Overview

Scarborough’s large salt marshes inspired Abenaki Indians to name it “Owascoag”, which roughly translates to “a place of much grass.” The 350-year-old town is home to the largest saltwater marsh in Maine, and at least 56 square miles of the finest shoreline and beaches. Its unique landscape helped shape the development of world-class shopping locations and a multitude of recreational venues. The premier community has become a favorite destination among outdoor enthusiasts, businesses, and families. Scarborough is considered one of Maine’s fastest growing communities, and can be found on the southern coast of Cumberland County. Scarborough’s robust but tranquil lifestyle is an outstanding place to live, work, and play in Maine.

Restaurants and Dining

Scarborough has an enviable array of eateries, cafes, and restaurants. Whether it is the freshest seafood, hot dog, or gourmet pizza, you will surely find something that piques your fancy. For more than ninety years, the Bayley Family has been serving the freshest lobster in Maine. Bayley’s Lobster Pound is the result of generations of hard work. A delectable menu of shrimp, haddock, scallops, steamer clams, premium Maine lobsters, and other Maine seafood can be found in the restaurant. Famous Daves is said to have America’s best barbeque. The Black Point Inn is the quintessential seaside resort of the state. The historic, grand hotel has easy access to the nearby Portland Jetport. Nestled on a beautifully landscaped property, the hotel is surrounded by Maine’s changing seascape and majestic cliffs.

Best Hotel Accommodations

Imagine waking up to a sight of snowy egrets as they carefully explore the marshes, or stepping out of the door and relax with your morning load of coffee—such is a sight shared by most of Scarborough’s hotels. Some even say a stay-cation within one of Maine’s hotels is worth the trip. The quality accommodations range from simple campsites to historic seaside inns, most of which are locally owned. Motels and national brand hotels can also be found in the city, most of which cater to big families. Budget hotels include Bayley’s Camping Resort and Breakers Inn. Upscale options include TownePlace Suites by Marriott, Homewood Suites by Hilton, and the Holiday House Inn & Motel. All of these offer complimentary breakfast buffets, wireless internet access, newspapers, and parking spaces. Book your Scarborough Hotels with Reservations.com.

Tourist Attractions

Scarborough’s history has been painted beautifully by many of its local artists. The landmarks continue to shape the city’s 365-year-old landscape. Prouts Neck is home to Winslow Homer’s paintings and studio. Tourists can also visit the Scarborough Historical Society to see the depictions of Owascoag natives. The Hunnewell House is the city’s oldest landmark, and was once ambushed by native Indians. The Civil War Monument can be found in the city’s Dunstan area, which commemorates the heroism of at least 161 civil war soldiers.

Things to Do

Music lovers will find refuge in Scarborough Community Chamber’s offerings. The chamber offers seven-week concert series for free, which are usually held at the Memorial Park. Music from the Beatles to the late eighties is covered by the event from July to August. NASCAR fans will love watching races at the premier short-track speedway in New England, which opens from April to September. Though the NASCAR race track is only for professionals and champion racers, tourists can test their own speed limits at the Maine Indoor Karting, located at 23 Washington Avenue. Harness and thoroughbred racing can also be watched at the Scarborough Downs. Tourists can also experience New England’s unique bowling game, Candlepins.