Contents
Best Things to Do in Bridgton, Maine
Once you’ve settled into your Inn, spend a day exploring Bridgton’s natural beauty, shopping, and dining. Bridgton is nestled within Cumberland County, Maine. It offers a peek into quintessential New England charm with its rich history and strong community ties. This town, spanning around 52 square miles, sits proudly in Maine’s Lakes Region, distinguished by its scenic lakes, lush woodlands, and rolling hills. Bridgton’s geography sets a picturesque stage that seems to invite exploration and appreciation of its natural beauty.
Where to Stay: Top Bridgton Maine Inns
Are There Hotels in Bridgton, Maine?
The short answer is no — Bridgton doesn’t have chain hotels or big-box motels. But that’s part of its charm. Instead, you’ll find small inns, motels, and B&Bs that reflect the character of Maine’s Lakes Region.
Here is a curated list of some of the highest-rated inns and bed & breakfasts in Bridgton and nearby towns. Each offers its own character—whether it’s a Victorian-style inn on Main Street, a family-friendly lakeside resort, or a historic B&B with a long tradition of hospitality.
👉 Check-out: Top Rated Inns and B&Bs in Bridgton, Maine
Outdoor Adventures
Highland Lake Beach
A sandy lakeside escape perfect for swimming, kayaking, and family picnics.
Highland Lake – originally known as Crotched Pond, is a popular lake in Bridgton, Maine, known for its recreational opportunities and scenic views of the White Mountains. The lake is approximately 1,334 acres, with more than 16 miles of shoreline, two coves, and multiple islands to explore.
The lake is ideal for swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and water-skiing. A public beach and boat launch, located near downtown Bridgton, provide easy access for visitors.
Long Lake
Stretching 11 miles, Long Lake is a boating and fishing paradise. Rent a kayak, pontoon, or paddleboard, or simply enjoy the quiet coves and picnic areas along the shoreline. Sunsets here are unforgettable.
Bridgton Highlands Country Club
An 18-hole public course offering golf, tennis, and stunning views of Pleasant Mountain and the White Mountains. Practice facilities, lessons, and community events make it a local favorite.
Bald Pate Mountain Preserve
This 400-acre preserve features trails through pine forests, open meadows, and rocky ridges. The summit rewards hikers with panoramic lake and mountain views. Trails are open year-round for hiking, birding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing.
Moose Pond
Just outside town, this 13-mile pond is popular for kayaking, fishing, and taking in dramatic views of Pleasant Mountain. The lake’s northern end is a wilder area, offering opportunities to spot various forms of bird and wildlife.
Hiking – Pleasant Mountain, southern Maine’s tallest peak, has miles of trails for all skill levels, with summit views of the White Mountains.
Arts & Culture
- Magic Lantern Theater: – A Bridgton icon since 1929, this four-screen theater blends history with modern entertainment. Enjoy first-run films, independent movies, and live events in a nostalgic setting.
- Bridgton Historical Society & Museum: Step back in time with exhibits on Bridgton’s farming, industry, and settlement history. Vintage clothing, photographs, and tools bring the past to life.
- Rufus Porter Museum of Art & Ingenuity – Celebrating the 19th-century muralist, inventor, and founder of Scientific American, this museum highlights Porter’s artwork and inventive genius through interactive exhibits and workshops.
- Pondicherry Park & Bob Dunning Memorial Bridge – This 66-acre downtown preserve offers easy trails, birdwatching, and the photogenic covered wooden bridge honoring local historian Bob Dunning.
- Gallery 302 – A cooperative gallery on Main Street showcasing paintings, sculpture, photography, and jewelry by local artists. Rotating exhibits and workshops make it a hub for creativity.
- Bridgton Arts & Crafts Fair – An annual summer event celebrating local artisans with handmade goods, live music, and family activities.
- Lakes Environmental Association EcoCenter – Learn about lake conservation and local ecology through interactive exhibits and seasonal programs.
Shopping & Dining
Bridgton’s Main Street is perfect for an afternoon of strolling
Renys Bridgton
Renys Bridgton is a popular, family-owned department store chain in Maine, est. in 1952; the Bridgton location is a well-established landmark in the town center. Considered a “Maine adventure,” the store offers a wide range of goods at discounted prices, including closeouts and overruns from major brands.
What you’ll find: The store is a local department store offering high-quality clothing, gifts, housewares, shoes, and brand-name goods for all seasons. It was renovated and expanded to 34,000 square feet in 2008. Location: 151 Main St, Bridgton, ME 04009.
207 Trading
Treasure-hunters will love browsing vintage jewelry, furniture, textiles, and quirky collectibles. This multi-vendor antique and collectibles group shop has recently changed locations.
Dining in Bridgton
- Black Horse Tavern – Rustic, lodge-style restaurant known for prime rib, burgers, seafood, and craft beer. Cozy fireplace in winter, patio dining in summer.
- Beth’s Kitchen Café – A local favorite for breakfast, baked goods, coffee, and brunch classics with vegan and gluten-free options.
- Bridgton House of Pizza (Bhop & Bar) – Bridgton House of Pizza has been in business since 1988.
- Ancora Italian Kitchen – a family-owned restaurant known for its farm-to-table approach to classic Italian cuisine, featuring fresh, house-made pastas, entrees, and wood-fired pizzas.
- Standard Gastropub (craft beer + comfort food)
- Vivo Country Italian Kitchen (rustic Italian cuisine)
🍽️ Check-out our Curated – Food & Beverage Guide for Lovell, Fryeburg & Bridgton, Maine
Visiting Bridgton Academy
Another key reason guests search for “hotels in Bridgton Maine” is to visit Bridgton Academy, one of New England’s most respected college preparatory schools for young men. Families visiting campus for admissions tours, athletic events, or drop-off/pick-up weekends often choose the Center Lovell Inn as their home base.
We’re just 25 minutes away — close enough for convenience, yet offering a quiet, scenic retreat where families can relax after busy school events.
Why Stay at Center Lovell Inn Instead of a Bridgton Hotel
- No actual hotels in Bridgton: Inns and B&Bs provide the real lodging experience here.
- 25 minutes away: Easy access to Bridgton’s shops, restaurants, and attractions.
- Better than a hotel: Guests enjoy hearty breakfasts, lake and mountain views, and the historic charm of our Inn.
- Private beach access on Kezar Lake: A bonus you won’t find at any Bridgton hotel.
Plan Your Bridgton Getaway
So, while there are no chain hotels in Bridgton, Maine, there are plenty of places to stay that offer far more character and comfort. Make the Center Lovell Inn your lodging base — enjoy Kezar Lake by morning, explore Bridgton by day, and return to a cozy, historic inn by night.
👉 Book Your Stay at Center Lovell Inn and discover the best of Bridgton and the Maine Lakes Region.