Explore Bangor's Stephen King Tour: Secrets, Stories, and Chilling Real-Life Locations

by Jaimz Dillman

In the tiny town of Bangor, Maine, a small family-run company takes visitors and Stephen King enthusiasts on a tour of Derry delights. The Tinker family has taken literature, movie, and TV fans through the streets of Queen City for the last 14 years. Highlights of the 2.5 hours spent with our driving guide include gravestones that inspired notable characters in King’s stories, the storm drain that would go on to create nightmares of clowns in the sewers, and, lastly, King’s mansion.

Our tour guide, Jamie, told stories of his family’s friendship with “Uncle Steve” as we rode past storefronts that became locales in the fictional town of Derry, Maine. What may be the Big Apple corner store in one becomes the Red Apple corner store in another. King had a habit of walking the town for miles in his early days of residence, letting the town’s layout and flavor color his chapters with what surrounded him.

Being a longtime fan, I was aware of Maine becoming the backdrop to many of the pages I read starting in 3rd grade. I was definitely reprimanded for reading above my age, but hey, as Mom said, I was reading.

What we didn’t realize was the philanthropic effort the King family has bestowed on areas throughout the city. Never taking credit on his own, King has funded locations like the baseball field and city pool, which are named in honor of residents, showing a softer side of this horror master.

Time is well spent with stops at notable venues allowing for pictures, stories, and bathroom breaks. The long mansion gates are simply stunning, and that’s as far as you’ll get. You’re allowed to take photos but have no access to the house or Uncle Steve if spotted. Take note: he no longer lives in Bangor.

Water is also included to keep everyone hydrated, plus a couple of fun extras. Jamie’s wife awaits in the gift shop at check-in and after guests return, with plenty of merch to stock up on all needful things. Loads of photos and memorabilia also line the walls of the tiny tour cottage, plus fun photo ops outside to round out your experience. Make sure you give yourself time to peruse and take it all in.

What stood out from this tour for us was the personal connection the family has not only to Stephen King but also to the town they take great pride in. While Bangor may be less than 35 square miles, the fictional town of Derry lives large in the hearts of the Tinkers and the dark minds of King fans.

Group, private, and specialty tours are available for booking at https://sk-tours.com