You may wonder why a small coastal Maine town has so many grand 19th-century homes — including our Italianate-style Captain Nickels Inn overlooking Penobscot Bay.
The answer is the sea.
During the 1800s, Searsport became one of America’s remarkable seafaring communities. Hundreds of sea captains called Searsport home, and many built impressive residences here for their families while sailing the world. Those captains and their families helped shape the architecture, history, and character that still define Searsport today.
That maritime history is only part of what makes this town worth exploring. Today you’ll find historic districts, independent shops, restaurants and breweries, the Penobscot Marine Museum, beaches, walking trails, and beautiful views of Penobscot Bay.
Here are some of our favorite things to do in Searsport, Maine.
1. Stroll the Historic Streets
Searsport Historic Districts
There are two designated historic districts in Searsport.
The first is in the heart of downtown along Main Street, where historically significant buildings dating from the mid-to-late 1800s reflect Searsport’s prosperity during the height of shipbuilding and maritime trade.
The second is the East Main Historic District, which includes several elegant homes built by sea captains along Route 1 between Black Road and Navy Street.
At one time, Captain Jonathan Nickels owned much of the property where these homes sit. Whether you explore by car, bicycle, or on foot, keep an eye out for the grand Italianate and Greek Revival homes that tell the story of Searsport’s seafaring past.
And, of course, Captain Nickels Inn is part of that story.
2. Enjoy a Little Retail Therapy
While admiring the brick Greek Revival and Italianate buildings on Main Street, take some time to stop in the shops! These are some of our favorites:
Splendiferous Sweet Shoppe — Mother and daughter owned chocolate, ice cream, and coffee shop with an Alice in Wonderland theme
Treasures and Trash Barn — One of several antique shops on Main St, they have architectural salvage from doorknobs to garden tools
Anodyne Book Shop – An independent, full service, small town bookstore
3. Explore the Marine Museum
The Penobscot Marine Museum is Maine’s first maritime museum and one of the best places to understand why Searsport became such an important seafaring community.
Its collections include maritime art, historic photographs, ship models, boats, artifacts, and stories of the captains and families who sailed from Searsport to ports around the world.
The museum is spread across several historic buildings and also hosts seasonal exhibits, demonstrations, and special events.
Because the museum operates seasonally, be sure to check current hours when planning your visit.
4. Discover Shipbuilding in Miniature
BlueJacket Shipcrafters has been creating detailed wooden ship models for more than a century and is one of those uniquely Searsport stops that surprises visitors.
Their gallery showcases an impressive collection of completed ship models, and their kits range from beginner-friendly projects to intricate models for experienced builders.
Even if you are not planning to build one yourself, it is fascinating to see the craftsmanship and maritime history represented in miniature.
5. Discover a Little More Local History
Carver Memorial Library
Carver Memorial Library is another lovely piece of Searsport history.
The original library building dates to 1909 and was given to the town by the Carver family in memory of Captain George A. Carver. Even the stone used in the building connects back to the family’s property at nearby Moose Point.
It is a charming stop for anyone interested in local architecture, history, or simply discovering another corner of the community.
6. Dining in Searsport
Searsport has a growing collection of fun and flavorful places to eat, from classic Maine seafood and craft beer to Asian fusion and cozy tavern fare. A few of our favorites include:
Homeport Tavern — Located right next door to Captain Nickels Inn, Homeport Tavern has the warm feel of an English-style pub in a historic setting. Enjoy cocktails, lunch or dinner, and often live music, with a menu that highlights locally inspired comfort food. It is an especially easy choice after a day of exploring when you would rather leave the car parked.
Sakura Harbour — One of Searsport’s newest restaurants, Sakura Harbour brings a creative Asian-fusion menu to the Midcoast. You’ll find everything from sushi and poke bowls to Pad Thai, ramen, Korean specialties, and inventive dishes incorporating Maine ingredients. It is a wonderful option when you are craving something beyond traditional coastal fare.
Maineport Brewing Company — Searsport’s first brewery is a welcoming, casual downtown gathering spot offering locally brewed craft beer in a relaxed taproom atmosphere. Order a pint or flight, settle in, and enjoy a taste of the local community. Food trucks and other local food offerings are often part of the experience.
Anglers Restaurant — A longtime local favorite for classic Maine seafood and generous portions. Think chowders, fried seafood platters, lobster, burgers, and familiar comfort food in a relaxed, family-friendly setting.
Amandine Bakery — A charming European-inspired bakery and café offering pastries, coffee, savory hand pies, sausage rolls, paninis, and other freshly prepared treats. A lovely stop for something sweet, a light lunch, or a coffee while exploring the area.
7. Get Outside
One of the best parts of visiting Maine is spending time outdoors, and Searsport offers several beautiful places to do exactly that.
Sears Island
Sears Island is a 940-acre nature preserve just off the coast of Searsport.
Park at the end of the causeway and continue on foot or bicycle to explore miles of trails, beaches, woods, and beautiful coastal views.
It is an easy place to spend an hour or an entire afternoon.
Moose Point State Park
Moose Point State Park offers peaceful trails along the waterfront and through the woods.
Bring a picnic or snack, find one of the benches overlooking Penobscot Bay, and enjoy views of the nearby islands.
It is especially beautiful on a clear Maine day when the water seems to stretch forever.
Mosman Memorial Park
Located just off Route 1 in downtown Searsport, Mosman Memorial Park is an easy place to slow down and enjoy Penobscot Bay.
Bring a picnic, enjoy the lawn and waterfront views, or make your way down to the shore.
It is a lovely stop to combine with a walk through downtown Searsport or a visit to the Penobscot Marine Museum.
You want to enjoy the elements in Maine, no matter the season! The Atlantic Ocean figures prominently in all activities.
7. Stay in a Sea Captain’s Mansion
To cap off a day exploring the best things to do in Searsport, Maine, make sure you have your reservation at the Captain Nickels Inn. Newly restored to its original glory, you will appreciate the well-appointed rooms and suites that pay homage to the home’s maritime history. You will return again and again to the comforts of MidCoast Maine’s seaside sanctuary.
UPDATED: September 2026