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Presque Isle, Maine: Where Fun is Always in the Forecast – Best Things to Do and Places to Visit!
Are you planning a trip to Presque Isle, Maine? This charming town nestled among the hills and forests of Northern Maine offers a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From outdoor adventures to unique cultural experiences, there is something for everyone in Presque Isle.
If you love the great outdoors, Presque Isle has plenty to offer. Aroostook State Park is a gem of Maine, and it allows for plenty of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, skiing, or snowshoeing. It’s a great destination for anyone that loves outdoor fun. The Nordic Heritage Outdoor Center is an amazing place for those looking to experience Maine’s best outdoor recreation all year. Guests can purchase a trail pass and enjoy over 20 miles of trails for mountain biking or skiing and over 25 miles of hiking trails.
Whether you’re interested in historical highlights, academic avenues, food and drink, shopping and entertainment, space and science, wildlife and nature, or local landmarks, Presque Isle has something for you. Keep reading to discover the best and fun things to do and places to visit in Presque Isle, Maine.
Key Takeaways
- Presque Isle, Maine offers a plethora of activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy.
- Aroostook State Park and the Nordic Heritage Outdoor Center are great destinations for outdoor fun.
- Whether you’re interested in history, academics, food, shopping, or nature, Presque Isle has something for you.
The Great Outdoors
Presque Isle is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its vast wilderness, beautiful lakes, and scenic trails, there’s no shortage of activities to keep you busy. Here are some of the best outdoor activities to do in Presque Isle.
Aroostook State Park
Aroostook State Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors. It’s a gem of Maine, and it allows for plenty of outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, skiing or snowshoeing. The campsites are clean and well-maintained, with all the facilities you might need for a good time.
Hiking and Camping
Presque Isle has some of the best hiking trails in the state. From the Scopan Public Reserved Land to the Scopan Mountain, there’s a trail for every level of hiker. You can also camp in the beautiful Mantle Lake Park, where you’ll find a peaceful spot to pitch your tent and enjoy the great outdoors.
Water Adventures
If you’re a fan of water activities, then Presque Isle is the perfect destination for you. The Aroostook River is a great spot for kayaking and canoeing, and there are plenty of places to swim and fish. You can also rent a boat and spend the day exploring the beautiful lakes in the area.
Winter Sports
Presque Isle is a winter wonderland, and there are plenty of winter sports to enjoy. Skiing and snowboarding are popular activities at the Quoggy Jo Ski Center, and there are also trails for snowshoeing and snowmobiling. So, pack your warmest clothes and get ready for some winter fun!
In conclusion, Presque Isle is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing camping trip or an adrenaline-fueled adventure, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful corner of Maine. So, get outside and explore all that Presque Isle has to offer!
Historical Highlights
Presque Isle has a rich history and a visit to the town is incomplete without exploring its historical highlights. Here are a few places you should definitely check out:
Presque Isle Historical Society
If you are a history buff, you will love the Presque Isle Historical Society. The society is dedicated to preserving the town’s history and has a museum that houses artifacts and exhibits related to the town’s past. The museum is located in the 1875 Vera Estey House Museum, which is a historic building in itself. You will get to see exhibits related to the Aroostook War, the British settlers, and much more.
The Northern Maine Museum of Science
The Northern Maine Museum of Science is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and technology. The museum has exhibits related to aviation history, the trans-Atlantic crossing, and much more. You can also see a replica of the Double Eagle II balloon, which was the first balloon to cross the Atlantic Ocean.
Double Eagle II Balloon Site
Speaking of the Double Eagle II balloon, did you know that the balloon was launched from Presque Isle? The site where the balloon was launched is now a historic site and is definitely worth a visit. You can learn about the history of the balloon and its crew, including Dennis Fairbanks, who was a part of the crew.
Whether you are interested in history, science, or just want to learn something new, Presque Isle has something to offer. Make sure to check out the Presque Isle Historical Society, the Northern Maine Museum of Science, and the Double Eagle II Balloon Site to get a glimpse into the town’s past.
Academic Avenues
Are you a student or just looking for some intellectual stimulation on your trip to Presque Isle? You’re in luck! The town is home to two great universities, each with its own unique offerings.
University of Maine at Presque Isle
The University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI) is a small, public university with a big focus on personalized education. With an average class size of just 15 students, you’ll get plenty of one-on-one attention from your professors. Plus, the campus is located in the heart of Presque Isle, so you’ll have easy access to all the town has to offer.
