Augusta Weekends: Lobster shacks and harbor days
Curious about what you'll do when you live in Augusta? If you like the idea of kayaking down the Kennebec, getting artsy at local galleries, and are daring enough to try sampling farm-to-table fare, Augusta is calling you home! This list of fun things to do will take you from riverfront trails to historic landmarks and give you a solid taste of Augusta's small-city New England charm.
Greg, Our Local Expert Guiding Your Move
Greg moved to Maine before it was trendy, stayed when it got crowded, and 28 years later still loves it. He grew up here, went to UMaine, tried Connecticut, and survived eight years in Virginia before eventually packing up and moving back home. He is a former newspaper copy editor, pizza lover (Portland Pie, OTTO, & Cargo regular), and family man. At Snappy Scout, Greg helps newcomers decode Maine, a place that plays by its own rules and usually keeps them to itself.
Read moreWritten with local insight from Snappy Scout relocation experts
What Will You Do in Augusta?
From weekend adventures to iconic road trips, here's how locals spend their time off.
on a Saturday with perfect weather
Kayak the Kennebec and mind the current
when the gals come to town for the weekend
Catching live music at the Gin Mill
dude hangout
Disc golf at Quarry Road then argue over scores
rainy dreary day
Maine State Museum because your assured one surprise after the next
intellectually stimulating
Tour the State House and vigorously debate legislative minutiae
outdoorsy
Viles Arboretum trails where nature photographers gather for group shots
fitness oriented
Rail Trail biking until you realize that you've skipped leg day once too often
with your dog
Mill Park riverfront where there's plenty of scents to sniff
family oriented
Capitol Park playground while dodging oblivious Cell-Phone Guy on government business
you have to see this
Blaine House because some governors' portraits feature some serious lambchops
on a budget
Free State House tours with surprisingly passionate tour guide energy
for a nearby weekend getaway
Portland's an hour away for your big city dreams
My Favorite Local Spot in Augusta
I can't visit the state capital without a stop at State Lunch on Water Street. Order up the Beef Sando: House-roasted eye round, grilled sweet onions, mushrooms, cheddar cheese, and horseradish mayo. Add a side of Kung Pao Brussel Sprouts and top it off with a pint of Cushnoc Hard Tellin’. (Chef’s kiss).
— Greg Reid
Maine Local Expert
Ready to See If Augusta Fits You?
Compare cities, check the routes, or head back to the full Augusta guide for the bigger picture.