Romantic Winter Weekend Getaway in Camden, Maine

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Advisor - Joanna Johnsen
Curated By

Joanna Johnsen

  • Maine

  • Active Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Off-the-Beaten-Path Travel

  • Road Trip Travel

  • Food & Wine

  • Local Culture

  • Local Food

  • Entertainment

A lake area with snow covered mountains and a cabin in the distance at dusk with nice lighting
Curator’s statement

Camden, Maine, is a classic, nostalgic fishing town in the heart of Midcoast, Maine. While summer visitors flock to Camden to take in the majestic schooners, eat lobster fresh off the boats and hike Mt. Battie for unparalleled views, a winter weekend in Camden can feel just as magical. Skip the crowds, beat the traffic and enjoy a cozy, romantic weekend away from it all!

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Things to do

A lighthouse and red-roofed building on a rocky cliffside during the sunset
  • Ski and snowboard at the Camden Snow Bowl: just about five minutes outside of town sits a wonderful, family-friendly ski hill to test out your skills on the slopes without committing to a long drive or pricey lift ticket. Don’t skip the night skiing!

  • Toboggan chute: Don’t miss your chance to board a toboggan and fly down this unique, hand-made wooden chute that deposits you right out onto frozen Hosmer Pond. The Jack Williams Toboggan Chute is home to the U.S. National Toboggan Championships held each year in early February!

  • Farnsworth Art Museum: Just 15 minutes south of town sits a delightful and approachable museum featuring an impressive collection of American art (Homer, O’keefe, Hopper, etc) with an emphasis on artists who have a special connection with Maine.

  • Wander downtown Camden and take in the local shopping: Absent of big chains, Camden is full of local sellers and makers with adorable, welcoming storefronts. Fan favorites include: The Maine Dog, Uncle Willy’s Candy Shoppe (two floors of the most nostalgic and elaborate candy you can conjure up in your mind!), Jo Ellen Designs, Owl and Turtle Bookshop, Planet Toys, and more.

  • Take in a show at the historic Camden Opera House: Built in 1894. This incredibly intimate venue in the center of town features ballet, opera, music, comedy, and everything in between.

  • Visit the nearby Owl’s Head Lighthouse: For an incredible view from the top or walk the mile-long granite breakwater to explore the Rockland Lighthouse and learn about its history in the adjacent Maine Lighthouse Museum.

Places to eat & drink

A classic restaurant with red interior and fringe lights with bar seating.

In the Evening:

  • Natalies: One of the most high-end dining experiences in Mid-coast Maine, set at the beautiful Camden Harbor Hotel. For the full experience, don’t skip the tasting menu, packed with local lobster and seafood offerings and incredible wine pairings. Elevated and intimate with great harbor views. A la carte and bar area offerings available as well.

  • Long Grain: As featured in the New York Times, Long Grain draws crowds from all over New England to enjoy their fresh, impossibly flavorful Asian fusion. Be sure to make a reservation, and don’t skip the house made noodles.

  • 40 Paper: This cozy restaurant features the best cocktail bar in the area, and an awesome happy hour menu boasting all their best appetizers and flatbreads at great prices. Great wine list as well! The mushroom and prosciutto flatbreads, as well as the carrots, are must-tries!

  • Peter Otts on the Water: Set right on the harbor, this local favorite has the best views in town and serves up comforting and wide-ranging fare - including excellent local seafood, of course!

  • Primo: A can’t miss local bistro in nearby Rockland. A true farm to table restaurant featuring local and seasonal cuisine, much of which is grown and produced on site! Proprietor Melissa Kelly is a two-time James Beard award winner who takes great pride in turning out high quality, delicious food alongside excellent service and a delightful, rustic-chic atmosphere.

  • Cuzzy's: At night, head to the upstairs bar at Cuzzy’s for the ultimate gritty, local dive bar experience! Weekend karaoke, darts, Big Buck Hunter, and a good selection of beer make this a fun stop at the end of the night. The dining room downstairs features simple, homey, comforting food and a more family-friendly atmosphere. Be on the lookout for fun specials, such as BYOL - Bring Your Own Lobster!

During the Day:

  • Zoot Coffee: Swing through this independent, quirky coffee shop for incredible espresso drinks and freshly brewed coffee. Linger and catch up with the locals while enjoying tasty pastries.

  • Camden Deli: A great casual lunch option serving up excellent sandwiches, lobster rolls, and a wide array of side dishes and tasty, sweet treats!

Advisor - Joanna Johnsen

Travel Advisor

Joanna Johnsen

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Maine. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Gillian Spatz's guide, Explore Bar Harbor: Maine's Coastal Gem.