Gems of Route 26

THE GEMS OF Route 26

Just ten minutes west of Auburn, picturesque Route 26 winds its way through gorgeous countryside boasting culturally, historically, and ecologically significant attractions ideal for day trips, families, and solo reflection. Stop at Cyndi’s Dockside halfway through for amazing scallops and a peaceful lake view.

Maine Wildlife Park | (207) 657-4977 Walk nature trails, tour expansive gardens, and see over thirty species of native wildlife. Enjoy the snack shack, gift shop, picnic area, and more. Poland Spring Resort | (207) 998-4351 This historic resort offers numerous recreational and entertainment activities, dining, and room accommodations to suit any budget. Here you will find a Donald Ross-designed 18-hole golf course open to the public, three separate inns, and eleven cottages situated on over 500 acres. Shaker Village | (207) 926-4597 Established as a farming religious community, Shaker Village consists of 17 historic buildings on 1,800 acres. It is the only place in the world where Shakers continue to live, work, and worship. Daily guided museum tours. Maine State Building | (207) 998-4142 Originally constructed for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, this building is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. McLaughlin Garden | (207) 743-8820 This garden features collections of hosta, daylilies, astilbes, phlox, sedum, Maine wildflowers, ferns, and over 200 lilacs — all beneath a canopy of mature deciduous and coniferous trees. Poland Spring Water | (207) 998-7143 The extensive history of Poland Spring began deep in the woods of Maine in 1845 and in the early 1900’s a state of the art bottling facility and springhouse were constructed there using Spanish architecture. After a three-year restoration project that began in 1998, the facilities were faithfully transformed into an informative museum open to the public.