Though originally a mill town, since the early 20th century Bridgton has become a vacation and resort destination. Tourists were first brought to Bridgton via railroad and steamboat only to be later superseded by the Theodore Roosevelt International Highway, or U.S. route 302.

As of 2012 tourists still enjoy the many outdoor activities and shopping options offered in Bridgton.

The Tichnor Brothers printing company published this type of postcard circa 1938 as part of their Maine series. These, and other postcards, by the Tichnor Brothers Company are officially known as the Tichnor Gloss Series because the photographs were notoriously retouched on such a level that does not allow the postcards to be classified as photographs or paintings. The caption reads, "Highland Lake, Bridgton, Maine."