Aroostook County, Maine Travel Guide

Discover Aroostook County in Maine: A blend of stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant agritourism that offers an unforgettable experience.

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Aroostook County

Aroostook County, often referred to as the Crown of Maine, offers an experience like no other. Renowned for its vast landscapes, this region is a paradise for nature lovers. From the rolling hills to the lush forests, every corner of Aroostook County promises a serene escape. The county's unspoiled beauty is perfect for hiking, fishing, and camping. For those who enjoy winter sports, the snowy season transforms the area into a wonderland for snowmobiling and skiing. The rich cultural heritage of Aroostook County is another attraction for visitors. The area is home to many unique festivals and events that celebrate its diverse history and traditions. The Northern Maine Fair and the Crown of Maine Balloon Fest are just a few of the highlights that you can experience. Additionally, the Acadian culture in the St. John Valley offers a glimpse into the region's past with its unique language, music, and cuisine. Agritourism is a significant draw in Aroostook County, as it is known as the largest potato-growing region in the Eastern United States. Visitors can tour local farms, enjoy fresh produce, and even participate in the harvest season. The fall foliage in Aroostook is spectacular, painting the landscape in vibrant hues of red, orange, and yellow. Whether you are an outdoor adventurer, a history enthusiast, or someone looking for a peaceful retreat, Aroostook County has something special to offer.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Aroostook County.

Visit during the fall for breathtaking foliage.
Participate in the annual Crown of Maine Balloon Fest.
Explore the St. John Valley to experience Acadian culture.
Pack layers; weather can vary greatly.
Try local potato dishes; they are a regional specialty.

Destinations in Aroostook County

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Baxter State Park

Mount Katahdin

Explore Aroostook County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Aroostook County

Top-rated picks

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America's First Mile - U.S. Route 1

Experience the historic charm of America's First Mile on U.S. Route 1 in Fort Kent, Maine, where adventure and history meet in stunning landscapes.

4.7

Allagash Wilderness Waterway

Explore the Allagash Wilderness Waterway, a stunning state park in Maine offering pristine lakes, serene rivers, and abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure.

4.7

Best landmarks in Aroostook County

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Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory

Explore Maine's historic Fort Knox and enjoy breathtaking views from the Penobscot Narrows Observatory, a blend of history and natural beauty.

4.8

Fort Popham State Historic Site

Explore Fort Popham State Historic Site – a captivating blend of history, architecture, and stunning coastal views in Phippsburg, Maine.

4.7

America's First Mile - U.S. Route 1

Experience the historical significance and natural beauty of America's First Mile - U.S. Route 1 in Fort Kent, Maine, a unique travel destination for every explorer.

4.7

Aroostook State Park

Discover the natural beauty of Aroostook State Park in Maine, perfect for outdoor activities, wildlife watching, and serene escapes into nature.

4.8

Best restaurants in Aroostook County

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Governor's Restaurant & Bakery

Experience delightful American cuisine at Governor's Restaurant & Bakery in Presque Isle - perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dessert.

4.4

Grammy's Country Inn

Experience authentic American comfort food at Grammy's Country Inn in Houlton, Maine - where every meal feels like home.

4.6

Lakeview Restaurant

Experience fresh seafood and American classics at Lakeview Restaurant while enjoying stunning lakeside views in St. Agatha.

4.6

Swamp Buck Restaurant & Lounge

Experience the heart of American cuisine at Swamp Buck Restaurant & Lounge in Fort Kent, where flavors meet hospitality.

4.4

Best bars in Aroostook County

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Lakeview Restaurant

Discover the charm of Lakeview Restaurant, where fresh seafood meets stunning lakeside views in St. Agatha, Maine.

4.6

Swamp Buck Restaurant & Lounge

Experience the heart of Fort Kent with delightful American cuisine and a cozy atmosphere at Swamp Buck Restaurant & Lounge.

4.4

Riverside Inn Restaurant

Experience delicious American breakfast and casual dining at Riverside Inn Restaurant in Presque Isle, Maine, a local favorite for tourists and residents.

4.6

Big Ricks Burgers & Wings

Experience mouthwatering burgers and wings in a vibrant atmosphere at Big Ricks Burgers & Wings, the heart of Madawaska's culinary scene.

4.4

Best shops in Aroostook County

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Marden's

Explore Marden's in Presque Isle, Maine, where incredible deals and unique surplus finds await every savvy shopper.

4.3

Aroostook Centre Mall

Explore the Aroostook Centre Mall in Presque Isle, Maine – where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together for an unforgettable experience.

3.2

JCPenney

Discover fashion, home decor, and accessories at JCPenney in Presque Isle – your one-stop destination for shopping delights.

4.3

Shop 'n Save

Discover fresh local produce and a diverse selection of groceries at Shop 'n Save in Caribou, Maine, the ultimate shopping destination for tourists.

4.5

Explore Aroostook County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Aroostook County, mapped for you.

