The Big List

  • Southwest Harbor, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Southwest Harbor is a charming town located in Hancock County, Maine, United States. It is nestled on the southwestern side of Mount Desert Island, which is home to the Acadia National Park. The town is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and is known for its picturesque landscapes, including mountains, forests, and coastal areas.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates of Southwest Harbor, Maine are approximately 44.2793° N latitude and 68.3256° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Southwest Harbor is part of the Northeast region of the United States. It is situated in the southern part of Hancock County, Maine. The town covers a total area of approximately 22.36 square miles, of which 14.09 square miles is land and 8.27 square miles is water.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As of the 2020 census, Southwest Harbor had a population of around 1,764 residents. The town has a diverse age range, with a median age of 46.8 years. The population is predominantly White, accounting for approximately 97.6% of the total population. Other racial groups include African Americans, Native Americans, Asians, and people of two or more races.

    🏛️ History

    Southwest Harbor was originally part of Mount Desert Island, which was first inhabited by the Wabanaki people. The town was incorporated in 1905, and since then, it has been known for its shipbuilding and fishing industries. The town’s rich maritime history is still evident today, with several boatyards and marinas operating in the area.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Southwest Harbor is surrounded by natural beauty, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Acadia National Park on the other. The park, which is one of the most visited national parks in the United States, offers stunning views of mountains, forests, and lakes. The town is also home to several species of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The local environment is well-preserved, with initiatives in place to protect the area’s natural resources.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Southwest Harbor is managed by the Mount Desert Island Regional School System. The town is home to the Pemetic Elementary School, which serves students from kindergarten through eighth grade. High school students typically attend Mount Desert Island High School, located in the nearby town of Bar Harbor.

    🚧 Transportation

    Southwest Harbor is accessible by car via State Route 102, which runs through the town. The Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, located approximately 18 miles away, provides the nearest air travel services. For local transportation, the Island Explorer bus service offers free rides to various destinations on Mount Desert Island during the summer months.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Southwest Harbor is known for its annual Flamingo Festival, a unique event that features a parade, crafts, food, and of course, plenty of flamingos. The festival, which began in 2005, draws visitors from all over the region. Another notable event is the Acadia Night Sky Festival, which celebrates the area’s clear, star-filled skies. The town’s location on the quiet side of Mount Desert Island makes it an ideal spot for stargazing.


  • Sorrento, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Sorrento is a charming town located in Hancock County, in the state of Maine, United States. It is situated on the eastern part of the county, on the Waukeag Neck, a peninsula extending into Frenchman Bay. The town is surrounded by water on three sides, with the Sullivan Harbor to the south, the Flanders Bay to the west, and the Frenchman Bay to the east. The town covers a total area of 9.57 square miles, 3.68 square miles of which is land and 5.89 square miles is water.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates of Sorrento, Maine are approximately 44°29′15″N latitude and 68°11′54″W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Sorrento is part of the Northeastern region of the United States, specifically in the New England area. It is a part of Hancock County, which is located in the eastern part of Maine. The town is relatively small, with a total area of 9.57 square miles.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As per the 2020 United States Census, the population of Sorrento is approximately 274 residents. The town has a predominantly White population, with a small percentage of other races. The median age in Sorrento is around 56 years, indicating a relatively older population.

    🏛️ History

    Sorrento was originally a part of the town of Sullivan, but it was set off and incorporated as a separate town on March 9, 1895. The town was named after the Italian city of Sorrento, in the region of Campania. Over the years, Sorrento has maintained its charm as a small coastal town, with its history deeply tied to the sea.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Sorrento is blessed with a beautiful natural environment. It boasts a stunning coastline with picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean. The town is home to the Sorrento Harbor, a popular spot for boating and fishing. The area is also rich in wildlife, with many species of birds and marine life inhabiting the region. The town is surrounded by lush forests, offering opportunities for hiking and nature walks.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Sorrento is managed by the Regional School Unit 24 (RSU 24). The town does not have its own public school, so students from Sorrento attend the Sumner Memorial High School in nearby Sullivan. There are also several private and charter schools in the surrounding areas.

