Cultural Activities - Museums and Galleries

Maine takes an immense pride in the historical preservation and promotion of its arts community.

Photo Above: Twice a year, usually in July and October, picturesque Camden Harbor Park hosts the Harbor Park Juried Arts and Crafts Show which brings together local and regional artists and artisans. Check our blog for this year's dates. Pictured here, a windjammer is heading out of the harbor while the park brims with creative energy during the 2009 Arts and Crafts Show.

Here in the mid coast the options are endless. Brush up on your Italian at a language lunch at the Penobscot School, join a walking tour of the 18 galleries in Rockland's renovated historic district, spread a blanket under the stars overlooking the lights of Camden harbor while listening to the world renowned Bay Chamber Concert. Take in an avant guard film at the newly renovated 1923 Strand Theatre or hear fantastic live music at the Camden Opera House. Or simply pay a visit to the Cellardoor Winery to tour the newly renovated facility and sample some of their fantastic wine.

Exploring Local Galleries

Maine has a strong history of artists, writers and craftsman. The beauty of the rugged coastline invites creativity and independence. Nowhere is this more evident than in the local art and craft galleries.

Just north of the Inn you will find Windsor Chair, makers of stunning hand-carved chairs and furniture, as well as Swans Island Blankets, makers of fine woolen blankets spun from sheep kept in the neighboring pasture.

In Rockport, watch the age-old craft of glass blowing at Prism Glass Studio & Gallery, browse exhibits at the Center for Maine Contemporary Art emerging artists and acknowledged masters, or shop for unique and beautiful hand crafted jewelry in the form of a lobster clasp or captain's ring.

In Belfast, visit Neal Parent's gallery for black and white photography of coastal scenes that capture the true essence of the coastline.

Whether you are shopping or browsing, the galleries in the mid-coast area highlight the incredible talent and and originality of local and visiting artists and their unique perspective on Maine's natural splendor.

Museums of Art, Transportation, and the Sea

Just south of the Inn at Ocean's Edge, the town of Rockland is home to a collection of beautiful treasures at the Farnsworth Art Museum. With its nationally recognized collection of American Art, the museum is also home to an exclusive display of Jamie, Andrew and N.C. Wyeth's well-known paintings and other works.

Another favorite museum in the area is the Maine Lighthouse Museum. 

If planes, trains and automobiles peak your interest, be sure to visit the Owls Head Transportation Museum with its impressive collection of antique airplanes and an annual automobile auction.

For maritime history head directly to the Penobscot Marine Museum, half an hour north of the Inn in Searsport. This seafaring town boasts a rich history of fishing, sailing and shipbuilding. Annual exhibits have featured "Lobstah!" and "Pirates".