Maine Westbrook

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Moving to Westbrook, Maine

Westbrook offers the best of both worlds—small-city energy and natural Maine beauty—just minutes from downtown Portland. Known for its revitalized riverfront, walkable downtown, and tight-knit community spirit, Westbrook blends historic charm with a growing arts and food scene.

Residents enjoy the convenience of nearby employment centers and entertainment options, along with easy access to outdoor escapes along the Presumpscot River, Mill Brook Preserve, and local trails. Whether you're grabbing coffee at a local café, attending a concert at Rock Row, or kayaking through scenic waterways, Westbrook offers a lifestyle that's active, welcoming, and authentically Maine.

Westbrook by the numbers

20,650

City population

13% higher

City Rank of Cost of living vs. national average

$380,000

Median home price

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Discover Westbrook: Top Attractions and Things to Do

Local Experiences

Local Experiences

Westbrook blends riverside charm with creative energy and a deep sense of community. Just minutes from downtown Portland and surrounded by the natural beauty of southern Maine, Westbrook offers a unique mix of historic character, cultural vibrancy, and year-round outdoor adventure.

Local Flavor & Dining

Westbrook’s dining scene has grown into a lively reflection of its diverse community. Downtown you’ll find everything from casual eateries and farm-to-table bistros to beloved coffee shops, pizzerias, breweries, and bakeries. Local favorites like Mast Landing Brewing Company and Big Fin Poké bring both quality and character to the city’s evolving culinary landscape.

Seafood lovers won’t have to travel far—fresh oysters, lobster rolls, and haddock sandwiches are staples. Food trucks, patio dining, and riverfront bites make it easy to enjoy good food in a laid-back, friendly atmosphere.

Farmers markets and seasonal food festivals connect residents with Maine-grown produce, local meats, and artisan specialties that reflect the region’s flavors and craftsmanship.

Arts, Culture & Creative Spirit

Westbrook’s creative pulse runs deep. The city celebrates its industrial roots while embracing its future as a growing hub for makers, musicians, and artists. Public art installations and rotating gallery exhibits can be found throughout downtown, while the Westbrook Performing Arts Center hosts concerts, theater productions, and touring shows that rival those in larger cities.

Just across the river in Portland, world-class art museums, music venues, and festivals expand the cultural offerings available to Westbrook residents, making big-city arts easily accessible without giving up small-town ease.

Historic mill buildings have been thoughtfully repurposed into artist studios, coworking spaces, and cultural venues—preserving Westbrook’s legacy while encouraging innovation.

Parks, Trails & Outdoor Life

Outdoor adventure is part of everyday life in Westbrook. The Presumpscot River winds through the city, offering scenic views, fishing spots, and kayaking access right from the heart of downtown.

Nature lovers can explore the Mill Brook Preserve, a peaceful network of trails where salmon run in the spring and fall. The Fitzgerald Recreation Area, Bicentennial Park, and the Westbrook Riverwalk offer walking trails, playgrounds, and green space perfect for picnics, dog walks, and weekend relaxation.

Whether you’re hiking in the nearby White Mountains, snowshoeing local trails, or biking through town, Westbrook is a gateway to year-round outdoor recreation in every direction.

Festivals & Community Traditions

Westbrook shines with hometown pride through its vibrant calendar of community events. The Westbrook Together Days celebration is a beloved summer tradition featuring live music, local food, games, fireworks, and a spirited parade that draws residents of all ages to Riverbank Park.

Seasonal favorites like holiday tree lightings, outdoor movie nights, and neighborhood festivals create a tight-knit atmosphere that welcomes newcomers and longtime residents alike. The Westbrook Community Center and Walker Memorial Library play an active role in programming, offering everything from art workshops to storytime, fitness classes, and civic engagement opportunities.

A River City with Heart

Whether you're paddling the Presumpscot, sipping local beer on a sunny patio, or cheering at a downtown block party, Westbrook offers an experience that’s connected, creative, and unmistakably Maine. It’s a city that celebrates its history while looking ahead—with a strong sense of community, local pride, and natural beauty around every corner.

Sports and Recreation

Sports and Recreation

Westbrook pairs small-city spirit with big outdoor energy. With vibrant youth sports programs, scenic green spaces, and easy access to both Portland’s amenities and Maine’s wild landscapes, Westbrook offers countless ways to stay active, engaged, and connected year-round.

Local Sports & Community Spirit

In Westbrook, community and sports go hand in hand. Home to the Westbrook Blue Blazes, the city’s high school teams enjoy strong support and a proud history—especially in football, baseball, lacrosse, and track and field. Game days at Olmsted Field and outdoor pep rallies are local traditions that draw generations of fans together.

