Discover History and Scenic Views at Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory
Explore Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory for an unforgettable blend of history, breathtaking views, and outdoor adventure in Maine.
Nestled along the Penobscot River in Maine, Fort Knox offers a unique blend of history and breathtaking views. Explore the historic fortifications and ascend the observatory for panoramic vistas of the beautiful surroundings.
A brief summary to Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory
- 740 Ft Knox Rd, Prospect, Maine, 04981, US
- +1207-469-6553
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter experience.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning views from the observatory.
- Check the weather ahead of time; clear days offer the best visibility from the observatory.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the park's scenic areas.
- Take time to explore the fort's various exhibits for a deeper understanding of its history.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving, head to 740 Ft Knox Rd, Prospect, ME 04981. From the center of Camden, take ME-1 N towards Rockport. Continue on ME-1 N for about 7 miles until you reach the intersection with ME-173. Turn left onto ME-173 and follow it for approximately 6 miles. You will see signs for Fort Knox; continue straight until you reach the parking area at the Fort.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer using public transportation, you can take the Downeast Transportation bus service. Board the bus at the nearest stop in Camden and request a transfer to the bus heading towards Belfast. Get off at the Belfast stop and transfer to the Waldo County bus service, which has routes towards Prospect. Make sure to check the bus schedule ahead of time as service may not be frequent. Once you arrive in Prospect, it’s a short walk to Fort Knox.
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Biking
For those looking to bike, starting from Camden, take ME-1 N to ME-173. The ride is about 8 miles and offers beautiful views of the Maine countryside. Make sure to wear a helmet and follow safety rules while biking on the road. Once you arrive at Fort Knox, there are bike racks available for you to secure your bicycle.
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Walking
Walking to Fort Knox from the nearby areas is a great way to enjoy the scenery. If you are staying in Prospect, simply follow the signs to Fort Knox, which is about a 1-mile walk from the town center. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for a pleasant walk in nature.
Discover more about Fort Knox and Penobscot Narrows Observatory
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic Waldo-Hancock Bridge
0.6 km
Explore the Historic Waldo-Hancock Bridge, a stunning architectural gem in Maine, offering breathtaking views and rich history along the Penobscot River.
Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory
0.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and rich history at the Penobscot Narrows Bridge Observatory, the tallest observatory in the United States.
Bucksport Historical Society
0.9 km
Discover Bucksport's vibrant history at the Bucksport Historical Society, a charming museum filled with local artifacts and captivating stories.
Penobscot Historical Society
13.2 km
Explore the historical treasures of Penobscot, Maine, at the Penobscot Historical Society, a must-visit museum for heritage enthusiasts.
Hampden Historical Society
18.9 km
Explore the rich history of Hampden at the Hampden Historical Society, a captivating tourist attraction in Maine.
Castine Historical Society
19.5 km
Explore the fascinating history of Castine, Maine, at the Castine Historical Society – a treasure trove of local heritage and storytelling.
Geaghan's Pub & Craft Brewery
24.6 km
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Hollywood Casino Hotel & Raceway Bangor
24.8 km
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Bangor State Fair
25.0 km
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Maine Savings Amphitheater
25.3 km
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Bangor Waterfront
25.7 km
Explore the serene beauty of Bangor Waterfront, where stunning river views and vibrant local culture create the perfect escape.
SK Tours Of Maine, LLC
25.7 km
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Battleship Maine Monument
25.8 km
Explore the historic Battleship Maine Monument in Bangor, Maine, a tribute to naval bravery and a serene park experience.
Penobscot Theatre Company
26.0 km
Experience the vibrant performing arts scene at Penobscot Theatre Company in Bangor, Maine, where captivating stories come to life on stage.
Penobscot Plaza
26.0 km
Discover shopping, dining, and entertainment at Penobscot Plaza, Bangor's premier shopping mall offering a delightful experience for every visitor.
Unmissable attractions to see
Penobscot Narrows Bridge
0.8 km
Explore the stunning Penobscot Narrows Bridge in Maine, where breathtaking views and rich history combine to create an unforgettable tourist experience.
Sandy Point Beach
6.7 km
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Fort Point State Park
11.0 km
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Penobscot Marine Museum
15.3 km
Explore the rich maritime history of Maine at Penobscot Marine Museum, showcasing shipbuilding, fishing, and coastal life through engaging exhibits and activities.
Moose Point State Park
18.4 km
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Witherle Woods
20.0 km
Discover Witherle Woods in Castine, Maine - a lush park offering scenic trails, stunning bay views, and a peaceful retreat into nature.
Wilson Museum
20.3 km
Explore the rich history and culture of Castine at the charming Wilson Museum, home to fascinating exhibits and engaging live presentations.
Waterfall Arts
22.5 km
Explore Waterfall Arts in Belfast, Maine - a vibrant art center featuring galleries, classes, and live music that celebrates local creativity.
World War II Memorial
24.3 km
Explore the World War II Memorial in Bangor, Maine - a serene tribute to the valor and sacrifice of those who served in the Great War.
Cole Land Transportation Museum
24.4 km
Explore the rich history of land transportation at the Cole Land Transportation Museum in Bangor, Maine, featuring an array of captivating vehicles and exhibits.
Bangor amphitheater
24.7 km
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Paul Bunyan Statue
24.8 km
Explore the giant Paul Bunyan Statue in Bangor, Maine, a monumental tribute to American folklore and the logging industry.