    🚧 Transportation

    Sorrento is accessible via the U.S. Route 1, which runs along the western edge of the town. The nearest airport is the Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, located about 15 miles north of Sorrento. The town’s location on the peninsula also makes it a popular destination for boating and sailing.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Every summer, Sorrento hosts the Sorrento Lobster Festival, a popular event that celebrates the town’s maritime heritage with lobster dinners, boat races, and other festivities. The town is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with several galleries and studios located in the area.


  • Sedgwick, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Sedgwick is a charming town located in Hancock County, Maine, United States. It is situated on the western side of the Blue Hill Peninsula, bounded by the Bagaduce River to the north and the Eggemoggin Reach to the south. The town covers a total area of 39.64 square miles, of which 29.88 square miles is land and 9.76 square miles is water.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates for Sedgwick, Maine are approximately 44°20′19″N latitude and 68°38′20″W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Sedgwick is part of the New England region in the northeastern United States. It is nestled in Hancock County, which is one of the coastal counties of Maine. The town is surrounded by several other towns including Brooksville to the south, Blue Hill to the east, and Penobscot to the north.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As per the 2010 census, the population of Sedgwick was 1,196. The town has a diverse age range of residents, with a median age of 47.4 years. The racial makeup of the town is predominantly White, with a small percentage of Native American, Asian, and other races.

    🏛️ History

    Sedgwick was first settled in 1763 and was incorporated as a town on February 8, 1789. It was named after Major Robert Sedgwick, an English colonist and soldier. The town’s economy was initially based on shipbuilding and lumbering, but today, it is more diversified, with various small businesses and services.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Sedgwick is known for its beautiful natural scenery. The town is home to the Sedgwick-Brooklin Bridge, which offers stunning views of the Bagaduce River. The town also has several parks and nature reserves, including the Barred Island Preserve, a popular spot for hiking and bird watching. The coastal location also provides opportunities for boating and fishing.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Sedgwick is managed by the Sedgwick Elementary School, which serves students from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade. For high school education, students usually attend George Stevens Academy in the nearby town of Blue Hill.

    🚧 Transportation

    Sedgwick is primarily accessed by road, with Maine State Route 15 and 175 passing through the town. The nearest airport is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, located about 25 miles to the northeast. There are no rail services in Sedgwick, but bus services are provided by Downeast Transportation.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Sedgwick is known for its annual “Sedgwick Day” celebration, which includes a parade, games, food, and other festivities. The town is also famous for its “Right to Farm” law, passed in 2011, which allows local farmers and food producers to sell their products directly to consumers without state and federal licensing and inspection.


  • Seal Harbor, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Seal Harbor is a charming village located in the town of Mount Desert in Hancock County, Maine. It’s situated on the southeastern part of Mount Desert Island, which is the largest island off the coast of Maine. The area is known for its rugged coastline, lush forests, and picturesque views of the Atlantic Ocean.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographic coordinates for Seal Harbor are approximately 44.2979° N latitude and 68.2553° W longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Seal Harbor is part of the Down East region of Maine, an area known for its stunning natural beauty and traditional New England charm. The village covers a relatively small area within the larger town of Mount Desert, which spans a total of 54.88 square miles.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    As a part of the town of Mount Desert, Seal Harbor shares in the town’s population which, according to the United States Census Bureau, was estimated to be around 2,053 as of 2010. The demographics of the town are predominantly white, with a median age of around 54 years.

