Augusta serves as the capital city of Maine and ranks among the smallest state capitals in the U.S. by population, with an estimated 19,200 residents as of 2024. Though modest in size, it boasts a rich historical heritage, including several key landmarks that highlight its role in state governance and early American history.
The Maine State House, located on State Street (phone: +1 207
287-2301), is the seat of Maine's government and a striking example of
early 19th-century architecture. Constructed from local granite and
completed in 1832—just a year after Augusta was designated the
capital—it was modeled after the Massachusetts State House and designed
by architect Charles Bulfinch. The building features a distinctive
copper dome (added later and topped with a statue of Minerva, the
goddess of wisdom) and houses the legislature, governor's offices, and
historical portraits. The west entrance welcomes the public Monday
through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM, with free guided tours available
hourly from 9 AM to noon (reservations recommended for groups via the
Maine State Museum). Self-guided visits are also an option, allowing
exploration of the Hall of Flags and other public areas at no cost.
Adjacent to the State House, across a shared parking lot at 83 State
House Station (phone: +1 207 287-2301), the Maine State Museum delves
into the state's unique story through immersive displays. Normally open
Tuesday to Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM and Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM
(closed Sundays, Mondays, and state holidays), it is currently
undergoing renovations as of late 2025, with a reopening expected in
2026—check the website for updates. When accessible, exhibits cover
Maine's natural history, prehistoric archaeology, indigenous cultures,
agricultural and industrial evolution, and everyday life of its people.
Highlights include lifelike dioramas of local wildlife, gems and
minerals, a reconstructed three-story water-powered woodworking mill
from the 19th century, and artifacts from the Clovis culture. Admission
is affordable at $2 for adults, $1 for children aged 6-18 and seniors
62+, and free for those under 6. The museum also offers virtual programs
and online collections during closure.
Old Fort Western, at 16
Cony Street (phone: +1 207 626-2385), stands as North America's oldest
surviving wooden fort, erected in 1754 during the French and Indian War
as a British colonial outpost on the Kennebec River. Designated a
National Historic Landmark in 1976, it features the original main house
(a two-story garrison building) alongside a reconstructed stockade,
blockhouses, and watch boxes. The site played a pivotal role in regional
defense and trade, and includes a 1912 marker commemorating Benedict
Arnold's 1775 expedition to Quebec, which launched from here during the
Revolutionary War. Costumed interpreters provide guided tours focusing
on 18th- and 19th-century daily life, military history, and archaeology
(over 17,000 artifacts have been unearthed on-site). Open mid-May
through June and September to early October Friday to Monday from 10 AM
to 4 PM, and daily in July and August during the same hours. Admission
costs $10 for adults, $8 for seniors (65+), veterans, and concessions,
$6 for children (6-14), $25 for families, and free for kids under 6,
active military, and Augusta residents.
The Lithgow Public
Library, situated at 45 Winthrop Street (phone: +1 207 626-2415), is a
beloved community hub blending historic elegance with modern resources.
Built in 1896 with funds from local merchant Llewellyn Lithgow's
bequest, a Carnegie grant, and community subscriptions, it features
Romanesque Revival architecture, intricate stained-glass windows
depicting printers' marks and Augusta scenes, and a grand reading room
with frescoes and gold leaf details. Listed on the National Register of
Historic Places since 1974, it expanded in 2016 to include updated
spaces while preserving its original charm. Open approximately 55 hours
weekly (typically Monday to Friday 9 AM to 8 PM, Saturday 9 AM to 4
PM—confirm current hours), it offers extensive collections (over 58,000
volumes), interlibrary loans via MINERVA and MaineCat systems, digital
resources, programs for all ages, and free Wi-Fi. Library cards are free
for Augusta residents, with non-resident fees applying (waived for city
employees, teachers, and students in local schools).
Finally, the
Blaine House at 192 State Street (email: info@blainehouse.org) has been
the official residence of Maine's governors since 1919. This
Federal-style mansion, built in 1833 by retired ship captain James Hall
and later remodeled in semi-colonial design, was gifted to the state by
Harriet Blaine Beale in memory of her son, a World War I casualty. Named
for its former owner James G. Blaine—a prominent 19th-century politician
who served as U.S. Speaker of the House, Senator, Secretary of State,
and 1884 presidential candidate—it features 28 rooms with period
furnishings, Blaine family artifacts, and landscaped gardens. Designated
a National Historic Landmark in 1964, it hosts public events and offers
free guided tours of the first floor by appointment (book through the
Maine State Museum; recommended for ages 8+). While primarily a private
home, it symbolizes Maine's political legacy and is open for limited
public access.
Viles Arboretum (153 Hospital St., ☏ +1 207 626-7989): This sprawling
224-acre botanical garden in Augusta, Maine, serves as a peaceful haven
for nature enthusiasts, featuring over five miles of clearly marked
trails that meander through diverse habitats like forests, meadows, and
wetlands.
It boasts an impressive array of plant collections,
educational programs, seasonal events, and the largest outdoor sculpture
exhibit in the state, making it ideal for hiking, birdwatching, or
simply relaxing amid natural beauty. The grounds are open every day from
dawn until dusk, with staff available in the office Monday through
Friday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Best of all, entry is completely free,
encouraging repeat visits throughout the year.
