Rockport is a lovely coastal town 30 miles southeast of Augusta. Named by Forbes Magazine as one of America's Prettiest Towns, it's no wonder why so many people flock here during the summer. The laid-back atmosphere and location (directly between Kennebunkport and Bar Harbor) make this coastal Maine town an amazing place to call home.
Culture
Rockport is known as an artistic town with a large community of artists and creative professionals. The Rockport Opera House can seat up to 400 people and hosts the renowned Bay Chamber Concerts as well as many other events throughout the year.
Head to the Rockport Marine Park to view a replica of a steam locomotive used to transport lime back in Rockport's bustling industry days. You will also find three restored lime kilns originally used in the 1800s when Rockport was one of the largest producers of lime -- made from the abundance of limestone along the coast.
Also in the park, you will find a statue of Andre the Seal. Andre was a real seal who was abandoned as a pup and adopted by a local family. Because of his remarkable life, he became a local celebrity and ultimately the subject of two books as well as a feature film in 1994.
Dining
Nina June takes the best of what Maine has to offer and mixes it with bold Meditteranean flavors. Enjoy harbor views from the deck or enjoy a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere in the open dining room. You can even join celebrated head chef and owner Sara Jenkins and her mother Nancy Harmon Jenkins for cooking classes.
18 Central in Rockport is a fantastic place if you're looking for fresh, local seafood. The raw bar is fantastic. The atmosphere and service are both exceptional. You really have to stop in and see for yourself why locals and tourists alike can't get enough.
If you're looking for delicious, wood-fired pizza look no further than Flatbread. Flatbread proudly serves local, organic produce on all its pizzas and in their sauce. The hand-built woodfire oven elevates their pizza to a whole new level. Flatbread is a great place for the whole family.
3 Dogs Cafe is a favorite among locals and visitors. Their extensive cafe menu includes soups, sandwiches, salads, ice cream, fresh pastries and more. You have to try their famous macaroons. They also have a full coffee bar and sell beer and wine. Enjoy views of Mount Battie on their patio in the summer or warm up during the cold Maine winter months in front of the six-foot, see-through open-hearth fireplace.
The Rockport Diner on West Street is the spot for a classic diner breakfast/lunch. This charming, small-town diner is a Rockport staple.
Schools
Rockport schools are part of MSAD 28, known as the Five Towns District. The district is comprised of children from Appleton, Hope, Lincolnville, Camden, and Rockport. MSAD 28 is known for its high test scores, well-rounded education, extra-curricular activities, and high graduation rates. Children in Rockport enrolled in grades K-4 attend Camden-Rockport Elementary School in Rockport. From 5th grade to 8th grade they attend Camden-Rockport Middle School, also located in Rockport. Students in 9-12th grade attend Camden Hills Regional High School. CHRHS offers students an abundance of opportunities and they have a true focus on preparing children to be productive global citizens. There are several study-abroad options that are available to all children who are interested in them, ranging from programs throughout the United States to staying for a school year in a school overseas.
Located on Camden Street, and formerly known as Rockport College, Maine Media College delivers degree and certificate programs, incentives, workshops, and cooperative labs to students pursuing creative work in fine arts and media-related professions. Maine Media College provides an immersive experience in one of the most beautiful places in the world.
Maine Media College is also known for its close relationship with the Maine Media Workshops. The Maine Media Workshops is a non-profit organization that offers more than 400 workshops year-round to more than 2,000 students, ranging from high school students to retiree, interested in filmmaking, media arts, and photography. Workshops range in skill level from absolute beginner to working professional. Workshops last anywhere from a single weekend to a 12-week summer residency.