Milbridge Commons Wellness Park
A coastal green space that enhances well-being through physical activity, nutritious food, connections to nature and one another.Imagine this.
You are in downtown Milbridge. But a quick walk transports you to a place of natural splendor, serenity, and a sense of remoteness. You have arrived at Milbridge Commons, where you are instantly connected to nature via the sweeping views of Narraguagus Bay, winding walking trails that follow the curve of the land, and in summer months, bountiful gardens, lush with organic vegetables. Picnic tables, a magical playground, and a children’s garden offer family fun.
Women for Healthy Rural Living collaborated with Maine Coast Heritage Trust to make this vision a reality. Together we have created a community destination at Milbridge Commons that reflects the character of the community and serves the needs and interests of its people.
Parking Notice
Milbridge Commons has a small parking lot with little room for large vehicles to turn around. Therefore, we do not allow Buses, RVs, or vehicles with trailers in the park. Alternative parking for large vehicles can be found at Schooner Gallery, Bayside Shop ‘n Save and Wyman’s (at the corner of Route 1 and Wyman Road).
For cars, if parking is full, you may park in the WHRL parking lot at 87 Main Street.
Park Use
Public Welcome!
Milbridge Commons information/guidelines:
- Open dawn to dusk (unless prior arrangements are made)
- Motorized vehicles and bicycles are not permitted on the walking track
- Dogs must be kept on leash–no dogs in the gardens
- Must pick up after your pet
- Carry in/carry out–leave no trace
- No fires or camping
- Respect private property
- Respect other visitors’ peaceful use and enjoyment of the park
- Read our Public Event Policy for group events
IEM Garden Guidelines
- RESPECT signs and picking instructions
- Be CONSIDERATE–pick only enough for
meal or two–leave some for your neighbors - Be HEALTHY–no dogs in the garden
- Be MINDFUL–stay on paths, leave no trace
- Be ATTENTIVE–supervise children at all times in the garden
Imagine the community you want.
Together, we can create it.
Park Features
Incredible Edible Milbridge Gardens
Milbridge Commons features one of WHRL’s two Incredible Edible Milbridge large free pick-your-own veggie gardens in Milbridge. The Commons features 18,000 square feet of organically grown veggies that are free to pick and enjoy! Click here to learn more about Incredible Edible Milbridge.
Transitory
Transitory created by Dominika Griesgraber from Poland during the 2014 Schoodic International Sculpture Symposium. Transitory is a stop on the Maine Sculpture Trail. Originally located on the grounds of the Milbridge Medical Center, the sculpture was moved to Milbridge Commons Wellness Park in 2021.
Children's Mud Kitchen
In the heart of the Children’s Garden is a Mud Kitchen where kids can let their imagination run free!
Earth Loom
This free-standing loom built by Aaron Dvorkin is a place for the community to contribute to art at Milbridge Commons through simple weaving. Add flowers, leaves, meadow grass, cotton or wool fabric strips – anything organic!
Picnic Tables
Milbridge Commons is the perfect place for your family picnic with adult-size and child-size picnic tables.
Bill Arnold Memorial Bench
This granite bench constructed by Jesse Salisbury, was placed in 2019 to honor Bill Arnold, one of Incredible Edible Milbridge’s very first volunteers.
“I didn’t want to place a formal bench in a landscape that is celebrating nature. What I wanted to do was put a natural boulder back in the landscape that hides a perfect relaxing spot in front of a fantastic view.” ~ Jesse Salisbury
Children's Nook
The Children’s Nook is a 2023 addition to the Children’s Garden – a cedar post and beam structure with a living roof imagined and built by Aaron Dvorkin. Outfitted with a cedar stump table and stools, it provides a magical spot to linger and play.
Shade Canopies
Two Duvall Canopies provide shade with a view from May through October.
Adirondack Chairs
Ten bright blue Adirondack chairs that invite visitors to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Ed Flanagan Pollinator Garden
While serving 24 years as CEO at Wyman’s of Maine, Ed was a leader in the effort to save the honeybees. He delivered testimony to a Congressional hearing on USDA funding for bee health, where he warned, “No bees, no berries.” Under Ed’s leadership, Wyman’s has grown to be a national leader in bee conservation. Ed’s contributions are not limited to the insect world. Ed and wife Jane have also strengthened the Downeast community through their advocacy and philanthropy, crafting a legacy of caring and compassion.
Interpretive Pollinator Signs
The Ed Flanagan Pollinator Garden features five interpretive bee signs from the book “Native Bees,” written and illustrated by Nicole DeBarber.
Children's Little Free Library
This “Whimsical Tree House” Little Free Library sits next to the Children’s Garden. We thank community member Aaron Dvorkin for his artistry and skill in crafting what looks like a quaint tree house growing by the garden. Open the glass door, and you’ll find a delightful display of books on gardening and nature for kids. Take a book, leave a book!
This library is part of the Downeast Roots Little Free Library and Art Trail.
Children's Play Area
The Play Area incorporates a Cedar Works play structure for climbing and four Freenotes Harmony Park musical instruments.
Milbridge Commons Walking Trail
The trail at Milbridge Commons follows the curve of the land offering sweeping views of the Narraguagus Bay. This loop is 975′ long. Walking can complete a mile in just under 5 1/2 laps. This 6′ wide trail has a deep gravel base topped with stone dust that makes it easier on the joints than pavement. It is stroller and wheelchair friendly allowing everyone access to this fabulous space.
Circle of Stones
Our Circle of Stones seating area constructed by Jesse Salisbury, was placed in 2022. The perfect place to gather with friends and enjoy the magic of this wonderful park.
Butterfly Wall
Created by Maeve Perry, this delightful butterfly wall is the perfect spot for photo opportunities!
Chronolog
How does our garden grow? This citizen-science chronolog station captures the seasonal changes and activities of the Incredible Edible garden at Milbridge Commons Wellness Park. Stop by, take a photo with your phone, and add it to our timelapse video!
The Views at McClellan Park Lighthouse
Artist Janie Snider painted “The Views at McClellan Park” lighthouse as a tribute to McClellan Park in Milbridge. “The painting is my understanding of the views from daylight to dusk in a 360 degree view!” The lighthouse was purchased at auction and donated to Women for Healthy Rural Living, who chose to give this beautiful artwork a permanent home at Milbridge Commons.
Image Gallery