One of the highlights of UMPI is its Maine School of Business, which offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like accounting, management, and entrepreneurship. The school also hosts regular events and workshops to help students develop their professional skills.
Husson University
Husson University is a private university with a campus in Bangor, just a short drive from Presque Isle. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like business, education, healthcare, and more.
One of the unique offerings at Husson is its New England School of Communications (NESCom), which prepares students for careers in the media industry. The school offers programs in fields like audio engineering, journalism, and video production, and students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.
Whether you’re interested in business, media, or any other field, the universities in Presque Isle have something for everyone. So why not expand your mind while you’re here?
Food and Drink
Mai Tai Lounge
If you’re looking for a fun and tropical atmosphere with delicious drinks, look no further than the Mai Tai Lounge. This spot is perfect for a night out with friends or a date night with your special someone. Their menu features a variety of tropical cocktails, including their signature Mai Tai, which is a must-try.
But it’s not just the drinks that are worth visiting for. The Mai Tai Lounge also offers a variety of Asian dishes, from sushi to stir-fry. Their menu is perfect for sharing, so grab a group of friends and order a few plates to pass around.
Local Restaurants
Presque Isle has a variety of local restaurants that are worth checking out. If you’re a fan of Italian food, be sure to stop by Gram Russo’s Italian Restaurant. Their seafood dishes are also a must-try.
For a classic American diner experience, head to Governor’s Restaurant. Their menu features all the classic diner fare, from burgers to breakfast all day. And the portions are huge, so come hungry.
If you’re in the mood for something a little more upscale, check out the Riverside Inn Restaurant. Their menu features a variety of American dishes, and their coffee is some of the best in town.
No matter what you’re in the mood for, Presque Isle has plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. And with so many locally owned restaurants, you’re sure to find something unique and delicious.
Shopping and Entertainment
Presque Isle has a few shopping and entertainment options that you can check out during your visit. Here are some of the places you might want to add to your itinerary:
Aroostook Centre Mall
If you’re in the mood for some shopping, head to the Aroostook Centre Mall. This shopping mall has over 20 stores and restaurants, so you’re sure to find something that catches your eye. From clothing to electronics to home goods, the Aroostook Centre Mall has a little bit of everything. Plus, if you need a break from shopping, you can catch a movie at the mall’s cinema.
Braden Theater
Speaking of movies, another entertainment option in Presque Isle is the Braden Theater. This historic theater has been around since the 1920s and has been renovated to include modern amenities like digital projection and surround sound. Catch the latest blockbuster or a classic film at the Braden Theater.
The Forum
If you’re looking for live entertainment, check out The Forum. This venue hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from concerts to plays to comedy shows. Keep an eye on The Forum’s schedule to see what’s happening during your visit.
Whether you’re in the mood for shopping or entertainment, Presque Isle has something for you. Check out the Aroostook Centre Mall, Braden Theater, and The Forum for a fun-filled day in this charming Maine town.
Space and Science
If you’re a space enthusiast or a science nerd, you’ll find Presque Isle to be a fascinating place. Here are two must-visit places for you:
Maine Solar System Model
You don’t have to travel all the way to outer space to learn about our solar system. Just head over to the Maine Solar System Model, located along Route 1 in Presque Isle. This model is a scale replica of the solar system that spans 40 miles from Presque Isle to Houlton. You can take a self-guided tour and explore the different planets and celestial bodies along the way.
The model is so accurate that you can see the size and distance of each planet relative to the others. You’ll be amazed at how small the Earth looks compared to Jupiter, Saturn, and the other gas giants. And don’t forget to take a selfie with the giant sun sculpture at the center of the model!
Northern Maine Museum of Science
The Northern Maine Museum of Science is a great place to learn about astronomy and other scientific topics. The museum has a planetarium where you can watch shows about the stars, galaxies, and other celestial bodies. You’ll feel like you’re floating in space as you watch the stars twinkle above you.
The museum also has exhibits on other scientific topics, such as geology, biology, and physics. You can learn about the rocks and minerals that make up the Earth, the different ecosystems in Maine, and the laws of motion and energy. There’s even a hands-on area where you can conduct your own experiments and learn through play.
Whether you’re a science buff or just curious about the universe, the Maine Solar System Model and the Northern Maine Museum of Science are two places you won’t want to miss during your visit to Presque Isle.
