Things To Do
in Orono
Orono is a small town located in Maine, United States, known for being home to the University of Maine's flagship campus. The town has a picturesque setting along the Stillwater River, with plenty of outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. Orono has a close-knit community feel, with a mix of students, families, and retirees calling the town home.
Residents enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with access to amenities like local shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the University of Maine’s Page Farm and Home Museum. Enjoy the beautiful nature trails and gardens that surround you.
Visit the Orono Brewing Company for a taste of local craft beers and a tour of their brewery. Relax on their outdoor patio and enjoy some local bites.
End your day with dinner at a cozy restaurant in downtown Orono. Take a scenic stroll along the Stillwater River for a serene evening view.
Kick off the day with a hike in the Orono Town Forest, where you can explore miles of lush trails. Keep an eye out for local wildlife as you wander through the peaceful woods.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at the Highland Green Park, where you can relax and take in the surrounding nature. After lunch, rent a canoe or kayak at the nearby Penobscot River.
Savor dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that sources ingredients locally. Catch the sunset from the water or at a scenic lookout point.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic natural beauty with access to outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and kayaking.
- Close-knit community with a friendly atmosphere.
- Good educational institutions, including the University of Maine located nearby.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger urban areas.
- Low crime rates contributing to a safe environment.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors.
- Harsh winters with heavy snowfall may deter some individuals.
- Limited entertainment and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Potential for isolation due to rural nature.
- Public transportation options may be minimal.
Best Activities in Orono
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful wetlands and diverse ecosystems at the Orono Bog Boardwalk, featuring a well-maintained trail with educational signage throughout.
Enjoy a day on the water by kayaking on Pushaw Lake, where you can relax and take in the scenic views of the surrounding nature.
Take advantage of Orono's extensive network of biking trails, perfect for cyclists of all skill levels looking to explore the area.
Try your luck fishing in the nearby Penobscot River, a popular spot for anglers looking to catch bass and other local fish.
Pack a picnic and enjoy the green spaces on the University of Maine campus, complete with beautiful views and walking paths.
In the winter, embrace the snowy weather by snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, or sledding at local parks.
With its rich biodiversity, Orono is a great place for wildlife watching, where you can spot various birds and other animals in their natural habitat.
Places to Visit in Orono
Visit one of these nice places.
This scenic boardwalk offers stunning views of the unique bog ecosystem. Visitors can capture the serene beauty of the wetlands and diverse plant life.
The architecture and surrounding landscape provide great photo opportunities, especially during performances and events.
A picturesque setting for lakeside photos, with beautiful sunsets and recreational activities adding to the scenic views throughout the year.
This area offers hiking trails with varying elevations, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and excellent photo spots, especially in fall.
Great views of the airstrip and surrounding areas. Visitors can catch unique shots of small aircraft and beautiful skies.
Just a short drive from Orono, this waterfront area features scenic views of the Penobscot River and the historic Fort Knox, ideal for photography.
This forest offers trails through lush greenery, with plenty of spots for nature photography and capturing wildlife in their natural habitat.
Food in Orono
Orono Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic New England dish, the Lobster Roll in Orono features succulent lobster meat tucked into a buttered and grilled split-top bun, often served with a side of coleslaw and fries. One popular spot to enjoy this delicacy is at the Maine Oyster Company.
Must-Try!
Maine is famous for its wild blueberries, and a must-try local dessert is the Blueberry Pie. Made with sweet, juicy blueberries in a flaky crust, it’s a delightful treat commonly found at the Pat's Pizza Orono.
Indulge in a Maple-Kissed Sundae, a delightful sweet treat featuring creamy vanilla ice cream drizzled with locally sourced maple syrup. You can savor this delectable dessert at the Black Bear Brewing Company.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit the Orono Farmers' Market to discover a fantastic array of fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and local crafts. It’s a great place to sample delectable street food and engage with the community.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Orono is located in a beautiful natural environment, and residents value outdoor spaces. Be mindful of littering and always follow local regulations regarding parks and natural areas.
