Attractions Nearby Augusta, Day Trips and Excursions

(Augusta, Maine - ME, USA)

If you have hired a car and would like to get out an explore some more of Maine, then you will be pleased to hear that there are many appealing attractions located within comfortable driving distance of Augusta. However, do bear in mind that the harsh winter weather in this part of Maine can make many of these inaccessible at this time of the year.

Often lending themselves to day trips or short afternoon excursions, these attractions frequently follow the path of the Kennebec River and are based around neighboring towns. If you head along State Street (US-27) in a southerly direction, the small town of Hallowell is a popular draw with tourists who come here to admire its historical architecture.

Day trippers from Augusta paying a visit to nearby Hallowell can expect to find various cultural attractions, such as performing arts theaters and galleries, as well as numerous taverns and eateries. Each Sunday, the riverside Farmers' Market is another good reason to come here.

General Information

Further south of Augusta and still located alongside the Kennebec River is the town of Farmingdale and its larger neighbor, Gardiner. The attractions of Gardiner come in the form of a historic district, a heritage museum and the Johnson Hall Performing Arts Center. Also of interest here are a handful of National Historic Landmarks, such as both the Edwin Arlington Robinson House and the Laura Richards House.

Lying roughly 30 minutes to the north of Augusta is Waterville, which is situated on the western bank of the Kennebec River. Many attractions await tourists planning a day trip to Waterville, with the annual Maine International Film Festival each July being worth looking out for. Others come to visit the Perkins Arboretum or to take in a show at the Waterville Opera House.

At around 40 minutes to the southwest of Augusta, the Thorncrag Bird Sanctuary is the perfect attraction for wildlife lovers, with its plentiful nature trails and spots for birdwatching. A number of benches are conveniently located next to the ponds and streams, meaning that you can take time out to watch the wildlife unfold around you while you enjoy an impromptu picnic. From the highest points, there are even views of Mount Washington to look out for.

Also known for being a particularly scenic setting, the Belgrade Lakes region of Central Maine is just 30 minutes north of Augusta and boasts countless recreational activities and seasonal events. This chain of seven sizeable lakes also incorporates woodlands, tiny villages and many tranquil spots, where you can escape for the day into the wild.