Augusta
This world-class capital city draws visitors each year to its history and natural beauty. Spanning both sides of the Kennebec River, the “Heart of Augusta” is a real crowd-pleaser where residents and visitors gather. With plenty to see and do, this city is a perfect addition to any group itinerary.
Blaine House
This historic 28-room house was completed in 1833 and was later the home of James G. Blaine. It was given to the state in 1919 to be used as the Governor’s mansion. Furnished with lovely pieces from days gone by, this mansion gives a taste of Maine’s political history throughout the years. Tours are available to groups at no fee, and are scheduled through the Maine State Museum.
Minimum Time Required: 1 hour
Maine State Museum
This wonderful museum, located on the same historic State Street as the Capitol, features exhibits on Maine’s natural environment, prehistory and material culture. Exhibits include “12,000 Years in Maine” and “Made in Maine”, as well as other galleries featuring agriculture, fishing, natural history, lumbering and so much more.
Minimum Time Required: 1 hour
State Capitol Building
Originally built in 1829 from a Charles Bulfinch design (notable Boston architect), the stature of the first State Capitol Building stood over the city of Augusta for over 100 years. In 1910 another Boston architect, C. Henri Desmond, enlarged the building to double its original size, and that’s how it stands today. A magnificent edifice, the State Capitol Building proves to be a group tour stop in its own right. Tours are scheduled by the Maine State Museum.
Minimum Time Required: 1 hour
Old Fort Western
This National Historic Landmark, built in 1754 for the French and Indian Wars, is the nation’s oldest surviving wooden fort. During these Wars, the Kennebec River was a frequently fought-over site, and Fort Western protected the strategic location. Today costumed museum teachers interpret 18th century military, settlement, trade and family life in the original main house and reconstructed fort compound.
Minimum Time Required: 1 hour
Pine Tree State Arboretum
224 acres featuring 300 different varieties of trees and shrubs, more than 5 miles of trails, various foliage and plants, and more. There are boardwalks over wetland displays, and a wonderful area called Governor’s Grove, where a white pine has been dedicated to each of Maine’s governors since 1820.
Minimum Time Required: 1 hour
