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. 37