Auburn

Auburn is the western half of the "Twin Cities" of Lewiston-Auburn in Androscoggin County, central Maine. The Androscoggin River divides the two municipalities, with Lewiston on the east bank (population ~39,000) and Auburn on the west bank (population ~23,000). Together they form a regional hub for shopping, dining, and cultural activities. Auburn's historic downtown features tree-lined streets and a mix of historic and modern architecture, while the surrounding area offers outdoor recreation including skiing at Lost Valley and river activities on the Androscoggin.

The Twin Cities experience four distinct seasons. Summers are warm with temperatures in the 70s-80s°F, while winters bring cold and snow ideal for skiing. Fall foliage peaks in September-October, and spring brings thawing rivers and blooming gardens. The region has a strong Franco-American heritage, reflecting the French-Canadian immigrants who settled here to work in the textile mills during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Auburn serves as a convenient base for exploring central Maine, with easy access to I-95 and proximity to Portland (about 35 miles south), Augusta (about 30 miles north), and the Lakes and Mountains region to the west. The cities share public transit, dining, and cultural amenities, making them easy to explore together.

By Plane

Portland International Jetport (PWM) is the nearest major airport, about 35 miles south. Auburn-Lewiston Municipal Airport (LEW) at 80 Airport Dr serves smaller private and charter aircraft. Shuttle companies including Maine Limousine Service (+1 207-883-0222, toll-free: +1 800-646-0068) connect the airports to the Twin Cities.

By Car / Road

I-95 (Maine Turnpike) provides access via Exits 75-80. From Portland, take I-95 north approximately 35 miles (45 minutes). From Augusta, take I-95 south approximately 30 miles (30 minutes). The cities are connected by bridges across the Androscoggin River. Greyhound bus service is available at 111 Bates St, Lewiston (+1 207-782-0311).

Purple Bus (Citylink) operates 9 routes connecting Lewiston, Auburn, and Lisbon, running Monday-Saturday. The downtown shuttle is free and runs through both downtowns. Regular fares are $1.50. The twin cities are compact and many attractions are within walking distance of each other across the river bridges.

• Androscoggin Historical Society & Museum — Local history museum showcasing the heritage of the Androscoggin Valley region.

• Bates College — 23 Campus Ave, +1 207-786-6000. The Museum of Art and Olin Arts Center offer cultural diversions on this picturesque campus.

• Museum L-A — 35 Canal St, +1 207-517-9424. Located in a historic mill building, exploring the industrial heritage of the Twin Cities.

• Switzerland Road — A hidden gem in Lewiston, this dead-end road parallels the Androscoggin River, passing St. Peter's Cemetery with its historic Quebecois names and ending at a hydroelectric power plant.

• Lost Valley — 200 Lost Valley Rd, +1 207-784-1561. A ski resort offering winter skiing and snowboarding, plus summer activities.

• Franco Center — 46 Cedar St, +1 207-783-1585. Performing arts venue and museum housed in the historic St. Mary's church.

• Great Falls Balloon Festival — Held annually at Simard-Payne Memorial Park and Festival Park, typically the third weekend in August. One of the area's largest tourist draws featuring hot air balloons.

• Androscoggin Bank Colisée — A multi-purpose sports arena hosting hockey, concerts, and events.

• Fish Bones — 70 Lincoln St, Lewiston, +1 207-333-3663. Seafood restaurant known for fresh coastal Maine fare.
• Governor's Restaurant & Bakery — 1185 Lisbon St, Lewiston, +1 207-753-0173. Family-friendly diner famous for its homemade pies.
• Mother India — 114 Lisbon St, Lewiston, +1 207-333-6777. Indian cuisine in a casual setting.
• Davinci's Eatery — 150 Mill St, Lewiston, +1 207-782-2088. Italian cuisine in the old Bates Mill, known for lasagna and brick-oven specialties.
• The Munroe Inn — 123 Pleasant St, Auburn, +1 207-782-4984. Fine dining in a bed and breakfast setting.
• Margaritas Mexican Restaurant — 180 Center St, Auburn, +1 207-782-6036. Mexican food with a lounge open until 1AM on weekends.

• Gritty McDuff's — 68 Main St, Auburn, +1 207-376-2739. Open daily 11AM-midnight. A Maine brewpub overlooking the Androscoggin River with craft beers, food, and live entertainment.

• Budget — Maine Motel & Cabins, 1101 Maine St, Lewiston, +1 207-784-7925. Motel rooms and cozy cabins; great for Moxie Festival visitors.
• Mid-range — SureStay by Best Western Lewiston, 516 Pleasant St, Lewiston, +1 207-705-2040. Super 8 Motel Lewiston/Auburn, 1440 Lisbon St, Lewiston, +1 207-784-8882.
• Upscale / heritage — Hilton Garden Inn Auburn Riverwatch, 14 Great Falls Plaza, +1 207-784-4433. Ramada Conference Center Lewiston/Auburn, 490 Pleasant St, Lewiston, +1 207-784-2331.

• Auburn Mall — The region's main shopping center with a variety of retail stores and restaurants.

• Portland (35 mi south, 45 min) — Maine's largest city with a thriving food and arts scene.
• Augusta (30 mi north, 30 min) — Maine's state capital with historic sites and the Kennebec River.
• Brunswick (30 mi southeast, 35 min) — Home to Bowdoin College and a burgeoning food scene.
• Rangeley (90 mi northwest, 2 hrs) — Lakes and mountains region for outdoor recreation.
• Camden (75 mi east, 1.5 hrs) — Upscale coastal village where mountains meet the sea.