Where to Stay

Belfast (11 miles from Ironwood)

Belfast is a quiet coastal town overlooking Penobscot Bay. It has a charming downtown and residential streets with many lovely old homes which were once sea captain's mansions.

Eat at Young’s Lobster Pound (this is as real "Maine" as it gets), or have dinner at Darby’s, a quaint pub restaurant with a vintage atmosphere. Enjoy breakfast or lunch at Chase’s Daily, a fabulous vegetarian restaurant that even sells produce and bakery goods in the back. Visit the Belfast Co-Op, a natural food store that’s a throw back to the 70’s when Belfast was taken over by hippies (many are still around). They have a small restaurant-style counter that’s perfect for take-out or picnic lunches.

Where to stay in Belfast:

Camden (21 miles from Ironwood)

Camden is a charming quintessential New England town. It is located on Penobscot Bay, where windjammers and modern sailboats glide past each other in the lovely harbor. Behind the town are the rolling green hills of Camden State Park. The village sits prettily between the two and has many good restaurants, cute shops and great inns. Have a wonderful dinner at Francine’s Bistro (our personal favorite). Or go to Natalie’s at the Mill for a beautifully prepared meal. Enjoy dinner and the view at Atlantica Restaurant or at The Waterfront. Grab a quick bite at Cappy’s Chowder House or have a delicious sandwich at the Camden Deli.

Where to stay in Camden:

Searsport (18 miles from Ironwood)

Searsport is a small town with an extensive seafaring history. Many masted schooners were built here. Searport is both a fishing town and an active sea port. The architecture is beautiful and you will enjoy seeing the many sea captains homes. Searsport is also the antique capital of Maine, with many shops and a large outdoor flea market. Visit the Penobscot Marine Museum, have a picnic on the ocean at Moose Point State Park or take a trip to Sears Island, one of the largest uninhabited islands on the East Coast. Have a fine dinner at the Rhumb Line, or have a casual meal at The Mariners or at Anglers Restaurant. Periwinkles Bakery has delicious European-style pastries and light lunches.

Where to stay in Searsport: