A quieter alternative to Portland
With the largest protected anchorage in Maine, Falmouth has become a haven for yachties on the northeast coast and a bustling metropolitan area in the northern suburb of Portland. Once a small fishing town with 3 shipbuilding firms, Falmouth now features 3 private golf resorts, a yacht club and no fewer than 4 wildlife preserves. There are plenty of things for visitors to do in this pretty little town situated on the banks of Casco Bay. When you step outside your Falmouth vacation rental, you'll discover a part of Maine rich in maritime history, cultural activities and outdoor pursuits.
Visit the museums to work up a thirst
Among the town's many attractions, the most popular are often free to enter, with museums like the Portland Observatory close by to Falmouth vacation rentals. This former lighthouse, built to protect passing ships, now houses a maritime history museum and the best views in town. The Maine Narrow Gauge Railroad Company & Museum is another great attraction, offering train rides that children particularly enjoy. For something decidedly more adult, the Shipyard Brewing Company has daily tours and tastings in its Portland Microbrewery. The Old Port, with its cobbled and brick warehouses, is an atmospheric venue for dining while in town.
A day on the course or shop local
Although more built-up than other parts of Maine, Falmouth still enjoys hiking trails and wildlife preserves in both abundance and easy reach. If you want to practice your swing, head up to the Portland Country Club, Riverside Municipal or Woodlands golf clubs which offer 18-hole fairways. Sailing and motorboating are also sought-after activities, allowing exploration across the shimmering waters of the bay, with its numerous tiny islands. Head south and Portland offers exceptional shopping and market experiences, with an emphasis on independent outlets specializing in handmade products from across the state.
Lots to do, whatever the weather
As with the rest of Maine, Falmouth is best visited during the warmer months. That said, because it's more metropolitan than other coastal towns further north, it is still a lively place to visit in fall and winter, when Falmouth vacation rental prices drop. With so many things to do in town, you can get out of the winter chill and into a host of exciting activities undercover in Falmouth or neighboring Portland. This makes winter a great time to come and enjoy Maine's world-renowned seafood at cheaper prices than you'd find in the high season.
Exploring the natural landscape of Falmouth
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or just want to take in the scenery, Falmouth is a great place to spend some time outside. These are some of the area's noteworthy features, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Eastern Promenade (5.2 mi / 8.4 km)
- East End Beach (5.3 mi / 8.5 km)
- Willard Beach (7.1 mi / 11.4 km)
- Fort Williams Park (8.7 mi / 14 km)
- Desert of Maine (9.6 mi / 15.4 km)
- Higgins Beach (12.6 mi / 20.3 km)
Transportation to and around Falmouth
Fly into Portland Intl. Jetport Airport (PWM), the closest airport, located 7.1 mi (11.4 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that works for your travel itinerary, you could also fly into Auburn, ME (LEW-Auburn - Lewiston Municipal), which is 21.2 mi (34 km) away.
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