Falmouth, Maine Vacation Guide
Mackworth Island Views. Photo courtesy of Sarah Beard Buckley.
Places of Interest | Recreation | Lodging | Dining | Directory | Map
From the coastline to rural inland areas, Falmouth covers roughly 32 square miles. While officially part of the Portland/South Portland greater metropolitan area, Falmouth borders Casco Bay, and this city of 12,000 has more of a Ralph Lauren, day at the country club vibe than Portland. Tennis whites, t-times at posh country clubs and sailing lessons at upscale marinas define Falmouth. In fact, the town is not only home to three private golf clubs, but also the Portland Yacht Club. This is sailing country, and if you have a boat, you anchor it in Falmouth. However, there will probably be a three-year wait to find dock room for your new Cutter. Falmouth, Maine includes the towns of Falmouth Foreside and Cumberland. Stephen King, Maine’s native son and resident horror maestro, has featured Falmouth in several of his stories and novels, the most popular being Salem’s Lot.
Attractions and Places of Interest
If you follow Route 1 from downtown Portland across the Presumpscot River, you will eventually come to Falmouth Foreside. This is where you will find Mackworth Island. This 100-acre park has stunning views across Casco Bay, a small beach and a 1.5-mile walking trail that circles the island. After enjoying a picnic lunch on the island, return to Route 1 and continue north. In about a mile or so you will come to the Gilsland Farm Audubon Center. This is the headquarters for Maine Audubon. A small dirt road will lead you to a 65-acre sanctuary. There are two miles of trails looping through woods, meadows and salt marshes, and when you hear the birdcalls and smell the wildflowers, you will not believe that downtown Portland is only five minutes away.
Outdoor Recreation
Falmouth’s local harbor and town landing is the vibrant hub of its community. Sailing, fishing and other water-oriented activities are an inherent part of the culture. Falmouth is also known for its indoor and outdoor ice-skating facilities. There are several prominent parks in town as well. With three private country clubs and a Yacht Club, recreation membership comes at a steep price. If you are looking for something all-natural and easier on the pocketbook, then head over to Mackworth Island or Gilsland Farm Audubon Center.
Dining
From casual to upscale, Falmouth is known for its waterfront dining. Lobsters, seafood and shellfish are fresh from the boat to the grill. However, Falmouth has over 35 different kinds of restaurants. While many people want the full bib and nutcracker, Maine lobster experience, it is not mandatory. Of course, if you do not crack into that rich and buttery crustacean, you will not get that souvenir T-shirt that says: I Survived Rock Lobster. From American bistros and hamburger joints to locally sourced entrees and ethnic cuisine, the menu in Falmouth has something for everybody.
Lodging
Maine has been a tourist getaway for nearly a century. In that time, the state has mastered the art of accommodation. There are over 500 B&Bs in Maine. The best accommodation choices are concentrated in the cities and along the coast. There are endless lodging options in the Falmouth area. Cottages, motels and inns seem to grow from the roadside like wild blueberries. If you are looking for something elegant and upscale, downtown Portland has a few grand old hotels and urban high-rise style accommodations. However, a Maine holiday is all about staying at a B&B. Once you enjoy that sort of authentic hospitality, chances are you will want to quit your day job and open up your own (next summer, make it 501 B&Bs).
Falmouth Area Directories
Visit the following directories to find lodging, dining, attractions, shops, services and recreational activities in the Falmouth, Maine area.