was most recently upgraded and remodeled. The mill was featured in the HGTV’s series “You Live in What?” Someone stepped in, dropped big bucks, and bought it in 2020. You can’t visit the Grist Mill, it’s a private residence, but you can see Grist Mill Bridge; it’s purported to have been built around the same time as the mill and serves as a rare example of a bridge with some 18th-century elements intact.

While Maine is known more for its blueberries than grapes, successful and productive vineyards do exist—Prospect Hill Winery & Vineyard—is a family-run Estate winery well worth a visit. The Winery offers tours and tastings (seasonally), and visitors have commented on the beautiful landscaping and vineyards, scenic mountain views, the hospitality, and, of course, the delicious wine. And if you are looking for blueberries (or peaches), check out Berry Best Farm Blueberry and Peach Picking, a 75-acre hilltop farm with 2,500 pick-your-own blueberry bushes and 100 peach trees. They also make jams, jellies, and other delectable items that they sell in their gift shop.

For something sweeter, check out Maple Moon Farm, a working 1790s era farm that, besides offering maple syrup and other maple products, has a private Airbnb suite and has the space to accommodate the “farm wedding of your dreams.” Another destination spot in the area with a unique Airbnb is the Tuckaway Tree Farm—if you’ve ever wanted to stay in a yurt—this is your opportunity. The farm raises Christmas Trees and hosts weddings, retreats, and reunions. Make sure you get some quality time hanging with the resident donkeys.

Skydiving in Lebanon

If skydiving is on your bucket list, Lebanon just happens to be home to Sky Dive New England. With 37 years in the business and a stellar and enthusiastic staff, this business is a New England mecca for your once-in-a-lifetime experience of parachuting. With spectacular mountain and ocean views, and an excellent reputation for providing a safe and exciting skydiving experience, it’s no wonder some folks keep returning year after year. Sky Dive has an onsite eatery—The Ripcord Café—and onsite accommodations with community events and live music if you are traveling to the area for your jump.

A Sense of Community

Nothing says community more than the local places that draw members together. And Lebanon has no shortage. The Martha Sawyer Library is an excellent resource for local information, happenings and grab a good read. Who doesn’t get in line for ice cream? School House Ice Cream & Farm, located in the historic Lebanon schoolhouse (built in the early-1800s), serves up scoops and pints of Annabelle’s Natural Ice Cream and is your local source for fresh eggs and honey. The farm is also a rescue facility for small farm animals, and the youngsters can hang out with the critters! The farm also hosts (seasonally) a cruise night for antique cars and is quite the draw. The Hen House Cafe offers breakfast and lunch every day except Monday and specializes in breakfasts and comfort food. Stop on in, get a feel for the local vibe, and see what makes Lebanon a welcoming and warm Maine town!

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