52 Weeks of Fun

Not Just Destination Finders, But Destination Storytellers


Machias Bay Area Chamber of Commerce

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Local Attractions

Picturesque harbors dotted with fishing boats, meandering rivers, historic sites predating the Revolutionary War, and the bustling of classic New England towns create an unforgettable experience for visitors who long to find the traditional Maine way of life. An ideal visit maybe a round of golf with an ocean view, a summer crafts festival, shopping for treasures, hiking, swimming, fishing, or just sitting back and relaxing in a quiet place.

The little town of Machias is known for blueberries and rebellion. Machias is smack in the middle of Maine’s blueberry belt, right in the middle of the world’s largest producers of blueberries. When it comes to blueberries, few things can top the annual Machias Wild Blueberry Festival. The celebration each August has been happening for more than 40 years. For true blueberry fans, the Festival even offers a chance to visit some of the region’s wild-blueberry farms.

The rebellion happened back in 1775 when locals in the newly-minted town were told of the Revolutionary War battles of Lexington and Concord. They weren’t too happy. So when a small Royal Navy ship demanded Machias provide lumber to be used by British forces down in Boston, locals decided on a different plan. In what became the first naval battle of the American Revolution, Machias Patriots sailed after the little British ship, fought its crew, and captured it. Today, visitors can visit Burnham Tavern where the Patriots came up with their audacious plan to take on the British.

Splendid fall foliage and moderate temperatures make the Machias Bay Area an exceptional destination for autumn excursions. Winter brings out the adventurous for cross-country skiing, ice fishing, and snowmobiling.

The University of Maine at Machias offers ornithology workshops, art galleries, and many cultural programs. Other art galleries, theater groups, and special restaurants provide diversion and glimpses of fine local talent.

Convenient day trips can be made to Bar Harbor, Campobello Island, Lubec, and West Quoddy Head State Park, where the famous candy cane-striped lighthouse is the first place in America to see the sunrise.



A 52 Weeks of Fun Fascinating Fact about Machias

The first naval battle of the American Revolution was fought in Machias in 1775, when townsfolk captured a British ship demanding lumber for its troops in Boston.

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The University of Maine offers visitors a museum, an art gallery, and a labyrinth.

The delta of the Machias River offers an occasional view of seals.

Machias features a reenactment of the first naval battle of the Revolutionary War.

The Bad Little Falls of the Machias River are in downtown Machias.

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