Summer & Spring Activities
Spring and summer in Orono bring a vibrant transformation, offering unmatched access to the Maine Highlands as the landscape bursts into bloom. From the quiet beauty of the Orono Bog Boardwalk to sun-drenched days on the Stillwater River, Hotel Ursa serves as your perfect basecamp for exploring miles of lush trails and local farmers' markets.
Maine Savings AmphitheaterWaterfront Concerts
Summer in the Bangor area comes alive with concerts at the Maine Savings Amphitheater, where an exciting lineup of major artists brings unforgettable nights of live music to the waterfront. Just a short drive from Orono, it’s the perfect summer outing. Pair the show with a stay at Hotel Ursa and explore special packages and experiences designed to make your concert weekend even more memorable.
Top Outdoor Adventures in the Maine Highlands
From the iconic Acadia National Park to the beauty of Baxter State Park, Hotel Ursa serves as your premier hub for Maine’s most legendary landscapes. Locally, you can immerse yourself in the uniqueness of the Orono Bog Boardwalk or enjoy a sunnny afternoon on the waters of Pushaw Lake, all just a short drive from our campus location.
Baxter State Park
Immerse yourself in over 200,000 acres of "forever wild" wilderness, home to the legendary Mount Katahdin and the northern terminus of the Appalachian Trail.
Plan Your Visit
Acadia National Park
Experience the "Crown Jewel of the North Atlantic Coast," where you can hike granite peaks, bike historic carriage roads, and witness the first sunrise in the U.S. atop Cadillac Mountain.
Plan Your Visit
Pushaw Lake
Enjoy a quintessential Maine lake day with pristine waters perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing for smallmouth bass—all just minutes from our front door.
Plan Your Visit
Orono Bog Walk
Take a peaceful stroll along this 4,200-foot wheelchair-accessible wooden walkway that leads you through a fascinating peatland ecosystem filled with rare plants and vibrant birdlife.
Plan Your VisitMaine Trail FinderHirundo Wildlife Refuge
Located just minutes from Hotel Ursa, the Hirundo Wildlife Refuge spans over 2,400 acres of protected wetlands and forests, offering a serene escape for nature lovers. Guests can explore miles of peaceful trails, paddle along the tranquil streams, or participate in guided educational programs that highlight the diverse ecosystems of the Maine Highlands.
This sprawling sanctuary is a haven for wildlife viewing, where you might spot moose, otters, or rare bird species in their natural habitat. Whether you are seeking a quiet morning stroll or an afternoon of paddling, Hirundo provides a true connection to the untouched beauty of the Maine wilderness.
Maine Stargazing
at Hotel Ursa
Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of the cosmos with our exclusive Stargazing Over Hirundo package. Hosted at the Hirundo Wildlife Refuge, this immersive evening invites you to escape the city lights and journey through the heavens guided by renowned astronomer Shawn Laatsch. You'll utilize high-powered telescopes to peer deep into the night sky, uncovering the shimmering details of distant galaxies, glowing nebulae, and ancient star clusters. After a night of celestial discovery, retreat to the modern comfort of Hotel Ursa to rest and "dream among the stars."
- Overnight accommodations in a well-appointed guest room at Hotel Ursa.
- A guided stargazing session led by expert astronomer Shawn Laatsch.
- Professional telescope access for high-definition viewing of the universe.
- Exclusive after-hours access to the natural beauty of Hirundo Wildlife Refuge.
2026 Dates: April 18th | May 16th | June 11th | September 10th | October 10th
Maine Natural ResourcesDark Sky Preservation
In a landmark move to protect the state’s natural heritage, Maine has enacted its first law to regulate light pollution, ensuring our famously dark skies remain pristine for generations to come. This legislation supports the "dark sky economy" and complements the nearby AMC Maine Woods International Dark Sky Park, the first of its kind in New England and a core part of the 100-Mile Wilderness. Hotel Ursa is perfectly positioned just outside this prestigious dark sky zone, serving as your comfortable gateway to the most unspoiled celestial views in the Northeast.
Explore Orono, And Beyond
Perfectly positioned for both local charm and grand Maine adventures, Hotel Ursa serves as your ultimate Maine basecamp. We are the ideal jumping-off point for those heading north toward the rugged beauty of Katahdin and the Maine lake region, or east for a quieter, breathtaking coastal experience in Bar Harbor.
Book your spring or summer stay today and be sure to explore our exclusive packages and specials to make the most of the season.