Rockland, Maine, a quaint coastal town, is celebrated for its serene lifestyle and rich history. It's a place where the past is preserved, and the present is embraced with a community spirit that makes it one of the top 100 best small towns to live in, according to an Outside Magazine readers' poll. The Old Granite Inn stands as a testament to Rockland's enduring appeal, offering visitors a unique blend of historical ambiance and modern comfort.
Rockland's reputation as a picturesque and tranquil town was cemented when it served as the backdrop for the 1957 film "Peyton Place," which juxtaposed small-town innocence with scandalous secrets. This cinematic portrayal, though now seen as a tame reflection of Americana, was a bold move at the time and contributed to the town's cultural legacy.
Maine is distinctive not only for its single-syllable name but also for its straightforward way of life. Rockland, in particular, has maintained much of its mid-20th-century charm. Strolling down Main Street, now listed on the National Register of Historic Places, one can find a vibrant mix of ice cream parlors, bookstores, cafés, bars, museums, and art galleries.
Beneath its quaint exterior, Rockland is a hub of economic activity. MBNA, once the main employer and the largest privately-owned credit card issuer in the U.S., played a significant role in the town's economy. Although MBNA was acquired by Bank of America in 2006, the legacy of its presence remains in the form of restored buildings and a campus-like headquarters near the waterfront.
The Farnsworth Art Museum is a cultural cornerstone in Rockland, housing a three-story art gallery in a former bank building on Main Street. A short walk away, the Wyeth Center, part of the museum, showcases a vast collection of seafaring oil paintings by the renowned Wyeth family, capturing the essence of maritime history.
Rockland's connection to the sea is further celebrated through its windjammer cruises. These traditional sailing vessels offer tourists a chance to explore the Penobscot Bay islands, echoing the town's shipbuilding past.
The Knox County Regional Airport, located just outside Rockland, provides a quaint and personal travel experience, with flights primarily connecting to Boston. The local bus terminal, situated at the ferry terminal, serves as a transportation hub, with a marina nearby.
Directly across from the ferry terminal is the Old Granite Inn, a Colonial Federalist architectural marvel crafted from St. George, Maine granite. Innkeepers John and Regan Cary offer a warm welcome and comfortable accommodations, including the highly recommended Room #6, with its panoramic bay views.
The Old Granite Inn, originally built in the 1700s as a family home, has a storied history. After serving as an Elks Club from 1906 to 1984, it was transformed into the charming inn it is today. The inn's 11 rooms, most with private baths, are furnished with period pieces and restored hardwoods, offering guests a cozy retreat.
The ground floor features a living room with books about the area and a dining space where Regan's famous quiche is served for breakfast. The Carys reside in a contemporary home attached to the inn, further blending the historical with the modern.
For more information or to subscribe to their newsletter, visit the Old Granite Inn's official website at www.oldgraniteinn.com.
Rockland comes alive in the summer with events like the North Atlantic Blues Festival, which has received the "Keeping the Blues Alive Award" from the Blues Foundation. The festival takes place in July at Harbor Park, with tickets available for purchase in advance or at the door.
Despite a decline in the fishing industry and cruise ship visits, Rockland's port cargo has seen a significant increase, up 43% over the previous year. For those interested in maritime adventures, the Maine Windjammer Association offers family outings on traditional coastal schooners (www.sailmainecoast.com).
For a taste of local television, tune into "Bill Green's Maine" on Channel WLBZ in Bangor or WCSH in Portland, or visit their website at www.wcsh6.com.
The Rockland Farmers' Market Association represents local farmers and producers, with many of their products available on Main Street. For outdoor enthusiasts, Acadia National Park is nearby, offering rock climbing with Acadia Mountain Guides (www.acadiamountainguides.com).
For ferry schedules and services, contact the Maine State Ferry Service, operated by the Department of Transportation in Rockland.
To read the full feature with photos, visit the Jetsetters Magazine archive at www.jetsettersmagazine.com.
Kriss Hammond, Editor of Jetsetters Magazine, invites readers to explore travel options at Jetstreams.com and beach resorts at Beach Booker.
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