The Kennebec Explorer 2014 Visitor's Guide to Maine's Kennebec Valley | Page 39
Vietnam Memorial, Angimarie Photography
Did you know?
The area that is now the location of Augusta was first
known to Native Americans as Cushnoc or “head of tide”
because it is the farthest point upstream where the
Kennebec River is affected by tidal fluctuations.
Old Fort Western, Augusta
Our Old Fort Western – 250 years strong
In 1754 a blockhouse was erected to provide for regional
protection, and it still stands today at Old Fort Western, on
the eastern bank at Cushnoc. True to Mainer form, the “fort”
has been used for many different purposes during it’s long life
including a civilian store, a private residence and a rooming house.
The fort also holds the dubious honor of being the mustering
point for Benedict Arnold’s failed march to Québec.
Downtown Augusta Lives
Across the Kennebec from Old Fort Western is a part of the
city that is quickly on the rise. Downtown Augusta has emerged
as a revitalized area with shops, restaurants, galleries and boutiques
all welcoming visitors. Downtown has many great spots for a quick
lunch while exploring the rest of the city or dinner at the end
of a fun day exploring Maine’s Capital City.
Getting out and Getting Active
Our region is crisscrossed with some of the most beautiful, green
and in some cases historic trails in the State, and Augusta is not
to be outdone. One quick visit to AugustaTrails.org shows the
variety offered here in Maine’s capital city. We love them all, but
here is a sampling to get you going: Across the river from the
Capitol Complex, with nearly 225 acres to explore, the Viles
Arboretum offers numerous exhibits including the very special
American Chestnut collection and the renowned Hosta Garden.
Bond Brook Park is the must visit place in Augusta for the
outdoorsy. In fact, many area residents are unaware of this great
park may soon become a world-class destination for fans of
cross-country skiing, mountain biking and hiking — all inside the
Augusta city limits. If you want to use this park, do some research,
get a map, park on Winthrop Street and enter through Mt. Hope
Cemetery. Then spread the news about this hidden gem.
No one likes a rainy day, except the trees, but when the
sun hides, Augusta shines. Discover the Children’s Discovery
Museum, catch a movie or enjoy some retail therapy at
the Augusta Marketplace — Maine’s largest outdoor
retail shopping area.
Whatever you do…
The Whatever Festival, held annually at the end of June and
start of July offers citizens lots of Whatever to do, especially on
the event’s Family Fun Day. There really is nothing quite like
this event anywhere else in Maine.
In addition to being the seat of government for Maine, there
is quite a bit more to Augusta than is expected. When you
visit, take some time to stroll through our museums, play in
our parks, shop, dine and play. Visit a downtown gallery or walk
through history. But most of all, meet some of our residents.
Once you do, you’ll learn why Augusta is a great place to
come back to again and again.
To learn more about Augusta, visit KennebecValley.org.
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