Somerset County, Maine Travel Guide

Discover Somerset County, Maine: A blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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Somerset County

Somerset County, located in the scenic state of Maine, is a haven for those who cherish the great outdoors. This picturesque region is renowned for its lush forests, pristine lakes, and rolling hills, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you are an avid hiker, a fishing enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, Somerset County has something to offer everyone. One of the highlights of Somerset County is the majestic Moosehead Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Maine. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. The surrounding area is also perfect for hiking, with numerous trails that provide stunning views of the lake and its surrounding wilderness. In the winter, the landscape transforms into a snowy wonderland, ideal for snowmobiling, ice fishing, and skiing. For history buffs, Somerset County does not disappoint. The Skowhegan History House Museum and Research Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich past, with exhibits showcasing the life and times of the early settlers. Meanwhile, the Somerset Grist Mill in Skowhegan is a testament to the area’s agricultural heritage and a must-visit for those interested in local produce and artisanal foods. Somerset County is also home to a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and festivals that celebrate local creativity. The Lakewood Theater in Madison, one of the oldest summer theaters in America, provides an array of performances that are sure to entertain. Additionally, the annual Skowhegan State Fair, the oldest consecutively running agricultural fair in the country, is a fantastic event for the whole family, featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, and delicious fair food. No matter what time of year you visit, Somerset County offers a wealth of experiences that will leave you enchanted and longing to return. Its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and cultural vibrancy makes it a truly unique destination in Maine.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit Moosehead Lake for stunning water activities and hiking trails.
Explore the Skowhegan History House Museum for a deep dive into local history.
Check out the performances at Lakewood Theater, especially during the summer.
Don't miss the Skowhegan State Fair if you visit in August.
Winter visitors should try snowmobiling and ice fishing on the frozen lakes.

Destinations in Somerset County

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

Baxter State Park

Mount Katahdin

Moosehead Lake

Sugarloaf Mountain

Rangeley Lake

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

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

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Somerset County

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Moxie Falls Trailhead & Parking

Explore Moxie Falls Trailhead, a scenic gem in Maine with breathtaking waterfalls and beautiful hiking trails perfect for all adventure seekers.

4.8

Moosehead Marine Museum

Discover the maritime heritage of Maine at the Moosehead Marine Museum, where history, nature, and adventure come together on Moosehead Lake.

4.6

Moxie Falls

Experience the stunning beauty of Moxie Falls, one of New England's tallest waterfalls, in the serene wilderness of Maine.

4.8

Moosehead Family Campground

Experience the beauty of nature at Moosehead Family Campground, a family-friendly oasis in the heart of Maine's wilderness.

4.4

Best restaurants in Somerset County

Top-rated picks

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Stress Free Moose Pub & Cafe

Experience the best of Maine's culinary delights at Stress Free Moose Pub & Cafe - where comfort food meets cozy ambiance in Greenville.

4.4

Dockside Inn and Tavern

Discover Dockside Inn and Tavern: A delightful American restaurant offering stunning views and hearty meals in beautiful Greenville, Maine.

4.1

The Quarry

Experience exquisite fine dining at The Quarry in Monson, ME – where local flavors meet culinary artistry amidst stunning scenery.

4.9

The Farm at Moosehead

Discover local flavors at The Farm at Moosehead - where fresh ingredients meet stunning lake views in Greenville, Maine.

4.6

Best bars in Somerset County

Top-rated picks

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The Quarry Tap Room

Discover the heart of Hallowell at The Quarry Tap Room, where grilled delights and craft beers await in a cozy, vibrant setting.

4.4

Mainely Brews Restaurant & Brewhouse

Savor the essence of Maine at Mainely Brews Restaurant & Brewhouse, where craft beer meets delicious family dining in a rustic setting.

4.2

Silver Street Tavern & Restaurant

Discover the perfect blend of dining, live music, and sports at Silver Street Tavern & Restaurant in Waterville, Maine.

4.3

Stress Free Moose Pub & Cafe

Experience the essence of Maine dining at Stress Free Moose Pub & Cafe, where hearty flavors and a warm atmosphere await you.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Somerset County

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Flask Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Portland at Flask Lounge, a premier dance club with live music and craft cocktails.

4.4

Mixers Nightclub & Lounge

Discover the energetic nightlife at Mixers Nightclub & Lounge in Sabattus, Maine, where live music and vibrant atmosphere unite for a memorable experience.

4.0

Half Acre Nightclub

Discover Bangor's nightlife at Half Acre Nightclub, where electrifying music and vibrant dancing create unforgettable moments in Maine.

2.5

The Colisée Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Lewiston at The Colisée Club, where live music and dancing create unforgettable experiences.

Best shops in Somerset County

Top-rated picks

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L.L.Bean

Explore the great outdoors with L.L.Bean in Freeport, Maine - your one-stop destination for high-quality outdoor gear and apparel.

4.6

Bishop's Store

Explore Bishop's Store in Jackman, Maine – a perfect blend of gifts and delicious food in a cozy atmosphere that captures local charm.

4.6

Cool As A Moose

Explore Cool As A Moose in Bar Harbor, ME for unique gifts and souvenirs that celebrate local culture and the beauty of Maine.

4.5

Indian Hill Trading Post

Discover local treasures at Indian Hill Trading Post, your go-to spot for groceries, tools, and garden supplies in Greenville, Maine.

