Bangor in November

November weather, activities, events & insider tips

November Weather in Bangor

18°C (64°F) High Temp

2°C (36°F) Low Temp

89 mm (3.5 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is November Right for You?

Advantages

Autumn foliage peaks in early November along the Penobscot River - maples and oaks create spectacular red-orange displays, best viewed from Bass Park trails and Thomas Hill Standpipe
Tourist crowds thin dramatically after Halloween - major attractions like the Stephen King landmarks and downtown historic district become significantly less crowded
Hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to peak fall foliage season in October, with midweek stays averaging $80-120 versus $140-180 in peak season
Perfect hiking weather with crisp 10-15°C (50-59°F) daytime temperatures - ideal for Acadia day trips just 45 minutes away without summer heat or winter ice

Considerations

Daylight hours shrink to just 10 hours by late November (sunrise 6:30am, sunset 4:30pm), limiting outdoor photography and sightseeing time
Many seasonal attractions close after Halloween including several waterfront tours and outdoor festivals, reducing activity options significantly
Weather becomes unpredictable with potential for early snow flurries and freezing temperatures, especially after mid-November when temperatures can drop to -4°C (25°F)

Best Activities in November

Acadia National Park Day Trips

November offers Acadia's most peaceful experience with dramatically reduced crowds and crisp hiking conditions. Late fall colors persist through early November, and the 3.3-mile (5.3 km) Ocean Path becomes ideal for photography without summer heat or winter ice. Wildlife viewing improves as animals prepare for winter.

Booking Tip: Book accommodations in Montenegro Harbor 2-3 weeks ahead as many properties close for winter after mid-November. Day trip transportation typically costs $40-60 per person. Check current tour availability as many operators reduce schedules after November 15th.

Stephen King Literary Tours

Bangor's connection to Stephen King becomes especially atmospheric in November's shorter days and crisp weather. Self-guided walks through King's neighborhood and past his iconic Victorian mansion are more comfortable in cool temperatures. Local bookstores host special King-themed events during the pre-holiday season.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours cost nothing but guided literary walks typically run $15-25 per person. Book weekend tours 1-2 weeks ahead through local visitor centers. Many tours add indoor components during colder November days.

Penobscot River Scenic Drives

Late autumn transforms the Penobscot River corridor into a photographer's great destination. The 25-mile (40 km) drive to Bucksport showcases bare trees creating intricate silhouettes against November skies. River mists in cool morning temperatures create dramatic atmospheric effects perfect for photography.

Booking Tip: Self-drive tours offer maximum flexibility for November's unpredictable weather. Rental cars typically cost $45-65 per day in November. Plan drives between 10am-3pm for best light during short daylight hours.

Historic Downtown Walking Tours

Bangor's 19th-century lumber baron architecture looks impressive against November's dramatic skies. The compact 0.8-mile (1.3 km) historic district becomes comfortable for walking in crisp temperatures. Many historic buildings offer warm indoor exhibits perfect for ducking inside during brief rain showers.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours using smartphone apps are free, guided tours typically cost $10-18 per person. Book indoor backup activities as November weather can change quickly. Most tours run 90 minutes including indoor stops.

Local Brewery and Distillery Tastings

November marks the release of seasonal winter ales and holiday spirits at Bangor's craft beverage scene. Cozy indoor tastings become perfect for cool November evenings. Many venues feature warming seasonal cocktails and locally-sourced ingredients ideal for the harvest season.

Booking Tip: Tastings typically cost $12-25 per person for 4-5 samples. Make weekend reservations 1-2 weeks ahead as venues get busy with pre-holiday events. Many offer special November seasonal releases not available other months.

Antique Shopping and Indoor Markets

November's cool weather makes indoor antique browsing particularly appealing. Bangor's antique district along Hammond Street features heated shops perfect for spending several hours treasure hunting. Many dealers offer pre-holiday sales and unique Maine-made items ideal for early gift shopping.

Booking Tip: Most antique shops operate Tuesday-Saturday with reduced Sunday hours. Allow 2-3 hours for serious browsing. Prices range widely but unique Maine items typically cost $25-150. Bring cash as many smaller dealers prefer it.

November Events & Festivals

Multiple dates throughout November

Bangor Symphony Orchestra Fall Concert Series

The BSO presents classical and contemporary concerts throughout November at the historic Bangor Auditorium. These intimate performances showcase regional talent and provide sophisticated entertainment perfect for cool November evenings.

Early to mid November

Local Harvest Festivals and Farmers Markets

Several area farms host final harvest celebrations and indoor markets featuring Maine-grown produce, crafts, and preserved goods. These family-friendly events showcase authentic Maine rural culture and offer opportunities to stock up on local specialties.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Insulated waterproof hiking boots rated for temperatures down to -10°C (14°F) - essential for potential frost and wet trail conditions

Layered clothing system: base layer, fleece or wool mid-layer, and waterproof shell jacket for rapidly changing November weather

Waterproof gloves and warm hat - November mornings can drop to 2°C (36°F) making extremities uncomfortably cold during outdoor activities

High-quality rain jacket with hood - November averages 10 rainy days with showers lasting 1-3 hours

Portable phone charger and backup battery - cold weather drains batteries faster and shorter daylight hours mean more indoor time needed

Comfortable walking shoes with good traction for potentially wet or icy sidewalks, especially in early morning and evening

SPF 30+ sunscreen despite low UV index - reflection off wet surfaces and snow flurries can cause unexpected sunburn

Small daypack for carrying layers as temperatures fluctuate 16°C (29°F) between morning lows and afternoon highs

Cash in small bills - many seasonal vendors and smaller antique shops prefer cash transactions in shoulder season

Compact umbrella that fits in daypack - November showers are often brief but intense, catching visitors unprepared

Insider Knowledge

Visit Thomas Hill Standpipe (Bangor's iconic water tower) on clear November mornings between 9-11am when low-angle sunlight creates the most dramatic photography of the surrounding bare trees and distant mountains

Local restaurants switch to heartier fall menus in November featuring Maine ingredients like root vegetables and preserved seafood - ask about seasonal specials not listed on regular menus

Many Bangor B&Bs offer significant midweek discounts in November and include breakfast featuring local maple syrup and apple products from recent harvests

The University of Maine campus becomes a locals' favorite walking spot in November when students are busy with finals - the campus arboretum shows excellent late fall color without tourist crowds

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating how early darkness falls - by late November sunset occurs at 4:30pm, cutting outdoor sightseeing time short if not planned accordingly

Assuming all seasonal attractions remain open - many waterfront tours, some restaurants, and outdoor activity providers close or reduce hours significantly after Halloween

Packing only for cool weather without preparing for potential temperature swings - November can range from 18°C (64°F) sunny afternoons to near-freezing mornings with frost