Things to Do in Fort Kent, Maine
America’s First Mile Monument
See the iconic start of U.S. Route 1, marking the northernmost beginning of this historic highway that runs all the way to Key West, Florida — a must‑see photo spot overlooking the St. John River.
Fort Kent Blockhouse
Explore this historic log fortification from the Aroostook War era, now a museum highlighting local history and the Maine–Canada border dispute.
Fort Kent Railroad Station & Historical Society
Learn about the region’s transportation and local heritage at the historic railroad station museum with exhibits on lumbering, farming, and early rail travel.
Outdoor Recreation & Trails
Fort Kent Riverside Trail System
Enjoy a 3‑mile scenic trail along the Saint John and Fish Rivers — perfect for walking, biking, or a peaceful riverside stroll.
St. John Valley Heritage Trail
This 16.9‑mile multi‑use path connects Fort Kent and Saint Francis for snowmobiling, hiking, biking, ATVs, and horseback riding through river‑valley landscapes.
Fort Kent Outdoor Center
A hub for year‑round outdoor activity: winter cross‑country skiing, snowshoeing, trail running and biking in warmer months.
Lonesome Pine Trails
Maine’s northernmost downhill ski area with runs suitable for all skill levels.
Water Trails & Fishing
Paddle, canoe, or kayak along quiet waterways including the Northern Forest Canoe Trail and Fish River Byway, with excellent fishing, swimming holes, and peaceful scenery.
Snowmobile Trail Network
The Fort Kent SnoRiders snowmobile club maintains a robust system of snowmobile routes around Fort Kent, including local connectors and sections of Maine’s larger ITS (Interconnected Trail System):
ITS 85 – Main route connecting Fort Kent with surrounding trail systems including Eagle Lake and St. Francis.
ITS 92 – Connects to trails west of town.
Trail 73 / 73A / 73B – Local connectors branching from ITS 85 toward Soldier Pond, Black Lake Road, and other destinations.
ATV Trail Network
Fort Kent and the St. John Valley offer great ATV riding opportunities thanks to local trail clubs and the broader Maine trail network. Whether you’re looking for scenic rail‑trail cruising or club‑maintained woods routes, riders can explore miles of terrain in the region.
Valley ATV Riders Trail System — Fort Kent’s own ATV club maintains about 38 ± miles of trails in the area, giving riders variety and access from local trailheads. These routes are great for both short rides and longer loop days.
St. John Valley Heritage Trail — This scenic 16.9‑mile rail‑trail runs from Fort Kent to Saint Francis along the St. John River and is officially open to ATV use in season. It features a crushed stone surface ideal for ATVs and other non‑motorized uses.
Seasonal Events & Festivals
International Muskie Fishing Derby
A beloved annual fishing competition drawing anglers from far and wide to challenge the famed muskie fishery on the St. John River.
Loggerfest brings Fort Kent’s rich logging history to life with a fun, family‑friendly celebration of the region’s forest industry. Organized by the Greater Fort Kent Area Chamber of Commerce, the event features lumberjack demonstrations, log loading competitions, a logger parade, and plenty of community activities. It’s a great way to experience local traditions and see logging skills in action
Winter Sports & Races
Snowmobiling and Nordic ski events including the Can‑Am Crown sled dog races and regional racing make Fort Kent a winter destination.
Local Flavors & Culture
Dining
First Mile Brewing Company
Relax with local craft beer named for Fort Kent’s iconic highway milestone — a great stop after outdoor adventures.
Swamp Buck Restaurant & Lounge – Classic American comfort food and local favorites like burgers, steaks, and even French‑Canadian inspired dishes like poutine. A go‑to for hearty meals in a relaxed, friendly setting.
47 North – A highly‑rated restaurant on West Main Street offering a more upscale dining experience with seasonal chef‑driven dishes — from Italian and seafood to creative entrees and specialties praised by locals and visitors alike.
Rock’s Family Diner – A long‑standing local diner serving up breakfast, lunch, and homestyle meals — known especially for its whoopie pies and old‑fashioned diner experience.
China Garden – A local favorite for Chinese cuisine, with classic dishes such as lo mein, fried rice, and stir‑fries — perfect for a casual dinner or take‑out.
Al’s Dairy Freeze – A classic ice cream and diner‑style spot for sweet treats, burgers, pizza, and comfort food favorites — great for a refreshing stop on warm days.
JD’s Tavern – A local bar & grill with a lively atmosphere, drinks, and pub‑style fare — ideal for relaxed evenings and socializing.
Mile 1 Nutrition – A highly‑rated spot for coffee, smoothies, and healthy drinks — perfect for a morning pick‑me‑up or post‑ride refreshment.
Subway – Classic sub sandwiches and quick eats right on West Main Street.
McDonald’s – Familiar fast‑food favorites like burgers, fries, and breakfast items — great for a quick bite.
John’s Shurfine – Local grocery stores where you can grab snacks, picnic supplies, sandwiches, and regional products for on‑the‑go meals.