Youth leagues and rec sports are thriving thanks to the Westbrook Community Center and local athletic associations, which offer programs in soccer, basketball, baseball, field hockey, cheerleading, and more. Camps and clinics run year-round, encouraging kids to stay active while building teamwork and confidence.

From little league championships to neighborhood pickup games, Westbrook celebrates every level of play.

Parks, Trails & Outdoor Adventure

Surrounded by forested trails, rivers, and public parks, Westbrook is a haven for outdoor recreation. The Presumpscot River is a defining feature of the city—offering kayaking, fishing, and tranquil riverwalks right downtown.

Explore over 7 miles of trails in the Mill Brook Preserve, where hikers can spot wild brook trout and watch the seasonal migration of Atlantic salmon. Nearby Bicentennial Park, Cornelia Warren Four Season Park, and the Westbrook Riverwalk offer green space for walking, biking, sledding, and community gatherings.

Winter brings new opportunities with snowshoeing trails, sledding hills, and access to ski areas less than an hour away.

Fitness & Wellness for All Ages

Westbrook supports active living with a wide range of fitness and wellness options. The Westbrook Community Center serves as a central hub for fitness classes, yoga, martial arts, dance, and senior wellness programming. There are also local gyms, boutique fitness studios, and walking tracks to help residents stay healthy in every season.

Seasonal fun runs, outdoor yoga at Riverbank Park, and wellness-focused events keep the city energized and connected.

Close to the Action: Portland & Beyond

Westbrook’s close proximity to Portland adds a whole new dimension for sports fans:

Plus, with Boston just two hours away, it’s easy to cheer on the Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, or Revolution when the big-league craving kicks in.

An Active Lifestyle, Maine-Style

Whether you're paddling down the Presumpscot, coaching a youth league, or running a 5K through the city’s wooded trails, Westbrook offers the perfect mix of small-town camaraderie and outdoor adventure. It's a place where sports and nature unite—encouraging a way of life that’s spirited, healthy, and deeply connected to the land and community.

Adventures

Adventures

Westbrook is more than a vibrant small city—it’s a gateway to year-round discovery. With scenic trails, hidden waterfalls, historic charm, and easy access to Portland, the lakes region, and the rugged Maine coast, Westbrook invites you to step outside and explore something new—every single day.

Nature & Outdoor Exploration

Westbrook is rooted in natural beauty, with the Presumpscot River winding through town and green spaces just minutes from downtown. The Mill Brook Preserve, a 130-acre natural area, offers serene wooded trails and a rare chance to witness the spring migration of sea-run fish like alewives. It’s a peaceful retreat for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers.

For an easy-to-access local favorite, the Westbrook Riverwalk provides a scenic path along the riverbanks, perfect for morning jogs, dog walks, or a relaxing afternoon by the water.

Nearby parks such as Bicentennial Park, Cornelia Warren Four Season Park, and Cumberland Mills Trail offer open lawns, playgrounds, and year-round recreational access for families, cyclists, and outdoor enthusiasts.

And when the snow falls? Westbrook’s wooded trails and fields transform into a playground for snowshoeing, sledding, and cross-country skiing.

History, Culture & Hidden Gems

With roots dating back to the 1700s, Westbrook has grown from an early industrial hub to a creative, culturally rich community. The city’s mill history lives on in the revitalized Dana Warp Mill, now home to artists, makers, and small businesses that fuel Westbrook’s growing arts scene.

Art lovers will find public murals, gallery events, and rotating exhibits at local institutions. Annual celebrations like Westbrook Together Days bring the community together with music, food, and fireworks along the river.

Downtown Westbrook is filled with cozy coffee shops, craft breweries, international eateries, and bakeries that make the city a delicious destination. Don't miss Portland Pie Company, The Daily Grind, or a riverside beer at Yes Brewing or Bear Bones Beer—each spot full of character and local flavor.

Nearby Day Trips & Coastal Escapes

Westbrook’s central location makes it the perfect launchpad for day trips across southern Maine and beyond:

  • Portland– Just 10 minutes away, Maine’s largest city offers world-class dining, art galleries, boutiques, live music, and waterfront adventures.

  • Old Orchard Beach– Enjoy classic boardwalk fun, sandy beaches, and ocean breezes just 25 minutes south.

  • Sebago Lake– Swim, boat, or relax at one of Maine’s most iconic freshwater destinations, under 30 minutes away.

  • Freeport– Explore outlet shopping, LL Bean’s flagship store, and beautiful coastal trails in this charming New England village.

