Renys Gardiner

The Gardiner Renys opened in 1956 in this historic Kennebec County community. Visit Gardiner, part of Main Street Maine, for an authentic Maine downtown experience! Founded in 1754 at the head of navigation on the Kennebec River by Dr. Silverstein Gardiner, a prominent Boston physician, the town was originally known for lumber, trade and shipbuilding. Later, though, Gardiner became known worldwide for exporting ice.

It’s the perfect town for a Maine adventure, and Gardiner’s history has been full of just that. It’s been home to many prominent Mainers, like Governors, Senators, artists, and more. After growing into a bustling mill town in the 1800s, Gardiner had to adapt again as paper mills closed in the 1960s. Today, Gardiner enjoys its status as an authentic, historic New England town noted for its culture and beautiful historic architecture.

The town is home to a Designated Main Street in recognition of the restoration efforts in town. Find exciting shopping, delicious food, art galleries, the Gardiner Heritage Museum, or explore the nearby Center for Maine Craft. You might have trouble deciding where to eat dinner in downtown Gardiner with locally sourced restaurants. Explore one of Maine’s oldest town squares when you visit Gardiner Common, or hike the Kennebec River Trail. Enjoy exciting downtown events like the annual Swine & Stein Oktoberfest.