If you’re planning a visit to Oxford County, Maine, you’ve come to the right place. The town of Fryeburg has a population of 3,369 as of the 2020 census. It is also home to two prominent institutions: the Fryeburg Academy, a semi-private preparatory school, and the International Musical Arts Institute.
Historic Hemlock Bridge
The Historic Hemlock Bridge in Fryeberg, Maine is one of the state’s most charming old bridges. Built in 1857, the bridge features a Paddleford truss and laminated wooden arches. The bridge was restored in 1988 and is now capable of carrying local traffic. The bridge is located three miles northwest of East Fryeburg and spans the Old Course Saco River. In 1987, a large flood washed away much of the bridge, causing it to be replaced by a covered bridge.
The Saco River enters the town of Fryeburg from New Hampshire and flows east and then south. The Saco passes east and south of Lovewell’s Pond and is home to Walker’s Bridge. Near the bridge stands the old town hall, built in 1847, and the Chandler family cemetery. Located across the Saco River from the town center is the Cold River, which begins in Stow and ends on Harbor Road in North Fryeburg.
The Wiley house complex is another landmark in Fryeburg, Maine. This 1772 farmhouse was owned by Benjamin Wiley, one of the first settlers in the area. He was active in local affairs and was a part of the local government. Other owners included Joseph Colby and Samuel Chandler, who both served as state representatives in the early nineteenth century. Today, the Wiley house is a Bed and Breakfast.
You can reach Fryeburg through route 113 north. From Fryeburg, you can take route 160 north for about 13 miles. In Brownfield, the road will turn into route 113 north/5 north. From there, you will reach Main Street and then turn right onto Frog Alley, which becomes a well-maintained dirt road. The Hemlock Bridge is located in this area.
The bridge has been renovated twice since its original construction. In 1961, the tower bases were covered with concrete and the original steel suspender rods replaced with steel cables. However, the stone pier and abutments were restored and the bridge entered the National Register of Historic Places on December 27, 1990.
Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center
Fryeburg, Maine is a charming and traditional New England village located in the foothills of the White Mountains. It is a scenic spot that offers endless outdoor activities. The town is surrounded by 800,000 acres of the White Mountain National Forest and is near four major ski resorts. Visitors to Fryeburg are also close to large cities and many major attractions in Maine.
While visiting Fryeburg, make sure to visit the Fryeburg Historical Society. This historical organization maintains a museum of local history and a number of historic buildings in town. They also host regular events, including a popular Mother’s Day tea. Another historical site that’s worth a visit is the Hazel & Owen Currier Doll Museum, located in the historic Fryeburg Town House. Those interested in local history can also stop by Marion Parsons House, which is located just across from the town house.
Visitors can also sample the beer made by local brewers at Saco River Brewing Company. The brewery is family-friendly, and children and pets are welcome. The brewery also sells its beer in local liquor stores and restaurants.
Leura Hill Eastman Performing Arts Center offers a wide range of shows and events. The center offers a 400-seat auditorium and a variety of other performance venues. It also houses a fine arts collection. The Center also features a museum and gallery located right off the lobby.
While you’re in Fryeburg, don’t miss a Fryeburg Academy athletic event. There are varsity and JV soccer games on Saturdays, and alumni, friends, and family are welcome to attend. In addition to athletics, Fryeburg Academy offers many other events for visitors to enjoy.
Stark’s Mountain Nordic Trails
The Stark’s Mountain Nordic Trails are a popular destination for cross-country skiers in Fryeburg. This location is just a mile away from the Weston family farm. The trails begin at Albany Covered Bridge and climb gradually through coniferous and hardwood forests. Once you’ve finished the loop, head down Bear Notch Road to head back to your vehicle.
This 15-mile trail system is privately owned and maintained and is open for Nordic skiing on weekends. The trails are closed to fat bikes and dogs. A $5 suggested donation covers grooming. Weekend races are also held here. The trails are well groomed and are ideal for beginner skiers and intermediates.
Fryeburg Fair
The Fryeburg Fair is one of Maine’s largest agricultural fairs. Livestock exhibitors show off their prized animals in barns full of people. Some of these farmers have been showing livestock for decades, while others are exhibiting for the first time. Carli Maling, a 10-year-old farmer, is one of those who is showing livestock for the first time. She was petting a Border Leicester ewe, Sadie, at the Fryeburg Fair.
The Fryeburg Fair attracts almost 300,000 people each year. Parking can be difficult, but there are plenty of places to park. Parking near the fairgrounds can be expensive, so it’s worth paying for a place a bit farther away from the gates. Children under 12 can attend free of charge.
When planning to attend the Fair in Fryeburg, remember to bring sunscreen and a water bottle for the entire family. The Fryeburg area offers sandy beaches and plenty of opportunities for water sports. Camping in the area is allowed, but onsite campers should check their heating systems. RVers should also make sure their RV has a working heater. Guests who camp in an RV should also make sure they have a first aid kit in case of an emergency.
Dreamland Amusements, a New York-based company, partnered with the Fryeburg Fair to bring adult rides to the fair. The rides were clean, well-managed, and had friendly employees. A couple of the rides were improved, and unlimited rides were offered six out of the eight days. However, lines were long on popular rides.
The Fryeburg Fair is a popular event that attracts thousands of people every year. It is held over 185 acres of grounds, and hosts over 3,000 animals. It is also an ideal setting for soaking up the fresh air of Maine. It is one of the largest agricultural fairs in Maine and second largest in New England. There is even food and entertainment to enjoy.
