Have you ever been to Wells, Maine? Are you looking for a trusted and reliable guide to explore Wells? This article is for you! Check out our local guide to Wells and explore this town in style.
The town of Wells has several distinctive features that guarantee a memorable time and experience. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend break, summer vacation, or new adventure, you’ll quickly fall in love with this place. This may even become your new home away from home. First things first, you will need a place to stay.
For a memorable stay in downtown Wells, Maine, make sure to choose the right hotel or resort. Our guide to the best Wells hotels and beach resorts can help you find the perfect accommodations.
Are you looking for a place to stay?
Wells offers a wide variety of accommodation types, from quaint bed and breakfasts to beachfront resorts and hotels, Wells has everything in between. One local standout is the Anchor Inn and Cottages, located in the heart of downtown. Recently renovated, Anchor Inn and Cottages is readily available if you’re seeking a place to spend the night, the week, or the entire summer. Bring your friends and families–there’s enough room.
Anchor Inn and Cottages
There is no alternative to the home comfort and hospitality that awaits at Anchor Inn and Cottages, Wells. Every accommodation is fully furnished with modern amenities so that you can truly enjoy all that Maine has to offer. From your front door, you can easily access some of the most adventurous areas around.
At Anchor Inn and Cottages we have everything covered, our features include:
- Spacious free parking lot
- Free WIFI for your unlimited use
- Scenic views: featuring Wells Harbor and Atlantic Avenue
- Swimming pool: a heated outdoor pool open to our guests
- Updated and modern facilities
- BBQ and Picnic Area: You may have family dinners on our property with picnic tables and gas grills in the BBQ and picnic area
- Location: we are located within a mile of Ogunquit and Wells beaches
- Trolley access: easy access to the Trolley Route which goes to downtown or the beach at affordable costs
Why do travelers pick Anchor Inn and Cottages?
Anchor Inn and Cottages is a top choice for travelers because our rooms are spacious and fitted with modern amenities, our location provides ample opportunity to explore all that southern Maine has to offer, and we are pet friendly. We provide a variety of different nọn-smoking accommodations such as cottages, suites, and rooms to fit your needs. Plus, our staff is here to welcome you and help you have the best stay possible.
Quick tips on what to pack on your visit to Wells
- To enjoy the warmth of the summer sun, you should bring sunscreen lotions, moisturizers, hats, and sunglasses
- Don’t forget to bring sweaters because it can get chilly at night
- Pack footwear that will allow you to walk in comfort
- Insect repellents for mosquitoes and ticks
- Bring your camera to capture the memories
The Third Oldest Town: Wells, Maine
Wells is the third oldest town in Maine, founded in 1643 and named after a city in Somerset, England. Steeped in a rich seaside history, the first settlers were fishermen, farmers, and traders. Through wars and other conflicts, Wells has remained a positive beacon in Maine’s history. You can learn more about Wells’ incredible history by visiting the Historical Society of Wells and Ogunquit.
10+ Fun Activities to do in Wells
1. Explore the different Wells Beaches
Wells is a beautiful resort town with many beaches and is known for its natural beauty and breathtaking vistas. A trip to the beach is an excellent way to start your holiday or vacation in this historic town. On the shore, you can locate a wide variety of shells or if you work hard enough, you might unearth a prize concealed beneath some pebbles. Summer is the most popular time to visit the beach because the water is (finally) warm and there is plenty of space to build your sand castles.
Here are five top-choice beaches in Wells you should visit:
- Wells Beach is the most popular and most visited beach in Wells. It’s great for picnicking, swimming, and sunbathing.
- Drake’s Island Beach is a sizable beach great for picnics, low-tide exploration, and admiring sunsets. This expansive, sandy beach is sometimes monitored by lifeguards and is typically less crowded than Wells Beach’s central section.
- Moody Beach is a great choice if you want to go fishing, surfing, or tide pooling, Moody Beach is a great option.
- Footbridge Beach is a quiet beach where you can unwind and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Crescent Beach is perfect for relaxing with the family while swimming and fishing. This beach is an excellent choice for spending alone time due to the ambiance, which is generally calm.
2. Go on a seafood hunt
Are you a self proclaimed foodie? Do you enjoy exploring restaurants? Do you love seafood? The best location to find authentic, delectable seafood is in Wells, Maine. This seaside town is home to a variety of exceptional eateries that go above and beyond to prepare mouthwatering seafood dishes. Start exploring right now!
Here are four of the most popular seafood dishes you need to try:
- Lobster Rolls: Wells restaurants make some of the best Lobster rolls in the United States. This is because there is a continuous fresh supply of lobsters for Wells creative chefs to use.
- Fish and Chips: A local favorite of fried fish served with french fries. Make sure you try it before leaving town.
- Clam Chowder: You can not say that you visited Wells, Maine without treating yourself to this original New England treat. Don’t forget the oyster crackers!
- Crab Cakes: A savory delicacy that you must try when visiting Wells. Give your taste buds the vacation they truly deserve with this tasty crab filled dish.
