Things to do in Bridgton:
Things to do in Bridgton:
Many people don't realize just how much there is to do in the Town of Bridgton itself!
In addition to just enjoying the classic architecture of many of Bridgton's 17th and 18th century buildings, the town offers art galleries, musical events, movies, books, and cultural attractions which illustrate the uniqueness of the area.
For example:
Check out local fairs, festivals, and other events. Call the local Chamber of Commerce (647-3472) for ideas.
Stroll through the works of dozens of local artists at Gallery 302 (647-2787) or wildlife photography at Winerford Galleries on Main Street.
Visit the Rufus Porter Museum (647-2828), just 1/4 mile back towards town. Fascinating look into the itinerant painter's works, plus works by other artists.
Looking for some mementos of your trip to Bridgton? Check out the Main Street shops, such as the Corn Shop Trading Company (647-9090), The Cool Moose (647-3957), Winterford Galleries (647-5567), Harry Barker’s Emporium (647-4500), the recently-expanded Reny’s Department Store (647-3711), and many other fine merchants!
Take a hike! Literally, at several great spots around town. From easy to challenging, the Resort has a list of nearby hikes for all ages. Or, enjoy a stroll along the Stevens Brook Trail or through our new 60-acre downtown Pondicherry Park.
Wax nostalgic while watching the latest movies at our 2-screen Bridgton Twin Drive-in (summer only - 647-8666) or watch first-run films at the state-of-the-art Magic Lantern Movie Theater (647-5065).
Winter means miles of well-groomed snowmobile trails outside your back door, or skiing at Maine’s third largest ski area, Shawnee Peak (647-8444), just 7 minutes away. Cross-country skiing fans can use the Bridgton Highlands Country Club grounds, make their own trails on the lake, or use the groomed Nordic trails of Five Fields Farm (647-2425) on Rt. 107.Visit the historical Gibbs St. Museum in downtown Bridgton (647-3699), the 1700's Narramissic Farm (647-9954), off Route 107, or the Spratt-Mead Museum in North Bridgton.
In the summer, enjoy free, weekly outdoor band concerts in downtown Bridgton every Wednesday.
Grab a good book to read at Bridgton Books (647-2122) or check out the Bridgton Public Library (647-2472) or the 100-year-old North Bridgton Library (647-8563) to see what authors or events they're hosting.
Both the Lakes Environmental Association (647-8580) and the Loon Echo Land Trust (647-4352) hold periodic organized hikes, wilderness walks, and outdoor events in every season.
Throughout the year, Bridgton holds many fun, annual events:
Get amazing deals at many stores on Early Bird Morning, the first Saturday in November.
Enjoy the Annual Bridgton Night of Lights, with its Parade of Lights, Candlelight Processional, community carol singing, and a visit from the Jolly One himself.
The Mushers Bowl Winter Carnival brings live sled dog racing, concerts, games and activities right on the frozen lake, plus other outdoor and indoor fun for all ages.
Are you a Four Square fan? The Town hosts the Annual LEA Four Square World Championship every winter!
In May, two churches hold an Annual Plant and Bake Sale, assuring you of having the best plants ready to get into the ground for spring.
The Fourth of July sees Bridgton’s Four on the Fourth Road Race, one of the largest races in New England! This event is just a part of the Town’s annual Independence Day festivities, with fireworks always on July 3rd, the parade on the 4th, and plenty of other activities on both days.
For quilters, we have the Annual Chickadee Quilt Show. For those who love fine furniture, craftsmanship, or living history displays, the Annual Artisans and Woodworker’s Show at Narramissic Farm has been held for over 20 years.
Dozens of artists display their wares at the Annual July Art in the Park event. Held on the banks of Stevens Brook, this fair attracts artists from all over, and includes food, music, and fun for all.
Enjoy a day of family fun, with a dunk tank, live concerts, kids’ games, displays, food, and more at the Annual Depot Street Festival in August.
Check our weekly paper, The Bridgton News, every Thursday for dates of festivals, summer bazaars, live entertainment, public suppers, etc.