The Colonial
Theater (139 Water St.): A cherished landmark on the National Register
of Historic Places, this iconic movie house originally opened in 1913
and was rebuilt in 1926 following a devastating fire.
Once a hub for
vaudeville performances, silent films, and community gatherings in the
Kennebec Valley until its closure in 1969, the theater sat dormant for
decades before recent restoration efforts brought it back to life.
Today, it vibrantly hosts a range of shows, events, and screenings,
including classic film series like Indiana Jones marathons, preserving
its role as a cultural beacon in downtown Augusta.
Augusta's historic Water Street buzzes with an eclectic mix of
restaurants and bars, providing everything from casual bites to upscale
dining experiences in a charming, walkable downtown setting. Popular
spots include State Lunch, an award-winning gastropub known for globally
inspired cocktails and small plates; The Oak Table & Bar, offering
refined seasonal menus with local ingredients; and Otto's on the River,
specializing in creative pub fare with scenic views. Whether you're
craving craft beers, fine wines, or innovative cuisine, this vibrant
strip has options for every palate and occasion.
Riverfront
Barbeque & Grill (300 Water St., ☏ +1 207 622-8899): Since opening in
2007, this locally owned family restaurant has been a go-to for
authentic southern-style barbecue, dishing out tender ribs, smoky
brisket, pulled pork, and grilled chicken that locals and visitors rave
about.
The menu extends beyond BBQ to include fresh seafood specials,
hearty pasta dishes, vegetarian options like veggie risotto, appetizers
such as jerk chicken sandwiches and buffalo wings, and a dedicated kids'
section for family-friendly dining. With its consistent quality and
welcoming vibe, it's perfect for a satisfying meal after exploring the
area.
Lisa's Restaurant and Lounge (15 Bangor St., ☏ +1 207
621-0599): Conveniently located near downtown, this cozy spot delivers
comforting American classics infused with Mexican flair, featuring
standout items like juicy prime rib, flavorful rib eyes, chicken cordon
bleu served with rice pilaf, and creamy Tuscany tortellini.
Open
daily from 6 AM to 9 PM, it caters to all meals with breakfast favorites
such as eggs Florentine, fruit-topped pancakes, and hearty sandwiches,
plus an inviting lounge for great drinks and casual gatherings. Known
for its friendly service and diverse menu using high-quality
ingredients, it's an excellent choice for good food and relaxed vibes
any time of day.
Here is a rephrased and expanded list of hotel options in the Augusta
area, focusing on places to stay. I've incorporated additional details
such as amenities, guest features, and highlights drawn from reliable
sources to provide more context. Note that the original text appears to
reference a "Drink" section but lacks content, so I've focused solely on
the "Sleep" accommodations. All contact information has been retained
for convenience.
Maine Evergreen Hotel (Quality Inn & Suites)
Located at 65 Whitten Road, this award-winning boutique-style hotel
offers a unique Maine-themed experience with 69 non-smoking rooms and
suites. Guests can enjoy complimentary hot breakfast, free high-speed
WiFi, a seasonal outdoor heated pool, a 24-hour fitness center, and an
on-site lounge called Hearthside Vine & Tap Bar. Additional perks
include a business center, free coffee/tea service around the clock, and
proximity to attractions like the Maine State Museum and Augusta Civic
Center. Some rooms feature upgraded amenities such as balconies,
microwaves, refrigerators, and spa baths. It's pet-friendly in select
areas and has received high ratings for cleanliness and staff service
(average 4.7/5 from over 2,000 reviews).Phone: +1 207 622-3776 | Fax: +1
207 622-3778.
Senator Inn and Spa
Situated at 284 Western
Avenue near Turnpike 95 (I-95 Exit 109A), this full-service hotel boasts
125 luxury rooms and suites, some equipped with fireplaces and Jacuzzi
tubs. Key amenities include an on-site spa offering treatments, yoga
classes, a hair salon, indoor and outdoor pools, a hot tub, sauna, steam
room, fitness center, and the Cloud 9 restaurant serving breakfast and
kids' meals. There's also a lounge, banquet facilities for events, and a
24-hour business center. It's conveniently close to the Maine State
Capitol, Augusta Civic Center, and local attractions like Old Fort
Western. Guests often praise the welcoming staff and variety of room
options, though some note the property shows signs of age in places.
It's pet-friendly and ideal for both leisure and business stays.Phone:
+1 207 622-5804 | Toll-free: +1-877-772-2224 | Fax: +1 207 622-8803.
Best Western Plus Augusta Civic Center Inn
Found at 110 Community
Drive, adjacent to the Augusta Civic Center, this modern hotel provides
99 comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, free WiFi, refrigerators,
microwaves, work desks, and flat-screen TVs. Amenities feature a free
continental breakfast daily, an on-site gym, dry cleaning/laundry
services, and free parking. It's conveniently located near shopping at
The Marketplace and just a short drive from the Maine State Capitol and
Augusta State Airport. Guests appreciate the clean, quiet rooms with
white bedding and charging stations, making it a great choice for events
or business travel.Phone: +1 207 622-4751.
