Travel + Discover Belfast: Maine Vacation Guide

Belfast sits in that in-between part of Maine: north of the summer crowds, south of the deep woods, and just on the other side of the Downeast designation.

This MidCoast treasure encompasses much of what people love about the Maine harbor towns: a working waterfront, an eclectic art scene, and a food scene that punches well above its weight.

You’ll find Belfast on Route 1 between Camden and the Penobscot River. In fact, the city wraps around the Passagassawakeag River (but feel free to call it “The Passy”).

Whether you’re driving through on a road trip or want to stop for a few days to experience the heartbeat of Waldo County, we’re going to help you plan a Belfast, Maine, itinerary.

Belfast, Maine, History

Waldo County is the ancestral homeland of the Penobscot people. The same natural resources that fueled the Indigenous people for thousands of years eventually brought in settlers.

By the 19th century, Belfast was a shipbuilding powerhouse. The whimsy and wealth of those early days still line the city streets with stately homes and an impressive harbor.

The 1860s brought the railway to Belfast, opening the door for the canning and poultry industries. Around that time, the city also burned down … twice. The same rebuilt structures still line the streets today.

The blue-collar town could’ve gone bust in the mid-20th century, but a waterfront redevelopment plan and a growing art community breathed new life into Belfast. In more recent years, it was ranked as one of the 10 Coolest Small Towns by USA Today.

Outdoor Things to Do in Belfast, Maine

Because of how beautiful the area is, there are always plenty of things to do outside. Here are some of the most popular outdoor attractions.

Explore the Belfast Harbor Walk

Follow the Belfast Harbor Walk for a beautiful stroll along the harbor via a walkway that crosses over the water at the Armistice Bridge. Also, this is a great place to watch the boats come in and out of the harbor. The trail eventually reaches downtown.

Walk the Belfast Rail Trail

If you take the Harbor Walk away from downtown, it will connect to the Belfast Rail Trail. This is a gorgeous place to get some exercise because it is just over 2 miles long. The path follows an old railroad bed along the Passagassawakeag River.

Hills to Sea Trail

Looking for a longer hike? Pick the Hills to Sea Trail, which spans 47 miles of Waldo County. It connects Belfast to Unity. The trail has a moderate ranking overall, but certain sections are easier or more challenging.

Hawthorne Hike

Split the difference in length on the Hawthorne Hike, which covers all the best stops and historic districts in Belfast. If you look at the Hawthorne Hike map, you’ll see it forms the shape of an elephant. The whole loop runs about 3.5 miles, but the Baby Hawthorne hike is about 1.25 miles.

Stop By Belfast City Park

If you are in the mood for a small adventure, swing by Belfast City Park. It is always kept in beautiful condition and is gorgeous during the fall when all the leaves begin to change color.

Since the park is located on the water, you will have a gorgeous view of the estuary leading to the ocean.

Explore Heritage Park

Another beautiful park you may want to check out in Belfast is called Heritage Park. This park is located on the water, so you will have plenty of opportunities to gaze out over the harbor.

Spread across nearly 18 acres, you’ll find space to relax and a robust list of summer events. Check the schedule for events at Steamboat Landing Park, too.

Head of Tide Preserve

Explore 92 acres with two easy mile-long loops at Head of Tide Preserve. While not that long, the trail includes woods, fields, shoreline, and a garden. Also, consider the Stephenson Preserve and Stover Preserve nearby, all part of the Coastal Mountains Land Trust.

The Back and Forth

If you want to get out on the water without signing up for a stiff, scripted tour, The Back and Forth is your move. It’s a 28-foot wooden lobster boat from 1959, and the whole thing feels more like tagging along with a friend than booking an experience.

Plus, check the schedule for airplane tours over the MidCoast.

Indoor Things to Do in Belfast, Maine

While there is always something fun to do outdoors, there are plenty of opportunities for fun inside as well. Here are some of the top indoor attractions around the city.

Perry’s Nut House

Wild, wacky, and wonderful sum up this roadside attraction. Perry’s Nut House started as a pecan and assorted nuts store in 1927 and has since grown into a Maine institution.

