Are you looking for enjoyable things to do in Rockland, Maine? Whether you are a visitor or a local, this book offers the 22 greatest and most pleasurable activities to maximize your time in this charming seaside city.

Rockland, which is known for its thriving arts scene, maritime heritage, and stunning natural beauty, is located along the picturesque Penobscot Bay. From taking in the vast collection of American art at the Farnsworth Art Museum to savoring fresh seafood at one of the numerous waterfront eateries, this charming city has a lot to offer visitors.

Rockland serves as the focal point of Midcoast Maine and serves as a doorway to the breathtaking islands and coastal attractions of the area. Adventure seekers can visit the Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse, go sailing, or participate in the city’s yearly Maine Lobster Festival, which honors the area’s illustrious fishing heritage.

22 Best And Fun Things To Do In Rockland, ME (2024)

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1. Project Puffin Visitor Center

Visit the Project Puffin Visitor Center to start your Rockland adventure. This center celebrates the success of Project Puffin in reuniting seabirds with their perching islands, including puffins.

The visitor center features interactive exhibits, educational events, a store offering mementos related to puffins, and real-time video feeds of puffins on nearby islands.

A visit to this center offers a chance to discover more about the conservation efforts for puffins, observe the adorably cute birds, and delve into the fascinating world of seabirds, among other enjoyable activities for all visitors to Rockland, ME.

Address: 311 Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

2. Rockland Breakwater Lighthouse

One of the nicest things to do this weekend in Rockland, Maine, is to pay a visit to the lighthouse, which is located at the end of a granite breakwater that stretches for about a mile.

Constructed in 1902, the lighthouse is a brief brick tower featuring a unique red roof, providing opportunities for lovely strolls, an insight into Maine’s nautical history, and stunning views of the bay and shoreline.

Address: 44.104031, -69.077487, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

3. Farnsworth Art Museum

If you’re an art enthusiast, visiting the Farnsworth Art Museum—a museum dedicated to American art—should be on your list of must-do activities in Rockland, Maine, right now.

Within its collection, which spans 20,000 square feet of exhibition space, the museum has approximately 15,000 pieces by American artists such as Gilbert Stuart and Louise Nevelson.

Explore the history of American art with well-known creators and interactive special exhibitions.

Address: 16 Museum Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

4. Rockland Public Library

The charming Carnegie-financed Rockland Public Library offers educational activities for visitors of all ages, housed in a charming edifice.

Founded in 1903, the library features an extensive collection of books, reference materials, children’s section, community room, toilets, and a radio program that airs once a month.

Bookworms can peruse various collections, investigate a noteworthy milestone, and participate in interesting community events while perusing the Rockland Public Library.

Address: 80 Union Street #2925, Rockland, ME 04841, United States

5. Maine Lighthouse Museum

A must-do activity for art lovers visiting Rockland, Maine, is the Maine Lighthouse Museum, which specializes in U.S. Coast Guard treasures, lifesaving equipment, and lighthouse antiques.

The museum offers a thorough look into Maine’s rich lighthouse history through its exhibits of important lighthouse lenses, foghorns, lightships, and various marine rescue tools.

Discover Maine’s maritime past, peruse the fascinating relics, and discover the lives of lighthouse keepers.

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Address: 1 Park Drive, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

6. Center For Maine Contemporary Park

Touring the Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA), Among the fun things to do in Rockland, ME, for people of all ages, is to visit a premier modern art gallery featuring pieces by up-and-coming and well-known artists.

CMCA was founded in 1952 and features a variety of exhibitions, stunning architecture, a superb gallery area, a museum store selling products relating to Maine-made art, and robust educational initiatives.

You may experience and learn about modern art, see thought-provoking exhibitions, pick up unique souvenirs from the shop, and take part in educational events by taking a tour of the CMCA.

Address: 21 Winter Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

7. Jess’s Market

Shopping at Jess’s Market, A family-run seafood restaurant should be at the top of your list of things to do in Rockland, for sure.

