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    Recommended Reviews - Maine Visitors Center

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    Smoky
    Vicky B.

    Popular visitors center but a great stop! Lots of maps and pamphlets well organized by region/city. Lots of grassy area to picnic or just enjoy the scenery. Bathrooms were busy but clean. Vending machines available 24/7.

    Main Visitors Center, Kittery, ME
    Bruce K.

    Beautiful structure that was easy to access off I-95 as you cross into Maine from New Hampshire. Clean bathrooms and lots of info on attractions and accomodations in Maine. Vending machines abound. I thought the "Try water" sign was cute. "Dry mouth? Fatigued? Headache? Try water... you may be dehydrated." Way better than a can of cola, for sure. No litter, very clean. [Review 10011 overall, 1594 of 2018.]

    Cindy G.

    Very nice well maintained grounds. Pet exercise area and 24/7 vending area and restrooms. During normal hours, the visitor center is open with lots of brochures and information. Very clean, spacious, comfortable, and organized. Picnic tables outside.

    Trina L.

    Beautiful location to obtain maps/booklets/pamphlets whatever you need to enhance your stay in Maine/Nova Scotia. There are many people on site to help you as well. Bathrooms are super clean. Large pet bathroom area away from people area. Excited to be in Maine

    Lizzie B.

    Best place to stop when listening to your parent's reminisce about the good ol' days has finally made you blow a gasket. Beautiful, log-cabin like rest stop, filled to the brim with every imaginable pamphlet and coupon. The brochures are arranged by topic (camping, shopping, pet friendly) and by region. There are also staff present who are willing to answer any and all questions regarding your tourist-ing needs. Bathrooms are clean and large. There is a separate building that houses six vending machines, some of which accept card, one of which brews hot lattes. ATM located in the vending area. At least a dozen picnic tables for your eating pleasures, Beautiful pines add a much needed "welcome to the wilderness" ambiance. Pet friendly. Countless people walk their furry best friends through the pines. Best part? There is a slightly creepy Smoky the Bear statute that you can make your least favorite relative pose with, and tag accordingly on Facebook, #StuckwithThisLoser4AWeek, you get the idea. In short, great welcoming mat, for a super state.

    Getting a stretch on the only rest stop in miles

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    Review Highlights - Maine Visitors Center

    The visitor's center sits about 5 minutes after you cross into Maine from Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

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    Fort McClary - RV/Bus turn around

    Fort McClary

    4.5(22 reviews)
    2.6 mi

    During our visit in early May there were few people here making for a quiet visit. There are…read moreseveral picnic tables and a few benches scattered around the property with beautiful views of the water. This fort was active through many wars and then decommissioned while building a protective wall around the property. Huge slabs of quarried stone, partually carved blocks and lots of stone 'chips' are scattered about. There are a few information signs detailing the history of Fort McClary and some buildings have signs that state the building purpose. Foundations of some buildings is all that remains. They have a few cannons on display. Check out their website for information on events and when the fort is manned. There is a seperate picnic grove up the road about 50 yards across the street. A dirt parking lot holds around a dozen vehicles or so and there is an 'RV turn around' area, but no parking for RV's or busses here. One outhouse is located past the end of the parking lot. There is a wooded trail at the back corner.

    A nice outing. The structures are still in good shape, lots of history here…read more Especially loved the map that shows where things are in front of you. Views of Constitution Light (NH) and Whaleback Light, which is actually just a short 10 minute drive away and we went to visit that after! Sign said they officially open Memorial day but the picnic area across the street was open.

