The Kennebec Explorer 2014 Visitor's Guide to Maine's Kennebec Valley

Augusta: A capital experience awaits you. Area Attractions Maine State Museum 230 State St., Augusta Old Fort Western 16 Cony St., Augusta Viles Arboretum 153 Hospital St., Augusta Maine State House 210 State St., Augusta Governor’s Mansion — Blaine House 192 State St., Augusta Children’s Discovery Museum 171 Capitol St., Augusta Augusta Marketplace 197 Civic Center Dr., Augusta Bond Brook Park Winthrop St. via Mt. Hope Cemetery, Augusta Lithgow Public Library 45 Winthrop St., Augusta 36 Come shop, learn and play in Maine’s capital city. Clouds float across the smooth-as-glass surface of the majestic Kennebec River as it flows past the City of Augusta. This meandering river is a far cry from the Class IV rapids for which the Kennebec is known. While the waters here reflect the serenity of a summer’s day, just steps away on the broad avenues and side streets of the capital you’ll find history in the making, bustling commerce and the business of government under way. No visit to Augusta would be complete without touring the Capitol Complex, home to the Maine State Museum, Capitol Park and of course The State House (call ahead to secure a space on the tour). The governor resides at Blaine House, named after James G. Blaine — one of Maine’s most illustrious political leaders. The Maine State Museum is a cross-section of all that our state has to offer, beginning with it being home to a three-story water-powered factory mill that has been re-assembled inside. An excellent Maine Native American collection and The Lion, one of the nation’s oldest locomotives beautifully restored and on permanent display. Maine is known as the Pine Tree State. Every corner of our state is filled with the plentiful economic, environmental and recreational resource of the pine forest. The winds from the Atlantic Ocean are greatly softened by the time they reach Augusta’s Capitol Park, a lovingly tended public garden adjacent to the Maine State House and Museum. Also home to the Vietnam Memorial, the park boasts some of the best shade trees in the city. Bring a blanket and a picnic. Or maybe head over to the Farmers’ Market at Mill Park on Water Street (Tuesdays from May to October) to pick up a fresh local treat or takeaway lunch. Like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/TheKennebecExplorer

The Kennebec Explorer 2014 Visitor's Guide to Maine's Kennebec Valley | Page 38