We don’t want to spoil the stories that you’ll hear inside, but some famous leaders and legends walked through this store. Plus, there’s everything from the macabre to munchy foods waiting for you.

Colonial Theatre

While suggesting a movie theater for something to do in a Maine town might seem a little obvious, we should address the elephant on the roof … and in the lobby.

First, the Colonial Theatre dates back to 1912. While it closed down in recent years, 2023 saw a reopening with much of the same, including the giant elephant statue (named Hawthorne) on the roof.

The elephant was once a staple of Perry’s Nut House, but moved to the Colonial when Perry’s shut down (but as mentioned above, is now open again).

There’s also a baby elephant statue in the lobby, so be sure to get a photo with Baby Hawthorne while you’re there.

The Lupine Cottage

Explore local crafts and artwork at The Lupine Cottage. Local artists run this co-op, and people from all over the region display their work here.

You will find housewares, jewelry, hats, paintings, sculptures, and numerous other items that have been made by hand. This is the perfect place to grab unique souvenirs.

Belfast Historical Society & Museum

If you want to learn more about the local area, you should stop by the Belfast Historical Society & Museum. This building has been standing for more than 200 years, and there are several rooms inside with different exhibits from various parts of Belfast’s history.

Plus, this is where you can grab a map for a self-guided walking tour of Belfast.

Belfast Curling Club

You have probably seen curling on TV during the Winter Olympics, but have you ever actually tried it yourself? Now is the perfect opportunity to do so.

Swing by the Belfast Curling Club to sign up for a lesson! There is also a bar inside, so you can grab a drink while you watch others on the ice.

United Farmers Market of Maine

If you are looking for locally made products, check out the United Farmers Market of Maine. The indoor event is open year-round on Saturdays.

You will find plenty of fruits, vegetables, breads, cheeses, and coffees, all Maine-made. You may find some homemade oils, lotions, and beautiful arts and crafts.

Also, you can check the location and schedule for the Belfast Farmers’ Market, which also runs throughout the year on Fridays from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Top Restaurants in Belfast, Maine

When you are ready to get something to eat, there are plenty of delicious options throughout the city. Let’s take a look at some of the top Belfast restaurants.

Downshift Coffee

The city of Belfast has a rich heritage filled with delicious coffee, and this is one of the best places to get a cup. At Downshift Coffee, you can try local coffee beans that have been roasted to perfection.

Bell the Cat

If you are looking for a place where you can get a cup of coffee and delicious bite to eat, check out Bell the Cat. This is a local favorite, so you may find yourself waiting a while, but it will definitely be worth it.

The delicatessen and coffee shop serve plenty of amazing drinks and rotating food specials. The salads are particularly popular, too.

Harborwalk Restaurant

If you are looking for an affordable option that will fill you up, you should check out the Harborwalk Restaurant. This classic American restaurant features burgers, fried food, beer, and local seafood on its menu.

Everything is served to you with a beautiful view of the harbor, so you can fill up while watching the boats go by.

Rollie’s Bar and Grill

One of the top and most affordable spots to eat in Belfast, Maine, is Rollie’s Bar and Grill. It serves simple American pub food. The restaurant has beer specials throughout the week, and there are a lot of TVs for watching sports games.

This is also a place for Stephen King fans, as several scenes of the novel-turned-movie “Thinner” were filmed here.

Nautilus Seafood & Grill

If you are interested in fine dining in Belfast, Maine, one of the most popular places is Nautilus Seafood & Grill. This local restaurant is known for serving delicious seafood right from the harbor. Take your time so you can enjoy the beautiful view of the harbor as you eat.

Marshall Wharf Brewing Co.

If you are interested in a local brewery, you may want to check out Marshall Wharf Brewing Co. It is one of the few breweries in the area and has a beer atrium with live music. Plus, it’s dog-friendly! You can also order beer to go.

A Small Town With Big Personality

Belfast may be a small dot on the map, but it’s packed with heart, creativity, and classic Maine charm. Whether you’re strolling the Harbor Walk, browsing local shops, or just soaking in the views, it’s the kind of place that feels instantly welcoming.

It’s easy to slow down here and even easier to want to stay a little longer. Fortunately, there are plenty of lodging options in Belfast to do just that!