    🏛️ History

    Seal Harbor has a rich history dating back to the 19th century when it was a popular summer resort for wealthy Americans. The village was named after the harbor seal, a common sight in the local waters. Over the years, it has maintained its reputation as a quiet retreat for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Seal Harbor is surrounded by the natural beauty of Acadia National Park, one of the most visited national parks in the United States. The village offers access to numerous hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for bird watching and wildlife viewing. The local environment is characterized by a mix of deciduous and coniferous forests, rocky beaches, and crystal-clear waters.

    🏫 Education

    Educational services in Seal Harbor are provided by the Mount Desert Island Regional School System. The system includes Mount Desert Elementary School, Mount Desert Island High School, and several other educational institutions. There are also opportunities for higher education nearby, including the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor.

    🚧 Transportation

    Transportation to and around Seal Harbor is primarily by car, with Maine State Route 3 serving as the main thoroughfare. The Island Explorer, a free shuttle bus service, provides transportation throughout Mount Desert Island, including Seal Harbor, during the summer and early fall. The nearest airport is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, located approximately 12 miles away.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Seal Harbor is home to the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Garden, a private garden that opens to the public for limited times during the summer. The village is also known for its annual July 4th parade, a beloved local tradition that draws visitors from around the region. Notably, Seal Harbor has been a favorite vacation spot for several prominent figures, including Martha Stewart and the Rockefeller family.


  • Seal Cove, Maine

    📍 Location & Geography

    Seal Cove is a charming small town located in Hancock County, in the state of Maine. The town is situated on the western side of Mount Desert Island, which is part of the Downeast Maine region. The town is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, lush forests, and a beautiful coastline. The town’s geography is characterized by a blend of coastal and rural features, with the cove itself being a significant geographical feature.

    🌎 Coordinates

    The geographical coordinates for Seal Cove, Maine are approximately 44.23 degrees North latitude and 68.34 degrees West longitude.

    🗺️ Region & Area

    Seal Cove is part of the Northeastern region of the United States, specifically in the New England area. It is located on Mount Desert Island, which is the largest island off the coast of Maine and the second-largest on the Eastern Seaboard. The town is nestled within the Acadia National Park, which covers a significant portion of the island.

    👥 Population & Demographics

    Seal Cove is a small town with a relatively low population. As of the latest census data, the population of Seal Cove is less than 1,000 residents. The town is known for its close-knit community and a slower pace of life. The demographics of Seal Cove are predominantly Caucasian, with a median age of around 50 years.

    🏛️ History

    The history of Seal Cove is deeply intertwined with the history of Mount Desert Island. The island was first inhabited by the Wabanaki people and was later discovered by Samuel de Champlain in 1604. The town of Seal Cove was primarily a fishing and shipbuilding community in the early days. The town has managed to maintain much of its historical charm and rural character, with several structures and sites dating back to the 19th century.

    🏞️ Nature & Environment

    Seal Cove is surrounded by the natural beauty of Acadia National Park, which offers a diverse landscape of mountains, woodlands, lakes, and coastline. The town is known for its stunning views of the cove and the surrounding wilderness. The local environment is rich in wildlife, including seals, which are the town’s namesake, as well as a variety of bird species.

    🏫 Education

    Education in Seal Cove is served by the Mount Desert Island Regional School System. This includes Mount Desert Elementary School, Mount Desert Island High School, and several other elementary and middle schools located on the island. The College of the Atlantic, located in nearby Bar Harbor, also offers higher education opportunities.

    🚧 Transportation

    The main mode of transportation in Seal Cove is by road, with Maine State Route 102 running through the town. The Island Explorer, a free shuttle bus service, operates in the summer months providing transportation around Mount Desert Island. The nearest airport is Hancock County-Bar Harbor Airport, located in Trenton, about 16 miles from Seal Cove.

    📜 Trivia & Events

    Seal Cove is home to the Seal Cove Auto Museum, which houses a collection of brass-era automobiles and offers a glimpse into the history of early automotive technology. The town also hosts several local events throughout the year, including the annual Seal Cove Auto Show. The proximity to Acadia National Park also provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and nature photography.