8 Best Things to Do in Rockport, Maine

By VacationIdea Staff on July 26, 2022 - Updated

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Rockport in the coastal state of Maine is a seaside, picturesque town that lies on the middle of the coastline. Visitors will find a quiet and beautiful harbor with fishing boats and schooner, shops selling items made by local craftsman and artisan, restaurants serving the freshest seafood, museums and galleries, and opportunities for outdoor adventures. Named by Forbes Magazine as one of the “Prettiest Towns in America,” Rockport boasts a laid-back vibe that makes it perfect for a relaxing weekend escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and the city.

We recommend that you call the attractions and restaurants ahead of your visit to confirm current opening times.

1.Beech Hill Preserve

A designated conservation area in the town of Rockport, the Beech Hill Preserve encompasses nearly three hundred acres of land, including Beech Hill, one of the area’s few bare-topped hills, a sod-roof Norwegian-style home dating back to the year 1913, forests along the lower slopes, and a commercial blueberry operation. Two miles of trails can be found throughout the preserve, ranging from easy to moderate. The Beech Hill Preserve provides easy access to one of the Penobscot Bay region’s multi-faceted and most scenic conservation properties. Among the outdoor activities possible in the preserve are birding, picnicking, and hiking.

316 Beech Hill Rd, Rockport, ME 04856, Phone: 207-236-7091

2.Aldermere Farms, Rockport, Maine

A landmark in the midcoast region of Maine, Aldermere Farms is one of the premier Belted Galloway cattle breeders in the world. Owned and operated by the Maine Coast Heritage Trust, this 136-acre farm is part of the conservation efforts to protect the working landscapes, ecological diversity, outdoor recreation opportunities, and scenic beauty of coastal Maine. One of the most identifiable features of the Belted Galloway cattle is that they look a bit like the Oreo cookies. Visitors at Aldermere Farm can visit with these unique cows, try some delicious food, and take a class among other activities.

70 Russell Ave, Rockport, ME 04856, Phone: 207-236-2739

3.Ralston Gallery, Rockport, Maine

The Ralston Gallery is home to the photography work of Peter Ralston, an unpretentious storyteller that likes to poke around “nooks and crannies” throughout the state of Maine with his camera. Offering the most comprehensive collection of prints by this acclaimed photographer, the gallery is also where visitors can purchase beautiful prints for their own home. The Ralston Gallery also features an impressive limited edition print collection from Jamie and Andrew Wyeth, lifelong friends of Peter Ralston. Situated at one end of the Rockport Harbor, the gallery gives tourists to the region a look at “the real Maine.”

23 Central St, Rockport, ME 04856, Phone: 207-230-7225

4.Rockport Opera House, Rockport, Maine

Established back in 1891, the Rockport Opera House today is owned by the town and brings a variety of entertainment to its stage. In addition to the array of annual events and shows that take place at the theater every year, the Rockport Opera House also hosts many different guests year-round. Along with one of the shows, visitors can also take in the gorgeous architecture of the theater, as the building has retained a good amount of its original historic charm. With its shows and special events, the Rockport Opera House has become an anchor of the local community.

6 Central St, Rockport, ME 04856, Phone: 207-542-3555

5.Camden-Rockport Historical Society, Rockport, ME

The Camden-Rockport Historical Society is housed in the historic Conway Homestead, built by the Thorndike family around 1770. The homestead is one of the region’s earliest houses and today highlights daily life up to the 1930’s. Listed on both the Maine State Register of Historic Sites and the National Register of Historic Places, Conway Homestead and Camden-Rockport Historical Society offer a museum with many exhibits about the local history and life in midcoast Maine over the centuries, a blacksmith shop, the sugar shack, and a barn. Open June to September, visitors can see vintage clothing, quilts, artifacts, photographs, and more.

7 Commercial St, Rockport, ME 04857, Phone: 207-236-2257

6.Graffam Bros Seafood Shack, Rockport, Maine

The Graffam Bros, Seafood Shack offers take-out and a great outdoor dining experience during the summer season, as well warm and cozy indoor dining during the winter months. No matter the season, this local seafood dining establishment is a favorite spot to grab a bit among both tourists and local residents alike. Typically open Monday to Saturday from 8:30am until 5:00pm, Graffam Bros. is widely known for its award-winning seafood, service, and quality. Along with its Shack, the company also operates its Graffam Bros. Market right across the street, shopping quality lobsters all over the country.

4 Huse St, Rockport, ME 04856, Phone: 207-236-8391

7.Nina June, Rockport, Maine

Nina June takes the best ingredients the state of Maine has to offer and gives them a bit of a tasty, fresh Mediterranean twist. The restaurant gives off an atmosphere of walking into a cafe along the Mediterranean Coast, rather than the midcoast of Maine. The flavors, leisure, and style are all inspired by Europe’s Mediterranean region, when menus change daily but are always full of great flavor combinations, seafood, and fresh ingredients. The owner and chef of Nina June, Chef Sara, has come from her acclaimed restaurants in New York City, bringing her talents and flavors to the seaside town.

24 Central St, Rockport, ME 04856, Phone: 207-236-8880

8.Tomi Sushi and Noodle Bar, Rockport, Maine

Tomi Sushi and Noodle Bar has been serving Thai cuisine, sushi, and a few Japanese dishes here and there to the Rockport community since 2018, when Vee Aramthip took over Mr. Wat’s and changed the name. Guests can enjoy a variety of noodle dishes and fresh sushi.

106 Commercial St, Rockport, ME 04856, Phone: 207-230-7315