Wildlife and Nature
Presque Isle is a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. There are many places to visit and explore the natural beauty of the area. Here are two must-visit spots:
Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge
If you’re a wildlife lover, then Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge is the place for you. The refuge is home to over 200 species of birds, including bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons. You can also spot moose, deer, and black bear while hiking through the refuge’s trails.
The refuge has a visitor center where you can learn about the area’s wildlife and conservation efforts. The center also has interactive exhibits and educational programs for all ages.
Echo Lake
Echo Lake is a beautiful spot for a picnic or a day trip. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and hiking trails. You can rent a kayak or canoe and explore the lake’s crystal-clear waters.
The lake is also home to a variety of wildlife, including loons and beavers. Keep your eyes peeled for these furry creatures while paddling around the lake.
If you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike up to the top of Quaggy Jo Mountain. The trailhead is located near Echo Lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Presque Isle truly is a nature lover’s paradise. Whether you’re hiking through the Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge or paddling around Echo Lake, you’re sure to have a wild and wonderful time.
Local Landmarks
Presque Isle is home to a few local landmarks that you won’t want to miss. Here are two of the most notable ones:
Presque Isle International Airport
You might be thinking, “What’s so special about an airport?” Well, let us tell you, this airport is not your average airport. For starters, it’s an international airport, so you know it’s fancy. But that’s not all. The airport also has a unique feature that you won’t find at most other airports: a 10,000-foot runway. That’s right, 10,000 feet! You could run a marathon on that thing (not that we recommend it). So, if you’re an aviation enthusiast or just looking for a cool place to take some Instagram-worthy photos, be sure to stop by the Presque Isle International Airport.
Presque Isle Country Club
If you’re a fan of golf, you won’t want to miss the Presque Isle Country Club. This 18-hole golf course is known for its challenging layout and stunning views. But what really sets it apart is the fact that it’s located right next to the airport. That’s right, you can play a round of golf while watching planes take off and land. Talk about multitasking! Plus, if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a celebrity. The country club has hosted a number of famous golfers over the years, including Arnold Palmer and Lee Trevino.
So, whether you’re a golf enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, be sure to check out the Presque Isle Country Club. Who knows, you might even get a hole-in-one while watching a plane take off.
Outdoor Recreation
Presque Isle, Maine is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking to hike, bike, ski, or just enjoy nature, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best outdoor recreation spots in Presque Isle.
Nordic Heritage Center
If you’re looking for a place to ski, snowshoe, or mountain bike, the Nordic Heritage Center is the place to be. With over 20 miles of trails, there’s something for everyone, from beginners to experts. The trails are well-maintained and offer stunning views of the surrounding forests and hills. Plus, there’s a lodge where you can warm up and grab a snack.
Scopan Public Reserved Land
For a more rugged outdoor experience, head to Scopan Public Reserved Land. This 6,000-acre wilderness area is perfect for hiking, hunting, and fishing. The trails are not as well-marked as those at the Nordic Heritage Center, so be sure to bring a map and compass. And keep an eye out for wildlife – you never know what you might see!
No matter what your outdoor interests are, Presque Isle has something for you. So pack your gear and get ready for an adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most exciting thing to do in Presque Isle, Maine?
Well, that depends on what you’re into. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, then you’ll love Aroostook State Park. It’s a great destination for camping, hiking, fishing, swimming, kayaking, skiing, or snowshoeing. If you’re more of an indoor person, then you might want to check out the Nordic Heritage Center, where you can learn about the history of the area and its Scandinavian roots.
What are the must-try restaurants in Presque Isle?
If you’re looking for some delicious food, then you’re in luck. Presque Isle has some great restaurants that you won’t want to miss. For breakfast, try the Crown Cafe, where you can get a delicious breakfast sandwich or a stack of pancakes. For lunch, head over to Cafe Sorpreso for some amazing Italian food. And for dinner, check out the Northeastland Hotel’s restaurant, where you can get some of the best steak and seafood in the area.
Is Presque Isle worth visiting, or should I just stay home and watch Netflix?
Come on now, don’t be silly. Of course, Presque Isle is worth visiting! With its beautiful scenery, friendly people, and endless activities, there’s something for everyone here. Plus, you can always watch Netflix when you get back home.
What’s the #1 attraction in Maine, and can I find it in Presque Isle?
Well, that’s a tough question. Maine has so many amazing attractions, it’s hard to pick just one. But if we had to choose, we’d say Acadia National Park is the #1 attraction in Maine. Unfortunately, you won’t find it in Presque Isle, but you can still enjoy all that Presque Isle has to offer.
