Calais, Maine

International City on the St. Croix

Overview

Calais (pronounced 'Call-us') sits on the banks of the tidal St. Croix River, directly opposite St. Stephen, Canada. The two communities have a long history of friendship. Calais is the gateway to the Downeast lakes and coastal wilderness, offering a mix of history and outdoor recreation.

Key Facts

Population 3,000

Region Downeast & Acadia

County Washington

Founded 1809

Nearest City Bangor (2 hours)

Town Office Visit official website

What Calais Is Known For

Calais Local Highlights

International Border Crossing

A major gateway connecting Maine to St. Stephen, New Brunswick, Canada.

St. Croix Island International Historic Site

The site of the 1604 French settlement, predating Jamestown and Plymouth.

Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge

A vast refuge offering habitat for woodcock, eagles, and other wildlife.

Downeast Heritage Museum

Celebrates the history and culture of the St. Croix Valley region.

Things to Do

Visit St. Croix Island International Historic Site

Learn about the early French settlement attempt through interpretive trails and exhibits.

Walk the Calais Waterfront Walkway

Stroll along the St. Croix River looking across to Canada.

Explore Moosehorn National Wildlife Refuge

Hike or birdwatch in this protected area known for its American Woodcock habitat.

Cross the bridge to St. Stephen, NB

Experience the unique 'two nations, one community' spirit (passport required).

Attend the International Homecoming Festival

Celebrate the friendship between Calais and St. Stephen with parades and events.

Living in Calais

Calais is a small, quiet border city with very affordable housing. It serves as a retail and service hub for eastern Washington County.

Weather & Seasons

summer

Warm, 70-80°F

winter

Cold and snowy, 15-30°F

spring

Cool, 40-55°F

fall

Beautiful foliage, 50-60°F

Local Wildlife & Nature

Bald Eagles (very high density) Woodcock Moose Black Bears

How to Get There

Calais is the eastern terminus of Route 9 ('The Airline') from Bangor, about a 2-hour drive. It is also accessible via Route 1 from the south.

Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.

Satellite preview

Calais outline

Outdoor Recreation

ATV Riding

Late Spring - Late Fall

Fishing

Year-round (Open water & Ice fishing)

Hiking

Year-round (Best: May - Oct)

Hunting

Fall & Winter (varies by species)

Snowmobiling

Winter (December - April)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport to go to St. Stephen?

Yes, crossing the bridge into Canada requires a valid passport or passport card.

What happened at St. Croix Island?

In 1604, French explorers (including Champlain) attempted a settlement there. It failed due to a harsh winter and scurvy, but it remains historically significant.