Name: Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens
Address: 105 Botanical Gdns Dr, Boothbay, ME 04537, USA

Nestled in the heart of Boothbay, Maine, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens is a nature lover's haven offering an unparalleled outdoor experience. Spanning nearly 300 acres, the gardens are celebrated for their breathtaking landscapes and expansive collections of native and exotic plants. Open year-round, the gardens promise a changing spectacle of color and flora that captivate in every season. 

The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens cater to a diverse audience, making it an ideal destination for families, garden enthusiasts, and tourists alike. Children are sure to delight in the Bibby and Harold Alfond Children's Garden, where they can explore interactive exhibits designed to inspire a love of nature. The gardens’ unique blend of art and nature includes impressive sculptures and water features scattered throughout, inviting contemplation and exploration at every turn.

Visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls through meticulously designed landscapes or take advantage of educational programs and guided tours that offer insights into horticulture and conservation. The café on-site provides a perfect spot to relax and enjoy refreshments, making it easy to spend an entire day immersed in the beauty of nature. Whether you're seeking inspiration, relaxation, or an enriching family outing, the Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens promise an unforgettable experience that harmonizes the natural beauty of Maine’s coast with world-class botanical artistry. 

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

Maine’s called Vacationland for a reason.  We’ve got pristine mountains and lakes, fields, forests and 3,500 miles of coastline. You can smell the salt sea in the air and see shooting stars above your head at night. Every corner of the state beckons you outside to enjoy its raw beauty, making Maine a haven for sports.

And for the pros, almost pros, not even close to pros and people who just like to cheer, the countless sporting events that take place here every year are a special treat. They’re a chance for everyone to enjoy, if even for a weekend, the special place we get to take in all year.

Plus with 4 seasons, Maine can host 4 times the types of events. Skiing to sailing, running to rafting, we can be the backdrop for it all. So if you’d like to get in on all Maine has to offer (be it hosting an event, planning, participating or just watching), we at the Maine Sports Commission are here to help get YOU here.

Maine Sports Commission

Discover the beauty of the Maine coastline with Balmy Days Cruises, located at 42 Commercial St, Boothbay Harbor. Renowned for offering a memorable maritime experience, Balmy Days Cruises invites both locals and tourists to explore the picturesque waters of Boothbay Harbor. With a variety of tours available, including the popular Monhegan Island trip, visitors can indulge in the breathtaking sights of the region's unique wildlife and stunning seascapes.

Balmy Days Cruises caters to a wide range of passengers, making it an ideal choice for families, groups, and solo adventurers seeking a day filled with scenic wonder. The cruises are designed to offer comfort and a closer connection to the enchanting nautical landscape, perfect for those looking to relax and unwind.

What sets Balmy Days Cruises apart is its dedication to providing an authentic Maine maritime experience. As you embark on a voyage full of rich coastal history and natural beauty, knowledgeable crew members enhance the journey with engaging narratives about the area's significance and charm. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Boothbay Harbor aficionado, Balmy Days Cruises promises an unforgettable experience on the water.

Visit Balmy Days Cruises for a chance to explore, learn, and revel in the serene ambiance of Maine's coastal treasures. 

Balmy Days Cruises

Discover the charm and intrigue of Maine’s past at the Boothbay Railway Village Museum, located in the picturesque town of Boothbay. This unique museum offers visitors an engaging journey through history, displaying an extensive collection of vintage locomotives, classic automobiles, and period structures set amid a scenic three-acre village. At the heart of the experience is a captivating narrow-gauge steam railway, offering rides that transport guests back in time through beautifully restored Maine landscapes. 

Ideal for history buffs and families alike, the museum provides educational experiences that are both fun and immersive. Visitors can explore the 1847 Boothbay Town Hall, the meticulously restored antique vehicle exhibits, and a quaint Model Railway with intricate displays that fascinate hobbyists and children. With hands-on exhibits and knowledgeable staff, the museum offers insights into the fascinating history of railroads and life in 19th-century New England. 

