Paris is a historic Maine town with access to modern conveniences
Nearly equidistant from Augusta to the east and Portland to the south, Paris is the seat of Oxford County in Maine. The town offers both recreational and consumer hubs in the form of abundant outdoor amenities and neighboring Norway’s restaurants and stores, respectively, to a population of just over 5,000. Paris also contains the historic Paris Hill area, which is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places and has buildings from the early-to-mid 19th century; some even date to before 1800. The multifaceted appeal of Paris is what draws homebuyers to the southwestern Maine community, where history and the state’s enduring wilderness are complemented by modern conveniences within driving distance of two major Maine cities.
A variety of property ages in Paris
Paris primarily offers ranch-style and Cape Cod homes in terms of single-family architectural designs, but the ages of houses vary widely. Some date to the 1800s, while homebuyers can also find homes from most decades in the 20th century, and others were built after 2000. Most of those single-family homes range between $250,000 and $500,000 in cost, though more expensive homes often include more acreage. There are also some multi-family homes, which can often range from around $200,000 to $300,000. Manufactured homes can often cost between $140,000 and $280,000. The overall median price for homes in Paris is $300,000, lower than the neighboring town of Norway.
Abundant recreation within the Maine wilderness
The Cornwall Nature Preserve sits in central Paris and has a network of trails spanning 3 miles across nearly 150 acres. The Gouin Athletic Complex has multiple sports fields and is primarily used by the school district, but also hosts community gatherings and youth sports. C-Rex Disc Golf offers an 18-hole course, while the Paris Hill Country Club has nine holes for golfers. Visitors to McLaughlin Garden can tour a historic farm and see various types of flowers. Outdoor enthusiasts can fish in the Little Androscoggin River or at Paine Pond.
Just east, Streaked Mountain Trail is just over a mile long. To the west, Lake Pennesseewassee is also known as Norway Lake and offers nearly 1,000 acres of water. It is popular for swimming, fishing and boating, while the adjacent Lake Pennesseewassee Park has trails and a boat launch. Winter recreation can include ice fishing and snowshoeing. Sugarloaf is a popular skiing destination about 30 miles north.
Students can take part in music programs at Oxford Hills Comprehensive
Within Regional School Unit No. 17, which serves the area and receives a C from Niche, students can start out at the C-rated Paris Elementary School. Oxford Hills Middle School and Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School each earn a C, as well. Oxford Hills Comprehensive High has numerous events revolving around their music programs, including the annual Band Jamboree, Winter Concert and String Fling.
Local dining destinations line Maine state Route 26
Some local restaurants are situated along Route 26 in the southwestern corner of Paris, close to the Norway boundary. Market Square Restaurant serves breakfast every day of the week and is open until dinner every Thursday through Saturday. Diners can find international dishes at Luchador Tacos or Ninja Sushi Asian Bistro, or stop at the nearby Yianni’s House of Pizza. The Inside Scoop has frozen treats, while Maurice serves up French fare. In the neighboring community, Norway Brewing Company has food, drinks and a beer garden. 290 Maine Street has a pub-style atmosphere and classic American dishes. Shoppers often head to Hannaford or Walmart, each around 7 miles or less south of central Paris.
Paris is nearly equidistant from Augusta and Portland
There is no public transportation available within Paris. The most prominent thoroughfare in the community is state Route 26, which runs north-south through the center of Paris. Locals can get into Norway using the route, as well. Portland is nearly 50 miles south, while Augusta is about 50 miles east. The Portland International Jetport sits almost 50 miles south, as well.
Local gatherings are put on during Maine summers
The Paris Parks & Recreation Committee helps put on a number of events throughout the year. The Summer Concert Series & Vendor Fair takes place on most Wednesdays in July and August, spotlighting local vendors while featuring live music and food trucks. Outdoor Movie Nights are also facilitated by the department. Bowlers can head to the Stars & Strikes Bowling Center.
