5 fun things to do in Fryeburg
Eva Johnson's Fryeburg Favorites: From Scenic Hikes to Historic Farms and a Beloved Annual Fair
Fryeburg, Maine — For Eva Johnson, recommending the best of her hometown isn't just a pastime — it's practically a professional obligation. As the center manager of the Maine State Visitor Information Center in Fryeburg, Johnson has made it her mission to help travelers discover everything the western Maine town has to offer.
A lifelong Mainer, Johnson grew up in nearby Stow and attended Fryeburg Academy before eventually venturing out and then returning to the area she calls home. She now resides in the neighboring town of Sweden and says the visitor center role was an easy fit.
"It's just really fun to talk to people about things I already love," Johnson said.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, Johnson's picks offer a well-rounded taste of what makes Fryeburg special — from a scenic covered bridge and a popular summit hike to a historic farm market and one of the state's oldest agricultural fairs.
A Dinner Worth the Occasion
When Johnson recommends a restaurant, she means it. She says her go-to spot for a truly special meal is the Oxford House Inn & Restaurant. Described as fancy and romantic, the establishment is one she reserves for occasions that warrant something out of the ordinary. She also highlights the breadth of its menu, noting that it offers a wide variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan-friendly options. She's so fond of the place that she often gifts restaurant gift certificates to friends and family.
Coffee With a Side of History
For a casual caffeine fix, Johnson points visitors to Fair Grounds Coffee, a downtown shop housed in what was once an old bank building. The café, she says, serves all the classics and is particularly known for its hazelnut latte made with oat milk — her personal favorite.
Nature at Every Turn
Johnson's love of the outdoors runs deep. Among her top recommendations is Hemlock Bridge, a covered bridge constructed in 1857 that spans the old Saco River. She praises the spot as an ideal place to park and walk along the dirt road that traces the river's path, offering beautiful mountain views along the way.
For those looking for a quicker outdoor adventure, she suggests hiking Jockey Cap, a summit in Fryeburg that she calls an essential experience for anyone visiting the area. The hike is short enough to be manageable for families with children, yet rewarding enough to deliver sweeping mountain panoramas. On a clear day, she says, the view extends all the way to Mount Washington — a sight she describes as fantastic.
Supporting Local and Historic Farms
When it comes to shopping local, Johnson recommends Weston's Farm & Market. The operation, she notes, has been running for generations and offers far more than just fresh produce and meats. Its gift shop is stocked with a wide range of Maine-made products, making it a prime destination for shoppers seeking authentic, state-specific gifts. She also points out that pumpkin season is a particularly popular time to visit.
The Fryeburg Fair: An Annual Must
No Fryeburg itinerary would be complete without the Fryeburg Fair, which takes place during the first week of October each year. Johnson calls it one of the oldest agricultural fairs in the region and describes it as wonderfully family-friendly. She especially enjoys the flower shows and the exhibits featuring handmade goods like skincare products. She also speaks fondly of the farm animals on display — including baby goats and rabbits — recalling memories of bringing her son to the fair as a child.
"Especially if you don't have a farm, when has a kid played with a goat?" she asks. "You have to take them to the fair."
