authentic must-visit destinations
The cities of Maine’s Kennebec Valley grew up along the Kennebec River.
Each city’s location on the river allowed for growth through trade and industry. Today, these towns are vibrant places filled with restaurants, shops, theaters, galleries, museums, and events. Explore our downtowns and Main Streets as part of a complete visit to the region.
Augusta: Maine's Capital City
Augusta is one of the loveliest yet under-explored cities in Maine. Set on the riverbank, just a short walk from the capitol building, the downtown area along Water Street has hit its stride. Discover places to eat and drink, such as Oak Table & Bar, State Lunch, and the top-rated Cushnoc Brewing Company. Take some Middle Eastern foods to go at Al naeem Market. Or grab something sweet from The Chocolate Shoppe at Merkaba Sol—they also have crystals, incense, and tarot cards. The weekly Farmers’ Market in Mill Park is one of the best around.
The city also has some of the region’s best-maintained and easily accessible trails. Bond Brook Recreation Area is one of Augusta’s must-visit spots with its world-class trail sports venue. The Viles Arboretum offers a refreshing selection of walking trails on 225 acres, with outdoor stone sculptures scattered throughout. The grounds are also one of Maine’s top in-town birding locales, with more than 39 documented species.
There is no getting around in Augusta without spotting the copper dome of the Capitol Building. The Capitol Complex is also home to the Maine State Museum, which is undergoing a significant renovation and is expected to reopen next year.
Spend a little time in Capitol Park, located directly across from the complex and running down to the river. The park’s design is based on a 1920 plan by Frederick Law Olmsted’s firm and is home to the Maine Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
A short walk from the State House, the Blaine House is the home to Maine’s governors and their families. The house dates back to 1833 and was donated to the State of Maine in 1919. Public guided tours are free but must be scheduled in advance.
In 1754, a blockhouse was erected to provide for the regional protection of the then-wilderness area known as Augusta. In 1774, it was the starting point of the ill-fated expedition to Quebec led by Benedict Arnold. That historic landmark, Old Fort Western, still stands on the eastern bank of the Kennebec River at Cushnoc, offering exhibits and reenactments.
Gardiner
A short visit to Gardiner can become a full day spent along downtown’s historic Water Street. Wander through shops where you can get everything from fine art to fishing flies. Visit Table Bar, a neighborhood wine bar, restaurant, and bottle shop. Or enjoy a Maine Adventure at the nearby Renys.
Johnson Hall now boasts year-round performances following the complete restoration of the magnificent theater housed within. During the summer, Johnson Hall holds the weekly Waterfront Concert Series.
Many family-friendly events grace its downtown streets and waterfront park throughout the year. Take the self-guided walking tour past picturesque historic homes and library.
HAllowell
An eclectic variety of restaurants and shops grace Water Street in Hallowell’s downtown area. Set on a wide, slow moving stretch of the Kennebec River, this is Maine’s tiniest city. With an abundance of Federalist and Victorian structures, the town is a National Historic District.
Stroll through downtown to take your pick from a collection of artists’ galleries and antique and vintage shops where you can find something you “have to have.” Grab an ice cream cone, then take a seat in one of the rainbow-colored Adirondack chairs in Granite City Park.
Hallowell is an ideal destination for a great meal and brews. The Liberal Cup serves its own English-style ales with dishes like Bangers and Smash and Shepherd’s Pie. The Quarry Tap Room offers beer from across Maine on tap, a seasonal selection of cocktails, and a broad menu from salads to a classic Maine Lobster Roll. Bistro Milliard is a boutique eatery that emphasizes old-world French and Italian recipes. Craving Asian Fusion head to Bao & Beyond at The Maine House.
Waterville
Waterville is a top Maine destination for arts and culture. Visitors will find shopping, a downtown humming with events, dining, and nightlife. Plus, the city’s proximity to outdoor recreational areas and its wide variety of lodging make it an ideal place to stay.
Each summer, the Maine International Film Festival brings the best of American independent and international cinema to the area. Sculpture and murals adorn the city’s open spaces, creating a feast for the eyes alongside galleries filled with avant-garde showings.
Waterville does a top-notch job at keeping visitors’ bellies full, and thirsts quenched with dozens of restaurants offering classic flavors to trendy cuisine, all sure to delight.
Skowhegan
In Skowhegan, there is always a cool local event worth checking out. In March, Maine Maple Weekend heralds the end of winter at the area’s many sugar houses. July brings the Kneading Conference and Artisan Bread Fair. In early August, the Skowhegan State Fair will open its gates. Later, raise your glass at the Skowhegan Craft Brew Fest. Even in February, fun beckons all at Somerset SnowFest, featuring the unique sport of skijoring.
The state’s best whitewater rafting is up the road a piece, and excellent trout fishing lurks just below the Skowhegan Gorge. Hiking, trail running, biking, ATV riding, and snowmobiling are found in any direction.
Part of Maine’s original foodie scene, Skowhegan is now home to a local farm-to-table movement in part due to the success of Maine Grains and the Skowhegan Farmers’ Market. Recognized for a very walkable downtown, Water Street is home to small cafés, shops, and businesses housed in historic buildings.
