Dan Cashman got David Letterman to come to Bangor.

Cashman got Letterman to appear on the final episode of his Bangor-based talk show “The Nite Show” in 2025. He hosted the show on Maine TV for 15 years and got lots of people to come to his hometown during that time.

Cashman is also public relations director at Sutherland Weston, a marketing agency in Bangor, which gives him even more intimate knowledge about the city and what makes it special. He took a few minutes to share some of his favorite spots.

Where do you like to eat?

Bangor’s food scene has grown dramatically over the past two decades, but if I had to pick one place, I’d still choose Geaghan’s Pub & Craft Brewery. Geaghan’s has been here through it all. What keeps me coming back isn’t just the food — it’s the people. From the owners to the staff to the regulars, it’s a place that feels like Bangor. The boneless wings with reserve sauce are the best, especially atop the Buffalo chicken salad with blue cheese. And, if I’m feeling particularly hungry, I’m ordering what I consider the greatest sandwich in human history: The Chieftain.

Where do you like to drink?

My friends and I call the Orono Brewing Company Tasting Room on State Street “Cheers” because it’s one of those places where everybody really does know your name. That’s what keeps bringing me back. The list of brews is always headlined by OBC’s signature, Tubular, but I am partial to the Wicked Maine Blueberry Ale and the Sunset Sweeps stout. Don’t expect a full meal, but a slice of pizza, some popcorn, and good conversation are usually enough. And if beer isn’t your thing, Barliman’s is right down the street and serves some of the best cocktails in town.

Where do you like to connect with nature?

I have a few favorite haunts for nature. But I think my favorite is Fields Pond Audubon Center, just outside of Bangor in Holden. Friends of mine know that I have an unnatural fear of birds, but I still love this spot — which must mean it’s good. There are some really lovely nature trails that are doable for kiddos, and the trails are great for walking, snowshoeing, skiing or just enjoying a beautiful day. If you plan ahead, Fields Pond also offers a number of programs throughout the year for all ages. 

Where do you like to shop locally?

I probably spend the most time at The Briar Patch (bookstore) on Central Street. The staff are incredibly knowledgeable, always happy to recommend something new, and they’ll order just about anything they don’t have. My kids love going there, which makes it an easy favorite. And for treasure hunters, it’s hard to beat Antique Marketplace on Main Street. I love searching for additions to my vinyl collection there, although, speaking from experience, you can lose an afternoon wandering through booths filled with unexpected finds.

What’s a hidden gem or can’t-miss place in town?

I don’t know that it’s hidden, but Bangor’s arts scene is definitely a can’t-miss part of the city. On any given week you can hear The Bangor Band playing outdoors on a summer evening, catch a Bangor Symphony Orchestra performance at the Collins Center for the Arts in Orono, see a show from Some Theatre Company, or stumble across art while walking downtown on buildings, in shops like the Rock & Art Shop, and in places like the University of Maine’s Zillman Art Museum. For a city our size, the amount of music, theater and visual art available is remarkable. It’s one of the things that makes Bangor feel much bigger than it is.

Five Things is a feature in which locals give our readers suggestions for exploring the state of Maine, town by town. Have a city or town you think we should explore in the future? Tell News & Culture Editor Katherine Lee at [email protected].