“There are a few essential elements you find in the spirit of a Mainer; a humble appreciation of crafted things, wit dry enough you may not know when the joke ends and when it begins, and most importantly, a love for the land and the sea”
– Anthony Bourdain [quote from No Reservations, Maine S6 E8]
First Person Perspective – Camden and Surrounding Area
“Under the high mountains…against whose feet the sea doth beat”
– Captain John Smith (on first seeing Camden), 1614
We arrived at the Downtown Camden Hotel around 4pm – the entire ride along coastal Route 1 was beautiful; rocky Ireland-like coastline, post-and-beam clam shacks, crystal clear rivers, and lobster boats drifting in the slight breeze on their moorings waiting for the warmer weather.
Once we entered the town of Camden, my anxieties dissipated and a sense of great calm came over me: we were finally here. What I saw was a classic coastal Maine town untouched by time; breweries, brew pubs, antique shops, seafood shanties, dive bars, and cocktail bars; all against a beautiful backdrop of mountains – and, most importantly, incredibly friendly locals. I had become inspired, and eager to explore this uncharted, historical and unique town.
Where to Stay
**Downtown Camden Hotel** – FSS Recommended – *Best Local Boutique/Chic Hotel*
The Downtown Camden Hotel is in the heart of downtown Camden. This prime location allows you to walk anywhere. The French and Brawn marketplace is around the corner, Zoot’s coffee shop, Antiques at 10 Mechanic, and several restaurants and bars. We also like the exposed pine; it smells beautiful and looks fantastic and gives a cozy, yet rugged Maine, feeling.
One of the main reasons we lodge here is because the process is seamless. Simply book your room online, and you immediately receive a text with all the instructions and more from Amber, who is incredibly accommodating and will help you with anything you need (digital welcome packet, key code entry, check-in/check-out, parking, and so much more!). Super simple; this is our favorite spot to stay in Camden, and highly recommend!
Where to Eat/Drink
Waterfront Restaurant and Bar – *Best Chowder and Overall Coastal Ambiance*
Waterfront Restaurant and Bar is a classic coastal tavern adorned with woodcarvings, a wooden beautiful fisherman’s bar, fireplace, and historical ambiance. The weathered cedar shingles on the outside would remind you of a fisherman’s shack on the Island of Nantucket.
We stopped in because we heard the clam chowder was incredible, and that the recipe hasn’t been changed in 45 years. I took the locals’ advice and ordered a clam chowder and an Allagash White (when in Maine, right?) and was instantly impressed. The clam chowder was in my top three for “greatest of all time.”
Franny’s Bistro – *Best Farm-to-Table Food Options*
Franny’s is a classic bistro – perfect for a date night or to simply grab some quality food. Dimly lit bar and a cozy dining area on a cold, raw New England evening. We recommend you stop in for the duck confit salad and frites, and grab one of their signature cocktails or one of my all time favorite craft beers, Maine Island Trail Ale by Rising Tide Brewing.
Cuzzy’s Dive Bar – *Best Local Dive Bar*
A classic Maine dive bar where the chefs, bartenders, and locals fill their cup – a must stop for anyone who comes to Camden. Nice laid back vibe with interesting memorabilia, darts, billiards, and ice cold beer.
Long Grain Restaurant – *Best Authentic Thai Food*
Long Grain, which is directly across the street from the Downtown Camden Hotel, offers authentic Thai food. We got the pad thai, pork dumplings, and some incredible thaiwanese beer – it was very good!
16 Bay View Hotel – *Best Speakeasy Style Cocktails and Best Bartender*
The best cocktail I had while we were in Camden. The hotel reminded me of a Boston or New York speakeasy. Warm, quaint, and good strong drinks – also, our bartender was incredibly well read, made great drinks, and made us feel welcome and at home as if we were in her living room.
Lucky Betty’s – *Best Overall Vibe and Boutique Bar*
Lucky Betty’s, their motto “Cold PBR & fancy olives…Nice wine & corner store flowers…Mos Def & John Prine” Need I say more? This is a must do when you come to Camden; so much so, that next time we’re in the area, this is going to be our first stop for an ice cold beer and unique cocktail.
Lucky Betty’s is a garage and art studio turned boutique bar, and was the most comfortable and relaxing bar that we went to in Camden. The vibes were unparalleled, and the owner, Daiva Deupree was charming and incredibly hospitable. We can’t wait to go back!
What to Do
Hiking Mount Battie – *Best Outdoor Activity with an Amazing View*
Mount Battie, within Camden Hills State Park, is a 1.2 mile hike to the summit with expansive views of Camden and Penobscot Bay and a 100-year-old World War 1 observation tower. You can climb the stairs to the tower for a panoramic view.
Highly recommend this hike, as it is a small price to pay for truly amazing views – if you go in the winter, wear spikes and dress accordingly!
Go Antique-ing – Antiques at 10 Mechanic – *Best Antique Shop*
This is one of the best antique shops I have ever been to – housed in a former movie theater, they have something for everyone – go mosey around for an hour and find something cool!
Camden is a very special place – we can’t wait to come back in the summer months!
