What to do and see in Augusta, Maine (ME): The Best Things to do Good for Kids

June 25, 2021 Tonie Szymanski

Originally an English trading post on the Kennebec River, Augusta has since grown to be the capital of Maine, and is focused on preserving and celebrating the state’s history. Visit the magnificent Maine State House or Old Fort Western, the oldest surviving wooden fort in the United States. The city is also the home of the Pine Tree State Arboretum, a 224-acre park and botanic garden, with six miles of hiking, biking and cross-country skiing trails, open for free, all year round.
Restaurants in Augusta

1. Maine State Museum

230 State St, Augusta, ME 04330-6845 +1 207-287-2301 [email protected] http://www.mainestatemuseum.org
Excellent
72%
Good
24%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
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Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 300 reviews

Maine State Museum

Beginning June 24, 2020, the Maine State Museum has closed to allow significant repairs and upgrades to the building's mechanical systems. This necessary closure was unanticipated at this time. The duration of the closure has yet to be fully determined. Because the scope of work to be completed is substantial and complex, the museum could be closed for up to two years. Please see the museum's website for additional details and updates.

Reviewed By airehead2 - Oakland, United States

This museum must rank highly on your "bucket list". If your are a native and you have not taken the time to visit this facility then you can not refer to yourself as an authentic Mainiac. Maybe a little over-stated but this museum is very much worth your time. Take your family out on a Saturday when the weather out of doors is inclement.or cold and enjoy an educational experience learning a little about the wonderful state of your residence. The displays have been around for decades and I/we have visited only twice in my seventy-one years and it never seems to get old. A simply wonderful place to spend an afternoon with your young children or grand-children and give them an experience they will never forget and always be reminded of you years later when they reflect on the day of.their visit. Don't forget,you may even learn something too! DIRIGO

2. Fort Western

16 Cony St, Augusta, ME 04330-5200 +1 207-626-2385 [email protected] http://www.augustamaine.gov/old_fort_western/index.php
Excellent
48%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
17%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 102 reviews

Fort Western

Home of the country's oldest wooden garrison building, built in 1754, Old Fort Western is a living history museum offering tours to groups and individuals, engaging hands-on activities and unique interactive experiences involving the history of the Kennebec Valley and New England during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

Reviewed By mccormid7 - Plainfield, United States

Roger, our guide, is a master storyteller who takes you on a journey from the pre-revolutionary period forward to the industrialization of Augusta, ME. He is a true historian, deep in the knowledge of everyday life for soldiers and civilians. His background includes manufacturing methods from wagon wheels & flatboats to weapons, clothes, and furniture is amazing. Having visited many old forts in the region, I have to say that this one is something special.

3. Capitol Park

Augusta, ME
Excellent
50%
Good
31%
Satisfactory
15%
Poor
4%
Terrible
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Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 26 reviews

Capitol Park

A botanical garden and 20 acres of land in front of the State House.

Reviewed By Explore36409286908

Great place for a walk in the park! Lots of open space, trees, green grass and views of the State House, and Vietnam Memorial. Plenty of parking!

4. Viles Arboretum

153 Hospital St, Augusta, ME 04330-0700 +1 207-626-7989 [email protected] http://vilesarboretum.org
Excellent
49%
Good
36%
Satisfactory
11%
Poor
4%
Terrible
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Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 55 reviews

Viles Arboretum

Our grounds and trails are open every day of the year from Sunrise to Sunset. Please refer to our website for our Visitor Center Hours. Over 200 labeled species of trees, shrubs and "Space Trees" (from seed that traveled on the Space Shuttle) are on display at this 224-acre garden. There are six miles of trails, all marked and signed, and the largest outdoor sculpture display in Maine. Trail maps are available at the trailhead kiosk. A good introductory trail is the one to Viles Pond, which takes one through the hosta garden, past the rock garden, and to Viles Pond, often alive with birds, dragonflies, and frogs croaking. Depending on how long one lingers to enjoy the sights, this one mile trail takes about 45 minutes. Dogs are allowed on the trails, on a leash at all times. Pet owners must pick up after their dogs.

5. State Capitol

State Street, Augusta, ME 04330-6845 +1 207-287-2301 http://legislature.maine.gov/lio/security-screening/9120
Excellent
46%
Good
41%
Satisfactory
12%
Poor
1%
Terrible
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Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 114 reviews

State Capitol

Reviewed By skeelovr - Augusta, United States

Oh, if this place could talk, the stories it could tell! Impressive architecture, hallowed halls, historic art, beautiful grounds! Take a self-guided tour with the help of a pamphlet at the front service kiosk, or arrange for a free guided tour with a knowledgeable guide. Time well spent!

6. Augusta Civic Center

Augusta, ME http://www.augustaciviccenter.org/
Excellent
31%
Good
23%
Satisfactory
29%
Poor
14%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

3.5 based on 35 reviews

This venue features top performers and expositions.

7. Children's Discovery Museum

171 Capitol St Ste 2, Augusta, ME 04330-6232 +1 207-622-2209 [email protected] http://www.childrensdiscoverymuseum.org/
Excellent
31%
Good
24%
Satisfactory
19%
Poor
19%
Terrible
7%
Overall Ratings

3.5 based on 54 reviews

Children's Discovery Museum

A good rainy day attraction offering crafts and exhibits.

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