Belgrade Lakes is a village in Kennebec County, Maine, located in the far-reaching lake district of east-central Maine. It is situated at the northern tip of Long Pond, the second largest lake of the Belgrade Lakes chain. The lake district is renowned for its beauty, offering many activities and attractions to locals and tourists alike. Enjoy the peaceful walks along the lake shores, or take to the water with kayaks or canoes to explore the quieter coves and islands. A variety of trails, from leisurely to challenging hikes, meander through woodland and past bogs, offering an amazing variety of wildlife, flora, and fauna. There is also plenty of opportunity to take part in fishing and hunting, play a round of golf, or just to relax and take in the stunning scenery.
1. Places for a coffee date in Belgrade Lakes
A good start to a first date is meeting up for a coffee. In Belgrade Lakes, there are several options for a relaxed and intimate coffee date, as well as brunch or lunch. The Lakeside Café, located at the foot of Long Pond, offers a relaxed and quiet atmosphere ideal for a casual coffee date. The Starboard Café is located on the shore of Great Pond, serving breakfast and lunch in a pleasant outdoor seating area. Other popular spots for a coffee date include the Village Diner and Boathouse Coffee.
2. Belgrade Lakes galleries, museums and exhibitions to visit on a date
For a more cultural experience on a first date, Belgrade Lakes is home to several interesting galleries, museums and exhibitions. Visitors can discover the area’s history and heritage at the Palmer Memorial Museum, the Belgrade Historical Museum, and the Belgrade Lakes History Center. The Belgrade Lakes Art Gallery displays a range of works from local and Maine-based artists and craftspeople. Other cultural attractions include the Belgrade Community Theater and the Waterville Opera House, which host a variety of music and comedy shows.
3. Live music and entertainment to invite your date to in Belgrade Lakes
For music lovers, Belgrade Lakes has no shortage of live music, entertainment and events. The Belgrade Lakes Music Festival takes place each summer, along with the Lakes Area Music Festival and the Kennebec Valley Music Festival. Live music can be enjoyed throughout the year, with performances at the more intimate venues such as the Town Grill and the Lakeside Inn. The Belgrade Lakes Arts and Garden Tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the area’s beautiful gardens, art galleries and cultural events.
4. Belgrade Lakes pubs, bars or restaurants for a first date drink or food
For a first date drink or food, Belgrade Lakes has lots of options. The Lakeside Inn offers a variety of pub fare, craft beers and a relaxed atmosphere. The Town Grill and Hatchet Bar & Grill serve up classic pub food and a decent selection of local beers. For a more upscale dining experience, visitors can visit restaurants such as the Mill House Restaurant, the Boathouse on the Lake, or the Fish Tale Grill.
5. Other date ideas to try in Belgrade Lakes
5. Other date ideas to try in Belgrade Lakes include renting a boat or a jet ski for the day and taking a romantic cruise on the lake, or exploring the hiking trails and picnic spots in the area. There are also several parks in the area, including the Belgrade Lakes Nature Park and the White Pines Nature Preserve, which offer a wide range of activities and attractions, such as bird watching and fishing. For a more active date, why not try horseback riding, kayaking, canoeing or swimming in one of the many local lakes and rivers?