    Photos
    Fort McClary - Views

    Views

    Fort McClary - History

    History

    Fort McClary - Car parking

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    Car parking

    Wiggly Bridge

    Wiggly Bridge

    4.2(27 reviews)
    4.7 mi

    The Wiggly Bridge is a narrow pedestrian suspension bridge that stands in York, Maine. Located just…read moreoff of Maine State Route 103 (Lilac Lane), the 75-foot-long bridge crosses the tidal flow from Barrel Mill Pond to the York River. Built in the 1930s, it is believed to be the smallest suspension bridge in the United States. The bridge provides access to the Steedman Woods Nature Preserve and is a popular feature of the Fisherman's Walk trail. Originally known as the "Barrel Bridge", local lore claims that it earned its current name from a perceptive group of Girl Scouts who noted the bridge's "wiggly" nature. When walked upon, the deck bounces and flexes, banging back and forth in the anchorages. Many native southern Mainers can share their own childhood memories of leaping over the edge into the water and being pushed underneath with the current, one way or the other depending on the tide. This practice, as well as clam digging and any other possibly damaging activity, is now discouraged due to the erosion of mudflats. The Wiggly Bridge stands out as an iconic landmark and a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in York, Maine's unique charm and natural splendor. Steedman Woods is also a great place to visit. A nice stroll on the trails in this lush and tranquil forest offer scenic viewpoints and picturesque spots that showcase the breathtaking beauty of the Maine coast. Parking near the Wiggly Bridge is limited, so you may need to park on the side of Route 103 or in a nearby harbor lot, keeping in mind some spots may require a permit or have time restrictions. It is also possible to walk to the bridge from nearby York Village.

    "Wiggle, wiggle, wiggle in your boots and shoes Wiggle,…read morewiggle, wiggle, you got nothing to lose" (Bob Dylan) Ever since I stumbled upon a Yelp listing for something as awesomely named as "The Wiggly Bridge", I knew I just had to make a visit happen one of these days. Pulling off that visit was difficult, because following the address we had put us in the middle of a residential neighborhood with "Permit Parking Only" signs galore. We parked off to the side, held our breath, crossed our fingers, and looked for the Bridge, which was nowhere to be found. Luckily, a gent was walking near us, and he directed us to a long circuitous walk down an elevated path, under the road, and across a marine walkway. As we walked and walked and walked, we finally caught sight of the big green spires that told us we had found the elusive Wiggly Bridge. The Wiggly Bridge is just 75 feet long, and I've seen a few sources claim it's the smallest suspension bridge in the world. And yes, we can confirm that when you walk across it, it most definitely bounces, wiggles, and flexes under your feet. I can also confirm that on a rainy day (like today), the Bridge should really be named "The Wiggly and Slippery Bridge", because it was slippery as hell.

    Photos
    Wiggly Bridge
    Wiggly Bridge
    Wiggly Bridge

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    African Burying Ground

    African Burying Ground

    5.0(2 reviews)
    2.8 mi

    Portsmouth did a great job at paying respects to the Black residents who were buried here. It is…read moresad the originally they did not, actually painful. In 2003, construction workers discovered the site while doing work on the street. They found the remains of Black Portsmouth residents. A 1705 map sited the cemetery but the site was paved over. By the 1800s houses were on the site and the cemetery was gone. A sewer line went through the coffins. The Black residents were buried in the same fashion as white residents at the time. Sadly they do not know who they are. To correct the disrespect, the city built the memorial park that is here today. If you have time, I highly recommend doing the Black Heritage Trail.

    Portsmouth's recently opened African Burying Ground is an amazing combination of park, landmark,…read moreand cemetery. Back in 2003, the city was excavating a street and came across the buried remains of 13 people in what seemed to be a forgotten cemetery with the bodies buried at an unusually shallow depth. It was determined that the people died in the 1700s and DNA analysis showed them to be of African descent. The city spent years trying to discover who they were and why they were buried there. After years of fundraising and discussions, a really beautiful and moving tribute was built to replace the road that was Chestnut Street between State and Court Streets. Anyone interested in the history of early Portsmouth or the Portsmouth Black Heritage Trail will want to make a point of visiting this monument.

