Falmouth, Maine

Located on Casco Bay, close to Portland, Mackworth Island is connected to the mainland by the Andrews Avenue causeway. The park is a popular outdoor recreational area for Falmouth Locals who come to the island to enjoy the quiet rocky beaches and the walking trail. You can easily walk right around the perimeter of the island along the 1.25 mile trail – it takes about 60 minutes to walk at a leisurely pace, which makes it ideal for families and dog walkers. Along the way you can watch the boating activities on the bay and admire wonderful views of the island itself and Casco Bay and Portland.

Mackworth Island State Park, Andrews Ave, off US-1, ME 04105, Phone: 207-781-6279

Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts will find the Gilsland Farm Audubon Center nestled along the banks of the Presumpscot River, where it is home to the headquarters of Maine Audubon. Here you can spend a wonderful few hours getting back to nature as you explore the 65-acre property which includes over 2 miles of trails. Observation blinds make it easy to see and photograph a variety of wildlife and children will love spending time at the Children’s Discovery Room. The education center hosts regular public programs and day camps, where you can learn more about the natural environment. Other attractions include the apple orchard, peony garden and demonstration gardens.

Gilsland Farm Audubon Center, 20 Gilsland Farm Road, Falmouth, ME 04105, Phone: 207-781-2330

Attending a performance of the Maine State Ballet is the perfect way to add a cultural slant to your visit to Falmouth. The Maine State Ballet was established in 1986 and comprises 25 professional dancers who bring the joy of ballet to Falmouth. In addition, the attached Ballet School endeavors to instill a love of the art form in young people by offering dance instruction to upward of 500 students, starting at age 3. The Ballet company produces a full calendar of over 40 performances each year, including several shows which are perfect for children – you can check their website to see what will be on offer during your visit.

Maine State Ballet, 348 US Route 1, Falmouth, ME 04105, Phone: 207-781-3587

For thousands of years Native American traders broke their journey to camp in the area which is now known as the River Point Conservation Area. Later, the first white settlers established themselves here in 1775. Today visitors are invited to step away from their busy city lives for a few hours and come and explore a pristine 41-acre nature sanctuary, which is located right on your doorstep. The varied habitat attracts a many species of wildlife including coyotes, beavers, fox, deer and many small mammals. The conservation area is home to several attractive trails which are suitable for hiking, walking, mountain biking and snow-shoeing. Other activities include canoeing and fishing.

River Point Conservation Area, 271 Falmouth Rd, Falmouth, ME 04105, Phone: 207-781-5253

The Presumpscot River is a gently-flowing 28-mile river which meanders from Sebago Lake to Casco Bay. Located on the Portland side of Maine, the Presumpscot River Preserve covers 48 acres near the river mouth at Casco Bay. The preserve is very popular with hikers and mountain bikers as it offers several rugged trails which run both upstream and downstream. The river is ideal for canoeing and kayaking and there are a number of boat launches along its banks. It is possible to paddle a section of the river on a day trip or follow the entire length on a multi-day excursion.

Presumpscot River, Falmouth, ME 04105

The Episcopal Church of St Mary started off as a private family chapel, built in memory of a young girl by the name of Alida. The chapel was named for St. Mary and was thoughtfully positioned so that the sun would shine directly through the East window on the Feast of the Annunciation each year. The church has undergone many additions and improvements since then including the addition of a rectory and a parish house. Today the church is home to the Episcopal/Anglican community of the north Portland suburbs, where if offers church services, daily prayers, spiritual guidance for children and many other community projects.

The Episcopal Church of St. Mary, 43 Foreside Rd, Falmouth, ME 04105, Phone: 207-781-3366