Discover the Charm of Maine Through Its Iconic Film Settings

No stranger to the silver screen, Maine has been a coveted destination for filmmakers and storytellers alike. The state’s picturesque landscapes, charming small towns, and iconic lighthouses have starred in numerous famous films shot in Maine, as well as TV shows and books. Let’s embark on a cinematic journey through Maine, exploring its filming locations, uncovering local legends, and unveiling hidden gems.

10 Movies Filmed in Maine – A Journey Through Cinema

Maine’s diverse landscapes have served as the perfect backdrop for various genres of films, ranging from horror to comedy. Here are 10 notable films shot in the Pine Tree State:

1. “The Shawshank Redemption” (1994)  – One of the most acclaimed films of all time was shot at the Maine State Prison.
2. “In the Bedroom” (2001)  – This Oscar-nominated drama was filmed in various locations in Maine, including Camden and Rockland.
3. “Jumanji” (1995)  – Maine doubled as the fictional town of Brantford, New Hampshire in this beloved adventure film.
4. “Carrie” (1976)  – The infamous horror film, based on Stephen King’s novel, was shot in Ellsworth and Southwest Harbor.
5. “The Preacher’s Wife” (1996)  – This heartwarming film features scenes shot in Portland and North Berwick.
6. “The Cider House Rules” (1999)  – Filmed in numerous locations across Maine, including Northampton and Sandford.
7. “Message in a Bottle” (1999)  – This romantic drama showcases the beauty of Phippsburg and Bath.
8. “Forrest Gump” (1994)  – While much of the film was shot elsewhere, the running scene was filmed in Cutler, Maine.
9. “Iron Will” (1994)  – This inspiring film features scenes shot in the stunning wilderness of Millinocket.
10. “Lake Placid” (1999)  – The fictional Black Lake was actually Long Lake in Naples, Maine.

5 TV Shows Set in Maine – From Drama to Horror

Maine’s charm has also enchanted TV producers, resulting in a variety of shows set in the state. Here are 5 noteworthy TV shows filmed in Maine:

1. “Once Upon a Time” (2011-2018)  – While filmed in Canada, the story is set in the fictional town of Storybrooke, Maine.
2. “Murder, She Wrote” (1984-1996)  – The series is set in Cabot Cove, a fictional town in Maine.
3. “Haven” (2010-2015)  – This supernatural drama series is set in the fictional town of Haven, Maine.
4. “Dark Shadows” (1966-1971)  – The cult classic soap opera is set in the fictional town of Collinsport, Maine.
5. “Castle Rock” (2018-2020)  – This psychological horror series is set in the Stephen King multiverse, in the fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine.

3 Animated Films Set in Maine – Imagination Comes to Life

Maine’s enchanting landscapes have not only inspired live-action films but also animated features. Here are 3 animated films set in Maine:

1. “The Iron Giant” (1999)  – The story unfolds in the fictional town of Rockwell, Maine.
2. “The Great Mouse Detective” (1986)  – The film’s climax takes place at Buckingham Palace, which was inspired by Maine’s Victorian architecture.
3. “Pet Sematary” (1989)  – This animated adaptation of Stephen King’s novel takes place in the fictional town of Ludlow, Maine.

Famous Books Set in Maine – From Classic to Contemporary

Maine’s charm and allure have also captivated the literary world. Here are 6 famous books set in Maine, encompassing both classic and contemporary works:

Classics

1. “The Dead Zone” by Stephen King  – This chilling novel is set in the fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine.
2. “Peyton Place” by Grace Metalious  – One of the bestselling novels of its time, it’s set in a small town in Maine.
3. “Empire Falls” by Richard Russo  – This Pulitzer-winning novel is set in the fictional small town of Empire Falls, Maine.

Contemporary

1. “The Cider House Rules” by John Irving  – The story takes place in rural Maine in the first half of the twentieth century.
2. “Olive Kitteridge” by Elizabeth Strout  – This Pulitzer-winning novel is set in the fictional coastal town of Crosby, Maine.
3. “The Good Daughters” by Joyce Maynard  – This family saga takes place in the farming community of Rupert, Maine.

Exploring Maine’s Filming Locations – Where to Go

To immerse yourself in Maine’s cinematic history, there are several key locations to visit. Begin your journey at Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse that has graced numerous films. From there, explore the charming coastal towns of Camden and Rockland, the filming locations for “In the Bedroom”. Don’t miss the stunning wilderness of Millinocket, featured in “Iron Will”, or the picturesque town of Naples, the setting for “Lake Placid”.

