Local folks and visitors from other states are encouraged to go and experience these five rare, unique places all less than an hour from each other on the picturesque Route 26 in Western Maine.

Just thirty minutes north of Portland, a family can spend a day or several days visiting these five important and interesting destinations for very little money - a true value.

The Maine Wildlife Park, Shaker Village, Poland Spring Inn and Resort, Poland Spring Preservation Society, Poland Spring Preservation Park, and the grounds of McLaughlin Gardens truly are "The Gems of 26."