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Despite minimal marketing efforts, Aroostook’s former Air Force base thrives as a tourism destination


A volunteer group in Limestone, Maine, is working to boost tourism at the former Loring Air Force Base, which closed in 1994. Most redevelopment efforts have focused on industry and businesses, but tourism has emerged as a potential growth opportunity. Since the opening of the Loring Air Museum in 2005, thousands of visitors have been drawn to the base’s historic sites tied to the Cold War.

The tourism growth at Loring could complement new businesses at the base, such as a potato chip plant and sustainable aviation fuel facility. The region saw a 17.5% increase in visitors last year, showing the potential for further growth. Efforts to showcase iconic landmarks like the arch hangar, weapons storage area, and former weapons storage area have proven successful in attracting tourists.

Recent efforts to save the arch hangar have garnered increased visitor interest, with plans to explore restoration grants and partnerships with the museum. Additionally, there is growing interest in the former weapons storage area, now part of the Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge, which offers guided tours to view remaining bunkers and other historic buildings.

With the potential for federal funding and partnerships with organizations like the Air Museum, Loring Development Authority aims to capitalize on the tourism opportunities at the base. The goal is to attract more tourists to the region while also supporting economic development initiatives. The Loring Air Museum’s upcoming open house and guided tours of the Depot area are expected to further boost tourism in Aroostook County.

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Photo credit www.bangordailynews.com

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