  • White Mountains (NH)– Hike, ski, or drive scenic byways in the nearby mountain ranges just 90 minutes inland.

No matter the season, Westbrook residents are never far from mountain adventures, coastal getaways, or a vibrant downtown escape.

Seasonal Events

Seasonal Events

Westbrook embraces the seasons with a vibrant mix of community traditions, local pride, and festive celebrations. From snow-dusted tree lightings to riverfront concerts and harvest-time festivals, every season in Westbrook offers meaningful moments that bring neighbors together and highlight the city’s creative, welcoming energy.

Winter to Spring

Winter in Westbrook kicks off with the city’s beloved Winter Lights, where downtown glows with twinkling lights, local choirs sing carols, and families gather for hot cocoa, horse-drawn carriage rides, and a visit from Santa. Local churches, arts groups, and schools host craft fairs, holiday performances, and winter markets, adding warmth to the cold season.

As the snow gives way to spring, the city bursts into renewal. Families flock to Easter Egg Hunts at Riverbank Park and local recreation centers, while the Walker Memorial Library welcomes the season with themed storytimes, seed swaps, and hands-on craft workshops.

Community-minded events like Earth Day cleanups along the Presumpscot River and citywide planting days reflect Westbrook’s strong civic spirit. Spring also marks the return of outdoor youth sports, garden clubs, and local trail cleanups—reviving parks and playfields after the long Maine winter.

Summer to Fall

Summertime in Westbrook is all about fresh air, live music, and riverfront fun. The city’s signature event, Westbrook Together Days, takes over Riverbank Park in June with carnival rides, live music, fireworks, food trucks, and a hometown parade that showcases the city’s vibrant spirit.

The Summer Concert Series at Vallee Square fills the downtown with live bands and outdoor dining vibes, while weekly farmers markets feature local produce, artisan vendors, and community connections. Westbrook’s trails, splash pads, and parks stay busy as residents soak up Maine’s best weather.

As autumn rolls in, harvest-themed events take over the calendar. From pumpkin patches and hayrides at Smiling Hill Farm to spooky fun at Trick-or-Treat on Main Street and city-sponsored Halloween celebrations, families find plenty of reasons to celebrate the season.

Veterans Day is honored with a community ceremony at Westbrook’s Walker Memorial, while fall festivals often feature local musicians, cider tastings, and pop-up makers markets that spotlight the city's thriving creative community.

A City That Celebrates Together

In Westbrook, seasonal events are more than dates on a calendar—they’re joyful expressions of community pride, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re catching fireworks by the river, enjoying live music under summer skies, or sharing cider and stories in the fall, Westbrook invites you to take part in traditions that feel both timeless and uniquely local.

Here, every season is a celebration—and every gathering is a reminder that Westbrook is a place where community truly shines.

Community Resources

Healthcare
Hospitals and Medical Centers

Westbrook offers exceptional access to healthcare services through a blend of established hospitals, local clinics, wellness centers, and public health programs. As a city experiencing steady growth within the Greater Portland area, Westbrook supports residents with quality medical care, preventive services, and wellness initiatives that meet a wide range of health needs—from family care to specialized treatments.

Major Hospitals & Medical Centers

MaineHealth / Maine Medical Center – Portland (10 minutes from Westbrook)
As the flagship hospital in MaineHealth’s integrated care system, Maine Medical Center (MMC) is a nationally ranked teaching hospital providing advanced care in:

  • 24/7 Emergency and Trauma Services

  • Cardiology and Cardiothoracic Surgery

  • Neurology and Neurosurgery

  • Women’s Health and Maternity Services

  • Pediatric care through The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital

MMC also serves as a regional leader in cancer care, transplant services, and surgical specialties, offering Westbrook residents world-class care just minutes away.

Northern Light Mercy Hospital – Portland
Northern Light Mercy
is a full-service hospital offers patient-centered care across a broad spectrum of services, including:

  • Internal Medicine and Primary Care

  • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

  • Endocrinology and Diabetes Management

  • Behavioral Health and Counseling Services

  • Outpatient Surgery and Rehabilitation

Mercy’s main campus and affiliated clinics are conveniently accessible from Westbrook.

