Wiscasset

• What is the history of Castle Tucker in Wiscasset?
  • In 1807, when Wiscasset was the busiest sea port east of Boston, Judge Silas Lee built an impressive Regency-style mansion in the town.
  • The mansion changed hands several times before being purchased and extended by Captain Richard Tucker.
• How did the Tucker family maintain the home?
  • Despite facing serious financial difficulties, the Tucker family preserved the stately home.
  • At one point, they even took in boarders to help cover costs.
• Can visitors tour Castle Tucker today?
  • Yes! Today, Castle Tucker is part of Historic New England.
  • Visitors can join a guided tour to see much of the original furnishings.
  • The tour also provides insight into Wiscasset’s history and offers wonderful views over the Sheepscot River.

Castle Tucker, 2 Lee Street, Wiscasset, ME 04578, Phone: 207-882-7169

• What is the Nickels-Sortwell House?
  • The Nickels-Sortwell House is a stately historic attraction in Wiscasset.
  • It is considered one of the finest surviving examples of Federal-style architecture.
• Who built the Nickels-Sortwell House?
  • The house was built in 1807 by Captain William Nickels, a prosperous shipowner and trader.
• Why was the house used as a hotel?
  • The 1807 Embargo Act, which forbade international trade, and the War of 1812 brought financial ruin to Captain Nickels.
  • As a result, the property was repurposed and used as a hotel for many years.
• Who restored the Nickels-Sortwell House?
  • In the 1890s, the Sortwell family purchased the house and painstakingly restored it to its former grandeur.
• Can visitors tour the Nickels-Sortwell House?
  • Yes! Now managed by Historic New England, the house is open to the public during the summer months.

Nickels-Sortwell House, 121 Main Street, Wiscasset, ME 04578, Phone: 207-882-7169

Activities and Attractions for Couples:

• What is the Wiscasset Bay Gallery?
  • The Wiscasset Bay Gallery is an art gallery showcasing fine works of art by European and American artists from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries.
• Where is the gallery located?
  • It is housed in the historic Wawenock Building, providing an ideal backdrop for its stunning art collection.
• What kind of art does the gallery feature?
  • The gallery features many beautiful contemporary paintings inspired by the magnificent Maine coastline.
  • These works define the naval character of Maine both today and through history.
• Does the gallery have special exhibitions?
  • Yes! The gallery hosts themed exhibitions throughout the year.
  • Past exhibitions have included themes such as Impressionism, Modernism, and Realism.
• Can visitors book private viewings?
  • Yes! Art lovers can visit by appointment outside of normal opening hours.
  • There will always be someone available to show you around upon request.

Wiscasset Bay Gallery, 67 Main Street, Wiscasset, ME 04578, Phone: 207-882-7682

• What is Red’s Eats?
  • Red’s Eats is a local landmark and could be the most famous lobster shack in Maine.
  • It has been serving delicious seafood for over 80 years.
• What makes Red’s Eats special?
  • The eatery is a bright red caboose, parked beneath a towering Siberian Elm tree.
  • Regulars keep returning for the freshest and tastiest lobster available.
• What is the most popular item on the menu?
  • The main attraction is the huge and delicious lobster roll.
• Does Red’s Eats serve anything other than lobster?
  • Yes! The menu includes several options for meat eaters, such as:
    • Hot dogs and burgers
    • Fried clams and clam cakes
    • Crabs, shrimp, and scallops
• Is the food at Red’s Eats fresh?
  • Yes! Everything on the menu is delivered fresh daily.
  • They also offer gluten-free buns for those with dietary restrictions.

Red’s Eats, 41 Water St, Wiscasset, ME 04578, Phone: 207-882-6128

• What is the Maine Art Gallery?
  • The Maine Art Gallery is a non-profit organization founded in 1958.
  • It aims to preserve and promote the enjoyment of visual arts in all forms.
• What types of programs does the gallery offer?
  • The gallery hosts exhibitions, workshops, demonstrations, and educational arts programs for both adults and children.
• When do exhibitions take place?
  • Exhibitions run each year from May through October.
  • They feature visual art in many forms, mostly created by the gallery’s artist members.
• What types of art can visitors expect to see?
  • The gallery showcases works in watercolor, acrylic, oils, photography, and textile art.
• Is there a special event visitors can attend?
  • Yes! The Wiscasset Art Walk takes place on the last Thursday of each month during the summer season.

Maine Art Gallery, 15 Warren Street, Wiscasset, ME 04578, 207 687 8143

• What is the Old Lincoln County Jail?
  • The Old Lincoln County Jail was built in 1811 and offers visitors a rare glimpse into the early criminal justice system in Maine.
• What is the Jailers House?
  • In 1839, the attached Jailers House was built.
  • It now houses several permanent and changing exhibits, including the old kitchen where the jailer’s wife had to prepare meals for more than 50 prisoners.
• Are tours available?
  • Yes! Guided tours of the old jail are conducted by docents during the summer months.
  • These knowledgeable guides bring history to life and share the stories behind the exhibits.
• What can visitors expect during the tour?
  • Visitors will hear realistic prison sounds and see ancient graffiti on the original cell walls.
  • The experience offers a unique and eerie look at what life was like for prisoners in the 19th century.
• How will visitors feel after the tour?
  • Most visitors leave feeling grateful they never had to endure incarceration in such conditions!

Old Lincoln County Jail, 133 Federal Street, Wiscasset, ME 04578, 207 882 6817

• What is Monkey C Monkey Do?
  • The Monkey C Monkey Do ropes center offers hours of fun for the whole family with exciting rope courses and zip lines.
• Why is it a great activity for kids and teens?
  • It provides excellent exercise while allowing kids and teens to have tons of fun.
  • The courses help improve confidence, self-esteem, and physical strength as participants complete new levels.
• What activities are available for adults and older children?
  • Adults and older children can join the 7-Zip Line Guided Tour for an exhilarating experience.
  • The Twin Zips and Giant Swings add to the adventure with high-flying thrills.
• Are there activities for younger children?
  • Yes! Kids aged 4-12 can enjoy the Kid’s Course, which helps develop coordination and balance in a fun and engaging way.
• What are the benefits of visiting Monkey C Monkey Do?
  • The courses provide physical exercise, mental challenges, and a boost in confidence for all participants.
  • It’s a fun and active outing for families, helping them bond while enjoying thrilling activities.

Monkey C Monkey Do, 698 Bath Road, Wiscasset, ME 04578, 207 882 6861