The Boothbay Railway Village Museum is not just about static displays; it hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, adding a dynamic layer to its historical offerings. Whether you are traveling with family, a group of friends, or venturing solo, this venue provides a delightful step back in time where history comes alive in an engaging setting. Enjoy a day at the museum and take home a piece of Maine's rich heritage. 

Boothbay Railway Village Museum

Nestled in the picturesque community of Southport, Maine, the Southport General Store and Barn is a quintessential New England destination offering a delightful blend of shopping and charm. Perfectly located on Hendricks Hill Road, this family-friendly establishment welcomes both locals and tourists to explore its unique array of goods and the warm ambiance it exudes.

The general store is a treasure trove filled with artisanal products, local crafts, and everyday essentials that cater to a diverse crowd. Whether you're searching for the perfect souvenir, a quick snack, or ingredients for a home-cooked meal, the store provides a convenient and friendly shopping experience.

Next door, the Barn enhances your visit with its inviting atmosphere. Known for hosting a variety of events and workshops, it serves as a hub for community gatherings that draw people together for fun and meaningful interactions. The Barn's rustic charm and flexibility make it a popular venue for events ranging from intimate family celebrations to lively seasonal festivities.

Visitors can expect a warm welcome in an environment that embraces the spirit of Maine. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular, the Southport General Store and Barn offers a genuine slice of local life. Its convenient location and welcoming staff make it an essential stop for anyone exploring the scenic Maine coastline. 

Southport General Store and Barn

Nestled along the scenic Kennebec River in Bath, Maine, the Maine Maritime Museum offers an immersive journey into the rich maritime heritage of the region. This cultural gem provides visitors with an engaging exploration of the state's shipbuilding history, encompassing everything from wooden ships to steam vessels. With a vast collection of over 20,000 artifacts, the museum delivers a captivating experience through its well-curated exhibitions, including interactive displays and stunning artwork that bring Maine's seafaring past to life.

The museum is ideal for history enthusiasts, families, and anyone fascinated by maritime culture. It houses several kid-friendly attractions, making it a delightful stop for family outings. Outdoor exhibits include the evocative "Sculpture of the Shipyard," illustrating the scale and skill of traditional boatbuilding. Guests can enjoy guided tours of the historic Percy & Small Shipyard, the only remaining wooden shipyard in the United States.

A standout feature is the opportunity to board a cruise along the Kennebec River, available seasonally, providing breathtaking views and insights into the local ecosystem. The museum shop offers a unique selection of nautical-themed gifts and publications, perfect for mementos of your visit. Open year-round, the Maine Maritime Museum is both an educational adventure and a serene getaway, drawing curious visitors from near and far to explore and appreciate Maine's profound maritime legacy. 

Maine Maritime Museum

Nestled in the charming and historic town of Bath, Maine, Markings Gallery is a vibrant destination for art enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. Located on Front Street, this exquisite gallery showcases an impressive array of locally crafted artwork, providing a platform for Maine artists to shine. With a diverse collection that includes handcrafted jewelry, unique ceramics, stunning textiles, and beautiful paintings, Markings Gallery offers patrons an opportunity to explore the rich artistic talent found in the region.

Ideal for art lovers and cultural connoisseurs, the gallery invites you to explore its thoughtfully curated spaces. Each piece on display celebrates creativity, craftsmanship, and the individual stories of the artists behind them. Whether you're searching for a distinctive gift, a striking piece to complement your home decor, or simply wish to immerse yourself in the local art scene, Markings Gallery offers a welcoming and inspiring experience.

The gallery's knowledgeable staff enhance your visit with insights into the artworks and artists, making the experience both educational and enriching. Discover the beauty of Maine through its art at Markings Gallery, where every visit brings a new appreciation for the state's vibrant cultural tapestry. 