Bass Park
25.0 km
Experience the thrill of live horse racing and the beauty of nature at Bass Park in Bangor, Maine, where excitement meets relaxation.
Penobscot River Walkway
25.5 km
Experience the beauty of nature at Bangor's Penobscot River Walkway, where scenic views and outdoor activities await every visitor.
Bangor waterfront sculptures
25.8 km
Explore the Bangor waterfront sculptures, a serene outdoor gallery blending art and nature in beautiful Bangor, Maine.
Essential places to dine
McLaughlin's Lobsters, Seafood & Takeout in Bangor
24.0 km
Experience the best seafood in Bangor at McLaughlin's Lobsters; fresh flavors from Maine's waters await you.
Pete & Larry's
24.4 km
Experience Bangor's culinary delight at Pete & Larry's - where fresh seafood meets grilled perfection in a cozy setting.
Blue Sky Lounge
24.7 km
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Timber Kitchen & Bar
24.7 km
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Hops House 99
24.8 km
Experience delicious American cuisine at Hops House 99 in Bangor - perfect for food lovers seeking local flavors and craft beverages.
The Lobstah Buoy
24.9 km
Experience the best of Maine's seafood at The Lobstah Buoy in Bangor – where every bite is a taste of the ocean.
Seasons
25.1 km
Experience the best of American cuisine at Seasons in Bangor - where fresh seafood meets family-friendly dining.
The Back Alley Bar & Restaurant
25.4 km
Discover Bangor's hidden culinary gem at The Back Alley Bar & Restaurant—where delicious American fare meets fresh local seafood.
Chase's Family Restaurant & Hide-Away Lounge
25.5 km
Experience the heart of American dining at Chase's Family Restaurant & Hide-Away Lounge in Bangor, Maine - where comfort food meets cozy ambiance.
Ca C'est Bon Food Truck
25.6 km
Experience the vibrant taste of American comfort food at Ca C'est Bon Food Truck in Bangor, Maine - a must-visit culinary destination!
Dreamer food
25.7 km
Experience the best of Mediterranean cuisine with fast food convenience at Dreamer Food in Bangor.
M Thai Restaurant
26.0 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors at M Thai Restaurant in Bangor - where every dish tells a story!
The New Waverly
26.1 km
Discover The New Waverly in Bangor: A cozy restaurant and bar offering delicious food and refreshing drinks in an inviting atmosphere.
Ichiban (Bangor)
26.1 km
Experience authentic Japanese flavors at Ichiban in Bangor – where sushi meets tradition in a cozy setting.
Taste of India
26.1 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors at Taste of India in Bangor - where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ingrid's German Gift Shop
25.1 km
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Cool Girl Collective
25.8 km
Explore the eclectic world of pre-loved fashion at Cool Girl Collective in Bangor, Maine - where every item tells a story.
Polish
26.0 km
Explore Polish in Bangor, Maine: a vibrant consignment shop offering unique women's clothing and a sustainable fashion experience.
The Growing Place
26.0 km
Explore The Growing Place in Bangor, Maine, for a unique shopping experience with quality baby and children's items in a welcoming atmosphere.
International Cryptozoology Museum-Bangor Store
26.0 km
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Galactic Comics and Collectibles
26.0 km
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Henry's Bridal Boutique
26.0 km
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Top Shelf Coins and Comics
26.0 km
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Red Rabbit Bazaar
26.1 km
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Out on a Whimsey- Bangor
26.2 km
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Rebecca's Gift Shop
26.2 km
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The Herbal Tea & Tobacco / The420Shop
26.2 km
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Salty Brick Market
26.2 km
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Mexicali Blues: Bangor
26.2 km
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The Briar Patch
26.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Sound Stage Lounge
24.8 km
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Penobscot Pour House
25.0 km
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Carolina Sports & Spirits
25.8 km
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The Tavern
26.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Tavern in Bangor, Maine, where great drinks and live music create unforgettable moments.
The Stage Door
26.0 km
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Hero's Sports Grill & Entertainment Center
26.0 km
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2 Feet Brewing
26.1 km
Experience the unique flavors of craft beer at 2 Feet Brewing, Bangor’s beloved brewpub offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious bites.
Underground
26.2 km
Experience Bangor's vibrant nightlife at The Underground, a cozy bar known for local brews and a welcoming atmosphere.
Mad Kat and Company
26.2 km
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Happy Endings
26.2 km
Discover a sweet experience at Happy Endings in Bangor, where dessert-inspired cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere for a unique night out.
Benjamin's Pub
26.5 km
Experience Bangor's nightlife at Benjamin's Pub, a unique bar with a cozy underground vibe and an excellent selection of drinks.
Refueler Pub & Grill
26.9 km
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The Claddagh Irish Pub
30.3 km
Discover the heart of Ireland at The Claddagh Irish Pub in Bangor, Maine, where traditional dishes and a warm atmosphere create unforgettable memories.
Fogtown Brewing Company
30.5 km
Discover the essence of Maine craft brewing at Fogtown Brewing Company, where exceptional beers and delicious pizzas await in a delightful setting.
Paper Plane
44.6 km
Discover the essence of Camden at Paper Plane, a premier cocktail and wine bar offering exquisite drinks and breathtaking views.