3. Go kayaking at the Webhannet River
The Webhannet River is one of the most popular places for Kayaking in Wells. The river runs into Wells Harbor before emptying into the Gulf of Maine between two jetties. It is wonderful for kayaking and seeing wildlife. When you get tired of paddling, you can rest and start fishing.
4. Explore the Nature Trails
If you are looking for a relaxing and mind-clearing activity in Wells, you should try exploring the different nature trails in town. These marked routes through the countryside are designed to bring attention to natural features. Depending on your interest, you can go there for hiking, biking, a simple walk, or birdwatching. There are many different trails to choose from, so you can find the perfect one for your fitness level.
The two most popular nature trails in Wells, Maine are:
- The Wells Jetty trails: The 1.3-kilometer Wells Jetty Trails are worth seeking out if you’re in the area between April and October. On average, it takes 14 minutes to finish. The tranquility of birding, fishing, and strolling on this natural trail are perfect.
- Tatnic Wood Nature trails: Tatnic Wood Trails are the spot to go if you’re looking for a place to enjoy horseback riding and hiking close to Wells, Maine. All seasons can be used to visit this unique wildlife trail. It’s a beautiful place to stay. The length of this trail is roughly 1.6 kilometers and about 20 minutes are needed to finish it. In some areas, dogs are allowed to roam freely.
5. Go Cross Country Skiing
Cross-country skiing is available in Wells with a variety of trail heads. You can choose a pathway based on your expertise and degree of fitness from among the many options available. Cross-country skiing is a great winter activity for exploring Wells.
6. Watch Wildlife of Migratory Birds
How have you ever taken the time to watch migratory birds? Here in Wells, one of the best nature points where you’ll watch migratory birds is at the Rachel Carson National Wildlife Refuge. See wildlife like birds, fish, deer, and much more. There are also some endangered species housed here. You can also hike along the one-mile Carson Trail, which meanders through pine woods and offers views of tidal salt marshes. Fishing, boating, or hunting (by refuge permit only) are also available.
Look out for the following migratory birds when you visit:
- Red-tailed Hawks
- American Goldfinches
- Bald Eagles
- Tundra Peregrines
- Merlins
7. Explore Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve
What do you know about estuarine life? After visiting this 2,250 acres of pristine property you will see species you didn’t know existed. It is situated at Laudholm Farm Road off U.S. Route 1 at Wells, Maine. The trails are beautiful and well-kept.
It is a fantastic location for getting out and enjoying nature. There are a few pathways to explore, including a pleasant walk along Drake’s Island. The nature trails that lead into the woods are signposted and simple to follow, but keep an eye out for ticks. Along the walk, there are also several birdwatching opportunities and an abundance of chipmunks.
8. Buy Souvenirs at Antique Shops
Wells is home to several antique shops which is why Wells is called the antique capital of Maine. Who knows? You may find that valuable piece of antiquity that you have been looking for or end up on Antiques Roadshow. Wells is home to many exciting and well-stocked antique shops where you can find souvenirs, such as Maine lobster traps, nautical items, and much more.
Some of the most popular antique shops are:
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- Reeds Antique and Collectibles
- Bo-mar Hall Antiques and Collectibles
- Anytime Antiques
9. Visit Historic Theaters and Art Galleries
If you are a lover of beautiful arts, then Southern Maine is the place to visit. It is home to many historic theaters and art galleries. It is the one place in America where you can learn and understand authentic American culture.
Many of their outstanding theaters and art galleries may be found in the nearby town of Ogunquit, Maine. The Ogunquit Museum of American Art, Maine’s oldest museum, is located there.
Some of the most famous theaters and art galleries you should visit are:
- Perkins Cove Galleries: A collection of seven art galleries in Perkins Cove
- Ogunquit Playhouse: This is one of the country’s most popular regional theaters that features top productions from May – October in tandem with their Arts Academy
- Ogunquit Museum of American Art: Visit Maine’s oldest museum, which exhibits a collection of American art dating from the 18th century to the present day
10. Visit the famous Spiller Farm
Have you ever seen an apple tree with so many apples you wondered how it could stand? Spiller Farm, a 200-year-old farm, has been selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and other farm produce to local Farmers Markets in Wells, Maine since 1894. During your visit, you can come here to pick fresh apples and meet all the farm animals.
11. Take Boat Trips and Tours
Taking a boat trip is one of downtown Wells’ most unique and exciting activities. There are many different boat tours you can take. You can tour the harbor, watch whales, or take a sunset cruise and enjoy Wells from the waters.
Some of the most popular boat tours are:
- Whale Watching Tour
- Sage Fishing Charters
- Apex Charter and Sunset Cruise
- Wells Harbour Tour
Final Thoughts
Wells, Maine is a beautiful town with many activities for everyone to enjoy. Whether you are a foodie, a beach goer, or nature lover, Wells has you and your family covered. Interested in learning more about the Anchor Inn and Cottages? Please do not hesitate to contact us. We will be happy to help.
Are you getting excited?
Book your stay at the Anchor Inn and Cottages to begin your adventure today!
