Location: Damariscotta
Top Things to do in Damariscotta
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10 Things to Do in Damariscotta That You Shouldn't Miss
Damariscotta (/ˌdæmrɪˈskɒtə/ DAM-ri-SKOT-ə) is a town in Lincoln County, Maine, United States. The population was 2,218 at the 2010 census. A popular tourist resort area, the towns of Damariscotta and Newcastle are linked by the Main Street bridge over the Damariscotta River, forming the "Twin Villages". The name Damariscotta is an Indian name meaning "river of little fish".
Restaurants in Damariscotta
1. Wiscasset, Waterville and Farmington Railway Museum
Overall Ratings
5 based on 39 reviews
The WW&F Railway Museum: “Rebuilding Maine History” Maine’s Wiscasset, Waterville, and Farmington (WW&F) Railway was a two-foot “narrow” gauge common carrier railroad that operated from 1894 until 1933. The line ran from Wiscasset in the south, to Albion and Winslow in the north, never making it to either Waterville or Farmington. The Great Depression brought about the railroad’s scrapping in 1937. The WW&F Railway Museum was founded in 1989 to restore and rebuild the original railroad. Today you can climb aboard our train for a ride back in time. Trains depart our Sheepscot station in Alna, Maine on Saturdays and Sundays from Memorial Day Weekend through Columbus Day Weekend at 10:30AM, 12:00PM, 1:30PM, and 3:00PM. Outside of that season, during the Spring and Fall, trains are Saturdays-Only at 10:30AM, 12:00PM, and 1:30 PM.
Reviewed By Tim S - Allamuchy, New Jersey
Around the turn of the 20th Century there were a group of 2 foot gauge railroads unique to Maine. The WW&F is the place to go to understand and enjoy the sights and sounds of this history. They are always growing and improving and expanding...MoreWe're glad that you enjoyed your visit; please come again!
2. Maine Coast Book Shop and Cafe
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 66 reviews
Reviewed By astro005 - Rockland, Maine
I stop in each time I visit Damariscotta. I go for the Mocha Latte. While in line I usually spot some baked item that is screaming to be eaten. I'd rather not attempt to eat and drink while walking the sidewalks, especially during tourist season. So, I find a seat to use the wi-fi for a bit. When done I always walk around the book shop. I always find something interesting, though I don't always buy something.
There are tables outside when it's warm enough. A big draw for me is to be inside near the large front windows to watch the snow come down from within the cozy comfort of the cafe.
The combination of a quality cafe and book store under the same roof is not common in small town Maine. Stop in. Take your time. Observe us locals. Perhaps we can inspire you to write.
3. Granite Hall Store
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 38 reviews
Reviewed By SeniorTravelME - Augusta, Maine
We always stop here on the way home for an ice cream after enjoying a lobster feed nearby. The service is friendly, the Gifford's ice cream selections are extensive, and the garden area to sit and eat is relaxing. Though we only stop for the ice cream, the attached store has great gifts and novelty items.
4. Split Rock Distilling
Overall Ratings
5 based on 15 reviews
Reviewed By Boston-Travel-Diva - Boston, MA
The highlight of a drizzly day. Nothing better to warm you up than sampling Maine crafted bourbon! We had a fascinating visit at Split Rock Stilling and learned they are the first (and only) fully organic distillery in Maine - sourcing their ingredients from local New England farms. Highlights included their very popular Organic Blueberry Vodka and Horseradish Vodka that was inspired by nearby Damariscotta River oysters - what a pairing. Got to try their signature cocktail on a warm summer day - blueberry vodka and lemonade!
5. The Walpole Barn
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7 reviews
Reviewed By jrjojo - Washington DC, District of Columbia
When on the Pemaquid Peninsula make the Walpole Barn a Must Visit. A great selection of wines, cheeses, snacks, sausage, beers and arts and crafts will leave you asking for more. Owner Warren will top off your shopping with tales both tall and small. The occasional wine tasting on the Barn's lovely grounds is a can't miss.
6. Castle Tucker
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 53 reviews
1807 mansion maintained by Historic New England; extraordinary furnishings and design details.
Reviewed By Etsie - New Hampshire
We had a fantastic guide on our visit - totally knowledgeable about the house, the family and all of the history which was fascinating
The house itself is very interesting in design and how it was built. Most interesting central stairway we have ever come across.
Great view of the harbor as well. The surrounding neighborhood is worth seeing as well.
7. Glidden Point Oyster Farms
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 26 reviews
Reviewed By Travelling2havefun - Dade City, Florida
This place has the best oysters. Even has tables to sit and enjoy if you like. The selects are HUGE! and tasty. Great lobsters and steamers too. Family owned and operated. They ship too.
8. Damariscotta River Cruises
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 48 reviews
Teciani, The RiverTripper, is a comfortable, 50-foot passenger boat cruising the tidal waters of the Damariscotta River. Featuring a full bar and the world-famous oysters of midcoast Maine, Teciani offers aquaculture and historic tours, sunset and music cruises daily, and is available for private parties and functions. Sailing from Damariscotta.
Reviewed By ooonor - Brunswick, Maine
Three of us took this cruise today. We could not have been happier with Chip and Olga, the captain and mate of a beautifully decorated, comfortable, and spotlessly clean river boat. Chip's wry wit and Olga's warmth made the trip more than just an educational experience on a beautiful river; they made it special and memorable.
We took detours for eagles and harbor seals, and were greeted warmly by most of the working oystermen we passed as Chip narrated and taught us about both kinds of oyster farming, distinguished between farming and gardening, threw in some lessons on navigation and the unique makeup of the Damariscotta river, and much much more. Unfortunately we had just had lunch, or we might have enjoyed the sampling of Oysters from several of the local Oyster farmers, but some of the guests on board did partake, and looked quite satisfied.
I'll say just a bit more about the boat, because it is truly special. Comfortable cushions line the benches, a blanket with more cushions covers a large sitting area protected from the wind, and extra blankets are supplied for those of us who forget windbreakers. The aesthetics are almost Wes Anderson quality (i.e., downright artistic).
Overall, a joy to spend a beautiful couple of hours with on a sunny afternoon. We will bring more friends and relatives when we get a chance.
9. Oxbow Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 17 reviews
Reviewed By C B - Pennsylvania
Off the beaten path, this is a dynamite brewery. They have now opened another location in Portland, which is cool, but this place is great. Out in the woods, it looks like they really have some fun events, unfortunately we have not been here for them. The beer is delicious!!! Get some!
10. Midcoast Kayak
Overall Ratings
5 based on 25 reviews
At Midcoast Kayak we offer kayaking and stand up paddleboard tours, rentals and instruction on Muscongus Bay and the beautiful Damariscotta River Estuary. Our retail store is conveniently located in downtown Damariscotta and our touring base is located in Bremen, two miles north of Round Pond Village. Meet at our harbor location for full and half day sea kayak eco-tours, including Sunset Tours daily. Join a class taught by an ACA Certified Instructor. Family fun, beautiful sights, and a friendly learning environment await you at Midcoast Kayak!
Reviewed By 128TMaj128 - Portland
Kayaking around Muscongus Bay with Chris, the guide from Midcoast Kayak, was a lot of fun. He was very knowledgeable about both the regional history and the wildlife. Moreover, he was well equipped and prepared for emergencies (though none happened). He knew just where to take us for the best view of the local bald eagle; moreover, we were fortunate to spot osprey, herons, seals, loons, and several other critters. He took us to the wreckage of a schooner and provided us with both history and rumor about its life and death.
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