Maine is best known for its rugged coastline, charming small towns, and, of course, fresh lobster. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll find a delightfully weird side to the Pine Tree State. From cryptid museums to an actual desert, here are some of the strangest and most wonderful attractions in Maine.
The International Cryptozoology Museum (Portland)
If you’ve ever been fascinated by Bigfoot, the Loch Ness Monster, or other mysterious creatures, this is your spot. The International Cryptozoology Museum in Portland is dedicated to the study of hidden or undiscovered animals. Inside, you’ll find exhibits featuring a FeeJee Mermaid, footprint casts of supposed cryptids, and even preserved “droppings” from a Yeti. The museum is quirky, fun, and totally kid-friendly—plus, photography is allowed, so don’t forget to grab a selfie with the life-size Bigfoot statue!
⭐ Nearby Fun:
- Portland Head Light – Maine’s most iconic lighthouse, in Cape Elizabeth, just south of Portland, perched dramatically on the rocky coastline.
- Allagash Brewing Company – Sample craft brews at one of Portland’s top breweries.
Wild Blueberry Land (Columbia Falls)
A place dedicated entirely to blueberries? Yep, and it’s shaped like a giant one, too! Wild Blueberry Land is part museum, part bakery, and entirely devoted to Maine’s official state berry. Learn about the history of wild blueberries, explore conservation efforts, and then stock up on all things blueberry—syrup, coffee, vinegar, and fresh-baked treats from the on-site bakery.
⭐ Nearby Fun:
- Schoodic Point – A quieter alternative to Acadia National Park with stunning ocean views.
- Ruggles House – A beautifully restored 19th-century mansion with intricate woodwork.
The Desert of Maine (Freeport)
A desert… in Maine? It sounds impossible, but The Desert of Maine is exactly that—20 acres of rolling sand dunes, surrounded by lush pine forests. This natural oddity formed due to over-farming in the 1800s, and today, it’s a fun, family-friendly attraction with a mini golf course, a playground, and an electric train that tours the dunes. If you want to extend your stay, there’s even a campground with cabins nearby.
⭐ Nearby Fun:
- L.L. Bean Flagship Store – A must-visit for outdoor lovers, complete with a giant boot out front.
- Wolfe’s Neck Woods State Park – Perfect for a scenic hike with ocean views.
Paul Bunyan Statue (Bangor)
Standing 31 feet tall, the Paul Bunyan Statue in Bangor is a tribute to the region’s logging history. The legendary lumberjack is said to have been born in Maine (although Minnesota might disagree). Bangor also happens to be the hometown of Stephen King, so while you’re in town, you might want to check out some eerie locations that inspired his books.
⭐ Nearby Fun:
- Stephen King’s House – Fans of horror can visit the famous author’s gothic home.
- Bangor City Forest – A peaceful spot for hiking and wildlife spotting.
The World’s Largest Telephone (Bryant Pond)
If you’re a fan of quirky roadside attractions, you’ll love The World’s Largest Telephone in Bryant Pond. This oversized replica of an old-fashioned, hand-cranked phone is a nod to the town’s history—it was the last place in the U.S. to give up manual telephone service in 1983. A fun (and slightly nostalgic) stop, especially if you want to teach your kids how people made calls before smartphones.
⭐ Nearby Fun:
- Sunday River Resort – A top spot for skiing in the winter and mountain biking in the summer.
- Grafton Notch State Park – Waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning mountain views.
The Skowhegan Indian (Skowhegan)
Towering at 62 feet and weighing over 24 tons, The Skowhegan Indian is the “World’s Tallest Indian” and a tribute to the Native American heritage of the region. Erected in 1966, this wooden statue is hard to miss if you’re passing through central Maine.
⭐ Nearby Fun:
- Lake George Regional Park – A great place for swimming, kayaking, and picnicking.
- Skowhegan State Fair – The country’s longest-running state fair, held annually in August.
Perry’s Nut House (Belfast)
Maine’s quirkiest roadside attraction? Perry’s Nut House might take the crown. This classic stop in Belfast is packed with oddities—think funny mirrors, a giant stuffed gorilla, and walls lined with vintage curiosities. It’s also a great place to grab some homemade fudge, candy, or a quirky souvenir.
⭐ Nearby Fun:
- Belfast Harbor Walk – A scenic waterfront trail with great views of Penobscot Bay.
- Moose Point State Park – A peaceful coastal park with picnic spots and ocean breezes.
The Umbrella Cover Museum (Peaks Island)
Ever wondered what happens to those little sleeves that come with umbrellas? Turns out, they get collected and displayed at the Umbrella Cover Museum on Peaks Island. This offbeat museum started in 1996 when founder Nancy 3. Hoffman realized she had a handful of umbrella sleeves with no real purpose—so she turned them into an exhibit. It’s a bizarre but oddly charming place to visit, and the ferry ride from Portland is a bonus.
⭐ Nearby Fun:
- Peaks Island Bike Rentals – Explore the island on two wheels for amazing coastal views.
- Battery Steele – An abandoned WWII military fort, now covered in colorful graffiti.