    Photos
    African Burying Ground
    African Burying Ground - Houses nearby

    Houses nearby

    African Burying Ground - Symbol - Mother Africa straining to reach over the barriers between her and her children

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    Symbol - Mother Africa straining to reach over the barriers between her and her children

    Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse - thar 'tis

    Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse

    4.0(11 reviews)
    3.1 mi

    this light sits behind the coast guard station in portsmouth harbor and is thoroughly inaccessible…read moresince the plannedemic according to the goat keepers which kind of detracts from the whole "let's go see some historic lighthouses" experience but slightly enhances the "we're already here so let's go have a look" and "do you think the coast guard is hiding something back there?" aspects of the trip so it's almost a push. original tower erected in 1771 was the first light north of bean-town; the current forty-eight foot tower was built in 1878, the focal plane for the fixed green light is 52' up and visible for 12 nautical miles give or take... automated in 1960 the light is still in use and the coast guard still holds title but the 'merican lighthouse foundation holds license since 2000 with the local chapter acting as stewards and fixing whatever needs it. the light is supposedly open to the public a few days each year but not right now because of storm damage and the impending change of seasons.

    With Fort Constitution closed, all opportunities to visit the lighthouse are null. You can see…read moreanother lighthouse at the distance, in an island and maybe available with a boat, but the Portsmouth Harbor lighthouse is not available. You can walk around, go into street that lead to the area, but the lighthouse is not visible from the street unless you go further. Basically, skip until the fort is open again.

    Photos
    Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse - Brian S getting his pics of another lighthouse in the distance! I believe it's called Whaleback Reef Light.

    Brian S getting his pics of another lighthouse in the distance! I believe it's called Whaleback Reef Light.

    Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse - I know you see the lighthouse, but I still just see Maine waiting for me in the distance! Hahahaha

    I know you see the lighthouse, but I still just see Maine waiting for me in the distance! Hahahaha

    Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse - June 6, 2014

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    June 6, 2014

    Point Of Graves - 1705! Absolutely love the memento mori in this burial ground!!

    Point Of Graves

    5.0(3 reviews)
    2.7 mi

    Historical cemetery, close to the harbour includes information on 'note worthy' residents. Many…read moreexamples of early New England headstone motifs. Easy to walk to from Prescott park. No parking in the area. There is a turn style to enter and exit making it *not* ADA accessible. This feature also prevents pets from entering, fyi.

    Established in 1671, this is one of the oldest cemeteries in New Hampshire! I'm obsessed with…read morememento mori and this burying ground had so many fine, surprisingly well preserved examples of early headstone artistry by many local sculptors - it's so impressive that I visited twice during my time in New England! The oldest headstone I found dated all the way back to 1682! There are records of earlier burials here, but any headstones prior to 1682 were destroyed by cattle grazing from the original land owner's cattle, Capt John Pickering II. But there are several headstones still very well preserved from the late 1600s and early-mid 1700s - it's amazing! Another popular draw to this particular burying ground is rumors of it being very haunted!! The first ever house fire to be reported on in a newspaper in America tragically claimed two victims buried here - Elizabeth Elaston and Elizabeth Rogers - and supposedly they haunt these grounds - and their headstones are joined together and very beautifully preserved. It's one of the smaller burying grounds around New England - but it's beautiful and surrounded by a huge park right on the picturesque Piscataqua River - also right next to the Strawberry Banke museum and a few other small museums - so there's a lot to do in the area. Parking can be a challenge as it's mostly street parking but if you're visiting the Strawberry Banke museum they have a lot of parking. Pro Tip: grab a most delicious lobster roll and slice of homemade pie right down the street at Geno's - you won't regret it!!

    Photos
    Point Of Graves - The graves of the victims of the first fire story ever published in America - Supposedly they haunt the cemetery! :-o

    The graves of the victims of the first fire story ever published in America - Supposedly they haunt the cemetery! :-o

    Point Of Graves - 1774!! This was another rather unique memento mori - love it!

    1774!! This was another rather unique memento mori - love it!

    Point Of Graves - 1682!! The oldest one I found - incredible!!

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    1682!! The oldest one I found - incredible!!

