Orono

Orono is a town in Penobscot County situated where the Penobscot and Stillwater rivers converge, surrounded by a mix of water and forested landscapes. The area features varied terrain with river valleys and open spaces typical of inland Maine.

The town was founded in 1774 and initially grew as a logging and milling center serving the regional timber trade. The character shifted dramatically when the University of Maine established itself here in 1865, transforming it into an education-focused community.

The town takes its name from Chief Joseph Orono of the Penobscot Nation, honoring the long-standing connection to the region's Indigenous roots. This naming reflects how local history is woven into the everyday landscape and community identity.

The town is easy to explore by car, with major services and amenities located in nearby Bangor just a short drive away. The river areas and surrounding woods offer trails and outdoor activities for visitors interested in hiking or spending time in nature.

The Fay Hyland Botanical Garden on the university campus displays native Maine plants alongside species from distant climates and regions. This garden serves as both a research space and a place where visitors can learn about plant diversity without traveling far.