Brunswick, Maine: Things to Do, Stay & Eat

Brunswick, Maine: Where River Meets the Sea

Tucked away up the far northeastern edge of Casco Bay lies the charming town of Brunswick, Maine. This idyllic town, bracketed by the Androscoggin River to its North and Casco Bay to its South, is steeped in history and burgeoned by industry that is still present to this day. This thriving community, known for its waterfronts, shipbuilding, and proximity to centers of higher education, offers a vibrant cultural scene that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. 

History of Brunswick

Brunswick's history dates back to the early 17th century when the area was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples. European settlers arrived in the late 1600s, led by Thomas Purchase, who acquired the land from the Wabanaki Confederacy. The settlement was initially known as Pejepscot, but it was later renamed Brunswick in 1717, paying homage to the House of Brunswick, the ruling family of King George I of Great Britain. 

Throughout the centuries, Brunswick played a significant role in maritime trade, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. Its strategic location on the Androscoggin River and its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean facilitated robust economic growth. The town's historic architecture, including well-preserved 19th-century homes and buildings, serves as a testament to this prosperous past. 

Literary Giants in Brunswick

Brunswick boasts an illustrious literary tradition, having been home to several renowned writers and intellectuals all connected to Brunswick’s Bowdoin College. Among these literary residents that called Brunswick home were Harriet Beecher Stowe, the author of Uncle Tom’s Cabin; Nathaniel Hawthorne, writer of The Scarlet Letter; as well as Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, writer of the famed “Paul Revere’s Ride” poem.

Bowdoin College

Founded in 1794, Bowdoin College has deep historical roots that have shaped the town's development and elements of American history over the centuries. Bowdoin’s alumni include President Franklin Pierce; Robert Peary, explorer of the North Pole; Co-founder of Subway Sandwiches, Peter Buck; and the founder of Netflix, Reed Hastings. This small liberal arts college offers robust majors like neuroscience and econometrics all in the spirit of pedagogy and inquiry.

Bowdoin College also plays a significant role in the town's arts and cultural events. The college's prestigious art museum hosts exhibitions that feature renowned artists, drawing art enthusiasts from across the region. Moreover, the college's theater and music departments frequently stage captivating performances, providing residents with access to high-quality productions. 

Arts in Brunswick

Brunswick's cultural and arts scene is a vibrant tapestry of creativity, with opportunities to explore a diverse array of artistic expressions. In addition to the bowdoin’s contributions, the town boasts several art galleries, showcasing the works of local and regional artists. These galleries foster a sense of community and provide a platform for emerging talents to shine. 

The town's commitment to the arts is further evident in its annual festivals and events. The Brunswick Art Walk, held on select Fridays during the year, invites visitors to explore various galleries, studios, and boutiques, encouraging an immersive art experience. Furthermore, the Brunswick Film Festival celebrates the world of cinema, showcasing compelling independent films and nurturing a love for storytelling on the silver screen. Brunswick embraces performing arts with its community theater groups, which stage thought-provoking plays and musicals throughout the year. The theatrical performances bring residents together, encouraging a shared appreciation for the dramatic arts. 

Hotels in Brunswick

Brunswick is host to many hotels and lodging options. There is a Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott located right off of I-295. Additionally there are several boutique hotels in the center of town like the Brunswick Hotel, the Federal and the OneSixtyFive. There are also campgrounds and motels for those looking to find budget options. 

Restaurants in Brunswick

Brunswick has a large host of options for a town of its size. The Great Impasta has hearty Italian with a fun and casual atmosphere, Taco The Town has quick fix Mexican and tex-mex options. If these punny restaurants aren’t to your fancy, then we recommend heading across the bridge to Topsham to try Blueberries which serves...well, muffins.

Amenities in Brunswick

Brunswick has no shortage of choices on the amenities front, there is a Hannaford in town and also many smaller boutique markets to choose from. There is a Walgreens for any prescription needs. There is also a Tractor Supply Co and a Lowe’s on the outskirts of town for any hardware needs. Any missing amenity might also be found in Topsham, just across the Androscoggin River.

Conclusion

Brunswick, Maine, is a destination that captivates the heart and soul of those who visit or call it home. From the enchanting waterfront concerts that unite the community to its close ties with Bowdoin College, this town radiates a sense of camaraderie, intellectual stimulation, and artistic appreciation. The cultural and arts scene, infused with creativity and talent, adds a distinctive charm that makes Brunswick truly special. 

Common questions

What are some popular events in Brunswick, Maine, other than waterfront concerts?

In addition to the waterfront concerts, Brunswick hosts the Brunswick Outdoor Arts Festival, an annual event that showcases the work of local and regional artists.

The Great State of Maine Air Show is another popular event, attracting aviation enthusiasts from all over.

The town also hosts craft fairs, farmers' markets, and food festivals that offer a taste of the region's culinary delights.

What makes Brunswick stand out from other coastal towns in Maine?

Brunswick stands out due to its unique combination of history, culture, and education.

The presence of Bowdoin College contributes to a vibrant intellectual atmosphere that is further enriched by its thriving arts and cultural scene.

Additionally, the town's connections to prominent literary figures like Harriet Beecher Stowe and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow add a distinct literary charm to Brunswick's character.

Is Brunswick, Maine a college town?

Yes.

Bowdoin College sits at the top of Maine Street and shapes much of the town, with its art museum and Arctic museum drawing visitors onto the campus and the academic calendar setting how busy the restaurants and bookstores feel.

Brunswick is also a former naval air station town, so it carries more industry and housing than a small college town usually does.

Is Brunswick on the ocean?

Partly.

The town center sits on the Androscoggin River above its falls, but Brunswick's southern edge runs down to tidewater at the head of Casco Bay, with shore access at Simpson's Point and Mere Point.

For open ocean and working harbors you continue into Harpswell, which is a peninsula drive of its own from downtown.

Does Brunswick have good restaurants?

Yes, and more of them than a town this size usually supports.

Maine Street holds most of the rest within a few blocks.

Is Brunswick a good base for the Midcoast?

It works well.

Brunswick sits where the road up from Portland meets Route 1, so Bath, Freeport and the Harpswell peninsulas are all short drives, and you get a real downtown with year-round restaurants instead of a seasonal strip.

The tradeoff is that you are not on the water.

For a harbor view, stay further up the coast.

Can you visit Brunswick by train?

Yes. The Downeaster serves Brunswick Station. A stay focused on downtown and Bowdoin is different from a coastal driving trip, so arrange onward transport for any peninsula outings.

Are Bowdoin’s two museums the same attraction?

No. The art museum and the Peary-MacMillan Arctic Museum have different collections. Choose by your interests and consult each museum’s current visitor information rather than treating one opening schedule as covering both.

Brunswick is an incorporated town in Cumberland County, Maine. Its population is 21,756 in the 2020 Census, measured for the whole municipality. Use the Brunswick municipal website for town-office contacts, public records, meeting notices and local services.