Aroostook County Essentials

Aroostook County is located in the northernmost part of Maine. The nearest major airport is Bangor International Airport, about 150 miles away. From Bangor, you can drive to Aroostook County via I-95 North, which takes approximately 3-4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus service from Bangor to various towns in Aroostook County. For those preferring train travel, Amtrak services extend to nearby areas, but a rental car or local transport will be necessary to reach Aroostook.
Aroostook County is vast, so having your own transportation is highly recommended. Car rentals are available in larger towns like Presque Isle and Caribou. Public transportation options are limited, but there are local taxi services and community buses in some areas. For exploring the countryside, consider renting a bike or hiking, especially during the summer months.
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in more remote areas where card facilities might be limited. ATMs are available in larger towns, but may be sparse in rural locations.
Aroostook County is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, it is always good to take standard precautions such as not leaving valuables in plain sight in your car and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. There are no specific areas known for crimes targeting tourists.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Larger towns have medical facilities, including hospitals in Presque Isle and Caribou. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in most towns.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly. Casual and outdoor wear is acceptable almost everywhere. Religion: Do respect local religious practices. Many towns have historic churches worth visiting. Public Transport: Do be patient, as public transport options are limited and schedules may not be frequent. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a friendly 'hello.' Mainers are known for their hospitality. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like fiddlehead ferns and potato dishes. Don't skip tipping; it is customary to tip around 15-20% in restaurants.
To experience Aroostook County like a local, visit the farmer's markets in towns like Houlton and Presque Isle, where you can find fresh produce and local crafts. Attend local fairs and festivals, such as the Northern Maine Fair in Presque Isle. Engage with locals, as they often have interesting stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss outdoor activities like hiking in Aroostook State Park or canoeing on the Allagash Wilderness Waterway.

When is the best time to visit Aroostook County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Aroostook County

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Aroostook County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [Ha-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [See ya lay-ter]
- YesYup
  [Yup]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomeNo problem
  [No prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [Thanks a lot]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon me
  [Par-don me]
- How are you?How's it goin'?
  [How's it goin'?]
- Fine. And you?Good, and you?
  [Good, and you?]
- Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
  [Do ya speak English?]
- I don't understandI ain't gettin' it
  [I ain't gettin' it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [Can I see the menu?]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the bill?
  [Can I get the bill?]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [Get lost!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm turned around
  [I'm turned around]
- I'm illI'm feelin' sick
  [I'm feelin' sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just browsin'
  [I'm just browsin']
- How much is it?What’s the price?
  [What’s the price?]
- That's too expensiveThat’s a bit rich
  [That’s a bit rich]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya knock off a bit?
  [Can ya knock off a bit?]
- What time is it?What time ya got?
  [What time ya got?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [It's one]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya point it out?
  [Can ya point it out?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [A ticket to...]

History of Aroostook County

The Aroostook War, also known as the Pork and Beans War, was a boundary dispute between the United States and the United Kingdom in the early 19th century. The conflict, which lasted from 1838 to 1839, involved the undefined border between the British colony of New Brunswick and the U.S. state of Maine. Although no actual battles occurred, the war led to a tense standoff and the eventual signing of the Webster-Ashburton Treaty in 1842, which settled the boundary dispute and significantly impacted the region's development.
Fort Kent was established in 1839 during the Aroostook War as a military outpost to protect American interests in the disputed territory. The fort was named after Governor Edward Kent of Maine. Today, the original blockhouse still stands and is a historic site, offering visitors a glimpse into the military history of the region and the tensions of the Aroostook War.
Aroostook County is renowned for its fertile soil, which is particularly well-suited for potato farming. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw a significant boom in potato cultivation, transforming the region into one of the leading potato producers in the United States. This agricultural prosperity attracted many immigrants, particularly from French Canada, contributing to the area's unique cultural blend.
The cultural fabric of Aroostook County is deeply influenced by its Acadian heritage. The region saw an influx of French-speaking Acadian settlers in the 18th and 19th centuries, who were fleeing British persecution in the Maritime Provinces of Canada. The Acadian culture is still vibrant in the area, celebrated through festivals, cuisine, and the French language, which remains widely spoken.
During World War II, the establishment of Loring Air Force Base in Limestone brought significant military and economic activity to Aroostook County. The base, which opened in 1953 and operated until 1994, played a crucial role during the Cold War, hosting strategic bombers and providing a key defense point. The closure of the base had a profound impact on the local economy, but the site has since been repurposed for various civilian uses.
Aroostook County is home to the Maine Solar System Model, one of the largest scale models of the solar system in the world. This unique educational attraction stretches along U.S. Route 1 from the University of Maine at Presque Isle to the town of Houlton. The model was created as a community project and serves as a testament to the region's commitment to education and scientific curiosity.
Aroostook County hosts a variety of cultural festivals and events that reflect its rich heritage. The Acadian Festival in Madawaska celebrates the area's French-Canadian roots with music, dance, and traditional foods. The Northern Maine Fair in Presque Isle, dating back to 1851, showcases the agricultural bounty of the region with livestock shows, craft exhibits, and carnival rides. These events provide visitors with an authentic taste of Aroostook County's vibrant community spirit.