Things to do
a bunch of bars and coffee shops where you can sit back and enjoy a cozy spot for a spell. The town also known for its many festivals like The Rangeley Snowdeo, Oquossoc Day and the Blueberry Festival, all offering great food, great live music, and fun-filled vibe that locals and visitors alike can take part in. Beyond the postcard views lies a town that is steeped in history and authentically Maine..
Rangeley may be known for its stunning outdoor adventures, but there’s so much more to discover. Whether you're escaping a rainy day or just looking for a different kind of experience, Rangeley offers plenty to enjoy beyond the trails and lakes. Dive into local history at the Rangeley Outdoor Heritage Museum or catch a film at the Rangeley Lakeside Theater. Downtown Rangeley offers unique shops, antique stores and
when you’re not
hiking, skiing or fishing.
Located in the charming village of Oquossoc, the Rangeley Heritage Museum is a hidden gem that celebrates the area’s rich cultural and recreational history. Housed in a beautifully restored 1905 schoolhouse, the museum features captivating exhibits on early settlers, sporting camps, and the golden age of Rangeley’s fishing tourism. Antique tools, vintage photographs, and historic artifacts offer a window into life in the Rangeley Lakes Region over the past century. Seasonal exhibits and local lore make each visit a new discovery. For those looking to connect with the roots of this unique mountain-lake community, the Heritage Museum is a must-see stop.
Rangeley Heritage Museum
Bowling at Moose Alley
Tucked in the heart of Rangeley, Maine, Moose Alley is more than just a bowling alley—it’s a hub of local fun and community spirit. This rustic yet modern venue offers ten lanes of bowling, an arcade, billiards, and even axe throwing for the adventurous. Its cozy lounge and bar serve up craft beers and hearty bites, perfect after a day exploring the Rangeley Lakes region. Live music, karaoke nights, and family-friendly events make it a favorite for both locals and visitors. Whether you're escaping a rainy day or looking for evening entertainment, Moose Alley delivers a memorable Rangeley experience.
The Maine Forestry Museum in Rangeley offers a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich logging heritage and deep-rooted connection to the forest. Nestled among the pines, the museum features historic logging equipment, handcrafted tools, and engaging exhibits that tell the story of Maine’s timber industry. Visitors can explore outdoor trails, view vintage photographs, and even see a recreated logging camp. Special events, like the annual Logging Festival Days, bring the past to life with demonstrations, games, and local crafts. Whether you're a history buff or simply curious, the Maine Forestry Museum provides a unique and educational experience for all ages.
Rangeley Lakeside Theater
The Rangeley Lakeside Theater, operated by Rangeley Friends of the Arts, is a cultural hub in Maine's Western Mountains. This fully accessible, state-of-the-art venue hosts a variety of events, including live theater productions like the musical Chicago (July 1–5) and Agatha Christie's The Mousetrap (August 15–17). Music enthusiasts can enjoy concerts such as Crow Stew's swamp rock and blues (July 9) and the Sandy River Ramblers' bluegrass tunes (August 1). The theater also screens first-run movies and indie films, complemented by a full concession stand offering beer and wine. For a complete schedule and tickets, visit the Rangeley Friends of the Arts website.
Wilhelm Reich Museum
Wilhelm Reich (1897–1957) was an Austrian-born psychiatrist who emerged as a prominent figure in Sigmund Freud's inner circle during the 1920s. He later collaborated with Albert Einstein in 1941, presenting his theories on "orgone energy," a concept he believed to be a universal life force. Reich's innovative ideas, including the development of the orgone accumulator, were both influential and controversial. Today, his legacy is preserved at the Wilhelm Reich Museum in Rangeley, Maine. Located at Orgonon, Reich's former home and research center, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into his life and work, featuring exhibits in the Orgone Energy Observatory and nearly 200 acres of scenic trails.
Step back in time aboard the Sandy River & Rangeley Lakes Railroad (SR&RL), a living tribute to Maine’s rich narrow-gauge heritage. Established in 1879 to connect Franklin County’s timberlands and resorts, the SR&RL once spanned over 100 miles. Though the original line ceased operations in 1935, dedicated volunteers have revived a portion in Phillips, offering authentic steam-powered rides. From Memorial Day weekend through early October, visitors can enjoy weekend journeys departing Sanders Station at 11 AM, noon, and 1 PM . Explore the historic roundhouse, try your hand on a vintage handcar, and immerse yourself in a bygone era. Perfect for families, history enthusiasts, and adventurers alike, the SR&RL offers a unique glimpse into Maine’s storied past. Plan your visit today at srrl-rr.org.
