Limestone, Maine
Home of the Maine School of Science and Mathematics.
Overview
Limestone carries a distinctive legacy unlike any other Maine community, shaped by decades as home to Loring Air Force Base, one of the Strategic Air Command’s northernmost installations during the Cold War. From 1947 until the base’s closure in 1994, Loring defined this Aroostook County town, bringing thousands of military personnel and their families to Maine’s far north and establishing infrastructure that continues to shape community life today.
The base’s closure initially devastated Limestone’s economy, but creative adaptation has transformed the former military installation into Loring Commerce Centre, an industrial park that attracts businesses seeking affordable space and northern Maine’s transportation connections. Meanwhile, portions of the old runway now serve as Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge, providing habitat for grassland birds and other species in a landscape uniquely suited to wildlife conservation.
Education provides another distinctive element of Limestone’s identity through the Maine School of Science and Mathematics, a prestigious public magnet school drawing academically talented students from across the state. Located on the former base campus, MSSM offers rigorous STEM education in a residential setting, bringing bright young people to this remote community and establishing Limestone as an unlikely center of academic excellence.
The town’s deeper roots stretch to 1849 settlement and agricultural development in Aroostook’s fertile potato country. The distinctive limestone deposits that gave the town its name indicated the rich soils that would support generations of farming. Agriculture continues alongside the new economy, with potato fields still surrounding the community and connecting Limestone to the broader County farming culture.
The Maine Solar System Model adds another unique element, with Limestone positioned near the inner planets of this remarkable 100-mile scale representation stretching along Route 1. Trafton Lake provides local recreation, while Caribou’s services lie just ten minutes away.
For those interested in Cold War history, agricultural heritage, or simply experiencing Maine’s far north, Limestone offers a community unlike any other in the state.
Key Facts
What Limestone Is Known For
Limestone Local Highlights
Things to Do
Living in Limestone
Limestone offers affordable living in Maine's far north with a unique blend of agricultural heritage and aviation history. The town of 1,526 residents provides access to world-class education at MSSM and peaceful rural living near Caribou's services. Harsh winters and remote location attract hardy residents who value community, wide-open spaces, and northern Maine's distinctive character.
Weather & Seasons
summer
Mild, 65-78°F
winter
Very cold and snowy, -5-20°F
spring
Cool, 32-52°F
fall
Crisp, 35-58°F
Local Wildlife & Nature
How to Get There
Limestone is located in northern Aroostook County along Route 89, approximately 10 minutes south of Caribou and 15 minutes from the Canadian border. From Presque Isle, take Route 1 north to Caribou, then Route 89 south to Limestone. The town sits at 46.9°N latitude, making it one of Maine's northernmost communities.
Satellite preview shows the approximate town outline to help you get oriented before you arrive.
Satellite preview
Limestone outline
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened to Loring Air Force Base?
Loring Air Force Base closed in 1994 after serving as a Strategic Air Command installation from 1947. Today, the former base operates as Loring Commerce Centre industrial park, and portions serve as Aroostook National Wildlife Refuge.
What is the Maine Solar System Model?
It's the largest 3-D scale model solar system in the western hemisphere, stretching nearly 100 miles from the Sun in Presque Isle to Eris in Topsfield. Each mile represents one astronomical unit, with planets along Route 1 featuring pocket parks and information panels.
What is the Maine School of Science and Mathematics?
MSSM is a prestigious public magnet high school located in Limestone, offering advanced STEM education to academically talented students from across Maine. It provides a rigorous residential program on the former Air Force Base campus.