Review Topic:  Sights & Attractions

Wiscasset is known as “The Prettiest Village in Maine” as the sign boasts as you enter the town. I must say that I would have to agree. On our recent visit to Maine, we drove along Highway 1 up the Maine coast and just happened upon Wiscasset.

It was a beautiful sunny day and as we approached this lovely town, we just had to stop. The town is absolutely charming with its brick sidewalks and many antique shops, art galleries and specialty shops. Along the tree-lined streets are handsome sea captains’ homes dating from the late 1700’s and early 1800’s, as well as quaint churches with old graveyards.

Wiscasset was settled in 1663 on the banks of the Sheepscot River. It was incorporated in 1760 and became the county seat in 1794. Since 1973, Wiscasset has been listed in the National Register as a historic district.

The harbor was once the largest working harbor east of Boston. Today it is the second deepest harbor in the state and is home to local fishermen and recreational boaters.

Located in Wiscasset is the Maine Coast Railroad. The scenic train ride makes a 1 ˝ hour round trip to Bath in one direction and Newcastle/Damariscotta in the other. I did not take the train ride, but did see the train in town. I think it would be an enjoyable experience. Trains depart at 11:00am and 2:00pm (subject to change), daily in the summer and weekends in spring and fall. For information, call 1-800-795-5404.

In Wiscasset you will also find the Lincoln County Museum in the Old Jail. Here you will see how the prisoners and public servants lived in days gone by. Used as the state prison until 1824, these walls harbored criminals, debtors and the insane for 104 years. The museum is only open in the summer, weekends only in June.

For music box lovers, a must visit place would be The Musical Wonder House, displaying over 1,000 music boxes, including some rare and antique models. The music boxes are displayed in 4 rooms and admission is charged by the room. There is a gift shop here as well. Open daily, June through mid-October. Located at 18 High Street, Wiscasset, Maine. Telephone: 207-882-7163.

As is usual for New England, there are several B & Bs and Inns in the Wiscasset area. There are a few restaurants and cafes to choose from, many featuring local seafood.

Wiscasset is a lovely small town and makes a wonderful stop on the way to nearby Boothbay Harbor. I’m certainly glad we happened upon “The Prettiest Village in Maine”.

For tourist information, contact the Wiscasset Regional Business Association; 207-882-9617.




Recommended: Yes