Cascade Park

Imagine a cozy green oasis stretching along the banks of the Penobscot River. Bangor is proud of its Cascade Park—a unique public space in the USA that combines natural charm with the craftsmanship of last century's landscape designers.

The main highlight of this place is the impressive 20-foot waterfall carved directly into the hillside, along with an elegant system of water cascades. The focal point is an oval pool with a fountain whose jets can soar up to 7.5 meters high. After dark, the park is transformed: underwater multicolored lights and powerful spotlights turn the water streams into a magical light show.

Covering about 7 acres, the park offers visitors more than just aesthetic pleasure; it's a chance to relax in the shade of century-old trees. It is a popular spot for wedding ceremonies and quiet strolls, where the sound of falling water helps you momentarily forget the bustle of the city.

To plan your visit and check for up-to-date information on events, you can reach out to the city's official resources. The park administration maintains the grounds and is always ready to answer visitors' questions about the availability of specific recreation areas.

Below are the main contact details for communication and navigation:

In this picturesque location, everyone will find something to enjoy. Start your exploration with a walk to the stone grotto, where you can observe the double waterfall, and then follow the winding concrete stream to the main fountain. In the evening, be sure to stay and see the water play with all the colors of the rainbow under the glow of the spotlights.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are hiking trails that lead to the top of the hill. The climb can be steep in places, but the views of the Penobscot River from the top are well worth the effort. The entire route through the forest trails can be completed in 20–30 minutes, revealing hidden corners of this green zone.

If you prefer a more relaxed experience, the park features designated picnic areas with tables and benches. The cozy gazebo is a frequent spot for photo shoots and special events. It's the perfect location to read a book in the fresh air or simply enjoy the silence away from the noisy highways.

Getting to this picturesque spot is easy, as it is conveniently located at 600 State St. If you are in downtown Bangor, a walk or bike ride along State Street will take 10 to 20 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the city scenery along the way.

For those who prefer to drive, there is ample parking right at the entrance. For travelers arriving from Bangor International Airport (BGR), it is most convenient to use a taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft—the trip takes about 10–15 minutes.

Additionally, buses from the local Bangor Metro transport network stop nearby. This makes the park accessible for both local residents and tourists traveling via public transport.

The history of this site dates back to the Great Depression era. Cascade Park was built in 1934 as part of President Franklin Roosevelt’s "New Deal" program. The project was initiated by City Manager James G. Wallace, who decided to turn a swampy lowland across from the waterworks station into a beautiful recreation area.

In the mid-20th century, the park had a rather unusual specialty: in the 1950s, a ski area operated here. A portable tow lift was installed on the hillsides, night lighting was in place, and instructors taught beginners the basics of skiing. In those days, thousands of cars would line up in the evenings just to see the illumination of the fountains and waterfall.

After a period of decline in the 1970s, the park was given a second life through a major renovation in 1988. In 2024, city officials applied to have the site included in the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting its 90-year significance as the city's first and unique public park featuring artificial water cascades.

For a quick look at the main attractions, such as the fountain and the grotto with the waterfall, you will need about 30–40 minutes. This is enough time to take some beautiful photos and enjoy the cool air by the water.

If you plan to walk all the hiking trails leading to the top of the hill and have a small picnic in the gazebo, you should set aside 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit. The park is quite compact, making it an ideal stop for a short break in a busy tourist itinerary.

The park is welcoming and open to visitors daily. You can come here early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility or late in the evening to witness the fountain light show.

Opening Hours:
Monday — Sunday: from 06:00 to 22:00.

Exploring the surrounding area after your walk through the park can significantly enrich your trip experience. Both historical markers and modern leisure spots are located nearby, allowing you to get a better feel for the atmosphere of Maine.

Below is a list of interesting sites located within a radius of several kilometers: