Things To Do
in Windham
Windham, Maine is a scenic New England town just north of Portland, known for its lakes, forests, and welcoming rural character. Nestled along Sebago Lake and the Presumpscot River, it offers outdoor recreation, small-town charm, and easy access to urban amenities. Its historic mills, farms, and village centers reflect a heritage rich in milling and community gatherings.
Visitors can enjoy boating, hiking, farmer's markets, and dining that showcases Maine's coastal bounty.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local café in Windham Village, where you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll around the quaint streets, admiring the charming architecture and boutique shops. Don't forget to visit the local art galleries that showcase works from regional artists.
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Windham Mountain for some outdoor adventures. You can choose between hiking one of the scenic trails or trying your hand at mountain biking, both offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Afterward, relax at a cozy lodge with a hot drink and take in the fall colors during this season.
As the sun sets, indulge in a delightful dinner at one of Windham's fine dining restaurants, where seasonal ingredients shine in local dishes. Once you’ve savored your meal, take a quiet evening walk under the stars, perhaps catching live music at a local venue. Cap off the night with a visit to a charming pub for a nightcap or a craft beer.
Begin your day with a visit to the Windham Path, an easy walking trail that will give you the perfect opportunity to connect with nature. Breathe in the fresh mountain air while enjoying the serene views and listening to the peaceful sounds of nature. After your walk, stop by a local diner for breakfast, savoring the warm ambiance and classic breakfast favorites.
Spend the afternoon at the local spa, where you can unwind with a variety of relaxing treatments including massages and facials. After pampering yourself, head to a scenic spot for a picnic lunch, basking in the tranquility of the surroundings. If time permits, visit the local farmer's market to pick up fresh produce and handmade crafts.
As evening falls, engage in a cooking class at a community center where you can learn how to prepare traditional dishes using local ingredients. Share a meal with fellow participants, creating a spontaneous social atmosphere filled with laughter and culinary stories. Later, enjoy stargazing at a nearby hilltop for a romantic and majestic end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠Rent per month (1-bedroom apartment) | $1,000-1,600 |
| 🧺Groceries for one person per month | $300-600 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.00-4.00 |
| ☕Coffee at a cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close proximity to Portland and Sebago Lake
- Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere
- Strong access to outdoor recreation
- Seasonal farmers markets and local foods
- Limited nightlife within Windham itself
- Tourist traffic can affect Portland-area routes
- Winter travel can be challenging due to snow
- Smaller town amenities compared to larger cities
Places to Visit in Windham
Visit one of these nice places.
Gentle rocks and calm water create reflective scenes at sunrise and sunset.
Panoramic views of rolling hills and forests from the summit.
Historic mills and quaint storefronts provide nostalgic portraits.
Scenic lanes framed by maples and oaks in autumn.
Food in Windham
Windham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic lobster roll, served cold with mayo or warm with butter; best at a lakeside spot or seafood shack in the Windham-Portland area.
Must-Try!
A staple of Maine desserts, made with locally picked blueberries and a flaky crust.
Sweet, soft sandwich cookies filled with cream, a traditional Maine treat found at markets and bakeries.
Creamy chowder featuring fresh clams and potatoes; widely available at local cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering local produce, baked goods, honey, and preserves.
An urban market in nearby Portland with fresh seafood, prepared foods, and street bites; great for tasting Maine flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Friendly, low-key conversation; greet neighbors and shopkeepers politely.
Be mindful of wildlife; keep distance and do not approach; drive with caution at dawn and dusk.
Respect private property and preserve natural areas; pack out trash and stay on trails.
Safety
Tipping in Windham
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, tip 15-20% of the pre-tax total; you can round up for smaller establishments.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for small vendors and farmers markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with frequent outdoor events; ideal for lake activities, barbecues, and sunset strolls.
Peak foliage from late September to early October; cool mornings and crisp afternoons.
Cold temperatures with snow and ice; great for winter sports and cozy indoor dining.
Milder temperatures with rain showers and budding landscapes; wildlife activity increases.
Windham at Night
Hiking in Windham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate loop with a rewarding summit view and varied terrain.
Riverside and lakeside trails offering water views and picnic spots.
Wooded trails at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester with easy to moderate loops.
Airports
How to reach Windham by plane.
Primary regional airport with frequent flights to major hubs; about 25-40 miles from Windham depending on route.
Larger airport in New Hampshire with broad connections; farther but reachable for certain itineraries.
Northern option with seasonal and national coverage; longer drive from Windham.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many households with children; family-friendly neighborhoods and activities.
Quiet, safe communities with a slower pace and local events.
Residents and visitors drawn to lakes, trails, and seasonal activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A favorite activity on local trails around Bradbury Mountain and along lake shorelines.
Seasonal freshwater fishing on Sebago Lake and nearby rivers.
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter on groomed trails and rural lanes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Windham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian visitors can enjoy plentiful produce at farms and markets; ask for veggie-friendly options at most restaurants; many places offer salads, grain bowls, and veggie-forward plates.