Established in 1986, this market offers the freshest and widest selection of seafood in the Mid-coast Maine region, including lobsters, shellfish, regional produce, and foreign imports.

To enhance your eating experience and culinary adventures, prepared options such as chowder and a variety of wines and beers are offered.

Address: 118 Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

8. The Coastal Children’s Museum

Discover The Coastal Children’s Museum, an interactive museum created to provide kids in Rockland, Maine with enjoyable and instructive activities.

The museum takes great pride in showcasing works that are primarily focused on nature, the arts, and sciences, with a particular connection to Maine’s unique coastal region.

Youngsters can investigate a life-size model of a Beetle Cat Sailboat, a real-life “Under the Sea” chamber, and a touch tank where they can engage with aquatic animals.

Address: 75 Mechanic Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

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9. Home Kitchen Cafe

Home Kitchen Cafe is a bright and bustling cafe that serves American breakfast and lunch meals produced with fresh and local ingredients. It is a guaranteed romantic place for couples to go in Rockland, ME.

The cafe specializes in handcrafted comfort food, including well-liked dishes like fish tacos and lobster eggs benedict.

Visiting this café guarantees a delightful and pleasurable breakfast and lunch experience in a cozy and welcoming setting.

Address: 650 Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

10. 250 Main Hotel

Discover a wealth of enjoyable and soothing activities in Rockland, Maine, for tourists, guests, and locals at the upscale 250 Main Hotel, which features an industrial-inspired modern style.

The hotel attraction offers 26 specially designed guest rooms with rooftop decks, art galleries, security, and delicious breakfasts—all of which are geared toward the needs of guests.

With its proximity to the harbor, art museums, and other attractions, this hotel offers guests a stately and stylish base from which to explore Rockland on foot.

Address: 250 Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

11. Sail Power & Steam Museum

The Sail Power & Steam Museum is a wealth of information honoring the area’s maritime heritage, offering entertaining and instructive activities for all ages in Rockland, Maine.

A fleet of notable vessels, demonstrations, antiques, and images of the maritime and industrial world are all on display for visitors to peruse.

By going to the museum, you can participate in sailing programs or events, see famous boats up close, and discover more about Maine’s navigational past.

Address: 75 Mechanic Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States

12. Harbor Park

Discover exciting family activities in Rockland, Maine, at bay Park, a waterfront complex featuring quaint views of the bay and neighboring islands.

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The park is the beginning point of the expansive Rockland Harbor Trail and features a large grassy space, ample parking, and a public boat launch.

Address: 1 Pleasant Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States

13. Maine Lobster Festival 

Attending the Maine Lobster Festival, One of the most exciting events taking place in Rockland, Maine this summer is a five-day summer celebration featuring the delicious local seafood, primarily lobster.

Live music, culinary contests, exhibits of handicrafts, marine demonstrations, a massive parade, and an abundance of delectable lobster delights are all featured at the festival.

Take advantage of the opportunity to sample fresh lobster from Maine, experience the vibrant seaside culture, and enjoy an exciting, family-friendly celebration.

Address: 1 Park Drive, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

14. Berry Manor Inn

Tucked away in a grand Victorian home, Berry Manor Inn is a posh breakfast that combines the allure of the past with contemporary amenities and fun things to do in Rockland, Maine.

The Inn offers king or queen-sized beds, whirlpool baths, fireplaces, dining options, a library, an arcade room, and spa services.

A vacation at Berry Manor Inn offers the perfect getaway in a revered setting that combines modern conveniences, delectable cuisine, and Victorian elegance.

Address: 81 Talbot Avenue, Rockland, ME 04841, United States.

15. Rockland Harbor Hotel

Lodging at Rockland Harbor Hotel, A 3-diamond AAA-accredited hotel need to be on your list of enjoyable things to do when visiting Rockland, Maine.

The hotel has attractive cooked breakfast, free Wi-fi, a fitness facility, air-conditioned rooms with balconies overlooking the port, and a market.

Discover a comfortable and practical starting point for exploring Rockland’s charming downtown, which boasts the Strand Theater, the Farnsworth Art Museum, and mouthwatering eateries.

