Bangor delivers quite the bang for your buck. What seems like a small city that caters to those passing through, Bangor stands on its own as one of the best places to visit in Maine. Warm summers bring out Summer Sidewalk Art Festivals and Summer Music Series, while visitors can find indoor retreats in winter with concerts in the Maine Savings Amphitheater and photo exhibits in the Zillman Art Museum. You’ll find so many things to do in Bangor that you might find yourself longing to stay.
Winters in Maine are frigid, so unless you like watching a winter wonderland from behind a windowpane, follow the crowds and visit Bangor in summer. Spring can be a happy medium with fewer crowds and the dawning of warm weather. Still, if you can handle the incoming class of University of Maine freshmen, autumn’s fiery colors make Bangor endearing.
Bangor's bus system connects the center of the city to Bangor Mall and Old Town in the north, Husson University and Bangor International Airport in the west, Hampden in the south, and Brewer on the east side of the river. The downtown core is walkable, including a pedestrian bridge that crosses the river. Unless you’re content with paying for taxis to explore the city's edges, renting a car is a smart choice.
Flying into Bangor International Airport and then making a beeline for Acadia National Park or another dazzling destination? That’s a mistake. Bangor deserves at least an overnight. Foodies will love the crazy selection of pies at Bangin’ Whoopie and the seasonal pizza at Portland Pie Company. Nature lovers should flock north to the Orono Bog Boardwalk and Bangor City Forest. From Stephen King’s house to the antique Cole Transportation Museum, Bangor is well worth a proper visit.
