Damariscotta

Damariscotta, Maine, is a community with a strong link to the ocean that is situated along the Damariscotta River. Visitors can explore the town and peruse the locally owned shops like Sherman's Maine Coast Book Shop and Aboca Beads, watch a performance at the Lincoln County Community Theater, sign up for one of Red Cloak Trips' many tours, enjoy a delectable lunch at Damariscotta River Grill, and much more. The Damariscotta Oyster Celebration in the early summer and the Damariscotta Mills Alewife Festival are just two of the annual festivities held in Damariscotta.

Damariscotta's history dates back to the early 17th century, although the town didn't become a separate entity until 1848. With Newcastle, the little town forms a larger area recognized for shipbuilding, military and nautical history and culture, and the first automated lighthouse in Maine. The small town is only twelve square miles in size. The Colonial Pemaquid State Historic Site, Fort William Henry, Fort Frederick, Fort Edgecomb Historic High, and the Thompson Icehouse are a few noteworthy historic sites to check out in the Damariscotta Newcastle area. The region is well-known for its events, which include, among others, the yearly ice harvest, Harbor Fest, Oyster Festival, Pumpkin Fest, and Festival of Lights.

Location: Lincoln County, Maine, United States

Best time to visit: late June to early September

Ranking: n/a