Attractions

The tourist bureau and the local historical society publish a very informative walking-tour brochure covering downtown Yarmouth. It's well worth requesting at the Yarmouth Visitor Centre . The guide offers general tips on what to look for in local architectural styles (how do you tell the difference between Georgian and Classic Revival?), as well as brief histories of significant buildings. The entire tour is 4km (2 1/2 miles) long.

The most scenic side trip -- an ideal excursion by bike or car -- is to Cape Forchu and the Yarmouth Light. Head west on Main Street (Rte. 1) for 2km (1 1/4 miles) from the visitor center, then turn left at the horse statue. The road winds out to the cape, past seawalls and working lobster wharves, meadows, and old homes.

When the road finally ends, you'll have arrived at the red-and-white-striped concrete lighthouse that marks this harbor's entrance. (The lighthouse dates from the early 1960s, when it replaced a much older octagonal lighthouse that succumbed to wind and time.) There's a tiny photographic exhibit on the cape's history in the visitor center in the keeper's house.

Leave enough time to ramble around the dramatic rock-and-grass bluffs -- part of Leif Ericson Picnic Park -- that surround the lighthouse. Don't miss the short trail out to the point below the light. Bright red picnic tables and benches are scattered about; bring lunch or dinner if the weather is right.