For a more comprehensive list of must-visit filming locations, consider the following:

1. Portland Head Light  – Featured in “The Preacher’s Wife”.
2. Maine State Prison  – Filming location for “The Shawshank Redemption”.
3. Camden and Rockland  – The backdrop for “In the Bedroom”.
4. Ellsworth and Southwest Harbor  – The horror scenes in “Carrie” were shot here.
5. Phippsburg and Bath  – Featured in “Message in a Bottle”.
6. Millinocket  – The stunning wilderness serves as the backdrop for “Iron Will”.
7. Naples  – The setting for the horror-comedy “Lake Placid”.
8. Portland  – The city’s picturesque streets have been featured in numerous films.

Where to Sleep in Maine – Budget to Luxury

When it comes to accommodations, Maine offers a wide range of options to suit every budget. Here are our top picks for both budget and luxury accommodations:

Budget

1. The Inn at St. John, Portland  – This charming inn offers affordable rooms in the heart of the city.
2. Belfast Harbor Inn, Belfast  – Enjoy waterfront views on a budget at this friendly inn.
3. Flagship Inn, Boothbay Harbor  – This budget-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms and a pool.

Luxury

1. The White Barn Inn & Spa, Kennebunk  – This luxurious inn offers a tranquil setting with a renowned restaurant.
2. Camden Harbour Inn, Camden  – This boutique hotel offers luxury accommodations with stunning harbor views.
3. The Westin Harborview, Portland  – Enjoy luxury in the heart of Portland with panoramic city views.

Where to Eat in Maine – Budget to Luxury

Maine is renowned for its seafood, especially its lobster. From budget-friendly seafood shacks to upscale dining, there’s a range of culinary experiences to enjoy. Here are our top picks for both budget and luxury dining in Maine:

Budget

1. Red’s Eats, Wiscasset  – Known for their famous lobster rolls, this seafood shack is a must-visit.
2. McLoons Lobster Shack, Spruce Head Island  – Enjoy fresh lobster with stunning views of the harbor.
3. Maine Diner, Wells  – This classic diner serves up hearty meals at affordable prices.

Luxury

1. Fore Street, Portland  – This upscale restaurant offers a rustic setting with a focus on locally sourced ingredients.
2. The White Barn Inn Restaurant, Kennebunk  – Enjoy a fine dining experience in a charming barn setting.
3. Primo, Rockland  – Helmed by a James Beard Award-winning chef, this farm-to-table restaurant offers a memorable dining experience.

Best Itinerary for Exploring Maine’s Filming Locations Day by Day

To make the most of your film-themed trip to Maine, we have designed a comprehensive itinerary:

Day 1: Portland

Start your day in Portland, exploring the city’s streets that have been featured in numerous films. Visit the Portland Head Light and enjoy dinner at the Fore Street restaurant.

Day 2: Coastal Towns

Head to the charming coastal towns of Camden and Rockland, the filming locations for “In the Bedroom”. Enjoy lunch at a local seafood shack.

Day 3: Wilderness

Explore the stunning wilderness of Millinocket, the backdrop for “Iron Will”. End the day with a cozy dinner at a local inn.

Day 4: Lakeside

Visit the picturesque town of Naples, the setting for “Lake Placid”. Enjoy a boat tour of the lake before heading back to Portland.

Cryptid Legends and Curiosities

Maine is known for its local legends and cryptid creatures. The most famous is the mystery of the North Pond Hermit, a man who lived in the Maine woods for 27 years with virtually no human contact. Then there’s “Cassie”, the sea serpent rumored to live off the coast of Maine. These tales add an element of intrigue and mystery to the state.

Hidden Gems in Maine

While Maine’s popular filming locations often steal the limelight, the state is also home to several hidden gems. These include the stunning Bold Coast Trail, the charming town of Eastport, and the serene Rangeley Lakes.

What to Pack for a Trip to Maine

When packing for your trip to Maine, consider the weather (which can be unpredictable), and pack layers for varying temperatures. Don’t forget comfortable shoes, a camera, and a good guidebook.

How to Dress

In spring and fall, pack warm clothing like sweaters and jackets. In summer, light clothing and a hat are sufficient. In winter, be prepared for freezing temperatures with heavy winter clothing and thermal wear.

Transportation Tips

Getting around Maine is easiest by car, allowing you the freedom to explore at your own pace. However, Maine also has a good network of buses, trains, and ferries.

Travel Documents Needed

Ensure you have a valid ID or passport. If you’re not a U.S. citizen, you may require a visa.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a book lover, or simply a traveler looking for a unique journey, a trip to Maine offers a cinematic adventure like no other. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the fascinating world of films, TV shows, and books set in the Pine Tree State. Lights, camera, action – Maine awaits you!