As the days get shorter and the nights get colder, Boothbay, Maine transforms with the help of autumnal magic. The crowds start to disperse yet the area comes to life with beauty and a sense of tranquility. People may associate Maine with summer fun but there are so many things to do in Maine in the fall. The dates of the autumn season change based on who you are talking to. Some people say that meteorological fall starts on September 1 based on the weather. Some people say that astrological fall starts on September 22 based on the autumnal equinox. Many parents will say that fall begins on the first day of school. Whatever your definition of autumn, you will find things to do in Boothbay on this list.
1. Check out the fall colors
According to the Farmers’ Almanac, the best dates to see the fall colors in Coastal Maine are October 5-21.
Ovens Mouth Preserve has five miles of hiking trails where you can immerse yourself in the smells, sights, and sounds of the falls leaves. A perfect picture spot is on the 93-foot pedestrian bridge that connects the east and west sections of the preserve. Dodge Point has six miles of hiking trails. The Shore Trail follows along the land’s 8,000 feet of frontage on the Damariscotta River which is another lovely area for photographs.
Of course, you do not need to go hiking to see the fall colors. A quick drive outside of town will bring miles of beauty. And if you want a truly unique experience, take a scenic ferry ride with Balmy Day Cruises out to Squirrel Island to see the fall colors of the coastline. Boats are currently planned to run through the end of November.
2. Take part in the Railway Village Museum fall events.
Family Harvest Day (October 5) features hayrides, pumpkin decorating, games, and train rides.
The Fall Foliage Festival (October 12-13) has been a popular event for 55 years. Festival goers will find vendor booths, live music and other entertainment, and fall-inspired foods.
The North Pole Express (November 30-December 1, December 7-8, and December 14-15) proves that you are never too old for Santa Claus. Hop aboard the train to the North Pole and enjoy the vintage winter wonderland along the way. If snow has recently fallen, the view takes on the aura of the Christmas spirit.
3. Participate in one of the many other fall Boothbay events.
Can’t make it to Germany this year? Celebrate Oktoberfest Boothbay style on September 28. Hosted by Boothbay Craft Brewery, the evening ticketed event features a Bavarian band, seasonal beer options, and German food. You will not want to miss the fun competitions including the stein hoisting competition, best dressed award, and best pinocchio.
The Pemaquid Oyster Festival is moving to a new location this year. Mine Oyster Restaurant will become the hub for all things oyster on September 28 and 29. Savor a curated menu of oysters and wine at the dinner Saturday evening. Return on Sunday for bands, a shucking contest, and educational exhibits.
Nearby Damariscotta becomes the pumpkin center of the world (or at least Maine) during the annual Damariscotta Pumpkinfest and Regatta on October 12-14. Activities include a pumpkin dessert contest, a pumpkin derby, a pumpkinboat regatta (that is right, they turn pumpkins into boats), a pumpkin drop, and decorated pumpkins throughout town.
The Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens are transformed from mid-November until the end of December each year. Gardens Aglow is Maine’s premier light show. The event coincides with the signature Boothbay Lights celebration. During Boothbay Lights, the shops and restaurants in town are open and fully decorated. Bring your camera to capture the beauty of thousands of dazzling lights.
4. Go whale watching.
The whales in Maine tend to stick around until mid-October before migrating south. The most prevalent species seen off the coast of Boothbay are fin, humpback, and minke. Bundle up and take a trip with Cap’n Fish’s Cruises. They have been taking guests on whale watching trips for more than 80 years. The trips depart from Boothbay Harbor until mid-October and are narrated by marine biologists.
5. Eat all the chowder.
There may be nothing better than curling your hands around a steaming cup of soup on a chilly day. Maine and Massachusetts are the two states best known for the hearty cream-based clam chowder. See how many restaurants in Boothbay, Maine you can visit to find your favorite “chowdah” in town.
Kaler’s has their own taste test option with their chowder flight. When you order the flight you get a four ounce sample of their clam chowder, spicy lobster corn chowder, and haddock chowder.
Shannon’s Unshelled features three different soups on their menu: clam chowder, lobster bisque, and shrimp corn chowder.
Ocean Point Kitchen boasts local seafood on the menu and takes reservations.
The Boothbay Lobster Wharf is open seven days a week until October 14. You can watch the lobster boats unload their catch while enjoying your chowder.
6. Catch your own dinner.
Fishing is a popular thing to do in Boothbay, Maine from mid-June through October. Many fish, much like other animals, fatten up in the fall to prepare for the lean winter months; this could be your chance to catch “the big one.” Striped Bass are a good catch and they are tasty. There are many charter boat captains and guides in Boothbay and the surrounding area that take anglers out until September and October.
7. Go apple picking.
Have you ever tasted an apple that was literally just picked from the tree? That first bite is like a sweet piece of heaven. Biscay Orchards is open daily from mid-September through October each year. The family-run orchard invites guests to pick their own apples and pay by the pound. They boast more than 15 different types of apples on their land. They also have a stand where you can purchase cider, cheeses, local crafts, and lots of apple products.
