Imagine stepping into a time machine, but instead of a clunky metal box, it’s the entire state of Maine.
These 13 gems will whisk you back to the glitz and glamour of the 1920s faster than you can say “old sport.”
1. Victoria Mansion (Portland)
If Gatsby had a summer home in Maine, this would be it.
The Victoria Mansion in Portland is a jaw-dropping Italian villa-style house that screams “I have more money than I know what to do with.”
Built in the 1860s, it’s like the 1920s’ cooler, older cousin.
Walking through its doors is like stepping into a time capsule of opulence.
The interiors are so lavishly decorated, you’ll feel underdressed even in your fanciest pajamas.
With its ornate plasterwork, intricate wall paintings, and enough gold leaf to make King Midas blush, it’s a feast for the eyes and a nightmare for the cleaning staff.
2. The Strand Theatre (Rockland)
The Strand Theatre in Rockland is where the cool cats of the 1920s would have hung out if they had a time machine.
This art deco beauty has been dazzling moviegoers since 1923, probably with the same popcorn.
The marquee lights up the night like a beacon of nostalgia, calling all flappers and dapper dans to come and enjoy a show.
It’s so authentic, you half expect to see Charlie Chaplin waddle out of the front doors.
Just remember, if you hear Al Capone is in town, it’s probably best to skip the late show.
3. The Colony Hotel (Kennebunkport)
The Colony Hotel in Kennebunkport is like a grand old dame who refuses to age.
Perched majestically on a bluff overlooking the Atlantic, it’s been serving up views and vintage vibes since 1914.
With its pristine white exterior and perfectly manicured lawns, it’s the kind of place where you’d expect to see people playing croquet in full 1920s attire.
The pool area is so swanky, you’ll feel compelled to wear a full-body swimsuit and one of those jaunty little caps.
Just don’t try to sneak in your bathtub gin – the staff might not appreciate your dedication to historical accuracy.
4. Norumbega Inn (Camden)
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like royalty (and let’s face it, who hasn’t?), the Norumbega Inn in Camden is your ticket to temporary aristocracy.
This stone castle looks like it was plucked straight out of a fairy tale and plonked down on the Maine coast.
Built in 1886, it’s got more turrets than a chess set and enough Victorian charm to make even the most hardened cynic swoon.
It’s the perfect spot for living out your Downton Abbey fantasies, minus the family drama and period-appropriate plumbing.
5. Portland Observatory (Portland)
The Portland Observatory is like the hipster of historical buildings – it was cool long before it was cool to be old.
Built in 1807, it’s been keeping an eye on Portland’s comings and goings for over two centuries.
This octagonal tower looks like it could be hiding a secret society of 1920s time travelers.
Climb to the top, and you’ll be rewarded with views that’ll make your Instagram followers green with envy.
Just don’t be surprised if you start speaking in old-timey sailor lingo on your way down.
6. Bar Harbor Inn (Bar Harbor)
The Bar Harbor Inn is the kind of place where you’d expect to see flappers doing the Charleston on the lawn.
This grand old lady has been holding court over Frenchman Bay since the 1800s, and she’s aged like a fine wine.
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With its sprawling grounds and ocean views, it’s the perfect spot for a Gatsby-esque soirée.
Just be careful not to trip over your beaded dress or get your spats caught in the lawn chairs.
And remember, if someone offers you some bathtub gin, it’s probably best to politely decline.
7. Poland Spring Resort (Poland)
Poland Spring Resort is like the Fountain of Youth, if the Fountain of Youth came with golf courses and a museum.
This place has been around since 1794, which means it was already ancient history by the time the 1920s rolled around.
The resort’s grand buildings and expansive grounds make you feel like you should be wearing white flannel and discussing the stock market.
Just don’t be surprised if you find yourself inexplicably craving bottled water – the resort sits on the famous Poland Spring.
8. Eastland Park Hotel (Portland)
The Eastland Park Hotel in Portland is like that friend who’s always bragging about their glow-up.
Originally opened in 1927, it’s recently had a facelift that would make a Hollywood starlet jealous.
Now known as The Westin Portland Harborview, it still oozes 1920s charm, but with modern amenities.
It’s the best of both worlds – you can pretend you’re a jazz age socialite while still enjoying Wi-Fi and indoor plumbing.
Just try not to get too confused when your smartphone buzzes in your flapper dress pocket.
9. Ogunquit Playhouse (Ogunquit)
The Ogunquit Playhouse is where the 1920s come alive – literally.
This theater has been putting on shows since 1933, making it just a smidge too young for our theme, but we’ll let it slide because it’s just that fabulous.
With its classic summer stock charm, it’s the kind of place where you half expect to see vaudeville acts warming up backstage.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself humming show tunes and practicing your jazz hands on the way out.
10. The Abbe Museum (Bar Harbor)
The Abbe Museum in Bar Harbor is like a time machine within a time machine.
Founded in 1926 (hello, Roaring Twenties!), it’s dedicated to showcasing the history and culture of Maine’s Native peoples.
While the museum itself might transport you to the 1920s, its exhibits will take you even further back in time.
It’s like historical inception – just don’t expect Leonardo DiCaprio to show up and explain the plot to you.
11. Bowdoin College Museum of Art (Brunswick)
The Bowdoin College Museum of Art is proof that you can be both smart and beautiful.
Housed in a building that looks like it was plucked straight out of ancient Rome, it’s been classing up the joint since 1894.
Walking up those steps, you’ll feel like you should be wearing a toga instead of your flapper dress.
But don’t worry, the art inside spans all eras, including some swanky 1920s pieces.
Just try not to get too excited and attempt a Charleston in the galleries.
12. Merrill Auditorium (Portland)
Merrill Auditorium in Portland is like that friend who’s always bragging about their makeover.
Built in 1912, it got a facelift in 1997 that would make a Hollywood starlet jealous.
But don’t let its modern amenities fool you – this place still oozes early 20th-century charm.
It’s the kind of venue where you’d expect to see Gershwin himself tickling the ivories.
Just resist the urge to shout “23 skidoo!” during the quiet parts of the performance.
13. Portland Museum of Art (Portland)
The Portland Museum of Art is like a layer cake of architectural delights.
The main building, built in 1911, exudes that perfect early 20th-century charm.
But wait, there’s more! It’s connected to the McLellan House, which dates back to 1801.
It’s like a Russian nesting doll of historical buildings, each one more charming than the last.
Just be careful not to get so caught up in the architecture that you forget to look at the art.
And remember, no matter how authentic your 1920s costume is, the “do not touch” signs still apply to you.
So there you have it, folks – 13 spots in Maine where you can pretend you’re starring in your own version of “Midnight in Paris.”
Just don’t blame me if you come back speaking like a 1920s newsie.