Red Devil Roast Coffee Company – A highly‑rated coffee shop on West Main Street, perfect for morning coffee, baked goods, or just a local pick‑me‑up.
Regional Specialties – Be sure to try local ployes (buckwheat pancakes, a beloved St. John Valley specialty), creamy chowders, hearty stews, and French‑Acadian comfort dishes at nearby diners and during seasonal festivals — a true taste of Aroostook County cuisine.
Shops
Enjoy northern Maine classics, local eateries, and independent shops that capture the small‑town vibe and local flavor.
Pelletier Florist Greenhouse & Garden Center – A lovely local florist and garden center on West Main Street — find fresh flowers, plants, and many different gifts to take home or send to loved ones.
Bogan Books – A beloved local bookstore with a curated selection of books, gifts, and community favorites — perfect for browsing and finding something special to remember your visit.
John’s Shurfine & Hannaford) – The longtime local grocery stores offering fresh food, local products, and everyday items — both convenient stops for visitors and residents alike.
Main Street Style & Gifts – A local gift shop in downtown Fort Kent with souvenirs, apparel, and unique items that reflect the spirit of the St. John Valley (local visitor info).
UMFK Bookstore & Apparel – University of Maine at Fort Kent’s bookstore sells collegiate apparel, souvenirs, and branded Fort Kent items (local visitor info).
Greater Fort Kent Area Chamber of Commerce – A classic local shop offering Maine clothing and gift items — a great place to find a Fort Kent shirt or souvenir while exploring town.
Family Dollar & Dollar Tree – A few convenient shops downtown for quick shopping and essentials while exploring Fort Kent on foot.
Good Shepard Thrift Shop – A community thrift store offering secondhand clothes, household goods, and unique finds — perfect for treasure hunters and sustainable shoppers.
Parks & Recreation Facilities
Ice Skating & Recreation Facilities
Jalbert Park features outdoor ice skating and seasonal rentals, plus courts and fields for year‑round enjoyment.
Riverside Park
Relax with a picnic, walk the riverfront, or enjoy seasonal community events in this downtown green space.
Public Beaches Nearby
Visit Riverside Park or Eagle Lake Public Beach for lakeside swimming, boating, and family fun during summer months.
North Maine Woods — Outdoor Recreation
Just west and southwest of Fort Kent lies the North Maine Woods, one of the most remote and adventurous recreation areas in the Northeast — over 3.5 million acres of forested land, lakes, rivers, and logging roads offering year‑round outdoor experiences.
Camping & Wilderness Stays
The North Maine Woods is famous for its rustic camping opportunities. Visitors must check in at a staffed checkpoint and pay a use fee to enter the area. Designated campsites throughout the woods include fire rings, picnic tables, and outhouses, while primitive camping options are also available along interior roads and waterways.
Scenic Driving & Exploration
Explore miles of private forestry roads winding through deep woodland — perfect for scenic drives, wildlife watching, and reaching remote lakes and rivers. Note that logging trucks have the right‑of‑way, and visitors are expected to travel slowly and safely.
Hunting & Fishing
The North Maine Woods is a prime destination for hunters pursuing moose, black bear, deer, and game birds, with many licensed guide services available. Fishing opportunities abound in remote ponds, rivers, and streams — including trout and other native species.
Canoeing & Paddling
Paddlers can enjoy serene canoe trips on lakes and rivers deep in the woods, including routes connecting multiple waterways — perfect for multi‑day expeditions and backcountry camping.
Wildlife Viewing & Photography
From moose and deer to eagles, loons, and more, the North Maine Woods offers superb wildlife viewing and photography opportunities throughout the seasons.
Fort Kent Christmas & Holiday Events
Annual Christmas Tree Lighting
Kick off the holiday season with the community as Fort Kent’s Christmas Tree Lighting kicks off festivities with lights, music, and holiday spirit in Monument Square. Traditionally held right after Thanksgiving in late November.
Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair
Get into the Christmas spirit with the 44th Annual Holiday Arts & Crafts Fair at the UMaine Fort Kent Sports Center — one of northern Maine’s largest holiday craft shows, perfect for finding unique gifts, local art, and seasonal treats.
Festival of Trees – Fort Kent Lion’s Club
The Festival of Trees is a festive Fort Kent tradition hosted by the Lion’s Club. Dozens of beautifully decorated trees and holiday items are displayed, and visitors can purchase tickets for raffles — a fun activity for all ages and a great way to celebrate the season at Riverside Park and the Lions Pavilion.
Holiday Inflatable Scavenger Hunt
From early to mid‑December, local businesses around town participate in a fun Christmas Inflatable Scavenger Hunt — pick up a scavenger card at the Chamber office, visit participating locations to find festive inflatables, and collect stamps to win holiday prizes.
Extras Around Town
Many local shops and restaurants decorate for the season, and small community gatherings like caroling and festive window displays add to the holiday atmosphere throughout Fort Kent giving us a Hallmark like vibe!
Fort Kent isn’t just a destination — it’s a base for year‑round outdoor fun, local culture, and small‑town charm at the northern edge of Maine.
