Augusta

Augusta is the capital of Maine, but at approximately 19,000 residents (2020), it is one of the least populous state capitals in the United States. Situated on the Kennebec River in the Kennebec and Moose River Valleys region, Augusta blends government function with historic charm and outdoor recreation. The city's crown jewel is Old Fort Western, the oldest surviving wooden fort in New England, built in 1754, which played a role in Benedict Arnold's expedition to capture Quebec during the American Revolution.

Augusta experiences four distinct seasons typical of inland Maine. Summers are warm and pleasant with temperatures in the 70s-80s°F, ideal for exploring the Kennebec River Rail Trail and Viles Arboretum. Winters are cold with regular snowfall. Fall foliage peaks in late September to early October, and spring brings the Kennebec River back to life after winter freeze-up.

The city serves as a convenient base for exploring central Maine, with easy access to I-95 connecting Portland (60 miles south, about 1 hour), Bangor (80 miles north, about 1.5 hours), and the Maine coast to the east. The historic Water Street district along the Kennebec River offers restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions within walking distance of the State Capitol.

By Plane

Augusta State Airport (AUG), 75 Airport Rd, +1 207-626-2306, is a small regional airport with Cape Air flights to Boston's Logan International Airport. Maine Instrument Flight (+1-888-643-3597) offers air charter and private aircraft services.

By Car / Road

From Portland: Take I-295 North to I-95 North; exit at Augusta/Western Ave. The trip is under 60 miles, about one hour in reasonable traffic. From Bangor: Take I-95 South to Augusta/Western Ave. The trip is about 80 miles, a bit under 1.5 hours. From Belfast: Take Maine State Route 3 South (really west/southwest); the trip is about 47 miles, about one hour. Concord Coach Lines and Greyhound both provide bus service from Boston, Portland, and Bangor.

• State Capitol Building — State St, +1 207-287-2301. The west entrance is open to the public Monday-Friday, 8AM-5PM. Free guided tours are offered Monday-Friday 9AM-1PM. Admission is free.

• Maine State Museum — 83 Maine 27, across from the State Capitol Building, +1 207-287-2301. Tuesday-Friday 9AM-5PM, Saturday 10AM-4PM, closed Sundays, Mondays, and state holidays. Exhibits on Maine's natural history, archaeology, agriculture, and industrial heritage. $2 admission, $1 for children 6-18 and seniors 62+, free for children under 6.

• Old Fort Western — 16 Cony St, +1 207-626-2385. The oldest surviving wooden fort in North America, built in 1754, with the original main house intact. National Historic Landmark. July-August: daily 10AM-4PM; September-October: Friday-Monday 10AM-4PM. $10 adults, $8 concessions, $6 children, $25 family.

• Blaine House — 192 State St. Official residence of Maine's governors since 1919. Tours of the first floor offered by appointment.

• Lithgow Public Library — 45 Winthrop St, +1 207-626-2415. A historic public library worth visiting.

• Viles Arboretum — 153 Hospital St, +1 207-626-7989. Open daily dawn to dusk; office staffed Monday-Friday 8AM-4:30PM. Free admission. Features 200+ acres of gardens, trails, and natural areas.

• The Colonial Theater — 139 Water St. A historic movie theater listed on the National Register of Historic Places, dating to 1926. Now hosts shows and events after extensive restoration.

• Kennebec River Rail Trail — A paved multi-use trail along the Kennebec River, ideal for walking, cycling, and inline skating.

• Fishing and Boating — The Kennebec River offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing.

• Riverfront Barbeque & Grill — 300 Water St, +1 207-622-8899. Located along the historic Water Street district with barbecue and American fare.
• Lisa's Restaurant and Lounge — 15 Bangor St, +1 207-621-0599. American food with Mexican items, including prime rib and rib eyes, plus a full bar.

• Budget — Quality Inn, 65 Whitten Rd, +1 207-622-3776. Days Inn by Wyndham Augusta, 18 Edison Dr, +1 207-579-1839.
• Mid-range — Best Western Plus Civic Center Inn, 110 Community Dr, +1 207-622-4751. Comfort Inn Civic Center, 281 Civic Center Dr, +1 207-623-1000.
• Upscale / heritage — Senator Inn and Spa, 284 Western Avenue @ Turnpike 95, +1 207-622-5804, toll-free: +1-877-772-2224.

• Portland (60 mi south, 1 hr) — Maine's largest city with museums, restaurants, and the Old Port district.
• Bangor (80 mi north, 1.5 hrs) — Cultural hub and gateway to Acadia National Park.
• Lewiston-Auburn (30 mi west, 30 min) — Twin Cities with shopping, dining, and the Franco Center.
• Camden (65 mi east, 1 hr) — Upscale coastal village where mountains meet the sea.
• Bath (30 mi south, 30 min) — Maritime city home to the Maine Maritime Museum and Bath Iron Works.