The ULTIMATE Guide to Caribou, Maine | Top Attractions, Dining, & Outdoor Adventures
- Gerry Caron
- 2 days ago
- 5 min read
The ULTIMATE Guide to Caribou, Maine | Things to Do, See, & Experience
Tucked into the northern reaches of Aroostook County, just 15 miles from the Canadian border, Caribou, Maine, is a four-season destination with a small-town heart and a big outdoor spirit. Known as the “Most Northeastern City in the U.S.,” Caribou is a hub for outdoor recreation, rich history, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re looking for snowmobiling on world-class trails, paddling the Aroostook River, hiking scenic landscapes, or enjoying local festivals, the ultimate guide to Caribou delivers year-round adventures.
Why Visit Caribou, Maine?
Caribou is a gateway to Aroostook County’s wilderness, offering world-class snowmobiling, endless trails, vibrant community events, and a warm welcome no matter the season. Whether you’re coming for winter sports, summer paddling, or fall foliage, this northern gem offers something truly Maine. Caribou serves as a hub for agriculture, tourism, and spirited community events that reflect its rich heritage and resilient spirit Visit Maine.
Outdoor Adventures That Deliver
Trail systems and groomed paths: Navigate the 28-mile Aroostook Valley Trail or link up with the state’s vast 1,600-mile snowmobile network for ATVing, mountain biking, and winter excursions Visit Maine
Cross-country skiing made easy: Choose between lit night trails at the Caribou High School Ski Center or scenic routes at the Caribou Country Club. The Maine Winter Sports Center hosts skiing events throughout the year Wikipedia
Wildlife and wilderness: Track moose and marvel at wetlands in the Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge, or get on the water via the Northern Maine Water Trail Visit Maine
History on wheels: Feel the roar at Spud Speedway, a classic 3/8-mile dirt oval hosting summer stock-car races under the lights Travel + Discover Maine.
Festivals, Cultural Moments & Indoor Delights
Seasonal celebrations: Keep your calendar open for the Mawiomi of Tribes (Mi’kmaq cultural festival), Caribou DustBowl, and The County’s Oktoberfest among many others visitaroostook.com+1.
Thursdays on Sweden Street: This summer concert series shuts down Sweden Street alternately for music, food, and artisan vendors cariboumaine.org.
Caribou Cares About Kids: A beloved community event (July 24–26, 2025) packed with family fun and tradition cariboumaine.org.
Museum offerings: Explore over 10,000 artifacts at the Caribou Historical Center & Museum and paleontological wonders at the Nylander Museum—plus architectural gems like the Gray Memorial United Methodist Church cariboumaine.org
Caribou Marathon – A certified Boston Marathon qualifier, held every September.
Maine Maple Sunday – Celebrated in March at local sugar shacks.
Winter Carnival – Includes sled dog races, snowmobile poker runs, and family activities.
Top Attractions & Things to Do in Caribou, Maine
1. Snowmobiling Capital of Maine
Caribou boasts over 1,600 miles of meticulously groomed trails, including the Interconnected Trail System (ITS). Riders can access ITS 83 and ITS 90 directly from town. Winter brings pristine powder, cozy warming huts, and a friendly riding community.
Tip: The Caribou Snowmobile Club keeps trails in top condition — check their trail reports before riding.
Caribou Snowmobile Club
2. Nylander Museum of Natural History
A hidden gem featuring geology, paleontology, and local wildlife exhibits collected by Olof Nylander, a Swedish naturalist who made Caribou his home. Great for families and history buffs alike.
📍 444 Main Street, Caribou, ME
📞 (207) 493-4209 - Nylander Museum
3. Caribou Wellness & Recreation Center
Offering an indoor pool, fitness center, gymnasium, and programs for all ages — perfect for rainy days or off-season visits.
📍 55 Bennett Drive, Caribou, ME
📞 (207) 493-4224
4. Aroostook River & Outdoor Adventures
In warmer months, enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and fishing along the Aroostook River. The riverfront is peaceful and ideal for spotting wildlife like bald eagles and moose.
5. Caribou Performing Arts Center
From live theater to concerts, the PAC is a cultural anchor for the region. Check the schedule for local productions, traveling performances, and community events.
📍 308 Sweden Street, Caribou, ME
📞 (207) 493-4272
Where to Eat in Caribou, Maine
Frederick’s Southside Restaurant – Comfort food and hearty portions.
📍 912 Main St.
|📞 (207) 498-6161
Par & Grill Restaurant – Great burgers and casual dining.
📍 99 Access Hwy
| 📞 (207) 493-3333
Reno’s Pizza House – Local favorite for pizza and Italian dishes.
📍 20 Sweden St
| 📞 (207) 498-2328
New brew with local flavor: The Northern Maine Brewing Company offers locally crafted beers paired with hearty meals—right in downtown Caribou The University of Maine.
Farm experiences: Goughan’s Berry Farm delights year-round with pick-your-own produce, ice cream, a corn maze, and more Visit Maine
Where to Stay in Caribou, Maine
Visitor Information
📍 Caribou City Office & Visitor Information Center
25 High Street, Caribou, ME 04736
📞 (207) 493-3324Official Caribou Maine
Website »
What to Do in the Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond: Your Complete Guide to Outdoor Adventure & Local Attractions
Planning a trip to the Moosehead Lake region in Maine? You're in for an unforgettable experience packed with adventure, breathtaking natural beauty, and cozy lodging options. From high-adrenaline ATV trails to peaceful paddles on glassy waters, the Moosehead Lake area is a four-season playground perfect for outdoor lovers, families, and anyone looking to unplug and explore.
Want more insider tips? Discover top recommendations at Moose River Lookout, your go-to resource for:
🛶 Boating & paddling routes
🎣 Fishing hotspots
🏕️ Wilderness camping sites
🥾 Trail maps for hiking & nature walks
🍽️ Local dining & shopping recommendations
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
🏡 Where to Stay: Moose River Lookout – Your Basecamp for Adventure
Located in Rockwood, Maine, Moose River Lookout is the ultimate vacation home rental for adventurers and nature lovers alike. Nestled on the Moose River, this cozy home features:
Private Dock with access to Moosehead Lake
3 Bedrooms | 2 Baths | Sleeps 7
Free WiFi & TV
Backup Generator
Easy driveway access for trailers & ATVs
Direct access to ITS66 Snowmobile Trails
Year-round availability for summer AND winter sports
Whether you're hiking Blue Ridge, casting a line in the river, or hitting the snowmobile trails—Moose River Lookout is where your Maine vacation begins.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine a Vacation Home Rental, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
Caribou is a gateway to Aroostook County’s wilderness, offering world-class snowmobiling, endless trails, vibrant community events, and a warm welcome no matter the season.
