“Flyaway” Mill Tour
Our annual “FLYAWAY MILL TOUR” continues to take members beyond our region to explore top-tier facilities and innovative practices from leaders across the country. This tour offers a unique opportunity to discover diverse markets and learn from forward-thinking companies that are shaping the future of building products and technologies.
In addition to impactful LBM visits and networking, each destination includes time to enjoy memorable area attractions, such as vibrant downtown districts, scenic landmarks, and must-see regional highlights. These experiences enrich the tour by offering a well-rounded, enjoyable journey that blends professional development with personal connection. Join us to gain fresh perspectives, exchange ideas, and explore exciting destinations—professionally and personally inspiring.
2026 Maine Mill Tour
Sunday, September 27 - Friday, October 2, 2026
Five days. One unforgettable stretch of coastline dotted with seaside towns. LBM industry tour access. And the kind of experiences you don’t get on your own. If this sounds appealing, JOIN US ON THE 2026 MAINE MILL TOUR!
We’ll enjoy a memorable tour through coastal Maine, known as both the “Pine Tree State” for its vast, dense forests and the “Vacationland” for its iconic coastal charm and summer escapes - a fitting backdrop for our tour that blends LBM industry visits and free time in some of the region’s most charming seaside towns!
The itinerary includes inside looks at the region’s forest products industry - from high-end window and door manufacturing and multi-generational lumber operations to cutting-edge composites research and large-scale 3D printing. We’ll also include a unique, industry-adjacent stop that highlights the craftsmanship and design side of working with wood.
Scattered between our industry visits, we’ll include plenty of sight-seeing, including a guided tour of Acadia National Park along with several opportunities for unstructured free time throughout the trip to explore Maine’s coastal communities at your own pace. This balance allows you to experience one of the region’s most iconic natural landmarks with a knowledgeable guide, while also leaving space to simply enjoy the character and charm of each destination on your own. You’ll have time to wander, shop, and dine in a variety of seaside towns, including Portland’s Old Port, Bar Harbor, Kennebunkport, and additional coastal communities along the way.
Important Registration Details:
Phase 1 (Members Only on the Interest List): Anticipated registration open date is Tuesday, June 9 (email will be send around 8:00 am) to those on the Interest List. Spots are first come, first served and typically go fast (we sold out in about an hour last year).
Phase 2 (All others): Opens Thursday, June 11 to everyone else, IF SPACE REMAINS.
NEW THIS YEAR: Phase 1 is limited to current or retired BLD members only that are on the Interest List. Guests and non-members must wait until Phase 2 (if space is available). This new policy is due to increasing demand in our Mill Tours. We feel obliged to honor our members first.
Estimated Pricing (subject to final confirmation):
MEMBERS
- $2550 per person (double occupancy/sharing hotel room) / $5100 per couple
- $3250 per person (single occupancy/own hotel room)
NON-MEMBERS
- $2800 per person (double occupancy/sharing hotel room) / $5600 per couple
- $3500 per person (single occupancy/own hotel room)
The full brochure with itinerary details will be sent at the end of May—stay tuned!
We can't wait to share more... this is one you won't want to miss.
For questions and to join the interest list, reach out to Jodie at jodie@bldconnection.org or 763-595-4058.
LBM Suppliers - Be a Mill Tour Host!
Does your company have a building material manufacturing facility? Do you love to educate buyers on your company culture and how your products are made? Are you looking for a fantastic marketing opportunity in which you'll have the undivided attention of dozens of lumberyard dealers?
If you answered YES, you may be the perfect Mill Tour host for us! Contact us at (888) 544-6822 to discuss and be considered for upcoming opportunities.
Past Mill Tour Recaps
Although BLD has been holding Mill Tours for MANY years prior, this compilation starts in 2011.
