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From storied inns and rustic cabins to Maine’s most charming B&Bs, it’s easy to find a cozy down comforter and a stunning view to tuck into in Vacationland. But to truly experience Maine in all of its blustery, beautiful coastal glory, sometimes the best place to start is with our state history! Spend a weekend immersing yourself in Maine’s maritime past with a one-of-a-kind experience on the bay (complete with ocean views), starting with a visit to the Penobscot Marine Museum and the Captain Nickels Inn in Searsport.
Fishing, lobstering, and port life have all played a major role in Maine's identity for centuries, but the unique history of tiny Searsport has intertwined with that of the Penobscot Bay region since the mid-1700s.
Although this authentic sea village has plenty of noteworthy moments in its past, as the second-largest deep-water port in the state, Searsport is particularly known for two things when it comes to Maine's maritime history: its historic shipyards and the number of sea captains who lived in town when port life was at its height.
Surprising tales of the over 200 ships that were built here, their captains, and how the bay's incredible history weaves into Maine's past and present, can be found by visiting the Penobscot Marine Museum.
While this small-town museum is a bit of an unsung hero, we think it's an absolute must-visit!
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The PMM is housed in a small cluster of eight historic buildings downtown, each listed on the National Register of Historic Places and filled to the brim with exhibits and collections for all ages.
Diverse galleries recount the growth of local shipbuilding, the dangers of life on the water, and Searsport's key role and location along the coast. You'll also find special events hosted throughout the museum's regular season (typically May - October).
Fascinating tidbits, antiques, replicas, and more are all carefully housed on-site and perfectly organized to take visitors on a journey through time. From stunning displays in the campus "boat barns" to exhibits on merchant mariners battling the elements to shipwrecks, knot variations, and Native American roles in the industry, Maine (and American) history truly comes to life here.
After you've explored the museum campus to its fullest, embrace the rich history of Maine's mid-coast up close and personal with a night's stay at the stunning Captain Nickels Inn just a few blocks away.
Rich with history, this elegant inn is the perfect place to escape for your Maine getaway. The breathtaking home was built by Albert V. Nickels in 1874 as a gift to his bride, where the pair lived with their eight children when not on the high seas.
The inn also has the distinction of being part of Searsport's East Main Street Historic District, and one of the five ornate Victorian homes built in town by ship captains in the 1800s.
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The interior is luxurious, welcoming, and richly appointed in period décor; an absolute treasure trove of historic detail. Every room, fireplace, and parlor is impeccably decked in furnishings and vintage pieces that reflect the inn's unique maritime history and splendid setting.
Four-poster beds, wainscoting and fireplaces, fresh white balconies that overlook the incredible coastal scenery… Pro Tip: the suites here offer a few extra surprises for guests! Like access to the private widow's walk.
You'll also find plenty of green space to explore, play, and soak up the Maine sunshine... but the fall colors and stunning blankets of winter snow are just as lovely!
And in your downtime, enjoy the on-site tavern, fireside parlors, wraparound porch, and breezy sun-deck. You'll be thankful you did as you sit back to watch the sunset, just as Captain Nickels himself and his fellow shipmates did centuries ago!
Maritime history and culture aficionados, history buffs, landlubbers, architecture-lovers, and everything in between will find something to love in Searsport! What are your favorite historical sites to visit in the Penobscot region?
Vacationland is full of incredible places to stay. Check out some of our favorite waterfront Airbnbs in Maine!
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