Brunswick City Guide

Local food is seafood-focused with lobster, clam chowder, and blueberries. You'll find Italian, Mexican, and Asian options. Vegetarian and vegan choices are common in cafes. Late-night options are mostly fast food, as most restaurants close by 9 or 10 PM.

Nightlife is modest, centered on casual pubs and breweries with some live music. No clubs or large venues.

The coffee scene is good with local and specialty cafes offering quality brews and a community vibe.

Tipping is expected in restaurants and services. 15-20% is standard for good service, with 18% common for meals. Small tips or rounding up is common for quick service.

SIM cards can be bought at major carriers like AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile or retailers like Best Buy. eSIMs are widely available. No ID or passport needed for prepaid SIMs.

The town is clean with regular waste pickup and good sanitation.

Limited 24/7 services. Some late pharmacies and convenience stores, emergency rooms always open, but most businesses close early.

Main supermarkets like Hannaford and Shaw's carry international products, though selection is limited compared to bigger cities. The Brunswick Farmers' Market offers seasonal local produce. Stores usually open 7 AM to 9 or 10 PM and stay open on Sundays with some holiday exceptions.

Most places accept credit and debit cards. Cash is optional but handy for some local vendors or farmers' markets.

ATMs are easy to find at banks like Bank of America and TD Bank, plus many grocery and convenience stores. Expect fees of $2.50 to $5.00 for out-of-network usage, plus your bank's fees.

Brunswick has public schools including high, junior high, and elementary schools. Instruction is mainly in English. No international schools locally; nearest are in larger cities.

The digital nomad scene is small and informal. No regular meetups or co-living spaces, but cafes and coworking spaces host remote workers.

Plenty of green spaces like the Town Mall and river paths with shaded walking and running options.

Popular routes along the Androscoggin River path and Town Mall. Generally safe with good air quality and scenic waterfront loops.

Gyms range from 24/7 chains to community centers and college facilities.

Public and college tennis courts exist, mostly hard surfaces. Courts are first-come, first-served, no common rentals.

No known padel courts in Brunswick.

Several yoga studios offer a variety of classes with English-speaking instructors. Drop-in and memberships available.

Several martial arts schools teach Taekwondo, Kung Fu, boxing, and self-defense. Instructors speak English.

Ski resorts like Lost Valley are 45 minutes away, with larger resorts 2-3 hours out. Season runs late fall through spring with terrain for all levels.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular with rentals and guided tours available. Best from late spring to early fall.

Surfing spots are limited and mostly south of Brunswick. Water is cold year-round, best waves come in fall and winter. Wetsuits are needed.

Cold-water diving available on Maine's coast with sites like shipwrecks. Visibility varies and is best in summer.

Mid Coast Hospital provides full services with English-speaking staff. Urgent care clinics and pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens are available. Quality of care is generally high, mostly private system.

Tap water from Brunswick & Topsham Water District is safe and meets federal and state standards.

Several public playgrounds and family-friendly cafes exist. Baby supplies can be bought locally. Family attractions include Maine State Music Theatre and nearby Maine Maritime Museum.

Brunswick is welcoming and safe with legal protections and community groups. Pride events happen regionally.

Pet-friendly with many parks allowing leashed dogs. Veterinary clinics and pet supply stores are available.