Augusta is Maine’s capital city, sitting at the head of the Kennebec River in the heart of the state. Despite being the state capital, Augusta has the feel of a small New England city — unhurried, genuine, and full of history. The Maine State House, with its distinctive copper dome, anchors a handsome downtown that also includes the Maine State Museum, one of the finest natural history and cultural museums in New England. The Kennebec River runs right through the city, offering kayaking, fishing, and scenic walks along its banks.
Things to Do in Augusta
The Maine State Museum is a must-visit — four floors of exhibits covering Maine’s natural environment, prehistory, and cultural history, all free to enter. The Blaine House, official residence of the governor, offers public tours, and the Maine State House itself welcomes visitors. The Kennebec River Rail Trail stretches for miles along the riverbank, ideal for walking and cycling. Nearby, the Belgrade Lakes offer world-class bass and landlocked salmon fishing just 20 minutes north of the city.
Where to Stay in Augusta
Augusta has a solid range of lodging options from national chain hotels near the interstate to locally owned inns closer to downtown. The city is also a practical overnight base for travelers exploring inland Maine — centrally located between Portland to the south, Bangor to the north, and the western mountains to the west.
Dining in Augusta
Augusta’s dining scene punches above its size, with options ranging from classic Maine diner breakfasts to contemporary farm-to-table restaurants showcasing local ingredients. The Water Street corridor downtown has seen a resurgence of independent restaurants and cafes in recent years, making it a pleasant place to linger over a meal.
Getting to Augusta, Maine
Augusta sits at the junction of I-95 and Route 3 in central Maine, approximately 60 miles north of Portland and 80 miles south of Bangor. It’s the most centrally located city in the state — within two hours of Acadia National Park, the western mountains, and the midcoast. Augusta State Airport offers limited regional service. Most visitors arrive by car via I-95 exit 109.
Day Trips from Augusta
Augusta’s central location makes it an excellent base for exploring Maine. The Moosehead Lake region is about 90 minutes north via Route 201 through Skowhegan and Bingham — one of Maine’s most scenic drives. Camden and the midcoast are 45 minutes east on Route 17. Rangeley Lakes are about 90 minutes northwest. The Belgrade Lakes chain — one of Maine’s premier bass fishing destinations — begins just 15 minutes north of the city on Route 27.
Augusta, Maine — Frequently Asked Questions
What is Augusta Maine known for?
Augusta is Maine’s state capital and home to the Maine State House, Maine State Museum, and Blaine House. It sits on the Kennebec River in the heart of the state and serves as the seat of Maine’s government. Despite being the capital, it has the character of a small New England city rather than a major urban center.
What are the best things to do in Augusta Maine?
The top things to do in Augusta include visiting the Maine State Museum (free admission), touring the Maine State House and Blaine House, walking or cycling the Kennebec River Rail Trail, fishing the Belgrade Lakes, and exploring the historic Water Street corridor downtown. Augusta is also a convenient base for day trips to the midcoast, western mountains, and North Woods.
How far is Augusta Maine from Portland?
Augusta is approximately 60 miles north of Portland — about a one-hour drive via I-95 north to exit 109. It’s also about 80 miles south of Bangor and 45 miles west of Camden on the midcoast.