Guide to The Best Inns, Cabins, and Campsites in Dexter Maine
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Nestled in the Maine Highlands region, Dexter Maine is a charming rural town situated along the Moosehead Trail, offering scenic beauty and a tranquil atmosphere. Its location near Lake Wassookeag provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including swimming, boating, and fishing.
Also, the town is a perfect base for exploring the area’s natural attractions, such as Peaks Kenny State Park on Sebec Lake and various hiking trails. Combined with its rich history and community spirit, Dexter’s small-town charm makes it an appealing destination for Mainers and those from away.
Know Your Lodging Options in Dexter Maine
Dexter offers a variety of lodging options to suit different preferences. Visitors can enjoy charming bed and breakfasts like The Brewster Inn and rustic cabins near Lake Wassookeag. These accommodations provide a comfortable base for exploring the scenic Maine Highlands and enjoying local outdoor activities.
Maine Highlands lodging specials and packages can help visitors save money on their getaways.
Featured Dexter Maine Lodging
Getting to Know the Dexter Maine Area
In the center of Maine, Dexter offers diverse activities that highlight its New England charm. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures or local culture, the town has something for everyone. It’s also a great base for exploring the greater area.
Lake Activities
For those who love the great outdoors, Dexter is a paradise. Lake Wassookeag provides a perfect setting for swimming from a public beach, boating, and fishing. The lake’s pristine waters and scenic surroundings make it a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
For a unique fishing experience, consider booking a trip with Leviathan Fishing Adventures. This service offers guided fishing trips on local lakes and rivers, providing a scenic and exciting way to spend the day.
Outdoor Adventures
The Interconnected Trail System is part of a vast network of well-maintained and clearly marked snowmobile trails that span across the state. In Dexter, the main trail connects to various local routes, allowing riders to explore the beautiful winter terrain, including forests, lakes, and open fields. This four-season trail is open for mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and ATV riding as well.
On top of that, visitors can play a round of nine holes at the Dexter Municipal Golf Course. It even has a disc golf course.
Cultural Attractions
Dexter is rich in history and culture. The Abbott Memorial Library is a must-visit for book lovers and history buffs alike. This beautiful library often hosts events and exhibitions that delve into the town’s past. Another historical gem is the Grist Mill Museum Campus, which offers a glimpse into Dexter’s industrial heritage. The Carr Schoolhouse is also nearby, while the Abbott Museum & Gift Shop is just a half-mile north — both offering insights into the areas history.
Also, a portion of Dexter’s downtown is featured on the cover of Stephen King’s novel “Needful Things.” It appears in the “Hitchhiker” segment of “Creepshow 2” as well, along with nearby Dover-Foxcroft. Furthermore, the film “Graveyard Shift” was shot in the neighboring town of Harmony.
Shopping
Dexter offers charming local shopping experiences, such as the Dexter Kiwanis Thrift Shop, which offers an array of secondhand items — from clothing to household goods and vintage treasures — and the proceeds support community projects. There’s also a Renys department store, where you can stock up on all the necessities for your Lakes & Mountains adventures.
Dining
Satisfying various tastes, Dexter offers a variety of dining options. The Dexter House of Pizza is a local favorite for pizzas and Italian dishes, while Our “FAMB”ily Restaurant serves hearty American breakfast and lunch daily. For Chinese cuisine, China Garden is the go-to spot.
Additionally, Lakeshore Restaurant offers seafood, burgers, and pizza with a scenic lake view, making it a popular seasonal choice, especially for ice cream. For a super quick bite of fresh, slow-smoked meats, head to the Drooling Goat BBQ food truck on Saturdays.
Featured Lodging in Nearby Towns
Top Dexter Maine Area Lodging, B&Bs, Cabins, & Campgrounds
Inns & Bed and Breakfasts in Dexter Maine
The Brewster Inn
37 Zions Hill Rd, Dexter | 207-924-3130
Housed in a historic mansion listed on the National Register of Historic Places, The Brewster Inn offers a blend of elegance and comfort. This charming bed and breakfast features beautifully appointed rooms, each with unique decor and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a peaceful garden, a cozy common area with a fireplace, and a hearty breakfast each morning. Plus, the Interconnected Trail System is just 300 feet from the front door.
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Taylor Edes Inn
20 High St, Dexter | 207-951-5673
Set in a beautifully restored historic home, the Taylor Edes Inn offers a charming and intimate lodging experience. This cozy bed and breakfast features individually decorated rooms that blend antique furnishings with modern comforts. Guests can start their day with a delicious continental breakfast and enjoy the serene garden, inviting common areas, hot tub, and Man Cave with a dart board, pool table, and poker table.
Cabins, Cottages, & Campgrounds Near Dexter Maine
Exeter Nature Cabins
Peabody Rd, Exeter | 207-671-1260
Welcoming pets, the Exeter Nature Cabins consist of a Main cabin and a Chalet in unspoiled private woods with 3 miles of trails for hiking in the summer and snowshoeing in the winter. The spacious Main cabin offers a serene retreat for family and friends with a fireplace. The Chalet offers a fire pit, picnic table, and front deck.
Moosehead Trail Campground
781 Moosehead Trail, Newport | 207-974-6241
Open seasonally from May 15 to October 15, Moosehead Trail Campground offers a serene retreat with spacious campsites. It features boating, kayaking, and trail riding, as well as swimming, fishing, and relaxing by the campfire. The family-friendly atmosphere and proximity to local attractions make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Christie’s Campground & Cottages
86 Christie Campground Rd, Newport | 207-368-4645
Set along the picturesque shores of Sebasticook Lake, Christie’s Campground & Cottages offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The property features well-maintained campsites and cozy cottages, providing a range of accommodations to suit different preferences. Guests can enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, and bicycle rentals too.
Exploring All of Dexter Maine & Beyond
Dexter offers scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and a rich cultural history. Visitors can enjoy Lake Wassookeag, explore local museums, and experience small-town charm. And, those who want to explore more of the Maine Highlands can find more in the following nearby towns and cities.
Abbot & Guilford
Abbot and Guilford Maine offer a delightful mix of activities. In Abbot, several scenic trails are perfect for hiking and moose-watching. Visit the historic Center Theatre in Guilford for local performances and events. Enjoy a round of golf at the Foxcroft Golf Club, a picturesque course also in Guilford. Both towns provide a charming blend of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences, making them ideal for a memorable visit.
Greenville & Rockwood
On the southern tip of Moosehead Lake, Greenville Maine is a gateway to outdoor adventures and natural beauty. Moosehead Lake is the largest in Maine and offers boating, fishing, and wildlife-watching activities. Greenville serves as a hub for exploring the surrounding wilderness, including hiking trails, scenic flights, and winter sports. Plus, the town features quaint shops, delicious restaurants, and cultural events, providing a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities.
Bangor
Bangor Maine is a vibrant city known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and scenic beauty. As the former lumber capital of the world, the city offers historic landmarks like the Thomas Hill Standpipe and the Paul Bunyan Statue. Visitors can explore the city’s arts scene through the Bangor Symphony Orchestra and local galleries. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the Bangor City Forest and the Penobscot River. To top it all off, Bangor is home to some great restaurants and Maine breweries.
Lodging options in these Maine Highlands cities and towns are available if you want to turn your day trip into an overnight stay.