Penobscot Narrows Bridge & Observatory

Down East


Acrophobes, look away. At the photogenic Penobscot Narrows Bridge, a narrow, 420ft granite tower (taller than the Statue of Liberty) contains a lookout offering spectacular 360-degree views of the Maine coast and distant mountains – it's especially scenic in the fall.

At the bridge's base is Fort Knox State Park. The large, granite Fort Knox, dating from 1844, was strategically placed on the narrows of the Penebscot River to protect the valley from naval attack. The park is ripe for exploration and picnicking (entry is included with observatory admission).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby Down East attractions

1. Sears Island

9.06 MILES

You can (and should) explore Sears Island on foot. This uninhabited, 940-acre conservation area is connected by causeway to the mainland north of…

2. Penobscot Marine Museum

9.2 MILES

The superb Penobscot Marine Museum houses Maine’s biggest collection of mariner art and artifacts, which is spread through a number of historic buildings…

3. Moose Point State Park

11.13 MILES

Besides having perhaps the perfect name for a Maine state park, Moose Point also boasts tide pools, a rocky coastline, groves of dark-green woods and…

4. Castine Historical Society

11.73 MILES

Overlooking the leafy town common, the Castine Historical Society hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, often with thought-provoking themes. A…

5. Town Common

11.76 MILES

One of the prettiest town commons in Maine, Castine's grassy quadrangle dates back to the early 19th century and is framed by an architectural showcase of…

6. Witherle Woods

11.89 MILES

Occupying 185 acres of forest and coastline along the Castine Peninsula, the Witherle Woods are part of the Maine Coast Heritage Trust. They contain a…

7. John Perkins House

12.03 MILES

Dating from the 18th century, this two-story Colonial home was one of the first houses built in Castine (a forested wilderness at the time). Guided tours…

8. Wilson Museum

12.05 MILES

On the waterfront, about half a mile west of the town dock, the Wilson Museum houses an exquisite collection of fossils as well as global artifacts made…