St. Croix Island International Historic Site

St. Croix Island International Historic Site is 8 mi. s. on US 1 to 84 St. Croix Dr. The site, on the mainland shore of the St. Croix River, offers a view of 6.5-acre St. Croix Island, settled by the French in 1604. Many in the French expedition died of scurvy that winter and were buried on the island; the survivors departed and founded Port Royal in present-day Nova Scotia.

An interpretive trail leading to the viewpoint is adorned with bronze statues of French settlers and Passamaquoddy Native Americans who were present when the French arrived. A model depicting the settlement as it may have appeared in 1604 is displayed. The visitor center features interpretive panels, Native American baskets and replicas of artifacts excavated on the island. Ranger-led interpretive talks are offered daily mid-May through Columbus Day.

Note: Visits to the island are discouraged due to the island's fragile nature. Picnicking is permitted on the mainland.

Picnicking is permitted. Time: Allow 30 minutes minimum.