Explore Western Maine
A curated guide to dining, adventure, and local charm near The Waterford Inne
Nestled in the lakes and mountains of western Maine, Waterford offers a slower pace—where days are shaped by fresh air, good food, and simple pleasures. Whether you’re here to unwind or explore, these are some of our favorite nearby experiences.
NEARBY TOWNS
Visit the charming nearby towns with unique shopping, local dining, and cultural events. Whether you're looking to relax by a serene lake, tackle scenic trails, or delve into regional history, there's always something to see and do just a short drive from your comfortable retreat.
WATERFORD - Our small historic town has two public beaches, a historical society, and a yoga and wellness studio, plus some of our favorite hikes: Mount T’irem and Hawk Mountain. Our favorite beach is Gage Rice!
HARRISON - A few places for lunch, or have an ice cream on long lake, sit right on the water!
NORWAY - Visit the community garden on Friday nights in the summer for pizza by donation, live music, and a local farmers market! Or wander the “Main Street” for the shopping, stop by Nomad Cafe or Dolci Amici for a gelato, end the day with a pint at Norway Brewing Company.
BRIDGTON - Start your morning with a potato donut at the Farmer’s Markets on Saturdays. Grab a pick me up at Beth’s cafe and visit the antique stores, book store, or a Maine favorite: Reny’s! Lots of great dining options.
BETHEL - Visit Gemini Cafe for lunch, amazing pastries and sandwiches, fresh bread! Then wander over to Gem & Mineral Museum, or catch a show at the Gem theatre. Check out Le Mu or Mountain Social House for dinner. Lots of great hikes, breweries, and of course, Sunday River!
DINING
cafes
Cafe Nomad (8 miles)
Downtown Norway, artsy coffee house atmosphere, breakfast / lunch
Gemini Cafe (17 miles)
delicious baked goods & beverages
our favorites
Oxbow Beer Garden (15 miles)
Brewery with farmhouse beers, outdoor and indoor seating, bonfires and sometimes live music! Incredible sourdough pizza & other small plates.
Le Mu Eats (16 miles)
Laotian meets southern comfort meets modern American. Rotating menu, featuring produce from local farms!
Wook Nook (8 miles)
Cozy, causal, fun. Cocktails and burgers.
Elevation Sushi (12 miles)
Good sushi. Walk in or order take out and bring it to the lake!
Standard Gastropub (11 Miles)
Smash burgers, shoestring fries, BBQ & occasional thai nights
something for everyone
Black Horse Tavern (13 miles)
Cozy pub with a large menu, warming roasts.
Dolce Amici (8 miles)
Italian style cafe, lunch and dinner, plus homemade gelato!
Pondicherry House(12 miles)
Woodfired American cuisine.
Standard Gastropub (11 Miles)
Smash burgers, shoestring fries, BBQ & Occasional Thai and Ramen menus.
X Vault (10 miles)
Elevated comfort foods & classics with an asian twist
290 Maine St. (8 Miles)
large variety of pub fare, from lobster rolls to tacos
ANTIQUE SHOPS
For antique enthusiasts, the area around the Waterford Inne is a treasure trove of charming shops and unique finds. Discover a variety of antique stores offering everything from vintage collectibles to rare artifacts. Whether you're hunting for distinctive home décor or one-of-a-kind keepsakes, you'll enjoy exploring the local shops and uncovering hidden gems just a short drive away.
norway / oxford:
widdershins antiques (7.6 miles)
halls and sons (11 miles)
route 26 (12 miles)
the willows flea market (21 miles)
bridgton:
bridgton antiques (13 miles)
moonstruck mercantile (13 miles)
MUSEUMS
On rainy days, or when feeling inspired to learn something new, we have a couple of incredible local museums! In Bridgton, discover the stunning historical mural paintings of Rufus Porter. In Bethel, visit an incredible exhibition of gems and minerals, some from right here in our area, others from as far as the moon!
LAKES & SWIMMING
The lakes in the area around the Waterford Inne offer breathtaking beauty and a range of enjoyable activities. From tranquil spots perfect for relaxation to opportunities for fishing, boating, and exploring, these picturesque lakes provide an ideal setting for making the most of your time in nature.
keoka lake, waterford (3.4 miles)
visit the public beach and boat launch or the more private gage-rice beach.
bear pond, waterford (6.1 miles)
pull off at one of the swimming spots along the road, or visit the bottom of the pond for a picnic bench and grassy knoll, good for kaiaking!
norway lake / pennesseewassee beach, norway (6.7 miles)
plenty of parking, picnic benches, and large beach with roped off swimming zone, or stop by the road-side rope swing!
HIKING
A haven of stunning natural beauty, featuring picturesque landscapes and serene vistas. Enjoy scenic hikes and leisurely walk paths that wind through lush forests, offer sweeping mountain views, and follow tranquil lakeshores. Whether you're looking for invigorating trails or peaceful strolls, the diverse scenery provides a perfect backdrop for outdoor exploration and relaxation.
for all ages
shepard's farm preserve, norway
4.2 mile out and back trail, 265 ft elevation gain
outdoor art sculptures, wild blackberries, fun winding woodland trail.
hawk mountain, waterford
1.7 mile out and back trail- 298 ft elevation gain
hike to an overlook with stunning panoramic views!
pondicherry park, bridgton
0.9 mile loop trail - 32 ft elevation gain
very kid friendly, a nice walk in the park - right in town!
moderate, worth the effort!
mount tire'm, waterford
1.4 mille out and back trail - 577 ft elevation gain
a real good bang for your buck, stunning views!
five kezar pond reserve, stoneham
2.9 mile loop trail - 639 ft elevation gain
whiting hill and otter rocks trail loop, lovell
1.9 mile loop trail - 400 ft elevation gain
noyes mountain, greenwood
2.5 mile out and back trail - 757 ft elevation gain
a day on the course
The Waterford Inne is ideally situated for golf enthusiasts, with several premier courses nearby offering exceptional play. Discover well-maintained greens and challenging layouts that cater to all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a casual player, the beautiful courses in the area provide a memorable golfing experience set against stunning natural backdrops.
escape to relaxation
The stunning natural beauty surrounding the Waterford Inne provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and rejuvenation. While you immerse yourself in the serene lakes and scenic trails, you can also indulge in a soothing massage to enhance your escape from the everyday hustle. Enjoy the tranquility of nature and the added luxury of a calming retreat.
winter activities
Winter transforms the area around the Waterford Inne into a breathtaking wonderland, where snow-covered landscapes and crisp, fresh air create a picturesque setting. The fun continues to grow with endless adventures, from skiing and snowboarding to cozy fireside moments and winter hiking. Embrace the beauty of the season and explore the exciting activities that await you.
We hope you enjoy exploring the stunning landscapes, engaging in outdoor activities, and discovering the unique charm of the surrounding towns. Thank you for choosing the Waterford Inne as your home base for your adventures. We look forward to making your stay comfortable and unforgettable.