Rockland Maine is among the state’s top cities with some great tourist attractions. It is a bastion of culture and history and offers virtually unlimited outdoor activities, as it is situated right on the Atlantic. The picturesque Gulf of Maine, and more specifically, Penobscot Bay are the backdrop for the charming town of Rockland ME. Regular ferry service operates from Rockland to other destinations such as the islands of Vinalhaven and North Haven. From sailing and fishing to exploring cultural attractions and shopping, Rockland Maine truly offers something that everyone can enjoy.

For a city of fewer than 10,000 people, Rockland offers a surprisingly diversified mixture of things to do. Rockland Harbor is the starting point for many sailing, deep sea fishing, and diving expeditions. The harbor is situated in the very middle of the bay. You can charter sailboats, rent gear for fishing, and generally find all of the permits and licenses you need for enjoying the full scope of activities in Rockland. Fishing is world renowned in these waters, as areas like the Bay of Fundy are within easy reach. Anglers of all stripes will find a challenge here.

There are also a great variety of state parks where guests and residents of Rockland enjoy such activities as hiking, mountain biking, and camping. Camden Hills State Park is located just about ten miles north of Rockland and faces out to breathtaking West Penobscot Bay. Owl’s Head State Park on the southeastern tip of Rockland Harbor offers opportunities to see major tourist attractions such as the Owl’s Head Lighthouse and the Owl’s Head Transportation Museum. One major appeal of visiting Rockland Maine is that all of these areas are within close proximity of one another.

Maine Map

Once you’ve taken in a dose of the invigorating outdoors in Rockland, you can explore the arts and culture of this vibrant town. The Farnsworth Art Museum at 16 Museum Street is a prominent institution that displays an ever-changing lineup of exhibitions as well as an impressive permanent collection. The art at the Farnsworth is comprised of American art related to Maine. The Rockland Historical Society and Museum and the Rockland Public Library are two more attractions in town that are well worth seeing.

There are a good variety of Rockland hotels that accommodate the visitors who come to enjoy the annual events and festivities staged in the city. Besides a variety of Rockland hotels, there are also budget motels, bed and breakfasts, and plenty of campgrounds with all of the necessary utilities.

The Maine Lobster Festival is perhaps the best known of all these annual events. It is a three-to-four-day celebration of lobster, the state’s chief export. The Maine Lobster Festival takes place at the end of July or beginning of August. The North Atlantic Blues Festival is another of the summer’s premiere events in Rockland, drawing in top talent from around the world for two days of entertainment and excitement. Summer is a fantastic time to be in Rockland in general. The fishing, sailing, and other outdoor sports are in full gear and the festival season is in full swing.