City of Old Town, Maine
Welcome To Old Town, Maine
The name Old Town is both accurate and confusing. In 1840, Old Town was newly born as a proper town in Maine. In 1891, it was then incorporated as a city—so it truly is an old town, because it hasn’t been one for over a century! Still, many people are surprised to hear that Old Town is actually a small city with a population of roughly 7,400 people.
Exploring Old Town Maine
There are a number of historic and notable businesses in Old Town. Here is a small sampling of companies calling the city home:
- Old Town Canoe – Both locals and canoe aficionados across the country might best know Old Town for its most notable long-standing business, Old Town Canoe. It was established in 1898, and made its beginnings by selling old-school wood and canvas canoes. Over the years, they have graduated to using different materials as well as started making kayaks. Old Town Canoe is considered one of America’s best and most well-known canoe manufacturers.
- Governor’s – Governor’s Restaurant & Bakery (just called Governor’s by most) is another historic business in the area. It started as an ice cream stand under a different name, but has now become one of the area’s most treasured breakfast joints and bakeries. Don’t live in or near Old Town, but still live in Maine? Fear not, because Governor’s now has six total locations across the state!
- Box of Maine – Residents or their out-of-state loved ones may have heard of Box of Maine, a company that puts together gift boxes of classic Maine-themed goodies. You can choose a specialty box or pack your own, and either take it with you or mail it anywhere in the world. With options ranging from Maine foods like Moxie soda and red hot dogs to cute red lobster plushies and blueberry soap, you’ll enjoy the variety of choices that are just as diverse as the state itself. If you’re a tourist in Old Town, stop by the Box of Maine store to get yourself some traditional Maine souvenirs and snacks!
Source: Box of Maine Facebook Page
Box of Maine
Useful Facilities
A Dysart’s Travel Stop awaits all weary travelers shortly past the I-95 exit into Old Town with gas pumps and a counter inside, where you can order a hot meal to eat on the go. Travel further down the road and you’ll be driving past every business and service you could need, whether you’re a resident or a visitor. There are plenty of restaurants, several auto-repair shops, and a few churches for different worshipers. There’s a Hannaford, Dollar General, Gold Star Cleaners, and a Domino’s all in the same plaza, along with several other businesses and eateries. If you need anything, Old Town’s got you covered, and you’ll have a good choice of businesses to help you out.
Old Town-Orono YMCA
If you live in Old Town, or even if you’re just visiting, swing by the Old Town-Orono YMCA for a swim or a number of fitness classes. The Y offers day passes for non-members, as well as a free first day for anyone who has never been before. Residents can take advantage of their weekly on-site child care program, which takes care of kids ranging from infants to preschool age. They also offer an extensive After School Activity Program for children where they get guided use of many areas in the facility, and can even get help with homework.
Entertainment In Old Town
There’s entertainment aplenty in Old Town, but outdoor lovers are especially in luck. Old Town has several small parks to visit, as well as three different bodies of water running through it. Sewall Park lets you experience both. It borders Perch Pond and has a boat landing, as well as a large grass field to hang out in. In the winter, people go out to Perch Pond for ice skating.
On the other side of the pond and park is the network of Perch Pond Recreational Trails, where you can take a wooded walk and catch glimpses of the water. Those with kids looking to burn off some energy can visit Perkins Avenue Park. It’s got playground equipment and a unique splash pad that’s sure to impress and entertain the little ones.
For indoor fun, try out the Old Town Bowling Center for some old-fashioned candlepin bowling. They also sell food and beverages and have a small arcade center that’s fun for the whole family. The Old Town Museum is worth checking out too, if your visit matches up with their limited open hours. Their small volunteer team is proud to show off the historical objects that helped make Old Town into the great city it is today.
And for the outdoor enthusiast that hates to be stuck inside? They can probably tolerate a visit to the Old Town Trading Post, where they can browse through plenty of fishing and hunting gear, including guns.
Although traditional Old Town sights and activities may be geared towards the avid outdoorsman, there’s still plenty for the whole family and indoor lovers to enjoy. Whether you want to explore the woods or dine at one of the many fine local restaurants, whether you’re a tourist or a resident—Old Town welcomes you.