Address: 520 Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States

16. Harbor Square Gallery

One of the free things to do near Rockland, ME, today is to drive to the modern art gallery Harbor Square Gallery, which is located in Camden, Maine and takes around 16 minutes.

The gallery features artwork by over 90 national and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, and fine art jewelry, in addition to a unique rooftop sculpture garden known as The Muir Garden.

Enjoy a thoughtfully chosen collection of contemporary art in an amazing architectural setting, investigate the artworks within, and take in the fresh air while gazing at the sculptures on the rooftop.

Address: 37 Bay View Street, Camden, ME 04843, United States

17. Suzuki’s Sushi Bar

A leisurely sushi dining experience at Suzuki’s Sushi Bar, a laid-back eatery headed by chef Keiko Suzuki Steinberger, is one of the many things to do in Rockland, Maine, this evening.

Established in 2005, the bar focuses in freshly made, excellent sushi and Japanese cuisine, including nigiri, maki rolls, and other meals made with local products that don’t include any fried or grilled foods.

You can count on a unique and delectable sushi experience here, with a focus on locally sourced, fresh seafood served in a cozy setting.

Address: 419 Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States

19. Rockland Harbor Trail

For those looking for the best leisure activities in Rockland, Maine, a stroll along the Rockland Harbor Trail, a panoramic walking path that connects the town’s bustling center with its historic, dynamic waterfront, is a must-do.

Over a distance of five miles, the route offers sweeping vistas of Rockland Harbor, glimpses into the town’s maritime past, and the chance to discover regional art and culture.

A stroll along the paths provides a peaceful escape to savor the harbor’s beauty, discover Rockland’s creative side, and learn about the city’s history.

Address: Rockland, ME 04841, United States

20. Rockland Golf Club

For those looking for exciting things to do in Rockland, Maine this weekend, making reservations for a round at the player-friendly Rockland Golf Club, a public golf course located just 1.5 miles from Penobscot Bay, should be of high priority.

The 18-hole course, which is 6, 041 yards long, with 118 slopes, and a par of 70, is a great choice for players of all skill levels because of its superb conditions, friendly staff, and reasonable fees.

Playing at Rockland Golf Club gives players access to an affordable, well-maintained course in a beautiful setting.

Address: 606 Old County Road, Rockland, ME 04841, United States

21. Primo Restaurant

Satisfy your appetite at Primo Restaurant, a posh restaurant known for its delicious Italian cuisine and farm-to-table philosophy. It should be on your list of things to do when visiting Rockland, Maine, right now.

The majority of the products for the restaurant’s menu are sourced from a nearly five-acre sustainable farm, which houses a full-circle kitchen. In addition, they cultivate flowers and vegetables and breed cattle.

Savor delicious Italian fare that is sourced locally in a charming setting that places a high value on environmental sustainability.

Address: 2 Main Street, Rockland, ME 04841, United States

22. Oakland Park Bowling Lanes

You may find enjoyable family activities close to Rockland, Maine, at Oakland Park Bowling Lanes, a typical candlepin bowling alley, which is 8 minutes’ drive from Rockport.

Featuring eighteen lanes, the bowling attraction offers candlepin bowling, a New England tradition that uses smaller pins and balls than regular bowling.

Visitors can experience a historic setting, engage in an exciting and unique game, and enjoy bowling with loved ones at Oakland Park Bowling.

Address: 732 Commercial Street, Rockport, ME 04856, United States

23. Trapt Escape Rooms

Find exciting and fascinating family-friendly activities close to Rockland, Maine, at Trapt Escape Rooms, a fun activity facility that is only nine minutes’ drive from Rockport, Maine.

Six unique escape rooms with varying degrees of difficulty are offered by the escape room destination, together with a fully equipped arcade, pool tables, and a snack bar serving beers brewed locally.

In an entertaining themed escape room, try your ability to work as a team and solve problems while having fun with games and drinks.

Address: 461 Commercial Street, Rockport, ME 04856, United States