- What is Searsport known for?
- Searsport is a pretty coastal town rich in maritime history, with the Penobscot Maritime Museum as a key attraction that tells the story of the town’s past.
- What outdoor activities can you enjoy in Searsport?
- You can take a trip across the causeway to Sears Island for a day of beachcombing and hiking, or head to Moose Point State Park or Mosman Park for a picnic overlooking the ocean.
- What is a popular activity for antique lovers in Searsport?
- If you enjoy antiquing, you can spend a few productive hours at the Treasures and Trash Barn.
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1. Penobscot Marine Museum
Established in 1936 to preserve and showcase the unique maritime history of Maine and the Searsport area, the Penobscot Marine Museum is the oldest of its kind in Maine. The museum complex was designed to resemble a seafaring village in the 19th century and encompasses 13 separate historic (and modern) buildings. As you make your way around the 3-acre campus you will learn all about the tapestry of stories which make up the history of Searsport and her original residents. There are at least 8 buildings which appear on the National Register of Historic Places and a brilliant collection of more than 50 historic small boats and craft.
Penobscot Marine Museum, 2 Church Street, Searsport, ME 04974, Phone: 207-548-2520
2. Sears Island
Located at the top of Penobscot Bay, off the coast of Searsport, Sears Island is unique in that it is the largest uninhabited island on the U.S. East Coast which is accessible via a causeway. Although there have been many attempts to develop the island, thus far sanity has prevailed and the island has been preserved in its natural state. Visitors can access Sears Island via the causeway and spend a wonderful day exploring miles of shoreline and a handful of walking/hiking trails. There is plenty of wildlife to observe and a host of fun recreational activities including beach combing, swimming, kayaking, biking, hiking and trail running in summer and cross-country skiing and snow mobiling in winter.
Sears Island, Penobscot Bay, Searsport, ME 04974
3. Carver Memorial Public Library
Following a very generous donation of books by David Sears Esq. in 1871, it was decided to establish the Sears Public Library. A further book donation by Mrs. George A. Carver greatly enhanced the collection of books and the library was finally built in 1909. The library you can visit today is the result of a massive expansion in 1998, which included the addition of the popular Children’s Room. The library and its services to the community have grown by leaps and bounds since those early days and today most of the collection has been digitized to enable remote research. The library hosts many talks, lectures and events for all ages including story-time for littlies on Fridays at 10.30.
Carver Memorial Public Library, 12 Union Street, Searsport, ME 04974, Phone: 207-548-2303
4. BlueJacket Shipcrafters, Inc.
Hand-crafting fine model ships and boats for more than 100 years, the BlueJacket Shipcrafters, Inc. produce some of the most historically accurate model ships in the world. If you are a hobbyist you will not want to miss a visit to their Model Shop where you can buy all kinds of model-building kits to assemble at home. If you are already the owner of a fine model ship you can have it perfectly cleaned and restored at the Blue Jacket shop. In addition to selling model boat kits the shop also stocks everything you need to get started including instruction books and tools. Once you have completed your masterpiece you can order the perfect pedestal and case from their on-line store.
Blue Jacket Ship Crafters, 160 E. Main Street, Searsport, ME 04974, Phone: 207-548-9974
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Cool temperatures and blooming coastal landscapes.
Captain A.V. Nickels Inn – A historic and charming waterfront inn.
Visit Moose Point State Park – Enjoy scenic coastal trails and picnic areas.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and perfect for seaside activities.
Yardarm Motel – A cozy and classic Maine motel with a welcoming atmosphere.
Explore the Penobscot Marine Museum – Discover Maine’s rich maritime history.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air, vibrant foliage, and fewer crowds.
Homeport Inn & Tavern – A historic stay with great dining options.
Take a scenic drive along U.S. Route 1 – Experience breathtaking fall colors and coastal views.
Plan Your Trip
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