Eastport

Connected by a granite causeway to the mainland at Pleasant Point Reservation, Eastport has wonderful views of the nearby islands, and you can sometimes spot whales from the waterfront because the harbor is so deep. Known for its diverse architecture, the island city was one of the nation's busiest seaports in the early 1800s. In the late 19th century 14 sardine canneries operated here. The industry's decline in the 20th century left the city economically depressed, but now the town has set its sights on salmon, shipping, tourism, and the arts—performing and visual arts are thriving here. The weekend after Labor Day the Maine Salmon Festival attracts large crowds with boat tours of salmon pens, an arts and crafts show, a historic-home walking tour, a wine tasting, and a dinner featuring the local delicacy and live music. On the same weekend the Eastport Pirate Festival brings folks out in pirate attire for a ship race, parade, and other events, including a children's breakfast and schooner ride with pirates.