Community Health & Outpatient Services

Greater Portland Health – Westbrook Location
As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), Greater Portland Health provides affordable care to all patients, with services including:

  • Primary and family medicine

  • Behavioral and mental health

  • Preventive care and chronic disease management

  • Support for uninsured and underinsured individuals

Martin’s Point Health Care
Located nearby in Portland and Scarborough, Martin’s Point offers:

  • Family medicine and geriatrics

  • On-site labs, imaging, and pharmacy

  • Women’s health, pediatrics, and wellness programs

  • Medicare Advantage and military family care

Specialty & Pediatric Care

The Barbara Bush Children’s Hospital (Portland)
Affiliated with Maine Medical Center, the Barbara Bush Children's Hospital offers:

  • Pediatric ICU and emergency care

  • Neonatology and maternal-fetal medicine

  • Pediatric specialty clinics (cardiology, GI, neurology)

  • Family support and child life services

MaineHealth Cancer Care Network
Through the MaineHealth system, MaineHealth Cancer Care Network provides Westbrook residents with access to coordinated oncology care including:

  • Radiation and chemotherapy

  • Surgical oncology

  • Genetic counseling

  • Clinical trials and survivorship programs

Wellness, Rehabilitation & Preventive Services

Westbrook Community Center
This city-operated facility promotes community wellness through:

  • Fitness and exercise classes (including senior and youth programs)

  • Nutrition and cooking workshops

  • Mental wellness seminars and support groups

  • Partnered health screenings and flu shot clinics

Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation

Multiple providers, including Saco Bay Physical Therapy and New England Rehabilitation Hospital, offer:

  • Post-surgical rehabilitation

  • Sports injury recovery

  • Occupational therapy

  • Chronic pain and mobility programs

Education
Schools and Learning Institutes

Westbrook is a growing city that places education at the center of its community values. With strong public schools, alternative and private options, and proximity to some of Maine’s most respected colleges and universities, Westbrook fosters academic and personal growth for learners of all ages.

Public Schools & Academic Excellence

The Westbrook School Department serves students from pre-K through 12th grade and is recognized for its commitment to inclusive learning, innovative teaching, and community partnerships. The district includes:

  • Multiple neighborhood elementary schools

  • Westbrook Middle School, offering collaborative, project-based learning

  • Westbrook High School, known for its arts programs, JROTC, STEM initiatives, and multilingual student support

Students benefit from diverse course offerings including Advanced Placement (AP) classes, career and technical education (CTE) through nearby Westbrook Regional Vocational Center, and dual-enrollment opportunities with area colleges. The district places a strong emphasis on equity, student well-being, and preparing graduates for both college and the workforce.

Private, Parochial & Alternative Education

Families in Westbrook also have access to a range of independent and faith-based schools in the Greater Portland region, including:

These schools offer intimate class sizes, personalized instruction, and values-driven education rooted in academic excellence and character development.

Higher Education Access

Westbrook’s location just minutes from Portland provides convenient access to several respected colleges and universities, including:

Whether pursuing a four-year degree or building job-ready skills, students in Westbrook benefit from nearby, affordable, and flexible learning pathways.

Lifelong Learning & Community Programs

Learning in Westbrook extends well beyond the classroom. The Walker Memorial Library hosts regular programs for adults and teens, including:

  • Technology & digital literacy classes

  • ESL and citizenship workshops

  • Book discussions, author talks, and career-readiness events

The Westbrook Community Center also provides year-round enrichment for all ages—offering fitness, arts, and educational programs for children, adults, and seniors.

Workforce training, career pivot resources, and continuing education are readily available through regional partnerships with adult ed centers and local employers.

Public Resources
Regional Services and Agencies

Westbrook offers a unique blend of small-city comfort and well-coordinated municipal services, ensuring residents enjoy a high quality of life. From proactive safety departments and well-maintained infrastructure to reliable transit options and seasonal support, Westbrook delivers the resources needed to live well in every season.

City Government & Public Services

Westbrook operates under a City Council–Mayor form of government, with the Mayor serving as the city’s chief executive. The city departments work collaboratively to ensure efficient service delivery, public safety, and community wellness across neighborhoods.

Westbrook is also home to a robust Health Department, City Clerk’s Office, Senior Services through the Community Center, and a Planning & Code Enforcement Office that supports safe development and sustainable growth.

Transportation & Connectivity

With its location just minutes from Portland, Westbrook is a well-connected hub for regional travel and commuting:

Westbrook’s walkable downtown, growing bike infrastructure, and easy access to Portland’s Amtrak station further enhance mobility for residents.

Vehicle Registration and Licensing
Vehicle and driver services for Westbrook residents are handled by the Maine Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV). Local BMV branches provide:

  • Driver’s licenses, learner’s permits, and REAL ID

  • Vehicle registration, title transfers, and license plates

  • Commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) and motorcycle endorsements

  • Disability parking placards and required vehicle inspections

Many BMV services are available online, allowing residents to renew licenses and registrations, schedule appointments, and update personal information conveniently through the official Maine BMV website. 

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