Yarmouth

While only a few minutes from Portland, Yarmouth, Maine feels very different from the city. The only time the charming town ever seems busy is during the Yarmouth Clam Festival each July – a time when locals and visitors flock to one of the state’s best summer celebrations to get their fill of Maine clams and fun events like the Firefighter’s Muster Competition and Fun Run.

Yarmouth is on the coast of Casco Bay and includes the communities of Cousins Island and Little John Island, both accessible by bridge. The town is a popular spot for boaters with two full-service marinas along the Royal River – the Yarmouth Boat Yard and Yankee Marina.

Things to Do in Yarmouth

As you drive north on I-295, you can’t miss Eartha, the world’s largest rotating globe. You can stop by and see her up close if the Garmin office building is open. For fun outdoors, the Royal River Park is great year-round with a 1.3-mile loop trail along the river. The park is also a great spot to launch your kayak for an easy-going paddle upstream of the dam. Visit the 23-acre Little John Island Preserve, great for watching migratory birds and Bradbury Mountain State Park is near North Yarmouth, and is a favorite hiking spot. A short hike up Bradbury Mountain provides stunning views east towards Casco Bay. Sandy Point Beach is a quiet place for some summer fun.

Stroll along the Main Street Village for shopping and admire the clapboard-lined buildings and welcoming storefronts.

Where to Stay in Yarmouth

Yarmouth is close to both Freeport and Portland, so the nearby lodging options are endless. You can find cozy inns and B&Bs or full-service hotels just a few minutes away.

Restaurants in Yarmouth

For a small community, Yarmouth is full of great dining options. The Royal River Grill House offers delicious farm-to-table cuisine from lobster rolls to truffle fries. Gather is the perfect spot for a special meal prepared by one of Maine’s top chefs, and Brickyard Hollow Brewing Company features a creative menu along with their craft brews on tap. For a fantastic sandwich or salad, check out Clayton’s on Route 1. Coffee lovers are in heaven in Yarmouth, Maine Roasters Coffee is a Yarmouth staple, Maples serves up delicious goods for breakfast with their coffee.