TOP : SKYLER EWING / SHUTTERSTOCK , COM ; RIGHT : ANGELA HOLMYARD / SHUTTERSTOCK . COM
BANGOR , MAINE
Any Stephen King fan will instantly recognize Derry , the fictional town where many of the author ’ s twisted tales unfold . But readers might not realize Derry is based on a real place : Bangor , Maine , a town in The Maine Highlands region that King calls home . Despite having just over 31,000 residents , Bangor is the third-largest city in the state boasting a bevy of recreational activities and a charming downtown — complete with a Paul Bunyan statue . However , reminders of King ’ s hair-raising stories are ever-present , and travelers can visit many of the real-life spots reimagined to fit the horror genre such as The Barrens , Thomas Hill Standpipe , Mount Hope Cemetery and the Pet Sematary House .
Often considered one of the best U . S . states for fall foliage , those visiting Maine between late September and late October won ’ t want to miss their opportunity to witness some of the prettiest colors in the nation . And for those adding a visit to Bangor to the agenda , Acadia National Park is one of the closest places to enjoy the autumnal season at just over an hour southeast of the town .
An aerial view of Acadia National Park .
Stephen King ’ s house in Bangor , ME .
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