Town of Waterboro, Maine

Waterboro is a small town in York County with a population of about 8,000. The town is part of the Portland, South Portland, and Biddeford metropolitan area. It has a peaceful small-town vibe while also being conveniently located to the nearby city life of Portland.

Waterboro was originally known as Massabesic Plantation. The name originated from the Abenaki, as “Massabesic” means “place of much water.”cCaptain John Smith was the first permanent European settler in the area in 1768, and on March 6, 1787, Massabesic Plantation was founded.

Residents of Waterboro refer to their town as “hardworking and family and business-friendly.” A great place to visit and to live!’ Waterboro’s family-friendly atmosphere can be seen through its active high-school sports community at Massabesic High.

Exploring Waterboro Maine

The heart and soul of Waterboro, Friendship Park is a family-friendly park, located on Old Alfred Road. It contains a soccer field, Little League field, beach volleyball court, basketball court, and horseshoes. Friendship Park even has its own cornhole league.

During the summer months, there are public events held within the park, including live music on Friday evenings from 7 to 9 PM as part of the town’s Concerts in the Park series.

Waterboro Old Home Days is a 2-day family event in July complete with a parade, fireworks, live music and entertainment, and tons of food and activities. On top of this, the York County Blues Fest is a big deal every August, drawing in Blues fans from all over the region.

Lakes, Parks, and Wildlife

Little Ossipee Lake is Waterboro’s most important natural resource, and it’s one of the cleanest lakes in the state of Maine. This beautiful lake is actually a large pond (557 acres, to be exact) and has a beach area, boat access, fishing, and a campground.

Lake Arrowhead is another great place to swim, boat, kayak, and fish. This large lake is fairly shallow with the deepest part measuring only 25 feet deep.

Bob Fay Memorial Park at Turtle Cove in North Waterboro has a beach area, grills, and picnic tables. There’s also a walking path here and a spot for fishing.

Jaden’s Journey Memorial Park also has lake access and a boat launch. This park, which was created in the memory of 15-year-old Jaden Journey Dremsa, is on Lake Arrowhead.

Waterboro Barrens Preserve is a 2,475-acre woodland area protected by The Nature Conservancy. You can access the many walking trails from Old Woods Rd and enjoy the tranquility of this lovely area. There are said to be many species of rare butterflies and moths here. The declining whip-poor-will bird and the common nighthawk make their ground nests here in this wooded area.

Ossipee Mountain is the highest point of land in Waterboro. There is a 1.9-mile trail that leads up to the historic fire tower on the summit. The fire tower offers a breathtaking 360-degree view from the top.

Explore Historical Waterboro

Waterboro has its share of historical homes and buildings like its neighboring towns. Maine’s history has been lovingly preserved and protected by each town’s own historical societies.

The Johnson Mill was established in 1856 by Joseph Johnson and was used as a shingle mill. His son Dennis changed it to a sawmill, creating The Dennis Johnson Lumber Company Sawmill, which was a prominent business in the area from 1869-1963. The business was passed on from son to son. The Johnson Mill was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007.

The Taylor House was built in 1850 by James Leavitt. This Greek Revival period house has 6 bedrooms, a magnificent ballroom, and still retains its original wallpaper in many of the rooms. James Leavitt was a savvy businessman who bought local produce and shipped it to Portland and Boston. His son Benjamin opened a store on their property and served as Postmaster and Town Clerk. Benjamin pieced out cloth to local women to make shirts, coats, and trousers for Boston clothiers. Because of his success, he was able to purchase much of the land around him.

Elder Grey Meeting House is a single gable house typical of early rural meeting houses of the time. It was built in 1806 and moved to its present location in 1832 to be more convenient for the minister.

Local Food and Shopping

Waterboro may have a small-town feel but you’ll still find the amenities you are searching for. However, unless you’re camping here, you’ll have to look elsewhere for lodging. There are motels, hotels, and B&Bs close by in neighboring towns, though none directly in Waterboro.

You will find plenty of food and grocery places here though. Hannaford, Cornerstone Country Market, Lakeside Market, Waterboro Market and Cafe, and Merrill’s Country Store are all wonderful shops full of local produce and everything you could want for a day at the lake or a local hike.

If you’re searching for souvenirs and gifts check out Loon Cottage Gift Shop.

Enjoy pizza, burgers, wings, beer, and more at Woody’s Sports Grille and Flippin’ Good. There’s also Landlocked Lobster Pound, Cozi Corner Cafe, and Vandy’s which are all tasty depending upon what you’re craving. And you’ll also find a Subway and a Dunkin’ when you need to grab something quick.

Whether you are just passing through or planning to relocate here, you’ll be sure to enjoy your time in Waterboro!

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