Augusta MaineATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Augusta, Maine.
1. Fort Western
HISTORIC WOODEN GARRISON
Fort Western is home to the country's oldest wooden garrison building, built in 1754, and serves as a living history museum. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that showcase this important piece of American history. The fort offers engaging hands-on activities and unique educational experiences that bring colonial history to life.
2. Maine State Museum
STATE HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Maine State Museum features extensive exhibits on the state's commercial heritage, social history, and natural environment. It has earned a reputation as one of the country's best state museums with comprehensive displays on logging, boatbuilding, fishing, farming, wildlife, and Maine's Native Americans. Though temporarily closed as of 2020 for building repairs and upgrades, the museum remains a cultural cornerstone of Augusta.
3. State Capitol
GOVERNMENTAL HISTORIC BUILDING
The Maine State House is a gleaming white colonnaded building topped by a distinctive green copper dome. Visitors can tour this architectural gem and check the legislative schedule to observe the House or Senate in session. The building showcases beautiful Victorian design elements and serves as the center of Maine's government.
4. Viles Arboretum
BOTANICAL NATURE PRESERVE
Viles Arboretum features over 200 labeled species of trees, shrubs, and unique "Space Trees" across more than 200 acres east of the Kennebec River. The grounds and trails are open every day of the year from sunrise to sunset, offering seasonal activities from spring flower viewing to winter snowshoeing. Visitors can explore diverse collections including chestnuts, sycamores, lilacs, hostas, and an extensive conifer collection.
5. First Amendment Museum
CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS EDUCATION
The First Amendment Museum is situated in the historic Guy P. Gannett house, just steps from the State Capitol. Its mission is to inspire all Americans to live and love their First Amendment freedoms through engaging exhibits and educational programming. The museum provides visitors with a deeper understanding of constitutional rights and their importance in American society.
6. Capitol Park
GOVERNMENT DISTRICT GREENSPACE
Capitol Park offers wide grassy lawns and shaded trails next to the State House, perfect for picnics and relaxation. Visitors can stroll through the park to view several monuments, including a Vietnam Memorial. The park serves as a peaceful green space in the heart of Augusta's government district.
7. Kennebec River Rail Trail
SCENIC RIVERSIDE PATH
The Kennebec River Rail Trail stretches about 6 miles from Augusta to Gardiner along the scenic riverfront. Visitors can walk, run, or bike along this well-maintained pathway that showcases the natural beauty of the Kennebec Valley. The trail offers a perfect outdoor recreation option for residents and tourists looking to enjoy Maine's landscape.
8. Old Fort Western
COLONIAL ERA LANDMARK
Old Fort Western is a national historic landmark built in 1754, located across the river from Capitol Park. As America's oldest surviving wooden garrison, the fort provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into colonial-era life through its preserved structures and artifacts. The site offers educational programs that highlight the strategic importance of this outpost in Maine's early development.
9. The Colonial Theater
HISTORIC ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
The Colonial Theater stands as a historic entertainment venue in downtown Augusta with distinctive architecture reflecting its cultural significance. This restored theater hosts various performances including films, live music, and theatrical productions throughout the year. The venue serves as an important cultural hub for the Augusta community while preserving a piece of the city's entertainment history.
10. Augusta Farmers Market
LOCAL FOOD SHOWCASE
Augusta Farmers Market brings together local farmers, food producers, and artisans to offer fresh produce and handcrafted goods to the community. Visitors can browse seasonal vegetables, fruits, baked goods, meats, and unique crafts while connecting directly with the people who make and grow these items. The market creates a vibrant community gathering space that celebrates Maine's agricultural heritage and supports the local economy.
11. Rare Bird Art
LOCAL ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
Rare Bird Art showcases unique artistic creations from local and regional artists in Augusta. The gallery features a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, jewelry, and other handcrafted items that reflect Maine's creative spirit. Visitors can discover distinctive works while supporting the thriving arts community in the Kennebec Valley region.
12. Hatchet House
AXE THROWING ENTERTAINMENT
Hatchet House offers an exciting axe-throwing experience for visitors looking for unique entertainment in Augusta. Guests can test their skill and precision in a safe, supervised environment while enjoying this increasingly popular recreational activity. The venue provides a distinctive social outing option that combines friendly competition with the satisfaction of mastering a challenging skill.
13. Mill Park
RIVERSIDE RECREATION AREA
Mill Park provides beautiful riverfront access and recreational facilities along the Kennebec River in Augusta. The park offers open green spaces, walking paths, and areas for community events and gatherings throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the river while participating in various outdoor activities in this urban natural setting.
14. Children's Discovery Museum
INTERACTIVE LEARNING CENTER
The Children's Discovery Museum features a variety of interactive centers where young children can play while developing important life skills. Each exhibit area is designed to stimulate creativity, curiosity, and learning through hands-on activities tailored to different developmental stages. Families can spend hours exploring the engaging spaces that make education fun and accessible for Augusta's youngest visitors.
15. Lost Valley
WINTER SPORTS DESTINATION
Lost Valley is a popular winter destination located within an hour's drive from Augusta, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities for all skill levels. The resort features well-maintained slopes, equipment rentals, and lessons for beginners looking to try winter sports for the first time. During the warmer months, Lost Valley transforms to offer hiking, mountain biking, and other outdoor recreational activities that showcase Maine's natural beauty year-round.