Markings Gallery

Embark on an unforgettable maritime adventure with Hardy Boat Cruises, located in New Harbor, Maine. Known for its captivating coastal experiences, Hardy Boat Cruises allows passengers to explore the striking beauty and diverse marine life of Maine’s charming Midcoast. Offering a range of tours, from puffin-watching and seal-spotting excursions to private charters, there’s something for every sea enthusiast. Family-friendly and suitable for group outings, these cruises provide a unique opportunity to witness rugged cliffs, picturesque lighthouses, and vibrant wildlife in their natural habitat. Tours are thoughtfully designed to cater to nature lovers, photographers, and those simply looking to enjoy a refreshing day on the water. The dedicated crew ensures a knowledgeable and enjoyable experience, sharing insights into the rich marine ecology and history of the area. Located conveniently at 129 ME-32, Hardy Boat Cruises stands as a gateway to exploring the wonders of the Atlantic Ocean, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike seeking an authentic taste of Maine's maritime allure. Prepare for an enriching adventure that promises both relaxation and discovery in the heart of New England’s coastal splendor. 

Hardy Boat Cruises

Waterstruck is a community nordic spa and sauna in Newcastle, Maine. We offer a traditional thermal circuit with sauna, hot and cold hydrotherapy and yoga, all in the woods of Newcastle, Maine.

Waterstruck

Join us for four days and three nights of running, dining, and relaxing in and around Acadia National Park. Our adventures will take us through the eastern deciduous and northern boreal forests of the park, on trails carpeted with moss and pine needles,​​ and up bald peaks with sweeping views of the surrounding islands and ocean. ​All runs throughout the retreat will be designed to accommodate various paces and abilities with multiple distance/elevation options offered (runs are also no drop, meaning we will stop and regroup as needed at various points along the trail).

​We will get the most out of the lovely weather by heading out into the heart of the park for runs each morning after breakfast. Post lunch, we will have time to rest, enjoy a yoga session or a workshop discussion, and go for a lake swim. Our retreat’s educational workshops are offered to enhance your running knowledge and experience on the trails. Before dinner we will embark on a relaxed recovery run through the nearby network of carriage trails, and in the evening we can walk downtown for a cone of delicious ice cream or sit around a campfire by the ocean with s’mores and celebrate the day’s big adventures. ​Your hosts will be on site throughout the entire weekend, to lead runs and workshops, provide local knowledge of the area, be an open book for any questions or discussions regarding trail running, and to enjoy the magical experience of sharing in the special community created through the simple and beautiful act of movement outdoors. We are so excited to meet you all!

Acadia Running Retreat

Are you ready to lace up your running shoes or pump up those bike tires?&#x20;

Join us for the Cider Press Stride + Ride at the Bethel Community Forest on Saturday, October 3rd.&#x20;

7:30am: Packet pick-up and same day registration

9am: 5K Trail Run 

10am: Mountain Bike Enduro Race

10:30am: 5K Trail Run Awards Ceremony

1pm: Mountain Bike Enduro Race Awards Ceremony

On-going: Food, bonfire, cider press, Piney McPinecone Scavenger Hunt

Stay tuned for detailed information regarding parking and specific locations for packet pick-up and start areas.

**MTB ENDURO RACE DETAILS:**

**Practice:** Riders should plan to practice ahead of race day, or plan to come early.  Stage 0 & 1 will be open for practice until the start of the race.  Stage 2 will be closed until the 5K is completed (about the time of the start of the enduro), leaving very limited time to practice on it for the Pro categories.  LTE categories should be able to get a practice lap in while Pro's race Stage 0.

Mandatory Riders Meeting / Race Briefing -  time TBD

More information to come, yet expect loads of fun including a 5K trail race, Gulley-Verse time trial, scavenger hunt, cider press + bonfire, and more!

Check out the event website for various entry fees for the run and ride!&#x20;

Cider Press Stride & Ride

The Bobcat Ridge 25k is a 25k trail race on the beautiful trails of the Edwin L. Smith Preserve, with all proceeds going directly to the Kennebunkport Conservation Trust.

Bobcat Ridge 25K

The Cadillac Challenge is an annual bike ride on beautiful Mount Desert Island, culminating with an epic climb up Cadillac Mountain in Acadia National Park. The Cadillac Challenge is everything that makes cycling special. The ride is run by volunteers, and  there's no chip timing and no results.

Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens

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Happening in Maine Sports Commission

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