Participating in local events and volunteering are common practices in Orono. Showing interest in community activities helps build rapport and demonstrates respect for local culture.
Engaging politely with locals is important. Use greetings like 'hello' and 'thank you,' and be prepared for friendly conversations. People appreciate when newcomers show a willingness to interact respectfully.
Safety
Tipping in Orono
Ensure a smooth experience
In Orono, as in many parts of the United States, tipping is a customary practice to reward service workers in the hospitality and restaurant industries. It is generally expected to tip between 15% to 20% of the total bill, depending on the quality of service. For other services like haircuts or taxi rides, a similar percentage is typically given.
Payment practices in Orono include a variety of methods, such as cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment systems. Local businesses typically accept major credit cards, and contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, online payment platforms are used for e-commerce transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring in Orono (March to May) is marked by mild temperatures and blossoming nature. Expect daytime highs between 50°F to 70°F. It's a great time for outdoor activities, with blooming flowers and a vibrant atmosphere.
Summer (June to August) is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging 70°F to 85°F. This season is perfect for enjoying local parks, lakes, and various outdoor festivals. Expect longer days with plenty of sunshine.
Fall (September to November) features cooler temperatures ranging from 40°F to 70°F and stunning autumn foliage. It's an excellent time for hiking and enjoying scenic views, as well as local harvest festivals.
Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing (20°F to 30°F). Expect snow and opportunities for winter sports such as skiing and snowshoeing, as well as cozy indoor activities.
Orono at Night
Hiking in Orono
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful 0.5 mile long boardwalk through the Orono Bog, offering scenic views of wetland flora and fauna.
A 700-acre forest with a variety of trails for hikers of all levels, featuring serene forest environments and scenic views.
A picturesque walking path along the Penobscot River, perfect for a leisurely hike and enjoying waterfront views.
A historic and peaceful area with several looping trails, allowing for a reflective hiking experience amidst beautiful landscapes.
A nature center with trails that lead through woodlands and wetlands, offering a chance to observe local wildlife.
Aiports
How to reach Orono by plane.
Located approximately 12 miles from Orono, this airport offers commercial flights and serves as a key gateway for the region.
Located about 130 miles south of Orono, this is the largest airport in Maine, providing flights to various domestic destinations.
Located approximately 140 miles from Orono, this major international airport serves as a hub for domestic and international flights.
Situated about 85 miles from Orono, this airport offers limited flights and is one of the larger airports in Aroostook County.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly European descent, making up the majority of the population.
Includes individuals of Asian descent, particularly those from East and Southeast Asia.
Individuals of Hispanic or Latino origin, which can include a range of ethnicities.
Includes individuals of African descent.
Individuals identifying as belonging to two or more racial categories.
Includes individuals of Indigenous descent, native to the Americas.
Individuals with origins from the Pacific Islands.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is a popular sport in Orono, with local high school teams competing at various levels and community leagues available for different age groups.
Soccer has gained significant popularity in Orono, with youth leagues and school teams actively participating in competitions and fostering community involvement.
Cross country running is a well-supported sport, with teams participating in regional competitions and promoting fitness and teamwork among students.
Ice hockey is a favored winter sport in Orono, with youth leagues and school teams bringing together players and fans throughout the season.
Track and field events are popular in Orono's schools, providing students with a variety of athletic opportunities and competitive experiences.
American football is a traditional sport in Orono, with high school teams enjoying strong community support and participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Orono.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Orono’s culinary scene includes a multitude of eateries that cater to vegetarian and vegan diets, showcasing creative plant-based dishes and options that prominently feature the region’s abundant fresh produce.
Individuals with gluten sensitivities will find a variety of gluten-free offerings across many dining establishments in Orono, ensuring a pleasant and inclusive dining experience.