4.6

Explore Somerset County on the Map

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

Somerset County Essentials

Somerset County is located in the state of Maine, United States. The nearest major airport is Bangor International Airport, approximately 70 miles away. From Bangor, you can rent a car or take a bus to Somerset County. Alternatively, Portland International Jetport is about 110 miles away and offers more flight options. Amtrak trains and Greyhound buses serve nearby cities, but a car is the most convenient way to explore Somerset County.
Somerset County is best explored by car. Car rental services are available at nearby airports and in larger towns. Public transportation options are limited, with some local bus services available in larger towns like Skowhegan. Taxis and ride-sharing services are not as prevalent, so plan accordingly. Biking and hiking are popular for exploring the scenic countryside and smaller towns.
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are available in larger towns like Skowhegan and Madison. It is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting rural areas or small businesses that may not accept cards.
Somerset County is generally safe for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but always remain vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Local police and medical facilities are available in towns like Skowhegan and Madison. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in larger towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress in layers, as the weather can be unpredictable. Avoid wearing overly casual or revealing clothing in more formal settings. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting historic churches or religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and considerate of others on public transportation. Don't expect extensive public transport options. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello or handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't be overly critical of local cuisine, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Somerset County like a local, visit the local farmers' markets for fresh produce and handmade goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area’s history and culture. Don't miss outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of the Kennebec River and Bigelow Mountain. For a unique experience, visit during the Skowhegan State Fair, the oldest continuously running agricultural fair in the United States.

When is the best time to visit Somerset County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Somerset 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 Somerset County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [Hao-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [See ya]
- YesYup
  [Yup]
- NoNope
  [Nope]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No problem
  [Pleez/No prob-lem]
- Thank youThanks a lot
  [Thangs a lot]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me/Sorry
  [Ex-kyoos mee/Sor-ree]
- How are you?How ya doin'?
  [How ya do-in?]
- Fine. And you?Good. And you?
  [Good. And you?]
- Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
  [Do ya speak Ing-glish?]
- I don't understandI don’t get it
  [I dont get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
  [Can I see the men-yoo, pleez?]
- I don't eat meatI don’t eat meat
  [I dont eet meet]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please?
  [Can I pay, pleez?]
- 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 doc-tor!]
- I'm lostI’m lost
  [I’m lost]
- I'm illI’m sick
  [I’m sick]
- I'd like to buy...I wanna buy...
  [I wanna buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust lookin'
  [Just look-in']
- How much is it?How much's this?
  [How much's this?]
- That's too expensiveThat’s too pricey
  [That’s too price-ee]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya lower the price?
  [Can ya low-er the price?]
- What time is it?What time d'ya got?
  [What time d'ya got?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o-clock]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [Half past ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Morn-in']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Eve-nin']
- YesterdayYest'day
  [Yest-day]
- TodayToday
  [To-day]
- TomorrowTomorra'
  [To-mor-rah]
- 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 a...?
  [Where's a...?]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [What’s the ad-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me on the map?
  [Can ya show me on the map?]
- 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 Somerset County

Skowhegan, the county seat of Somerset County, was originally settled in 1771. The area was initially inhabited by the Abenaki people, who named it 'Skowhegan,' meaning 'watching place [for fish],' as it was a popular fishing spot along the Kennebec River. European settlers recognized the strategic and resource-rich location and established a community, which grew rapidly due to its fertile land and proximity to the river.
In 1775, during the American Revolutionary War, General Benedict Arnold led a daring expedition through the wilderness of Maine to capture Quebec City. The route took Arnold and his men through what is now Somerset County, following the Kennebec River. Despite facing harsh conditions and losing many men along the way, Arnold's expedition is remembered for its incredible perseverance and is a significant chapter in the area's history.
In the 19th century, Somerset County experienced a boom due to the lumber industry. The vast forests of Maine provided a nearly inexhaustible supply of timber, which was in high demand for building and ship construction. Towns like Solon and Bingham thrived as logging communities. The Kennebec River played a crucial role in transporting logs to mills and markets, making it an artery of commerce and industry in the region.
The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century brought significant changes to Somerset County. The Somerset Railroad, completed in 1874, connected the northern parts of the county to the broader rail network, facilitating the movement of goods and people. This development spurred economic growth and helped towns like Madison and Anson expand, making the region more accessible and fostering greater connectivity.
While logging was the dominant industry, agriculture also played a vital role in Somerset County's economy. The fertile valleys and rolling hills provided excellent conditions for farming. Dairy farming, in particular, became a staple, with numerous farms producing milk, cheese, and other dairy products. The county's agricultural fairs, such as the Skowhegan State Fair, which began in 1818, continue to celebrate this rich farming heritage.
Somerset County is a tapestry of various cultures and traditions, influenced by its Native American roots, European settlers, and subsequent immigrant communities. The area's cultural heritage is reflected in its festivals, historical reenactments, and local cuisine. Events like the annual Native American Pow-Wow in Skowhegan highlight the continuing influence of indigenous culture, while community gatherings and fairs showcase the region's diverse history.
The Kennebec River has been central to Somerset County's development, not only as a transportation route but also as a source of power. In the 20th century, the construction of hydroelectric dams along the river marked a new era. These dams provided electricity and spurred industrial growth, transforming local economies. The Kennebec River Gorge, with its hydroelectric plants, remains a testament to the county's innovative use of natural resources.