Rockland, Maine: Coastal scenery, the arts and good food
A day in Rockland might include a visit to the Farnsworth Art Museum, dining at one of many excellent local restaurants and a walk on the Rockland Breakwater, a man-made granite jetty that stretches nearly a mile into the sea.
The view as you walk on the Breakwater out into Penobscot Bay looks like a classic painting of the Maine coast: a band of green trees on the horizon separating the blues of water and sky; the harbor dotted with sailboats and ferries.
The waterfront Samoset Resort, which offers luxury lodging and a golf course, is located on the other side of the Breakwater in neighboring Rockport.
Another special exhibition at the museum, opening June 18, is called "Pushing Boundaries," described by the Farnsworth as "large collaborative pieces by some of the most important names in post-WWII American art," with works by Jim Dine, Morris Graves, Roy Lichtenstein, Robert Rauschenberg and James Rosenquist in collaboration with Donald Saff.
Guided tours tell the story of the house, the Olsons, their relationship with Wyeth, and why and how "Christina's World" became one of the most renowned paintings of mid-20th century America.
The Farnsworth is hosting separate "Wyeth Experience" tours offering an in-depth look at some of Andrew Wyeth's works in the museum, followed by a tour of the house, Fridays in July and August, 9:45 a.m.-12:45 p.m., $50, http://www.farnsworthmuseum.org/wyethexperience .
On Vinalhaven's Main Street, you can't miss Indiana's large Victorian home, with massive American flags painted on the exterior.
The Home Kitchen Cafe is known for lobster tacos; In Good Company is the place for tapas, and Suzuki's gets folks driving up from Boston for sushi.