    Fort Foster - Whaleback lighthouse

    Fort Foster

    4.8(13 reviews)
    4.0 mi

    I discovered Fort Foster almost two years ago when I decided to explore Kittery. I was looking to…read morespend a bit more time along the pristine coast of Maine and enjoy the sounds of the ocean again. What I didn't expect to find was just how perfect this location was and how the seasons change the overall experience of walking along the beach trails. During late spring to early fall, charcoal grills are installed along the abundant picnic tables so the scent of grilled meats permeate the air and boast of good times. When the grills are removed for the rest of the "off-season", the crowds become much smaller and the sound of the ocean becomes the main soundtrack. But this time around, after missing several opportunities to witness how snow transforms Fort Foster, I finally had the chance to see the magic happen. Nothing could have prepared me for the sight of magical white blanketing this whole area in a peaceful glow. The clouds, the utter silence, and the cold but refreshing breeze that bites deep reminding you what it feels like to still be alive is a magic that cannot be replaced. I love it here and I finally can say that I've loved this place truly through all the seasons.

    Remnants of the historic Fort Foster and Battery Chapin can be found at this hidden gem of a park…read morein Kittery, Maine. Fort Foster was commissioned in 1900 following the Spanish American War to protect the harbor underwater minefields. Originally, Battery Chapin was equipped with large mounted guns and a spotlight. The fort ceased operation after WWII and was left idle by the military. Local residents petitioned to turn the grounds into the park that stands today. The park has great views of two lighthouses and other historic structures in the bay and across the shore. There are plenty of picnic tables and a slightly dated playground for the kids. I was able to climb the aging stairs of the Battery Chapin and explore across the structure, but I had to be careful as there are no handrails and the stairs are narrow. The fort is interesting. There is plenty of parking during off season and there was no admission. (There may be admission during peak season, I couldn't tell). Portable potties are available in the parking lot. The park is a great place to bring kids, walk the dog or just have a peaceful afternoon. Lots of history and beauty to enjoy.

    Photos
    Fort Foster - Park info

    Park info

    Fort Foster
    Fort Foster - Pier to see Whaleback Lighthouse

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    Pier to see Whaleback Lighthouse

    John Paul Jones Historic House - Take a selfie with JPJ himself! (Yes, he's a bit corny, but we  him!)  Photo by Raya on Assignment.

    John Paul Jones Historic House

    3.0(5 reviews)
    3.6 mi

    A nice little museum but it really isn't John Paul Jones' house. The house depicts the history of…read morePortsmouth but JPJ simply stayed at the home but it was not his. The historical value is in the rehab and Portsmouth artifacts contained in the house. The exhibition on the Portsmouth Peace Treaty is really good, they should actually highlight that more than the JPJ side of it. The Museum shop is very small and not much to look at. Overall it is ok but I would rather spend my time on another stop.

    If you're a history buff you will no doubt like this place. It's full of period pieces, great…read morestoryboards, historical charm and provides a great sense of what living here during the late 18th century would have been like. After having toured John Paul Jones' tomb at the Naval Academy in Annapolis and getting a great history lesson there from our tour guide, we were anxious to stop at this house during our recent visit to Portsmouth. Conveniently, it was right around the corner from our hotel! The house is run by the Portsmouth Historical Society who have done a great job re-establishing the home to its current state after what we learned were years of neglect. With volunteer help and amazing contributions of historical furniture and other items from committed supporters, the home really does bring you into the age of John Paul Jones. I didn't mind the $5 senior citizen admission charge knowing that it was going to support the upkeep and maintenance of such a historic place. The representative from the Historical Society provided an excellent narrative of the significance of the home and all that is contained therein. Very informative. Then we were free to wonder at our leisure. What was a surprise, however, was that this was really NOT John Paul Jones' house. Yes, he rented a room here on two occasions during the construction of war ships. I was under the mistaken impression that he owned this house. Turns out that he was just a boarder here. Nonetheless, you'll get a good overview of his life and the significance of the man known as the Father of the U.S. Navy.

    Photos
    John Paul Jones Historic House - John Paul Jones House interior. Photo by Raya on Assignment.

    John Paul Jones House interior. Photo by Raya on Assignment.

    John Paul Jones Historic House - John Paul Jones House interior. Photo by Raya on Assignment.

    John Paul Jones House interior. Photo by Raya on Assignment.

    John Paul Jones Historic House

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    Maine Visitors Center - landmarks - Updated May 2026

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