Days Inn by Wyndham
Augusta
Positioned at 18 Edison Drive off I-95, this budget-friendly
motel offers non-smoking rooms with free WiFi, flat-screen HDTVs,
coffee/tea makers, desks, and ironing amenities. Highlights include a
free light breakfast (with coffee, tea, and juice), a fitness room,
garden, laundry facilities, and free parking for cars, trucks, and RVs.
Pet-friendly options are available for an extra fee. It's near downtown
Augusta, the Maine State Museum, and Capitol Park, with guests noting
the clean rooms, comfortable beds, and friendly 24-hour front desk
staff.Phone: +1 207 579-1839 | Fax: +1 207 622-1048.
Comfort Inn
Civic Center
At 281 Civic Center Drive, close to I-95 and the Augusta
Civic Center, this pet-friendly hotel features rooms with free WiFi,
air-conditioning, refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, hair dryers,
irons, and flat-screen TVs. Amenities include a free hot breakfast,
indoor pool, hot tub, fitness center, 24-hour business center, free
local calls, newspapers, coffee, and parking. It's near the University
of Maine at Augusta, Maine State Museum, and Augusta State Airport, with
guests highlighting the clean accommodations, friendly service, and
convenient location for events or sightseeing.Phone: +1 207 623-1000.
The area of today's city was explored by European settlers since
1607. They were based in the short-lived settlement of Sagadahoc, also
known as Popham Colony. The first settlers in the area came from the
Plymouth Colony. They established a trading post on the Kennebec River
around 1628 to trade agricultural products for furs with the local
Indians. The trading post was abandoned between 1669 and 1676.
In
addition to the English, there were also French influences in the 17th
and 18th centuries. Jesuit Father Gabriel Dreuillettes visited the area
in 1646 and set up a mission for the Kennebec Indians. It was at this
time that the term Cushnoc (Coussinoc or Kouissnoc) was coined for the
Plymouth Colony trading post.
Fort Western was built in 1754 in
Augusta, near the former trading post, to protect the first settlers
during the Seven Years' War in North America. During the American
Revolutionary War, Benedict Arnold and his troops passed through Fort
West on their way to Quebec. The fort was below the falls and also
served as a supply depot for Fort Halifax. After the end of the war,
Captain James Howard, the fort's former commander, remained on site as
the first permanent settler, using the fort's main building for
residence and business.
In 1771 the area was organized under the
name Hallowell and in 1797 the northern part of Hallowell was organized
as a separate town under the name Harrington. The name was changed to
Augusta on June 9, 1797.
Augusta became a shire town of Kennebec
County in 1799 and in 1827 Augusta was made the capital of Maine, which
had become the 23rd state to join the Union in 1820. The first session
of the Maine government was held in Augusta in 1832. Augusta was
organized as a city on August 20, 1849.
From 1890 to 1932 Augusta
had a tram service with the Augusta tram.
Four locations in
Augusta have National Historic Landmark status, including the James G.
Blaine House, which serves as the governor's residence, and the Kennebec
Arsenal. The city has 42 structures and sites listed on the National
Register of Historic Places (NRHP) as of November 5, 2018.
According to the United States Census Bureau, Augusta has a total
area of 150.9 km², of which 142.79 km² is land and 7.51 km² is water.
Geographical location
Augusta is located in central Kennebec
County on the Kennebec River, which flows north-south through the city
area. To the east of the area are several larger lakes such as Togus
Pond, Little Togus Pond, Threecornered Pond and others. The surface is
flat, with no elevations worth mentioning.
All distances are given as the crow flies between the official
coordinates of the 2010 census locations.
North: Sydney, 4.7 km
Northeast: Vassalboro, 10.1 km
East: Windsor, 18.0 km
Southeast:
Chelsea, 1.8 miles
Southwest: Hallowell, 9.5 km
West: Manchester,
9 miles
city outline
There are several settlement areas in
Augusta: Augusta, Bolton (former post office site), Coombs Mills
(Coombs' Mills), Hallowell Court House (former post office site),
Kennebec (former railway station) and North Augusta.
The mean average temperature in Augusta ranges from −6.1°C (21°F) in January to 20.6°C (69°F) in July. This means that the place is about 6 degrees cooler than the long-term mean of the USA. Snowfall between October and May is up to eight feet, more than twice the mean snow depth in the United States; the daily sunshine duration is at the lower end of the value spectrum for the USA.
The Augusta School
Department is responsible for school education in Augusta.
The
following schools are located in Augusta:
Lincoln School, with
classes from Kindergarten to 6th grade
Lillian P. Hussey Elementary
School, with classes from Kindergarten to 6th grade
Sylvio Gilbert
Elementary School, with classes from pre-kindergarten to 6th grade
Farrington Elementary School, with classes from Kindergarten to 6th
grade
Cony High School, with classes from 7th to 12th grade.
The
private, Catholic St. Michael School offers classes from
pre-kindergarten to 8th grade.
Augusta is home to the University
of Maine at Augusta.