Popular Dive Bar in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, Closes Permanently

There's something to be said for a good dive bar. For a very long time, dive bars have existed across Maine to welcome visitors for a cheap pint, a game of pool or darts or just some really interesting conversation.

For many towns and cities across Maine, dive bars in those communities are like landmarks. Some people meet at church, others at a dive. Sometimes it's both.

But making a go of it as a dive bar in a time when everything is a bit more expensive can be challenging. Which partially explains why a popular dive in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, is closing permanently right before the height of tourism season.

GFB Scottish Pub in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, Has Closed Permanently

According to Saco Bay News, GFB Scottish Pub closed their doors permanently on Sunday, May 3.

GFB had been known by locals as a rare year-round beacon. It opened 13 years ago and has been a reliable place to grab a drink, some grub or sing some karaoke and have some laughs.

The owners of GFB were always present. But that year-round presence, long days and rising costs all contributed to the decision to close GFB Scottish Pub down for good.

GFB Scottish Pub Closing Will Leave a Hole For Old Orchard Beach, Maine

OOB is about to come alive for another season with many businesses open or planning to open in the coming weeks. There will be live music, dancing, comedy and plenty of people.

One understated thing GFB Scottish Pub offered people in Old Orchard Beach, Maine, was a place to hide but still be social.

The pub looked every bit of a dive tucked off the main drag in OOB. But when the crowds of tourists were piling into places closer to the beach, GFB offered an alternative with its own live music, karaoke and more.